Little Engine is here to rev up rotisserie and wings. It’s led by Chef Rob Sonderman, who grew up a few blocks away and wanted to build the kind of place he’d actually want in his neighborhood. Rob has spent his career transforming familiar food into something more craveeable and fun. He helped build DCity Smokehouse and Federalist Pig into two of DC’s standout barbecue spots, then co-founded Honeymoon Chicken, where he focused on bringing bold flavors in a fast-casual setting. The through line has always been flavor-first cooking for real people without shortcuts.

At Little Engine, that approach lands on rotisserie birds and wings. We stick to solid roasting fundamentals, then push them with sauces and seasonings we make in-house like; Sticky Sichuan, Guava Glaze, Chipotle Ranch Dust and Thai Peanut. We’re right across from Eastern Market, run by a small crew focused on bringing big flavors to the neighborhood. Straightforward food, made with care, meant to be eaten often. Roll through for a healthy lunch or binge worthy dinner.

We hope to see you soon!

Craveable Classics. Bold Flavors.

A man with a beard and a black shirt leaning on a wooden post, standing outside a rustic restaurant or shop with the number 1654 above a small window. There is a neon sign in the shape of a pig and the word 'BBQ' glowing above. The man is smiling and wearing a black cap with red and white writing.