For those planning a weekend trip to Washington, D.C., I have put together a list of my favorite places to eat depending on the occasion; brunch, dinner, drinks, speakeasy, and dessert! If you have any questions or want more suggestions within one of the specific categories, please message me and I can give you further recommendations.
Brunch
Le Diplomate
Rating: 4/5 Highly Recommend for those wanting to splurge!
Vibe: Famous Authentic French bistro that is always packed with well dressed patrons, government types, and romantic first dates. This place is a DC staple and should be on your “must try” list.
My Order: Frose, Escargots (garlic and parsley butter), Steak Frites
Lupo Verde
Rating: 4/5 Perfect for brunch, girls dinner, or impressing your parents when they come into town.
Vibe: Neighborhood gem with darling outdoor seating, and a rustic two-story restaurant and bar serving Southern Italian dishes.
My Order:
Appetizer:Cheese & Meat Plate (Pecorino Toscano, Burrata, Proscuitto di Parma, Coppa, Sopressata) Brush up on your Salumeria knowledge.
Pasta: Agnolotti del Plin (pasta filled with braised short ribs, brown butter, sage sauce, and natural braising jus)
Brunch: Social Brunch- Pancakes, Caico e Pepe, Spaghetti alla Carbonara, Rucola Fritters
Hanks Oyster Bar at the Wharf
Rating: 3/5- Not a lot of health-conscious options if you do not like seafood.
Vibe: Bright and cheery, casual, seafood restaurant.
My Order:
Ice Bar: Oysters on the half shell (always ask for the most delicate oysters for a less fishy taste).
Small Plates: Popcorn shrimp & calamari, spicy marinated beets.
Drinks: Hank’s Bloody, You’re my Butter Half
Trendy Dinner
Hazel
Rating: 3.5/5- A little bit on the pricey side.
Vibe: Upscale, chef driven, New American restaurant with dim lighting and popular outdoor seating. The restaurant is filled with young professionals, date nights, and celebrations of all sorts.
My Order:
Steak Tartare (tater tots, egg yolk, watercress, caramelized onion dip)
Fava Bean Falafel (fennel jam, jalapeno, black sesame yogurt)
*Apparently Grandma’s Zucchini Bread is one of their most popular dishes.
Tico
Rating: 4/5-
Vibe: Spanish Tapas, colorful decor, lively upbeat environment.
My Order:
Tapas: Ahi Tuna, Shishito Peppers, Roasted Cauliflower, Garlic Prawns
Drinks
Hawthorne
Rating: 3.5/5
Vibe: Super crowded late night, but Happy Hour is more manageable. The crowd tends to be younger than I would like.
My Order: Wine by the glass
POV the W
Rating: 4/5- I always have a good time, even on POVs most crowded nights.
Vibe: A DC Classic. Gorgeous rooftop views. Mix of professionals, visitors, and people looking to party.
My Order:Espresso Martini
Bardo River Brewery
Rating: 3/5- I’m sure beer lovers would give this a higher rating, but I love the vibe.
Vibe: Hipster Brewery and beer garden with a wonderful view.
My Order: Chuck Brown Ale
Speakeasy
The Gibson
Rating: 4/5
Vibe: Sexy, dark leathers, 1920’s feeling, dim lighting.
My Order: The Dunbar Hotel (Allspice Dram, Demerara, Salt)
Chicken and Whiskey
Rating: 3/5
Vibe: Located behind a fake freezer door, 50 person bar.
My Order: Wine by the glass
Dessert
Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream
Rating: 3.5/5
Vibe: Line out the door on a regular basis. Fun and friendly neighborhood spot located in a buzzing part of town.
My Order: Pistachio & Honey, Salty Caramel
Jubilee Ice Cream
Rating: 3.5/5
Vibe: High quality, fresh flavors, creative flavors in a modern little shop.
My Order: Carmel Popcorn or Cookies & Cookie Dough Ice Cream!
Milk Bar
Rating: 4/5
Vibe: Carefree and creative. All of the calories.
My Order: Birthday Cake, Crack Cake, Cereal Milk Soft Serve
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