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Best Authentic Restaurants in Columbia Heights / Brightwood

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205 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Letena Ethiopian Restaurant restaurant
1. Letena Ethiopian Restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(102)
Price: Moderate
• Ethiopian • Columbia Heights / Brightwood
Booked 5 times today
Letena Ethiopian Restaurant is authentic because it's family-owned, farm-to-table, and serves dishes made with natural, premium ingredients. Reviewers praise it as having 'fresh, vibrant and tasty' food, and the 'best Ethiopian food in the area.' The owners are also commended for their 'great hospitality' and 'unique and beautiful interior space'. The restaurant's goal of making Ethiopian food approachable for all is evident in the high ratings from customers.
A photo of Thip Khao restaurant
2. Thip Khao
new
4.9
Exceptional(4)
Price: Expensive
• Laotian • Columbia Heights / Brightwood
Booked 43 times today
Thip Khao is acclaimed chef Seng Luangrath's flagship restaurant in Columbia Heights, Washington, DC. Thip Khao serves up spicy Lao (or Laotian) dishes and classic cocktails with an exotic twist. Lao cuisine leverages tropical herbs and cooking techniques of Southeast Asia. However, the flavor profile is distinct from its fellow SE Asian countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia. Dishes like Naem Khao (Crispy Rice Salad), Sai Oua (lemongrass pork sausage), Laab, and Tam Muk Houng (Lao papaya salad) at Thip Khao showcase the unique flavors of Laos. Many dishes are served with sticky rice. Chef Seng recommends eating sticky rice with your hands as most Laotians do. Since its opening, the restaurant has been well received by Washingtonians and critics alike. The restaurant has had national recognition from multiple publications including New York Times, Washington Post, Bon Apetit magazine, Washingtonian magazine, and Michelin Guide (Bib Gourmand).
A photo of Kookoo Restaurant and Lounge restaurant
3. Kookoo Restaurant and Lounge
4.6
Exceptional(23)
Price: Moderate
• Persian • Washington
Booked 4 times today
KooKoo is a concept by Chef/Owner Yahya Sardari to bring the tastes of his childhood dishes to life. We strive to use the freshest available ingredients and best family recipes to bring our favorite dishes to life. We have a crafted some amazing Persian inspired cocktails for your enjoyment. Traditional spices married with the best spirits by our resident mixologist Danielle. Yahya Sardari brought Kookoo to life in August of 2023 to showcase his love of Persian cuisine. With family recipes handed down from his mom he recreates his childhood memories and shares his passion for cooking and hosting with his guests.
A photo of Filomena Ristorante restaurant
4. Filomena Ristorante
4.8
Exceptional(17391)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Georgetown
Booked 226 times today
Filomena Now over 40 Years and counting!Filomena is a Washington DC landmark restaurant now with over 40 years of serving some of the finest Italian food you can enjoy. Our Pasta is fresh made by hand just like it was done for centuries in Italy. Our bakery is in-house, and we make over 20 different desserts to choose from. During Valentine's Day, Easter, Halloween and Christmas you can experience some of the most incredible decorations you can find! Four decades of making not just a great dining experience but a memorable one. Filomena has recently introduced a full line of homemade pasta, sauces, desserts that can be shipped nationwide too!
A photo of Zaytinya - DC restaurant
5. Zaytinya - DC
4.7
Exceptional(19616)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • Penn Quarter
Booked 328 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 El Secreto de Rosita restaurant
6. El Secreto de Rosita
4.5
Awesome(725)
Price: Moderate
• Latin American • Downtown
Booked 23 times today
El Secreto De Rosita seeks to create great-tasting, authentic Peruvian street food, expertly crafted by Chef Kike Espinoza, that transports you to the vibrant flavors of Peru. With a warm, welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of your grandmother’s home, it’s a place where every bite feels like a cherished family tradition.
A photo of Rumi's Kitchen - DC restaurant
7. Rumi's Kitchen - DC
4.8
Exceptional(2519)
Price: Expensive
• Persian • Mount Vernon Square
Booked 97 times today
Rumi's Kitchen is a beloved Persian restaurant in Washington DC. Its authenticity is confirmed by reviews like 'Great authentic Persian food with excellent customer service' and 'Absolutely delicious authentic Persian food'. The restaurant's dedication to traditional Persian dishes is noted in reviews like 'The menu, a symphony of flavors, offered a tantalizing selection of traditional Persian dishes'. It's not just about the food though, the overall dining experience is praised with comments like 'Rumi Kitchen proved to be more than a restaurant; it was a journey through Persian culture and gastronomy'.
A photo of Olio e Più - DC restaurant
8. Olio e Più - DC
4.3
Awesome(284)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Washington
Booked 70 times today
Located at 699 14th Street on the coveted corner of 14th and G Street NW, OLIO E PIÙ, is situated on the most high-profile street in Washington D.C., just one block away from the White House, bringing Italian tradition and a true sense of Mediterranean liveliness to the Penn Quarter. As an authentic trattoria, its cuisine is based on classic Italian dishes. As you dine at OLIO E PIÙ, you’ll be transported not just by the flavors of Italy but also by the authentic atmosphere that surrounds you. Here, the spirit of 1970s Italian elegance lives on, and every meal is a celebration of life, love, and the joy of shared moments. OLIO E PIÙ is more than just a restaurant; it’s a portal to a different time and place, where the essence of Italy’s rich culinary and cultural heritage is captured in every detail.
A photo of Jaleo - DC restaurant
9. Jaleo - DC
4.7
Exceptional(11083)
Price: Expensive
• Spanish • Penn Quarter
Booked 136 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 Tabard Inn restaurant
10. Tabard Inn
4.7
Exceptional(3862)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Dupont Circle
Booked 63 times today
Since our early days as a tea room, we’ve been a respite for locals and visitors alike, offering a haven for conversation and memorable cuisine. The tradition continues as our culinary team has curated an inventive and elevated menu through New American cuisine while paying homage to the beloved dishes that have been served at the Tabard Inn for years. Executive Chef Matthew Zafrir came to the Tabard in 2023, bringing with him experience from various fine dining restaurants around D.C. such as minibar by José Andrés, Cranes, Revelers Hour, as well as Woodberry Kitchen in Baltimore, MD. He also shares the Tabard's longstanding commitment to sourcing ingredients locally. Join us for a meal on our covered patio or one of our intimate dining rooms. Or enjoy drinks and light fare in our historic fireplace lounge, where you can enjoy our creative cocktails! A DC institution since 1922, we look forward to offering our guests all the comforts of a home away from home.

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Discover best authentic restaurants in Columbia Heights / Brightwood

Discover the heart of authentic dining in Washington, D.C.'s vibrant Columbia Heights / Brightwood area. This neighborhood is a treasure trove of culinary delights, where restaurants pride themselves on delivering genuine flavors that reflect their unique cultural heritages. Each establishment in this locale offers a distinct experience, focusing on traditional cooking techniques and high-quality ingredients, ensuring an authentic taste that resonates with both locals and visitors. The dining scene here is characterized by its eclectic mix, from cozy eateries to sophisticated settings, all committed to providing an unforgettable gastronomic journey. These restaurants not only cater to those seeking traditional dishes but also to diners looking for an authentic atmosphere. The commitment to authenticity is evident in the meticulous preparation and presentation of each meal, making Columbia Heights / Brightwood a go-to destination for anyone craving a true taste of diverse cultures. Whether you're a food enthusiast or simply exploring the area, the authenticity of these dining spots is sure to provide a rich and satisfying experience.

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