The Best Casual Restaurants in Washington D.C.

The Dabney in Washington offers a warm, relaxed space that focuses on an American farm-to-table approach. The open kitchen and the use of open-fire cooking give the room a comforting, homey feel. It’s a down-to-earth spot where you can settle in and enjoy a thoughtfully crafted experience.

Recommended by

Gilberto Briceño Gómez

Chef

The Dabney offers a sublime fusion of casual dining with a genuine American farm-to-table flair. The Dabney truly stands out as one of the most exceptional dining experiences I've had this year. Their menu is a masterpiece, seamlessly weaving together casual dining with an authentic American farm-to-table twist. The ambiance is both cozy and laid-back, making you feel right at home. The open kitchen and the allure of the open fire add a touch of warmth and intimacy to the dining experience. It's evident that every detail is crafted with love and passion. Highly recommended.

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Love, Makoto is a culinary collection from Chef Makoto Okuwa in Washington, DC, featuring multiple Japanese dining experiences under one roof. With both full-service and quick-service options, this single-operator concept offers a welcoming way to explore traditional and contemporary Japanese flavors. Whether you’re after a quick bite or a sit-down meal, it’s a convenient spot to sample a range of tastes in one place.

Recommended by

Tom Sietsema

Food Critic

Four different ways to eat Japanese under one roof Love, Makoto, a mash note to all things Japanese from chef Makoto Okuwa, features a sushi restaurant that explores classic and contemporary nigiri and handrolls and a steak house, Beloved BBQ, showcasing American and Japanese beef. There’s also the option of a bar and a fast-casual spot in back. Don't miss the udon 'mac' & cheese at Beloved, a nod to Americans.

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Causa/Amazonia is a two-in-one Peruvian restaurant in Washington that highlights traditional flavors in a modern way. Chef Carlos Delgado’s vision brings together coastal, Andean, and Amazonian influences in a lively setting with a colorful bar and rooftop patio. It’s a comfortable spot for everything from a quick drink to a relaxed meal.

Recommended by

Tom Sietsema

Food Critic

Two Peruvian standouts under one roof. Carlos Delgado says he wanted to “build a new way of Peruvian eating” and thats exactly what he accomplished with two eateries under one roof. Amazonia is a colorful bar and dining room with a jungle of a rooftop patio and snacks, including mouth-watering skewers. Causa showcases a six-course tasting menu that your waiter introduces as if it were a trip: “We’re going to touch on coastal cooking, then the Andes and finish in the Amazon.”

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2 Amys in Washington is a welcoming neighborhood spot known for its Neapolitan-style pizza and lively atmosphere. Locals and visitors appreciate its straightforward approach to hospitality, with staff compensation already built into menu prices. You can simply settle in, enjoy the warm vibe, and not worry about tipping.

Recommended by

Gilberto Briceño Gómez

Chef

2 Amys: Neapolitan pizza perfection in Washington with a vibrant ambiance 2 Amys is undeniably among the best pizza spots I've ever experienced. Their Neapolitan style is elevated to an art form, complemented by a fantastic wine selection and ever-changing weekly starters. The ambiance encapsulates you, making the dining experience even more memorable. I'd genuinely consider flying back to Washington just for another bite. It's that outstanding

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Benito’s Place in Washington offers authentic Latin American flavors in a warm, welcoming setting. Recommended by a local chef, it provides comforting meals that feel homemade. It’s a straightforward option for anyone seeking genuine, satisfying fare without unnecessary frills.

Recommended by

Gilberto Briceño Gómez

Chef

Benito's Place, Washington D.C.: Authentic Latin Flavors in the Capital When venturing into the culinary landscape of Washington D.C., it's not always easy to find spots that deliver genuine flavors reminiscent of Latin America. Enter Benito's Place, an establishment that pulsates with the authentic spirit of Latino cuisine right in the heart of the city. Recommended by Tim, the head chef at The Dabney, the recommendation set high expectations. Fortunately, Benito's Place exceeded them. Here, food is stripped down to its essence: pure, homely, and satisfying. Their sweet plantains are a comforting embrace of caramelized goodness, while the popusas and empanadas transport you straight to your grandma's kitchen—a place where every dish is made with love and tradition. For a Latino away from home, or anyone craving genuine Latin American fare, Benito's Place is an essential pit-stop. It stands as a testament that simple, well-made food can be the most memorable part of any journey. It's a treasure in D.C., and a must-visit for those seeking culinary authenticity.

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Bresca is a welcoming bistro in Washington, DC that highlights responsibly sourced ingredients in its French-influenced cooking. The space feels friendly yet refined, making it a comfortable spot for anyone to enjoy carefully crafted meals. With a focus on seasonality and quality, Bresca offers an inviting experience that’s both modern and approachable.

Recommended by

Lou Stejskal

Diner

Contemporary, French-influenced cooking. Charming, friendly space. Table-side duck press presentation with excellent results

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Chicatana in Washington stands out by letting you watch the cooking process up close, with fresh-squeezed juices and everything made to order. It’s a welcoming spot that serves street food–inspired bites with extra flair, creating a relaxed setting that feels refreshingly down-to-earth.

Recommended by

Tom Sietsema

Food Critic

A front-row seat to sublime Mexican cooking Why go here with so many Mexican competitors nearby? Because the three young owners are doing something different - ants are sprinkled throughout the menu, for instance - and incorporating touches you tend to see in fancier places, in pricier parts of DC. Drinks are made with fresh-squeezed juices and almost everything is cooked to order, a process you can see if you park in front of the kitchen counter. Picture street food made with flair: gorditas arrive in a slender, hand-painted box and tortillas are shaped from masa harina, pressed so thin you can read through them and brushed with lard before they land on the griddle. Im a fool for tacos stuffed with beef tongue braised for hours in cloves, bay leaf and garlic.

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Call Your Mother Deli – Park View is a quick, efficient spot in Washington that doesn’t compromise on quality. The bright, eye-catching interior invites you to pause for a moment or snap a photo while you enjoy your meal. Their attention to detail creates a welcoming setting that’s both casual and memorable.

Recommended by

Gilberto Briceño Gómez

Chef

Call Your Mother Bagel Shop: Efficient, Tasty, and Insta-Worthy In the bustling scene of quick bites, Call Your Mother Bagel Shop sets itself apart. Here, the grab & go concept is elevated, marrying efficiency with top-notch quality. Every bagel is a testament to perfection: generously portioned and consistently delicious. But it's not just about the bagels. The entire experience is enhanced by the shop's striking aesthetics, drawing heavy inspiration from Pinterest-worthy designs. The ambiance is an invitation to snap a photo, share a story, or simply admire while you devour your chosen treat. At the end of the day, it's a bagel shop. But the meticulous attention to detail, from the flavors to the design, showcases a level of dedication that's rare and commendable. Whether you're a bagel aficionado or just someone on the move, Call Your Mother Bagel Shop is a testament to how passion can elevate even the simplest of concepts into an extraordinary experience.

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Daru is a cozy neighborhood spot in Washington, DC, known for its playful take on Indian flavors and relaxed atmosphere. Led by a chef with popular local experience, it offers a refreshing approach to dining without feeling stuffy or formal. Its laid-back setting makes it easy to stop by for drinks, a light bite, or a full meal.

Recommended by

Carsten Schmidt

Culinary Explorer

This is one of these places where the food was so good that I just forgot to take photos, so only one shot of several dishes. Chef Sundas, coming from Indian restaurant royalty here in DC, Rasika, created an amazing, more innovative, more playful, but easily equally if not more impressive place that feels less pretentious and more accessible. It’s great to have this gem in the neighborhood. The meat dishes were standouts, the chicken tikka masala, the lamb shank, both were outstanding. At the same time you can also go here just for the cocktails and have the bread basket and some of the chutneys with that.

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Paraiso – Mexican Restaurant Taqueria & Mezcaleria in Washington, DC offers a laid-back spot to enjoy flavors inspired by the streets and home kitchens of Mexico. With its warm atmosphere and convenient location near local metro stations, it’s a welcoming place for catching up with friends or hosting casual get-togethers. The mezcal and tequila flights add an extra touch for those looking to explore new tastes.

Recommended by

Kevin Tien

Chef/Owner

I recommend all the dips and spread with the breads at Emilie's. The family styles are delicious as well. Do not skip on the desserts. The pastry chef is the best in DC.

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Dauphine’s brings a taste of New Orleans to downtown Washington, DC in a space that once housed the Washington Post. Its inviting atmosphere and lively bar pay homage to the city’s vibrant culture while offering a comfortable place to unwind. The menu highlights regional influences without feeling overly formal, making it a welcoming spot to stop by anytime.

Recommended by

Tom Sietsema

Food Critic

Dauphine’s nails so many delicious details. Located where the Washington Post once stood in downtown DC, Dauphine’s nails so many delicious details, it’s as if you’re enjoying them in the city that put them on the map: New Orleans. The stars of the show include paneed rabbit, head-on shrimp in a dark pool of birch beer and some of the city’s best cocktails.

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Honeymoon Chicken is a casual spot in Washington, DC that’s known for its fried chicken and welcoming vibe. Locals enjoy dropping by for brunch or grabbing takeout when they want something quick and satisfying. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it a comfortable choice for anyone looking to enjoy a simple, flavorful meal.

Recommended by

Jhonatan Cano

Restaurateur

One of the Best fried chicken in DC Super casual spot on the north side of Washington DC serving a very solid friend chicken. Excellent for brunch or take out!

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Immigrant Food at Planet Word in downtown Washington is a welcome break from the usual museum café scene, offering a casual counter option by day and table service in the evening. It’s a friendly spot where you can explore globally inspired flavors in a laid-back setting.

Recommended by

Tom Sietsema

Food Critic

Washington’s museum restaurants tend to be afterthoughts, designed more for refueling than reflecting. Immigrant Food Plus, neighbor to Planet Word downtown, is a novel exception. Picture international sandwiches and salads, ordered at a counter by day, and table service, top-drawer drinks and sophisticated fusion entrees at night. The biggest thrill on the menu is the $20 per person “dim sum experience,” which brings together Latin wontons, minty kibbeh and pork-filled steam buns in a three-tiered bamboo steamer.

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Lapis is a modern Afghan bistro in Washington, D.C. that serves homestyle dishes made with local, seasonal ingredients. Their approach draws on family recipes passed down over the years, and the restaurant has been recognized by Michelin for its fresh, inviting flavors. Visitors can stop by for lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch, and they only serve halal meats.

Recommended by

Carsten Schmidt

Culinary Explorer

Turning a successful French Bistro into an Afghan restaurant; not only saying that your food tastes like your mother’s food, but actually having your mother cook and prepare the food; and getting praise by no other than Michelin, all sounds a bit too good to be true, a fairy tale in restaurant land, but all this comes wonderfully together at Lapis. The flavors are all unique and familiar at the same time. You will find dishes that remind you of Middle Eastern or Indian cuisine, but there is always something different, something unique, a flavor you are not used to, but that wonderfully, just works. The standouts to me are Bamya, an okra stew, the lamb shank, the dal, and the mantoo shrimp dumplings. For dessert the sheer berenj, a rice pudding with pistachios, and most importantly cardamom is divine, as is the sherbet, a melt in your mouth orange almond pound cake. And if you still need reasons to go, the cocktail menu is worth a trip in itself.

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L’Ardente in Washington is filled with warm, inviting energy, featuring wooden farm beams, glittering chandeliers, and a lively wood-fired grill. Its name means “burning,” reflecting the restaurant’s passionate take on Italian cuisine. The playful atmosphere blends rustic touches with a modern flair, creating a relaxed yet stylish place to unwind.

Recommended by

Tom Sietsema

Food Critic

“Keep it simple but elegant,” says top chef David Deshaies. Wooden farm beams and Murano glass chandeliers share the sky-high ceiling and pastas as basic as bucatini alla carbonara are offered alongside a 40-layer (count ‘em!) lasagna. The dancing flames of the wood-fired grill explain the Italian name: “burning,” as in passionate. This is a playful restaurant. The “risotto” is actually minced calamari and a pizza topped with pomegranate seeds and shaved Brussels sprouts looks like Christmas. Ask for the tiramisu and it arrives in a chocolate globe that’s ignited with rum at the table.

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Lutèce is a French neobistro in Washington, DC, recognized by the Michelin Guide for its modern, straightforward cooking. The restaurant creates a warm, cozy setting and highlights local, seasonal ingredients in each meal. It’s a relaxed spot to enjoy thoughtfully chosen wines and cocktails without feeling fussy.

Recommended by

Jhonatan Cano

Restaurateur

One of the most exciting restaurants in DC right now French bistro cooking one of the most delicious food inndc right now. Amazing duck dish, Potato caviar and lovely desserts

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Mariscos 1133 is a welcoming neighborhood spot in Washington that highlights Latin-inspired seafood. The relaxed setting and attention to detail make it a comfortable place for both everyday meals and special gatherings. It’s a friendly choice if you’re looking for a fresh, inviting dining experience in the area.

Recommended by

Tom Sietsema

Food Critic

The definition of what it means to be a neighborhood restaurant. No part of the experience is overlooked. Here’s the definition of what it means to be a neighborhood restaurant, a place whose cooking, attention and prices encourage regular drop-ins by locals. The name underscores the restaurant’s theme — Mariscos is Spanish for “seafood” —and among the stars on the epic menu are tuna tostadas and whole fried flounder. No part of the experience is overlooked. Booths make for a pandemic-friendly dining room and two dozen wines are offered by the glass, at an average of $10. Don’t eat fish? The Mexican restaurant also excels at churrasco and birria tacos.

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Ruta Ukrainian Restaurant is the first Ukrainian restaurant in the DMV area, bringing a taste of Ukrainian culture to Washington. They opened their doors in April 2023 and later expanded to Bethesda. By combining time-honored recipes with a modern approach, the restaurant offers a glimpse into the resilience and history behind Ukrainian cuisine.

Recommended by

Tom Sietsema

Food Critic

DC gets a taste of Ukraine on Capitol Hill “I’m here because of borscht,” says chef Dima Martseniuk, who left the popular Veselka in NY to open shop in DC. His beet soup faces friendly competition on the menu from dumplings, honey cake and a cocktail in the colors of the Ukrainian flag. If you want to see support for Ukraine in its war with Russia, it's here. Hello, Pete Buttigieg. Good evening, Oksana Markarova.

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Pascual is a cozy neighborhood spot on Capitol Hill in Washington, run by a husband-and-wife team who’ve honed their skills at some of the most respected Mexican restaurants. The dining room is small and simply decorated, giving it a welcoming feel that immediately puts you at ease. It’s a relaxed place where their years of expertise shine through without overwhelming the homey setting.

Recommended by

Carsten Schmidt

Culinary Explorer

Walking into small corner restaurants deep inside residential neighborhoods was one of many delights during a pre-COVID trip to Buenos Aires. The stand out was a place that was an Italian coffee place in the morning, a sandwich stall for lunch, and a world-class restaurant in the evening. It was also a corner store, and while always busy, it was never packed enough to require a long wait. Many US cities have zoned out experiences like this, requiring you to head to downtown areas to eat out. And that is a shame because, in this post-COVID world where many of us work from home, downtown is usually a painful drive away. Now, on Capitol Hill, which I call home, there are some restaurants, as well as some entertainment hubs, like H Street and 8th Street, but outside them, not much. All that changed with the recently opened Mexican restaurant Pascual. When the news broke of not just a Mexican restaurant blocks away but a Mexican restaurant with the pedigree that Pascual showcases (chef Isabel Coss worked at Pujol), I was admittedly more than excited. As the renovation of a former BBQ place took shape, I regularly took detours to check if they had opened. And now, finally, Pascual is open to the public, a small, simply decorated corner place that makes you feel right at home. This just being the second week, everything looked like it had been around for years, with no mishaps. The first surprise was their mezcal selection, which, to my surprise included Neta, a brand I have enjoyed in Los Angeles many times but hadn’t come across East yet. Instead of picking one of the larger dishes, we opted for several of the smaller plates, while it looked like most people went with the lamb barbacoa. But the guacamole platter with various salsas and pickled vegetables and fruits made us quickly forget our barbacoa envy. While the ceviche was maybe a bit too saucy (yet still highly flavorful), the steak tartar was probably the most unexpected dish. The dish didn’t try to be French; it was an outstanding interpretation of this dish, served with wonderfully warm and thin freshly made tortillas. The taco al Pastor was juicy, though I would have loved to see the pineapple charred a bit for more of a smoky flavor. But seeing this taco served as a single taco was refreshing since, in most places, you have to get three tacos no matter how hungry you are. Lastly, for dessert, we shared a flourless chocolate cake served with a magical green hoja santa sauce, which was another clear highlight of the dinner. While DC’s Mexican restaurant scene is growing by the day, Pascual is in a league of its own. It is the first Mexican restaurant in DC that allows for comparisons to New York and Los Angeles. And it does so in a unique way, being not just a restaurant but also a neighbor. And next time I have to try the barbacoa.

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Zaytinya by José Andrés brings together the laid-back flavors of Greece, Turkey, and Lebanon in Washington. It offers a range of mezze-style options that are meant to be shared, making it a friendly choice for lunch or dinner. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, with consistently flavorful dishes that draw on classic Mediterranean techniques.

Recommended by

Jhonatan Cano

Restaurateur

Best casual Mediterranean in DC Zaytinya combines mezze from Greece, Turkey and Lebanon. The food is always consistent and great for lunch or dinner. Seafood is the star with the octopus Santorini or the Garides me Anitho.

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Amparo Fondita offers contemporary Mexican cuisine in Washington, highlighting the flavors of Mexico’s coastal regions. They use fresh, seasonal ingredients alongside top-quality Mexican products, creating meals that feel genuine and satisfying. The setting is welcoming and relaxed, making it a comfortable place to enjoy distinctive Mexican tastes.

Recommended by

Tom Sietsema

Food Critic

Beautiful ceviche. Bodacious pozole. Awesome tacos, which the chef makes himself using corn from Oaxaca — ground in-house and stuffed with fillings including lamb braised in mole. Christian Irabien is cooking some of the most exciting Mexican food in Washington right now. And he sweats all the important details.

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Das Ethiopian Cuisine sits in Georgetown’s historic district and offers a cozy two-story space with an inviting patio. The restaurant focuses on serving fresh, locally sourced fare in a welcoming atmosphere. Guests appreciate its inclusive vibe and attentive service, making it a relaxed spot for all occasions.

Recommended by

Parker Milner

Food Editor

A meal on the patio at Georgetown’s Das Ethiopian Cuisine is a wonderful introduction to fresh injera topped with saucy selections like beef kay wat, chicken infillay and chicken doro wat.

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Reveler’s Hour is a relaxed, welcoming restaurant in Washington, D.C. Locals appreciate its comfortable setting, where you can enjoy dinner and a good selection of drinks. The friendly vibe and thoughtful approach to what’s on offer make it a favorite spot in the city.

Recommended by

Parker Milner

Food Editor

One of my favourite places to eat in Washington D.C.

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Imperfecto is Chef Enrique Limardo’s second restaurant in Washington, DC, inspired by a blend of Mediterranean and Latin American influences. The space embraces the idea that imperfection drives creativity, giving it a welcoming vibe while still feeling refined. Open daily for dinner and on weekends for brunch, it offers a thoughtful setting for a relaxed meal in the city’s West End.

Recommended by

Carsten Schmidt

Culinary Explorer

The second DC restaurant by Seven Reasons’s chef Enrique Limardo, this one in DC’s West End. I will admit I enjoyed Imperfecto more than Seven Reasons, the dishes were extremely fresh and light. The Burrata and Ancient Salad were my favorite dishes followed by a more Latin inspired, ceviche like, Tuna Tartare.

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The Bazaar by José Andrés is located in the historic Post Office building near the White House, fulfilling the chef’s longtime wish to open there. Its changing menu draws on both classic and modern cooking styles, making it a comfortable spot that balances tradition with new ideas.

Recommended by

Tom Sietsema

Food Critic

Jose Andres’s dream come true in DC The splashiest addition yet to his local portfolio, the Bazaar by Jose Andres represents the chef’s decades-long hope to open in the historic Post Office building near the White House. The epic menu looks backward and forward but also lets diners savor the here and now. Imagine an onion soup that’s by turns hot and cold in every spoonful, tiny cones filled with crab salad and a “Philly cheesesteak” reimagined with Wagyu beef and blimp-like “air bread.” The gleaming Waldorf Astoria hotel is the perfect host for the luxe experience.

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The Red Hen has been a welcoming neighborhood spot in Washington for a decade under chef-owner Mike Friedman. It’s known for its cozy feel, with friendly service, warm lighting, and a wood-burning oven. Consistency and quality have kept diners returning year after year.

Recommended by

Tom Sietsema

Food Critic

Chef-owner Mike Friedman launched the popular neighborhood spot 10 years ago. Consistency and quality account for the nice run. The pastas are Biden-approved and delicious. Winey beef cheeks with pappardelle, elevated with fresh oregano, call to me when it’s cold out. Squid ink linguine with calamari, sparked with lemon and ginger, are good anytime. The chef thinks of his restaurant as “ a warm blanket,” and sure enough, honeyed lighting, friendly service and a wood-burning oven make it a comfort.

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Hitching Post Restaurant has been serving soul food in Washington’s Petworth neighborhood since 1967. Its laid-back atmosphere and longtime happy hour make it a welcoming gathering place for locals. With a history that reflects classic flavors and friendly service, it’s a spot that has kept its charm over the decades.

Recommended by

Tom Sietsema

Food Critic

Time mostly stands still at this soul food source in DC’s Petworth neighborhood, where happy hour is priced like yesteryear and the crowd favorites include anything fried: chicken, whiting, even spinach. Chef-owner Barry Dindyal grew up in Guyana eating Indian food, hence the sublime shrimp curry, among other dishes. His coleslaw and potato salad taste like blue ribbon winners.

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Perry’s Restaurant in Washington is led by award-winning chef Masako Morishita, who has brought fresh perspectives to its Japanese-inspired cooking. It’s also known for a Sunday drag brunch that’s been a tradition since 1991, adding some lively flair to the weekend. Together, these features have made Perry’s a familiar name in the local dining scene.

Recommended by

Tom Sietsema

Food Critic

Sushi has long been a lure here; the arrival last year of Masako Morishita — the first Japanese woman to pilot the kitchen — introduced some of the most inventive dishes ever. Udon noodles get the carbonara treatment, and crab cakes, veined with shiso and set in dashi, marry the Mid-Atlantic with Japan. Sunday mornings might be the most novel meal of all: drag brunch, a staple since 1991.

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