The 39 Best Washington, D.C. Restaurants in 2024

Looking for some of the best D.C. restaurants? The region is host to an amazing number of local eateries, all with their own unique flavors and dining experiences. Seafood, harvested from the Atlantic coast, is just one popular ingredient you can look forward to; and combined with others such as local produce and farm-fresh dairy, you'll soon realize why D.C. restaurants are a treat for the senses.

Whether you are looking for a D.C. restaurant for your next romantic date night, an upbeat celebration or a quiet dinner for one, we’ve rounded up 39 favorites that regularly appear on best-of lists for Washington D.C. and its environs. They comprise a variety of international and global fusion cuisines, all-American BBQ and classic steakhouse dining. All are perfect for sampling what the city has to offer. 

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• 39 Best Restaurants in D.C.
• Try Cooking D.C. Foods

39 Best Restaurants in D.C.

1. Compass Rose

This favorite among D.C. restaurants serves up a host of Middle Eastern and global fusion fare in a colorful and boho-style environment. 

The Vibe

Draped in colorful wall hangings and vibrant murals, the eclectically styled Compass Rose feels both romantic and laid back. This, together with its many other enjoyable attributes, makes it a perfect spot for one of many date ideas in D.C.

What to Order

Innovative fusion highlights on the menu include pescaditos fritos and duck heart anticuchos, as well as more traditional Middle Eastern fare like lamb curry and Tunisian chicken.

Compass Rose | 1346 T St. NW., Washington, DC 20009 | $$$

2. Le Diplomate

Steeped in French culture and tradition, this Logan Circle eatery is one of the best D.C. restaurants for European classic fare at affordable prices. 

The Vibe

The feel at Le Diplomate is casual, but French-inspired, lined with francophile touches like Tour de France memorabilia, brasserie tables and a large bar. There is also a patio they enclose completely during colder weather. 

What to Order

Try French classics like steak frites, onion soup gratin, beef bourguignon and foie gras parfait. They also have an extensive list of French wines at this magnifique D.C. restaurant.  

Le Diplomate | 1601 14th St. NW., Washington, DC 20009 | $$

3. St. James

Named after a neighborhood in Trinidad’s Port of Spain, St. James is one of the best Washington D.C. restaurants to try if you want innovative takes on West African dishes and Caribbean cuisine. 

The Vibe

The interior of St. James is Art Deco meets industrial, with crisp black and green accents lit by sculptural chandeliers and sconces. A large bar serves up rum-based signature cocktails, making this a perfect D.C. restaurant for an evening of celebration.

What to Order

Order the Trini-style steamed buns with spicy pork and crab, or the jerk wings. Follow this up with a wide selection of entrées boasting delicious seafood at the center, including a grilled red snapper and crab, and dumplings. 

St. James | 2017 14th St. NW., Washington, DC 20009 | $$$

4. Pennyroyal Station

Located in Mount Rainier, this chic eatery has only been open a few years but is the go-to spot among D.C. restaurants for Southern-style comfort food.

The Vibe

Bright and airy with an industrial feel, the stylish Pennyroyal Station is located in a former bank and sewing factory. There's no doubting the delicious food, but what adds to the allure is that it gets attractively plated on a selection of vintage mix-matched china. If you're a fan of warm and cozy restaurants, this is definitely the spot to spend a winter evening.  

What to Order

Comfort food favorites abound, including a smoky brisket and classic fried chicken. Equally famous for their burgers and fries, they also have a popular weekend brunch.

Penny Royal Station | 3310 Rhode Island Ave., Mount Rainier, MD 20712 | $$

5. Rooster & Owl

This global fusion establishment is one of the most expensive restaurants in D.C. and an excellent spot for dishes that feature an intriguing blend of many cultures and cuisines.

The Vibe

The space of Rooster & Owl reads very elevated modern and industrial chic, but is personalized with touches like local art, books and cozy décor items.

What to Order

Try the dishes that blend multiple cooking styles and flavors, like a foie gras-filled banh mi or the cacio-e-elote made with charred corn and queso fresco. For dessert, try their panna cotta or chess pie.

Rooster & Owl | 2436 14th St. NW., Washington, DC 20009 | $$$$

6. Bresca

This New American and French eatery is one of the best among Washington D.C. restaurants for a daring chef-driven prix fixe menu.

The Vibe

Modern and chic, the interior of Bresca sports bold yellow accents amid a palette of dark gray and black, including luxe black velvet seats and banquettes surrounded by whimsical artwork. The overall feel of this D.C. restaurant is luxe, but playful.

What to Order

The chef-chosen menu varies from evening to evening but includes a tasting menu driven by classic French cuisine, including duck breast, short ribs and lamb shoulder, with small plates like Black Forest foie gras and Nantucket scallop crudo.

Bresca | 1906 14th St. NW., Washington, DC 20009 | $$$$

7. Oyster Oyster

Named after the mushroom variety and not the seafood, this plant-based eatery is a D.C. restaurant perfect for herbivores, serving up sustainably sourced and local produce for the elevated palate.

The Vibe

Fresh, contemporary and filled with funky art, Oyster Oyster is a great place if you are looking for a gourmet experience without all the meat dishes. This restaurant with private rooms in Washington, D.C. is largely defined by its hip, spirited energy, making it the ideal place for lively bunches to host exclusive parties. 

What to Order

Start with a bowl of koji or winter squash confit followed by the eggplant schnitzel or mushroom ragout.

Oyster Oyster | 1440 Eighth St. NW., Washington, DC 20001 | $$$

8. Grazie Nonna

By its name, which translates to “Thank you, Grandma,” you can likely surmise that classic Italian dishes like those made by a loving Italian Nonna can be found at this gem among Washington D.C. restaurants.

The Vibe

Old meets new at Grazie Nonna, which is lined with glittering chandeliers and gilt frames hung above sleek and modern industrial-chic seating.

What to Order

If you aren't trying the signature Sunday Sauce Pasta at this D.C. restaurant, then opt for one of the many cleverly-named pizzas like the Drunken Love, Green Goddess or Sweet Tooth.

Grazie Nonna | 1100 15th St. NW., Washington, DC 20005 | $$$

9. Estuary

Located in the Conrad Hotel, this luxe spot for seafood is one of the best Washington D.C. restaurants for nearby Chesapeake Bay fishing yields.

The Vibe

While the interior of Estuary is sleekly mid-century modern and minimalist, the menu is filled with bay-area options that evoke the seaside.

What to Order

Try the Maryland Crab Roll or the Chatham Cod for a distinctive Atlantic seafood experience, or perhaps give their non-seafood options like Chicken Fried Quail or Avocado Confit a try.  

Estuary | 950 New York Ave. NW., Washington, DC 20001 | $$$$

10. Cinco Soles

Recently pivoted from the popular Italian restaurant OssoBucco, this Mexican eatery is a new favorite among Washington D.C. restaurants for its creative tequila-based cocktail menu and house-made tortillas. 

The Vibe

The interior of Cinco Soles is awash in blues and greens, with tiled murals of sea life and plenty of greenery on the walls.

What to Order

You're spoilt for choice at this D.C. restaurant when it comes to Mexican classics, so try the pastor tacos, mahi mahi tostadas or one of their fresh ceviches.

Cinco Soles | 3418 11th St. NW., Washington, DC 20010 | $$

11. Opal 

This Chevy Chase eatery is devoted to coastal cuisine cooked over a wood-fired oven, making it perfect among D.C. restaurants for finding local favorites like Maryland crab and local produce. 

The Vibe

Trendy and modern, the light-filled dining room of Opal is studded with rustic handmade pottery for an excellent feeling of old meets new amid a casual, yet elevated vibe.

What to Order

Order the ricotta dumplings with brown butter, the mushroom risotto or the pan-seared scallops, washed down with a smoked Sazerac from the large circular bar.  

Opal | 5534 Connecticut Ave. NW., Washington, DC 20015 | $$$

12. L’Avant-Garde

Inspired by Parisian nightlife, this brasserie-style restaurant opened adjacent to Georgetown’s popular nightlife spot, L’Annexe, making it a great date night locale among D.C. restaurants.

The Vibe

Dramatic and feather-laden with chic black walls, L’Avant-Garde is a nod to French luxuriousness and flavors.

What to Order

Begin with the sea scallops or foie gras beignet, followed by the black truffle risotto or the chateaubriand. Decadent desserts at this D.C. restaurant include the grand cru chocolate millefeuille and raspberry macarons.

L’Avant-Garde | 2915 M St. NW., Washington, DC 20007 | $$$

13. Imperfecto

This West End favorite is known among D.C restaurants for its surreal plating and innovative Mediterranean-Latin fusion dishes. 

The Vibe

The bright white and soaring interior of Imperfecto provides a dramatic dining experience filled with curves and geometric accents in soothing neutrals, amid dynamic art and sculptural lighting.

What to Order

You can order a la carte or try the omakase tasting experience at the Michelin-starred chef’s counter, which includes dishes like Amazonian chimichurri, lamb terrine and moussaka cigars.

Imperfecto | 1124 23rd St. NW., Washington, DC 20037 | $$$$

14. Baan Siam

This Mount Vernon Triangle destination for Thai food is one of the best D.C. restaurants for ultra-hot curries.

The Vibe

Trendy and modern, Baan Siam features a stylish oceanic blue bar and stained glass accents, resulting in a chic, tropical feel.

What to Order

Favorites include the red or green curries, crispy pork belly and the pineapple chicken. Make sure to also try the coconut milk griddle cakes.

Baan Siam | 425 I St. NW., Washington, DC 20001 | $$

15. Caruso’s Grocery

This affordable Italian eatery is a local favorite among D.C. restaurants for classic red sauce and nostalgia. 

The Vibe

The old-world feel dining room at Caruso’s Grocery evokes classic Italian joints of the last century, complete with photos from the past and red banquettes lining the walls.

What to Order

Try their spicy Neapolitan ragu, baked cavatelli or classic chicken parmigiana alongside a Caesar salad and cannoli for dessert. 

Caruso’s Grocery | 914 14th St. SE., Washington, DC 20003 | $$

16. Mama Chang

Located in nearby Fairfax, this delightful spot specializes in “home-style” Chinese fare, blending Sichuan and Hunan techniques and flavors.

The Vibe

The bright and contemporary dining room of Mama Chang is filled with bamboo accents and lots of texture and greenery. 

What to Order

Classic Chinese flavors abound with dishes like Peking duck, shrimp dumplings and spicy sesame noodles. They also have dim sum menus available for lunch and dinner.

Mama Chang | 3251 Blenheim Blvd., Fairfax, VA 22030 | $$

17. Brothers Bistro

A favorite among D.C. restaurants for Vietnamese fare, this low-profile spot in Springfield tucked within a mall surprises continually with solid takes on classics like pho and crab fried rice. 

The Vibe

The casual dining room of Brothers Bistro is decorated in soothing greens, bamboo accents and brick, making it a perfect eatery for laid-back long lunches. 

What to Order

Start with their spring rolls followed by a bowl of the Pho Brothers Dac Biet, Bun Mam Kien Giang or Lau Thai with seafood, beef and tofu. 

Brothers Bistro | 6306 Springfield Plaza, Springfield, VA 22150 | $$

18. SER

This Spanish favorite has been making waves for a decade among Washington restaurants in the Ballston neighborhood. 

The Vibe

The whimsical dining room at SER features colorful seating, old photos and chalkboard menus, making it a fun stop for casual but exquisite Spanish tapas.

What to Order

Tapas offerings include croquetas, tomato bread and deep-fried eggplants, but you can also order entrées for two such as the vegetable paella and roast suckling pig. 

SER | 1110 N. Glebe Road, Arlington, VA 22201 | $$

19. Hedzole 

Once a roving West African pop-up, this gem among D.C. restaurants gained its fame at local farmers’ markets before opening a permanent home on the Northwest side.

The Vibe

The interior of Hedzole is small but stylish, offering a chance to dine in-house or carry out, with a large open patio in warmer weather. 

What to Order

The stewed oxtail made Hedzole famous as a pop-up, so it's a must-try, along with coconut or jollof rice.

Hedzole | 5505 Colorado Ave. NW., Washington, DC 20011 | $$

20. Makan

Located in Columbia Heights, this Malaysian eatery is the perfect D.C. restaurant for sampling the spicy-sweet and umami flavors mastered expertly.

The Vibe

Large floral murals and a cozy feel dominate the dining space of Makan, accented with leather and rattan seats, and decorative tiles.

What to Order

Try a tropical cocktail at the bar with some chicken sate before enjoying an order of Curry Mee or Beef Rendang.

Makan | 3400 11th St. NW., Washington, DC 20010 | $$$

21. J. Hollinger’s Waterman’s Chophouse

A chophouse and raw bar, this Sinatra-inspired D.C. restaurant is classic Americana with a global-infused menu of offerings.

The Vibe

Unassumingly conventional and contemporary, J. Hollinger's Waterman’s Chophouse is a large space with a luxe feel made cozy by a fireplace, loud dynamic artwork and occasional live performances. 

What to Order

Try the classic crab cakes or fried oysters followed by the steak frites, cider-brined pork chops or fried chicken. They are also famous for their $1 oyster happy hours and Sunday brunch buffet.

J. Hollinger’s Waterman’s Chophouse | 8606 Colesville Road, Silver Spring, MD 20910 | $$$

22. Melina

One of the many Greek eateries among D.C. restaurants, Melina stands out because of its signature modern take on classic Greek cuisine. 

The Vibe

Melina’s large and contemporary space is modern, yet still showcasing Greek accents like a Mediterranean blue ceiling, statuary and an abundance of arches. 

What to Order

Try the shrimp cavatelli saganaki or the lamb bolognese chicken, followed by bougatsa — a custard pie with chocolate drizzle.

Melina | 905 Rose Ave., North Bethesda, MD 20852 | $$$ 

23. Lutèce

A popular spot for “neo-bistro” cuisine, this reboot of Georgetown’s popular Cafe Bonaparte has made waves among D.C. restaurants for its seasonally rotating menu.

The Vibe

Brick-lined and intimate, Lutèce has a chic bistro feel magnified by details like a stylish blue bar and toile-wallpapered restrooms. 

What to Order

Favorites at this D.C. restaurant include the Parisian gnocchi, steak tartare or the duck confit tacos. Finish off the meal with honey semifreddo or pomme paillasson.

Lutèce | 1522 Wisconsin Ave., Washington, DC 20007 | $$$

24. St Anselm

Recently relocated from Brooklyn, this modern take on a classic steakhouse is one of the best D.C. restaurants to find plates where both meat and vegetables shine.

The Vibe

St. Anselm is an industrial space filled with intriguing conversation pieces and items to look at, including deer trophies, antiques and beautiful rugs.

What to Order

The buttery salmon collar has a cult following, with the steaks being a close second, including a mammoth 16 oz prime ribeye. 

St Anselm | 1250 5th St. NE., Washington, DC 20002 | $$$

25. Causa/Amazonia

Part luxe prix fixe menu and part casual eatery, this D.C. restaurant is known for South American fare with an emphasis on the Peruvian coastline. 

The Vibe

The lively and colorful upstairs bar of Amazonia gives way to a downstairs quieter and more luxurious chef-chosen menu of Causa.

What to Order

The six-course prix fixe menu for $125 offers a Peruvian coastal eating experience, while the Amazonia upstairs offers a la carte seafood, pork and steak dishes.

Causa/Amazonia | 920 Blagden Alley NW., Washington, DC 20001 | $$$$

26. Piccolina da Centrolina

Located in CityCenter as a companion to the more luxurious nearby Centrolino, this Italian café amongst D.C. restaurants offers wood-fired vegetables, pastas, seafood and meats grilled in an oven imported from France. 

The Vibe

Wood-paneled with splashes of vivid red, the Piccolina offers the same flavors as Centrolina in a more laid-back atmosphere.

What to Order

Try a wood-fired pizza or one of their sandwiches featuring porchetta or suckling pig. They also make their own focaccia daily. 

Piccolina de Centrolina | 963 Palmer Alley NW., Washington, DC 20001 | $$

27. Bronze

A creative celebration of the African diaspora via Afrofuturism, Bronze is a D.C. restaurant that reimagines history through the fictional character of Alonzo Bronze, creating its own fantasy world in a historic three-story home.

The Vibe

Gourmet fare mixed with storytelling, history and fantasy makes Bronze one of the most unique experiences you’ll encounter among D.C. restaurants. 

What to Order

Start at this D.C. restaurant's large bar on the first floor for a signature cocktail, followed by tasty dishes upstairs like braised oxtail, wild pepper prawns, grilled poulet or whole snapper.

Bronze | 1245 H St. NE., Washington, DC 20002 | $$$

28. Daru

This popular D.C. restaurant based on Indian cuisine blends Northern and Southern flavors with innovative and unorthodox touches. 

The Vibe

The lofted and industrial space of Daru is adorned with art and memorabilia detailing Indian culture, presenting a great casual spot for Indian dining.

What to Order

Classic Indian flavors like chicken tikka masala, chimichurri chutney and chicken reshmi kebabs abound in this D.C. restaurant, alongside fusion items like chicken tikka tacos. 

Daru | 1451 Maryland Ave. NE., Washington, DC 20002 | $$

29. Bar Spero

Named after its award-winning chef and owner, Johnny Spero, this Capital Crossing spot has its roots in Spain’s Basque country, making it one of the best D.C. restaurants for Spanish-style seafood.

The Vibe

Minimalist with luxe accents like gray velvet booths, sculptural lighting and soaring ceilings, Bar Spero is the ideal D.C. restaurant for a special occasion or romantic dinner out. 

What to Order

Order from the raw bar featuring Nantucket scallops, shrimp, lobster and cams. Other highlights at this D.C. restaurant include stuffed chicken wings, fire-roasted squash and yuzu pie.

Bar Spero | 250 Massachusetts Ave. NW., Washington, DC 20001 | $$$$

30. Federalist Pig

This humorously named casual eatery is a favorite repeat contender among D.C. restaurants for the title of best BBQ.

The Vibe

With a rustic tin storefront, the casual interior of Federalist Pig is laid back and no fuss, but is a great spot to pull up a chair or sit at a picnic table for lunch or dinner. 

What to Order

This D.C. restaurant's menu features a large selection of grilled and smoked meats, including brisket, chicken wings and pork rib tips, served with classic sides like mac and cheese, potato salad and garlic green beans. 

Federalist Pig | 1654 Columbia Road NW., Washington, DC 20009 | $$

31. 54 Restaurant

A favorite for sushi among D.C restaurants, this Japanese spot is tucked inside the Springfield Mall offering a huge selection of sushi and other pan-Asian fare.  

The Vibe

Contemporary meets industrial in 54 Restaurant with its expansive dining room that features a full bar and sushi counter amid touches like cherry blossoms and Asian art.

What to Order

Try one of their many rolls like the Volcano Roll or Burning Love Roll, as well as various small plates like spring rolls, potstickers and poke nachos.

54 Restaurant | 6795 Springfield Mall Springfield, VA 22150 | $$

32. Queen’s English

A Hong Kong-style café, Queen’s English is a must-visit among Washington D.C. restaurants for its distinctively romantic décor and wide menu of Chinese regional favorites. 

The Vibe

This romantic D.C. restaurant features floral walls and stylish marble tables, presenting a cozy spot to linger over dinner and drinks, including a widely varied wine selection. 

What to Order

Popular items at this D.C. restaurant include the drunken duck noodles, daikon radish fritters and truffle dumplings.

Queen’s English | 3410 11th St. NW., Washington, DC 20010 | $$$

33. Surfside Dupont

This surf-themed taco stand among D.C. restaurants is a great place to sample Mexican favorites to grab and go.

The Vibe

Casual and beachy, the Surfside Dupont taco stand doesn’t have dedicated dining space on-site but is open 24 hours a day in Dupont Circle.

What to Order

Try the St. Lucia shrimp taco with apples, avocado and sweet chili sauce, or the Punta Cana fried chicken taco with black bean corn salsa and creamy slaw.

Surfside Dupont | 1800 N St. NW., Washington, DC 20036 | $$

34. L’Ardente

This classic Italian eatery regularly earns a spot as one of the favorite pizza spots among D.C. restaurants.

The Vibe

Elevated and chic, wood beams and chandeliers make the interior of L’Ardente a study of rustic meets glam.

What to Order

While the pizzas are classic varieties without clever names, they are worth sampling, as are other flavorful Italian dishes like short rib sugo lasagna, pappardelle with mushroom ragu and truffle gnocchi.

L’Ardente | 200 Massachusetts Ave. NW., Washington, DC 20001

35. Garden District

This casual restaurant has one of the most in-demand patio seatings among D.C. restaurants, serving up classic BBQ fare with an emphasis on sandwiches and craft beers.

The Vibe

This outdoor patio restaurant is always busy in suitable weather. Picnic tables and string lights create a lively and celebratory feel at this D.C. restaurant, perfect for a night on the town.

What to Order

Garden District usually closes up shop when they’ve run out of BBQ, so make sure to get there early for a brisket or pulled pork sandwich.

Garden District | 1801 14th St. NW., Washington, DC 20009 | $$

36. Thip Khao

One of the only D.C. restaurants where you can find Laotian cuisine, this Columbia Heights restaurant excels in offering classic Lao dishes with excellent service. 

The Vibe

High-ceilinged with a lively contemporary feel, Thip Khao has walls that are lined with beautiful artwork wrapped around its comfy seating.

What to Order

Sample their famous Lao papaya salad and tamarind glazed chicken wings. Favorite menu items include Piing, a grilled pork shoulder with lemongrass and Moak — a choice of fish served inside banana leaves.

Thip Khao | 3462 14th St. NW., Washington, DC 20010 | $$

37. 2Fifty Texas BBQ

Though a long way from the Lone Star State, this Texas chain has a location in Riverside Park serving up Texas-style meat and sides.

The Vibe

The bright dining room features a chalkboard menu, an abundance of Texas memorabilia, picnic table seating and a family-style casual feel. 

What to Order

Both pork and beef ribs are among the most famous menu items at 2Fifty Texas BBQ, not to mention their sandwiches and sausages.

2Fifty Texas BBQ | 4700 Riverdale Road, Riverdale Park, MD 20737 | $$

38. Primrose

Once just a French-inspired wine bar, this eatery was one of many D.C. restaurants that widened their focus during the pandemic, including their creation of the perfect burger that regularly makes favorite lists. 

The Vibe

Colorful and dramatic with feathered chandeliers, Primrose is the perfect spot for both dining and drinking from their large selection of cocktails and wine. This ambiance makes Primrose one of the best romantic restaurants in D.C. and its environs.

What to Order

Their smash burger, made with gruyere, onion jam and mayo, put them on the map as one of the best burgers in D.C.

Primrose | 3000 12th St. NE., Washington, DC 20017 | $$$

39. The Girl and The Vine

Located in Takoma Park, this café and wine shop is known among D.C. restaurants for its exquisite and popular sandwiches.

The Vibe

The wine shop location of The Girl and The Vine doubles as a deli and café, offering a wide selection of sandwiches to grab and go or enjoy at their lunch counter. 

What to Order

Try cleverly named sandwiches like the Boss Hog, a Chicken Schnitzel BLT, and the famous Chip-Wich Hoagie with house-made kettle chips tucked inside. 

The Girl and The Vine | 7071 Carroll Ave., Takoma Park, MD 20912 | $$

Try Cooking D.C. Foods

While dining out at every restaurant included above is a dream, you can also sample the best of what D.C. restaurants have to offer from creations in your own home. Cooking classes can be a great way to learn new dishes and up your kitchen skills basics. Try cooking classes in Washington, D.C. to experience everything from Korean barbecue to handcrafted pasta making. 

If you are looking for things to do in D.C., dining (and oftentimes wining) can be a great foodie experience, no matter the occasion. The rich culture of an international capital city and its surrounding area lines every neighborhood with new eateries opening up every day to be sampled and enjoyed.

For even more ways to explore Washington, D.C. and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.