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Best Restaurants for Foodies in Downtown

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54 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Moonraker restaurant
1. Moonraker
4.5
Awesome(350)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Southwest Waterfront
Booked 23 times today
Welcome to Moonraker at Pendry Washington DC – The Wharf, a signature rooftop hideaway with a Japanese inspired menu of light bites and sushi alongside handcrafted cocktails, a curated selection of Japanese whiskeys, and more. All set around a stunning central bar boasting panoramic views of the waterfront. A laidback lounge by day evolves into a buzzy nightlife scene alongside a handsome bar that sets the scene for intimate soirées, nighttime meet ups and weekend afternoons by the Potomac.Introducing Capitol Brunch. Meet us at Moonraker for an all-new weekend brunch menu, featuring everything from bottomless brunch cocktails to Japanese-infused breakfast classics like Shokupan French Toast and Tokyo Chicken and Waffles, sushi and more alongside live jazz music and a stunning view of Washington’s best.
A photo of Jônt restaurant
2. Jônt
4.8
Exceptional(93)
Price: Very Expensive
• French / Japanese • U Street Corridor
Booked 14 times today
At Jônt, we are a team of young and inspired chefs taking down the walls between kitchen and guests and taking you on a culinary adventure. Immerse yourself in a progressive tasting menu focusing on the simple, yet luxurious, ingredients around the world with deep inspiration from Japanese cuisine.We challenge the seasons, navigate beyond the limits of time and break with tradition— getting playful with process and tricky with techniques at the intersection of place and possibility.Jônt has been recognized with two Michelin stars since 2021.
A photo of The Dabney restaurant
3. The Dabney
4.7
Exceptional(245)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Shaw
Booked 23 times today
Located in historic Blagden Alley in D.C.'s Shaw neighborhood since 2015, The Dabney continues to pay tribute to the wonderful farmers, watermen, and purveyors of the mid-Atlantic region whom provide some of the best and most unique products in the country. We celebrate these ingredients by preparing them in a large wood burning hearth which is the centerpiece of our open kitchen. The current dining room experience is an 8-course tasting menu honoring the Mid-Atlantic's bounty. We offer an additional 3-course experience at our bar and bar area tables. Walk-in guests are welcome to enjoy the bar area as well.The Dabney has been awarded one Michelin star every year since 2017, James Beard Foundation Best Chef Mid-Atlantic for Chef Jeremiah Langhorne in 2018, and Washingtonian Magazine's #1 restaurant in 2023. At this time we are unable to accommodate severe allium and dairy allergies as well as vegan and vegetarian diets.
A photo of Zaytinya - DC restaurant
4. Zaytinya - DC
4.7
Exceptional(19305)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • Penn Quarter
Booked 229 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 Tosca restaurant
5. Tosca
4.8
Exceptional(4509)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Downtown
Booked 16 times today
Tosca is a foodie haven, offering a unique dining experience with contemporary northern Italian cuisine. Reviewers rave about the 'creative food selection', 'outstanding' food, and 'top notch service'. The restaurant's focus on seasonal ingredients, paired with a modern, elegant setting, makes it a go-to for foodies in Washington, D.C.
A photo of Cranes restaurant
6. Cranes
4.8
Exceptional(300)
Price: Expensive
• Spanish • Penn Quarter
Booked 4 times today
Explore the intersections of Spanish and Japanese cuisine at Cranes, a restaurant and sake lounge by chef Pepe Moncayo. Chef Pepe’s contemporary dishes spotlight the similarities he has found with the ingredients, techniques and culinary viewpoints of Japan and Spain. From cooking style to ingredient and flavor combinations, his Spanish Kaiseki is a natural cultural and culinary marriage. The design of the 12,000 square foot restaurant space includes a beautifully striking bar, large sake lounge, raised dining area, open kitchen, and private dining room suitable for 30 guests. The sleek, modern, yet approachable space draws on the chef’s Spanish and Japanese influences. Bright polished metals and thoughtfully placed wood elements layer amongst dark textures and dramatic lighting.
A photo of Dovetail restaurant
7. Dovetail
4.5
Awesome(91)
Price: Expensive
• American • Logan Circle
Booked 5 times today
Exploring the crossroads of southern hospitality and Mid-Atlantic cuisine, Dovetail draws from regional ingredients to innovate with the dynamic flavors of the Northeast. Situated on the District's 14th Street corridor within Viceroy Washington DC, the indoor-outdoor restaurant offers rotating seasonal menus featuring the freshest ingredients from East Coast farmers, fishermen and purveyors. Relax on our all-weather outdoor patio for brunch or dinner while enjoying a destination raw bar with chilled Maine lobster and Chesapeake oysters, tantalizing appetizers like deviled eggs with kimchi or pork rinds with homemade ranch, exquisitely prepared dry aged steaks paired with fresh local vegetables, and sweet seasonal treats. Don't miss our happy hour where Dovetail's formidable beverage program is the star - highlighting local spirits, a selection of new and old world wines, craft brews, and inventive cocktails. At Dovetail, we're always up for sharing a good meal.
A photo of Ted's Bulletin - 14th Street restaurant
8. Ted's Bulletin - 14th Street
4.7
Exceptional(987)
Price: Moderate
• American • Logan Circle
Booked 18 times today
Welcome to Ted’s. Your go-to place to savor The Every Day. We are a neighborhood eatery, taking a creative and contemporary approach to classic American dishes and cocktails. Open daily for all-day breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks. Voted “Best Hangover Breakfast” and “Best Kid-Friendly Restaurant” by readers of Washington City Paper (in the same year), Ted’s Bulletin is truly a restaurant for all seasons.
A photo of Dirty Habit | The Glass House restaurant
9. Dirty Habit | The Glass House
4.4
Awesome(2234)
Price: Moderate
• Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service • Penn Quarter
Booked 45 times today
Dirty Habit DC is a globally inspired New American restaurant & bar in a hip, edgy hotel space with private courtyard space. Just a perfect location for happy hour cocktails, events and private bookings. Open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner and late night bites.
A photo of Centrolina restaurant
10. Centrolina
4.7
Exceptional(2101)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • Penn Quarter
Booked 26 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.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Kellamvip
    Washington, D.C. Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Best flavors and food in dc! Extremely playful play on textures, with running motifs of flavor throughout the night. Everything looked exquisite. Truly an unforgettable dinner.
    More info
    JôntPrice: Very Expensive• French / Japanese• U Street Corridor
    •
    4.8
  • Rachel
    Los Angeles •17 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Food was so amazingly good, from the roasted cauliflower to the tender and flavorful steak. The service was friendly and helpful, modifying the chef's menu for our vegetarian with shellfish allergy guest. And the overall enviroment was warm, welcoming, and cozy. My only complaint is that the experience is so good that no one wants to leave their tables! Like a great family dinner. Thank you
    More info
    Zaytinya - DCPrice: Expensive• Mediterranean• Penn Quarter
    •
    4.7
  • Robert
    Cleveland / Akron / Canton •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Menu was very well crafted and for the season, food was excellent and the service was outstanding.
    More info
    The DabneyPrice: Very Expensive• American• Shaw
    •
    4.7
  • Toni McIntosh
    Washington, D.C. Area •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    I had an amazing experience, as usual. Our server Chris was attentive and engaging. The managers checked-in to make sure we were comfortable, and food and drinks were to our satisfaction. The food is outstanding! Period. Every dish was absolutely delicious as well as the crafted cocktails. If you plan to go, check out the menu but don't make up your mind before arrival. The chef will definitely have something on the specials that will make you rethink your decision.
    More info
    ToscaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Downtown
    •
    4.8
  • King
    Washington, D.C. Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 23, 2024
    Great and amazing experience. I enjoy every dish and the environment was amazing.
    More info
    MoonrakerPrice: Very Expensive• Japanese• Southwest Waterfront
    •
    4.5

Discover best foodies restaurants in Downtown

Explore the vibrant dining scene in Downtown Washington, D.C., a true haven for foodies looking for exceptional culinary experiences. This area is renowned for its diverse array of restaurants that cater to every palate, whether you're in the mood for traditional Spanish fare, refined power dining, or classic American steakhouse offerings. Each restaurant prides itself on delivering not only spectacular food but also impeccable service and a memorable ambiance, perfect for any dining occasion. The focus on high-quality ingredients, expertly crafted dishes, and innovative menus highlights the expertise and dedication of the chefs. Dining in Downtown D.C. offers more than just a meal; it provides a gastronomic journey that captivates both locals and visitors alike. Indulge in a world-class dining experience where culinary artistry meets the charm and history of Washington, D.C.

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