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🍽️ DC Dining Faves: From Hidden Gems to Iconic Eateries 🌟

24 items

Sabrin Saif Fisher

Ready to eat your way through the capital? This curated list highlights the must-try restaurants in Washington, DC—whether you’re craving Michelin-star indulgence, cozy neighborhood vibes, or flavor-packed street eats. Expect everything from upscale ...

Map

If you’re in the mood for a playful and intimate dining experience, Imperfect Chef’s Table should be on your radar. Tucked into a cozy space, it feels like being a guest in a chef’s home—creative, relaxed, and full of surprises. The tasting menu is ...

Imperfecto

My favorite ramen shop is a bit of a hike, up in the Petworth neighborhood, but it’s 100% worth it. They known for their flavorful broths and house-made noodles. The sleek, minimalist space is small but inviting, a great spot for a comforting, high-q...

Menya Hosaki

This is my favorite brunch in the city, and one of the best deals around! It’s only $36.99 for unlimited small plates, and everything here is absolutely delicious!(Unlimited drinks are only an additional $14.99) If you’re in the mood for warm, welco...

AMBAR Restaurant, Capitol Hill

My husband and I got married in New Orleans, and we absolutely love the food there, so going to Dauphine’s is always the next best thing to flying down there. If you’re craving the charm of a NoLa bistro right here in DC, Dauphine’s checks all the bo...

Dauphine’s

An institution, and one of the best Ethiopian restaurants in the city! Dukem has become my go-to spot when I’m craving bold, soulful Ethiopian flavors in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Walking in, the colorful woven tablecloths and friendly buzz of di...

Dukem Ethiopian Restaurant

If you’re craving cozy, soulful French-American cooking in a friendly neighborhood setting, Rosemary Bistro Cafe on Connecticut Avenue is a hidden gem I love. Tucked into a charming townhouse-style storefront, it feels both relaxed and refined—perfec...

Rosemary bistro cafe

If you’re ready for a night out that feels like an escape, La’ Shukran near Union Market is such a vibe. You enter through an alley and descend a tiled staircase with music and market sounds in the background—and suddenly you’re in this stunning, moo...

La' Shukran

A. Litteri is one of those DC gems that feels like stepping into another era—in the best way. Tucked away in a quiet corner near Union Market, it’s part old-school Italian grocer, part sandwich counter, and completely worth the visit. Walking in, yo...

A. Litteri, Inc.

If you’re in the mood for creative, seasonal cooking rooted in Chesapeake tradition, Shilling Canning Company is one of my favorite hidden gems. The space is bright and welcoming—high ceilings, cozy wood accents, and a charming bar area that overlook...

Shilling Canning Company: Home

✨ Bresca DC – A Modern Bistro with a Dash of Magic ✨ Dining at Bresca feels like being let in on a beautiful secret—tucked along 14th Street, this Michelin-starred gem masterfully blends French bistro charm with playful modernity. But what truly set...

BRESCA

☀️ Yellow Cafe – A Sunny Slice of the Levant in the Heart of DC ☀️ Tucked into the vibrant Georgetown neighborhood, Yellow Cafe is more than just a coffee shop—it’s a sun-drenched love letter to Levantine flavors, with a modern, playful twist. Every...

YELLOW

Bub & Pop’s DC – Big Flavor, Bigger Heart Previously tucked off Dupont Circle and in the process of moving to NoMa, Bub & Pop’s is the kind of place you almost want to keep secret—but the sandwiches are too good not to share. It’s a family-r...

Bub and Pop's

If you haven’t been to Honeymoon Chicken in Petworth yet—go. Immediately. It’s my go-to when I’m craving something indulgent but done right. The fried chicken is brined for 24 hours, super crispy on the outside, and unbelievably juicy on the inside. ...

Honeymoon Chicken

Jimmy T’s is one of those places you walk into and instantly feel like a regular—even if it’s your first time. It’s a tiny, old-school diner tucked in Capitol Hill that hasn’t changed much in decades, and that’s exactly the charm. I go for the corne...

Jimmy T's Place

If you’re looking for an elevated evening out, Rania in Penn Quarter should definitely be on your list. The space feels regal—gilded touches, moody lighting, and even cocktails that arrive under a cloud of smoke—but somehow it still feels warm and in...

Rania

If you’re in search of a cozy yet lively evening spot, Lucy Mercer Bar in Union Market is my go-to hidden gem. From the moment you walk in, the vibe feels like you’ve stumbled into a cool friend’s stylish living room—warm lighting, chic décor, and a ...

The Lucy Mercer Bar

If you’re craving a night of fiery bowls and underground vibes, Toki Underground on H Street is always one of my top picks. It’s a cozy, artsy little spot—think comic-covered walls, skateboard footrests, and just the right amount of grit and charm. ...

Toki Underground

If you’re looking for a spot that’s part café, part concept store, and wholly unforgettable, Maketto on H Street should be at the top of your list. Walking in, you instantly feel the energy—sleek industrial interiors, a light-filled courtyard, and ra...

Maketto

If you haven’t discovered Anju on 18th Street yet, consider this your nudge—it’s one of my favorite spots for modern Korean that’s cozy, creative, and full of heart. The space feels instantly warm and welcoming—brick walls, wood accents, and a downs...

Anju

If you’re craving an unforgettable night out, Rose’s Luxury on Capitol Hill is hands-down one of my all-time favorites. It’s tucked into a cozy townhouse, and the whole vibe—exposed brick, string lights, and a buzzing open kitchen—feels like an intim...

Rose's Luxury

If you’re craving a dramatic, modern izakaya experience, Shōtō is where it’s at. The space is stunning—ivy-covered walls, a striking lava-stone chandelier, sleek wood finishes, and a sushi counter that feels like its own stage. It’s the kind of place...

SHŌTŌ Washington DC

Sushi Taro is my go-to when I want a truly special sushi experience in DC. Tucked away just off 17th Street, it’s one of those places that feels unassuming from the outside but delivers absolute magic once you’re inside. The ambiance is calm and eleg...

Sushi Taro

If you’re in the mood for a fun, premium sushi experience that won’t take forever, Sushi by Bou is where I head. It’s sleek, buzzy, and perfectly sized—just 12 seats around a minimalist counter, which means you’re right in the action. The omakase he...

Sushi By Bou- DC @ CitizenM Hotel L'enfant Plaza

If you’re craving classic DC charm and a hearty, no-fuss meal, Martin’s Tavern in Georgetown is a timeless pick I always enjoy. From the moment you step inside, you’re met with rich wood paneling, cozy booths, and black-and-white photos lining the wa...

Martin's Tavern