A Foodie’s Guide to Washington, DC’s Must-Visit Restaurants

Washington, DC, isn’t just the U.S. capital—it’s also a culinary powerhouse, boasting Michelin-starred restaurants, James Beard Award-winning chefs, and local RAMMY accolades (The RAMMYS – Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington awards recognize outstanding restaurants, individuals, and organizations in the Washington, DC area). Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or a traveler seeking unforgettable dining experiences, DC’s restaurant scene promises an adventure of flavors, craftsmanship, and innovation. If you’re looking for the best restaurants Washington, DC has to offer, this guide will help you discover top spots for fine dining, from sustainable cuisine to modern interpretations of global flavors. Whether you’re seeking Michelin-starred restaurants or simply amazing places to eat, we’ve got you covered with the city’s top culinary hotspots.

MITA (Shaw)

A Star-Studded Latin American Culinary Journey

At MITA, chefs Tatiana Mora and Miguel Guerra have made history as Venezuela’s rising culinary stars, earning their first Michelin star. Their vegetable-forward tasting menu brings Latin American ingredients to the forefront, offering dishes like wild rice chicharrónes, Andean root vegetables, and the uniquely Amazonian chontaduro fruit. Every dish is an elegant blend of tradition and innovation, making MITA a must-visit for those seeking an elevated take on Latin American cuisine.

Must-Try Dish: The reinvented chicharrónes made from wild rice—crispy, flavorful, and utterly unique.

Omakase @ Barracks Row (Capitol Hill)

An Intimate Michelin-Starred Sushi Experience

For sushi lovers, Omakase @ Barracks Row is an essential stop. Helmed by Chef Yi “Ricky” Wang, who honed his craft at Sushi Nakazawa and minibar by José Andrés, this Michelin-starred spot offers an immersive experience in Japanese cuisine. Expect 20 meticulously crafted courses of otsumami (snacking plates) and exquisite nigiri, blending classic techniques with modern touches.

Must-Try Dish: The ever-changing selection of seasonal nigiri, showcasing the freshest seafood available.

Oyster Oyster (Shaw)

A Sustainability Pioneer with a Green Michelin Star

Oyster Oyster is a trailblazer in sustainable dining, earning DC’s first Michelin Green Star for its commitment to environmentally friendly practices. The menu highlights locally foraged mushrooms, farm-fresh vegetables, and Chesapeake Bay oysters, all crafted into plant-forward dishes that redefine fine dining.

Must-Try Dish: Chesapeake Bay oysters—ethically sourced and bursting with briny goodness.

Albi (Navy Yard)

A Levantine Love Letter to Open-Flame Cooking

Chef Michael Rafidi’s Albi (which means “heart” in Arabic) brings soulful Levantine cuisine to DC. The open-flame cooking method elevates dishes like fire-kissed lamb kebabs, lump crab tabouli, and sumac bok choy. Rafidi’s expertise and passion recently earned him the 2024 James Beard Foundation’s Outstanding Chef Award.

Must-Try Dish: Smoked belly lamb kebabs—charred to perfection and bursting with Middle Eastern flavors.

Perry’s Restaurant (Adams Morgan)

A Historic Spot with a Modern Japanese Twist

Perry’s has been a community favorite for over 40 years, best known for its vibrant drag brunches and rooftop dining. Under Chef Masako Morishita, the menu now blends Japanese comfort food with innovative twists. Her culinary prowess has earned her accolades, including the James Beard Emerging Chef Award and the RAMMY Rising Culinary Star title.

Must-Try Dish: Udon carbonara—a creamy, umami-packed take on the Italian classic with a Japanese twist.

Anju (Dupont Circle)

A Modern Take on Traditional Korean Cuisine

Anju, led by Executive Chef Angel Barreto, reinvents Korean flavors with creative techniques. Recognized by the James Beard Foundation and Food & Wine, Barreto has solidified Anju as a go-to destination for bold, unforgettable flavors.

Must-Try Dish: Fried chicken with jujube mole, white barbecue sauce, and spicy gochujang—a fusion of sweet, smoky, and spicy notes.

Causa (Shaw)

A Peruvian Culinary Journey

Chef Carlos Delgado’s Causa takes diners through Peru’s diverse landscapes, from the coastline to the Andes Mountains. The six-course tasting menu showcases the country’s rich culinary heritage, with fresh seafood and exotic flavors.

Must-Try Dish: The signature ceviche—bright, tangy, and deeply satisfying.

minibar by José Andrés (Penn Quarter)

A Molecular Gastronomy Wonderland

For an avant-garde dining experience, minibar by José Andrés offers a multi-course journey through molecular gastronomy. This intimate spot is one of DC’s hardest reservations to snag, but the experience is nothing short of magical.

Must-Try Dish: Expect the unexpected—each dish is a work of art.

Rania (Penn Quarter)

A Royal Indian Dining Experience

At Rania, Chef Chetan Shetty reinvents Indian fine dining with a luxurious three- or four-course menu featuring dishes like saffron-infused beef short ribs and charred maitake mushrooms. The name “Rania” means “queen,” and every dish here is fit for royalty.

Must-Try Dish: Saffron nihari with beef short ribs—a rich, aromatic delight.

Imperfecto: The Chef’s Table (West End)

A Greek Latin Fusion Like No Other

Chef Enrique Limardo blends Greek influences with Latin American flavors at Imperfecto, creating a one-of-a-kind fine dining experience. The Chef’s Table offers 10 exquisite courses, including caramelized king crab with caviar and strawberry-mushroom duck breast.

Must-Try Dish: Kampachi sea tartare—a delicate yet flavor-packed dish.

Final Bite

DC’s dining scene is as diverse as the city itself, offering an unparalleled mix of global flavors, sustainable innovations, and world-class techniques. Whether you’re indulging in a Michelin-starred tasting menu or savoring a plate of locally sourced oysters, every meal in DC tells a story. If you’re looking for the best restaurants Washington, DC has to offer or simply want to explore new places to eat in Washington, DC, this guide has you covered.

Ready to eat your way through DC? Let us know which restaurant you’re most excited to try!

Foodie’s Guide to Washington, DC FAQs

1. What are the best restaurants in Washington, DC?

Washington, DC is home to a vibrant culinary scene, including Michelin-starred restaurants like minibar by José Andrés, Jônt, and Albi. Other top-rated spots include The Dabney, Fiola, and Rose’s Luxury.

2. Are there Michelin-star restaurants in Washington, DC?

Yes, DC boasts several Michelin-starred restaurants, including MITA, Omakase @ Barracks Row, and Pineapple and Pearls. These establishments offer world-class dining experiences with innovative menus and exceptional service.

What are the best fine dining restaurants in Washington, DC?

For an elevated dining experience, consider Imperfecto: The Chef’s Table, Kinship, Métier, or Xiquet. These fine-dining spots provide exquisite dishes, carefully curated tasting menus, and luxurious atmospheres.

Where can I find the best seafood in Washington, DC?

Seafood lovers should check out restaurants like Sushi Nakazawa for omakase-style sushi, Oyster Oyster for sustainable oysters, and Fiola for Italian-inspired seafood dishes.

What are some unique places to eat in Washington, DC?

If you’re looking for something unique, try Anju for modern Korean cuisine, Causa for a Peruvian culinary journey, or Rania for a contemporary twist on Indian food.

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