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Best Restaurants Washington DC 2022: Where to Eat & Drink, Food Recommendations

Dive into Washington DC’s culinary scene which is known for being eclectic, colourful and one of the most acclaimed in America. Get a taste of DC in this Best Restaurants Washington DC 2021 list.

Albi

If you’re searching to expand your palette and experience new flavors, Albi is the best Middle Eastern-inspired restaurant to visit in Washington, D.C.

Best Restaurants Washington DC 2021
Credit: Albi

Award-winning Chef Michael Rafidi is drawing inspiration from his roots in the Levant region for his first solo restaurant.

Albi is a newcomer to the dining scene having just opened before the pandemic.

After winning Chef of the Year at DC’s Eater Awards in 2017, Chef Rafidi has combined both his American and Levantine roots into one delicious restaurant of his own creation.

Located in Navy Yard, one of Washington’s hottest neighborhoods, Albi is situated in a great spot – however, what’s inside its doors is even better.

Best Restaurants Washington DC 2021
Credit: Albi

Rafidi’s solo endeavor features an open kitchen, so that customers can view the hearth and wood-burning oven in action.

Your taste buds will be fired up to satisfaction, thanks to this authentic coal-fired cuisine.

Coal-fired branzino; bbq’d lamb kebobs; grilled lamb belly are some of the highlights of the menu.

Best Restaurants Washington DC 2021: Where to Eat & Drink, Food Recommendations
Credit: Albi

Anju

Head down to Anju for a home-style, contemporary Korean dining experience.

Best Restaurants Washington DC 2021: Where to Eat & Drink, Food Recommendations
Credit: Anju

Anju, which translates to “food you eat with alcohol,” features a menu of casual food, meant to be shared with friends and eaten with alcohol.

Founded by Chefs Danny Lee and Scott Drewno, Anju is a part of the acclaimed duo’s revered Fried Egg Collective (aka, the group behind hit restaurant Chiko).

Best Restaurants Washington DC 2021: Where to Eat & Drink, Food Recommendations
Credit: Anju

With hip decor, you’ll feel right at home while you chow down on delicious Korean dishes.

From kimchi mandu (dumplings) and fried chicken to seafood fried rice bokum bap, you’re sure to find something that suits your tastebuds.

The menu also features some classics dishes inspired Chef Danny Lee’s mother. These include Dak Jim (chili braised chicken thighs, potatoes, and onion) and Kimchi Jigae (pork rib meat stew, soft tofu and aged kimchi).

Oohhs & Aahhs

If you’re searching for a late night snack, Oohhs & Aahhs comes in hot, serving you the best soul food in Washington D.C.

Credit: Oohhs & Aahhs

As a local black-owned and operated business, Oohhs & Aahhs is dedicated to preserving black culture both through their award-winning cuisine and their dedication to fighting racial injustice and creating an inclusive community for everyone.

Some highlights of the menu include Fried Chicken Leg Quarter; Catfish; Shrim & Grits and more.

Credit: Oohhs & Aahhs

The restaurant has also received some notable mentions for having the best cheap eats in DC as well as best Macaroni & Cheese.

Pop culture has something to say about Oohhs & Aahhs too – they were featured on Guy Fieri’s hit show, Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.

Credit: Oohhs & Aahhs

Le Diplomate

Treat yourself to a little slice of Europe at Le Diplomate, a quaint and popular DC restaurant inspired by French café culture.

Credit: Le Diplomate

At Le Diplomate, you can enjoy your food for as long as you’d like, no matter how slow of an eater you are.

The restaurant aims to be a gathering space for patrons, to truly embrace the laissez-faire French culture.

Credit: Le Diplomate

Additionally, the atmosphere isn’t the only French thing about Le Diplomate- it also serves rich, class Gallic food, from escargots à la bourguignonne to profiteroles.

With its historic structure that’s reminiscent of a Parisian brasserie, you can envision yourself walking the streets of Montmartre and Saint-Germain-des-Prés without even having to leave D.C.

Credit: Le Diplomate

The restaurant is open for weekday lunch, dinner daily, and aprèsmidi and brunch on Saturday and Sunday.

The Salt Line

Next up on this Best Restaurants Washington DC 2021 list is The Salt Line which brings classic New England dishes like clam chowder and King crab legs to the table.

Credit: The Salt Line

However, the true star of the menu is their specialty oysters.

Credit: The Salt Line

They offer a seasonal selection of local Chesapeake and New England oysters.

If you’re lucky, you’ll get to try the “Cthulhu Deeps,” available exclusively at The Salt Line.

These oysters are crisp and salty, with perfectly balanced, moderate flavors. Even for oyster-newbies, Cthulhu Deeps are the way to go.

At The Salt Line, you can be sure that you’ll enjoy your oysters in an enjoyable atmosphere with outstanding customer service.

As a member of the Long Shot Hospitality (LSH) group, The Salt Line is dedicated to ensuring a perfect experience and has an ultra-talented team on deck to do so.

Head down to The Salt Line to try the some of the best seafood that the Chesapeake Bay and New England waterways have to offer.

Best Restaurants Washington DC 2021: Where to Eat & Drink, Food Recommendations
Credit: The Salt Line

Maydan

If you’re trying to find the perfect spot for a group gathering, be it a family reunion or a night with friends, look no further than Maydan.

Best Restaurants Washington DC 2021: Where to Eat & Drink, Food Recommendations
Credit: Maydan

Washington D.C.’s most welcoming restaurant is Middle Eastern-inspired, with flavors influenced by Morocco, Lebanon, Iran.

With glowing reviews from the Michelin Guide, Bon Apétit, Esquire, and more, Maydan is a must-visit.

Best Restaurants Washington DC 2021: Where to Eat & Drink, Food Recommendations
Credit: Maydan

Maydan’s main philosophy is that of sharing. By placing bread at the center of every table, patrons are encouraged to share the bread with one another, and use it not only to eat their food, but to share and form a closer community bond.

For a revamped restaurant experience that truly encompasses the meaning of “breaking bread,” Maydan will satiate your taste buds and your sense of community at the same time.

Best Restaurants Washington DC 2021: Where to Eat & Drink, Food Recommendations
Credit: Maydan

Some of the dishes that will tantalize your taste buds are the Grilled Butterflied Bronzini; Ribeye; Lamb Shoulder and more.

The Dabney

If you’re committed to supporting the local economy, make a visit to The Dabney.

Best Restaurants Washington DC 2021: Where to Eat & Drink, Food Recommendations
Credit: The Dabney

The Dabney proudly sources its food from local Mid-Atlantic farmers, and purveyors.

By keeping their sourcing local, not only does the Dabney support local businesses, but they provide guests with dishes made from the also provide freshest seasonal ingredients.

Best Restaurants Washington DC 2021: Where to Eat & Drink, Food Recommendations
Credit: The Dabney

Grilled Chesapeake Rockfish, Autum Olive Farm Pork, BBQ Beaver Creak Quail are some of the dishes to give some examples of delicious dishes on the menu.

With an open kitchen, the centerpiece of the room is a wood-burning hearth that exemplifies the region’s classic cooking techniques and showcases the historic food culture.

Best Restaurants Washington DC 2021: Where to Eat & Drink, Food Recommendations
Credit: The Dabney

At The Dabney, you’ll gain a new sense of appreciation for the cuisine of the Mid-Atlantic region.

Call Your Mother

It’s time to Call Your Mother about the best comfort food that Washington D.C. has to offer.

Credit: Call Your Mother

Call You Mother started out as a local bagel shop with a simple goal- to serve good food and make people happy.

Today, it has achieved that goal and so much more.

With several locations spread across the D.C. area (Capitol Hill, Georgetown, Park View, and Bethesda) and an extended deli menu that now features delicious sandwiches, donuts, and more, as the name suggests, Call Your Mother is truly something to write home about.

If you’re having trouble deciding what to order because all their food looks too good, you can never go wrong with one of their signature bagels.

Credit: Call Your Mother

Their bagels come in Plain, Cheddar, Cinnamon Raisin, Poppy Seed, Sesame, Za’atar and more.

Beyond good food, Call Your Mother also has great morals and is dedicated to uplifting the local community.

Credit: Call Your Mother

This is a company that you can feel good spending your money on. Not only does Call Your Mother provide breakfast for local kids in need, but they also work with several community-focused organizations such as Urban Alliance, Ayuda, and Food Rescue, to create a positive social impact.

As their mantra says, Call You Mother is all about “good food, good vibes, and good people.”

Ted’s Bulletin

Ted’s Bulletin is one of the Best Restaurants Washington DC for breakfast.

Credit: Ted’s Bulletin

Whether you’re looking for a good cuppa joe, are craving a fluffy stack of pancakes for lunch (no judgment here), Ted’s Bulletin has got your back.

Ted’s Bulletin has an extensive menu that focuses on modern American food and drinks.

Each person will be able to find something he or she loves, from delicious breakfast burritos to homemade pop tarts.

Credit: Ted’s Bulletin

Beyond the food itself, Ted’s Bulletin aims to encompass the entire Sunday brunch experience, with a welcoming, relaxed, and family-friendly atmosphere.

With an open dining space and amiable staff, Ted’s successfully creates a community-centric feeling within the restaurant.

Credit: Ted’s Bulletin

It’s like all the best parts of dining with your family at home, minus all the messy clean-up.

Ambar

Next up on this Best Restaurants Washington DC roundup is Ambar where you can immerse yourself in rich Balkan culture and cuisine.

Credit: Ambar

The Chef’s Specialties include Lamb Lasagna; Pepper Croquette; Steak Tartar and more.

They offer a selection of dishes from the charcoal grilled including Pork Neck; Chicken Skewers; Meatballs; Smoked Sausage and so froth.

Credit: Ambar

If you’ve never tried Balkan cuisine, or simply can’t choose one item because it looks all too delicious, the Ambar Experience is the perfect option.

For just $39.99 per person, you’ll get to try a little bit of everything that Ambar has to offer.

Credit: Ambar

Add an unlimited selection of drinks for just $19.99 a person.

Having been featured in Forbes, the Washingtonian, and, most notably, the Michelin Guide’s Bib Gourmand Selection, Ambar’s food is something to be revered.

Ambar is dedicated to providing patrons with a true Balkan experience, which includes Balkan hospitality that is warm, friendly, and makes every single guest feel like the most important person in the restaurant.

A Baked Joint & Baked & Wired

Moving on this Best Restaurants Washington DC list is one of the best bakeries in the area.

A Baked Joint in Washington D.C. is dedicated to serving the most delicious and nutritious bread available.

Credit: A Baked Joint

Their bread loaves are handmade and baked daily, so you know it’s always fresh and fluffy.

They are also committed to using the highest quality ingredients and traditional bread-making techniques to ensure maximum flavor and nutrition.

Even if you’re in the mood for something a little more filling than a simple loaf of bread, A Baked Joint still has you covered.

Credit: A Baked Joint

They offer a variety of baked goods and breakfast sandwiches, that are always well-balanced and addictively delicious.

A Baked Joint is a highly regarded local favorite, as is its sister bakery, Baked & Wired!

Best Restaurants Washington DC 2021: Where to Eat & Drink, Food Recommendations
Credit: Baked & Wired

If you have an uncontrollable sweet tooth, you can’t miss out on Baked & Wired.

With the same precise baking techniques and high-quality ingredients found at A Baked Joint, Baked and Wired serves up tasty cakes, cupcakes, and other sweet treats.

Check out at least one of these sister stores today to satisfy all your carb-related cravings.

Filomena

For authentic Italian food in Washington D.C., look no further than Filomena. They’re one of the best restaurants Washington DC for Italian cuisine.

Best Restaurants Washington DC 2021: Where to Eat & Drink, Food Recommendations
Credit: Filomena

With a rich history dating back the 1980’s, and founded by JoAnna Filomena herself, the restaurant takes inspiration from the traditional recipes of the Abruzzi region of Italy, where the Filomena family is from.

With its family-focused legacy, Filomena recreates the cozy feeling of sitting down for a homemade family dinner- if, of course, your family made the best pasta in D.C.

Located in the Georgetown neighbourhood, Filomena provides an extraordinary dining experience.

Best Restaurants Washington DC 2021: Where to Eat & Drink, Food Recommendations
Credit: Filomena

From the traditional Italian cuisine and wine, to the exceptional customer service, Filomena takes the term “fine dining” to a new level.

In fact, Filomena is so revered that its tables have been graced by the likes of Cindy Crawford, Denzel Washington, Robert De Niro, and several U.S. presidents.

When you’re ready to grace your taste buds, make sure to get a reservation- Filomena is in high demand, as it should be.

Taqueria Habanero

One of the Best Washington DC restaurants for Mexican cuisine is Taqueria Habanero.

Founded by Dio and Mirna Montero, Taqueria Habanero was years in the making.

After immigrating to the United States and working as dishwasher and line cooks to get by, Dio and Mirna had a vision – they would create a cultural experience for the people of Washington D.C., that celebrates authentic Mexican cuisine.

At Taqueria Habanero, everything is prepared with the utmost care and precision.

Best Restaurants Washington DC 2021: Where to Eat & Drink, Food Recommendations
Credit: Taqueria Habanero

Sauces, marinades and tortillas are all prepared from scratch, to ensure the flavors really shine.

Credit: Taqueria Habanero

Over 14 flavors of tacos are offered, so there’s no doubt you’ll find one that speaks to you.

Whether you prefer to keep it classic with Tacos Al Pastor, or venture to try a taco with Chapulines (grasshopper), Taqueria Habanero will ensure that only the freshest ingredients cross your lips.

Credit: Taqueria Habanero

Beyond the food itself, Taqueria Habanero also aims to build a community through food, and to be a place where only the fondest memories are formed.

Sushi Taro

The sushi recommendation in this Best Restaurants Washington DC roundup is Sushi Taro.

For the ultimate experience, book a seat at Sushi Taro’s special Omakase counter where you receive 4-6 small dishes followed by sashimi and sushi.

Credit: Sushi Taro

Once of the best parts of the counter is that you have significant control over your meal – once the chef presents you with the daily selection of fresh fish, you’re free to choose whatever you’d like to eat.

Charges for the counter vary depending on what is available for your course and how much you actually eat. Minimum charges at $250 per person.

If you’re able to obtain a seat at this counter, you will be treated to one of the most well-balanced and delectable meals of your life.

Chiko

Chiko is the first restaurant within the Fried Egg Collective, a restaurant group formed by Chefs Danny Lee and Scott Drewno, alongside Drew Kim.

Credit: Chiko

With Chiko, Lee and Drewno embarked on a journey to use modern cooking techniques that combine traditional Chinese and Korean flavors.

On the menu are delectable dishes such as pork & kimchi potstickers; smashed salmon; cumin lamb stirfry; Korean garden noodles and more.

Credit: Chiko

Their innovative dishes have captured the hearts (and stomachs) of many in the D.C. area, so much that Chiko now has several locations across the United States.

One of the best things about Chiko is its relaxed atmosphere and relatively low price points, so that you can enjoy exceptionally delicious food without having to break your budget or break out your fine-dining attire.

Chiko is the perfect spot to head to for a night out with friends, and enjoy some game-changing cuisine.

Pho Viet

For the best bowl of pho in Washington D.C., you need to try Pho Viet.

Located in the Columbia Heights neighborhood, Pho Viet is dedicated to serving authentic Vietnamese cuisine that will satisfy any food craving.

With a pho broth that has been tested, trialed, and adjusted to absolute perfection, Pho Viet’s food is full of aromatics and spices that will make your heart sing.

The restaurant itself has minimal decor, and has a relatively small dining space of just 35 tables.

But that’s just because they know that their food shines enough on its own.

With such a small dining space, wait times are common, but once the pho is in your hands, you won’t even remember it.

Even if pho isn’t your thing, you can still chow down on a variety of delicious Vietnamese food, such as their vermicelli bowls and rice plates.

Beau Thai

Beau Thai is the Thai recommendation in this Best Restaurants Washington DC roundup.

Committed to serving fresh and delicious food, Beau Thai has an inviting atmosphere that naturally draws you in.

This welcoming atmosphere makes perfect sense, given that Beau Thai’s core mission is to “bring people together through authentic Thai cuisine.”

By honoring Thai cooking traditions, embracing made-from-scratch curry pastes, and tracking down rare ingredients, Beau Thai takes great pride in their food, and wants to share that pride with the local D.C. community.

To foster both local and global community, Beau Thai has made a habit of donating to numerous causes that they care about – from the World Wildlife Foundation to the Center for Black Equity.

If you’re looking to experience traditional Thai dishes such as Panang Curry, while knowing that your money is going to a good organization, try Beau Thai today.

CherCher

CherCher’s Ethiopian cuisine is here to take you on a flavor journey.

Paying homage to the region officially known as the West Harargie Zone, CherCher showcases the region’s traditional flavors and dishes in its United States-based restaurant.

CherCher offers authentic Ethiopian dishes like tibs (available in several different flavors) and lamb stew.

What makes this restaurant even more special is its dedication to offering its fresh cuisine at affordable prices.

Although D.C. has no shortage of Ethiopian restaurants, CherCher beats out the competition with authentic flavors, fresh ingredients, and budget-friendly prices.

Federalist Pig

If you’re a fan of anything barbecue-style, be it ribs, wings, brisket, sausage or anything else, Federalist Pig will make your dreams come true.

As a true American BBQ joint, Federalist Pig opts out of a specific regional style of BBQ, so that they can serve up ALL the amazing flavors that different regions have to offer.

For example, their signature sandwiches come in a wide variety of flavors, including both a Texan-style sandwich and a Tofu Banh Mi.

While the Federalist Pig’s flavor inspiration comes from all over the globe, their close-knit, hardworking management team mainly hail from Washington D.C., and are proud to serve their local area with such mouth-watering food.

The Federalist pig is also dedicated to fostering a community within their restaurant, and provides a stellar customer service experience while keeping prices affordable, so that everyone can try their delicious cuisine.

Everyone needs a good BBQ every once in a while.

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