Washington, DC, has an amazing food scene with so many great places to eat that it can be tough to pick where to go. To make things even harder, DC is packed with Michelin-starred restaurants! From one to three stars, the city has some of the best dining spots around. But don’t worry—we’ve put together a quick guide to help you decide where to treat yourself.
1
One star
Rose’s Luxury
717 8th St SE
Rose’s Luxury offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with a menu that spans small plates and hearty entrees. Known for its creative flavors and friendly vibe, it’s a place to unwind and enjoy a memorable meal with friends or family.
2
One star
Sushi Nakazawa
1100 Pennsylvania Ave NW
At Sushi Nakazawa, the chef takes you on an omakase journey with fresh, expertly prepared sushi. With a minimalist setting and focus on high-quality fish, this restaurant offers a refined, authentic sushi experience.
3
Two star
Jônt
1904 14th St NW
At Jônt, a Michelin two-star restaurant, you’ll find a cozy chef’s counter where seasonal ingredients are transformed into beautifully crafted dishes. This multi-course dining experience is perfect for food lovers wanting to explore creative flavors, and the intimate setting adds to its charm.
4
One star
Bresca
1906 14th St NW
Bresca is known for its bold flavors and relaxed ambiance. With a Michelin star and seasonal dishes like honey-lacquered duck, it’s a place where elegance and comfort meet for a refined yet easygoing dining experience.
5
One star
Albi
1346 4th St SE
Middle Eastern flavors come alive at Albi, located in DC’s Navy Yard. Designed to be shared, each dish blends Mediterranean-inspired ingredients with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for a cozy, flavorful evening.
6
One star
Métier
1015 7th St NW
Métier takes fine dining to an intimate level with a tasting menu that’s both thoughtful and beautifully presented. Perfect for special occasions, the restaurant’s elegant atmosphere and innovative dishes create a truly luxurious dining experience.
7
THREE STARS
The Inn at Little Washington
309 Middle St
Just a short drive from DC, The Inn at Little Washington combines luxury and innovation in its three-Michelin-star dining experience. With inventive American dishes served in an elegant, whimsical setting, it offers an unforgettable getaway. If you’re looking to pair refined dining with a stunning setting, this place is a must-visit.
8
One star
Xiquet
2404 Wisconsin Ave NW
Xiquet serves Spanish-inspired dishes, including wood-fired paellas, in an intimate setting that transports you to Valencia. For those looking to explore Spanish cuisine, this restaurant offers a cozy and elegant experience with authentic flavors.
9
One star
Tail Up Goat
1827 Adams Mill Rd NW
With its Michelin star and focus on Mediterranean-inspired dishes, Tail Up Goat brings a relaxed, friendly vibe to DC’s dining scene. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy quality food in a casual, welcoming atmosphere.
10
TWO starS
Pineapple & Pearls
715 8th St SE
For an upscale yet approachable vibe, head to Pineapple & Pearls on Capitol Hill. This two-Michelin-starred restaurant offers a tasting menu that’s both adventurous and delicious, combining high-end flavors with DC’s signature warmth.
11
One star
El Cielo D.C.
1280 4th St NE
El Cielo creates a memorable Colombian-inspired experience with dishes designed to engage all five senses. With each bite, you’ll discover new flavors and textures that make dining here an interactive journey beyond just taste.
12
One star
Causa
920 Blagden Alley NW
A newcomer to DC, Causa brings fresh flavors from Peru to the city’s dining scene. By combining traditional ingredients with contemporary twists, each dish at Causa offers something unique and exciting for those ready to try something different.
13
One star
Masseria
1340 4th St NE
Masseria, housed in a stylish converted warehouse, combines rustic Italian flavors with a refined, modern setting. The handmade pastas and curated wine list make it a must-try for anyone seeking an authentic Italian dining experience in DC.
14
Two stars
Minibar
855 E St NW
Chef José Andrés brings creativity to new heights at Minibar, a small restaurant that feels like a science lab for food. Here, molecular gastronomy meets fine dining with playful and surprising dishes. With limited seating, this spot offers a unique experience where every bite is inventive and unexpected.
15
One star
Fiola
601 Pennsylvania Ave NW
With Italian elegance at its core, Fiola near the National Mall serves dishes like fresh pasta and seafood that feel both classic and new. Perfect for anyone craving a sophisticated Italian meal, Fiola brings a modern touch to timeless flavors.
16
One star
Gravitas
1401 Okie St NE
Gravitas, set in a cool, industrial space in Ivy City, offers fresh, seasonal dishes that highlight local ingredients. With a Michelin star, it’s a top pick for those who appreciate a modern, farm-to-table approach to Mid-Atlantic cuisine.
17
One star
Imperfecto: The Chef’s Table
1124 23rd St NW
At Imperfecto, Mediterranean and Latin American influences merge in a seamless menu prepared by the chef in front of guests. For anyone who enjoys watching culinary artistry in action, this spot delivers an intimate and memorable dining experience.
18
One star
Kinship
1015 7th St NW
Kinship feels like a welcoming bistro with an upscale twist, offering dishes that are both familiar and refined. The seasonal menu keeps things fresh and exciting, making it a great choice for a meal that’s high-quality without being overly formal.
19
One star
Little Pearl
921 Pennsylvania Ave SE
A charming café by day and a Michelin-starred restaurant by night, Little Pearl brings cozy vibes and delicious food together in one space. Ideal for a relaxed evening out, it’s perfect for an intimate meal in a low-key setting.
20
One star
Maydan
1346 Florida Ave NW
Step into Maydan, where the warmth of an open hearth welcomes you to enjoy flavors inspired by North Africa and the Middle East. With family-style dishes and bold spices, Maydan offers a unique, immersive dining experience in DC.
21
One star
The Dabney
122 Blagden Alley NW
Set in a historic row house, The Dabney combines Mid-Atlantic ingredients with modern flair. The wood-fired kitchen and seasonal menu make this restaurant a standout for anyone interested in locally inspired flavors.
22
One star
Rooster & Owl
2436 14th St NW
Rooster & Owl’s creative, shareable plates make it a top choice for a lively dinner with friends or family. With a rotating menu that has something for everyone, it’s perfect for those who want a bit of variety in their dining experience.
23
One star
Reverie
3201 Cherry Hill Ln NW
Located in Georgetown, Reverie presents modern American dishes in a relaxed setting. With its seasonal menu and welcoming vibe, it’s a great choice for anyone seeking an elevated meal that still feels casual.
24
One star
Rania
1900 M St NW
Rania is a new gem in DC, showcasing a bold, modern approach to Indian cuisine. With rich spices and vibrant flavors, it’s an ideal spot for those looking to experience Indian-inspired fine dining with a fresh twist.
25
One star
Oyster Oyster
1440 8th St NW
With a focus on sustainability, Oyster Oyster delivers a plant-forward menu that highlights fresh, local ingredients. This Michelin-starred choice offers seasonal flavors in an eco-friendly setting, making it perfect for anyone who values fresh food with an environmental focus.