Washington District Of Columbia, USA Travel Guide
The city's food scene draws from Mid-Atlantic influences, focusing on fresh seafood like crab.
As a city south of the Mason-Dixon line, D.C. Incorporates elements of Southern cooking. Ethiopian cuisine notably stands out due to one of the largest Ethiopian diasporas residing here.
Crab (especially crab cakes), oysters, and rockfish are basic elements, prepared to accentuate their freshness.
Farmers markets showcase seasonal fruits, vegetables, and artisan goods from surrounding Mid-Atlantic farms.
A unique D.C. Creation, this sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy ketchup-based sauce pairs well with fried chicken or fries.
A D.C. Original smoky, spicy sausage, grilled and served on a bun with chili, mustard, and onions.
Find this celebrated dish at Ben's Chili Bowl on U Street.
Generous lump crab meat with minimal filler, benefiting from proximity to the Chesapeake Bay.
Available at many D.C. Seafood restaurants, especially near the waterfront.
A sugary, tangy, and slightly spicy red sauce unique to D.C., often with fried chicken meat or French fries.
Available at local carry-outs and casual restaurants city-wide.
Discover fresh, seasonal produce and artisan goods from regional farms at markets operating throughout the week.
D.C. Hosts various food and wine festivals celebrating different cuisines and regional flavors throughout the year.
D.C. Boasts Michelin-starred restaurants like minibar and Masseria. Also find upscale steakhouses and international fine dining, especially in Penn Quarter and Georgetown.
An extensive selection across all D.C. Neighborhoods offers diverse cuisines, from modern American comfort food to Italian, French, Asian, Latin American, and more.
For affordable meals, D.C. Provides a range of choices including food trucks, casual delis, fast-casual chains, and local carry-outs.
Home to one of the most substantial Ethiopian populations outside of Ethiopia, D.C. Hosts a high concentration of excellent Ethiopian restaurants.
Mainly found on U Street and in Adams Morgan.
Explore a rich selection of Vietnamese, Thai, Indian, Chinese, Salvadoran, Peruvian, French, and Italian restaurants.
Find Latin American flavors in Columbia Heights or a wider international array in Adams Morgan.
A trendy indoor food hall with diverse vendors and artisan foods.
A historic public market on Capitol Hill with fresh produce, meats, and baked goods.
A historic seafood market where you can purchase fresh seafood.
Ramen to oysters, artisan crafts and specialty items.
Many D.C. Restaurants are knowledgeable and accommodating regarding gluten-free diets and common allergies.
Always inform your server about dietary restrictions or allergies.
Use apps like HappyCow (for vegan/vegetarian dining) and Yelp or A Navigation app with dietary filters.
Look for local D.C.-specific blogs or forums for current lists.
Explore D.C.'s many establishments focusing on plant-based cuisine for diverse and delicious meals.
For specific dietary ingredients or certified products, visit international grocery stores, notably for Halal or Kosher items.
Popular in neighborhoods like Georgetown and U Street, combining historical commentary with tastings.
Some culinary schools or specialty food shops offer single-session classes.
Day trips to nearby Virginia wine country or local microbreweries offer tasting experiences.
A trendy indoor food hall in Northeast D.C. Presents a range of vendors, artisan foods, and unique restaurants.
A well-liked place for midday meal or an evening bite.
This historic city market on Capitol Hill offers fresh produce, meats, baked goods, and prepared foods.
A community hub.
Meal times for breakfast (7-10 AM), lunch (12-2 PM), dinner (6-9 PM), and weekend brunch (10 AM-2 PM).
Weekend brunch is extremely popular; consider reservations for many establishments.
Many restaurants are accustomed to group dining and splitting checks, but it's always good to confirm in advance.
Don't hesitate to venture beyond the main tourist zones for authentic local flavors.
