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The Best Restaurants in Washington DC

Washington, DC, may be best known for its history, monuments, and cherry blossoms in the Spring.

chef preparing a delicious gourmet dish at a restaurant in Washington DC

Did you know that DC is also acknowledged among locals for the plethora of restaurants that represent a wide variety of cultures and flavors? 

Many people are drawn to the Washington, D.C., area, to embark on a foodie journey, and you will not be disappointed if you do the same! Many are even calling it the food Capital of the country, if not certainly for the Mid Atlantic area.

Award Winning Chefs and Michelin Star restaurants have a home here, and everyone is guaranteed to find something they love. 

Here you will find the very best restaurants in Washington D.C.area. Check out my list below!


Pineapple & Pearls

715 8th St SE, Washington, DC 20003
Phone: 202-595-7375
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Pineapple & Pearls is located in Barracks Row in Washington, D.C., in the Capitol Hill neighborhood.

From the moment you step foot into Pineapple & Pearls and emerge into the dining room after passing through thick and luxurious curtains, it will be very clear to you that you are about to embark on one of the best dining experiences you will ever have.

Unable to accept walk-ins, Pineapple & Pearls pays the utmost attention to each diner, including sending them home with a beautifully printed menu for what they enjoyed the evening they were in attendance if engaging in the Chef’s Tasting Menu.

The attention to detail at Pineapple & Pearls is second to none, with everything from the garnishes put on food to the tableware. Of course, the Chef’s Tasting Menu is exceptional, and highly recommended. 


Minibar

855 E St NW, Washington, DC 20004
Phone: 202-393-0812
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Minibar by José Andrés is a well known establishment in Washington, D.C. With seating available for only 12 guests per seating, reservations are required at this upscale restaurant located close to the National Portrait Gallery. Minibar is a two Michelin-Starred restaurant that celebrates elegance in exquisite bites. 

José Andrés has received many accolades internationally, including receiving James Beard awards for not only “Outstanding Chef” but for “Humanitarian of the Year” as well. Recognized by Time Magazine twice for being named as one of the Top 100 people of both 2012 and 2018.

José Andrés is also a published author, and his book, We Fed an Island: The True Story of Rebuilding Puerto Rico, One Meal at a Time. 


Masseria 

1340 4th St NE, Washington, District of Columbia 20002
Phone: 202-608-1330
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Tucked into the Ivy City area of Washington, D.C., Masseria is an Italian restaurant that will provide an exceptional dining experience. 

A concept by Chef Nicholas Stefanelli, Masseria is an upscale, beautifully decorated Italian restaurant that serves delicious food in an exquisite setting. Masseria has received a Michelin Star and is perfect for a night out.

With a Pergola dining offered, this space has a retractable roof which can allow guests to enjoy open air dining when the weather is warm.

While the menu changes, the risotto is an outstanding choice if offered. The tortellini, when offered, is the best in the District. Masseria was known for their Chef’s counter experience, and is highly recommended. 


Seven Reasons

2208 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
Phone: 202-417-8563
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Seven Reasons, located on bustling 14th Street in Washington, D.C., serves up Latin American dishes, including a chef’s tasting menu in a beautiful and open restaurant. 

Seven Reasons is such a well loved restaurant in Washington, D.C., to say it has been making waves since opening might be the understatement of the year.

With the opening of Seven Reasons, Chef and Co-Owner Chef Enrique Limardo caught the attention of Esquire Magazine. T

hey named Seven Reasons as the Best New Restaurant in America in 2019. That same year, they also received nods from The Washington Post, being recognized as the number one restaurant in their Fall Dining Guide. 


Rose’s Luxury

717 8th St SE, Washington, DC 20003
Phone: 202-742-3570
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Rose’s Luxury is a cozy restaurant, renovated from a large townhouse in Barracks Row in Washington, D.C. 

From the same restaurant group that has brought Washington, D.C. Pineapple & Pearls and Little Pearl, Rose’s Luxury certainly holds its own alongside its sister restaurants.

The menu is as fun and edgy as the team at Rose’s Luxury themselves. They have recently launched their “Choose Your Own Adventure” menu, highlighting some of the restaurant’s biggest hit items, including their famed lychee salad.

Rose’s Luxury also holds Goodwill at the core of their service, donating a portion of every meal to a nonprofit organization. 


The Dabney

122 Blagden Alley NW, Washington, DC 20001
Phone: 202-450-1015
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The Dabney has mastered the art of enjoying food in this beautifully decorated, rustic restaurant in Blagden Alley in the Shaw area of Washington, D.C. 

The Dabney is unpretentious, warm, and the food is absolutely astounding. Their ingredients are fresh, locally sourced, and sustainable.

Chef Jeremiah Langhorne gives diners an out of the world experience at The Dabney. The Dabney has earned a Michelin Star, and has received acknowledgement from Bon Appétit magazine, being recognized as a Best New Restaurant in 2016. Chef Jeremiah Langhorne has also earned the prestigious James Beard Award for Best Chef in the Mid-Atlantic region in 2018. 


Albi

1346 4th St SE, Washington, DC 20003
Phone: 202-921-9592
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The ultra trendy, Middle Eastern restaurant is situated in the Navy Yard neighborhood of Washington, D.C. 

Albi is a light filled and beautiful restaurant, and means “heart” in Arabic. This debut restaurant is led and owned by Chef Michael Rafidi, who was recently recognized by the James Beard Foundation and is a nominee for the award of Mid Atlantic Best Chef.

This comes as no surprise to Washingtonians who make Albi a part of their restaurant rotation. The Chef’s Table at the Hearth is an incredible experience that true foodies must try.

The menu at Albi is always changing, though the hummus is a consistent star of the show. A bonus? Albi accepts walk-ins for their bar service! 


Gravitas

1401 Okie St NE, Washington, DC 20002
Phone: 202-763-7942
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Serving delicious and locally sourced fare, Gravitas is located in the heart of Ivy City in Washington, D.C. 

This modern American restaurant serves up one of the best Chef’s Tasting Menus in the District. Gravitas has been such a sensational hit.

Chef Matt Baker held the fort down at Gravitas with his team throughout the pandemic, providing intricate at-home meals for diners from Gravitas.

Since reopening, the rooftop at Gravitas, The Conservatory, has been a smash hit with Washingtonians. Keep an eye out for Chef Matt Baker’s latest ventures, including a new French American dining experience, Michele. 


L’Auberge Chez Francois

332 Springvale Rd, Great Falls, VA 22066
Phone: 703-759-3800
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L’Auberge Chez Francois is located in Great Falls, Virginia, a short and scenic drive from Washington, D.C. 

L’Auberge Chez Francois is the premier French restaurant in the Washington, D.C., area, and is as elegant as any restaurant you would find in Paris, all in a farmhouse setting.

Led by Chef Jaques, one of the country’s most respected and innovative chefs, L’Auberge Chez Francois is the most authentic French restaurant you will find in the District, if not the Mid-Atlantic.

If you have hesitation about that statement, order their Burgundy Escargot, served in shell, and then you will be a believer. L’Auberge Chez Francois has received countless accolades throughout the years, and they are all supremely deserved. 


Compass Rose

1346 T St NW, Washington, DC 20009
Phone: 202-506-4765
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Located close to the U Street area of Washington, D.C., Compass Rose is tucked into a rowhouse, offering private dining and an eccentric patio featuring whimsical decor. 

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Their menu is globally inspired, served small plates style, ideal for sharing. The patio gives diners a Moroccan feel, donned with colorful accents and comfortable pillows.

The menu serves food that the restaurant promises will transport you to new destinations. Their menu changes regularly, though we love the Octopus Salad that is reminiscent of Portugal and the Khachapuri, inspired from Georgia. Reservations are highly recommended due to their popularity. 


Imperfecto

1124 23rd St NW, Washington, DC 20037
Phone: 202-964-1012
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Nestled into the West End area of Washington, D.C., Imperfecto is a sophisticated restaurant led by Chef Enrique Limardo. 

The tagline for Imperfecto is “we strive for perfection, but we will never achieve it. We don’t want to. We will be Imperfecto.”

Imperfecto has recently started Brunch service, which has already been dubbed as one of the best in D.C., and their dinner is delicious and focused on sustainability.

The ten course Chef’s Table menu is the star of the show, and favored amongst diners at Imperfecto.

The reputation of Imperfecto has gained rapid popularity, including enticing President Joe Biden to take in a meal there. 


Kinship

1015 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20001
Phone: 202-737-7700
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Kinship, a New American restaurant, brings its elegance to the Mount Vernon Square area of Washington, D.C., across from the Washington Convention Center. 

Kinship is a Michelin Star rated restaurant where the emphasis is on seamless service to make your meal while gathering with loved ones a stand out experience.

Kinship is beautifully decorated and features many dining options, including private dining in a number of rooms.

Their fireplace lounge is especially classic and attractive. The menus at Kinship are indulgent, and feature beautiful items including Osetra Caviar and Spiced Bluefin Tuna. 


BlackSalt

4883 MacArthur Blvd NW, Washington, DC 20007
Phone: 202-342-9101
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Located in the Palisades area of Washington, D.C. BlackSalt is a must try seafood restaurant

BlackSalt is an upscale tavern serving up some of the highest quality seafood you will be able to find in the Washington, D.C., area.

With a focus on sustainability, BlackSalt curates their menu to provide the freshest seafood available.

You cannot go wrong with any of their fish options as your main course. Their sommelier is skilled at food and wine pairings, and all of their staff are knowledgeable and talented, as well!

BlackSalt is the place to bring out of town family and friends to dine at in the Washington, D.C., area. Before you leave, make sure you check out the BlackSalt market, attached to the restaurant.


La Fromagerie 

1222 King St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: 703-879-2467
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La Fromagerie is a warm and welcoming cafe located in the Old Town, Alexandria area in Northern Virginia of Washington, D.C. 

Offering primarily small plates and artisanal cheeses, La Fromagerie’s Chef is from Lyon, France, and certainly exhibits his expertise in creating exquisite dishes for diners.

In addition to delicious and authentic dishes, including Foie Gras Terrine, for instance, La Fromagerie has wine offerings that in of themself are reason to visit.

They offer a monthly Terroir menu, and allow guests to choose wines from their market to enjoy with dinner. 


Reverie

3201 Cherry Hill Ln, Washington, DC 20007
Phone: 202-808-2952
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Reverie is located in the heart of the Georgetown area in Washington, D.C. Offering elevated American cuisine, it is a must visit.

In 2018, when Chef Johnny Spero opened Reverie, it was an instantaneous hit. Reverie features a Chef’s Counter experience that is highly recommended.

The food at Reverie is delicious, authentic, beautifully presented, and unique. Their menu is described as bold, surprising, and playful, and highlights the freshest ingredients. The restaurant itself is beautiful, and has a covered garden patio. 


Restaurant Chloe 

1331 4th St SE, Washington, DC 20003
Phone: 202-313-7007
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Located in the heart of Navy Yard, in Washington, D.C., Chloe has already drawn well known guests, including Vice President Kamala Harris. 

When Chef Haidar Karoum opened Chloe, it was named not only after his niece, but a nod to the Greek Goddess of Agriculture as well.

With Chloe receiving a Michelin Bib Gourmand in 2021, it has never been a better time to visit.

The restaurant is unpretentious, and represents the hard work and dedication behind every delicious meal. The menu is globally inspired, and has something for all diners.

Chef Haidar Karoum has received a plethora of accolades throughout his culinary career in Washington, D.C., including being a finalist in the RAMMY awards several times for awards including ‘Best New Chef.’ 


Central Michel Richard

1001 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004
Phone: 202-626-0015
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Central Michel Richard is centrally located in Washington, D.C., and is in close proximity to the National Gallery of Art as well as historic sights including Ford’s Theatre. 

Led by none other than James Beard Award Winning Chef Michel Richard, this American Bistro offers French inspired cuisine with a flair!

Offering an extensive selection of wine as well as a delicious variety of menu options, Central Michel Richard is a wonderful place to partake in private dining as well as with a group in their dining room.

The menu features many shareable plates and unique entrees, solidifying its place in Washington, D.C., as a top French restaurant. 


Lapis 

1847 Columbia Rd NW, Washington, DC 20009
Phone: 202-299-9630
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Lapis is an establishment in the Adam’s Morgan area of Washington, D.C., serving authentic Afghan cuisine. 

Lapis has a homey charm, and is beautifully decorated with lavish rugs and unique furnishings. Lapis is a family owned and operated restaurant that has used family recipes since opening.

A restaurant that is entirely Halal, their modern Afghan menus are exceptional and each one is cooked fresh with a focus on sustainability. In addition to serving dishes such as Bolani and Sabzi all day, Lapis offers a brunch option for Saturdays and Sundays. 


Pappe DC

1317 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20005
Phone: 202-888-8220
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Are you looking for a fantastic Indian Restaurant in the Logan Circle area this weekend? Pappe DC is an exquisite marriage of fantastic food and excellent service. 

Decorated with a flourish of colorful fabrics and whimsical decor, Pappe DC is colorful, bright, and fun. Their food and cocktails are mouthwatering.

Their small plates are unique and perfect to share with friends. You cannot miss their Vegetable Samosas, Prawn Ambi, and Crab Pav.

While they offer signature classics including Tandoori Chicken, consider trying unique dishes including the Fish Chettinad. Pappe DC offers indoor and outdoor dining in a comfortable setting. 


Punjab Grill

427 11th St NW, Washington, DC 20004
Phone: 202-813-3004
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Located in downtown D.C. close to Ford’s Theater, Punjab Grill is an incredible, well known Indian restaurant. They are often referred to as one of the fanciest Indian restaurants in D.C. 

The vibe and atmosphere at Punjab Grill is upscale and ideal for a dinner date. Ordering Indian food from Punjab is as entertaining as it is delicious.

They are known for their vegetarian and vegan dishes that are consistently mistaken for meat filled. The Vegan “Goat” Biryani is made with jackfruit, and the naan parda is opened tableside with a flourish.


Tiger Fork

922 N St. NW, Blagden Alley NW, Washington, DC 20001
Phone: 202-733-1152
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Located in Blagden Alley, Tiger Fork joins some other favorite restaurants in this not-so-hidden culinary gem of an area in Washington, D.C. 

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The decor at Tiger Fork has been beautifully thought out with a striking red interior, and features bamboo and elaborate artwork throughout the restaurant. Featuring their take on street food from Hong Kong, they are well known in the District for their classic Chinese dishes.

Your best move at Tiger Fork is to order a number of dishes and share with your group. While their menu changes regularly, be sure to order their Spicy Sesame Noodles if it is offered.

Make sure you save room for dessert, as well! Their Bubble Waffle is an insanely oversized ice cream sundae that will have your Instagram followers in awe!


Cranes

724 9th St NW, Washington, DC 20001
Phone:202-525-4900
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Located in the Galleryplace Chinatown area of Washington, D.C., Cranes is steps away from the National Portrait Gallery. 

Cranes is a modern restaurant that serves Spanish tapas and Japanese cuisine. Chef Pepe Moncaya brings his take on the similarities in dishes and preparation techniques with Spain and Japan.

This sleek and spacious restaurant offers seasonal tapas based on seasonality. They also offer an extensive selection of sake. Their Omakase menu is something all food lovers should experience. 


BarMini by José Andrés

501 9th St NW, Washington, DC 20004
Phone: 202-393-4451
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Located in the Penn Quarter area of Washington, D.C., BarMini by José Andrés is within walking distance of the National Portrait Gallery and the National Gallery of Art. 

As one of the restaurants by none other than Humanitarian and Superstar Chef José Andrés, Barmini is an upscale cocktail lab located close to Minibar by José Andrés.

This is by far the most beautiful bar in Washington, D.C., and a must visit for the most special occasions.

Reservations are highly recommended, as seating is limited and an experience at Barmini is highly coveted. I recommend the Cocktail Flights, and letting the bar team choose the drinks you receive. 


Nobu 

2525 M St NW, Washington, DC 20037
Phone: 202-871-6565
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With locations across the globe, Nobu brings their renowned luxury sushi experience to the West End in Washington, D.C. 

Nobu is an upscale sushi restaurant that is perfect for a date night. The Black Cod Lettuce wrap is absolutely a snack not to miss, along with their Shrimp Spicy Garlic, one of my favorite for their hot dishes. The Bluefin Toro Nigiri is my favorite, as well. 


DC Corazon 

3903-3905 14th St NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20011
Phone: 202-481-0511
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DC Corazon is a Woman owned, Mexican restaurant located in the Petworth area of Washington, D.C. 

You truly will not be able to find a more decorative and colorful restaurant in the Washington, D.C., area.

Their food is outstanding, and if you are looking to bring out of town guests to a restaurant in D.C. that will impress, this is the place.

Josefina, the owner, has shared her Grandmother’s recipes that they cooked together in Mexico City. What to try on the menu? Anything with their authentic Mole sauce. Be sure to also get tacos to share. 


Peking Inn Gourmet

6029 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041
Phone: 703-671-8088
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Peking Gourmet is located in the Falls Church area of Northern Virginia of Washington, D.C. 

As an upscale Chinese restaurant, Peking Gourmet has been open for business since the late 70’s. A family owned restaurant, they also have a farm in Virginia where they cultivate the freshest ingredients to serve to diners.

Of course, the Peking Duck is an absolute favorite, and always has been at this beloved restaurant. You cannot miss the walls of Peking Gourmet Inn lined with photographs of famous guests – from the stars to former presidents.

Part of the dining experience at this Washington, D.C. area restaurant is to spot as many celebrities that have dined at Peking Gourmet before you. 


Duke’s Grocery 

1513 17th St NW, Washington, DC 20036
Phone: 202-733-5623
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With several locations around Washington, D.C., Duke’s Grocery is well loved in the Dupont Circle, Woodley Park, and Foggy Bottom areas in Washington, D.C. 

Duke’s Grocery is a casual dining restaurant that hits it out of the park in every area. The team and ambiance at Duke’s Grocery is unpretentious and approachable, and their food is spectacular.

Of course, no visit to Duke’s Grocery is complete without ordering the Proper Burger! Do yourself a favor and order the Mac and Cheese as your side.

The burger at Duke’s Grocery is so well known, they have received recognition for having the best burger in D.C. by multiple media outlets.


Maydan

1346 Florida Ave NW, Washington, DC 20009
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Maydan, located close to the popular 14th Street area, is one of the most popular restaurants in Washington, D.C.

Named one of the best new restaurants in America by Bob Appetit Magazine in 2018, Maydan entered Washington, D.C., with a bang, and it has hardly slowed down.

Reservations have consistently been tough to score, resulting in Maydan being one of the only restaurants in Washington, D.C., where hopeful diners will wait in line around the block in hopes to get in.

It is worth every second of standing around waiting. Their Tawle menu, which includes an abundance of food to share for the table, is their most popular option. Their a la carte menu is also available, allowing patrons to choose their own meals. 


Laos in Town

250 K St NE, Washington, DC 20002
Phone: 202-864-6620
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Located near NoMa in Washington, D.C., Laos in Town is a restaurant that hits it out of the park, in every category. 

Laos in Town serves unbelievably delicious Lao Food in an upscale casual setting. The inside of the restaurant is decorated beautifully, and is reminiscent of street vendors in Laos, which inspired the owner.

You cannot visit Lao in Town without trying their Grilled Whole Fish. The sauce in the Mekong Clams is so good, we wish it could be bottled up.

The service, setting, and food is all exceptional at Laos in Town. It comes as no surprise that this Washington, D.C., restaurant received a 2020 Michelin Bib Gourmand. The emphasis on customer service is always highlighted. 


Ruthie’s All Day

3411 5th St S, Arlington, VA 22204
Phone: 703-888-2841
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Ruthie’s All Day is located in the Arlington, Virginia area of Washington, D.C. 

Highly recommended for their food and outdoor dining experience, Ruthie’s All Day is a family owned and operated restaurant. The interior of the restaurant is light filled from their open floor plan and large windows.

Their Chef, Matt Hill, has recently been recognized as a nominee of the James Beard Foundation for Best Chef, Mid Atlantic. Offering breakfast daily, they also serve innovative menu items for lunch, brunch, and dinner.

Ruthie’s All Day has captured the consistent attention of Washington Post Writer Tom Sietsema. What began as his meal over a holiday weekend has extended to a virtual love fest between Tom and Ruthie’s, and we love to see it! 


Yume Sushi 

2121 N Westmoreland St A-2, Arlington, VA 22213
Phone: 703-269-5064
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Located in the Falls Church area of Northern Virginia, Yume Sushi is arguably the best sushi restaurant in the Arlington, Virginia, area. 

With a vibe that can only be described as “upscale inviting”, Yume Sushi is absolutely a diner’s dream – in fact, the word Yume means “dream” in Japanese.

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Their ingredients are some of the freshest you will ever have, and when each plate is presented, the servers provide not only a bit of information behind the inspiration, but discuss the region the ingredients originate from.

For instance, the Live Scallops are from Japan, and are often served within hours of arriving at the restaurant. I strongly recommend the Omakase experience – this translates to “I shall leave it up to you” – and allow their supremely talented Executive Chef Saran to cultivate the perfect meal for you. 


Officina 

1120 Maine Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024
Phone: 202-747-5222
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Officina is located in the Wharf in Washington, D.C., and is the second restaurant by Chef Nicholas Stefanelli on our list of best Italian restaurants.

There is a smaller Officina location in Georgetown, and another location is slated to open up soon in the downtown area of Washington, D.C. 

Chef Nicholas Stefanelli brings his Puglia childhood experiences to life with the decor and recipes at Officina. Our pick for dining at Officina? Their Terrazza, a glorious rooftop oasis inspired by outdoor dining in Italy.

While you are dining at Officina, do not forget to stop by their market and pick up some fresh pasta from their Mercato, the authentic Italian market, which is attached. 


Equinox Restaurant 

818 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20006
Phone: 202-331-8118
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Equinox Restaurant is located in Downtown, Washington, D.C., near McPherson Square.

Equinox Restaurant is a family owned and operated upscale dining restaurant. The cuisine is innovative, and they are dedicated to providing a plant forward menu to diners.

The offerings are based on seasonal flavors, and this contributes toward a goal of Equinox, which is sustainability. 

Equinox has received many accolades including the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence and has been Zagat rated. They have also received 5 nominations for the James Beard Foundation for best Mid-Atlantic Chef. 


Jônt

1904 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
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Jônt, a Two Michelin Starred restaurant, is located near the U Street Cardozo metro in Washington, D.C.

Jônt is an elegant, upscale restaurant led by young and innovative chefs, and owned by Chef Ryan Ratino.

Their tasting menu is one of the best in Washington, D.C., featuring 16 course with preparations from all over the world.

With only 14 seats in Jônt, reservations are required. The focus of service is on each diner, ensuring full satisfaction is achieved. The top shelf ingredients used by Jônt ensure a phenomenal dining experience for every season. 


Sushi Taro 

1503 17th St NW, Washington, DC 20036
Phone: 202-462-8999
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Sushi Taro is by far the most exquisite dining experience for sushi you will find in the District, located in Dupont Circle. 

As an upscale Sushi restaurant, you have the opportunity to enjoy a tasting menu, or order sushi a la carte.

While their Omakase chef’s counter experience has currently been put on hold, the famed restaurant now offers an Omakase at home experience.

The service is wonderful at Sushi Taro, and when dining, I suggest that you rely on your server to provide you with sushi recommendations. Sushi Taro has received a plethora of accolades, and they are all well deserved.

In addition to being a Michelin Star restaurant, they have been featured in “best of” restaurant lists on a number of outlets including Forbes. 


Trattoria Alberto 

508 8th St SE, Washington, DC 20003
Phone: 202-544-2007
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Described as a “Capitol Hill tradition for the last 30 years”, Trattoria Alberto is probably one of the most authentic Italian restaurants in the Washington, D.C. area. 

Reminiscent of walking into a restaurant in Italy, you will be struck by the quaint decor and charming outside dining area.

Considered fine dining, the owners and some of the staff will often speak in boisterous Italian as they welcome you into this warm and inviting restaurant.

All of their menu items are freshly prepared. They will often tell you that they will make anything “even if it is not on the menu.”

The Linguine alle Vongole (linguine with clams) is such a hit that it is difficult to resist ordering it each time. 


Rasika 

633 D St NW, Washington, DC 20004
Phone: 202-637-1222
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Rasika is an upscale Indian restaurant that is perfect for a date or night out with friends. Their Penn Quarter location is quite close to museums such as the National Portrait Gallery,and serves as an obvious choice for dinner after such cultural activities.

Do not miss their Palak Chaat. They have also recently started selling their homemade sauces in jars to take home! 

Rasika is well known not only for its delicious meals but also for their chef winning the 2013 James Beard for best Chef in the Mid-Atlantic Region.

They have also received many accolades for outstanding Indian Restaurant by The Washington Post for multiple years. A reservation is usually required for dining. 


Nina May 

1337 11th St NW, Washington, DC 20001
Phone: 202-518-3609
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Located in the Shaw area of Washington, D.C.,, Nina May is a warm eatery with American cuisine. 

With decor that is rustic and warm, Nina May is welcoming and serves fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients for incredible meals.

Co-owned by Executive Chef Colin McClimans and General Manager Danilo Simic, the restaurant is named after their daughters.

Featuring delicious food and a strong cocktail program, Nina May is the perfect choice for dinner or brunch in Washington, D.C. Each meal offers diners the opportunity to enjoy the Chef’s Choice menu, which is recommended. 


Jaleo 

480 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20004
Phone: 202-628-7949
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An absolute favorite of many Washingtonians, Jaleo by Chef and humanitarian José Andrés is located in the Gallery Place Chinatown area of Washington, D.C. 

Jaleo brings alive the spirit and flavors of Spain by showcasing the rich regional diversity of Spanish cuisine.

Celebrating the traditional as well as the cutting-edge, Jaleo offers a taste of Spain in a festive, stylish, and casual atmosphere.

You are sure to be in for a treat with your private dining experience at Jaleo with their delicious bites and excellent service. 


Ala

1320 19th St NW, Washington, DC 20036
Phone: 202-717-1166
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Looking for one of the best restaurants in the heart of Dupont Circle area of Washington, D.C.?

Ala offers Levantine cuisine and is steps away from the metro. You will be struck by their exceptional customer service as well as their delicious weekend midday meal offerings.

Ala has crafted brunch cocktails and food that speaks to what they hope to encourage; beautiful colors and community.

Sharing plates is recommended here, and with their menu, you will want to try a little bit of everything.

You can find many dips and other foods traditional to the Levantine region, as well as a wonderful wine selection. 


Et! Viola

5120 MacArthur Blvd NW, Washington, DC 20016
Phone: 202-237-2300
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Et Viola ! is a Belgium-French bistro in the heart of the Palisides area of Washington, D.C. 

This is a neighborhood favorite thanks to the authenticity of the Belgium and French dishes Et Viola ! has to offer.

They are upscale casual, offering both inside and outside seating. Each of the chefs at Et Viola ! are from Belgium, and have worked in well known restaurants across Europe.

Chef Alex Malaise has worked in two and three Michelin Star restaurants across Europe, and Chef Claudio Parollo has worked as a personal chef for an Irish Ambassador. 


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Written by Brian Nagele

Brian attended West Virginia University, then started his career in the IT industry before following his passion for marketing and hospitality. He has over 20 years experience in the restaurant and bar industry.

As a former restaurant owner, he knows about running a food business and loves to eat and enjoy cocktails on a regular basis. He constantly travels to new cities tasting and reviewing the most popular spots.

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