The Best Restaurant in Downtown, Washington, D.C.

Background Illustration for Restaurants

Until recently, tourists who trekked north from the Mall hungry for something more than Smithsonian cafeteria food were stranded Downtown with little but high-end options. Now, young Washingtonians are taking advantage of residential development and moving off Capitol Hill to Downtown, Penn Quarter, and Chinatown, where nothing short of a restaurant revolution has taken shape in the last decade.

Cranes

$$$$ | Petworth

Cranes, a Michelin-starred restaurant at Penn Quarter is the brainchild of chef/owner Pepe Moncayo who creates a kaiseki experience (small, delicate plates) combining Japanese techniques and the flavors of his native Spain. In the evenings, you can experience an intricate omakase menu where the chef surprises you with a series of delicately crafted small courses featuring ingredients such as soft shell crab, oysters, and tender duck breast. Lunches are also a luxurious experience but at a more affordable price point, offering photogenic bento boxes with sashimi and pickled veggies. 

724 9th St. NW, Washington, DC, 20001, USA
202-525--4900
Known For
  • Japanese fusion menu
  • Affordable lunch for a Michelin-starred restaurant
  • Sake collection
Restaurant Details
Closed Sun.
Reservations recommended

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