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Georgetown's picturesque Victorian streetscapes make it D.C.'s most famous neighborhood, with five-star restaurants in historic row houses and casual cafés sandwiched between large national chain stores.
At its beginnings in the mid-1700s, Georgetown was a Maryland tobacco port. Today, the neighborhood is one of D.C.'s premier shopping districts, as well as a tourist and architectural attraction. And while recent additions to the neighborhood seem more apt to be chains, there are some standout local restaurants that cater to the budgets of college students, middle-income travelers, and D.C.'s well-heeled elite.
One of the latest additions to the busy Washington, D.C. dining scene is Apéro. Named after the European tradition of having a cocktail or glass of wine with snacks before a meal, Apéro provides a sizable wine list (owner Elli Benchimol is a sommelier), cocktails, and a never-ending supply of champagne. Its menu focuses on French cuisine with small bites like caviar, black truffle gougères, and escargot. Large plates are also available—try the ratatouille or duck confit.
Lutèce finds its inspiration from Parisian "neo-bistros," French restaurants where chefs use a creative license with twists on traditional fare. The menu at Lutèce features French staples like duck and steak with unique pairings such as steak tartare with fermented chili. The inviting dining room, with its exposed brick, vintage accents, and cozy atmosphere, makes it a choice for a romantic dinner in Georgetown.
