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The 30 Best Restaurants in Washington D.C

Washington D.C. has a wealth of history and tradition. The restaurants in this area are also quite a lot and boast to have hosted high profile guests ranging from politicians, ambassadors and other state dignitaries who visit Washington D.C. The restaurant scene here also shows the diversity and reflects the connection the state has with the rest of the world. You鈥檙e sure to find all kinds of cuisine from African to French to English and American.  Every region is well represented.

The best restaurants in Washington D.C range from fine dining to quick takeout to cater to the diversity of the population. If you鈥檙e a visitor and have had a long day of exploring, or you want to have a quick business lunch with a colleague or dinner with your friends, we have just the right recommendations for you. Here are the 30 best restaurants in Washington D.C.

1. Anju

Anju is a restaurant concept by The Fried Rice Collective founded by Chefs Danny Lee and Scott Drewno. Led by Executive Chef Angel Barreto and General Manager Eric Chodkowski, Anju serves an array of Korean cuisine in a modern home-style setting.

If you鈥檙e looking for classic Korean dishes like dolsot bi bim bap with bulgogi, Anju has that covered on the menu. Meanwhile, executive chef Angel Barreto has free reign to play around with everything from 30-day kimchi to jajangmyeon. Desserts are prime examples of Anju鈥檚 creativity.

Practical Information

Address: 1805 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009, United States

Call:  +1 202-845-8935

Open:  Mon – Thur 5 pm – 9 pm  Fri  5 – 10 pm Sat, Sun 11 am – 2 pm 5- 10 pm 

Reservations: ,

2. L鈥橝rdente 

L鈥橝rdente offers a timeless Italian culinary experience. Glittering chandeliers float below wooden farm beams. Wisps of fragrant smoke linger inside a gold-plated pizza oven. Sumptuous fabrics meet impeccable ingredients.

The restaurant reflects the glorious contrasts of Italy itself, haute yet simple; glam yet rustic; indulgent yet restrained. Above all, it鈥檚 the perfect destination in Washington DC, a Mediterranean balm in the heart of the capital. The showstopper here is the 40-layer lasagna, which is made with 40 exacting layers of short rib sugo and housemade pasta, with layers of mornay sauce and  sottocenere cheese and then dusted with a cloud of parmesan.

Practical Information

Address:  200 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001, United States

Open:  Mon – Fri 11:30 am – 2:30 pm  5 – 10 pm Sat 5 – 11 pm  Sun 5 – 10 pm

Reservations: 

3. Del Mar 

Del Mar is Fabio Trabocchi鈥檚 celebration of Spanish seafood cuisine on the waterfront of the Wharf. It was entirely designed in Spain, assembled by a team of Spanish artisans, to celebrate the craftsmanship and lifestyle. 

The menu offers a range of traditional and seasonal Tapas, Catalan-Style Charcoal Grilled Entrees, as well as the must-have Signature Paella. You get to enjoy the best of Spain wine list and their beautifully crafted cocktails in their multiple bars, indoor and outdoor.

Practical Information

Address: 791 Wharf St SW, Washington, DC 20024, United States

Call: +1 202-588-7272

Open:  Mon – 5 – 9:30 pm Tue – Wed 11:30 am – 9:30 pm Thur, Fri – 11:30 am – 10 pm 

            Sat 12 – 10 pm  Sun 12- 9:30 pm

Reservations: ,

4. Albi 

Albi; Arabic for my heart is the acclaimed debut restaurant from chef-owner Michael Rafidi. Opened in February 2020, Albi earned mentions on Best New Restaurant lists by Robb Report, Eater, and Esquire. Albi was named Eater DC’s Restaurant of the Year for 2021 and earned a Michelin star in 2022. 

Chef Rafidi takes inspiration from his family鈥檚 roots in the Levant region, bringing to the table the ancient tradition of the region鈥檚 coal-fired cuisine, local, seasonal ingredients, and refined culinary acumen. The heart of the restaurant is Albi’s wood-burning hearth, a semi-improvisational tasting menu and an intimate view of the open kitchen.

Practical Information

Address: 1346 4th St SE, Washington, DC 20003, United States

Open:  Tue – Sat 5 – 10 pm  Sun, Mon – Closed 

Reservations: 

5. Le Diplomate 

Le Diplomate pays sincere homage to French caf茅 culture, providing a comfortable, versatile gathering place that鈥檚 become an anchor for Washington, D.C.鈥檚 resurgent 14th Street corridor.

The extensive menu features a variety of Gallic classics, including onion soup gratin茅e, steak frites and escargots, as well as daily plates such as bouillabaisse and cassoulet. A thoughtfully curated wine list and speciality cocktail program to complete the transporting experience.

Practical Information

Address: 1601 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009, United States

Call:  +1 202-332-3333

Open:  Mon – Fri  12 – 3pm 5pm – 12am  Sat 9:30 am – 12am  Sun 9:30am – 11 pm

Reservations: ,

6. Tonari 

Tonari is the latest addition to the Daikaya Restaurant Group in Washington DC, specializing in Wafu Italian.

Tonari translates to thick, almost fluffy slices of pizza made with flour from Japan and topped with brick cheese and the likes of pickled wakame and clam, or layers of corn sauce, chives, and Kewpie mayo and mentaiko cream. 

Practical Information

Address: 707 6th St NW, Washington, DC 20001, United States

Call:  +1 202-289-8900

Open:  Mon – Closed Tue – Thur 5 -10 pm Fri – Sat 5 – 11 pm Sun 5 – 9 pm  

Reservations:

7. Masseria

Masseria is a celebration of big, harmonious flavours and the finest Italian cooking. It earned a Michelin star within Washington, DC鈥檚 first-ever guide. The restaurant鈥檚 name carries a heartfelt meaning, defining the charming agricultural farm of the Puglia region, which is heavily rooted in Stefanelli鈥檚 heritage. 

Taking the pretence out of fine dining and keeping it to just a whisper through its service. Entering into a courtyard with relaxed seating, Masseria, an exclusive restaurant for 60 guests, combines the raw and simple look of an Italian country estate, the industrial grit of the Union Market district, and the undeniable chic of its chef-owner.  You鈥檒l want to try as much of it as you can, which is why it’s recommended opting for a six- or eight-course tasting menu, both of which are offered nightly.

Practical Information

Address: 1340 4th St NE, Washington, DC 20002, United States

Call:  +1 202-289-8900

Open:  Tue – Fri 6 – 9:30 pm Sat 5 – 9:30 pm Sun-Mon – Closed 

Reservations: ,

8. The Dabney 

Chef Jeremiah Langhorne serves Mid-Atlantic cuisine at this rustic spot set in a former row house. The Dabney is proud to offer a menu that highlights seasonal ingredients from local farmers. The current menu is a 6-course tasting menu with additional wine pairings available. 

They developed the menu to reflect the soul of the mid-Atlantic, with every ingredient representing the history of the region we call home. For that reason, they are limited in the ability to modify their menu, especially for severe allium and dairy allergies as well as vegan and vegetarian diets. They offer an additional 脿 la carte dinner menu at the bar and bar area tables.

Practical Information

Address: 122 Blagden Alley NW, Washington, DC 20001, United States

Call:  +1 202-240-2660

Open:  Tue – Thur 5:30 – 9:30 pm Fri – Sat 5:30 – 10 pm Sun-Mon – Closed 

Reservations:

9. Dauphine鈥檚

Dauphine鈥檚 is located within Washington, D.C.鈥檚 Midtown Center, a new development at the site of the former The Washington Post building at 15th and L Streets NW. Chef Essig works closely with Long Shot Hospitality Chef Partner Kyle Bailey to utilize Mid-Atlantic ingredients to prepare classic Louisiana fare while also creating original dishes inspired by the city of New Orleans. 

At Dauphine鈥檚, guests can expect an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere, complete with subtle New Orleans influences that create a transportive experience.

Practical Information

Address: 1100 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20005, United States

Call:  +1 202-758-3785

Open:  Mon – Fri 11:30 am – 10 pm Sat 5 – 10 pm Sun 11 am – 9 pm 

Reservations: 

10. Seven Reasons

Seven Reasons has a simple but challenging mission: to take clients through a sensorial encounter, allowing them to discover their very own Seven Reasons of a magical culinary experience.

Their kitchen is inspired by the best Latin American culinary roots, brought to life through Enrique Limardo鈥檚 bold, contemporary approach. Enrique aims to transport clients through a route of exquisite flavors and textures, each presented in its own unique way.

Practical Information

Address: 2208 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009, United States

Call:  +1 202-417-8563

Open:  Mon – Thur 5:30 – 9:30 pm  Fri – Sat 5 – 10:30 pm Sun 5 pm – 9:30 pm 

Reservations:

11. Old Ebbitt Grill 

Old Ebbitt became Washington’s first known saloon. As the years passed, it moved to a number of new locations. Between the moves and its history, the Old Ebbitt has amassed a priceless collection of antiques and memorabilia. Along the way, the restaurant acquired beer steins, animal heads and wooden bears said to have been imported by Alexander Hamilton for his private bar. 

The restaurant is known for its seafood, particularly its oysters. Settle into a wood-panelled booth for a dozen freshly shucked bivalves, some crab cakes, and a crisp glass of wine. They also offer gluten-free items and can modify others upon request. Reservations are suggested.

Practical Information

Address:  675 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20005, United States

Call:  +1 202-347-4800

Open:  Mon – Fri 8am – 2am Sat – Sun 9 am – 2am  

Reservations:

12. Zaytinya by Jos茅 Andr茅s

Under the direction of celebrated Chef Jos茅 Andr茅s and his ThinkFoodGroup team, Zaytinya offers an innovative mezze menu inspired by Turkish, Greek and Lebanese cuisines served up in a sleek and modern setting. 

Building on Jos茅’s deep knowledge of Mediterranean cooking and years of research and travel, the menu features shared small plates of authentic and innovative fare, creative cocktails, and unique Mediterranean wines, making Zaytinya one of the most exciting restaurants in Washington D.C.

Practical Information

Address:  701 9th St NW, Washington, DC 20001, United States

Call:  +1 202-347-4800

Open:  Mon – 11:30 am – 10pm Tue – Thur 11:30 am – 11pm Fri 11:30 am – 12am 

            Sat 11am – 12am Sun 11 am – 10pm  

Reservations:

13. Central Michel Richard

Central celebrates Chef Michel Richard鈥檚 lively, jovial style of delicious food. Ideally situated at the corner of 11th & Pennsylvania Ave NW, and named for its 鈥渃entral鈥� downtown location, Central is just steps away from the National Mall, Smithsonian Museums, Capital One Arena, galleries, and downtown theatres. 

After winning international acclaim for his flagship fine dining restaurant Citronelle in Washington, DC鈥檚 Georgetown neighborhood, Michel turned his creativity to the 鈥渄emocratization of gastronomy,鈥� creating a restaurant that is welcoming and accessible, at a price that makes you invite more friends. The menu showcases shareable starters for the table, sumptuous appetizers, unique entrees, and delectable desserts.

Practical Information

Address: 1001 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004, United States

Call:  +1 202-626-0015

Open:  Mon-Sat 11:30 am – 8:30 pm Sun Closed 

Reservations:

14. Ambar Capitol Hill 

The first of its kind to ever appear in the Michelin Guide, Ambar D.C. is known for delivering a true 鈥楤alkan Experience鈥� and has surpassed an epic milestone for Eastern European cuisine, catapulting it to the top of the international scene. 

Ambar blends tradition and heritage with creativity and modern design. The result is an unforgettable visitor experience that reaches all the senses with delicious food, unbelievable drinks and an atmosphere that blends comfort and high style. Every detail is meticulously woven into a unique experience that will leave you breathless.

Practical Information

Address: 523 8th St SE, Washington, DC 20003, United States

Call:  +1 202-626-0015

Open:  Mon-Fri 12 – 3 pm 4-10 pm Sat 10 am – 3:30 pm 4:30 pm – 11 pm 

            Sun 10 am – 3:30 pm 4:30 – 10 pm 

Reservations:

15. The Salt Line 

The Salt Line has a spacious patio and interior mix of weathered wood and tile bringing a seaside vibe to the banks of the Anacostia River, making it a hot spot for Washington D.C. residents on warm days and game days alike.

At the Salt Line, Oysters, where fresh and salt water come together. They鈥檙e taking inspiration from the magical blend and creating a lively and welcoming experience of classic New England dishes influenced by the bounty of the Chesapeake.

Practical Information

Address: 79 Potomac Ave SE, Washington, DC 20003, United States

Call:  +1 202-506-2368

Open:  Mon-Thur 4 – 10 pm Fri 12 – 11 pm Sat 11am – 11pm Sun 11am – 10pm 

Reservations:

16. Letena Ethiopian Restaurant

Located in the heart of Columbia Heights, Washington, DC, Letena is the spot for authentic and inspired Ethiopian cuisine, great coffee, and home-crafted drinks. With oversized windows, high ceilings, a modern open kitchen design, and walls adorned by an impressive collection of traditional Ethiopian artefacts and paintings, the interior combines the feel of an art gallery with an intimate and cozy dining space.

Health and culture are at the root of Letena which means 鈥渇or health鈥� in Amharic, so to live up to the brand鈥檚 name, only natural and premium ingredients are used throughout its offerings. With special attention given to quality ingredients, vegetarians, vegans, meat lovers and adventurous diners alike are offered authentic Ethiopian and inspired original dishes.

Practical Information

Address: 3100 14th St NW #121, Washington, DC 20010, United States

Call:  +1 202-733-4830

Open:  Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat 5 – 9:30pm  Thur, Sun 5 – 9 pm Mon Closed

Reservations: 

17. Daikaya

Daikaya Ramen offers Sapporo-style ramen, which is widely considered one of Japan鈥檚 most prominent and influential ramen styles. Sapporo-style ramen is distinguished by its Chintan stock; a clear soup base that requires over 16 hours of careful preparation to achieve its delicate and complex depth. The stock contains chicken, pork, and beef. 

Their menu also features noodles which are imported from Sapporo, Japan, and made by Nishiyama Seimen Company according to the recipe they developed. It鈥檚 highly recommended to sip the broth, slurp the noodles, and then dig into the roasted vegetables and broth-soaked meats. After three bowls, it becomes an addiction.

Practical Information

Address: 705 6th St NW, Washington, DC 20001, United States

Call:  +1 202-589-1600

Open:  Mon 11:30 am – 9 pm Tue – Thur, Sun 11:30 am – 10 pm Fri, Sat 11:30 am – 11 pm 

18. Alta Strada

Alta Strada was born from the simple wish to share great ingredients, honored flavors, and a warm welcome with neighbors and friends. Always expect housemade pasta, authentic Italian classics, great reds, and cocktails too, all enjoyed in their dining rooms.

An open kitchen provides a view of pizza orders going into the gas-fired oven for those dining indoors.  The Chianti-colored booths and warm, olive green walls also make it intimate enough for diners looking to celebrate a special occasion or indulge in date night. 

Practical Information

Address: 465 K St NW, Washington, DC 20001, United States

Call:  +1 202-629-4662

Open: Sun – Thur 5pm – 9pm  Fri – Sat 5 – 10pm 

Reservations:

19. Medium Rare

Medium Rare is one of the best Steak and Fries restaurants in Washington DC served in a fun, relaxed, neighborhood bistro in Cleveland Park.  

Inspired by the experiences that owners Mark Bucher and Tom Greg had in France, the aim was to create an accessible restaurant that served great food at a reasonable price point. In addition to indoor dining, Medium Rare also offers outdoor sidewalk seating.

Practical Information

Address: 3500 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008, United States

Call:  +1 202-629-4662

Open: Mon – Thur 5 – 10 pm Fri – 5 – 11 pm Sat 10:30 am – 11 pm Sun 10:30 am – 10 pm

Reservations:

20. The Prime Rib

The Prime Rib was founded by brothers Buzz and Nick BeLer in Baltimore in 1965  and is proudly a family-owned business. The restaurant was born from their love of 1940s Hollywood style, legendary food, devoted service and timeless sophistication 

The restaurant鈥檚 exacting standards apply to ingredients, the beef is USDA prime, sourced from a single farm in Kansas, and the caviar is Armenia鈥檚 finest. Start with an ice cold martini, The Prime Rib鈥檚 famous potato skin basket, and as the restaurant鈥檚 after-dinner drink menu indicates settle in for a delightfully indulgent, leisurely meal. 

Practical Information

Address: 2020 K St NW, Washington, DC 20006, United States

Call:  +1 202-466-8811

Open: Mon – Thur 5 – 10 pm Fri – Sat 5 -10:30 pm Sun Closed

Reservations:

21. Georgia Brown’s

Georgia Brown’s warmly opened its doors in 1993. Part of the visual appeal of the restaurant lends itself to the bronzed ceiling scroll, reminiscent of the grand oak trees that are outstretched like a lace border over Southern Streets. 

At Georgia Brown鈥檚, you鈥檒l get to experience southern hospitality at its finest. Low country cuisine at its best. Seafood at the height of freshness and dishes with flavours pulled from regional culture and history. They also offer special menus  which are available from which you can select, or should you prefer, their Chef will work with you to create a Chef鈥檚 Menu for you and your guests. 

Practical Information

Address: 950 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20005, United States

Call:  +1 202-393-4499

Open: Mon – Fri 11:30 am – 10 pm  Sat 11:30 am -11 pm Sun 10 am – 3:30 pm

Reservations:

22. Founding Farmers

Founding Farmers DC is located just three blocks west of the White House and honors the great American land and the farmers who work it. The restaurant is majority owned by family farmers, and almost all of their food and drink is made from scratch in the restaurant primarily using sources they know and trust, including their craft cocktails.

The Founding Farmers DC restaurant showcases original artwork, including a large flying Pegasus from artist Darla Jackson and the lamb mascot who changes outfits with the seasons by Noella Cotnam. Make sure to make reservations.

Practical Information

Address:  1924 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20006, United States

Call:  +1 202-822-8783

Open: Mon – Fri 7 am – 10 pm  Sat 9 am -11 pm Sun 9 am – 9 pm

Reservations:  ,

23. 1789 Restaurant

Named for the year Georgetown University was founded, 1789 Restaurant is the quintessential Washington, D.C. dining experience. Its antique-filled dining rooms offer comfortable surroundings in a renovated Federal house. 

The contemporary seasonal menu blends the flavours of fresh regional ingredients into unique and delicious dishes. The restaurant was chosen as one of the 20 best restaurants in D.C. by Cond茅 Nast Traveler. 

Practical Information

Address: 1226 36th St NW, Washington, DC 20007, United States

Call:  +1 202-965-1789

Open: Mon-Sun 5:30  – 9 pm

Reservations:  ,

24. Bombay Club

Bombay Club, located one block from the White House, has been an iconic institution since its creation in 1988. Enjoy dining and the soothing atmosphere set by the sound of live piano music on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

The Bombay Club鈥檚 classic cuisine is based on a complete Indian culinary experience reflecting the country鈥檚 regional tastes, style, and nuances, using the best ingredients.

Practical Information

Address: 815 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20006, United States

Call:  +1 202-659-3727

Open: Mon- Fri 11:30 am – 2:30 pm 5 – 9:30 pm Sat – 5 pm – 10 pm  Sun – Closed

Reservations:

25. MI VIDA 

A Mexico City native, author and acclaimed Chef-Owner of New York City鈥檚 FONDA restaurants, Roberto Santiba帽ez has served as an ambassador of Mexican cuisine for over three decades. MI VIDA is the evolution of the Chef鈥檚 culinary journey as he continues to explore his beloved Mexico.

The restaurant gives diners the option to add blue cheese, grapes, or smoked almonds. For one of the district鈥檚 best seafood dishes, order the Pescado a la talla, a butterflied hearth-roasted branzino that鈥檚 covered on one half with red adobo, and on the other with green adobo, creating a photogenic and delicious plate.

Practical Information

Address: 98 District Square SW, Washington, DC 20024, United States

Call: +1 202-516-4656

Open: Mon- Fri 11:30 am – 11 pm Sat 11 am – 11 pm Sun 11 am – 10 pm

Reservations:

26. Las Placitas 

In 1990 Las Placitas Restaurant was opened in Washington DC, establishing a unique style of Mexican Cuisine on Capitol Hill.

Along with the classic Salvadoran dish of pupusas, diners at this cozy family-owned restaurant can also find impeccably caramelized plates of fried plantains and creamy bowls of seafood soup. Not to mention the soft tacos, burritos, and enchiladas. Wash down your order with a refreshing pitcher of margaritas. 

Practical Information

Address: 1100 8th St SE, Washington, DC 20003, United States

Call: +1 202-543-3700

Open: Mon-Sun 11 am – 10 pm

27. Florida Avenue Grill 

Florida Avenue Grill is known as the world鈥檚 oldest continuously run soul food restaurant. Originally founded by Lacey C. Wilson and Bertha Wilson in 1944, this iconic Washington, D.C. institution affectionately nicknamed The Grill serves up some of the city鈥檚 best soul food. 

Highly recommended on their menu is the fish and grits breakfast that鈥檚 served all day and comes with eggs of your choice, grits, and a choice of fried catfish or salmon cakes. The Grill鈥檚 famed corn muffins are not to be missed, they鈥檙e crisp on the outside and pillow soft on the inside. 

Practical Information

Address: 1100 Florida Ave NW, Washington, DC 20009, United States

Call: +1 202-265-1586

Open: Fri – Sat 9 am – 2 pm  Mon – Thur Closed

28. Izakaya Seki

Izakaya Seki is a neighborhood Japanese restaurant serving small, shareable dishes and a wide selection of sake and natural wine. 

The chef鈥檚 rotating sashimi selection is explosively rich, and the seasonal miso soup served with assorted roasted mushrooms is not to be missed. From the main menu, order the slow-grilled octopus. The salmon roe hand roll with its barely warm rice and fresh roe will put you in a state of nirvana.

Practical Information

Address: 1117 V St NW, Washington, DC 20009, United States

Call: +1 202-265-1586

Open: Tue – Sun 5 – 9 pm  Mon Closed

Reservations:

29. The Red Hen

The Red Hen is an acclaimed Italian-influenced and seasonally-inspired American restaurant in D.C.’s historic Bloomingdale neighborhood located just one mile from downtown and the National Mall.

The Red Hen serves up satisfying pasta, innovative new dishes, and classic comfort food utilizing a combination of local ingredients and the best-imported products and wines from around the world.

Practical Information

Address: 1822 1st St NW, Washington, DC 20001, United States

Call: +1 202-265-1586

Open: Mon – Fri 5:30 pm – 10 pm Sat-Sun 5 – 10 pm 

Reservations:

30. Pearl Dive Oyster Palace

Pearl Dive Oyster Palace has been a part of the Washington DC community for the past nine years. They have always taken great pride in being a place for the community to gather to share a good meal and make connections. 

Pearl Dive offers a variety of both East and West coast oysters. The menu also offers corn muffins that accompany the complimentary bread basket which are perfect for soaking up the belly-warming seafood gumbo, which is loaded with oysters, Louisiana shrimp, local crab, Tasso ham and okra. Reservations are recommended.

Practical Information

Address: 1612 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009, United States

Call: +1 202-319-1612

Open: Mon, Wed, Thur 4 pm – 10 pm Fri, Sat- 11 am – 11 pm Sun 11 am – 10 pm 

          Tue Closed

Reservations: