Best Bistros in Southwest Waterfront

15 restaurants available nearby

1. Cynthia

4.5

Awesome(7)

Price: Expensive

• Bistro • H Street Corridor

Booked 6 times today

Cynthia is a neighborhood bar and bistro featuring beautiful pasta, creative burgers, shareable starters, while always offering vegan and vegetarian options. Our beverage program showcases reimagined timeless classic cocktails with creative and modern twists, and a thoughtfully curated selection of beautiful wine from both regional vineyards and renowned global producers. We look forward to reintroducing Cynthia to our friends and neighbors, and welcoming new faces to our neighborhood bar and bistro.

2. Chez Billy Sud

4.8

Exceptional(2963)

Price: Very Expensive

• Bistro • Georgetown

Booked 64 times today

Chez Billy Sud, nestled in the historic neighborhood of Georgetown, Washington, D.C., is renowned for its authentic Wine Bar, Bar à Vin. This charming spot stands out for its "great wine selection" and has been hailed for its "great advice re what to order," ensuring a perfectly paired wine experience with every meal. Visitors frequently rave about the ambiance and the exceptional food, but it is the wine that completes the dining experience, offering "good value propositions in terms of wine" that beautifully complement the classic French fare. Whether you are a wine aficionado or a casual drinker, Chez Billy Sud’s Wine Bar offers a cozy getaway to indulge in a meticulously curated wine list that promises to enhance your meal and elevate your evening.

A photo of Bistrot Lepic & Wine Bar restaurant

3. Bistrot Lepic & Wine Bar

4.9

Exceptional(2637)

Price: Expensive

• Bistro • Georgetown

Booked 19 times today

Nestled in the heart of Georgetown, Washington, Bistrot Lepic & Wine Bar shines as a beacon of exquisite French bistro cuisine. Celebrating over 29 years, this charming establishment boasts a menu that dazzles with "classic, regional, and contemporary French cuisine." Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality of dishes such as the "best Cassoulet" and "perfectly prepared soft shell crabs," highlighting the chef's skill in elevating traditional flavors. The ambiance, enhanced by live Jazz performances, encapsulates the essence of a cozy Parisian bistro, making every dining experience special. Reviewers consistently praise its "excellent food and attentive service," affirming Bistrot Lepic as a true gem in Washington's culinary landscape.

4. La Piquette

4.8

Exceptional(2948)

Price: Expensive

• Bistro • Cleveland Park

Booked 23 times today

Nestled in the charming neighborhood of Cleveland Park, Washington, La Piquette is celebrated for its authentic French cuisine that transports diners straight to France with every bite. Executive Chef Francis Layrle's commitment to farm-raised, seasonal ingredients ensures a menu that's as fresh as it is delightful. Patrons rave about the "superb" short ribs and the "best duck confit" over a bed of lentils, praising dishes for their perfection and authenticity. The ambiance of this neighborhood bistrot is consistently described as "fun, simple, and delicious," making every visit memorable. With accolades like "the food is always WONDERFUL" and service that is "gracious and efficient," La Piquette stands out as a gem for those seeking genuine French fare in D.C.

5. Cafe Du Parc

4.4

Awesome(2566)

Price: Expensive

• Bistro • Downtown

Booked 44 times today

Café du Parc, a Parisian-inspired gem in the heart of Washington, D.C., offers an authentic café experience reminiscent of a sidewalk café in Europe. Nestled steps from the National Mall, this café provides not only a prime location but also serves top-notch coffee and pastries that transport you straight to France. Patrons rave about the "perfectly flaky delicious almond croissant and ham and cheese croissant," which are both splendid highlights of their dining experience. The café's atmosphere is praised as "welcoming and cozy," making it a preferred spot for both locals and visitors. It's the attention to traditional French culinary details and the bustling, yet inviting ambiance that makes Café du Parc a standout destination for café cuisine lovers looking for quality and authenticity in the capital city.

6. Maison Cheryl

4.4

Awesome(491)

Price: Expensive

• Bistro • Arlington

Booked 14 times today

At Maison Cheryl in Arlington, you can savor the essence of French New-American Bistro cuisine in a vibrant, modern setting. Chef Robert Maher has infused the menu with the spirit of Cheryl Glaessner, creating dishes that are both heartfelt and exquisitely crafted. Guests rave about the authenticity and quality of the food, with one noting, "The duck was absolutely amazing!" and another recommending, "You have to order the madeleines!" This spot is celebrated not just for its food but also for its outstanding service and inviting atmosphere, making every dining experience memorable. Whether for brunch, dinner, or a special occasion, Maison Cheryl stands out as a gem in Arlington, consistently providing a "phenomenal atmosphere, service, and food," making it a must-visit destination for lovers of genuine Bistro cuisine.

7. La Tomate

4.8

Exceptional(1390)

Price: Expensive

• Bistro • Dupont Circle

Booked 15 times today

La Tomate, nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Dupont Circle in Washington, D.C., has been a beloved bistro since 1987, enchanting diners with its authentic Italian cuisine and cozy ambiance. Known for its home-cooked meals that transport patrons straight to Italy, La Tomate offers an array of dishes from homemade pastas to exquisite desserts, praised as "amazing" and "the best in DC." Guests love the "beautiful ambiance" whether dining al fresco on the lush patio or inside the charming, window-clad dining room. With consistent accolades for both food and service, such as "always a lovely dining experience" and "exceptionally caring service team," it's clear that La Tomate holds a special place in the hearts of both locals and visitors, making it a must-visit for those seeking a taste of Italy in the heart of D.C.

A photo of Lena's Wood-Fired Pizza + Tap restaurant

8. Lena's Wood-Fired Pizza + Tap

4.6

Exceptional(2898)

Price: Moderate

• Bistro • Old Town Alexandria

Booked 52 times today

Lena's Wood-Fired Pizza + Tap, nestled in the charming neighborhood of Old Town Alexandria, offers a delightful Bistro experience that stands out for its quality and authenticity. Diners are particularly enchanted by the Havana 151 loft, a themed dining adventure that captures the essence of a 1940s Cuban hotel with a "sultry, elegant supper club" ambiance. Guests rave about the exceptional Bistro cuisine, highlighting dishes like the "delicious seafood paella" and "outstanding" mushroom pizza. Reviewers consistently praise the "beautiful ambiance" and "attentive service," describing Lena's as a "hidden gem" in Alexandria. The restaurant's commitment to adapting and providing top-notch experiences makes it a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic Bistro flair with a unique twist.

A photo of Pinstripes - Georgetown restaurant

9. Pinstripes - Georgetown

4.3

Awesome(374)

Price: Moderate

• Bistro • Georgetown

Booked 6 times today

Pinstripes in Georgetown, Washington, offers a sublime taste of Italy with its authentic and delicious Italian cuisine. Their Italian-American dishes are crafted from scratch, offering diners a sophisticated blend of flavors that turn any meal into an experience. Reviewers consistently praise the restaurant with comments like, "Only eat here if you want one of the best Caesar Salads you'll ever have. 10/10," and "Got the lobster pasta here, which I thought was beautiful, with plenty of lobster in it." The Ultimate Veggie pizza and homemade mozzarella also receive special mentions for their freshness and quality. This establishment is not just about great Italian food; it's about creating memorable moments around the table, making it a must-visit for those seeking both quality dining and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Georgetown.

10. Bastille

4.7

Exceptional(3070)

Price: Expensive

• Bistro • Alexandria

Booked 18 times today

Bastille Brasserie & Bar in Alexandria, VA, is a haven of authentic French cuisine, where Chefs Christophe & Michelle Poteaux craft award-winning dishes that "celebrate French food, wine, and culture daily." Patrons rave about the seasonal, locally-sourced menu, describing it as a "true gem" with offerings that transport them straight to Paris. Glowing reviews frequently highlight the "fabulous food and gracious service," with recommendations like the "best Croque-monsieur outside of Paris" and the must-try "prix fixe with wine pairing." Bastille is not just a meal, it’s an experience, lauded for making "every occasion feel special." Whether it's a sunny brunch on the patio or a chic dinner inside, Bastille promises and delivers a slice of France right in Old Town Alexandria.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

OT
OpenTable Diner
Washington, D.C. Area •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Lovely place for lunch!! Food and service were great.
More info
Chez Billy SudPrice: Very Expensive• French• Georgetown
•
4.8
C
Catharin
Washington, D.C. Area •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
My family has dined at Bistrot Lepic since it opened more than 20 years ago and it is oir culinary home aqay from home. It is a cut above most French restaurants ih the DC area and has a warm and welcoming ambience.
More info
Bistrot Lepic & Wine BarPrice: Expensive• French• Georgetown
•
4.9
S
Sandy
Washington, D.C. Area •11 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
So glad we made a reservation. Service was outstanding. One of the best coffees I have had in a restaurant in this country.
More info
Cafe Du ParcPrice: Expensive• Contemporary French• Downtown
•
4.4
S
Sarah
Austin •1 review
5.0
Dined on Dec 19, 2024
We had a wonderful anniversary dinner at Cynthia last night! From the moment we walked in, the people working there were so kind, even offering us a free class of sparkling wine for our anniversary. We tried several cocktails and enjoyed all of them very much. We ate the bruschetta, steak frittes, and both desserts. Everything was great, and the red chimichurri sauce on the steak really caught our attention! We had a lovely meal, and we would definitely return again.
More info
CynthiaPrice: Expensive• Bistro• H Street Corridor
•
4.5
L
LoriVIP
Chicago / Illinois •34 reviews
5.0
Dined on Dec 12, 2024
Maison Cheryl is one of our favorite restaurants and we just popped in for an early bite at the bar and it knocked it out of the park as always :-) The winter salad with squash and pecans and goat cheese is my new favorite. Hopefully they put it on the regular menu! And had the truffle burger, which I had a craving for and why we went there. :-) Trowley on an amazing Wagyu burger, nothing more needs to be said. Outstanding! And of course, truffle fries to go with it.. incredible
More info
Maison CherylPrice: Expensive• Contemporary French / American• Arlington
•
4.4

Explore OpenTable

Southwest Waterfront

Bistro

Best Bistros in Southwest Waterfront

Price

Regions

Neighborhoods

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating Options

Award-winning

Accessibility

15 restaurants available nearby

1. Cynthia

2. Chez Billy Sud

3. Bistrot Lepic & Wine Bar

4. La Piquette

5. Cafe Du Parc

6. Maison Cheryl

7. La Tomate

8. Lena's Wood-Fired Pizza + Tap

9. Pinstripes - Georgetown

10. Bastille

See what locals rave about

Explore OpenTable