Discover the 15 Best Restaurants in Washington, DC

Welcome to Washington, D.C., the vibrant foodie destination of 2023!

Nestled in the heart of the nation’s capital is a culinary landscape that beckons locals and visitors alike.

In this bustling city, you’ll find a tapestry of flavors where diverse cuisines and dining experiences coexist harmoniously.

From the savory allure of chef-crafted brunches to the exquisite culinary journeys tucked near iconic landmarks, D.C. has something to satisfy every palate.

Whether you’re seeking an affordable bite or a Michelin-starred feast, our mission is clear: to guide you on a delectable adventure through the 15 best restaurants in Washington, D.C.

So, let’s embark on this gastronomic journey together and uncover the flavors that make the nation’s capital an unparalleled food haven in 2023.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the must-try cuisines in Washington, D.C.?

Washington, D.C., boasts a diverse culinary scene.

Don’t miss the opportunity to savor delectable cuisines such as French, Thai, Indian, and American classics. The city’s melting pot of flavors guarantees something for everyone.

Is Washington, D.C., a foodie town?

Absolutely! Washington, D.C., has firmly established itself as a burgeoning foodie paradise.

With an ever-evolving restaurant scene, Michelin-starred establishments, and a growing focus on local, sustainable ingredients, D.C. has become a top destination for food enthusiasts.

What sets the D.C. restaurant scene apart from other cities?

The District of Columbia restaurant scene is marked by its eclectic mix of cuisines, innovative chef-driven concepts, and proximity to iconic landmarks.

It’s where you can savor a gourmet meal steps away from Capitol Hill or enjoy street tacos in the vibrant neighborhoods.

Are these restaurants budget-friendly?

We’ve covered a range of dining options, including budget-friendly choices, in our “Cheap Eats in D.C.” section.

Whether you’re on a tight budget or looking for a lavish experience, there are restaurants to suit every wallet.

Can I find restaurants open for brunch in D.C.?

Absolutely! D.C. has a thriving brunch culture.

Many featured restaurants offer weekend brunch options, allowing you to indulge in delicious morning fare and creative cocktails.

How do I get to these restaurants from popular tourist attractions?

Most recommended restaurants are conveniently located near popular tourist landmarks.

We recommend using navigation apps or asking for directions from locals, who are usually more than happy to help you find your way to these culinary gems.

Brunch in D.C.

Brunch in D.C. has surged, becoming a beloved weekend tradition for locals and visitors alike.

Washingtonians have embraced the joy of leisurely mid-morning meals, and the city’s restaurants have risen to the occasion.

Notable Brunch Spots

Here are a few standout restaurants known for their brunch offerings in the nation’s capital:

1. Compass Rose

Location: 1346 T St NW, Washington, DC 20009 Phone: (202) 506-4765

What Makes It Special:

• Global Plates: Compass Rose offers a culinary journey with global flavors featuring dishes from various regions.
• Diverse Cocktails: Indulge in cocktails from Mexican to Middle Eastern, along with a selection of Mediterranean wines.
• Affordable Prix Fixe: The brunch menu includes an affordable prix fixe option with Georgian khachapuri, squash and egg, North African shakshuka, and delightful beignets.
• A La Carte Choices: Customize your brunch with a la carte options like Spanish patatas bravas and Irish spice bags.
• Covered Patio: Enjoy outdoor dining on the covered patio, designed like charming train cars.

2. Le Diplomate

Location: 1601 14th St NW, Washington, D.C. 20009 Phone: (202) 332-3333

What Makes It Special:

• French Brasserie: Stephen Starr’s brasserie offers a classic French brunch experience.
• Raw Bar: Explore the raw bar selections, including beef bourguignon and the popular “Burger Americain.”
• “Les Oeufs”: Don’t miss the seven egg dishes in the “Les Oeufs” section, such as poached eggs basquaise and lobster omelet.
• Variety: Le Diplomate offers diverse egg dishes and brunch classics that cater to different tastes.

3. Unconventional Diner

Location: 1207 9th St NW, Washington, DC 20001 Phone: (202) 847-0122

What Makes It Special:

• Michelin Star: Enjoy a Michelin-star modern diner filled with pop art near the Walter E. Washington Convention Center.
• Creative Brunch: Chef David Deshaies presents inventive brunch dishes like sweet potato shakshuka, avocado toast with confit egg yolk, and Caribbean-style shrimp and grits.
• Sibling Brunch: Try the brunch at L’Ardente, the restaurant’s “glam Italian” sibling, for a unique experience.

4. Barrel

Location: 613 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, Washington, DC 20003 Phone: (202) 543-3623

What Makes It Special:

• Southern Staple: Barrel on Capitol Hill offers a taste of the South with dishes like fried chicken and waffles.
• Unique Flavors: Explore dishes like carbonara with homemade tagliatelle, shrimp, and grits with Calabrian sausage and piquillo peppers.
• Refreshing Drinks: Pair your brunch bites with clarified milk punch cocktails, spicy bloody marys, and a bottomless bubbly deal.
• Extended Hours: Enjoy brunch from 11 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. on Saturday and until 9 p.m. on Sunday for the late brunch crowd.

5. Fiola Mare

Location: 3050 K St NW, Washington, D.C. 20007 Phone: (202) 628-0065

What Makes It Special:

• Georgetown Waterfront: Fiola Mare’s swanky Georgetown waterfront location offers a luxurious brunch experience.
• Classic and Seasonal: Enjoy classics like lemon ricotta pancakes, tagliatelle carbonara, and seasonal a la carte dishes.
• Three-Course Option: Opt for the baller three-course option, which includes appetizers, brunch favorites, dessert, pastries, and bottomless bubbly or cocktails.
• Elegant Setting: Brunch at Fiola Mare is a chance to see and be seen in a chic waterfront setting.

These brunch spots offer diverse brunch experiences, from global flavors to classic French cuisine and Southern-inspired dishes.

Each venue has unique charm and culinary delights for brunch enthusiasts to explore.

The Brunch Experience

The experience is about savoring good food and company at these brunch spots.

You’ll find diverse menus that cater to different tastes, whether you’re craving traditional brunch favorites or something with a bold, international flair.

With a relaxed ambiance and various brunch cocktails, these restaurants set the stage for delightful mid-morning gatherings.

Best Restaurants in Washington, D.C. 

Washington, D.C. is home to exquisite restaurants, each offering a unique culinary experience.

Let’s delve into the finest dining establishments recognized by the Michelin Guide.

1. Ambar Capitol Hill

• Location: 523 8th St SE, Washington DC, DC 20003-2835
• Phone: +1 202-813-3039

What Makes It Special:

• Balkan Experience: Ambar invites you to embark on a Balkan culinary adventure with delightful small plates.
• Rustic Ambiance: The two-story restaurant features rustic-country décor, making it an ideal choice for groups or solo diners.
• Chef’s Platter: Indulge in the chef’s platter, a tantalizing medley of dishes, including pita sa sirom, veal and beef kebabs, and sour cabbage stuffed with rice and pork belly.

2. Marcel’s by Robert Wiedmaier

• Location: 2401 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, 20037, USA

What Makes It Special:

• French-Inspired Cuisine: Marcel’s offers French-influenced meals enjoyed over multiple courses, showcasing dishes like pan-seared foie gras and grilled quail.
• Elegant Dining: The restaurant’s elegantly understated dining room is perfect for savoring French-inspired delicacies.
• Attentive Staff: The staff expertly balances attentive service with a genuine and welcoming atmosphere.

3. Rose’s Luxury

• Location: 717 8th St. SE, Washington, 20003, USA
• Michelin Rating: One Star 

What Makes It Special:

• Casual and Fun: Rose’s Luxury is all about laid-back dining with bare wood tables, an open kitchen, and a convivial mood.
• Shared Plates: The menu features ingenious shared plates, making it perfect for larger parties to sample a variety of dishes.
• Ingenious Cooking: Desserts like the traditional chocolate soufflé showcase the restaurant’s approachable yet ingenious cooking.

4. Kinship Restaurant

• Location: 1015 7th St. NW, Washington, 20001, USA
• Michelin Rating: One Star 

What Makes It Special:

• Inspired Cuisine: Kinship is known for its inspired cuisine by Chef Eric Ziebold, offering a range of bespoke tasting menu options.
• Elegant Space: The restaurant comprises a fireplace-warmed lounge, a lively bar, and a minimalist-chic dining room, providing an upscale ambiance.
• Memorable Desserts: Don’t miss the delightful desserts like the passion fruit tart with ginger-lime sorbet.

5. Fiola

• Location: 601 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, 20004, USA
• Michelin Rating: One Star 

What Makes It Special:

• Retro Glitz and Country Lodge: Fiola combines retro glitz with country lodge aesthetics, offering an intriguing dining atmosphere.
• Regional Italian Cuisine: Enjoy classic and modern elements in regional Italian cuisine, including dishes like 48-hour dry-aged branzino and caramel corn budino.
• Gracious Service: Gracious servers provide warm and welcoming service, enhancing the overall dining experience.

6. The Pembroke

• Location: 1500 New Hampshire Ave. NW, Washington, 20036, USA

What Makes It Special:

• Chic Parisian Ambiance: The Pembroke’s dining room exudes chic Parisian charm with marble tables, salmon-hued chairs, and tufted banquettes.
• Diverse Menu: The menu offers a melange of plates, from prawn cocktail to Mediterranean-inspired dishes like octopus fricassee and lamb tagine.
• Irresistible Desserts: Conclude your meal with the simple yet irresistible lemon tart.

7. L’Ardente

• Location: 200 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Washington, 20001, USA

What Makes It Special:

• 40-Layer Lasagna: L’Ardente is known for its famous 40-layer lasagna, a captivating dish featuring tender short rib, truffled mornay, and thin pasta sheets.
• Wood-Burning Grill: The restaurant’s wood-burning grill and pizza oven offer a range of delicious options, including charred cabbage with trout roe and more.
• Expansive Bar: Enjoy a glass of wine and snacks like saffron arancini or duck ravioli at the expansive bar.

These Michelin-starred restaurants in Washington, D.C. promise an unforgettable dining experience, where culinary innovation and exceptional service converge.

Whether you’re seeking French-inspired cuisine, shared plates with a casual flair, or elegant Italian classics, these dining destinations deliver impeccable quality.

Cheap Places to Eat in D.C.

While Washington, D.C. offers an array of upscale dining experiences, it’s equally important to savor the city’s budget-friendly culinary gems.

Affordable eateries allow you to enjoy delicious meals without breaking the bank and provide a taste of local flavors and culture.

Here are some wallet-friendly restaurants in Washington, D.C. that deliver on flavor without emptying your wallet:

1. Keren Restaurant

• Location: 1780 Florida Ave. NW, Washington, 20009, USA

Cuisine and Value for Money:

• Eritrean Cuisine: Keren Restaurant showcases the flavors of Eritrea, a nation with a culinary influence from Italy. While they serve breakfast all day, expect unique Eritrean breakfast staples like Ful, a fava bean dish with jalapeño, tomato, and onion.
• Value: With sizable portions and a loyal crowd, Keren offers great value for money. Don’t miss trying the “five Eritrean” items for a veg-focused combo that’s sure to satisfy.

2. Taqueria Habanero

• Location: 3710 14th St. NW, Washington, 20010, USA
• Michelin Rating: Bib Gourmand (Good quality, good value cooking)

Cuisine and Value for Money:

• Puebla-Inspired Mexican: Taqueria Habanero is known for its Puebla-inspired Mexican cuisine. Every item is made with attention to detail, from handcrafted tortillas to flavorful dishes like barbacoa tacos and mole poblano with tender chicken.
• Value: Despite a concise menu, every dish is prepared fresh and with care. The neighborhood favorite offers good quality and value, making it a go-to spot for Mexican food enthusiasts.

3. El Rinconcito Cafe

• Location: 1129 11th St NW between N L St & N M St, Washington DC, DC 20001-4354

Cuisine and Value for Money:

• Exceptional Salvadoran Food: El Rinconcito Cafe excels in Salvadoran cuisine, offering unique and tasty dishes. Highlights include empanadas de plantano, pupusas, tamales, and flavorful tacos.
• Value: This hidden gem provides excellent value for money, with food that satisfies even the most discerning palates. It’s a must-visit for those seeking authentic Salvadoran flavors.

These affordable dining options in Washington, D.C. allow you to explore diverse cuisines and savor delicious meals without straining your budget.

Whether you’re in the mood for Eritrean specialties, authentic Mexican dishes, or exceptional Salvadoran cuisine, these eateries offer an affordable and delectable culinary experience.

More Places to Eat in D.C.

If you’re still hungry for more dining adventures in the heart of the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., many culinary delights are waiting to be discovered.

Make the most of your visit by exploring these additional dining hotspots:

• Georgetown’s Culinary Gems: Georgetown’s charming streets offer an array of dining options, from crisp bistro fare to Michelin-starred extravagance. Don’t miss the chance to savor a margarita at Rasika, experience wood-fired wonders at Unconventional Diner, or indulge in tantalizing ceviche at L’Ardente.
• Penn Quarter Pleasures: The Penn Quarter district boasts an exciting restaurant scene. Le Diplomate, with its French-inspired dishes, is a must-visit. Explore helpful links on Yelp to find the perfect spot for any occasion, whether it’s a weekend brunch or a tasting menu experience.
• 14th Street and H Street Eateries: 14th Street and H Street are buzzing with culinary creativity. Discover fine-dining treasures, relish foie gras delights, and sample East and West Coast oysters. Experience the best of D.C.’s restaurant scene right here.
• Union Market Adventures: Union Market is a food lover’s paradise with an eclectic mix of cuisines. Try the empanadas, explore diverse options, and enjoy house-made dishes celebrating culinary diversity.
• Southwest Waterfront Delights: The Southwest Waterfront offers crudo and seafood imported from France. Savor the creations of Chef Katsuya Fukushima or enjoy a waterfront view while dining at a restaurant at the corner of culinary excellence.
• Row House Dining: Experience a unique dining adventure at a row house restaurant, where wood-fired ovens and creative menus await. Indulge in creamy crab dishes and tantalizing lobster risotto, all under one roof.
• Indian Cooking Extravaganza: Explore the world of Indian cuisine with an entire meal dedicated to its flavors. Visit a ramen shop for a bowl of comfort or savor Japanese cuisine like never before with exquisite ceviches and scampi.

In the U.S. capital, where the dining scene pays homage to diverse culinary traditions, your options are as varied as the nation.

Before you dine, don’t forget to explore reviews, agree to the terms of exceptional service, and savor every bite of your culinary journey through the vibrant Washington, D.C. dining scene.

Conclusion

In this article, we’ve unveiled the diverse dining scene of Washington, D.C. From Michelin-starred elegance to budget-friendly gems, the city offers something for everyone.

As you explore D.C., remember it’s not just the political capital but a culinary treasure trove. From brunch to late-night bites, the city’s restaurants promise unforgettable experiences.

So, whether you’re a foodie or an adventurer, D.C. invites you to savor its flavors.

Make reservations, gather friends, and embark on a gastronomic journey through the nation’s capital. This is the perfect time to explore D.C.’s dynamic restaurant scene and create delicious memories.