1. Scarlet Oak - 909 New Jersey Ave SE, Navy Yard
One of the Navy Yard’s local haunts, the Scarlet is a quieter, intimate spot serving American fare. Locals love to sit on the patio and enjoy their popular brunch.
2. Rasika - 633 D St NW, Penn Quarter
It is entirely possible that Rasika is the best Indian restaurant in the entire city. The food here is flavorful, fresh and not to be missed. If you are in doubt, order the garlic naan bread and the Palak Chaat.
3. Oohh’s & Aahhs - 1005 U St NW, U Street Corridor
Oohs and ahhhs is what you will be saying when you taste the authentic Southern home cooking at this eatery. They serve delicious soul food and huge portions. Do not miss out on their macaroni and cheese.
4. St. Arnold’s On Jefferson - 1827 Jefferson Pl NW, Dupont
St Arnold’s is tucked in between normal row houses of Dupont and it’s one of those places you just have to stop by for happy hour and order the mussels or really anything on the menu while enjoying their Belgian beer.
5. Cafe Milano - 3251 Prospect St NW, Georgetown
If you ask anyone who lives in Georgetown where to go for dinner to avoid a scene, they will tell you Cafe Milano. Off the beaten path on a side street, Cafe Milano is popular with the DC elite who love to stop off here for a tasty Italian meal. You can’t go wrong with any of their pastas.
6. Barcelona Wine Bar - 1622 14th St NW, Logan Circle
Come to Barcelona for delicious Spanish tapas plates and a huge selection of wine. Order a little bit of everything and share with your friends, enjoying every flavorful bite. Our recommendation is the hangar steak.
7. Boundary Stone - 116 Rhode Island Ave NW, Bloomingdale
A dark and cozy pub, Boundary Stone is a great place to hang out and enjoy great food for a few hours. They feature flavorful meals and cold brews. What’s not to love?
8. Donburi - 2438 18th N W, Adams Morgan
There are so many bars and restaurants in Adams Morgan but nothing quite like Donburi, their local Japanese hot spot. It’s a small restaurant and you order before you sit down but the confusion of the ordering process is worth the incredible fresh Japanese cuisine you will receive.
9. Zenebech Injera - 608 T St NW, Shaw
We cannot get enough of Zenebech Injera! This family owned Ethiopian restaurant offers the most incredible authentic Ethiopian food in the entire city. Order a sampler and try a little bit of every flavor.
10. Thip Khao - 3462 14th St NW, Columbia Heights
The most incredible Lao food in DC is in Columbia Heights at Thip Khao. Bold flavors, spices and textures create an amazing dining experience. The Naem Khao should top your wish list at this neighborhood favorite.
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