Where To Eat In DC: A Guide to My Favorite Restaurants

Where to Eat In DC

One of the things that blew my mind when I moved to DC back in 2016 was how impressive the restaurant scene is. Outside of our must see monuments, the restaurant scene in the district gives other tourist attractions a serious run for their money. I’m not kidding - the amount of award winning restaurants in this city is astonishing. Over the last two years I’ve made some substantial culinary strides here in DC, so today I’m sharing a guide to my favorite restaurants. Better grab a fork and knife!

All images in this post are mine unless noted otherwise.

A Baked Joint

This is my friend groups home away from home. We love grabbing breakfast, sweet treats, and coffee at ABJ. Located between Gallery Place and Mount Vernon Square, our favorite time to visit A Baked Joint is on Fridays for Jazz & Pizza Night. What’s that you ask? It’s the best night ever! Live jazz bands, deep dish pizzas, and lots of fellowship. You won’t want to miss it!

Visit ABJ Website

Blue Duck Tavern

I’ll never forget the first time I had the pleasure of having dinner at this Michelin star restaurant. Located on the cusp of where Georgetown and West End meets, Blue Duck Tavern’s market-based menu features local farms and the best ingredients of each season. Nothing on this menu disappoints, but the wood oven roasted bone marrow and pekin duck are my personal favorites.

Visit Blue Duck Tavern Website

Bluestone Lane

This stylish Australian cafe in West End is one of my favorite places to grab breakfast with friends. The food is as healthy as it is delicious, and the space is absolutely stunning - perfect for your tummy and for Instagram. I usually order the Classic Avocado Smash or the Breakfast Bowl. Check it out mate!

Visit Bluestone Lane Website

Chaia Tacos

I’m not going to lie - the first time that I heard about Chaia I was not interested. I’m an avid meat lover, so the thought of vegan tacos translated to an automatic no for me. The first time that I ended up having Chaia was by accident after a workout class, and I immediately fell in love. The tacos are amazing and the space in Georgetown is super quaint and cute. Perfect for a casual lunch or dinner while in Georgetown.

Visit Chaia Website

Daikaya

If you’re looking for the best ramen in DC, it’s at Daikaya. When my sister lived in Maryland, we loved grabbing ramen and Sapporos at this Gallery Place hot spot. Word to the wise? Show up early because it can take eons before you’re seated.

Visit Daikaya Website

Del Mar

I felt like the fanciest chick while dining at Del Mar. I had the pleasure of dining here for a work dinner, and I’ve been dying to go back ever since. Nestled on the Wharf, Del Mar provides a stunning view of the waterfront with super sleek interiors. Founded by Fabio and Maria Trabocchi, the menu features coastal Spain flare in celebration of their family traditions.

Visit Del Mar Website

District Commons

I like this place because it’s right in my DuPont Circle backyard - Foggy Bottom! The outdoor seating at this restaurant is my favorite, so I like to visit during the warmer months. The food is wonderful and the vibe is awesome. My favorite items on the menu are the Risotto balls and the Slow Roasted Five Spice Duck. The best part? It’s just a short walk from the Foggy Bottom metro and a leisurely stroll away from DuPont Circle!

Visit District Commons Website

Emissary

*Source: Josie Jackson & Charmaine Charmant*

If you follow me on Instagram, you already know that Emissary is my home away from home. This independent coffee house doubles as a bar at night with a cozy atmosphere featuring exposed brick and amazing food. What I love the most about Emissary is it’s commitment to community and diversity. I have gone to Emissary for first dates, breakfast with friends, happy hour with coworkers, and to get work done during the day. It’s the perfect little spot for any occasion. When I’m there, I usually order the Smashed Avocado Toast, Truffle Popcorn, Chilaquiles, or Smoked Salmon Toast. The seasonal pasta is also amazing!

Visit Emissary Website

Farmers Fishers Bakers

I absolutely adore Farmers Fishers Bakers. It was one of the first restaurants I visited while apartment hunting in DC before my move! Situated on the Georgetown Waterfront, this restaurant is always super packed and busy, so there’s no such thing as showing up without a reservation. Their farm to table atmosphere extends well beyond the restaurant itself. In fact, the Farmers Restaurant Group is primarily owned by more than 47,000 American family farmers. While I love every meal at Farmers Fishers Bakers, their buffet style weekend brunch takes the cake! You can’t leave DC without paying this restaurant a visit.

Visit FFB Website

Founding Farmers

Owned by the same restaurant group that brought us Farmers Fishers Bakers, Founding Farmers is a city favorite. This restaurant is another one that’s always packed and busy. I love coming here for lunch because the wait is usually relatively short with a reservation. The food is always divine and the atmosphere is fresh and upbeat. You won’t regret dining here.

Visit Founding Farmers Website

Ghibellina

I would live in this Logan Circle restaurant if I could. The interiors are so chic and the pizza is undeniably delicious. My favorite place to sit is at the bar. The marble counter top and high chairs are insanely picturesque. Not sure what to drink? Order some of that sangria babe!

Visit Ghibellina Website

Jinya Ramen Bar

Also located near Logan Circle is Jinya Ramen bar. This LA based Japanese franchise is one of my favorite places to grab ramen in the city. My favorite dish at this establishment is the Tonkotsu Black ramen. Next time you’re in the area, check it out!

Visit Jinya Website

Kith & Kin

I visited Kith & Kin for the first time on a blind date, and have been back a million times since. If you follow me on Instagram, you’re already familiar with my Caribbean heritage, so it probably comes as no surprise that I’m always excited when I find good Afro-Caribbean cuisine outside of NYC. Located on the Wharf, this upscale restaurant features a stunning waterfront view with a beautiful airy interior with gold accents. As someone that grew up in a Caribbean household, I will say that the spices are definitely toned down to accommodate a wider range of palettes. My menu favorites are the Braised Oxtails, Jerk Chicken and Goat Roti.

Visit Kith & Kin Website

Ladurée

This French luxury bakery is world renowned for baked goods - particularly macaroons. Ladurée’s Georgetown location is the perfect place to grab sweat treats in the District. They also have a pretty awesome brunch! Fun fact - I went on a few dates with the former second chef and he made me and my friends the beautiful chocolate desserts photographed below. I don’t miss him much, but I do miss the free treats!

Visit Ladurée Website

La Vie

I want to throw a party at La Vie. My first introduction to this gem was for a Grand L’Esprit launch party. As soon as I got upstairs, I fell in love with the interior design. Talk about glamour! Nestled on the edge of the Wharf, this restaurant provides stunning views of the waterfront. There are three separate rooms with three distinct feels - each one more lavish than the previous. It’s like a dream. Oh right, the food is amazing too.

Visit La Vie Website

Le Diplomate

This restaurant is at the top of my list for dining out in the district. Thinking of planning a date night? Look no further than Le Diplomate for booking a reservation. This french brasserie is the best restaurant on one of DC’s most popular streets - 14th. I love their duck à l’orange and the wine is amazing. I can’t wait to visit again.

Visit Le Diplomate Website

Modern Market

My favorite place to grab lunch during the week is at Modern Market. With a location in Bethesda and another one Downtown DC, this farm fresh eatery features a wide range of delicious and vibrant dishes crafted from scratch. I love that Modern Market restaurants operate within a network of farmers, ranchers and suppliers who use sustainable practices. I always leave feeling satisfied, happy, and energized to seize the second half of my day.

Visit Modern Market Website

Momofuku CCDC

My first taste of Momofuku was at the NYC location, so I already knew that the one in DC would not disappoint. Opened in 2015, Momofuku CCDC’s menu is constantly evolving as the Executive Chef and his team create amazing seasonal menus centered around Asian fare. I love the airy atmosphere of this restaurant. With floor to ceiling glass windows, high ceilings, and exposed industrial beams, Momofuku CCDC provides a sleek and modern vibe.

Visit Momofuku Website

Oohh’s & Aahh’s

If you like soul food, you’ll like this no frills black owned establishment. I literally left a happy hour at the Wet Dog to grab a quick bite from this spot. I wish I was lying, but I’m dead serious. The fried chicken is bomb, the greens are lit, and the mac n cheese hits! The next time you find yourself on U street, be sure to check them out.

Visit Oohh's and Aahh's Website

Peacock Cafe

The next time you’re in Georgetown, make sure you set some time aside to visit Peacock Cafe. It’s the perfect place to grab brunch or lunch before hitting up the shops on M Street. I plan on taking my mom and aunt here for brunch the next time that they’re in town.

Visit Peacock Cafe Website

Po Boy Jim

I went to Po Boy Jim for a blogger lunch earlier this year and immediately fell in love. The music was amazing, the drinks were strong, and the po boys were huge! Just like I like it. Located on H Street corridor, this black owned restaurant continues to bring the culture for the culture and friends!

Visit Po Boy Jim Website

RPM Italian

RPM Italian is amazing. I love their Carbonara. I love their dark interiors. I love their Spiced Pineapple No Proof Cocktail. If you’re feeling fancy for dinner, book a reservation here.

Visit RPM Italian Website

The Smith DC

I’ve been a fan of the Smith since living back home in NYC. The signature black and white color scheme and outdoor seating of this casual American Brasserie feels like home. With two locations in the District, one on U Street and another in Penn Quarter, it’s been easier for me to get a quick taste of home. If you’ve never been to the Smith, you won’t be disappointed.

Visit The Smith Website

Bon Appétit!

There you have it! My favorite DC restaurants all in one place - give or take a few. Did I miss one of your favorites? Let me know in the comments. Until next time babes!