The Best Restaurants in Washington, D.C.: A Food Guide to the U.S.

Despite its official nature, food in Washington is not surrounded by any air of pretentiousness. Even a standard fast-food joint can turn out to be a favorite dining spot for presidents. But we’ve compiled a list of top places where you can enjoy a good meal, relax, and have a great time.

Read the article to find out about the best restaurants in Washington for any taste and budget.

What and Where to Try

Washington, the capital of the United States, attracts millions of tourists with its historic landmarks, museums, and political institutions. However, to make your visit truly unforgettable, it's important to choose the right place to dine. Here, we will tell you about the best restaurants in the capital, where you can enjoy not only delicious food but also a pleasant atmosphere.

Before diving into the best restaurants, let’s talk about how to identify good places on your own.

1. 01.Cheap and Cheerful
   Fast food is considered a full meal. This is exactly how such restaurants are viewed by D.C. residents. Moreover, there are numerous small bistros and snack bars where presidents and Senate members often dined. And they certainly don’t have money issues; the fast food here is really worth it. However, we don't recommend getting too carried away — after all, it's not the healthiest food.
2. 02.Expensive and Sophisticated
   Washington’s restaurants might not boast originality — they are often large and pompous halls with classic American dining decor. Experimental cuisine is also present, but the setting isn’t always vibrant. If you’re in the mood for luxury, it’s great, but for everyday visits, it might become quite tiresome. So, it doesn’t make sense to spend a lot for regular dining.

Luxurious Restaurants

We’ve gathered several restaurants in Washington, D.C. from different price categories to help you navigate and make your stay in the capital more interesting.

For those seeking luxury and top-notch service, Washington offers numerous restaurants with exquisite cuisine and elegant interiors.

The Hay-Adams

Located across from the White House, this historic hotel offers exquisite dishes and a magnificent view of the city’s main landmarks. Chefs create culinary masterpieces that blend tradition with modernity.

The Ritz-Carlton, Washington, D.C.

This hotel is known for its spacious rooms and refined decor, and the restaurant offers gourmet dishes made from fresh local products. Excellent service and a cozy atmosphere make this place ideal for special occasions.

The Quill

One of the best restaurants in Washington, leaving a stunning impression. The menu features American and Mediterranean cuisines, the hall boasts excellent interior and live music, and it’s less than a kilometer from the White House! We recommend not rushing your visit here; you’ll want to sit longer, talk, and enjoy the atmosphere.

Historical Restaurants

Washington is rich in history, which is reflected not only in its monuments and museums but also in its restaurants.

Willard InterContinental Washington

One of the most famous historic hotels in the city, it opened its doors in 1818 and has since hosted many notable figures, including presidents and diplomats. The restaurant offers luxurious dishes with historical decor and modern amenities.

The St. Regis Washington, D.C.

This hotel is renowned for its refined style and high level of service. The restaurant serves exquisite dishes made from the best products and boasts an extensive wine list.

Budget Restaurants

Tortino Restaurant

American cuisine doesn’t appeal to everyone. But there is a more universal option. For example, in this restaurant on Pennsylvania Avenue, you can enjoy the freshest seafood, meat, and vegetables, as well as a fine selection of wines. Some products are brought to Tortino directly from Italy, but most are purchased every morning at local markets, so there’s no doubt about the quality.

Sweetgreen

Near Tortino, you’ll find this small restaurant. The menu features salads and cold appetizers, and the prices are more than attractive. For a small fee, you can have a hearty meal. At least, it’s a good place to grab a bite between excursions or have lunch while strolling.

Agora

Greek, Middle Eastern, and Turkish cuisines have found their best expression here. The dishes are diverse: freshly baked bread and flatbreads, numerous grain garnishes, hummus, grilled meat and fish… There are also separate menus for vegetarians, vegans, and people with gluten intolerance.

El Rinconcito Cafe

As we know, delicious Latin American cuisine doesn’t reside in fancy restaurants — it’s always a café, always a place where you can vary the ingredients and eat outdoors. This café meets all the criteria — budget-friendly, hearty, quick, and incredibly tasty.