Foodie Experience
Washington, DC is no longer an up-and-coming foodie town. We’ve arrived. From creative fare to celebrity chefs to unique venues, the nation’s capital boasts diverse restaurants sure to fit any palette and price range.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Eat your way around Washington, DC with this delicious go-to guide.
Explore family-friendly dining options that will satisfy even the littlest -- and pickiest -- taste buds.
Taste for yourself why Washington, DC is not only the nation's capital, but a culinary capital.
Find Places
Or browse neighborhood listings by the numbers
- Breweries(3 listings)
- Culinary Tours(2 listings)
- Restaurants(669 listings)
- Wine & Wineries(3 listings)
DC Travel Inspiration
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Pictured: Barracks Row
The commercial corridor on 8th Street Southeast between Pennsylvania Avenue and the historic Navy Yard is known as Barracks Row. Homey but chic, shopping options include housewares, book shops, bike shops and pet stores.
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Pictured: Eastern Market
DC's oldest continually operating fresh food market, Eastern Market attracts vendors and visitors on weekends. Find fresh flowers, used books, baked goods, preserves and other tasteful (and tasty!) souvenirs. - Photo by Joe Shymanski
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Pictured: Eastern Market
Located in the heart of the historic Capitol Hill neighborhood, Eastern Market is DC's destination for fresh food, community events and, on weekends, local farm-fresh produce and handmade arts and crafts. - Photo by Joe Shymanski
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Pictured: FRESHFARM Market in Dupont Circle
FreshFarm Market operates on Sunday mornings on 20th Street NW between Massachusetts and Connecticut Avenues. During peak season, more than 40 farmers offer fruits and vegetables, meat, fish, cheeses, breads, flowers, soaps and more.
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Pictured: Adams Morgan nightlife
Adams Morgan's main drag, 18th and Columbia Road NW, is peppered with bars offering enticements like karaoke, live jazz, rooftop dining, crawfish boils, salsa classes, DJ nights, pub quiz, and African pop.
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Pictured: Dining al fresco on Capitol Hill
Many of the 1,960-something restaurants in the District have outdoor space. And, as these Capitol Hill denizens know, diners in Washington, DC can enjoy meals outside at least seven months a year.
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Pictured: DC Metro Food Tour
Eat your way through Washington, DC! DC Metro Food Tours takes visitors on a culinary experience through a number of DC's unique neighborhoods. - Photo by DC Metro Food Tours
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Pictured: Michelle Obama at a Farmer's Market
As leader of the "Let's Move" campaign, it's not unusual to spot First Lady Michelle Obama out and about in DC. Here she picks up some veggies at a local farmer's market.
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Pictured: Jose Andres
DC favorite Jose Andres heads up a number of high-profile restaurants in the city, including Zaytinya, Oyamel, Jaleo and minibar.
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Pictured: Vegetables at Dupont Circle farmer's market
In operation since 1997, the Sunday-morning FRESHFARM market at Dupont Circle is an excellent introduction to the food bounty of the mid-Atlantic and the farmers who cultivate fruits, vegetables, flowers, cheeses, meat, poultry, fish, honey and dairy.
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Pictured: Dining in DC
Travel and Leisure called DC "one of the most exciting restaurant cities on the East Coast" and it's easy to see why. With more than 100 restaurants in the region from celebrity chefs and homegrown favorites, there's a culinary delight aroun
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Pictured: Ben's Chili Bowl on U Street
Opened by Ben and Virginia Ali in 1958, Ben’s Chili Bowl draws hungry crowds from early in the morning until late at night. Ben’s stays open until 2 a.m. during the week and until 4 a.m. on weekends.
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Pictured: Penn Quarter Farmers Market
Penn Quarter Farmers Market
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Pictured: Taste of DC
Taste of DC
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Pictured: Local cheeses at the Dupont Circle Freshfarm market
Local cheeses at the Dupont Circle Freshfarm market
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Pictured: Ben's Chili Bowl
Celebrity clientele at this U Street staple include Barack Obama and Bill Cosby, but it's the half-smokes that have kept Ben's Chili Bowl in business for more than 50 years. It's open until 2 a.m. weekdays and 4 a.m. weekends.
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Pictured: Marvin Restaurant
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Pictured: Dukem Ethiopian Restaurant
Located in "Little Ethopia" on U Street, the beloved restaurant Dukem serves up exotic delicacies like doro wat chicken, injera flatbread, berbere spice mixes and freshly roasted coffee.
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Pictured: Cake Love Bakery
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Pictured: Ted's Bulletin Restaurant
Local favorite Ted’s Bulletin is named after founders Mark and Ty Neal’s West Virginia-born father, who “always had a pot of chili, beef stew, or some kind of rustic soup on the stove.”
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Pictured: Ted's Bulletin Restaurant
Ted’s Bulletin’s décor and food are both inspired by classic American diners.
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Pictured: Farmer's market at Eastern Market
Merchants of the farmer’s market at Eastern Market sell produce, meat and fish daily, and on weekends you can also find crafts and antiques.
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Pictured: Dining al fresco in Barracks Row
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Pictured: Maine Avenue Fish Market
The historic Maine Avenue Fish Market is a seafood lover’s dream. Make sure to try one of the region’s culinary delicacies—steamed crabs from the nearby Chesapeake Bay. - Photo by Elvert Barnes
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Pictured: Maine Avenue Fish Market
Washingtonians have been buying fresh fish at the Maine Avenue Fish Market, located in the Southwest Waterfront neighborhood, for nearly two centuries. - Photo by Kate Gardiner
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Pictured: Charlie Palmer Steak
Charlie Palmer Steak prides itself on serving "big, bold American food," including aged Angus rib-eye and a range of seafood. Its wine list features over 600 American selections. Private dining space is available.
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Pictured: Graffiato
Chef Mike Isabella (a Top Chef favorite) serves up not-so-traditional Italian dishes (and Prosecco on tap) in this Chinatown neighborhood hot spot. - Photo by Graffiato
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Pictured: Jaleo Tapas Bar
Jaleo by José Andrés opened in DC's Penn Quarter in 1993 and quickly became a staple of the neighborhood. Known for its tapas and paellas, the restaurant underwent a stylish redesign in 2012.
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Pictured: Tabaq Bistro
Located on U Street, Tabaq Bistro features a unique blend of Mediterranean tapas in an eccentric atmosphere with a view - it's rooftop is open year-round.
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Pictured: Zengo
Located in Chinatown/Penn Quarter, Zengo features eccentric Latin-Asian cuisine in an electric atmosphere. - Photo by Zengo
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Pictured: 1789 Restaurant
Opened in 1960 in a Federal period home, 1789 is made up of six separate dining rooms, including this one featuring a cozy fireplace.
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Pictured: Blue Duck Tavern
Blue Duck Tavern boasts a cheese and charcuterie expert on staff and the seal of approval from the Obamas, who had one of their famous date nights here.
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Pictured: Sax Restaurant & Lounge
Sax Lounge is a truly unique venue in DC. Featuring French fare, guests dine and sip champagne while watching acrobats, burlesque dancers and other exotic acts. - Photo by Juan Carlos Briceno
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Pictured: The Passenger
The Passenger in DC's Shaw neighborhood serves up live music and a dining area that resembles an old fashioned train car. - Photo by Jim Webb
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Pictured: The Passenger
The Passenger in DC's Shaw neighborhood serves up live music and a dining area that resembles an old fashioned train car. - Photo by Jim Webb
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Pictured: Mr. Smith's of Georgetown
Mr. Smith's in Georgetown is the "Friendliest Saloon in Town" with dueling piano players and, in the warmer months, an outdoor patio popular at happy hour.
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Pictured: P.O.V. Rooftop Lounge & Terrace
P.O.V. Rooftop Lounge & Terrace at the W Hotel is the scene to see and be seen - and a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike.
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Pictured: Policy
A restaurant and dance club rolled into one, Policy offers a great option for all night long. Start the night at the bar then head upstairs to Libery Lounge where DJs spin old school, hip hop and top 40s.
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Pictured: Helix Lounge
The quirky yet sophisticated Hotel Helix offers an outdoor lounge in the summer for imbibing on specialty cocktails and craft beers.
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Pictured: The Source by Wolfgang Puck
The Source is the creation of Wolfgang Puck, one of the world's most renowned chefs. Known for its Asian cuisine, The Source also features vegetarian dishes and an extensive dessert menu.
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Pictured: Restaurant Nora
Restaurant Nora was the first certified organic restaurant in the United States. Featuring seasonal food prepared without chemicals, it is a popular dining spot for environmentalists and politicians throughout the District.
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Pictured: Acadiana
Named by Washingtonian Magazine as one of the city's "100 Very Best Restaurants," Acadiana specializes in Louisiana cuisine, with an expansive bar and dining room, along with space for private dining. - Photo by Passion Food Hospitality
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Pictured: 1789 Restaurant decorated for the holidays
1789 Restaurant, made of three Federal-period townhomes with six individual dining rooms, transforms into a Christmas wonderland with six unique settings.
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Pictured: The Grill from Ipanema bar
Although it is located in Adams Morgan, The Grill from Ipanema transports you to Rio de Janeiro with its authentic Brazilian food and drink. - Photo by The Grill from Ipanema
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Pictured: Founding Farmers
Founding Farmers is one of the country's leading "green" restaurants. Opened in 2008 in Northwest DC on Pennsylvania Avenue, the restaurant prides itself on a farm-to-table, eco-friendly menu and earthy decor.
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Pictured: Carmine's
Carmine's is a family-style Italian restaurant located in the heart of Downtown DC, mere blocks away from the Verizon Center. It is known for its large-portioned meals and cozy family atmosphere.
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Pictured: Seasons Restaurant at the Four Seasons Hotel
Seasons Restaurant at the Four Seasons Hotel provides an elegant dining experience with seasonal and regional ingredients. This award-winning establishment features walls of windows which look out to beautiful gardens, giving it a sophisticated setting.
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Pictured: Dining Room at 1789
Outfitted with antique décor, historical prints and Limoges china, 1789 is one of DC's premiere restaurants. It has five dining rooms and a menu that sports Norwegian salmon and aged rib-eye.
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Pictured: Clyde's of Georgetown
Clyde's of Georgetown is a legendary DC restaurant. Opened in 1963, it retains a classic American feel with its decor and cuisine. It is an essential stop if spending a day in Georgetown.
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Pictured: Circle Bar at Clyde's of Gallery Place
Clyde’s of Gallery Place, next to Verizon Center, is the perfect pre- or post-game/event destination. Grand Victorian style mixes with a menu featuring varied American cuisine, making this a swoon-worthy saloon.
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Pictured: Jaleo Tapas Bar
Jaleo by José Andrés opened in DC's Penn Quarter in 1993 and quickly became a staple of the neighborhood. Known for its tapas and paellas, the restaurant underwent a stylish redesign in 2012.
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Pictured: The Hamilton
The Hamilton restaurant & The Hamilton Live venue opened in the District in 2011. The restaurant features sophisticated American cuisine and great drink selection, while the live venue embraces underground music throughout the Metropolitan area.
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Pictured: Oyamel Cocina Mexicana
Famous chef José Andrés founded this concept restaurant which features unique Mexican small plates, ceviches, tacos, margaritas, wines and tequilas. Oyamel brings the atmosphere of Mexico City to DC's Penn Quarter.
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Pictured: Oyamel Cocina Mexicana
Famous chef José Andrés founded this concept restaurant which features unique Mexican small plates, ceviches, tacos, margaritas, wines and tequilas. Oyamel brings the atmosphere of Mexico City to DC's Penn Quarter.
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Pictured: Zaytinya
Zaytinya is a José Andrés /ThinkFoodGroup restaurant which offers a creative menu consisting of Turkish, Greek and Lebanese cuisine. Innovative cocktails and Mediterranean wine are also featured in this sleek Downtown establishment.
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Pictured: Juniper Restaurant at the Fairmont Washington, D.C. Georgetown
Utilizing locally sourced ingredients (including honey from the hotel's own rooftop hives), Juniper Restaurant serves seasonal Mid-Atlantic fare in a relaxed setting indoors or al fresco in the hotel’s courtyard. - Photo by The Fairmont Washington, D.C. Georgetown
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Trip Ideas
Eateries in this largely residential neighborhood favor family-friendly atmosphere.
Find both quick bites and luxurious meals near Arena Stage and the National Mall.
Funky finds include award-winning vegan cupcakes, home-sewn clothing, and magical objects that raise monies for children's literacy.
Find expansive wine lists and generous portions on this leafy, quiet stretch of Connecticut Avenue.
Happy hour rules at this triangular intersection of the bustling Capitol Hill, H Street Corridor and K Street districts.
Take an around-the-world tasting tour in just a few Georgetown meals.
H Street pushes limits and its restaurants are no exception, with several unique concepts and menu novelties.
It's all about the novelty in this design-centric neighborhood, where each restaurant features as much to look at as to eat and drink.
Start at the corner of M and Wisconsin to satisfy a sweet tooth or a passion for fashion.
After a day of touring the District, tuck in to a delicious dinner at one of these five restaurants -- all featuring cozy fireplaces.
Located near the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean, DC is known for its seafood specialties such as delicious blue crab cakes and tasty rockfish. Cozy up to an oyster bar or take a stroll through the oldest operating fish market in the United States.
The skyrocketing interest in regional food is mirrored by the number of cheese plates on DC menus. Paired with wine flights, this combo transports diners to nearby Virginia hillsides or farther afield to the likes of Napa, Mendoza or Tuscany.
Craft beers are a nation-wide phenomenon, and DC is one of America's city's leading the charge with creative concepts and forward-thinking experts. Taste the difference yourself at any of these proven public houses.
When warm weather descends on the nation’s capital, outdoor dining is clutch. Get the low-down on all kinds of alfresco experiences, from historic chili dog vendors to exotic food trucks or from patio lunches to restaurants with retractable rooftops.
Washington, DC’s oldest continually operated fresh food public market, located on Capitol Hill.
Nothing makes DC locals happier than Happy Hour. Do what the locals do then and start your night off right at any of DC’s popular bars and lounges. From intimate nooks and trendy rooftops to entertaining hotspots and chill settings, DC has some of th
Barack and Michelle Obama support DC with frequent trips to some of the city’s best restaurants. If you can’t get an invite to the White House, these establishments are the next best thing. Get into the American spirit with these First Family faves.
Expect stunning Potomac River views, classically prepared cuisine and killer prix fixe menus for nights out at the Kennedy Center.
Find hearty American favorites like steak and seafood near Embassy Row, with a little international flair here and there.
Whether a fancy sit-down dinner or a quick bite from a food truck, DC's got what you're craving.
Sample the flavors of the season at DC's farmers' markets, where you'll find food and entertainment.
Belly up to these football-loving bars to cheer on your favorite team every Sunday.
Explore DC's only all-residential circle filled with row houses, boutiques and foodie favorites.
Take your taste buds on a tour through DC's distinct -- and flavorful -- neighborhoods.
Eat and drink your way through locations in DC that played a part in the Civil War or civil rights.
Stylish restaurants, celebrity chefs and fresh local fare are all on the menu in Washington, DC.
Relax for the day with yoga, then rev up the night with live music available almost every night of the week.
Experience novelties like restaurant mini golf, a concert venue that looks like a hotel, and an envelope-pushing art gallery in this edgy, up-and-coming neighborhood.
Hip and casual food and drink menus attract a sophisticated crowd.
Unusual options from bold-faced-named chefs add flavor downtown DC.
Check soul food, bar food and late night eats off your list.
Logan Circle loves design, which is why many of its attractions revolve around interesting visuals like historic houses, restored furniture and avant-garde plays. Let your eye wander.
Bring your appetite for an eclectic mix of farm favorites, diner grub, and more whiskey than you've ever seen.
Get a taste of Washington, DC, foodie favorites in 3 days.
