No matter what political party is in power, Washingtonians have to eat — and these days, the food scene in the nation’s capital is buzzing. Over the past few decades, the city’s dining options have gone from staid to starry, clocking restaurant opening after restaurant opening from both homegrown talent and celebrity chefs like Wolfgang Puck to Gordon Ramsey.
Steakhouses and power lunch spots are still plentiful if that’s your thing, but you can also explore food halls, tasting menus, and cuisine from all around the world. It definitely helps if you have a lobbyist-level expense account, although cool affordable spots are out there too, and be mindful of new (and controversial) service fees. So in addition to seeing the National Mall, the Smithsonian museums, and the monuments, here’s where to consider when you’re planning your dining out itinerary in Washington, D.C.
Read our complete Washington, D.C. travel guide here.
This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
