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Best French Restaurants in Downtown

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32 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Opaline Bar and Brasserie restaurant
1. Opaline Bar and Brasserie
4.3
Awesome(298)
Price: Moderate
• French • Downtown
Booked 10 times today
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown Washington DC, Opaline Bar and Brasserie offers a slice of French culinary excellence that embodies the unhurried and quality-focused dining experiences France is celebrated for. Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality, with one review highlighting, "the French toast was excellent" and another praising the "amazing Cherry Blossom Tea and incredible First Lady inspired cocktails!" Opaline's atmosphere is consistently described as "calm, peaceful, and quiet," perfect for those seeking a delightful escape with a French twist. The restaurant's commitment to accommodating dietary needs and its superb service further enhance the dining experience, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists alike.
A photo of Michele’s restaurant
2. Michele’s
4.3
Awesome(291)
Price: Expensive
• French • West Loop
Booked 4 times today
Michele's, located in the vibrant West Loop of Washington, offers a delightful take on Contemporary French cuisine, crafted by MICHELIN-starred Chef Matt Baker. This restaurant stands out for its commitment to seasonal and high-quality ingredients, presented in a manner that's both sophisticated and accessible. Guests rave about the innovative dishes, like the "beef tartare and the potato truffle tarte … WOW," highlighting the unique blend of flavors that Chef Baker brings to the table. The atmosphere is described as perfect for any occasion, from a casual burger night to a special date, with live music and prime steaks enhancing the experience. Michele's not only promises but delivers a "delightful dining experience" with each visit, making it a must-visit destination for lovers of fine Contemporary French dining in Washington D.C.
A photo of La Grande Boucherie - DC restaurant
3. La Grande Boucherie - DC
4.4
Awesome(1307)
Price: Very Expensive
• French • Washington
Booked 183 times today
Nestled just a block away from the White House at 699 14th Street NW, La Grande Boucherie is a beacon of Steakhouse excellence in Washington D.C. Celebrated for its impeccably cooked steaks, the restaurant offers an exquisite meat program that shines through dishes like the "perfectly cooked and seasoned" steak frites. Patrons often rave about the "amazing" filet mignon au poivre and the Australian ribeye, noting them as "cooked to perfection." The grand Art Nouveau style venue enhances the dining experience, making every meal feel special and elevated. Reviews consistently highlight the stellar service and vibrant atmosphere, making La Grande Boucherie a must-visit for steak lovers in the heart of D.C.
A photo of Petite Cerise restaurant
4. Petite Cerise
4.7
Exceptional(140)
Price: Expensive
• French • Mount Vernon Square
Booked 79 times today
Part neighborhood café, part energetic bistro, Petite Cerise is located in a bright and lively historic corner space in Shaw/Mount Vernon Triangle. Petite Cerise features separate à la carte menus for brunch, lunch, and dinner. In addition, Petite Cerise has a Coffee Counter open Tuesday - Friday opening at 8am serving classic coffee and espresso preparations, housemade pastries, and other breakfast items to go or sit down.Dinner offers both an à la carte menu along with a Prix Fixe option. The focus in the evening is to craft unique and innovative dishes utilizing the very best ingredients within the Mid-Atlantic region and beyond skillfully prepared through a French lens.If you decide to join us for a morning coffee, quick mid-day bite, stretch out your lunch over a glass of wine, or gather with friends for an indulgent and creative dinner, we invite you here to celebrate and enjoy.
A photo of Cafe Du Parc restaurant
5. Cafe Du Parc
4.3
Awesome(2569)
Price: Expensive
• French • Downtown
Booked 38 times today
Café du Parc, a Parisian-inspired gem in the heart of Washington, D.C., offers an authentic café experience reminiscent of a sidewalk café in Europe. Nestled steps from the National Mall, this café provides not only a prime location but also serves top-notch coffee and pastries that transport you straight to France. Patrons rave about the "perfectly flaky delicious almond croissant and ham and cheese croissant," which are both splendid highlights of their dining experience. The café's atmosphere is praised as "welcoming and cozy," making it a preferred spot for both locals and visitors. It's the attention to traditional French culinary details and the bustling, yet inviting ambiance that makes Café du Parc a standout destination for café cuisine lovers looking for quality and authenticity in the capital city.
A photo of Chez Billy Sud restaurant
6. Chez Billy Sud
4.8
Exceptional(2964)
Price: Very Expensive
• French • Georgetown
Booked 52 times today
Chez Billy Sud, nestled in the historic neighborhood of Georgetown, Washington, D.C., is renowned for its authentic Wine Bar, Bar à Vin. This charming spot stands out for its "great wine selection" and has been hailed for its "great advice re what to order," ensuring a perfectly paired wine experience with every meal. Visitors frequently rave about the ambiance and the exceptional food, but it is the wine that completes the dining experience, offering "good value propositions in terms of wine" that beautifully complement the classic French fare. Whether you are a wine aficionado or a casual drinker, Chez Billy Sud’s Wine Bar offers a cozy getaway to indulge in a meticulously curated wine list that promises to enhance your meal and elevate your evening.
A photo of La Bise restaurant
7. La Bise
4.7
Exceptional(927)
Price: Expensive
• French • Downtown
Booked 13 times today
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown Washington, DC, La Bise is a gem for Contemporary French / American cuisine. Celebrated for its “delicious, modern French cooking,” this restaurant offers a sophisticated yet approachable menu that impresses with its authenticity and creativity. One diner raved about the “exquisite attention to detail, harmonious marriage of flavors and textures, and beautifully plated” dishes, particularly highlighting the foie gras as “velvety and luscious.” The ambiance is “elegantly playful,” perfect for both casual and dressed-up outings. With its proximity to the White House, La Bise not only promises but delivers an exceptional dining experience that keeps patrons returning for more. Whether you're a local or visiting, La Bise's blend of top-notch service, vibrant setting, and culinary excellence makes it a must-visit destination.
A photo of Bresca restaurant
8. Bresca
4.7
Exceptional(878)
Price: Expensive
• French • U Street Corridor
Booked 28 times today
Bresca, nestled in the vibrant U Street Corridor of Washington, DC, is a beacon of contemporary French cuisine. The restaurant has garnered glowing accolades for its innovative approach to French dining, skillfully blending Eastern and Western culinary traditions under the guidance of Chef Ryan Ratino. Diners rave about the exceptional quality of dishes such as the Potato Pierogi and Diver Scallop, highlighting the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients which "sing of summer." The atmosphere is described as a perfect mix of cozy bistro charm and refined elegance, making every visit memorable. With accolades like "best duck I’ve ever had" and experiences that exceed expectations, Bresca stands out as a pinnacle of culinary excellence and creativity.
A photo of La Chaumiere restaurant
9. La Chaumiere
4.8
Exceptional(4835)
Price: Expensive
• French • Georgetown
Booked 31 times today
La Chaumière in Georgetown, Washington, is a celebrated gem among Contemporary French cuisine enthusiasts, boasting 48 years of culinary excellence. Known for its enchanting ambiance reminiscent of a French country inn, the restaurant offers a delightful array of dishes that blend traditional flavors with modern creativity. From the acclaimed housemade Boudin Blanc to the classic Grand Marnier soufflé, each dish is crafted to perfection. La Chaumière has impressively scooped up the "100 Best Restaurants" award 29 times since 1978, underscoring its commitment to quality and authenticity. Reviewers rave about its "exquisite blend of traditional and innovative dishes" and consistently "impeccable service," making it a must-visit for an authentic Contemporary French dining experience right in the heart of Georgetown.
A photo of Bistro Du Jour Capitol Hill restaurant
10. Bistro Du Jour Capitol Hill
4.7
Exceptional(140)
Price: Moderate
• French • Washington
Booked 26 times today
Bistro du Jour is a Parisian bistro from KNEAD Hospitality + Design. Serving traditional fare like Macaron Au Foie, Croque Madame, Salade Niçoise, French Onion Soup and Steak Frites as well as an extensive selection of bubbly and an exciting list of cocktails and aperitifs.We are open for Breakfast, Weekend Brunch, Lunch, Dinner and Happy Hour.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Claudio
    Baltimore / Maryland •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We didn’t know what to expect from Petite Cerise, it was our first time. Dinner was delicious, service was excellent and to be honest I can’t think of a negative thing to say. Prix Fixe menu is the best way to taste different options from the menu and don’t forget to try the Parisian Gnocchi, fantastic!
    More info
    Petite CerisePrice: Expensive• French• Mount Vernon Square
    •
    4.7
  • ChristinaVIP
    Greater Boston •15 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Great experience from the cocktails to the salad to the main meal and dessert. The service was exceptional and we look forward to returning. 
    More info
    Chez Billy SudPrice: Very Expensive• French• Georgetown
    •
    4.8
  • Rima
    Washington, D.C. Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We visited La Grande Boucherie during Christmas day. - restaurant looked very festive and cozy. - live music - food 4 stars out of 5. Oysters were amazing. french onion soup was ok, but nothing special. I ate FILET MIGNON and it was really good. My husband had STEAK FRITES and said it was nothing special, not going to eat it next time. For the desert we ordered PROFITEROLES it was tasty and alot! Overall experience was nice, we will come back!
    More info
    La Grande Boucherie - DCPrice: Very Expensive• French• Washington
    •
    4.4
  • BrionVIP
    Washington, D.C. Area •2 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Food was good. Salmon was great. Chicken was a bit dry but well seasoned. Desserts were not good except for the chocolate coffee cake. Love the ambiance and good customer service Overall very solid Christmas dinner. a bit overpriced; maybe worth $70-$100
    More info
    Opaline Bar and BrasseriePrice: Moderate• French• Downtown
    •
    4.3
  • OpenTable DinerVIP
    Washington, D.C. Area •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 14, 2024
    The food was excellent and better than I expected. The restaurant has a casual elegance. I will return.
    More info
    Michele’sPrice: Expensive• Contemporary French / American• West Loop
    •
    4.3

Discover best French restaurants in Downtown

Discover the essence of French cuisine in the bustling heart of Washington, D.C., Downtown District of Columbia. This area is renowned for its vibrant dining scene, offering a range of French dining experiences that cater to all palates, from classic dishes to contemporary interpretations. Each restaurant in this locale prides itself on delivering authentic French flavors, impeccable service, and an atmosphere that transports diners straight to the streets of Paris. Patrons can expect expertly crafted menus featuring specialties like foie gras, cassoulet, and exquisite seafood, highlighting the culinary expertise and innovation that these establishments bring to the table. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely meal on a quaint patio or indulging in a sophisticated indoor setting, the French restaurants in Downtown D.C. promise a memorable dining experience. Perfect for both casual outings and special occasions, these venues consistently receive high praise for both their food and ambiance, ensuring every visit is uniquely delightful. Join us downtown for a taste of France, where every meal is a celebration of rich flavors and culinary artistry.

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