Washington DC is a vibrant city full of culture, history, and amazing places to eat. From traditional American cuisine to international flavors, you can find something to satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, the following list of places to eat in Washington DC will guarantee a delicious meal.
The Dabney is a must-visit destination for foodies and travelers looking to experience the best of the Mid-Atlantic region. The restaurant’s menu features a 6-course tasting menu that highlights seasonal ingredients from local farmers, watermen, and purveyors. The Dabney is proud to have built relationships with the people who grow their produce and provide their proteins and is dedicated to showcasing the quality and diversity of the ingredients and the wonderful people who raise, grow and produce them.
The restaurant’s centerpiece is an open kitchen with a wood-burning hearth that adds a unique depth of flavor to the dishes and pays homage to the area’s historic food culture. The Dabney’s goal is to reflect the soul of the beloved Mid-Atlantic region in every ingredient, with the emphasis on showcasing the best of the region. Although the restaurant is limited in its ability to modify its menu, especially for severe allium and dairy allergies as well as vegan and vegetarian diets, they offer an additional à la carte dinner menu at their bar and bar area tables, as well as a 3-course pre fixe menu on their High Top Tables. The Dabney is a unique dining experience that should not be missed.
Phone Number: (202) 240-2660
Address: 122 Blagden Alley NW, Washington, DC 20001
Rose’s Luxury is a highly sought-after dining destination in Washington D.C. that serves a unique blend of American and Asian cuisines. The restaurant, named after chef Aaron’s paternal grandmother, Rose, is open for dinner reservations Wednesday through Saturday, from 5:30 pm to 9:45 pm. Dining room reservations are available, and limited patio seating is also available for walk-ins on a first-come, first-served basis, weather permitting.
Rose’s Luxury prides itself on accommodating dietary restrictions and allergies. The menu denotes vegetarian dishes and the chefs will personally mark on menus to indicate dishes appropriate for dietary restrictions or allergies, so you can dine with them safely and happily. Rose’s Luxury also offers rentals for private events, perfect for celebrating special occasions. You can discuss options for large parties including private and semi-private spaces or a full buyout of the restaurant, depending on the size of your private party and government restrictions, there may be limitations in set up and style of service.
Phone Number: (202) 742-3570
Address: 717 8th St SE, Washington, DC 20003
Rasika is a world-class restaurant located in Washington D.C, showcasing Tawa (Griddle), Sigri (open Barbecue), Tandoori and regional curry dishes. The restaurant has an extensive temperature-controlled wine cellar and offers small plates, and a modern lounge. Rasika takes inspiration from an age-old approach to dining in which guests are encouraged to choose a variety of appetizers and entrees to share with their dining companions.
Rasika’s Executive Chef Vikram Sunderam was awarded the 2013 James Beard Award for Best Chef in the Mid-Atlantic Region. The restaurant respects the privacy and comfort of all dining patrons and practices a restricted entrance policy allowing children only above 8 years of age. The dress code is Smart Casual and No jacket is required, but gentlemen are requested to refrain from wearing shorts, sandals, sleeveless shirts, baseball caps and athletic wear and torn clothing are not permitted.
Phone Number: (202) 637-1222
Address: 633 D St NW, Washington, DC 20004
The Capital Grille is a restaurant that exudes elegance and sophistication. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be greeted by African mahogany paneling and Art Deco chandeliers that create a warm and stately atmosphere. This is the perfect setting to enjoy the restaurant’s nationally renowned dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, and acclaimed world-class wines. The service is as gracious as it is attentive, ensuring that you have an enjoyable dining experience.
At The Capital Grille, they take great pride in the quality of their ingredients. They use only the finest and freshest ingredients, masterfully prepared in recipes designed to engage all of your senses. Their steaks are a standout feature, dry aged on premises for 18-24 days to achieve incomparable flavor and texture. Each steak is then hand-carved by their in-house butchers to exacting standards. This intensive process may take longer, but it is most certainly worth it for the incredible taste and texture of the steaks.
Located in the heart of the nation’s capital, The Capital Grille is housed in a stately building with a stunning view down Pennsylvania Avenue to the Capitol Building itself. It’s the perfect spot for a special occasion or a night out with friends and family. Come and experience The Capital Grille and savor the exceptional flavors and impeccable service.
Phone Number:
Address: 601 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC
The Old Ebbitt Grill is Washington’s oldest saloon, founded in 1856 by innkeeper William E. Ebbitt. According to legend, Ebbitt bought a boarding house, which was likely located on the edge of present-day Chinatown. The restaurant’s guest list has read like a Who’s Who of American History, with famous figures such as Presidents and generals visiting the establishment over the years.
The Old Ebbitt Grill boasts a variety of unique and historic features, including the Main Bar and Main Dining Room which are separated by three carved glass panels depicting the Treasury, the Capitol, and the White House, done by Charles B. Shefts. The famous Oyster Bar features an array of exceptional oysters and winning wines from the annual Old Ebbitt Grill International Wines for Oysters Competition. The Corner Bar, located on the left of the foyer, is reminiscent of a downtown club with spirit of the Chesapeake Bay. The restaurant also features a private dining room downstairs, the Cabinet Room, which features six paintings of game birds by Australian-born Robin Hill. The Old Ebbitt Grill is also an excellent location for weddings, with an incredible panoramic vista from the Rooftop Terrace overlooking the East Wing of the White House and the National Cathedral.
Phone Number: (202) 347-4800
Address: 675 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20005
The Hamilton, located just steps from the White House, is the perfect destination for those looking for an eclectic and unique dining experience. The restaurant offers a diverse array of entertainment options including music and art, making it the ideal spot to gather with friends and celebrate. As part of Clyde’s Restaurant Group, The Hamilton is committed to using fresh and sustainable ingredients in their dishes. By opting for locally-raised and farm-grown produce, the restaurant is able to provide fresher ingredients for guests and support the local economy. Additionally,
The Hamilton proudly serves Bell & Evans chicken and Cedar River Farms® Natural Beef, which are free of hormones and antibiotics. The Hamilton’s location, just two blocks from the White House, and its commitment to defying conventions, like Alexander Hamilton himself, make it the perfect destination for those looking for a truly one-of-a-kind experience in the nation’s capital.
Phone Number: (202) 787-1000
Address: 600 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20005
Le Diplomate is a must-visit restaurant for anyone looking for a true taste of French cafe culture. Located in Washington, D.C.’s resurgent 14th Street corridor, this painstakingly restored historic structure is the perfect setting for a meal that will transport you to Europe. The interior and exterior pay subtle tribute to tradition, imbuing every meal with a sweeping sense of European drama.
The extensive menu features a variety of Gallic classics, including onion soup gratinée, steak frites and escargots, as well as daily plates such as bouillabaisse and cassoulet. A thoughtfully curated wine list and specialty cocktail program complete the transporting experience. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or a fun family outing, Le Diplomate has something for everyone. Don’t miss their upcoming family-friendly Bastille lunch on July 14th, which will feature live music, a face painter, balloon and caricature artists, special menu items, and much more!
Le Diplomate is the perfect place to experience the authentic flavors and culture of France, all in the heart of Washington, D.C. Book your table today and let Le Diplomate take you on a culinary journey!
Phone Number: (202) 332-3333
Address: 1601 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
Founding Farmers is an award-winning restaurant located just three blocks west of the White House in Washington D.C. It has been a destination for locals and tourists alike since it opened in 2008, it is open every day, serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch. The restaurant is majority owned by American family farmers and the menus feature American-inspired food and drink made from scratch with thoughtfully sourced ingredients from farmers they know and trust.
The restaurant is designed with a urban DC farmhouse style, guests can gather around the handcrafted community farm dining tables or enjoy more intimate seating arrangements, including their popular silo-shaped booths. The restaurant showcases original artwork, including a large flying Pegasus from artist Darla Jackson and a lamb mascot (who changes outfits with the seasons) by Noella Cotnam. The restaurant is LEED Gold Certified, which exemplifies their devotion to aesthetic beauty and sustainability. They are a 3 Star Certified Green Restaurant which helps them to operate with less environmental impact.
Founding Farmers is the most booked restaurant in the nation on OpenTable, it is a must-see for foodies visiting the city. They roast their coffee and espresso in-house using a state-of-the-art Bellwether Roaster, with zero emissions and using high-quality, traceable beans from independent farmers around the world. A visit to Founding Farmers is an experience that combines exceptional food, drink, and atmosphere, and is a must-visit for anyone looking for a truly unique dining experience in Washington D.C. We invite guests to make a reservation and come experience all that is Founding Farmers.
Phone Number: (202) 822-8783
Address: 1924 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20006
Busboys and Poets is a unique dining and cultural experience in the heart of Washington D.C. This popular restaurant and bookstore first opened its doors in the Mount Vernon Triangle in 2008 and quickly became a neighborhood staple. After 10 successful years, Busboys and Poets moved across the street to the sleek 450K building in September 2018. The new location features a larger bar and patio, perfect for enjoying a meal or drink with friends.
But Busboys and Poets is more than just a restaurant, it’s a community. The space is designed to uplift racial and cultural connections and serves as a place to take a deliberate pause and feed your mind, body, and soul. The restaurant also features two event spaces that are perfect for hosting art shows, cultural events, and political gatherings. The owners believe that by creating such a space they can inspire social change and begin to transform their community and the world. So whether you’re looking for a delicious meal, a new book to read, or an opportunity to connect with others, Busboys and Poets is the place to be.
Phone Number: (202) 789-2227
Address: 450 K ST NW, WASHINGTON, D.C. 20001
Ambar Capitol Hill – 450K is a one-of-a-kind restaurant that brings the rich, savory flavors of the Balkan Peninsula to Washington D.C. Known for delivering a true ‘Balkan Experience’, Ambar Capitol Hill – 450K has surpassed an epic milestone for Eastern European cuisine and catapulted it to the top of the international scene. The restaurant is the first of its kind to ever appear in the Michelin Guide.
The restaurant offers an Unlimited Dining Experience, where you can explore the rich, savory food of the Balkan Peninsula by trying a little bit of everything – all for one flat price. Unlimited Brunch, Unlimited Dinner and Unlimited Lunch. The restaurant also has a happy hour and upcoming events throughout the year. The atmosphere of the restaurant 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.
The restaurant also offers takeout and food delivery services. You can place your order online or by calling the restaurant right away. The outdoor and indoor areas are suitable for quiet private dinners, energetic gatherings, social lunches, and business meetings. Ambar Capitol Hill – 450K is the ideal venue for any occasion, thanks to its stunning interior design, delectable food and drink, and our well-versed staff. The restaurant’s mission is to present you and your guests with a culinary experience worthy of a top-notch restaurant, employing the finest seasonal, locally sourced, and responsibly farmed foods. They will do their best to accommodate your dietary preferences.
Phone Number: (202) 813-3039
Address: 523 8th St SE, Washington, DC 20003
