5 Best Dining Spots in DC coming at you! The District has a lot to offer with unforgettable flavors, local charm, and standout dishes you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a foodie on the hunt for bold new bites or a visitor eager to experience the city’s culinary scene, these picks highlight the best of what the capital has to offer. From sizzling fried chicken to Michelin-starred pastries, discover the 5 Best Dining Spots in DC that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
1. Yellow
Address: 1524 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007
A vibrant Levantine café by chef Michael Rafidi (of Michelin-starred Albi), serving Middle Eastern–inspired pastries, mezze, and wood-fired pita sandwiches in a cheerful yellow-accented space.
Insider Tip: Arrive early (by 8 AM) to snag the coveted za’atar & labneh croissants or harissa‑egg croissant—especially on weekends when they sell out fast.
2. Filomena Ristorante
Address: 1063 Wisconsin Ave NW, Georgetown, Washington, DC 20007
Since 1983, Filomena has been a Georgetown institution renowned for its hearty, home-style Italian-American dishes, cooked with love by its “Pasta Mamas.” Think spaghetti & meatballs, gnocchi, and veal parmesan served in a richly decorated, almost theatrical dining room.
Insider notes: Reservations strongly recommended for this cozy, festive venue—especially around holidays, when they go full-on decoration mode.
3. Thai Chef
Address: 1712 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20009
Casual eatery in Dupont Circle offering authentic Bangkok-style street food—think skewers, dumplings, pad Thai, and award-winning cocktails—all inspired by Thailand’s vibrant vendor scene.
Insider Tip: Try the moo‑phing skewers or crab dumplings and pair them with one of their bold, award‑winning Thai cocktails for a true Bangkok-street-food vibe.
4. The Angry Jerk
Address: 1300 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004
A fast‑casual Caribbean‑Southern fusion spot founded in 2021, offering jerk-specialty bowls, tacos, wings, and fresh juices in a vibrant, reggae‑tinged setting.
Insider Tip: If it’s a hole‑in‑the‑wall with jerk specialties, look for signature dishes like jerk chicken wings, served with traditional sides like rice & peas or plantains.
5. Honeymoon Chicken
Address: 4201 Georgia Ave NW, Washington, DC 20011
A Bib Gourmand-rated fried‑chicken destination in Petworth by pitmaster Rob Sonderman. Think elevated comfort food: pressure‑fried chicken, hot honey dipping options, crispy sides, and honey-butter rolls.
Insider Tip: Go for the “Hot Honey” finish and don’t skip the honey‑butter rolls—they’re a community favorite and often cited as the star of the meal.