Best Casual Restaurants in Bloomingdale / Brookland

When your first course is something to savor, you know you are in for a real treat. My tricolore salad was outstanding, served in a classic old style glass salad dish. The flavor stayed with me, pistachios, the perfect amount of olives, citrus and herbs, olive oil and vinegar. I have celiac and was entirely accommodated with gluten free bread and pasta. I chose the spicy bolognese, beef and pork topped with whipped ricotta and was catapulted into old Italian restaurants of my youth in NYC. The service was incredible. We were catered to instead of it being a chore, it seemed a pleasure for our server. The ambiance is fun, old school art and photos hung haphazardly evoking a feeling like the restaurant had been there for years. It is a small restaurant, hence the reservation wait, but it is a good feeling in a world of oversized restaurants. We got take out for members of my family who couldn’t be there, and the chef and partner, Matt Adler, brought us our bags with a smile. I’m grateful we had the opportunity to thank him. To top it off, the prices for food and drinks are so reasonable. That is outside the norm for hot restaurants here, but so welcome. I cannot wait to go back, but fear it may be a while with the food and service they have to offer for the limited space they have.

Founding Farmers & Distillery - A Must-Visit Gem in D.C. If you’re in Washington, D.C., and looking for a dining experience that hits all the marks, Founding Farmers & Distillery is it. From the moment you step in, the ambience sets the perfect tone—warm, inviting, and effortlessly chic. The food is absolutely phenomenal! Every dish is crafted with care, bursting with fresh flavors that make it clear why this place is a local favorite. Their in-house drinks are next-level—whether you’re into cocktails, spirits, or mocktails, every sip is a testament to their craft. The fact that they distill their own spirits adds an authentic and unforgettable touch. What truly elevated our visit was the service. Christian, our server, was exceptional. Friendly, professional, and incredibly attentive, he went above and beyond to ensure our meal was flawless. His enthusiasm and genuine care made us feel like VIPs. Whether it’s a casual outing, date night, or celebration, Founding Farmers & Distillery offers an unparalleled experience. It’s the kind of place you’ll rave about long after your visit—and start planning your next trip back before you even leave! 10/10 recommend.

Everything about this restaurant was delicious and thoughtfully made. Even though Chef Edward Lee was not there in person, the Chef that was cooking did an amazing job because the food was very flavorful. This restaurant has exceeded my expectations and I am glad I did not give up on making the reservations.

A wonderful variety available from the unlimited small plate menu. Cauliflower and the beet salad were delicious. In fact, every dish we had we ordered seconds of. Service was warm, friendly, and fast. The space can be a bit noisy but we will be back often!

I was dining with friends and our kids. The staff was amazing, especially given they had to contend with our energetic kids running around. The food was excellent and the ambiance just what we were looking for.