The best restaurants in Washington, D.C. right now

What is it? Technique is of the essence at famed chef Kwame Onwuachi’s loving survey of his Afro-Caribbean heritage. Expect dishes inspired by Nigeria, Trinidad, Jamaica and the American South, presented through a refined lens. 

Why we love it: A youthful vibe with suitably big flavor makes Dõgon one of the city’s most fun places for a special occasion. Prices may keep this restaurant in the realm of a once-a-year treat (bread plates start at $15 and entrees climb to $105 for the wagyu short rib awaze), but the genial staff and intensely flavorful creations from the back of house will make you want to return far sooner. Don’t miss the sweet-and-spicy piri piri salad and herb-topped chicken and rice. 

Time Out tip: Teetotalers can sample beverage partner Derek Brown’s tipples in the form of the “Low & No” menu, which features alcohol-free or lower-alcohol drinks such as the spiced-pineapple-flavored Get Your Flowers.

Address: 1330 Maryland Ave. SW, Washington, D.C. 20024

Opening hours: Tue-Sat 5pm–9:45pm (last seating)

What is it? A Georgetown neo-bistro from Popal Group chef Matt Conroy, known for its inventive, seasonal menus and desserts from pastry chef Ana Sofia Pino. 

Why we love it: With early roots at locavore New England restaurants, Conroy regularly changes his bills of fare to reflect what’s freshest at regional farms. Why dine here rather than his also-memorable Mexican spot, Pascual or Popal Group’s latest, Maison Bar à Vins? Frankly, you should be going to all three, but the eldest sibling is notable for its simplicity.

Whether it’s Orvia duck with housemade sausage, beets and sauce bigarade, or Coss’ sticky toffee pudding with medjool dates and ginger ice cream, the dishes are effortlessly delicious. Weekend lunch is one of the best in the city, with most dishes ringing up at less than $30, including the $26 burger and fries. The combination of dry-aged beef and two-year-old cheddar with umami Dijon miso may send you back to bed for a nap, but first, you’ll be making reservations for dinner tout de suite.

Time Out tip: Intimidated by the menu? Try the Chef's Choice, which gets you four courses for $125 per person.

Address: 1522 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20007

Opening hours: Thu, Sun, Mon 5pm–8:30pm (last seating); Fri, Sat 5pm–9:30pm (last seating); Sat, Sun brunch 11am–2:30pm

What is it? A modern Vietnamese aesthetic meets chef-owner Kevin Tien’s Louisiana childhood at his restaurant, where tipping on top of the service charge is optional. 

Why we love it: Tien, co-owner Judy Beltrano, and pastry chef Susan Bae have made it their mission to remix Vietnamese dishes by combining classic techniques with unexpected, up-to-date flavors. 

The inventive results may include dishes such as Tien’s fusion of New Orleans’ favorite sandwich, the muffaletta, and slippery Vietnamese rice noodle rolls, banh uot.  Even his pâté chaud, a staple at Vietnamese bakeries, is given the fine-dining treatment with braised rabbit forming its centerpiece, along with black truffle and a witty inclusion of carrot agrodolce. 

Time Out tip: Save room for dessert. The Curry, featuring green-curry sponge cake and fish-sauce caramel, may sound daunting, but it tastes like a treat. 

Address: 927 F St. NW, Washington, D.C., 20002

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 5-9:30pm; Fri, Sat 5–10pm

What is it? A woman-run, farm-to-table restaurant near Eastern Market, best known for its rotisserie. 

Why we love it: Duck is an underrated protein that finds infinite respect here. For $180, smart couples order the Duck Feast. Centered around Pennsylvania-bred Jurgielewicz Duck, served with orange, watercress, and scallion, the meal also includes two other courses meant to be shared by two. 

Dining solo or with a group? No shame in that game when you can assemble a meal of any size from seasonal plates like yellowtail crudo in coconut vinaigrette, frisée salad with Bartlett pears, and a squash tartine topped with drunken goat cheese.

Time Out tip: Neighborhood pasta slinger La Collina and cocktail specialist The Wells operate out of the same kitchen, with the same ethics. Try them all for a look at what the team has achieved since opening in 2021.

Address: 300 7th St. SE, Washington, D.C. 20003

Opening hours: Tue–Fri 5-10pm; Sat 9am–2:30pm, 5–10pm; Sun 9am–2:30pm

What is it? A Michelin star, #1 spots on the lists of multiple local publications, and a place among North America’s 50 Best, according to The World’s 50 Best, can’t be wrong. This chic Palestinian restaurant has got serious culinary cred. 

Why we love it: Albi means "my heart" in Arabic, and it's very clear that chef and owner Michael Rafidi means it. He sends out plates that double as art and meld local ingredients with flavors inspired by his upbringing in Ramallah, Palestine. 

Thanks to a wood-burning hearth in the dining room, fire kisses many of the best dishes. Melt-in-your-mouth lamb kebabs feature both loin and adipose belly, which are simultaneously sweet and spicy, courtesy of fermented chile honey. Sweets are also standouts—the floral knafeh with huckleberry sorbet is a stretchy, crunchy made-to-order experience. 

Time Out tip: Albi’s prices reflect its fine-dining cred, but the $145 Sofra experience is one way to make the meal more economical while also witnessing the culinary team’s prowess up close. 

Address: 1346 4th St. SE, Washington, D.C. 20003

Opening hours: Tue-Sun 5-10pm

What is it? Craving red sauce? Chef Matt Adler's Capitol Hill restaurant is a love letter to Italian American cooking. 

Why we love it: The menu at Caruso's Grocery is filled with classics made with markedly fresh ingredients and mastered with cheffy skills; the snappy, thinly pounded chicken Parmigiana swims in marinara sauce, and the creamy Alfredo is woven with chunks of mushroom and flavored with truffle butter. End with the Nutella cannoli even if you don’t usually crave the crispy dessert.

Time Out tip: Two words: Mozzarella sticks. Adler recently announced that he will offer the cheesy treats on an off-menu, limited basis each night, so arrive early to snag yours, served with fra diavola and basil pesto sauces for flavorful dipping. 

Address: 914 14th St. SE, Washington, D.C., 20003

Opening hours: Tue–Sun 5–10pm; Sun 5–9:30pm

What is it? Restaurateur Jeanine Prime brings the fusion flavors of Trinidad to U Street at this Michelin-recognized sister restaurant to Caribbean street food spot Cane.  

Why we love it: Because of its cultural diversity, the island of Trinidad offers a little bit of everything for a diner craving outsized flavor. Despite its deep green, callaloo soup is creamy with coconut milk and spiked with chilies, an ideal introduction to Caribbean flavors. The pork pate opens the meal with Trini-Chinese flavors, while the restaurant’s famous duck and dhal amplify the island’s Indian heritage. And macaroni pie? Get it to taste American fare through a Trinidadian’s palate.  

Time Out tip: St. James is a happy-hour hero. Nosh on $9 jerk wings, which marinate for 12 hours before they’re smoked, or $8 crab fritters Tuesday through Thursday from 5:30-7pm. Drinks run about $10.

Address: 2017 14th St. NW, Washington, D.C., 20009

Opening hours: Tue–Thu 5:30-10pm; Fri 5:30-11:30pm; Sat 1-11:30pm; Sun 1-9pm

What is it? The word “diner” in the name might be a bit of a swerve. Despite a fabulous burger, the cuisine at L’Ardente chef David Deshaies’ casual restaurant is far more interesting than its moniker suggests. 

Why we love it: From 8am each morning to 10pm every night, there is a home for hungry souls with high standards near the highly trafficked, but less-than-gourmet area around the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. 

At any time of day, Lebanese fried rice, with its well-spiced collection of lentils and almonds with a fried egg and tangy yogurt, is a worthy meal, especially with a side of falafel. At dinner, Peking duck confit is a fun, do-it-yourself meal complete with steamed buns and vegetables for stuffing therein.

Time Out tip: Want breakfast for dinner? While the brunch menu ends at 3:45pm, a few dishes, including the sweet potato shakshuka and buttermilk pancakes with blueberry-lavender sauce, remain into the night.

Address: 1207 9th St NW, Washington, D.C. 20001

Opening hours: Daily 8am–10pm

What is it? Imaginative Korean cooking comes from the active minds of The Fried Rice Collective, headed by chefs Scott Drewno and Danny Lee and executed by chef Angel Barreto.

Why we love it: Creative versions of Korean classics make this Dupont neighborhood restaurant stand out from the fare in nearby Northern Virginia Koreatowns. Dishes that sound familiar usually come with a fresh twist. 

For example, the heat of the gochujang glaze on the Korean fried chicken, simply identified as Chikin on the menu, is tempered by a generous drizzle of white BBQ sauce. Mandu includes pork-and-kimchi and Impossible meat versions, but also a chicken version that’s flavored with fennel, sage, and Granny Smith apple. 

Time Out tip: There’s more seating than appears at first glance, so if you’re not able to score a reservation online, don’t despair. Walk-ins are welcome.

Address: 1805 18th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20009

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 5–9pm; Fri 5–10pm; Sat 11am–1:30pm, 5-10pm; Sun 11am–1:30pm, 5-9pm

What is it? Chef Elias Taddesse may be trained in a French tradition, but his Ethiopian heritage is what informs the three concepts at his spice-packed fusion restaurant. 

Why we love it: Because you need to taste The National to believe it. Mélange’s signature sandwich features spicy doro-wat-inspired fried chicken with kebe aioli, crunchy turmeric slaw, and an egg that you can request cooked hard or oozing yolk. Ethiopian spices also find their way into the fried chicken at Doro, where spiced mac-and-cheese is topped with crumbs of tangy injera flatbread. 

The newest addition, Moya Ethiopian Mexican cuisine, is gaining notice for its tacos, filled with proteins doused in the earthy spices that work equally well in both cuisines. The beefy Birria Wot, held in its shell with Chihuahua cheese, is a must. 

Time Out tip: This restaurant shares a building with Landmark's Atlantic Plumbing Cinema and is right around the corner from the 9:30 Club, making it an ideal location to grab a relatively inexpensive meal before a movie or show. 

Address: 2108 8th St. NW, Washington, D.C., 20001

Opening hours: Fri, Sat noon–10pm; Sun-Thu noon–9pm

What is it? Albi chef Michael Rafidi turns out idiosyncratic pastries and pita sandwiches at two locations, one in Georgetown and one in Union Market.

Why we love it: Rafidi’s breakfasts, such as a za’atar-and-labneh-flavored croissants and wood-fired shakshuka, get most of the attention, but each location has its own mouthwatering personality at dinner. 

In Georgetown, Yellow (Not) Pizza serves up 12-inch pies topped with Middle Eastern ingredients along the lines of beefy sujuk sausage. Diners are encouraged to save the crusts for housemade hummus. At the Union Market spot, All the Kebabs is more like a little brother to Albi, with skewered meats, vegetables, and cheeses all making appearances atop wood-baked shatta flatbread.  

Time Out tip: Yellow has its own coffee director, Ayat Elhag, so sip some of the best examples of trendy Arabic coffee culture with drinks like the golden date latte. 

Address: Georgetown: 1524 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Washington, D.C., 20007; Union Market: 17 Morse St. NE, Washington, D.C., 20002

Opening hours: Tue–Sat 8am-3pm, 4-9pm; Sun, Mon 8am-3pm. 

What is it? Husband and wife team chef Henji Cheung and sommelier Sarah Thompson serve elevated Hong Kong-inspired food and drinks in Columbia Heights.

Why we love it: The menu may change frequently, but we’ve come to rely on the presence of chocolate Szechuan ice cream with elderflower whipped cream and birthday sprinkles. To make it a truly special occasion, the restaurant offers to add “a delightfully oversized sparkler.” Thompson's lovingly curated natural wine list features varietals that pair nicely with each offering, including savory bites such as crispy whole branzino with crab butter and chile sauce, drunken duck noodles, and earthy truffle dumplings.

Time Out tip: The “No Willpower Hour” allows diners to sip $8 cocktails every day from opening until 7pm. 

Address: 3410 11th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20010

Opening hours: Tue-Thu 5:30pm-9pm; Fri, Sat 5-9:30pm

What is it? A quirky pair of sandwich shops known for serving 10-inch subs with creative ingredient combinations.

Why we love it: Those craving a classic Italian sub won’t know what hit ‘em. The friendly crew behind the counter piles fresh ingredients onto soft bread to create unusual subs that are as much fun as the vintage-decor-filled shop where they’re assembled. 

The Crunchy Boi, a messy pile of potato chips, lettuce, garlic mayo, turkey, provolone, and onions, may have a social following, but we’re partial to the Marisa Tomei Eats Free. It combines Genoa salami, capicola, fresh mozzarella, basil-and-arugula salad, and honey-chile aioli. 

Time Out tip: Don’t immediately toss your paper takeout bag—a Frooties candy awaits at the bottom for a sweet-and-tangy mini dessert.

Address: 2029 P St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20036 (Dupont Circle) and 526 8th St. SE, Ste. A, Washington, D.C. 20003 (Capitol Hill)

Opening hours: Vary by location

What is it? Caruso’s Grocery chef Matt Adler's ode to Italy's Southern coast serves some of the lightest and brightest Italian dishes you'll find in D.C.

Why we love it: Delicate yet toothsome house pasta dishes are available in appetizer or entree sizes here, meaning it’s possible to self-curate a noodle tasting that includes everything from Sicilian-style paccheri alla Norma to rigatoni coated in lamb ragù. Crudi so fresh they could swim off the plate deserve a place on your table, too, especially fennel-crusted tuna with shaved celery. 

When the weekend rolls around, Cucina Morini becomes Caffé Morini, a brunch destination that serves eggs, panini, toasts, and morning cocktails. Informed eaters take advantage of the grab-and-go cappuccino and cornetto deal for $10. The flaky cornetti are hand-filled with either chocolate, vanilla, pistachio, or tiramisu pastry cream.

Time Out tip: The massive 18-seat bar and lounge is beloved for its $7 martini deal. 

Address: 901 4th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20001

Opening hours: Mon-Thu 5-9:30pm; Fri, Sat 5-10:30pm; Sun 5-9pm

What is it? Political powerbrokers pack the woven bistro chairs of this French café and restaurant that’s been a beloved D.C. fixture since 2005. 

Why we love it: “Le Dip” is what every upscale French bistro should be—inviting, cozy, and indulgent. Order whatever happens to be the plat du jour or a Gruyère-filled omelette over a power lunch, or really flex with a Grand Plateau filled with briny treats from the ocean. As darkness falls, diners start with classics like escargots à la Bourguignonne or onion soup gratinée, feast on steak frites, then finish with a crackling, creamy pistachio-raspberry mille-feuille. 

Time Out tip: If you collect matchbooks, be sure to ask the host for one from Le Diplomate. 

Address: 1601 14th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20009

Opening hours: Mon-Thu 11:30-3pm, 5-11pm; Fri 11:30am-3pm, 5pm-midnight; Sat 9:30am-midnight; Sun 9:30am-11pm

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What is it? The DMV is home to the largest Ethiopian population outside of Africa, and as a result, we are blessed with many exceptional Ethiopian restaurants. This treasure in Petworth is known for its laid-back atmosphere and hearty Ethiopian breakfast. 

Why we love it: There's no better balm after a wild night out than tucking into one of Heat Da Spot's breakfast platters. Stacked high on one plate, they come with an array of foods, including spiced scrambled eggs cooked with peppers and onions, plus spicy beef tibs, and a scroll of spongy fermented injera to soak it all up.

Avoiding berbere and other strong Ethiopian spices this morning? You’ll still be pleased with American breakfast sandwiches, like sausage, egg, and cheese on a fluffy biscuit. 

Time Out tip: Getting takeout? Cross the street and walk about half a block to Doubles, where you'll order a coffee to accompany your platter. You'll never feel more alive than you will after this combo.

Address: 3213 Georgia Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20010

Opening hours: Tue-Sun 8:30am-3pm

What is it? One of the most beloved cocktail bars in the city, this popular U Street gathering spot also serves thoughtful American pub grub. 

Why we love it: Happy hour doesn’t get much better than at this watering hole. It’s available from both 5 to 7pm Tuesday through Friday and 11pm to 2am Tuesday through Thursday. During that time, expect daiquiris for just $9 as well as a shot and a beer for $7. 

But don’t forget to eat. Chicken wings are carefully confit before they’re fried, mozzarella balls are made with local cheese, and the giant nachos are buried in guajillo-chile-soaked chicken. And those are just the appetizers. Don’t miss the juicy and crisp fried chicken thighs with mac and cheese, and green beans that have never been anywhere near a can. 

Time Out tip: It's always worth asking the bartenders about special or new menus; they may include enjoyable detours from your usual poison, like a zodiac-themed menu that includes libations for each star sign.

Address: 926 U St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20001

Opening hours: Tue-Thu 5pm-2am; Fri 5pm-3am; Sat 2pm-3am; Sun 4pm-2am

What is it? Nestled on a quiet corner in Georgetown, you’ll find some of the best French comfort food in the city in this likably low-key environment.

Why we love it: If the other, buzzier French spots in town are too much for you, know that you can disappear into this dining room (or at the bar) with a book and not be bothered.

The curated menu is filled with easy comfort foods like pillowy gougères that collapse when topped with whipped paprika cream cheese and the enviably tender steak tartare. Don't think you’re above ordering a burger here: They’re made using Pat La Frieda’s famous beef blend. Sample it in the form of the Burger Soupe à l’Oignon, which combines the best of both dishes at a very manageable $13.

Time Out tip: La Bonne Vache's cocktail offerings are all low-ABV drinks, meaning they're not as strong as at other spots. If you’re looking for full alcohol, order a glass of wine. 

Address: 3265 Prospect St. NW, Washington, D.C., 20007

Opening hours: Wed-Sun 11am-9pm

What is it? An Adams Morgan warhorse that's been serving top-notch Salvadoran food in a large corner space since 1982.

Why we love it: El Tamarindo, affectionately called "El Tam" by locals, is the perfect neighborhood restaurant: There always seems to be a table for you despite how busy it gets, and the lengthy menu is full of hits that go well beyond pupusas. 

You could fill up on nothing but dishes from the “Salvadoran Snacks” section of the menu, which includes fried sweet plantains, sweet-corn tamales, and our favorite, the yuca con chicharron—oil-crisped pork belly with spears of crunchy cassava that’s better than any French fry. Accompany it with a strong cocktail or a fresco de ensalada, a chunky fresh juice punch.

Time Out tip: Service can be slow here, so plan to come when you have time to soak in the good vibes.

Address: 1785 Florida Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20009

Opening hours: Sun-Thu 10am-midnight; Fri, Sat 10am-2am

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What is it? Texas-trained pitmaster Fernando Gonzalez claims that every piece of meltingly tender flesh here “is cooked with wood, fire, and feel.”

Why we love it: Given Gonzalez’s Lone Star State roots, it’s no surprise that beef is the marquee protein here. Brisket is available from either Creekstone Farm Prime or Snake River Farms wagyu cattle, but there are few sensations for the meat lover quite like biting into a jiggly foot-long beef rib. Pulled lamb is an unexpected treat, too.  

Though basics like mac and cheese are available, skip them in favor of fried plantains accompanied by Salvadoran crema, creamy Mexican corn salad (esquites), and a sweet potato mash that recalls the best Thanksgivings with its torched marshmallow topping. Desserts also vault above the barbecue pack with surprises like dulce de leche panna cotta.

Time Out tip: Check out the specials board, which changes every week and includes interesting flavor combinations inspired by different cultures and collaborations with other local businesses. You might just luck into a day when the nearly orgasm-inducing pastrami is on offer.   

Address: 414 K St. NW, Washington, D.C., 20001

Opening hours: Wed-Mon 11am-7pm