
18 restaurants that define dining in Washington, D.C.

by Christabel Lobo
Updated 29 March 2023
Washington, D.C.’s best restaurants are defined by global flavors. There are storied spots that have hosted former presidents, foreign dignitaries, and a cavalcade of other changemakers. But the District’s dining all-stars also include relaxed hangouts for laid-back everyday moments.
Head to Georgetown for a mid-Atlantic seafood feast at one of the city’s oldest fine-dining restaurants. Share crispy spinach chaat at an acclaimed Indian spot in Penn Quarter. Tuck into an all-you-can-eat Balkan spread at a Capitol Hill favorite.
Sample the tastes that are essential to Washington, D.C. by booking a table at one of the city’s 18 greatest restaurants right now.

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Carole
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OpenTable Diner
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LoriVIP
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Lynda
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FredVIP
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Alexandvin
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Anne
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Kathleen
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KristinVIP
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OpenTable Diner
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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 3 Mar 2025
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OpenTable Diner
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SarwarVIP
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Shon
Dined 2 days ago
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OpenTable DinerVIP
Dined on 1 Mar 2025
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AlexVIP
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OpenTable Diner
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