1789 Restaurant

Nestled in a restored Federal-style townhouse in Georgetown, 1789 is D.C.’s classic fine-dining experience. It captures old-world charm with antique furnishings, colonial-era artwork, and a cozy fireplace. The seasonal menu delivers elevated American fare paired with an extensive wine list. With six unique dining rooms across three floors, each with its own character, it’s ideal for a romantic dinner, a special occasion, or simply indulging in a memorable meal.

• Web:

  www.1789restaurant.com

• Address:

  1226 36th Street NW, Washington, D.C.

• Phone:

  +1 202 965 1789

• Opening hours:

  Daily 5:30pm–9pm

Ben’s Chili Bowl

It’s hot dogs and chili-cheese fries galore at this iconic D.C. eatery. Founded in 1958, Ben’s Chili Bowl has welcomed locals, tourists, and celebrities alike—including Duke Ellington—making it a neighborhood institution. The menu features its famous half-smokes smothered in chili, classic burgers, subs, salads, and milkshakes, all served in a colorful, lively atmosphere that captures a true taste of Washington.

• Web:

  https://benschilibowl.com

• Address:

  1208 U Street NW, Washington, D.C.

• Phone:

  +1 202 667 0909

• Opening hours:

  Sun–Thu 11am–11pm, Fri & Sat 11am–4am

Bistrot Lepic

A Georgetown staple since 1995, Bistrot Lepic is known for its cozy atmosphere and classic French cuisine. The downstairs dining room serves dishes like escargot, foie gras, and cassoulet, while the upstairs wine bar offers a relaxed spot for small plates and an extensive French wine list. Live jazz complements to the ambiance every Wednesday evening.

• Web:

  https://bistrotlepic.com

• Address:

  1736 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.

• Phone:

  +1 202 333 0111

Blue Duck Tavern

Located within the Park Hyatt Washington, Blue Duck Tavern offers a refined take on New American cuisine, emphasizing seasonal ingredients from local farms. Diners can enjoy dishes like prime bavette steak and wood-oven roasted chicken in a minimalist rustic-chic setting, with handcrafted wood furnishings and an open kitchen.

• Web:

  www.blueducktavern.com

• Address:

  1201 24th Street NW, Washington, D.C.

• Phone:

  +1 202 789 1234

Cafe Milano

Dubbed by The New York Times as “where the world’s most powerful people go,” Café Milano is a Georgetown institution, known for its authentic Italian cuisine and as a gathering spot for Washington’s elite. The elegant interior, inspired by Milanese boutiques, and the sidewalk patio create a stylish setting for enjoying classics like veal Milanese and linguine with Maine lobster, paired with an extensive wine list.

• Web:

  www.cafemilano.com

• Address:

  3251 Prospect Street NW, Washington, D.C.

• Phone:

  +1 202 333 6183

• Opening hours:

  Sun–Wed 11:30am–10:30pm, Thu–Sat 11:30am–11:30pm

dLeña

Chef Richard Sandoval’s dLeña in Mount Vernon Triangle brings wood-fire Mexican cuisine into a rustic-chic space filled with brick archways, leather seats, and festive energy. The restaurant celebrates “leña” (firewood in Spanish) with smoky dishes and mezcal- and tequila-forward cocktails. Favorites include guacamole de bonito with charred tostadas, corn empanadas with manchego and chimichurri, and shrimp enchiladas bathed in smoky guajillo salsa. Recognized in both the 2022 and 2023 Michelin Guide and among OpenTable’s Top 100 Restaurants in 2024, it’s a standout for contemporary Mexican fare in D.C.

• Web:

  www.dlenadc.com

• E-mail:

  hello@dlenadc.com

• Address:

  476 K St NW Suite D, Washington, D.C.

• Phone:

  +1 202 560 5999

9:30 Club

9:30 Club is a renowned music venue just off U Street, known for hosting both iconic and up-and-coming artists. With a spacious interior, balcony seating, and excellent sightlines, it’s perfect for catching a show no matter where you stand. The club also serves a selection of pub-style fare, including veggie-friendly options. Recognized by Rolling Stone as one of the 10 best live music venues, 9:30 Club has welcomed legendary performers like Bob Dylan, Radiohead, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers, making it a must-visit for music fans in D.C.

• Web:

  www.930.com

• Address:

  815 V Street NW, Washington, D.C.

• Phone:

  +1 202 265 0930

All Souls Bar

All Souls Bar is the kind of place that feels like a true neighborhood hangout. Tucked into Shaw, this cozy corner spot has a welcoming, no-frills vibe with friendly bartenders and a steady buzz of conversation. Drinks are the star here—well-made classics like Manhattans, Old Fashioneds, and one of the city’s best Negronis, all reasonably priced. There’s no food menu, but you’re welcome to bring your own or grab a bite nearby on U Street.

• Web:

  https://allsoulsbar.com

• Address:

  725 T Street NW, Washington, D.C.

• Phone:

  +1 202 733 5929

• Opening hours:

  Sun–Thu 5pm–2am, Fri & Sat 5pm–3am

Barrel

Barrel is a rustic bourbon bar within walking distance of the National Mall. The menu highlights Southern-inspired small plates like smoked brisket and fried chicken, while the extensive bourbon selection keeps cocktail lovers happy.

• Web:

  https://barreldc.com

• Address:

  613 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, Washington, D.C.

• Phone:

  +1 202 543 3623

• Opening hours:

  Mon–Thu 4pm–midnight, Fri 2pm–1am, Sat 11am–1am, Sun 11am–9pm

Blues Alley Club

Blues Alley is a legendary jazz club in Georgetown, offering an intimate setting where patrons can get up close to headline and emerging jazz acts. Open since 1965, the venue has a classic, old-school atmosphere that pairs perfectly with cocktails and small plates, making it a must-visit for music lovers seeking a quintessential D.C. jazz experience.

• Web:

  www.bluesalley.com

• Address:

  1073 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.

• Phone:

  +1 202 337 4141

• Opening hours:

  Daily 6pm–11pm

Clyde's of Georgetown

Clyde’s of Georgetown, located in the historic Georgetown neighborhood, is a Washington institution serving classic American cuisine alongside handcrafted cocktails and an extensive wine list. The warm and inviting setting, complete with wood-paneled walls, cozy dining nooks, and a timeless ambiance, makes it a favorite for both locals and visitors.

• Web:

  www.clydes.com/location/clydes-georgetown

• Address:

  3236 M Street NW, Washington, D.C.

• Phone:

  +1 202 333 9180

Decades DC

Decades DC is a high-energy, retro-themed nightclub in the heart of Washington, D.C., spanning six floors with eight bars and five DJs. Each level offers a distinct vibe, from '80s and '90s classics to 2000s pop, hip-hop beats, and electronic dance music on the rooftop. Known for its lively atmosphere, state-of-the-art sound system, and retractable rooftop, Decades draws both locals and visitors looking for a fun, nostalgic night out in the nation's capital.

• Web:

  https://decadesdc.com

• Address:

  1219 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.

• Phone:

  +1 202 650 7326

Baked & Wired

Tucked away in Georgetown, Baked & Wired is a quirky, family-owned café that has built a loyal following for its strong coffee, oversized cupcakes, and signature house-made granola. It's got an artsy and relaxed vibe, which makes it a favorite haunt for university students. Everything is baked in small batches with top-notch ingredients, so whether you’re after a morning espresso or a sweet pick-me-up, you’re in for a treat.

• Web:

  https://bakedandwired.com

• Address:

  1052 Thomas Jefferson Street NW, Washington, D.C.

• Phone:

  +1 703 663 8727

• Opening hours:

  Sun–Thu 8am–4pm, Fri & Sat 8am–6pm

Bread Furst

A neighborhood favorite in Van Ness/Forest Hills, Bread Furst is an artisan bakery led by founder and award-winning baker Mark Furstenberg. From crusty European-style baguettes and olive levains to flaky croissants, kouign-amann, and a rotating selection of pastries, everything is baked from scratch using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The bakery also serves coffee and light café fare, making it a perfect stop for breakfast, brunch, or a mid-day treat.

• Web:

  https://breadfurst.com

• E-mail:

  info@breadfurst.com

• Address:

  4434 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.

• Phone:

  +1 202 765 1200

• Opening hours:

  Daily 8am–7pm

Call Your Mother Deli

Call Your Mother Deli, which started in Park View in 2018, quickly became D.C.'s go-to for creative bagels. You can build your own or choose fan favourites like the Sun City (pastrami, bacon, spicy honey, and “bodega-style” egg) or Royal Palm (smoked salmon, capers, cream cheese). They also offer sandwiches, babka muffins, latkes, and strong coffee.

• Web:

  www.callyourmotherdeli.com

• Address:

  3301 Georgia Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.

• Phone:

  +1 202 450 5307

• Opening hours:

  Mon–Fri 6:30am–2pm, Sat & Sun 6:30am–3pm

Colada Shop

Colada Shop brings the vibrant flavors and atmosphere of Havana to D.C. This small local chain serves classic Cuban coffee drinks—like sweet, creamy caffecitos and iced café con leche—alongside pastries, empanadas, croquetas, and cocktails. For something heartier, try a Cubano sandwich or the huevos a la Cubano caldero, eggs baked with queso fresco, sofrito, and tomato.

• Web:

  www.coladashop.com

• Address:

  1405 T Street NW, Washington

• Phone:

  +1 202 931 4947

• Opening hours:

  Sun–Wed 7:30am–9pm, Thu–Sat 7:30am–10pm

Compass Coffee

Founded by two former Marines, Compass Coffee has grown into a popular local chain with more than 20 cafés across the DC area. Beans are sourced from coffee-growing regions like Guatemala, Ethiopia, and Brazil, then roasted in-house to create blends that range from light to dark, making it easy to find your preferred flavor. The airy, industrial-style café near Gallery Place is a convenient stop for a latte, pastry, or sandwich before setting out to explore the city.

• Web:

  www.compasscoffee.com

• Address:

  1535 7th Street NW, Washington, D.C.

• Phone:

  +1 202 746 5510

• Opening hours:

  Mon–Fri 6:30am–5pm, Sat & Sun 7am–5pm

maman

Located along Georgetown's historic Wisconsin Avenue, Maman Georgetown offers a charming escape with its South of France-inspired ambiance. Enjoy a selection of French-inspired pastries, breakfast and lunch options, and artisanal coffee blends. Maman's nutty chocolate chip cookies have garnered acclaim, even earning a spot on Oprah's Favorite Things list.

• Web:

  https://mamannyc.com/locations/georgetown

• Address:

  1353 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington

• Phone:

  +1 202 506 3372

• Opening hours:

  Daily 7:30am–6pm