Washington, DC, often conjures images of political drama and historical monuments. However, beneath the surface of power and policy lies a vibrant and diverse culinary scene that rivals any major US city. Over the last decade and a half, the District has blossomed into a true dining destination, moving far beyond the stereotypical steak-and-martini dinners.
Gone are the days when DC dining was solely about hushed conversations in dimly lit bars. Today, the city pulses with culinary innovation, boasting groundbreaking establishments like Minibar, José Andrés’s avant-garde culinary lab; Rasika, Vikram Sunderam’s modern Indian gem; and Rose’s Luxury, the perpetually popular New American eatery known for its inventive small plates.
While these modern marvels draw crowds, the classic DC dining experiences remain just as relevant. Old Ebbitt Grill continues to be a power-lunch and happy-hour hotspot for politicians and locals alike, serving up fresh oysters and timeless American fare. And as a global hub, Washington, DC, naturally offers an incredible array of international cuisines. From Ethiopian and Laotian to Spanish and Georgian, and countless fusion concepts in between, your palate can travel the world without leaving the city.
With a constellation of Michelin stars, James Beard awards, and consistent appearances on “best restaurant” lists nationwide, Washington, DC has solidified its place as a must-visit destination for food lovers.
To navigate this exciting culinary landscape, we’ve consulted with some of the very chefs and restaurateurs who have shaped DC’s impressive food culture. Their insider perspectives will guide you to the best spots for every occasion, from late-night bites and perfect drinks to celebratory meals and quintessential DC experiences. Our experts include Ruth Gresser, chef-owner, and Drew McCormick, beverage director, of Pizzeria Paradiso; Rubén Garcia, Director of Creativity at Minibar; Amy Brandwein, chef of Centrolina; and James Simpson, beverage director of Espita Mezcaleria.
Get ready to discover the diverse and delicious answers to the question: Where To Eat In Washington Dc? While some recommendations are technically just outside the DC border in Maryland, rest assured, all are easily accessible and worth the trip.
Best Late-Night Eats in DC
When hunger strikes late in the evening, Washington DC offers a range of delicious options beyond typical fast food. From Chinatown treasures to industry-favorite hangouts, these are the spots to satisfy your cravings in the wee hours.
New Big Wong
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Serious Eats / Deb Lindsey.
New Big Wong, nestled in the heart of Chinatown, is lauded by chef Opie Crooks as a “cozy, consistent, and always welcoming” spot for late-night dining in DC. Open until 4 a.m. every night, this restaurant is a haven for those seeking classic American-Chinese comfort food after hours. Crooks, former executive chef of A Rake’s Progress, fondly recalls discovering New Big Wong while trying to impress his now-girlfriend, Annie. It has since become an industry staple, known for its large dining room that easily accommodates groups.
Beyond familiar dishes, New Big Wong’s menu features authentic options not typically found in chain restaurants, like salt-and-pepper sardines and pig intestines. Crooks’ personal recommendations include the pan-fried meat dumplings, garlic scapes, crispy beef, vegetable fried rice, scallop fried rice, shrimp toast, walnut shrimp, and beef chow fun. He emphasizes the pan-fried meat dumplings as a standout, praising their made-to-order freshness and flavor, especially when paired with the signature soy sauce.
— Opie Crooks, former executive chef of A Rake’s Progress
New Big Wong, 610 H St NW, Washington, D.C. 20001, 202-628-0491
Anju
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Serious Eats / Deb Lindsey.
For Director of Creativity at Minibar, Rubén Garcia, Anju is the ultimate late-night destination in DC. This modern Korean restaurant near Dupont Circle, part of the Fried Rice Collective, is celebrated for its consistently delicious food and inviting atmosphere. Garcia highlights the restaurant’s dedication to quality, evident in every dish. While Anju is known for its fried potatoes with salad and citrus aioli, Garcia’s personal favorite is the kimchi slaw dog. This late-night staple is elevated with gochujang, hot mustard, and house-made kimchi, fermented for 100 days using a family recipe. The crispy fried chicken, served with creamy white BBQ sauce and spicy Korean BBQ sauce, both made in-house, is another must-try.
Anju’s ambiance is described as “homey and cozy,” particularly on the second floor, reminiscent of dining in someone’s home. Large tables with lazy Susans cater to hotpot dining, enhancing the communal experience. The family involvement of Chef Danny Lee adds a special touch; his aunt’s artwork is displayed, and his mother often assists in the kitchen, making mandu and personally welcoming guests. This familial warmth, Garcia notes, is a unique and cherished aspect of Anju.
— Rubén Garcia, Director of Creativity at Minibar
Anju, 1805 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009, 202-845-8935
TallBoy
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Serious Eats / Deb Lindsey.
For a reliable late-night meal in DC, James Simpson, Beverage director of Espita Mezcaleria, recommends TallBoy. Conveniently located across from Espita, TallBoy is Simpson’s go-to spot after closing his own restaurant. He consistently orders the Kim Cheese (grilled cheese with kimchi) and smoked wings. The wings, smoked in-house in the same kitchen once used by Marjorie Meek-Bradley (Ripple, St. Anselm) for her famous pastrami, are praised for their intense flavor. Simpson prefers the classic Buffalo sauce for the wings, without garnishes.
TallBoy’s atmosphere evokes the casual charm of local watering holes in Charleston, South Carolina, Simpson’s hometown. The bar offers a selection of good beer, simple yet quality food, and excellent service. The interior features corrugated aluminum siding, vintage beer cans, and a cozy setting for about 30 people. Open until 2 a.m. nightly, TallBoy provides a laid-back and satisfying late-night experience in DC.
— James Simpson, Beverage director of Espita Mezcaleria
TallBoy, 1239 9th St NW, Washington, DC 20001, 202-465-4822
Old Ebbitt Grill
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Serious Eats / Deb Lindsey.
Old Ebbitt Grill, a DC institution, remains a top choice for late-night dining and drinks, according to Chef–owner of Centrolina, Amy Brandwein. This classic American restaurant serves burgers and straightforward, delicious fare until 1 a.m., but it’s most famous for its grand, old-school oyster bar. The ambiance is characterized by dark wood, brass fixtures, and large mirrors, creating a timeless setting.
A favorite meeting spot for those in politics and the restaurant industry, Old Ebbitt Grill offers a vibrant after-work scene. Brandwein particularly recommends the late-night oyster happy hour, from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. She praises the oysters as “fantastic and fresh,” with a preference for the small, flavorful Kumamoto oysters paired with mignonette. For a taste of DC history and excellent late-night oysters, Old Ebbitt Grill is a must-visit.
— Amy Brandwein, Chef–owner of Centrolina
Old Ebbitt Grill, 675 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20005, 202-347-4800
Best Drinks in DC
Whether you’re seeking expertly crafted tiki cocktails, an impressive wine list, or just a perfectly brewed Cuban coffee, Washington DC’s bar scene has something for everyone. These are the top spots recommended by local experts.
Archipelago
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Serious Eats / Deb Lindsey.
Archipelago, located on U Street, is James Simpson’s top pick for drinks in DC, offering an authentic tiki experience. He describes it as both an “education” and an “imbibing session.” Simpson appreciates the bar’s clever design, with shades drawn in the front, creating a secluded escape from the bustling U Street corridor.
For the best experience, Simpson suggests sitting at the six-seat bar downstairs, facing the extensive rum collection. He notes the bartenders are more reserved until you offer them a shot, adding to the bar’s unique character. The décor is classic tiki-kitsch, featuring wallpaper and blacklight projections, creating a “chill island vibe.” Simpson’s favorite off-menu cocktail is the Macadamia Nut Chi-Chi, a “tropical and boozy” drink with a “bright, clean finish,” served in a green mug. His second favorite, also off-menu, is a frozen Piña Colada served in a pineapple with playful garnishes. For a true tiki escape in DC, Archipelago is the place to go.
— James Simpson
Archipelago, 1201 U St NW, Washington, DC 20009, 202-627-0794
Ellē
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Serious Eats / Deb Lindsey.
Drew McCormick, Beverage director of Pizzeria Paradiso, recommends Ellē, located in Mount Pleasant, right above his own apartment. He describes it as “all your favorite things in one beautiful, relaxing place,” combining coffee, sweets, and drinks with a selection of pickled foods. Ellē brings craft cocktails and baked goods to Mount Pleasant, while also respecting the history of the former Heller’s Bakery that occupied the space.
While Ellē is located in the historic Heller’s Bakery, the interior is completely transformed. A coffee counter with warm lighting and pastry displays leads to a back bar and dining room. The green-stone bartop invites guests to relax and enjoy a martini. McCormick is a fan of the rotating cocktail menu by Sean MacPherson and Dante Datta, particularly the Cashmere Gold, a “light and floral” gin and cognac-based cocktail with ginger and saffron notes. For a sophisticated yet relaxed drink experience in DC, Ellē is an excellent choice.
— Drew McCormick, Beverage director of Pizzeria Paradiso
Ellē, 3221 Mt Pleasant St NW,, Washington, DC 20010, 202-652-0040
Colada Shop
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Serious Eats / Deb Lindsey.
Rubén Garcia from Minibar is a big fan of Colada Shop, a Cuban-inspired café that transitions from a coffee shop during the day to a cocktail bar in the evening. He describes it as a “really fun” and “welcoming and friendly space” that’s relaxed and brightly colored. Colada Shop is versatile, serving breakfast, lunch, and then transforming into a lively cocktail spot at night, attracting neighbors, office workers, and evening crowds. The atmosphere, music, and aromas evoke the spirit of Cuba, especially after a few cocktails.
Colada Shop focuses on straightforward offerings made with high-quality ingredients and techniques. Their namesake “Colada” is a strong, sweet Cuban coffee drink, perfect with pastelitos or empanadas. The cocktail menu is inspired by Miami’s Calle Ocho, featuring rum-based classics like mojitos, piña coladas, and the Hotel Nacional. Garcia praises the consistent quality and authentic Cuban vibe, making Colada Shop a top destination for drinks in DC.
— Rubén Garcia
Colada Shop, multiple locations, 202-332-8800
Best Splurge Restaurants in DC
For those special occasions when you want to indulge in a truly memorable dining experience, Washington DC offers a selection of high-end restaurants perfect for a splurge. These are the top recommendations for a luxurious dinner in the District.
Gravitas
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Serious Eats / Deb Lindsey.
Gravitas, a modern American restaurant in Ivy City, has become James Simpson’s new go-to splurge restaurant in DC. He initially aimed to try a new splurge-worthy restaurant seasonally, but Gravitas, helmed by Chef Matt Baker, has impressed him so much he might change his routine. Simpson praises the “exceptional team” at Gravitas for consistently creating “new, inspiring, and refined menus.”
The cuisine at Gravitas emphasizes ingredients from the Chesapeake watershed, featuring seafood like tuna and oysters, as well as local meats and vegetables. Simpson highlights the oxtail porridge with black truffles and parsnips as a recent standout dish, perfect for fall. The oxtail is served with its braising liquid, incredibly tender and flavorful, alongside oat porridge and parsnips. For a refined and innovative dining experience in DC, Gravitas is a top choice for a splurge.
— James Simpson
Gravitas, 1401 Okie St NE, Washington, DC 20002, 202-763-7942
Little Serow (Closed)
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Serious Eats / Deb Lindsey.
While sadly now closed, Little Serow remains a fondly remembered splurge restaurant in DC for chef Opie Crooks. Specializing in Northern Thai cuisine, Crooks considered it “consistently one of the best places to eat in the city, hands down.” He praised the “great, straightforward cooking” and the cozy, no-frills dining room, which was often frequented by other chefs and industry professionals.
Little Serow offered a unique dining experience with a pre-set, rotating menu of spicy dishes, without special accommodations. Crooks was a “huge fan” of the Golden Mermaid Menu, a seafood-focused menu offered several times a year. He fondly recalls a “crazy fried fish” dish with Southeast Asian flavors. Though Little Serow is no longer an option, its legacy as a top DC dining destination endures.
— Opie Crooks
Little Serow (Closed), 1511 17th St NW, Washington, DC 20036
Del Mar
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Serious Eats / Deb Lindsey.
Del Mar, situated in the luxurious Wharf area, is Ruth Gresser’s recommendation for a splurge-worthy meal in DC. She describes it as a “light-filled and impeccably designed space” in a neighborhood that exudes “high-end luxury.” Del Mar offers a chance to experience the cuisine of celebrated DC chef Fabio Trabocchi (of Fiola Mare and Sfoglina Pasta House) with waterfront views of the Potomac. As a Spanish seafood restaurant, Del Mar excels in fish dishes.
Gresser enjoyed a celebratory lunch at Del Mar, praising the crudo, plated with edible flowers, and the paellas, known as some of the best in the city. While Del Mar’s “more-is-more feel” isn’t typically Gresser’s preferred style, she acknowledges that it “works” and is “very luxe.” She highlights the restaurant’s attention to detail, from plating and presentation to stellar service, creating a “very special restaurant” experience. For a luxurious seafood splurge in DC, Del Mar is an excellent choice.
— Ruth Gresser
Del Mar, 791 Wharf St SW, Washington, DC 20024, 202-525-1402
Best Brunch Spots in DC
From elegant French-inspired spreads to classic dim sum and spicy ramen, Washington DC’s brunch scene is diverse and delicious. These are the top brunch recommendations from local chefs.
Convivial
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Serious Eats / Deb Lindsey.
Amy Brandwein recommends Convivial for brunch in DC, praising Chef Cedric Maupillier’s “big, beautiful spread.” She describes the restaurant’s interior as “modern and bright” with a “casual feel” that still maintains a “backbone of fine dining,” similar to her own restaurant, Centrolina. Brandwein took her mother to Convivial for brunch, and she “loved it,” appreciating the “hip” and exciting atmosphere.
Convivial’s brunch menu is à la carte, featuring creative and well-executed dishes. Brandwein enjoyed the homemade smoked salmon with capers, red onions, toasted brioche, and crème fraîche, as well as the fresh juices. Other notable dishes include the beef tartare with crispy potato and the restaurant’s famous quiche, a large and artistic creation with leeks, onions, and Gruyère. For a stylish and delicious brunch in DC, Convivial is a top recommendation.
— Amy Brandwein
Convivial, 801 O St NW, Washington, DC 20001, 202-525-2870
Hollywood East Café
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Serious Eats / Deb Lindsey.
Ruth Gresser makes a case for venturing to a shopping mall for exceptional dim sum at Hollywood East Café in Wheaton, Maryland, just north of DC. She discovered it after moving north of the city, appreciating the diverse culinary scene in Wheaton, with its large immigrant population. Gresser also supports women-owned businesses and is a longtime friend of chef-owner Janet Yu.
Hollywood East Café is consistently “very busy for dim sum,” with a large, well-run dining room and roving carts offering a constant stream of dishes. Gresser recommends the turnip cake, most of the dumplings, and occasionally, the chicken feet. She considers it “hands down one of the best places for dim sum in the city,” making it worth the trip from DC.
— Ruth Gresser
Hollywood East Cafe, 11160 Veirs Mill Road, Wheaton, 240-290-9988
Can’t-Miss Bites in DC
For a true taste of Washington DC, these restaurants are essential visits, offering unique atmospheres and iconic dishes that capture the spirit of the city’s dining scene.
Rose’s Luxury
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Serious Eats / Deb Lindsey.
Rose’s Luxury, while always feeling “new” and innovative, is a definitive “don’t-miss” DC dining experience, according to James Simpson. He credits Aaron Silverman and his team for embodying hospitality and showcasing the best of DC through seasonal New American small plates with global influences.
The restaurant’s space is “cozy and warm,” with “little nooks,” plants, and string lights, creating an inviting ambiance. Simpson praises the “smart and engaging” staff who pay attention to detail and enhance the dining experience. He recalls his first visit, waiting in line for two hours and ordering the entire menu, leaving wanting to rejoin the line immediately. Rose’s Luxury’s lychee salad with pork sausage, habanero, and peanuts is a standout dish, balancing creaminess, sweetness, and savory notes. The menu is highly seasonal, inspired by farmers markets, ensuring fresh and creative dishes. For a quintessential DC dining experience, Rose’s Luxury is a must.
— James Simpson
Rose’s Luxury, 717 8th St SE, Washington, DC 20003, 202-580-8889
Bistrot du Coin
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Serious Eats / Deb Lindsey.
Bistrot du Coin holds personal significance for Rubén Garcia, as it was the first restaurant José Andrés took him to in DC. This “authentic” French bistro in Dupont Circle reminds Garcia of Paris, offering a “casual, honest, and beautiful restaurant” for classic French cuisine. He appreciates the “good and fun environment” and the romantic ambiance, having taken dates there in the past.
The food at Bistrot du Coin is “like something you’d eat at home,” unpretentious yet delicious. Garcia recommends the grilled ribeye, cooked “to perfection,” served with “freaking delicious French fries” made from scratch and Béarnaise sauce. For a taste of classic French bistro fare in DC, Bistrot du Coin is a beloved choice.
— Rubén Garcia
Bistrot du Coin, 1738 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20009, 202-234-6969
Buck’s Fishing & Camping
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Serious Eats / Deb Lindsey.
Buck’s Fishing & Camping, located in northwest DC, offers an “awesome ambiance” and is a must-visit for Amy Brandwein. She describes it as a “neighborhood place” with “terrific food and a great vibe—artsy and sort of moody.” The décor evokes an “old fishing camp” with canoes on the ceiling, large plants, and “great, dark red lighting,” creating an “intimate and dark” escape from DC.
Brandwein highly recommends the cheeseburger, made with “great prime beef” and a brioche bun, served with “massive French fries” and “the best aioli” she’s ever had. Buck’s Fishing & Camping was recognized in Washington Post food critic Tom Sietsma’s hall of fame for its enduring quality and unique character. For a memorable and atmospheric DC dining experience, Buck’s is an excellent choice.
— Amy Brandwein
Buck’s Fishing & Camping, 5031 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008, 202-364-0777
Bethesda Crab House
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Serious Eats / Deb Lindsey.
Bethesda Crab House, just outside DC in Bethesda, Maryland, is Ruth Gresser’s essential DC-area experience. She describes it as an “old-school kind of place” with “brown paper–covered picnic tables,” “pitchers of beer,” and “sports on TV.” The focus is on “large, tasty crabs” served Maryland-style. Gresser notes the place has remained unchanged for years, offering an authentic and casual crab house experience.
Gresser orders the steamed Maryland blue crabs, local to the region and seasoned with an Old Bay–style spice blend, paired with local beer. While the menu includes other items, she emphasizes that the crabs are the main attraction. Her DC-native spouse introduced her to Bethesda Crab House before DC’s current food scene emerged, and it remains a cherished spot for this Baltimore native. For a classic Maryland crab feast experience near DC, Bethesda Crab House is a must-visit.
— Ruth Gresser
Bethesda Crab House, 4958 Bethesda Ave, Bethesda, MD 20814, 301-652-3382
(Chefs’ responses have been edited and condensed for clarity.)
(May 2021)
