2 Best Restaurants in D.C. Waterfront, Washington, D.C.

The stylish design and superlative pastas of this take on cuisine from northern Italy's Emilia-Romagna region might seem like an unexpected match for the sports fans flocking to Nationals Park. But you can't ask for a better way to cap off a day at the ballpark than the wood-grilled meats here. You can also try the charcuterie and cheese (the creamy robiola is particularly delicious), all washed down with an Italian cocktail. If you want to treat your palate, this restaurant is an excellent choice.

Shilling Canning takes pride in the quality of its fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and it shows. The Shilling family hails from Baltimore, where they were known for their positive values and respect for the community, as well as their excellent food products—chef Shilling and his team are clearly devoted to honoring the family legacy with a similar ethos. Customer service is impeccable. If you’re sometimes overwhelmed with long menus and multiple decisions, it’s refreshing that the dinner menu here consists of a weekly changing three-course chef’s menu with optional wine pairings. The patio is set off from the main street and bordered with plants, which adds to the pleasant, upscale atmosphere.