Just as Los Angeles runs on showbiz, there’s no query that D.C. is an trade city. But even politicos must eat. Luckily for these of us extra taken with what’s on our plates than both facet of the aisle, a world affect flows from boardrooms and embassies into our eating places.
Each time we compile this checklist, it adjustments with the occasions. From decidedly formal to café-centered, we at all times search to incorporate what’s price your money and time, whether or not it’s new or outdated, fancy or destined to grow to be an on a regular basis hang-out. This version has new inclusions that present the restaurant scene’s breadth by showcasing arguably town’s most hotly sought-after reservation, alongside a neighborhood staple we’ve returned to many times.
So, the place to subsequent? Whether you’re a neighborhood or simply visiting D.C., these eating places function a street map to deliciousness, but additionally to the center of our capital metropolis. Whether you’re trying ahead to waking up with a few of our storied Ethiopian fare or closing out the night time with artistic cocktails paired with crispy bites, there’s one thing for each event right here.
Updated February 2026: In this newest replace, which highlights the perfect D.C. eating places this month, we now have added Dōgon and Unconventional Diner.
This information was up to date by D.C.-based author Alice Levitt. At Time Out, all our journey guides are written by native writers who know their cities inside out. For extra about how we curate and assessment eating places, see our editorial tips.
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