DC Dining: Your Go-To Guide for the Top 5 Food & Drink Spots in Washington, D.C.
So, you’re planning a trip to Washington, D.C., or maybe you actually live here and are looking to mix up your dining experience? As a local, I get asked all the time for suggestions. What’s a great spot for brunch? Where should you celebrate a special occasion? Where can you grab an expertly made cocktail after touring all the monuments? This guide cuts to the chase with my top five recommendations for food and drink in D.C. – these spots are tried, tested, and guaranteed to impress. Get ready, these eateries have great food that hits differently.
1. Old Ebbitt Grill: A Historic Powerhouse That’s Still Got It
First up, is Old Ebbitt Grill. Near the White House, it is more or less a D.C. landmark and a perfect way to enjoy historic scenery while dining in an iconic venue. Opened all the way back in 1856, it claims to be D.C.’s oldest saloon, which is really saying something. You might come for the history but you stay for the food. The oyster selection is seriously top-notch, with a raw bar that can satisfy just about any craving. The menu is huge, covering everything from burgers to steaks to pasta dishes. Everyone can find something to please their palates! As I was saying, what seriously makes Old Ebbitt great is the atmosphere; it’s a lively place with dark wood interiors, brass fixtures, and a real sense of history. Just a bit loud in there too, which adds to the experience. This is exactly where you can imagine politicians cutting deals over drinks, maybe even in days past. Old Ebbitt Grill could be the spot to embrace both the historic and vibrant side of D.C.
What to Order?
For first-timers, I typically suggest starting with oysters from the raw bar. It’s almost impossible to go wrong here. After that, I’d recommend their crab cakes or the Wienerschnitzel. Just a little something from their extensive beer and wine list makes for the perfect finish.
2. Fiola Mare: Waterfront Dining at Its Best
Located right on the Georgetown waterfront, Fiola Mare offers a dining experience that is really hard to beat when it comes to special scenery. You’re close to the water, and as you are probably aware the views are amazing, especially during sunset. That, too, with its sophisticated setting, creates an inviting feel, but the real draw here is the seafood. Fiola Mare definitely highlights Italian flavors with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. That being said, you are paying for that gorgeous location. But that view alone might just make the expense worthwhile, though. They really go the extra mile there, so a truly unique offering.
What to Order?
If you want to get the real experience, I strongly recommend the seafood tasting menu. That could be the perfect option to sample several dishes and experience the chef’s creativity. The lobster ravioli is also very popular, which may be for good reason. And trust me, they have an extensive wine list that is going to complement anything you order.
3. Rose’s Luxury: Small Plates, Big Flavors
Tucked away on Barracks Row, Rose’s Luxury is still a popular spot known for its innovative small plates, though, so you can try quite a few different items and find something for everybody in your group. You could describe the style as American with international influences, plus they have a great knack for blending unexpected flavors that really work so well. The restaurant itself has a very cozy vibe. When the weather allows it, the rooftop patio is where you really want to be. Note, though, Rose’s Luxury has become famous, that there is often a wait, particularly during peak hours, but I’d still say it is a spot that’s hard to miss in the D.C. food scene if you have a little patience.
What to Order?
The menu could change pretty often, still the pastas are always a success. As a matter of fact, many swear by the pork sausage and habanero pasta dish when available. All things considered, my advice would be to be open to whatever sounds good because you are more or less in for a treat. Seriously, give anything a go that looks good to you, since everything they prepare is awesome and the chefs are highly regarded for their dishes and combinations of textures and flavors!
4. The Columbia Room: Cocktails Elevated
Looking for some fancy drinks? Then you should check out The Columbia Room. This place takes cocktails seriously. Actually, it may be one of the city’s best spots for unique cocktail menus. You’re looking at a place where the bartenders could almost be called scientists, developing some original infusions and combinations, so there’s plenty to like here. It’s an intimate space, in some respects, which only adds to its exclusive feel. It’s really the place to impress someone on a date, or, perhaps just enjoy a sophisticated drink alone. Also, if you want more than just some ordinary highballs, there’s plenty here. Really, Columbia Room stands out thanks to its high level of craftsmanship and creative take on classic cocktail creation.
What to Order?
They usually offer a tasting menu with perfectly paired cocktails, so if you’re undecided this is an option worth considering. Or you can chat with your bartender so you can find the drink that matches what your preferences are like at that moment!
5. Ben’s Chili Bowl: A D.C. Institution
No list of D.C. dining would even feel complete without mentioning Ben’s Chili Bowl. It has been a U Street landmark now since 1958, Ben’s has seen it all! It’s more or less a casual, no-frills spot, but it has history behind it that just about any visitor wants to taste! Ben’s definitely rose to fame for its half-smokes smothered in chili, and trust me, it’s actually a staple, basically, and still as tasty as you can probably guess. So many people feel like you cannot visit D.C. and not stop by to see this spot! If you ever needed a quick, satisfying, and inexpensive meal, then there is actually Ben’s Chili Bowl! When you stop here, there’s plenty for any traveler to love.
What to Order?
You want the original chili half-smoke; it is as D.C. as it truly gets! You can add cheese, onions, and mustard if you are interested, and grab a milkshake. All of it can make for the perfect combination.