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Best Historic Restaurants in Waterfront

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61 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Old Ebbitt Grill restaurant
1. Old Ebbitt Grill
4.8
Exceptional(29571)
Price: Moderate
• American • Downtown
Booked 245 times today
Founded in 1856, Old Ebbitt Grill is Washington, DC's oldest saloon and a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. Situated in the heart of the city, just steps from The White House, this historic landmark offers a timeless blend of classic American cuisine and unparalleled hospitality. Old Ebbitt Grill promises a memorable visit filled with a warm ambiance and a seasonal menu spanning from freshly shucked oysters to house-made pastas and perfectly prepared steaks & chops. From the Rooftop Terrace to the Atrium or Cabinet Room, Ebbitt's private dining spaces are ideal for celebrations ranging from small and intimate to grand and stylish.
A photo of The Dabney restaurant
2. The Dabney
4.7
Exceptional(245)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Shaw
Booked 22 times today
Located in historic Blagden Alley in D.C.'s Shaw neighborhood since 2015, The Dabney continues to pay tribute to the wonderful farmers, watermen, and purveyors of the mid-Atlantic region whom provide some of the best and most unique products in the country. We celebrate these ingredients by preparing them in a large wood burning hearth which is the centerpiece of our open kitchen. The current dining room experience is an 8-course tasting menu honoring the Mid-Atlantic's bounty. We offer an additional 3-course experience at our bar and bar area tables. Walk-in guests are welcome to enjoy the bar area as well.The Dabney has been awarded one Michelin star every year since 2017, James Beard Foundation Best Chef Mid-Atlantic for Chef Jeremiah Langhorne in 2018, and Washingtonian Magazine's #1 restaurant in 2023. At this time we are unable to accommodate severe allium and dairy allergies as well as vegan and vegetarian diets.
A photo of Tabard Inn restaurant
3. Tabard Inn
4.7
Exceptional(3753)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Dupont Circle
Booked 30 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.
A photo of Founding Farmers & Distillers DC: Chinatown restaurant
4. Founding Farmers & Distillers DC: Chinatown
4.4
Awesome(10283)
Price: Moderate
• American • Mount Vernon Square
Booked 107 times today
Walking distance to many of DC’s historic landmarks, Founding Farmers & Distillers offers a diverse menu including dishes inspired by nearby Chinatown and cocktails featuring our in-house distillery, Founding Spirits. Open 365 days a year, our team is passionate about crafting dishes & drinks from scratch with high-quality ingredients from farmers and suppliers we know and trust. Join us for breakfast, lunch, dinner, weekday happy hour, decadent weekend Farmers Market Buffet Brunch, or grab a cup of house-roasted coffee and breakfast treat from our First Bake Cafe. Majority owned by American family farmers, including the more than 50,000 farmers of the North Dakota Farmers Union, our restaurant is guided by a very simple principal: we see and share everything Through The Eyes Of The Farmer.™ We actively care about our guests, our communities, the planet, and the next generation. This all comes together in our everyday
A photo of Chez Billy Sud restaurant
5. Chez Billy Sud
4.8
Exceptional(2942)
Price: Moderate
• French • Georgetown
Booked 50 times today
Welcome to Chez Billy Sud, your classic neighborhood French bistro in the heart of historic Georgetown! We are now taking reservations for dinner 30 days in advance. Depending on the weather, our patio is available on a first-come basis. Please check with your host upon arrival for patio seating.Our Bar à Vin (located right next door) is open and requires no reservations. You can also visit our sister bistro Cafe Colline in Arlington which also offers reservations via OpenTable.Please visit our website ChezBillySud.com or check us out on Instagram @ChezBillySud.We look to hosting you!
A photo of Ocean Prime - Washington D.C. restaurant
6. Ocean Prime - Washington D.C.
4.8
Exceptional(4308)
Price: Very Expensive
• Seafood • Downtown
Booked 31 times today
Located in the historic Colorado Building at 1341 G Street NW and just steps away from the White House,Ocean Prime is a nationally acclaimed, dynamic seafood & steakhouse from the award-winning Cameron Mitchell Restaurants. Ocean Prime delivers an elevated experience with exceptional ambiance, a chef-curated menu, signature handcrafted cocktails, Wine Spectator honored wine list and genuine hospitality. Reservations are recommended.Ocean Prime strives to provide an elegant, fine dining atmosphere. Our associates’ priority is to ensure your experience is memorable. We ask for attire that is both polished and suited to our restaurant.THANK YOU FOR NOT WEARING: Clothing emitting excessive marijuana odor Excessively revealing clothing or exposed undergarments Clothing with offensive language or graphics Admittance to Ocean Prime is at the discretion of management who reserves the right to refuse service to patrons who are inappropriately dressed.
A photo of Virtue Feed & Grain restaurant
7. Virtue Feed & Grain
4.6
Exceptional(4575)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Alexandria
Booked 77 times today
Virtue Feed & Grain is a modern American dining room and bar located near the Potomac River in Old Town, Alexandria. Our menu offers an array of original recipe, flavorful, scratch-made dishes, along with extensive selections from the bar, like handcrafted cocktails, craft and small-batch beers, and an impressive wine list. The rustic elegance of our large, two-story restaurant provides a vibrant atmosphere for any dining experience, as well as private and semi-private spaces for private events, celebrations, weddings, business meetings, and gatherings of all types. The seasonal outdoor patio on historic Wales Alley offers views to the Potomac and a fun, casual destination.***Unfortunately we do not take advance reservations on our outdoor patio, but we will do our best to accommodate requests as space is available.** All Major Holidays will require a $50 deposit when booking and subject to a 2 hour table time. Please call the restaurant for assistance.
A photo of 1789 Restaurant restaurant
8. 1789 Restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(6287)
Price: Expensive
• American • Georgetown
Booked 15 times today
1789 is a historic fine dining restaurant and bar located in the heart of Georgetown with a charming and elegant atmosphere. Known for its elevated American cuisine, 1789 offers a menu that showcases seasonal ingredients and innovative flavors. The restaurant's culinary team is dedicated to creating dishes that are both visually stunning and delicious. In addition to an exceptional menu, 1789 also boasts an extensive wine list featuring a wide selection of domestic and international wines. With its rich history, exquisite cuisine, and warm ambiance, 1789 Restaurant & Bar is a must-visit destination for those seeking a memorable experience in the nation's capital.
A photo of The Greenhouse at The Jefferson, DC restaurant
9. The Greenhouse at The Jefferson, DC
4.8
Exceptional(1070)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Downtown
Booked 7 times today
Located in downtown DC, just four blocks from the White House, breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch are served under The Jefferson’s historic skylight in The Greenhouse. Natural light streams from above, creating an airy atmosphere that complements the light, fresh and energizing fare on our seasonal menus.
A photo of Petite Cerise restaurant
10. Petite Cerise
4.7
Exceptional(120)
Price: Expensive
• French • Mount Vernon Square
Booked 45 times today
Part neighborhood café, part energetic bistro, Petite Cerise is located in a bright and lively historic corner space in Shaw/Mount Vernon Triangle. Petite Cerise features separate à la carte menus for brunch, lunch, and dinner. In addition, Petite Cerise has a Coffee Counter open Tuesday - Friday opening at 8am serving classic coffee and espresso preparations, housemade pastries, and other breakfast items to go or sit down.Dinner offers both an à la carte menu along with a Prix Fixe option. The focus in the evening is to craft unique and innovative dishes utilizing the very best ingredients within the Mid-Atlantic region and beyond skillfully prepared through a French lens.If you decide to join us for a morning coffee, quick mid-day bite, stretch out your lunch over a glass of wine, or gather with friends for an indulgent and creative dinner, we invite you here to celebrate and enjoy.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Malena
    Los Angeles •1 review
    5.0
    Dined today
    Founding Farmers & Distillery - A Must-Visit Gem in D.C. If you’re in Washington, D.C., and looking for a dining experience that hits all the marks, Founding Farmers & Distillery is it. From the moment you step in, the ambience sets the perfect tone—warm, inviting, and effortlessly chic. The food is absolutely phenomenal! Every dish is crafted with care, bursting with fresh flavors that make it clear why this place is a local favorite. Their in-house drinks are next-level—whether you’re into cocktails, spirits, or mocktails, every sip is a testament to their craft. The fact that they distill their own spirits adds an authentic and unforgettable touch. What truly elevated our visit was the service. Christian, our server, was exceptional. Friendly, professional, and incredibly attentive, he went above and beyond to ensure our meal was flawless. His enthusiasm and genuine care made us feel like VIPs. Whether it’s a casual outing, date night, or celebration, Founding Farmers & Distillery offers an unparalleled experience. It’s the kind of place you’ll rave about long after your visit—and start planning your next trip back before you even leave! 10/10 recommend.
    More info
    Founding Farmers & Distillers DC: ChinatownPrice: Moderate• American• Mount Vernon Square
    •
    4.4
  • Elliot
    Washington, D.C. Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    It's been many years since I've been to the Tabard Inn, so long ago that I was living in Dupont on Riggs Place. It was low key and funky and much smaller. The present version is very different but equally enjoyable. Larger, still good food, but more space and fewer distractions. A great place to meet for breakfast and escape from the bustling of one of Washington's friendliest circles.
    More info
    Tabard InnPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Dupont Circle
    •
    4.7
  • Robert
    Cleveland / Akron / Canton •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Menu was very well crafted and for the season, food was excellent and the service was outstanding.
    More info
    The DabneyPrice: Very Expensive• American• Shaw
    •
    4.7
  • Amelievip
    Austin •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Our dinner was perfect from start to finish. The service and ambiance was off the charts as was the food
    More info
    Chez Billy SudPrice: Moderate• French• Georgetown
    •
    4.8
  • Omarvip
    Hawaii •43 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Wow, as advertised, great host, server, manager!!!! The food we ordered was all superb!!! Crab cake to start, wife ordered the meatloaf, I had the short rib stroganoff. We had reservations and thankful we thought ahead, the 1330 lunch rush was visible on the weekend. I ordered a bloody mary, only portion of the meal which I thought lacked attention. Manager passed by the table and was very nice!!! Thank you for the Carrot cake, it was phenomenal. Highly would recommend and glad we came!!!
    More info
    Old Ebbitt GrillPrice: Moderate• American• Downtown
    •
    4.8

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