The Best Local Restaurants in Washington DC

Explore the best local restaurants in Washington DC. From local cuisine to international flavors, our Spotters have discovered the best places for every food lover. Enjoy delicious barbecue at Smoke and Barrel, have authentic Italian dishes at Dupont Italian Kitchen or taste the best tacos at Taco City D.C. Discover these and many more local favorites for a delicious dining experience in Washington DC.

City guides by those who know the city in and out!

Our Locals' Favorite Restaurants

City guides by those who know their city best!

Why not just trust our Locals?

40 Hidden Gems

Lulu's Wine Garden

Urban escape on busy U street

"Lulu's Wine Garden" in Washington DC is one my favorites on U Street. It's the perfect spot for both tourists and locals. I love their back patio!

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Bars
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Restaurants

by

Kelley

Smith

Jun 9, 2025

LeTena

Modern, fast, casual Ethiopian

"LeTena" Washington DC takes a slightly different approach with Ethiopian food, somewhere between being a restaurant & a casual place. I love the prices.

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Restaurants

by

Aparna

Krishnamoorthy

Jun 6, 2025

Donburi

Japanese restaurant

"Donburi" in Washington DC is a Japanese restaurant that makes my mouth water before I've even had a taste of the food! It's my comfort food in DC...

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Restaurants

by

Aparna

Krishnamoorthy

Jun 6, 2025

Izakaya Seki

Big taste & small plates

"Izakaya Seki" in Washington DC is the restaurant I go to when I want authentic but unfamiliar Japanese food, a place for somewhat adventurous diners!

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Restaurants

by

Aparna

Krishnamoorthy

Jun 6, 2025

Municipal Fish Market

America's original

"Municipal Fish Market" is the oldest continuously operating fish market offering an iconic, local experience that's rare in the city...

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Art & culture
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Restaurants
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Snacks

by

Lydia

Strohl

Jun 6, 2025

The Coupe

Late night breakfast

"The Coupe": one of my favorite places to grab a drink after work in Washington DC. What sets it apart is their all-day (read: late-night!) breakfast menu.

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Restaurants

by

Kelley

Smith

Jun 6, 2025

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40 Insider Tips from our local Spotters

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