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What to Eat in Washington, D.C.
As the epicenter for American politics and nonprofits, Washington, D.C., attracts a diverse clientele – and the restaurant scene reflects this melting pot of ethnicities and cultures. Wander the streets of Georgetown and Dupont Circle 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. Or, head to the U Street Corridor or Florida Avenue, where you'll discover some of the district's best Black-owned dining establishments, including Ben's Chili Bowl and Oohh's & Aahh's on U street, and Florida Avenue Grill and HalfSmoke on Florida Avenue. Additionally, a strip of ethnic restaurants on H Street Northeast in the Atlas District offers Belgian fare, Japanese cuisine and more. For a crash course in the city's varied dining scene, consider booking a guided tour.
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. If you'd rather get a traditional taste of Washington, make reservations at tried and true spots like Old Ebbitt Grill and 1789.
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 and Union Market. At these bustling markets, you can pick up everything from pickles to sweet peaches to buttery pastries. Breweries and brewpubs have become a popular mainstay here, too, and a trip to the nation's capital wouldn't be 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 3,387 Places to Eat in Washington DC
$ - $$ | Eastern European523 8th St SE, Washington DC, DC 20003-2835Read More » - #2
Bistro Aracosia#2 of 3,387 Places to Eat in Washington DC
$ - $$ | Afghani5100 MacArthur Blvd NW, Washington DC, DC 20016-3316Read More » - #3
Barmini#3 of 3,387 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #4
Quill#4 of 3,387 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #5
Joe's Seafood Prime Steak & Stone Crab#5 of 3,387 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #6
Lafayette Restaurant#6 of 3,387 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #7
Kinship Restaurant#7 of 3,387 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #8
Keren Restaurant#8 of 3,387 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #9
Commissary#9 of 3,387 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #10
Doyle (Bar)#10 of 3,387 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #11
Rose's Luxury#11 of 3,387 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #12
The Dabney#12 of 3,387 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #13
Rasika#13 of 3,387 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #14
Tortino Restaurant#14 of 3,387 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #15
Marcel's by Robert Wiedmaier#15 of 3,387 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #16
Zaytinya#16 of 3,387 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #17
Old Ebbitt Grill#17 of 3,387 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #18
Fiola#18 of 3,387 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #19
The Capital Grille#19 of 3,387 Places to Eat in Washington DC - #20
The Capital Burger#20 of 3,387 Places to Eat in Washington DC
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