Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. Washington, D.C. Area

Best Balkan Restaurants in Downtown

Price
Regions
Areas
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating options
Award-winning
Accessibility

4 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Alhambra restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(719)
Price: Very Expensive
• Balkan style • Downtown
Booked 4 times today
Alhambra, nestled in the heart of downtown Washington, D.C., offers an exceptional Middle Eastern culinary experience that stands out for its authenticity and innovative flair. The restaurant's menu, inspired by the iconic Alhambra Palace, showcases a "wonderful blend of Iberian and Middle-Eastern Arabic style food," making it a top choice for those seeking bold and unique flavors. Chef Brian Bladfält Landry artfully presents dishes that celebrate the rich cultural tapestry of the region. Diners are consistently impressed by the "exquisite" and "uniquely prepared" dishes, with particular praise for the hummus with spicy lamb and the charred Pluma de Iberico. Alhambra's dedication to quality and creativity is truly unmatched.
A photo of Ambar - Shaw restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(468)
Price: Moderate
• Balkan style • Shaw
Booked 51 times today
Ambar - Shaw offers an authentic taste of Eastern European cuisine with its focus on the rich and diverse flavors of the Balkan region. Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Shaw, Washington, Ambar invites you to explore its 'Dining Without Limits' experience, where a plethora of shareable small plates awaits. Guests rave about the "amazing dining experience" and the "unlimited brunch option," which provides an exceptional value. The restaurant's dedication to quality is evident in every dish, from the flavorful kebabs to the delightful pistachio baklava. Whether for brunch, lunch, or dinner, Ambar promises a culinary journey that celebrates the true essence of Balkan dining traditions.
A photo of Ambar Capitol Hill restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(5031)
Price: Moderate
• Balkan style • Capitol Hill
Booked 77 times today
Ambar Capitol Hill is a vibrant culinary destination, offering an authentic taste of Eastern European cuisine with a special focus on Balkan flavors. Located in the heart of Capitol Hill, Washington, this restaurant is renowned for its "outstanding" menu of shareable small plates and the exclusive 'Dining Without Limits' experience, creating a "unique and complete cultural culinary experience." Diners rave about the "amazing food and service," with dishes like sarma and lamb lasagna consistently praised for their rich, savory flavors. Whether you're enjoying a lively brunch or an intimate dinner, Ambar promises a delightful journey through the dynamic flavors of Eastern Europe.
A photo of Ambar - Arlington restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(4101)
Price: Expensive
• Balkan style • Arlington
Booked 70 times today
Ambar - Arlington is an exceptional destination for those seeking authentic Eastern European cuisine, specifically the vibrant flavors of the Balkans. Diners consistently rave about the "unlimited small plates" concept, which allows guests to savor a wide variety of traditional dishes, each bursting with flavor. The restaurant is celebrated for its warm hospitality and lively atmosphere, making every meal a unique experience. With standout dishes like stuffed cabbage and lamb specialties, Ambar elevates Balkan dining to new heights. One enthusiastic patron even declared it their "favorite restaurant in the world," highlighting the fresh, complex, and comforting nature of the cuisine.

How is content generated

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • James
    Washington, D.C. Area •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Wonderful evening. Many small plates, each one better than the last. Finished with the Baklava and a scoop of vanilla ice cream...fantastic. highly recommend! My wife is Bulgarian and they had Bulgarian wine! When you go look for Nemanja. A great guy who was great at his job and, very friendly, made great recommendations. Thank you Nemanja!
    More info
    Ambar - ShawPrice: Moderate• Balkan style• Shaw
    4.6
  • JamesVIP
    Virginia •33 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    The ambience, food and service was excellent. It was a great place to celebrate Valentine’s Day with my hubby.
    More info
    Ambar - ArlingtonPrice: Expensive• Tapas / Small Plates• Arlington
    4.6
  • DreyVIP
    Washington, D.C. Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We went there for my boyfriend birthday and we’re both so thankful for the overall services from the host to the servers even the one that wasn’t assigned to us were very kind . A special thanks to Yaser impeccable service he took care of my boyfriend and I like we were family. Food also 10/10 ambiance really relaxing and chic .we will definitely be back.
    More info
    AlhambraPrice: Very Expensive• Mediterranean• Downtown
    4.7
  • Shanay
    Washington, D.C. Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    I always enjoy my time at Ambar. I’ve come several time with my job at Project Create and recently took my husband. He really enjoyed the food and variety.
    More info
    Ambar Capitol HillPrice: Moderate• Balkan style• Capitol Hill
    4.7

Discover best Balkan style restaurants in Downtown

Explore the vibrant essence of Balkan cuisine right in the heart of Downtown Washington, D.C. Our curated selection of restaurants showcases the rich and robust flavors typical of Balkan-style cooking, offering a unique culinary adventure. From traditional dishes like cevapi and sarma to contemporary interpretations that blend Balkan flavors with modern gastronomy, each restaurant provides an authentic taste of Southeastern Europe. The dining scene in Downtown D.C. is diverse, reflecting a wide array of international cuisines that cater to all tastes and preferences. These establishments not only serve up delicious food but also feature cozy, culturally inspired atmospheres that make every meal a memorable experience. Whether you're a longtime lover of Balkan cuisine or new to its distinctive flavors, these restaurants promise a dining experience that’s both satisfying and sophisticated. Dive into the heart of Washington, D.C., and discover a world of culinary delights that await you in each of these Balkan-inspired eateries.

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Impressum
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable International Ltd. Alphabeta Building, 14-18 Finsbury Square, London EC2A 1AH - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo