40 x 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.

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40 Hidden Gems

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

Oct 6, 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

Oct 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

Oct 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

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Lydia

Strohl

Oct 6, 2025

Jardenea

Farm-focused modern American dining

"Jardenea" in Washington DC is one of those unassuming hotel bars that actually turn out really good food. It's high quality, seasonal, intimate dining...

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Restaurants

by

Aparna

Krishnamoorthy

Oct 6, 2025

La Piquette

French bistro

"La Piquette" in Washington DC is a French bistro that runs by the motto 'Quench and Feed'. The atmosphere is cozy & bustling, with a local crowd...

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Bars
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Restaurants

by

Lydia

Strohl

Oct 6, 2025

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