By: Lindsay Garbacik By: Lindsay Garbacik | April 8, 2022 | Food & Drink, Food & Drink Feature,
Living in DC means a constant availability of high-end, quality cuisine from around the globe. With Michelin-starred restaurants and chefs, internationally-inspired flavors, and city classics, there’s no better place to dine than DC.
Check out our picks for the best Mexican restaurants, our favorite tasting menus and the best hotels in the city.
Today, we’re taking a look at new, highly rated, and legendary restaurants of Washington DC that you must try this year.
See Also: Try This New Instagrammable (And Delicious) Experience At The St. Regis DC
3715 Macomb St. NW / Website
The Cuisine: Neapolitan pizza & wine
The Atmosphere: Classic pizza shop vibes with cute outdoor seating options
Why You Need To Dine Here: While they specialize in pizza, there’s always some gourmet cuisine coming from the wine bar. Check out the long list of craft beers, wines and cocktails.
Pro Tip: The shop does not accept reservations so go early if you are determined to grab a bite here.
1346 4th St. SE / Website
The Cuisine: Modern Middle Eastern
The Atmosphere: Cheery and filled with beautifully patterned tiles and textiles.
Why You Need To Dine Here: Inspired by his roots in Palestine, chef Michael Rafidi is a seasoned chef and even won Eater DC’s Chef of the Year award in 2017. He has worked closely alongside celebrity chef Michael Mina throughout his career, as well.
Pro Tip: Try the tasting menu. Closed on Mondays.
2132 Florida Ave. NW / Website
The Cuisine: Modern American
The Atmosphere: Beautiful, intimate tables under a ceiling of skylights and greenery.
Why You Need To Dine Here: The menu was crafted by former White House chef Frank Ruta, who has cooked for three past presidents. Ingredients are sourced from local growers and dishes are inspired by the region.
Pro Tip: Closed on Mondays
1924 9th St. NW / Website
The Cuisine: Ghanaian food and cocktails
The Atmosphere: Chill, laid-back vibes with a welcoming staff and energizing live bands
Why You Need To Dine Here: Located just steps away from Black Broadway, enjoy authentic, home-cooked Ghanian cuisine from chef Prince Matey.
Pro Tip: Live bands and DJs perform at the spot on the weekends. Closed on Mondays.
1521 17th St. NW / Website
The Cuisine: Chinese, specializing in Sichuan food
The Atmosphere: Train car inspired with metal accents
Why You Need To Dine Here: Open late and serving classic cocktails and delectable noodles and wontons, among other plates, conveniently located in Dupont Circle.
Pro Tip: Closed on Tuesdays
425 I St. NW / Website
The Cuisine: Thai
The Atmosphere: Modern interior with large windows and a covered outdoor patio.
Why You Need To Dine Here: Authentic Thai cuisine from chef Jeeraporn Poksupthon paired with craft brews and cocktails.
Pro Tip: Follow their social media for information on pop-up tasting menus!
501 9th St. NW / Website
The Cuisine: Innovative colorful, craft cocktails.
The Atmosphere: Sleek and modern.
Why You Need To Dine Here: From celebrated celeb chef José Andrés experience an array of unique, alcoholic creations.
Pro Tip: Advanced reservations are required.
1309 5th St. NE / Website
The Cuisine: Southern-style American fare
The Atmosphere: Inside Union Market
Why You Need To Dine Here: An ‘ultra-seasonal menu’ grown using rooftop aeroponic gardening from celebrated chef John Mooney.
Pro Tip: Try one (or all) of their many craft cocktails.
815 Connecticut Ave. NW / Website
The Cuisine: Indian
The Atmosphere: Classy, sexy and smart.
Why You Need To Dine Here: Live piano music accompanies high-end, classic Indian cuisine from various regions around India.
Pro Tip: View a number of original art pieces decorating the space.
2800 Pennsylvania Ave. NW / Website
The Cuisine: Steakhouse
The Atmosphere: Modern, wood-clad interior and a string-lit patio seating area.
Why You Need To Dine Here: From celeb chef Michael Mina, this full service steakhouse has everything from Wagyu striploin to exotic seafood and everything in between.
Pro Tip: Check out their cigar menu.
1906 14th St. NW / Website
The Cuisine: French
The Atmosphere: Bright blue walls and whitewashed bricks in this bright yet relaxing eatery.
Why You Need To Dine Here: The Parisian-style bistro has been awarded a Michelin star 2019, 2020 and 2021.
Pro Tip: Closed Mondays and Tuesdays.
403 H St. NE / Website
The Cuisine: Caribbean Street Food
The Atmosphere: Wood tables and a sunny interior
Why You Need To Dine Here: Step into the Caribbean with the restaurant’s assortment of curries, chutneys, meats and a variety of authentic foods.
Pro Tip: Join their members club to taste exclusive monthly specials.
914 14th St. SE / Website
The Cuisine: Italian
The Atmosphere: Classic neighborhood Italian joint
Why You Need To Dine Here: Well-made, high-quality Italian pasta and red sauce.
Pro Tip: Open for dinner Wednesday to Sunday.
1001 Pennsylvania Ave. NW / Website
The Cuisine: French
The Atmosphere: Laid back with a honey brown wood interior and statement chandeliers.
Why You Need To Dine Here: Winner of the James Beard award for best new restaurant and best chef in the United States.
Pro Tip: Open Tuesday to Saturday.
Multiple locations / Website
The Cuisine: Tacos
The Atmosphere: Bright and fresh
Why You Need To Dine Here: Unconventional tacos made almost entirely from locally sourced vegetables. The shop makes just six types of tacos at a time to ensure they are the highest of quality.
Pro Tip: Try the creamy potato and kale taco or one of their many tasty gluten free options. Explore one of their locations in Georgetown, Bethesda or Chinatown.
1331 4th St. SE / Website
The Cuisine: Internationally inspired
The Atmosphere: Industrial with greenery hanging from the rafters.
Why You Need To Dine Here: Chef Haidar Karoum taps into his Lebanese roots and world travels while crafting the ever-changing menu for Chloe.
1346 T St. NW / Website
The Cuisine: International eclectic
The Atmosphere: Red brick exterior and cozy interior.
Why You Need To Dine Here: Try plates of unique cuisine from around the world.
Pro Tip: Reservations are available Tuesday to Sunday.
801 O St. NW / Website
The Cuisine: French American
The Atmosphere: Feels like a real French bistro with its natural light and intimate seating.
Why You Need To Dine Here: Chef and owner Cedric Maupillier grew up in France and aims to bring that
Pro Tip: Check out their Sunday brunch.
724 9th St. NW / Website
The Cuisine: Spanish-Japanese
The Atmosphere: Sleek and modern with dark accents
Why You Need To Dine Here: Awarded a Michelin star in 2021, this unique sake lounge uses seasonal flavors to create Spanish-Japanese cuisine.
Pro Tip: Try the ten-course omakase menu.
705 6th St. NW / Website
The Cuisine: Japanese
The Atmosphere: Modern with patterned walls
Why You Need To Dine Here: The first floor has a walk-in ramen shop while the second floor Izakaya serves Japanese comfort food and allows reservations.
Pro Tip: Sip the broth first, then slurp the noodles, then eat the broth-soaked meat and veggies, per Daikaya’s recommendation.
1201 28th St. NW / Website
The Cuisine: Ethiopian
The Atmosphere: White linens and natural light streaming through oversized windows make this spot feel breezy yet upscale.
Why You Need To Dine Here: Authentic Ethiopian cuisine crafted using locally sourced ingredients and exotic seasonings.
Pro Tip: With two floors and a patio it’s impossible to have a bad seat.
1100 15th St. NW / Website
The Cuisine: Seafood
The Atmosphere: Modern, industrial with accents of black wrought iron and live greenery.
Why You Need To Dine Here: Dishes inspired by New Orleans by acclaimed chef Kristen Essig.
Pro Tip: Try their new brunch and enjoy accompaniment from a live jazz trio.
Multiple Locations / Website
The Cuisine: American
The Atmosphere: Laid back with British influences
Why You Need To Dine Here: Known for their excellent burgers.
Pro Tip: Try the happy hour from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Friday.
1280 4th St. NE / Website
The Cuisine: Colombian tasting menu
The Atmosphere: Warm and inviting with many large plants.
Why You Need To Dine Here: It has been awarded a Michelin star for its off-the-wall tasting menu creations from gastronomic master Juan Manuel Barrientos.
Pro Tip: Closed Mondays and Tuesdays.
3221 Mt. Pleasant St. NW / Website
The Cuisine: Baked goods
The Atmosphere: Quaint, wallpapered and cozy.
Why You Need To Dine Here: Delicious pastries, coffees, teas and savory meals are available all day at this cute Georgetown classic. The spot won a 2021 Michelin Bib Gourmand award.
Pro Tip: Go for brunch!
1520 14th St. NW / Website
The Cuisine: Spanish
The Atmosphere: Laid back and inviting.
Why You Need To Dine Here: Small dishes and tapas inspired by classic dishes from the Baxque and Catalan regions of Spain. More than 90 percent of their wines are Spanish, while others come from Portugal or South America.
Pro Tip: Try a slushito!
600 H St. NE / Website
The Cuisine: Vegan
The Atmosphere: Fresh and light.
Why You Need To Dine Here: James Beard nominated chefs Rich Landau and Kate Jacoby bring their signature plant-based dining to DC after finding success at their Philadelphia location.
Pro Tip: Reservations are highly recommended and are made available four weeks in advance.
601 Pennsylvania Ave. NW / Website
The Cuisine: Italian
The Atmosphere: Glitz and glam with Warhol prints on the display.
Why You Need To Dine Here: Awarded a Michelin star for its high quality cuisine, and helmed by James Beard Award-winning chef Fabio Trabocchi, this high-end spot has an extensive modern Italian tasting menu crafted from farm-fresh ingredients.
Pro Tip: Take advantage of the gorgeous cocktail selections at the bar.
3050 K St. NW, Suite 101 / Website
The Cuisine: Seafood
The Atmosphere: Coastal, nautical and classy
Why You Need To Dine Here: Another creation by James Beard Award-winning chef Fabio Trabocchi, this restaurant and its menu are inspired by seafoods of the Adriatic Sea, Amalfi Coast and Sicily.
Pro Tip: There are a number of coastal-inspired private event spaces available to be reserved.
1401 Okie St. NE / Website
The Cuisine: Modern American
The Atmosphere: Minimalist and industrial
Why You Need To Dine Here: With colorful presentations and a seasonal, farm-fresh menu, led by chef Matt Baker, the cuisine is inspired by the Chesapeake Bay. Winner of one Michelin star, there is also a 15-course tasting menu at the chef’s counter.
Pro Tip: Check out the rooftop bar and lounge.
480 7th St. NW / Website
The Cuisine: Spanish
The Atmosphere: A colorful mix of tiles and artwork.
Why You Need To Dine Here: The first of chef José Andrés’ five renowned tapas bars. Winner of a Michelin Bib Gourmand award.
Pro Tip: Try the sangria.
1904 14th St. NW (inside Bresca) / Website
The Cuisine: Tasting menu
The Atmosphere: Sleek, modern and industrial.
Why You Need To Dine Here: This 14-seat tasting counter lets guests get up close and personal with the young chefs of the joint and their preparation of the dynamic menu. Winner of two Michelin stars.
Pro Tip: Reservations are a must.
751 Wharf St. SW / Website
The Cuisine: Southeast Asian
The Atmosphere: High ceilings, large windows and eye-catching chandeliers.
Why You Need To Dine Here: Inspired by chef Cathal Armstrong’s travels through Thailand and Korea, while also tapping into his wife’s Filipino heritage. Winner of a Michelin Bib Gourmand award.
1015 7th St. NW / Website
The Cuisine: New American
The Atmosphere: Brick exterior and sleek white interior.
Why You Need To Dine Here: Awarded a Michelin star, browse the full a la carte menu for a variety of unique, modern creations.
Pro Tip: Open Wednesday through Sunday at 5:30 p.m., reservations are a must.
250 K St. NE / Website
The Cuisine: Southeast Asian
The Atmosphere: Dark floors and white marble countertops, there’s a fresh and chic feel.
Why You Need To Dine Here: Authentic Laotian cuisine and recipient of a Michelin Bib Gourmand award.
1601 14th St. NW / Website
The Cuisine: French
The Atmosphere: Feels like a classic french bistro
Why You Need To Dine Here: Dine on high-end French-inspired cuisine from brunch through dessert.
Pro Tip: Dine al fresco!
1340 4th St. NE /Website
The Cuisine: Italian
The Atmosphere: Vibrant details, like the jade tile backsplash in the kitchen, and coastal vibes.
Why You Need To Dine Here: Inspired by the Puglia region, each dish is beautiful from its plating to its flavors.
Pro Tip: Try the chef’s eight-course tasting menu.
1201 K St. NW / Website
The Cuisine: French American
The Atmosphere: Bright and modern
Why You Need To Dine Here: Michelin starred chef Matt Baker combines French culinary techniques with multicultural flavors.
Multiple Locations /Website
The Cuisine: Italian
The Atmosphere: Bright and sleek with metal accents.
Why You Need To Dine Here: At its Wharf flagship location, enjoy three floors of fabulous Italian cuisine.
Pro Tip: Check out the rooftop bar!
1100 15th St. NW / Website
The Cuisine: Greek
The Atmosphere: Sleek glass exterior and cozy interior with grand, nature-inspired decor.
Why You Need To Dine Here: Taste a wide variety of Grecian flavors from Michelin starred chef Nicholas Stefanelli.
Pro Tip: We took an inside look at Philotimo, check it out here.
Multiple Locations / Website
The Cuisine: Indian
The Atmosphere: Modern and colorful
Why You Need To Dine Here: Pop by the Penn Quarter or West End locations for two different menus.
Pro Tip: Ask for a wine pairing from their knowledgeable staff.
2436 14th St. NW / Website
The Cuisine: Tasting menu
The Atmosphere: Cozy and decked in warm neutral tones.
Why You Need To Dine Here: Guests can build their own four course meal and are encouraged to share with their table. Winner of a Michelin star, the restaurant prides itself on using seasonal and locally sourced produce.
Pro Tip: The restaurant dedicates one day a week to experimenting with new recipes so the menu is always changing. Closed Sundays and Mondays.
360 Water St. SE / Website
The Cuisine: New American
The Atmosphere: Enormous windows, brick walls and overall light atmosphere.
Why You Need To Dine Here: Get the most out of the Mid-Atlantic region with executive chef Reid Shilling’s seasonal and locally sourced menu. Known to have an excellent brunch.
Pro Tip: Grab a seat at the chef’s counter for an up close view (and smell) of the bread being baked.
1100 15th St. NW /Website
The Cuisine: Japanese
The Atmosphere: Modern and inviting with a prominent sculptural lava stone chandelier and botanical wall. It’s definitely an interior you’ll want to show off.
Why You Need To Dine Here: There’s a large collection of Japanese whiskey. This new Japanese seafood and steakhouse only recently opened in February 2022.
Pro Tip: Sit out on the terrace!
1301 Pennsylvania Ave. NW / Website
The Cuisine: Modern French bistro
The Atmosphere: Modern and cozy with warm tones and soft accents.
Why You Need To Dine Here: This new restaurant is based around a rotisserie that ensures a delectable slow roasting of its seasonal menu.
Pro Tip: Try the locally sourced charcuterie menu!
309 Middle St., Washington, VA / Website
The Cuisine: American with French influences
The Atmosphere: Ornate, whimsical and opulent.
Why You Need To Dine Here: The only restaurant in the DMV awarded three Michelin stars. Many ingredients are grown on the property’s farm or sourced locally, and the restaurant won a Michelin green star for sustainability for its practices.
Pro Tip: A memorable location for any special occasion. The Inn is a staple of DC luxury you must try.
2404 Wisconsin Ave. B / Website
The Cuisine: Spanish
The Atmosphere: Relaxing yet beautifully designed and opulent space.
Why You Need To Dine Here: One year after opening the spot has already been awarded one Michelin star. Each meal consists of a 14-course tasting experience and guests are guided through the multi-level restaurant based on the course.
Pro Tip: Reserve the 24-seat restaurant for a private event to really impress your guests.
Photography by: Courtesy of Unsplash
