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Best Authentic Restaurants in Penn Quarter

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189 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Zaytinya - DC restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(19271)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • Penn Quarter
Booked 267 times today
Under the direction of celebrated chef José Andrés and concept chef Michael Costa, Zaytinya offers an innovative mezze menu inspired by Turkish, Greek, and Lebanese cuisines served up in a sleek and modern setting. Building on Jose’s deep knowledge of Mediterranean cooking and years of research and travel, the menu features shared small plates of authentic and innovative fare, creative cocktails, and unique Mediterranean wines, making Zaytinya one of the most exciting restaurants in Washington, DC.
A photo of Jaleo - DC restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(10898)
Price: Expensive
• Spanish • Penn Quarter
Booked 135 times today
Jaleo brings alive the spirit and flavors of Spain with a menu reflecting the rich regional diversity of classical and contemporary Spanish cuisine, under the direction of renowned chef José Andrés. Jaleo offers an impressive assortment of tapas, the traditional small dishes of Spain, as well as savory paellas, superb sangrias and a fine selection of Spanish wines and Sherries in a festive, casual atmosphere.
A photo of Oyamel restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(9547)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Penn Quarter
Booked 124 times today
Oyamel Cocina Mexicana combines Mexico’s rich regional culinary traditions with modern urban fare. Guests experience an array of antijitos—traditional Mexican snack or small plates—along with authentic tacos, ceviches and an impressive selection of cocktails and tequilas. Under the direction of renowned chef José Andrés, Head Chef Omar Rodriguez takes traditional ingredients and techniques and elevates them to deliver dishes and drinks with exceptional creativity and refinement.
A photo of Succotash PRIME restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(3847)
Price: Moderate
• American • Penn Quarter
Booked 125 times today
Succotash PRIME is a progressive perspective of classic Southern favorites. James Beard Award winner Edward Lee brings his Korean roots and Southern repertoire to a soulful Southern Steakhouse menu.SUCCOTASH is named after the classic dish that has been a longstanding staple of the Southern table. While many know “Succotash” when they see it, the dish has been interpreted, modified, and passed from generation to generation for centuries. Our “Succotash” is special to us and we invite you to experience the South from our point of view.
A photo of Centrolina restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2094)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • Penn Quarter
Booked 37 times today
Centrolina is an Italian restaurant and market, locally owned and operated by Chef Amy Brandwein, set in Washington’s CityCenterDC development. The Osteria showcases a seasonally driven menu of authentic and innovative Italian dishes offered for lunch and dinner. Chef Brandwein's menu is inspired from the seasons, Italian regionality and the wide variety of Chef curated product in the adjoining market. The market showcases a selection of imported Italian specialty items along with locally sourced meat, sustainable fish, and produce from local farms. The Centrolina kitchen produces daily hand crafted fresh pasta and sauces, antipasti and entrees available for takeaway. For parties of 7 people or more, we do require a prix-fixe menu, please email caroline@centrolinadc.com for additional information.
A photo of Carmine's - Washington DC restaurant
4.5
Awesome(6510)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Penn Quarter
Booked 109 times today
Carmine's is a family style restaurant offering exceptional value to its guests through the many dishes of Southern Italian cuisine. Restaurateur Artie Cutler crafted Carmine's with a singular vision; bringing his guests abundant portions and making any meal feel like an Italian American wedding feast. Platters of made to order pasta, decadent seafood or meat entrees, and of course homemade desserts are all staples at Carmine's, meant for sharing among friends and family. When great food and wine are supported by friendly and knowledgeable service, the results are magic - we want every day to feel like a Sunday afternoon at Grandma's! We are open for Indoor & Outdoor Dining, Pick-up, Delivery, Catering and Private Parties. Your safety is our priority. DC no longer requires proof of vaccination to dine indoors. Indoor & Outdoor dining are available.
A photo of Tonari restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(311)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Penn Quarter
Booked 51 times today
Tonari is our Wafu Italian restaurant. WAFU means Japanese-style, so our menu is a Japanese take on Italian food. It originated in Japan through the love that the Japanese had for Italian food but wanted to incorporate some of their cultural flavors and ingredients to them. We at Daikaya Group and chef & owner, Katsuya Fukushima, are bringing this experience to you here in DC.Looking for some fun Japanese antipasti bites, one of a kind pasta dishes, or pizza that you won't find anywhere else in the city? Then come join us for dinner, we look forward to having you soon.
A photo of China Chilcano restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(3675)
Price: Expensive
• Peruvian • Penn Quarter
Booked 79 times today
China Chilcano is authentic Peruvian cuisine with a twist, offering a unique blend of Peruvian, Chinese, and Japanese culinary traditions. As one reviewer noted, it offers 'fusion in each dish.' The award-winning chef, José Andrés, ensures that the culinary journey is as exciting as it is educational. The reviews consistently highlight the innovative and unique dishes, with many noting it as a must-try experience.
A photo of Mi Vida Penn Quarter restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(379)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Penn Quarter
Booked 61 times today
“Mi Vida” translates to “My Life.” However, in Mexico, “Mi Vida” means much more. “Mi Vida” is a term of endearment bestowed on close family and friends to signify love, care and importance. When one says, “Mi Vida,” they are telling someone special how much they mean to them. MI VIDA describes how we feel about our team and our guests. It is our expression of Mexican culture and cuisine as interpreted through the lens of Chef Roberto Santibañez. Our menu is rooted in the history and culinary tradition of Mexico while exploring the ever-changing boundaries of this vibrant and evolving cuisine.
A photo of DAIKAYA 2F THE IZAKAYA restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(2112)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Penn Quarter
Booked 33 times today
DAIKAYA 2F THE IZAKAYA is a vibrant, authentic Japanese eatery located in Washington, D.C. It serves freestyle and adaptive comfort food, perfect for after-work chats or late-night bites with friends. The cuisine is inspired by street food flavors, as reflected in reviews such as 'food was good... very unique and full of flavor.' Patrons love the diverse selection of bar offerings, the unique small plates, and the high-quality service. The ambiance has been described as 'fun, very Japanese', giving a true sense of being in Tokyo.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Wonwoo
    Washington, D.C. Area •1 review
    4.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Most delicious cuisine, but some tough meat. Recommend fried cuisine with Succotash ale.
    More info
    Succotash PRIMEPrice: Moderate• American• Penn Quarter
    4.6
  • Larry
    Greater Boston •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Great food, friendly service, nice atmosphere. And the specials are reasonably priced. Ordering ala carte could get expensive, but still great food.
    More info
    OyamelPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Penn Quarter
    4.7
  • Molly
    San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Zaytinya is one of my go to places to take friends, family, and out of town people because the food is great and the price is great! Our waitress took a while to take our order but the food came out fast and the drinks were great!
    More info
    Zaytinya - DCPrice: Expensive• Mediterranean• Penn Quarter
    4.7
  • James
    Seattle / Eastern Washington •12 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    We had a great dinner. The food was wonderfully prepared with interesting combinations of ingredients and flavors. The service was attentive but not overly so. We enjoyed the buzzing atmosphere—not quiet but not so loud to interfere with conversation. Overall a very memorable experience!
    More info
    CentrolinaPrice: Very Expensive• Italian• Penn Quarter
    4.7
  • NathanS
    Maine •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    We had been wanting to have dinner at Jaleo for the past few years and finally got to go tonight for my wife’s birthday dinner. Let me start off by saying that it lived up to and exceeded our expectations. We had the mid-range tasting menu with the sherry pairing and every bite was delicious. Our experience was enhanced by our server Carlos’ knowledgeable description of each course and each of the sherries. We look forward to coming back.
    More info
    Jaleo - DCPrice: Expensive• Spanish• Penn Quarter
    4.7

Discover best authentic restaurants in Penn Quarter

Explore the vibrant and diverse dining scene in Washington, D.C.’s Penn Quarter, where authenticity is at the heart of every culinary experience. From the fusion of Peruvian, Chinese, and Japanese flavors to the rich and traditional tastes of Spain, these restaurants offer a journey into the world's most beloved cuisines right in the heart of the capital. Each establishment captures the essence of their respective cultures, offering dishes that are not only authentic but also creatively presented and expertly prepared. Patrons can expect unique dining experiences that combine traditional methods with modern twists, ensuring every meal is both memorable and satisfying. The dining scene in Penn Quarter is characterized by its commitment to authenticity, providing a delightful array of options that cater to lovers of genuine, culturally rich culinary adventures. Whether you are seeking an immersive experience in Spanish tapas or the comfort of Japanese street food, Penn Quarter's restaurant scene promises an authentic taste that truly represents its diverse and international spirit.

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