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Washington D.C. has a food scene as diverse as its population, with DC eateries spanning iconic American classics, Michelin-starred Indian fusion, Mediterranean mezze, Balkan tapas, farm-to-taco vegetarian spots, and everything in between. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, the restaurants in DC on this list represent the full breadth of what makes eating in this city such a rewarding experience.
Red Roof® has rounded up 15 of the best DC eateries to help you eat well during your stay. From legendary half-smokes at a historic U Street institution to build-your-own grilled cheese just half a block from the White House, Washington, D.C. has a table set for every appetite and occasion.
Plan your stay at redroof.com and come hungry
Spanning over 800 acres and home to more than 400 species of flowers and plants from around the world, Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is one of the most popular Columbus attractions for visitors and locals alike. Lush greenhouses, vibrant gardens, and a stunning collection of Victorian-style glass pieces make it a beautiful and memorable experience and a wonderful spot for photography.
A Travelers' Choice award winner located just two minutes from the Smithsonian American Art Museum, Zaytinya by José Andrés is a beloved Mediterranean restaurant. The weekend RoZAY Brunch, featuring three rosés and four courses of mezze, is a local favorite, and the lunch menu offers a variety of affordable Mediterranean flatbreads known as pides.
The oldest saloon in Washington, the Old Ebbitt Grill, has been welcoming travelers and residents since 1856. Open from breakfast through 2 am, the restaurant serves traditional American cuisine with standout dishes including New England Clam Chowder, Fried Oyster Platter, and the Cheeseburger, all in a historic and atmospheric setting.
A Michelin-starred Balkan restaurant on Capitol Hill, Ambar is known for its unlimited brunch, lunch, and dinner menu of decadent, savory tapas-style bites. Guest favorites include the Balkan Salad, Cheese Pie, Drunken Mussels, and Truffle Sourdough Bites with jam. Group dining rates are available.
Dedicated to the owner's father and opened in 2011, Ted's Bulletin is a beloved American home-style diner known for its famous homemade Pop-Tarts and spiked milkshakes. Year-round classics include Country Fried Chicken and the Reuben, and seasonal specials rotate with the menu. Happy Hour offers discounted appetizers, including FedWings Smoked Wings and Fried Pickles.
Tucked around the corner from Ford's Theatre, Pi Pizzeria is a multi-award-winning pizza restaurant named best pizza by Thrillist, TripAdvisor, and Riverfront Times, among others. The signature Chicago-style pizza and the famous garlic knots are must-orders. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available.
Logan Circle's go-to brunch spot, Commissary, serves crowd-pleasing Huevos Rancheros and Pancake Platters alongside a steady flow of mimosas. An extensive daily Happy Hour menu covers cocktails, wine, beer, and discounted small plates including Crispy Cauliflower Tacos and Truffled Fries, while the Signature Burger and Sesame Ginger Chicken Lettuce Wraps are dinner highlights.
A hidden gem in Penn Quarter, Rasika is one of the top restaurants in DC for Indian fusion cuisine, celebrated for its incredible ambiance, world-class dishes, and rich flavors. Executive Chef Vikram Sunderam's modern take on traditional Indian cuisine draws rave reviews worldwide. The signature Chicken Tikka Masala with Palak Chaat is the recommended starting point.
A family-owned, 100 percent vegan restaurant serving soul food in a laid-back cafeteria-style setting, NuVegan Café is one of the top DC eateries for healthy, organic dining. The mac and cheese with sweet kale salad is the go-to order, and the jumbo cinnamon rolls are a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.
One of the best DC eateries for Eastern Mediterranean cuisine, Lebanese Taverna offers an all-you-can-eat Mezza Monday reservation alongside a full-service menu on all other days. Complimentary fresh bread arrives with every meal, and the Taverna Platter with hummus, fattoush, rice, and a choice of chicken shawarma or falafel is the signature dish.
Located just half a block from the White House, GCDC Grilled Cheese Bar is a comfort food institution run by father-and-son duo Bruce and Steven Klores. Fresh bread arrives daily, pastrami is locally sourced, and beer comes from neighborhood craft breweries. Build your own grilled cheese with add-ons like truffle oil, caramelized onions, or house-made pesto. Featured on The Cooking Channel's Offbeat Eats.
A beautiful townhouse eatery with an eclectic international menu, Compass Rose serves dishes inspired by cuisines from around the world, including aguachile, curried lamb, Tunisian chicken, and grilled duck hearts. The Tour of the World prix fixe at $52 per person is the full experience, with affordable a la carte options also available.
A farm-to-taco vegetarian taco shop, Chaia serves up to six creative vegetable-based taco varieties alongside enchiladas, quesadillas, tostadas, and cheesy nachos. Founded with a commitment to simple, seasonal ingredients, the menu is small but exceptional. Elderberry Kombucha, Iced Hibiscus Tea, and the Chaia Margarita are the drinks of choice.
An intimate Spanish tapas restaurant known for its extensive wine and cocktail list and lively atmosphere, Estadio is well worth the wait for a table. The famous Slushitos are a signature drink, while the Patatas Bravas, Grilled Hangar Steak, and Little Pork Belly Sandwich are standout food choices. The Churros for dessert should not be missed.
A DC dining staple for Japanese comfort food at exceptional value, Donburi offers rice bowls with fried pork, tempura shrimp, or fresh sashimi alongside hot rice tea in a relaxed and welcoming setting. The Curry Katsudon is consistently the most popular order, and the combination of quality, presentation, and value makes it one of the most reliable DC eateries.
