Washingtonians have an active social calendar, it seems that everyone is always looking for fine dining in Washington, DC. I must admit, I am a sucker for fine dining: the crisp linens, fine decor, and dapper servers make the dining experience even more special. Whether it is to celebrate having a bill getting passed (it’s DC folks) or a marriage proposal, there’s always an excuse for fine dining. People may think that Washington, DC is not a romantic city, but I beg to differ. The Dutchman proposed to me at the Reflecting Pool, so maybe that is why I sometimes see my city with googly, romantic eyes…
Dining Traveler Guide to Fine Dining in Washington, DC:
Oval Room: The Oval Room, just steps from the White House, is one of my favorite restaurants. It’s the perfect place for a special occasion dinner. I also love going there for a late lunch for their $20 bar lunch special. Executive Chef John Melfi always prepares the most beautiful dishes. Think crispy salmon skin presented with roasted beets, warm chestnut volute, and house made pasta with black truffle garnish. Oval Room: 800 Connecticut Ave, Washington, DC 20017
Casa Luca: As temperatures drop, there’s nothing more comforting than a hearty plate of pasta. At this stylish Downtown restaurant, Chef Erin Clarke makes a beautiful homemade pappardelle and gnocchi laced with a rich wild boar ragu. Clarke then tops off this gorgeous dish with freshly sliced truffles that take you on a culinary journey to Italy. Casa Luca: 1099 New York Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001
1789: This Georgetown restaurant is the epitome of fine dining in Washington, DC. Its cozy décor reminds me of a gasthaus in Germany with wooden furniture and warm colors. Most recently, I had the chance to indulge in Chef Samuel Kim inventive fall menu (think venison loin, guinea hen and warm baked apple stuffed with walnuts). 1789 Restaurant: 1226 36th St NW, Washington, DC 20007, United States
The Lafayette Restaurant: If you are looking for the ultimate luxurious dining experience, book a table at The Lafayette Restaurant at the Hay Adams Hotel. It has crisp white linens, delicate crystal chandeliers and an attentive wait staff. There, Chef Jaime Montes de Oca cooks smoked squab with Sicilian pistachio puree, candied figs and lemon thyme. The sweet figs with the smoked squab pairs perfectly. The Lafayette Restaurant, 800 16th St NW, Washington, DC 20006.
Blue Duck Tavern: There’s a reason why this restaurant is one of the top picks when it comes to fine dining in Washington, DC. There’s an impeccable attention to detail in everything they make-the restaurant even makes its own butter, buttermilk, and even some of its cheese. The culinary team always takes the dishes to the next level. Although dinner is beautifully decadent, I believe their best kept secret is their breakfast. With its freshly pressed juices, smoked salmon and truffled eggs, it’s the perfect way to start the day. Blue Duck Tavern: 1201 24th St NW, Washington, DC 20037
Fiola: When you step into Fiola, you are taken by the gorgeous dining room with rustic walls which remind you of being in a château cellar in Italy. The wait staff is impeccably dressed in tailored white jackets and sharp neckties. Even if you indulge in their delicious pasta, make sure to save room for dessert! I had their candied pumpkin rolled in espresso and sugar. Amazing! Fiola: 601 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004
701: Although 701 is known as a business restaurant, it is a hidden gem of fine dining in Washington, DC. Executive Chef Ben Lambert brings amazing creativity to its menu with dishes such as savory carrot funnel cake or lobster bucatini (my favorite). The restaurant was recently renovated, the highlight is the installation of the cracked gold eggs designed by Martin Vahtra. 701 Restaurant: 701 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004
Muze at Mandarin Oriental: I recently dined at Muze in good company: had the opportunity to sit alongside Michelin Star Chef Michel Roux as he promoted his new book, The Essence of French Cooking. There, I really got to see the magic that happens behind the scenes at Muze, all withthe top-notch service that the Mandarin Oriental brand is known for. With its inconspicuous location married with some of the best views of the city, the Mandarin Oriental makes a great fine dining escape, even if it’s just for lunch.
The fact you can take a post-dinner stroll by the White House or the National Portrait Gallery or wander through Georgetown after indulging in the perfect meal makes the city a beautiful setting for a special occasion dinner. Whether it is Valentine’s Day, a birthday, anniversary, or a professional achievement, there’s plenty of places to choose from. What is your favorite place for fine dining in Washington, DC?
How do you decide where to eat when you travel new places?
First, I ask friends/other bloggers who have been to the destination for recommendations. I also check out blogs and apps like Yelp while on the go…
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