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Top 10 Must-Try Restaurants in the DC Area

top must-try best restaurants in dc area
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Washington, DC, a city steeped in history, boasts exceptional restaurants. In fact, the nation’s capital has one of the most vibrant food scenes in the United States.

Whether you’re a local looking for the next restaurant you should try or a visitor eager to explore the popular culinary spots in the area, this article provides a list of the ten best restaurants in DC that guarantee an amazing gastronomic experience!

a filet mignon on a white plate best restaurants in dc
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1. 1789 Restaurant & Bar

Named after the year Georgetown University was founded, 1789 Restaurant & Bar is one of the best restaurants in Washington DC. It features six dining rooms spread across three floors in a historic Federal period townhouse, each imbued with the neighborhood’s rich history and pedigree.

⭐️ Must-Try:

  1. Lamb Bolognese – Hand-rolled cavatelli, Vadouvan, za’atar, parmesan, and warm lemon-ricotta.
  2. Filet Mignon & Maine Lobster – Pomme Rösti, Thumbelina carrots, and sauce meurette.
  3. Crescent Duck Breast – Foie gras dirty rice, Tuscan kale, and soubise.

Reviews:

“Fantastic restaurant. Its culture, history, food, and service are unique in DC.”

– Juvianee Estrada-Veras

Restaurant Information:

a bowl of meat vegetable and chilli best restaurants in dc
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2. Rasika

Rasika, a Sanskrit word that means “flavors,” is an award-winning modern Indian restaurant owned by Ashok Bajaj. This restaurant showcases authentic Indian cuisine prepared on the Tawa (griddle) and Sigri (open barbeque), as well as Tandoori and regional dishes.

⭐️ Must-Try:

  1. Lamb Biryani – Aromatic lamb, basmati rice, saffron, and raita.
  2. Chicken Khurchan Kathi Roll – Roti, chicken tikka, bell pepper, and kachumber.
  3. Shrimp Manga Curry – Raw mango, mustard seeds, and coconut milk.

Reviews:

“One of the top restaurants in DC. Great experience and atmosphere both inside and outside. Sleek, elegant presentation and display with excellent food. Had the naan, palak chaat, and Kolkata chicken and all were 5 stars!”

– Tristam Osgood

Restaurant Information:

sliced steak with dips and a side of fries best restaurants in dc
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3. The Dabney

The Dabney, owned by Chef Jeremiah Langhorne, serves up the flavors of the Mid-Atlantic with a hint of a Southern accent.

⭐️ Must-Try:

  1. Embered Black Hawk Farms Sirloin – Butterkin squash, fireside farm tatsoi.
  2. Half Dozen Violet Sky Oysters – Foraged pineapple weed mignonette.
  3. Chicken Fried Sprouting Broccoli – Benne tahini, preserved pepper honey.

Reviews:

“Always great food and atmosphere. Dan the Bartender makes a fabulous, crafted cocktail. The Eastern Shore of Virginia summer menu was excellent! Truly tops in DC.”

– Mike Matha

Restaurant Information:

different salmon dishers on a wooden tray best restaurants in dc
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4. Minibar by José Andrés

A culinary oasis famous for its whimsical rendition of dishes that keeps guests on the edge of their seats, excited to see what’s around the next turn of the tasting menu.

⭐️ Must-Try:

  1. Salmon Tartare – Ora king salmon, ‘classic’ tartare sauce, Parker house bun.
  2. Caviar – Kaviari kristal caviar, potato chips.
  3. Foieffle – Foie gras, peanut butter, honey.

Reviews:

“I took my sister to Minibar because of the positive reviews while we were visiting Washington DC. We both walked away with a huge smile on our faces and couldn’t stop talking about the dinner because not only was the food amazing, but the experience/presentation was spectacular. I took her to French Laundry last year for her 50th birthday and it was ok. Minibar blew us away! We took so many pictures and wished we had taken more videos because the photos didn’t do the presentation/experience justice. It has been a long time since I was blown away by a restaurant. I’ve eaten at many 1, 2 and 3 Michelin star restaurants and the food is usually always good, but the experience has been lacking in many of these restaurants. Minibar exceeded my expectations, and I will definitely be going back during my next visit to DC. The food and experience were so amazing, I’m now considering going to Jose Andres’s restaurant in Las Vegas which I heard offers a wonderful experience as well.”

– Naomi Boyd

Restaurant Information:

pasta with vegetable and meat best restaurants in dc
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5. Rose's Luxury

Chef Aaron Silverman is popular for serving comfort food prepared creatively with ingredients you never thought would go together in a cozy, laid-back setting that exudes Southern charm.

⭐️ Must-Try:

  1. Spring Lamb Manfredi – Long lasagna noodles tossed in tomato and lamb ragu.
  2. “Brothers” Beef Back Ribs – Kalbi marinade, grilled until black, served over rice.
  3. Sweet Pea Pasta – Calamarata (calamari-shaped pasta) with peas, shallots, cream, feta, and mint.

Reviews:

“Rose’s Luxury continues to be one of the best restaurants in DC. They are consistently excellent. Ice cream, caviar, and happiness is one of the best dishes on any menu in this city. The staff is knowledgeable and kind. This place is one of my favorites.”

– Kirk Smith

Restaurant Information:

a hotdog sandwhich loaded with toppings best restaurants in dc
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6. Ben's Chili Bowl

Ben’s Chili Bowl has been a DC staple for over six decades. This historic eatery is famous for its half-smoke – a hot dog topped with mustard, onion, and Ben’s traditional chili.

⭐️ Must-Try:

  1. Original Chili Half-Smoke – Grilled and served on a warm steamed bun with mustard, onions, and Ben’s spicy homemade chili sauce.
  2. Ben’s Famous Chili Burger – Served with mayo, lettuce, and Ben’s spicy homemade chili sauce. Available in single or double patties.
  3. Ben’s Famous Chili Bowls – Homemade chili con carne or veggie chili, made with the freshest natural ingredients and a touch of love.

Reviews:

“Iconic place, be sure to visit when in DC. Chili, nacho, dogs, milk shakes, fries, onion rings, any goes. Not pricy, lines out the door move quick, lots of seating in the back of restaurant and in front. Pics of celebrities adorn the wall. Nice ambiance inside. Makes a great memory to carry with you when you’re just a passing traveler.”

– Ria Isa

Restaurant Information:

seafood pasta dish best restaurants in dc
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7. Fiola Mare

Fiola Mare is one of the best seafood restaurants in DC with unparalleled views of the Potomac River. Executive Chef Anton Bolling is highly praised for his unique take on Italian-influenced seafood skillfully prepared with top quality ingredients.

⭐️ Must-Try:

  1. Steak & Eggs – 7oz Black angus filet mignon, gnocchi alla Romana, sunny side up egg, coffee-rosemary jus.
  2. Tarjarin Al Tartufo – 40 egg yolk angel hair, Vermont cultured butter, 36-month aged Parmigiano Reggiano, sage, white truffle.
  3. Eggplant al Funghetto – Graffiti eggplant, black garlic, confit cherry tomatoes, stracciatella cheese, basil, garlic pane fritto.

Reviews:

“One of my favorite places to eat in DC. The food and service are always terrific. And you just cannot beat the view. Today some friends and I came for brunch but usually I come only for special occasions because it’s not the least expensive place. But when I have been for birthdays and anniversaries, they go out of their way to make you feel special. I really appreciate that.”

– Philippa Pham Hughes

Restaurant Information:

a cup of coffee with french almond croissants best restaurants in dc
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8. Le Diplomate

Le Diplomate is the perfect place to enjoy a cup of cappuccino and a delectable croissant on a lazy weekend afternoon. It also boasts a thoughtfully curated wine list and specialty cocktail program to complete this transporting experience.

⭐️ Must-Try:

  1. Escargots à la Bourguignonne – Garlic-parsley butter, baguette.
  2. Beef Bourguignon – Cremini mushrooms, lardons, red wine sauce.
  3. Steak Tartare du Parc – Hand-chopped steak, capers, quail egg.

Reviews:

“A DC institution that has well earned its reputation. The atmosphere is charming and unforgettable, and the food is luxurious without being overbearing. The attention to detail by the wait staff is remarkable and enjoying a meal at Le Diplomat truly feels like a special experience. A must-do for any visitor!”

– Kate

Restaurant Information:

prime ribeye steak with asparagus carrots and potato best restaurants in dc
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9. Old Ebbitt Grill

Located around the corner from the White House and across the street from the Treasury is Washington DC’s oldest bar. Established in 1856, Old Ebbitt Grill boasts the best raw bar in the city, with oysters from both coasts, clams, shrimp and Maine lobster.

⭐️ Must-Try:

  1. Walter’s Favorite – Hot pastrami, Muenster, coleslaw, Thousand Island, pumpernickel.
  2. Short Rib Stroganoff – braised beef short rib, mushroom fricassee, Dijon cream sauce, campanelle, crème fraiche.
  3. Linz Heritage Angus Ribeye – 16oz boneless steak, confit fingerling potatoes with fennel and onions, chili-garlic kale, chimichurri.

Reviews:

“A great historical restaurant with four amazing bars and delicious food choices. A true DC jewel! The wait staff has a terrific knowledge of the deep history of the grill. Each waiter has a story of their “brush with fame”. This is a must-go-to, when you’re in DC.”

– Peggy Cook

Restaurant Information:

steak with potatoes best restaurants in dc
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10. Tail Up Goat

Located in the historic Adams Morgan enclave of Washington, DC, Tail Up Goat is a gem known for its six-course dinner menu that promises a whimsical and deeply satisfying culinary experience.

⭐️ Must-Try:

  1. Beef Cheek – Caramelized coconut, Hakurei turnip, and sweet and spicy peppers.
  2. Lions Mane Mushroom – Sweet potato hoisin glaze, little gem lettuce, turmeric, and labneh.
  3. Seared Scallops – Fennel soubise, XO sauce, and figs.

Reviews:

“One of DC’s finest restaurants tucked away on a quiet street – well deserving of their Michelin star. A quiet place for a delicious meal with innovative cocktails and interesting wines. The hospitality and service level of the staff is remarkable.”

– Steven Boyd

Restaurant Information:

top must-try best restaurants in dc area
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Conclusion

The DC area boasts numerous Michelin-starred restaurants, many of which are in this list, so get ready to experience the exceptional culinary scene in the US capital!

If you have any questions about the DC area and its beautiful neighborhoods, feel free to give me a call today at 202-577-8428 or send me an email at James@theGrantGroup.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

Some of these restaurants require reservations: Rasika, Minibar by José Andrés, Rose’s Luxury, and Fiola Mare.

We recommend you contact the restaurants you’d like to visit to know what hours are less crowded.

Yes, most of these restaurants offer vegetarian options and Tail Up Goat is one of them.