Despite D.C.’s lack of true ethnic neighborhoods and the kinds of restaurant districts found in many other cities, you can find almost any cuisine here, from Burmese to Ethiopian. Done with the museums? Take a culinary tour of the nation’s capital—bring along an empty stomach, an adventurous palate, and a Metro map. Great eats abound throughout the city’s districts and environs.
Adams-Morgan
Closest Metro stop: Woodley Park/Zoo
Small ethnic spots open and close frequently along 18th Street NW; it’s worth taking a stroll to see what’s new and interesting. Two to try:
Downtown
Closest Metro stops: Gallary Place, Foggy Bottom, Metro Center, Archives
There’s “new downtown,” centered at Connecticut Avenue and K Street, and “old downtown,” which lies further east. Those looking for tried-and-true elegant restaurants with pricier menus should head to the former. Heading east from here, expect a volatile restaurant scene—perfect for those diners interested in the very latest. A trio to try:
Capitol Hill
Closest Metro stops: Navy Memorial, Union Station, Eastern Market, Capitol South
When not busy running the country, Hill insiders fill up at a number of pricey eateries in the close vicinity of Union Station. Two to try:
Dupont Circle
Closest Metro stop: Dupont Circle
Dupont Circle, which lies south of U Street and north of K Street, is dense with restaurants and cafés, many with outdoor seating. Two to try:
Georgetown/West End/ Glover Park
Closest Metro stop: Foggy Bottom
This pedestrian-friendly area has two main drags—Wisconsin Avenue and M Street. White-tablecloth establishments coexist easily next to hole-in-the-wall joints. Two to try:
U Street
Closest Metro stops: U Street/Cardozo
With some of the hippest bars in the District, quirky vintage stores, small and lively nightclubs, and numerous cafés, the neighborhood draws a young crowd day and night. Two to try:
Maryland Suburbs
Closest Metro stops: Silver Spring, Bethesda,
Downtown Bethesda is luring the cognoscenti from Georgetown with Spanish, Greek, Italian, French, Vietnamese, and Thai Fare. Two to try:
Virginia Suburbs
Closest Metro stops: King Street, Ballston, Clarendon
Old Town Alexandria’s ritzy restaurants and Arlington’s bountiful Asian options inspire many District diners to head south. Two to try: