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What to Eat in Washington, D.C.
As the epicenter for American politics and nonprofits, too, Washington, D.C., attracts a diverse clientele – and the restaurant scene reflects this melting pot of ethnicities and cultures. Wander the streets of Georgetown, Dupont Circle and the U Street Corridor and you'll find plenty of interesting eateries, from white tablecloth restaurants to trendy tapas joints plating everything from zesty Spanish bites to succulent oyster shooters. Additionally, a strip of ethnic restaurants on H Street Northeast in the Atlas District offer Belgian fare, Japanese cuisine and more. For a crash course in the city's varied dining scene, consider booking a guided tour. And for slow sips at one of the capital's swanky cocktail bars, head over to the U Street Corridor of 14th Street, where lively and laid-back bars lure college students, young professionals and visitors.
The city also appeals to gourmands who revel in haute cuisine. For a sophisticated meal at a high-end restaurant, try José Andrés' collection of restaurants, including Zaytinya, Oyamel Cocina Mexicana and minibar by José Andrés. For a traditional taste of D.C., make reservations at tried and true spots like Old Ebbitt Grill and 1789.
For more budget-minded options, grab a stool at the D.C. institution Ben's Chili Bowl, located right next to the U Street Metro stop. Good Stuff Eatery – a premier burger spot spearheaded by chef Spike Mendelsohn – is ideal for creamy milkshakes and flavorful patties topped with interesting toppings like chili and Thai basil. Good Stuff Eatery features locations in Capitol Hill Southeast and Georgetown.
Farmers markets have also become a major staple in the District. On any given Saturday or Sunday, you'll find Washingtonians perusing the stalls for healthy and organic fruits and veggies at colorful markets. Local favorites include FRESHFARM's market in Dupont Circle, Eastern Market, Union Market and the Columbia Heights Farmers Market. At these bustling markets, you can pick up everything from pickles to sweet peaches to buttery pastries, among other items. Breweries and brewpubs have become a popular mainstay in D.C., too, and a trip to the nation's capital isn't complete without enjoying one of the best brunches the city has to offer.
Find the Best Restaurants in Washington, D.C.
- #1
Ambar Capitol Hill#1 of 3,437 Places to Eat in Washington DC
$ - $$ | Eastern European523 8th St SE, Washington DC, DC 20003-2835Read More » - #2
Bistro Aracosia#2 of 3,437 Places to Eat in Washington DC
$ - $$ | Afghani5100 MacArthur Blvd NW, Washington DC, DC 20016-3316Read More » - #3
Barmini#3 of 3,437 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #4
Quill#4 of 3,437 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #5
Joe's Seafood Prime Steak & Stone Crab#5 of 3,437 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #6
Lafayette Restaurant#6 of 3,437 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #7
Keren Restaurant#7 of 3,437 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #8
Kinship Restaurant#8 of 3,437 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #9
Doyle (Bar)#9 of 3,437 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #10
Rasika#10 of 3,437 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #11
Commissary#11 of 3,437 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #12
Rose's Luxury#12 of 3,437 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #13
The Capital Grille#13 of 3,437 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #14
The Dabney#14 of 3,437 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #15
HipCityVeg#15 of 3,437 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #16
Whiskey Charlie#16 of 3,437 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #17
Tortino Restaurant#17 of 3,437 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #18
Zaytinya#18 of 3,437 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #19
Fiola#19 of 3,437 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #20
Old Ebbitt Grill#20 of 3,437 Places to Eat in Washington DC
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