16 Best Restaurants in D.C.

If you’re a fan of American classics, you have to check out Ben’s Chili Bowl while you’re in D.C. Founded in 1958, the historic eatery is located next to Lincoln Theatre in the U Street Corridor. 

The restaurant has thousands of rave reviews and has been frequented by Barack Obama and Bruno Mars, to name a couple. The iconic destination is known for its legendary half smokes, chili-cheese fries, and milkshakes. The banana pudding is a major hit as well — if you still have room left over, that is.

Have a hankering for warm, savory Mediterranean food? Zaytinya by José Andrés is a hit among locals and tourists in D.C. The restaurant is the winner of the Travelers’ Choice award. It’s a short 2-minute walk from the Smithsonian American Art Museum if you’re in the neighborhood. 

Be sure to stop by on the weekend for their famous boozy “RoZAY Brunch,” featuring three rosés and four courses of mezze with dessert for the whole table. Their featured dinner menu can get a bit pricey, but their lunch menu offers a variety of “pides” (or Mediterranean flatbreads).

The Old Ebbitt Grill is truly a classic — one of the best restaurants in D.C. Although it’s been uprooted several times, it’s the oldest saloon in Washington and has been frequented by travelers and Washington residents since way back in 1856. 

The thousands of reviews speak for themselves, but it wouldn’t be a trip to D.C. without trying the grill’s traditional American cuisine for yourself! To experience their great food, historic atmosphere, and top-notch service, stop by for breakfast or before they close at 2 AM the next day. Popular menu picks include the New England Clam Chowder, Fried Oyster Platter, and the Cheeseburger.

Feeling adventurous? Then it would be a mistake not to stop by Ambar Capitol Hill while you’re in the neighborhood. If you’ve never tried Balkan cuisine, it’s what you get when European food meets Western Asian cuisine. The Michelin star restaurant is known for its unlimited brunch, lunch, and dinner menu where you can order plate after plate of decadent, savory tapas-style bites. 

Are you having a business meeting, a social lunch, or simply dining with family and friends? Then ask about the group dining rate for savings for the whole table. Guests rave about the Balkan Salad, Cheese Pie, Drunken Mussels, and the Truffle Sourdough Bites with jam.

Delicious American cuisine is delivered by chef Eric Brennon at one of the best restaurants in D.C., Ted’s Bulletin. The home-style diner has a heartfelt concept behind it, as it’s dedicated to the owner’s dad, Ted Neal. They quickly built a name for themselves in 2011, thanks to their famous homemade Pop Tarts and spiked milkshakes. 

Locals also love that the restaurant switches up some of the menu items with the change of the season. In the cooler months, you can enjoy specialty dishes like Apple Spiced Pancakes or Homestyle Meatloaf, with the Spiced S’mores Sundae for dessert. Other classics like their Country Fried Chicken and Reuben, stick around year-round. When the mood strikes for an ice-cold beverage, make sure to grab a seat at the bar for Happy Hour. You can also order a variety of discounted appies to share, like the FedWings Smoked Wings and Fried Pickles.

If you’re visiting Ford’s Theatre, Pi Pizzeria is a hidden gem tucked away right around the corner. Their award-winning restaurant has been named best pizza by Thrillest, Trip Advisor, Riverfront Times, and many more. While there’s no doubt that D.C. residents come for the cheesy, saucy goodness, they stay for the great atmosphere and top-notch service.

The Italian American hotspot has something for everyone, including vegetarian-friendly and vegan options. Their signature dish is the Chicago Style Pizza, featuring toppings under the flavorful marinara sauce. And don’t even think about paying them a visit without asking for a side of their famous garlic knots!

Commissary is Logan Circle’s go-to brunch spot. The cafe serves delicious Huevos Rancheros and Pancake Platters that pair nicely with a steady flow of mimosas. In the later hours, they have an extensive Happy Hour menu, with a variety of cocktails, wines, and beer available every day of the week. But Happy Hour wouldn’t be complete without ordering several discounted appies and small plates for the table to share. Did somebody say Crispy Cauliflower Tacos or Truffled Fries? If you plan on grabbing a bite for dinner, then the Signature Burger and Sesame Ginger Chicken Lettuce Wraps should be at the top of your list to try!

A hidden gem tucked away in Penn Quarter, Rasika is undoubtedly one of the top restaurants in D.C. The Indian fusion restaurant is known for its incredible ambiance, world-class dishes, and rich flavors of varying intensities. 

With a unique twist on traditional Indian cuisine, Executive Chef Vikram Sunderam is no stranger to receiving rave reviews from tourists and travelers from all over the world. Their unique and flavorful menu offers high-end, modern dishes at surprisingly great prices. When in doubt, opt for a plate of their signature Chicken Tikka Masala with a side of the Palak Chaat.

This is a top restaurant in D.C. for anyone looking for healthy, organic food. As you might have guessed from the name, NuVegan Cafe (formerly known as Woodland’s Vegan Bistro) serves 100% vegan eats. Bringing you soul food in a laidback atmosphere, it’s no wonder this family-owned business is making waves in Washington, D.C. 

The cafeteria line-style restaurant offers healthy pressed juices, salads, and meatless entrees. Not sure what to order? Ask for the mac & cheese with a side of sweet kale salad. If you have a sweet tooth, the jumbo cinnamon rolls are a must-try! Who knew natural food could taste this good?

In the mood for some delicious all-you-can-eat Eastern Mediterranean cuisine? Then ask for a reservation on ‘Mezza Mondays’ to take advantage of Lebanese Taverna’s bottomless mezza menu. On any other day of the week, their full-service menu is in effect with all of the classics. Complimentary fresh bread is delivered right to your table, along with a side of garlic or spicy hommus. Their signature dish is the Taverna Platter — complete with hommus, fattoush, rice, and your choice of chicken shawarma, shawarma, or falafel. They have plenty of other vegetarian-friendly and vegan options as well. Wash it all down with a glass from their vast selection of Lebanese wines, beer, or “crafted” cocktails.

Calling all comfort food lovers! GCDC Grilled Cheese Bar should be first on your list of top restaurants in D.C. to try. The bar is run by the duo, Bruce Klores and his son Steven, who you can tell put their heart and soul into the food.

Just a half block from the White House, this hotspot is always packed for good reason. They get fresh bread delivered daily, use locally sourced pastrami, and serve beer from neighborhood craft breweries. They’ve even been featured on The Cooking Channel’s Offbeat Eats. Grab a grilled cheese, mac ‘n’ cheese, or quesadillas made-to-order — or get creative and build your own! Throw in some truffle oil, caramelized onions, or pesto that’s made in-house.

Can’t decide on just one cuisine? Compass Rose boasts an eclectic menu with dishes inspired from all over the world. You’ll find a wide variety of international street foods in this beautiful townhouse eatery. You can splurge $52 per person and order the “Tour of the World,” but they also have plenty of affordable dishes a la carte. We recommend ordering entrees to share around the table, so you can sample a variety of flavors. Where else can you find aguachile, curried lamb, Tunisian chicken, and grilled duck hearts all in one place?

Chaia ain’t your average Mexican taco joint. It’s a rather unconventional shop, serving “farm to taco” tacos made with nothing but vegetables. Despite their healthy twist, they’re by far some of the best you’ll ever try! 

Founders Jennifer Meltzer and Edward Reavis pride themselves on their small and simple menu, with up to six taco creations that you can choose from at one time. They also have other vegetarian-friendly options like enchiladas, quesadillas tostadas, and cheesy nachos. On tap, choose from Elderberry Kombucha, Iced Hibiscus Tea, or the Chaia Margarita to wet your whistle.

Nothing beats a great atmosphere, an extensive wine and cocktail list, and a table full of delicious Spanish tapas meant for sharing. Estadio delivers all of that and more! 

The intimate venue is always packed, but it’s well worth the wait. Make sure you come thirsty and ask for one of their famous spiked frozen slushies or “Slushitos.” As for food, the Patatas Bravas, Grilled Hangar Steak, and the Little Pork Belly Sandwich with Pickled Shishito Aioli are always great choices! For dessert, the Churros are not to be missed!

Donburi is a staple among D.C. diners. You can either sit down or take your food to go, but their relaxed atmosphere and welcoming service make for a great date night spot! 

It’s not hard to see why it’s one of the best restaurants in D.C. — it’s often packed to the brim, with delicious Japanese comfort food at a steal of a price. Once you get inside, take your pick from their selection of rice bowls with fried pork, tempura shrimp, or fresh sashimi as you sip on a hot cup of rice tea. If you’re on the fence, the Curry Katsudon is always a hit! No matter what you order, the meat and rice are cooked to perfection, the presentation is impeccable, and you get a great bang for your buck.

From food bars and taco shops to Michelin star sit-down restaurants, these top restaurants in D.C. are shaking up the food scene. Be sure to find your favorites and add them to your must-eat bucket list for your next trip. 

If you’re looking for an affordable place to stay while you’re in town, Red Roof is the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Our job is to help you sleep well and save on accommodation while you sightsee and taste all of the best restaurants in D.C. Book your stay today!

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