15 perfect restaurants in Washington, United States
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Welcome to Washington, where our appetite for great food knows no bounds! If your taste buds are seeking a culinary adventure, fret not, for we have scoured the city to present you with the crème de la crème of the dining scene. From a quirky spot serving gourmet hot dogs with a side of humor to an upscale establishment that will have you singing odes to seafood, this guide reveals the 15 restaurants that will leave your stomach in a state of pure bliss. Bon appétit, fellow foodies!
Save destination1. Komi
1509 17th St NW, Washington, DC 20036, USA
Welcome to Komi in Washington, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the city! With its warm and inviting ambiance, this lively restaurant offers a truly unique culinary experience. Prepare to embark upon a gastronomic adventure as you indulge in a menu bursting with innovative dishes showcasing international flavors. Whether you're savoring their mouthwatering Arctic char or relishing the delectable zucchini tart, Komi promises to take your taste buds on a journey they won't soon forget!
Learn more2. Plume
3119 Eastlake Ave E, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
Welcome to Plume, a delightful little town in Washington! This charming gem is surrounded by lush mountains and picturesque scenery, perfect for all your nature-loving escapades. While Plume may not have skyscrapers reaching for the stars, it compensates with its warm-hearted locals who can turn even the simplest interaction into a memorable comedy sketch. So grab your hiking boots, embrace your inner adventurer, and get ready for a delightful blend of Mother Nature's beauty and laughter-filled encounters in Plume!
Learn more3. Little Serow
1511 17th St NW, Washington, DC 20036, USA
Tucked away in the vibrant Dupont Circle neighborhood of Washington, D.C., lies a gastronomic gem known as Little Serow. This popular dining spot invites intrepid eaters to embark on a culinary adventure through the flavors of Northern Thailand without the need for a passport. Brace yourself for a no-frills, subterranean dining experience where fiery spice levels and harmonious flavors mingle in perfect, mouth-watering harmony.
Learn more4. Bad Saint
3226 11th St NW, Washington, DC 20010, USA
Hidden away in the charming neighborhood of Columbia Heights in Washington, you'll find Bad Saint, the Asian-inspired gem that promises to electrify your taste buds. Step inside and prepare for a culinary adventure that will leave you begging for seconds, and thirds, and okay, maybe fifths too. With its cozy, intimate atmosphere, you'll feel like you stumbled upon a secret dinner party hosted by a mischievous gourmet club.
Learn more5. The Dabney
122 Blagden Alley NW, Washington, DC 20001, USA
Welcome to The Dabney, a charming culinary haven tucked away in the heart of Washington, D.C. This delightful eatery will transport you back to a time when bearded chefs dominated the kitchen and hipsters debated the perfect beet-to-kale ratio. With its rustic ambiance and innovative approach to American cuisine, The Dabney promises a culinary experience that will make your taste buds dance like no one's watching (except maybe the food critics). So, grab a fork, put on your culinary adventure hat, and get ready for a deliciously quirky journey through the flavors of yesteryear.
Learn more6. Rose's Luxury
717 8th St SE, Washington, DC 20003, USA
Welcome to Rose's Luxury, a culinary oasis tucked away in Washington, where "Rose" is not a person but a culinary deity whose blessings come in the form of mouthwatering dishes. Like a secret hideout for epicurean adventurers, this restaurant offers a mind-boggling menu that will make your taste buds scream with joy, and possibly ask for seconds. Be prepared to experience a gastronomic journey that will leave you with food-induced amnesia, an urge to hug the chef, and a desire to cancel all future dinner plans.
Learn more7. Rappahannock Oyster Bar
1150 Maine Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024, USA
Welcome to the Rappahannock Oyster Bar, where the salty breeze tickles your nose and the oysters are fresher than a newly minted SpongeBob episode. Nestled in the heart of Washington, this charming seafood joint will have you oohing and aahing faster than you can say "shuck that!" With an ambiance that screams nautical chic and a menu that will make even Aquaman swim with envy, prepare to indulge in a shellfish extravaganza that will have you singing seafood praises from the top of the Washington Monument.
Learn more8. Pineapple and Pearls
715 8th St SE, Washington, DC 20003, USA
Nestled in the vibrant capital of Washington, Pineapple and Pearls is the culinary mecca that simultaneously blows your taste buds away and makes your bank account go "ouch!" With its unassuming exterior, this Michelin-starred restaurant will make you question whether you've stumbled into a secret gastronomic society or stumbled out of your budget. From the moment you step through its doors, prepare to be pampered with impeccable service, an extravagant 11-course menu, and possibly a silent judgment if you accidentally drop a fork.
Learn more9. Sushi Nakazawa
1100 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004, USA
Welcome to Sushi Nakazawa in Washington, where precision meets playfulness in a harmonious dance between chopsticks and taste buds. Nestled discreetly in the heart of the capital, this culinary gem serves as an oasis of exquisite sushi, expertly crafted with the deftness of a ninja and the flair of a magician. With each bite, prepare to embark on a flavor-filled journey that will leave you asking yourself, “Wasabi that good or did I just meet the love of my life?"
Learn more10. Marcel's
2401 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20037, USA
Welcome to Marcel's in Washington, where a good meal is like a turbulent roller coaster ride—only less likely to make you scream and more likely to make you drool. Nestled in a historic townhouse, this elegant restaurant offers haute cuisine that'll take your taste buds on a wild escapade. From the moment you step inside, prepare for a gustatory adventure that'll have you raising your forks and waving your napkins like frenzied food enthusiasts.
Learn more11. Fiola
entrance on Indiana Ave, 601 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004, USA
Tucked away in the heart of Washington, Fiola is like that eccentric connoisseur friend who always knows the best places to dine. With a whimsical touch of luxury, this culinary gem invites guests to indulge in an enchanting voyage through the flavors of Italy. Prepare to be transported to a realm where the pastas are more irresistible than a midday nap and the wine flows smoother than a politician's compliment.
Learn more12. Rasika
633 D St NW, Washington, DC 20004, USA
Nestled in the heart of Washington, the enchanting Rasika is a culinary escape like no other. It generously serves an array of delectable Indian dishes that will make your taste buds tango with joy. With a vibrant ambiance and an ever-smiling staff, brace yourself for an unforgettable dining experience that will leave your stomach, and probably your wallet, extremely satisfied.
Learn more13. Maydan
1346 Florida Ave NW, Washington, DC 20009, USA
If you're in Washington and looking for a slice of green heaven, let me introduce you to Maydan. Picture this: a delightful 6,000 square feet open-air space tucked away downtown, where the locals flock to forget the hustle and bustle. With its luscious landscaped lawns, vibrant flower beds, and an impressive cascading fountain, Maydan is like Mother Nature's secret oasis that she only reveals to her closest friends.
Learn more14. Tail Up Goat
1827 Adams Mill Rd NW, Washington, DC 20009, USA
Nestled in the heart of Washington lies the quirky and charming Tail Up Goat, a culinary destination that can make any goat wag its tail in excitement. With a whimsical and eclectic decor, this restaurant brings the perfect blend of sophistication and goat-themed fun. Prepare your taste buds for a wild ride, as the menu features creative dishes that will make you jump up and cheer... just like a goat with its tail up!
Learn more15. Minibar by José Andrés
855 E St NW, Washington, DC 20004, USA
Welcome to Minibar by José Andrés, where culinary magic takes place in Washington. This quirky restaurant is a gastronomic renaissance in a tiny space. Prepare to be amazed by the whimsical dishes that will obliterate your preconceptions about what a 'minibar' should offer.
Learn moreHow to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Washington, United States by plane is to fly into Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport which is located in Arlington, Virginia, just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C.
Car
Driving to Washington, D.C. is a great option, as it's easily accessible from major highways, including I-95, I-295, and I-495. Parking may be a bit challenging and expensive, but there are many parking garages throughout the city.
Train
There is a train station in Washington, D.C. called Union Station, where you can arrive from various nearby cities like New York or Philadelphia via Amtrak or commuter rail services.
Boat
While not the most practical way to get there, you can take a boat to Washington, D.C. via the Potomac River. Just south of D.C. is the National Harbor, which serves as a port for many cruises and water taxis. You can also take a ferry from nearby Alexandria, Virginia.
Bus
If you're looking to travel by bus, Greyhound and Megabus offer services from major cities to the DC area. You can arrive at Union Station or the Greyhound terminal.