Laken Brooks

With Memorial Day in the rearview, summer has finally descended on the District. It’s not quite swampy yet for mosquitoes, but we’ve already had our first thunderstorms, and the oddly cold weather has abated and given way to that sweet steaminess that marks the warmest season here. It’s not quite dire enough to hide inside the shelter of air-conditioned buildings, so I’m doing all the outdoor dining I can handle before heat and bugs chase me inside.  Part of what makes me love this city is the sense of togetherness and community, which permeates the restaurant scene. We’re a city of curious people who celebrate diverse cultures and take pride in doing so. The best restaurants in D.C. evoke this feeling of home and are safe spaces for you to be yourself around the people you love—all of which is especially grounding in chaotic times. The new additions to this list offer homey atmospheres. They’re celebrations of cultural cuisine that double as really great spots to make new memories with your loved ones. They include one longtime favorite and one newcomer that feels like it's destined to become a beloved staple. This June, make it your mission to eat at restaurants that make you feel like you belong. Read on for the 21 best restaurants in Washington, D.C. right now. June 2025: In this latest update, which highlights the best D.C. restaurants this month, we have added Mélange Food, Inc. and El Tamarindo. This guide was updated by D.C.-based writer Helen Carefoot. At Time Out, a

There's one thing nearly every visitor and resident of Washington, D.C. can agree on—we are a museum town. History buffs, art enthusiasts and people simply interested in America's past need to look no further than the nation's capital, which is chock-full of cultural institutions worth visiting whether you're here for a day or have been for years—many of which are free to enjoy, we might add.  The sheer number of worth-it museums in the District can feel overwhelming, but don't worry, because we're here to guide you through the spaces and galleries you simply can't miss. if you like learning—or at least looking at some seriously cool and beautiful objects—I promise there is a museum for you on this list, which encompasses art, history, interior design, pop culture, literature, and even old nuclear missiles. Read on for the 20 best museums in Washington, D.C. RECOMMENDED:📍 The best things to do in Washington, D.C.🏛️ The best Washington, D.C. attractions🍴 The best restaurants in D.C. right now🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Washington, D.C.💰 The best cheap hotels in Washington, D.C. This guide was written by Washington, D.C. locals. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.