Introduction
Washington DC is a city that offers up everything from classic American eats to international flavors. With so many options, it can be hard to know where to start when it comes to finding the best places to eat in the District. Luckily, we’ve got you covered. This comprehensive guide to must eat in Washington DC takes you through the ultimate restaurant crawl, giving you the scoop on must-try restaurants, unique dishes, food tours, and even insider tips from local chefs.
Restaurant Crawl Through the District: A Guide to Washington DC’s Must-Eat Spots
If you’re looking for a comprehensive guide to the best places to eat in Washington DC, then a restaurant crawl is the perfect place to start. The District is home to some of the most iconic eateries in the country, from high-end restaurants to cozy neighborhood bistros. Here’s a look at some of the must-try restaurants in the District.
Where to Get Started
The first stop on your restaurant crawl should be one of the city’s many iconic eateries. Whether it’s a Michelin-starred restaurant or a classic diner, you’ll find something to satisfy your appetite. Some of the top picks include The Source by Wolfgang Puck, Rose’s Luxury, The Oval Room, and Old Ebbitt Grill.
Must-Try Restaurants
No trip to Washington DC would be complete without a visit to some of the city’s most beloved restaurants. Make sure to add these must-try spots to your list: Ben’s Chili Bowl, Zaytinya, The Red Hen, and Le Diplomate. And don’t forget to sample some famous DC cupcakes — Georgetown Cupcake and Baked & Wired are two of the city’s top bakeries.
5 Uniquely DC Dishes You Have to Try
Washington DC has its own unique culinary scene, and there are some dishes that are quintessentially “DC.” From half smokes to crab cakes, here are five uniquely DC dishes you have to try when you’re in town.
Famous DC Dishes
Half smokes are one of the most iconic dishes in Washington DC. These spicy smoked sausages are served with chili and onions and are a favorite of locals. Another classic is the Chesapeake Bay crab cake, which is made with lump crab meat and served with tartar sauce. Other must-try dishes include the oyster po’boy, the half-smoke pizza, and the pepperoni roll.
Where to Sample These Dishes
To get a taste of these classic DC dishes, head to Ben’s Chili Bowl, which has been serving up half smokes since 1958. For a more upscale take on the half smoke, try the version at The Source by Wolfgang Puck. For oysters, head to Hank’s Oyster Bar, and for crab cakes, try Fiola Mare. Finally, for a unique twist on the pepperoni roll, try the version at 2Amys Pizzeria.
Take a Food Tour of the Nation’s Capital: Where to Eat in Washington DC
Food tours are a great way to explore the culinary scene in Washington DC. There are a variety of tours available, from walking tours to bus tours, and each one will give you an inside look at the city’s eats. Here’s a look at different types of food tours, as well as some of the popular tour locations.
Different Types of Tours
There are several different types of food tours in Washington DC. Walking tours are a great way to explore the city on foot while sampling some of the best eats. Bus tours are ideal for those who want to cover more ground and sample a wider variety of dishes. Private tours are also available for those who want a more personalized experience.
Popular Tour Locations
Popular tour locations in Washington DC include Chinatown, Capitol Hill, Dupont Circle, and Adams Morgan. Each area offers up its own unique culinary experiences, and no matter which tour you choose, you’re sure to find some delicious dishes.
The Best Eats in Every Neighborhood in Washington DC
Washington DC is home to a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own unique flavor. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Chinatown or the cobblestone alleys of Georgetown, there are plenty of delicious eats to be found. Here’s a look at where to find the best eats in each neighborhood.
Where to Find Local Favorites
In Chinatown, make sure to try the dim sum at Ping Pong Dim Sum and the pho at Pho 75. In Georgetown, the must-try dish is the lobster roll at The Tombs. In Dupont Circle, the go-to spot is The Bird for fried chicken sandwiches. And in Adams Morgan, the local favorite is the tacos at Taqueria Habanero.
Popular Eateries by Neighborhood
For more traditional fare, head to the Capitol Hill neighborhood and sample the burgers at Good Stuff Eatery or the sandwiches at Taylor Gourmet. In Georgetown, the classic spot is 1789 Restaurant, and in Dupont Circle, make sure to try the pasta at Al Tiramisu. Finally, in Adams Morgan, be sure to grab a bite at Amsterdam Falafelshop or The Diner.
An Insider’s Guide to the Local Favorite Restaurants in Washington DC
Washington DC is home to some of the most iconic eateries in the country, but there are also plenty of hidden gems and local favorites that are worth seeking out. Here’s an insider’s guide to the best places to eat in the District.
Hidden Gems and Iconic Restaurants
Some of the best restaurants in Washington DC are the ones that fly under the radar. Be sure to check out Kinship for modern American cuisine, Tail Up Goat for Mediterranean-inspired dishes, and Little Serow for Thai-style small plates. For more iconic eateries, head to the National Mall and visit the Old Ebbitt Grill or The Hay-Adams Hotel.
Insider Tips on Where to Go
When it comes to finding the best restaurants in Washington DC, it pays to have an insider’s perspective. Ask the locals where they like to eat, and don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path. Some of the top picks include the Mexican restaurant El Sol, the Italian spot Sfoglina, and the French bistro Le Diplomat.
A Chef’s Guide to the Best Places to Eat in Washington DC
If you’re looking for the ultimate guide to must eat in Washington DC, then a chef’s guide is the way to go. From high-end restaurants to hole-in-the-wall spots, here are some of the top picks from local chefs.
Top Picks from Chefs
According to chef and restaurateur Fabio Trabocchi, some of the best restaurants in Washington DC include The Source by Wolfgang Puck, Obelisk, Fiola Mare, and Del Mar. Chef José Andrés recommends his own restaurants, Jaleo and Zaytinya, as well as fellow Spanish restaurant Estadio. And chef Aaron Silverman recommends Pineapple and Pearls, Rose’s Luxury, and Bad Saint.
Specialties to Try
When dining at these restaurants, be sure to try some of the signature dishes. At The Source, the must-try dish is the crispy pork belly. At Obelisk, the ricotta gnudi is a must. At Fiola Mare, the seafood risotto is a crowd favorite. And at Del Mar, you can’t go wrong with the wood-fired octopus.
Dining Out in Washington DC: What You Shouldn’t Miss
When it comes to dining out in Washington DC, there are some experiences that you simply can’t miss. From rooftop bars to waterfront restaurants, here are some of the must-visit eateries in the city.
Must-Visit Restaurants
Head to the W Hotel for drinks at POV, the rooftop bar with stunning views of the city. Or, for an unforgettable dinner, try Fiola Mare for its incredible seafood dishes. Other must-visit restaurants include The Red Hen, Komi, and The Smith.
Don’t Miss Dining Experiences
If you’re looking for a truly unique dining experience, then you won’t want to miss the pop-up dinners at Fancy Radish. Or, for a more low-key evening, try the beer garden at The Sovereign. And if you’re looking for a romantic dinner, be sure to check out The Watergate Hotel’s Top of the Gate.
Conclusion
Washington DC is full of incredible restaurants, from iconic eateries to hidden gems. With this comprehensive guide to must eat in Washington DC, you’ll be able to explore the city’s culinary scene like a pro. From restaurant crawls to food tours, there’s something to satisfy every appetite in the District.
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