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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Dupont Circle

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105 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Tabard Inn restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(3781)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Dupont Circle
Booked 37 times today
At the heart of Dupont Circle in Washington lies the Tabard Inn, a culinary gem renowned for its exceptional Continental cuisine. Since 1922, this historic venue has served as a charming retreat, consistently delighting diners with its authentic and beautifully crafted dishes. Under the guidance of Executive Chef Matthew Zafrir, whose stellar background includes stints at notable D.C. establishments, the Tabard Inn offers a sophisticated menu that skillfully blends traditional favorites with inventive new offerings. Diners rave about the "delightful seasonal treats" like the gazpacho and rockfish, and the "succulent" chicken fricassee. The ambiance, described as a "cozy restaurant with great foods and warm services," complements the dining experience, making every visit memorable. Whether enjoying a meal on the picturesque patio or in the eclectic dining rooms, guests at the Tabard Inn are treated to a slice of Continental excellence that's both comforting and exciting.
A photo of The Pembroke restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1938)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Dupont Circle
Booked 48 times today
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Dupont Circle, Washington, The Pembroke stands out as a premier destination for exquisite vegetarian cuisine amidst its contemporary American menu with global influences. Described by The Washington Post’s Tom Sietsema as “cut from a different cloth,” The Pembroke offers a dining experience that marries sophisticated design with culinary excellence. Guests rave about vegetarian options like the delicious burrata and salads, highlighting their freshness and flavorful execution. With its plush, stylish setting and panoramic neighborhood views, The Pembroke is a must-visit for those seeking an authentic and high-quality vegetarian meal. As one diner put it, “The food is to die for,” making every visit a memorable gastronomic journey.
A photo of Teddy & The Bully Bar restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(2019)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Dupont Circle
Booked 9 times today
Teddy & The Bully Bar in Dupont Circle, Washington, DC, is a culinary gem renowned for its exceptional seafood offerings. The restaurant's line-caught fish is a testament to its commitment to quality and sustainability. Patrons rave about the seafood selections, with one guest highlighting the "delicious salmon" and another applauding the "seared salmon as the main event!" as standout dishes. The ambiance of Teddy's adds to the dining experience, making it not just a meal but a memorable event. The consistent praise for both the food and the attentive service underscores the restaurant's dedication to excellence in every aspect of dining. Whether it's a special occasion or a casual meal, Teddy & The Bully Bar delivers an authentic and delightful seafood experience that keeps guests coming back.
A photo of Bresca restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(869)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • U Street Corridor
Booked 16 times today
Bresca, nestled in the vibrant U Street Corridor of Washington, DC, is a beacon of contemporary French cuisine. The restaurant has garnered glowing accolades for its innovative approach to French dining, skillfully blending Eastern and Western culinary traditions under the guidance of Chef Ryan Ratino. Diners rave about the exceptional quality of dishes such as the Potato Pierogi and Diver Scallop, highlighting the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients which "sing of summer." The atmosphere is described as a perfect mix of cozy bistro charm and refined elegance, making every visit memorable. With accolades like "best duck I’ve ever had" and experiences that exceed expectations, Bresca stands out as a pinnacle of culinary excellence and creativity.
A photo of The Park at 14th restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2914)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 32 times today
At The Park at 14th in Downtown Washington D.C., seafood enthusiasts are treated to an exquisite dining experience that tantalizes the taste buds with its high-quality and authentic seafood dishes. Nestled with a stunning view of Franklin Square, this venue is consistently praised for its culinary delights. Guests rave about the "amazing" seafood options, with particular shout-outs to the "blackened salmon that was worth every penny" and the "exceptionally delicious grits." The atmosphere is matched by the vibrant and attentive service, ensuring every seafood dish is a hit. As one reviewer put it, the food is "outstanding," making The Park at 14th a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-tier seafood experience in the heart of the capital.
A photo of Dauphine’s restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1392)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 16 times today
Dauphine’s in Downtown, Washington, D.C., is not just a restaurant but a vibrant celebration of New Orleans culture, particularly renowned for its exceptional Cocktail Bar. Patrons rave about their "refreshing and delicious" seasonal spritz and the "delightful spritz cocktail," highlighting the bar's creativity and quality. The cocktail list perfectly complements their New Orleans-inspired cuisine, creating a truly transportive experience. Whether it's the lively ambiance during happy hour or the elegant setting for a night out, each drink is crafted with meticulous care. As one reviewer puts it, the cocktails are "interesting and delicious," making Dauphine’s a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts in the capital.
A photo of The Greenhouse at The Jefferson, DC restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1078)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 12 times today
Located in downtown DC, just four blocks from the White House, breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch are served under The Jefferson’s historic skylight in The Greenhouse. Natural light streams from above, creating an airy atmosphere that complements the light, fresh and energizing fare on our seasonal menus.
A photo of Michele’s restaurant
4.3
Awesome(291)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • West Loop
Booked 2 times today
Michele's, located in the vibrant West Loop of Washington, offers a delightful take on Contemporary French cuisine, crafted by MICHELIN-starred Chef Matt Baker. This restaurant stands out for its commitment to seasonal and high-quality ingredients, presented in a manner that's both sophisticated and accessible. Guests rave about the innovative dishes, like the "beef tartare and the potato truffle tarte … WOW," highlighting the unique blend of flavors that Chef Baker brings to the table. The atmosphere is described as perfect for any occasion, from a casual burger night to a special date, with live music and prime steaks enhancing the experience. Michele's not only promises but delivers a "delightful dining experience" with each visit, making it a must-visit destination for lovers of fine Contemporary French dining in Washington D.C.
A photo of CUT by Wolfgang Puck restaurant
4.5
Awesome(604)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Georgetown
Booked 19 times today
CUT by Wolfgang Puck in Georgetown, Washington D.C. is a beacon for steak lovers seeking the epitome of culinary excellence. Praised for serving "the most perfect steak in DC," this restaurant excels in both food quality and service. Guests rave about the Nebraska filet, calling it "divine," and consistently celebrate the attentive and welcoming staff. As a testament to its commitment to a superlative dining experience, one reviewer exclaimed, "Seriously the best steak I’ve ever had and I’ve had a lot!" CUT by Wolfgang Puck not only promises a remarkable meal but delivers an unforgettable dining ambiance, making every visit a special occasion.
A photo of Founding Farmers & Distillers DC: Chinatown restaurant
4.4
Awesome(10321)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Mount Vernon Square
Booked 164 times today
At Founding Farmers & Distillers DC: Chinatown, located in the vibrant Mount Vernon Square of Washington, D.C., the essence of Contemporary American cuisine is celebrated with an innovative twist. Esteemed for its commitment to farm-to-table freshness and a menu rich in diversity, this restaurant stands out for its authentic American flavors blended with local influences. Praised for its “amazing food” and “excellent service,” patrons consistently applaud the quality and creativity of dishes like the Chinese fried chicken and the house-made cornbread. As one diner raved, it’s “definitely something to put on your bucket list.” The restaurant’s robust connection with American family farmers ensures that each meal is not only delightful but also rooted in sustainability and community support. With a lively ambiance and a menu that caters to varied palates, Founding Farmers & Distillers is a must-visit for anyone seeking a genuine taste of Contemporary American cuisine in the heart of the capital.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • TimothyVIP
    Orlando / Central Florida East •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    What the heck. This place was quite the surprise. It blew us away. The food was surprisingly good. We ordered several different times, and each time the food came out fresh, hot, quickly, and looked like an artist put it together. The jumbo shrimp with cilantro goodness was amazing. Calamari better than it should have been. The service was amazing. The prices? Way too low. Happy hour prices are ridiculous. I mean so ridiculously low. I think maybe they just love people. I’m not sure. I’d make this my go to spot if I lived here.
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    The Park at 14thPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown
    4.7
  • SamVIP
    New York City •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Another wonderful meal at Brasca, every time my girlfriend and I decide to go here it is beyond incredible. Alexandra was great and our service was perfect all around. We will be back.
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    BrescaPrice: Expensive• Contemporary French / American• U Street Corridor
    4.7
  • KimVIP
    New York City •18 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    We had breakfast at the Tabard Inn because it looked like a unique hotel that I wanted to check out, and it was within walking distance from where I was staying. The hotel was charming and unique in its eclectic furnishings. The dining room was quiet. The breakfast was almost half what I paid at the Jefferson Hotel the day before and twice as good. I had eggs over easy. I asked for my bacon well done. It was cooked to perfection and one of the best orders of bacon I ever had. The biscuit and hash browns, which were more like roasted potatoes, were delicious. The service was attentive but not overbearing. I would return the next time I'm in DC.
    More info
    Tabard InnPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Dupont Circle
    4.7
  • RickVIP
    Washington, D.C. Area •33 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Perfect business lunch atmosphere right on Dupont Circle. Great food, drinks and service. Well dressed clientele.
    More info
    The PembrokePrice: Expensive• Global, International• Dupont Circle
    4.5
  • Stacy
    St. Louis •3 reviews
    4.0
    Dined on Dec 15, 2024
    Thanks to Randall we had an unforgettable brunch. The bottomless brunch is a good value and it was fun to try lots of different things. The flatbreads were my favorite.
    More info
    Teddy & The Bully BarPrice: Expensive• American• Dupont Circle
    4.6

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Dupont Circle

Experience the essence of contemporary American cuisine in the vibrant Dupont Circle neighborhood of Washington, D.C. This area is renowned for its diverse dining scene, offering a plethora of options that encapsulate the innovative and sophisticated flavors of modern American cooking. Restaurants in this locale pride themselves on their creative culinary techniques and the use of high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients, ensuring each dish not only tastes exquisite but is also responsibly curated. Dupont Circle is a hub for culinary excellence, where chefs are known for their eclectic menus that blend traditional American flavors with global influences. Whether you're seeking a cozy spot for a casual meal or an upscale venue for a special occasion, you'll find establishments that perfectly match your dining mood and preferences. Each restaurant in this area strives to provide a unique dining experience, from serene al fresco settings to lively indoor atmospheres enriched with music and art. The neighborhood is also celebrated for its outstanding service and welcoming ambiance, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike. Whether you are enjoying a meal under the stars or savoring innovative cocktails on a rooftop overlooking the city, Dupont Circle promises a memorable culinary journey that highlights the best of contemporary American dining.

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