Best Soul Food Restaurants in Downtown

35 restaurants available nearby

1. Art and Soul

3.8

Excellent(4079)

Price: Moderate

• Soul food • Capitol Hill

Booked 11 times today

Our kitchen serves simple, honest food that reflects a devotion to quality and responsibility made possible by partnerships with like-minded farmers, artisans and growers who provide products that are sustainably sourced, whenever possible. Art and Soul exudes true warmth and hospitality. Playful regional elements such as hand-painted farm signs and traditional folk art are also used throughout the space in honor of the D.C. restaurants regional influences. In warmer weather, an expansive front patio provides an al fresco dining option with a fire-pit and grill.

A photo of Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley - DC restaurant

2. Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley - DC

4.2

Awesome(1576)

Price: Expensive

• Soul food • Downtown

Booked 94 times today

Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley in Downtown Washington DC is a haven for cocktail enthusiasts seeking a top-notch experience. This vibrant establishment not only excels in delivering creatively twisted southern classics but also shines with its cocktail offerings. Patrons rave about the "delicious and cute presentations" of drinks, underscoring the bar's commitment to quality and flair. The ambiance, described as having "good vibes" and being a "great spot for brunch or dinner," complements the expertly crafted cocktails, making it a must-visit destination. The glowing testimonials, such as drinks being "good food was good music was bomb," highlight the exceptional cocktail bar experience that awaits at Kitchen + Kocktails.

3. Georgia Brown's

4.6

Exceptional(8751)

Price: Expensive

• Soul food • Downtown

Booked 31 times today

At Georgia Brown’s in Downtown Washington, you'll be treated to a lively rendition of South Carolina Low-Country cuisine, where the food is as soulful as the setting. Imagine dining under bronze sculptures with a golden ambiance that enhances every bite. Reviewers rave about the authenticity and quality of the Southern dishes, declaring, "There cannot be better buttermilk fried chicken on the planet!" and praising the "best grits I’ve ever had!" The restaurant combines exceptional service with culinary excellence, making each visit memorable. It's not just a meal; it's an experience where "the food and service are consistently excellent," ensuring that Georgia Brown's is a must-visit for anyone seeking genuine Southern cuisine in the heart of Washington.

4. Flavorture

4.2

Awesome(499)

Price: Expensive

• Soul food • Woodley Park

Booked 1 time today

Flavorture in Woodley Park, Washington, is a beacon of American Soul cuisine that truly stands out in the culinary landscape. Nestled near the prestigious Omni Shoreham Hotel, Flavorture offers a harmonious blend of classic American flavors with a modern twist, courtesy of the brilliant Chef Mac! and Chef Pinke. Patrons rave about the "exceptional food and drinks," highlighting dishes like the sea bass with broccolini and the uniquely delightful crab fried rice. The vibrant Sunday brunch with live DJ entertainment and a "top shelf bourbon and whiskey centric bar" has guests exclaiming it's the "best brunch I’ve had in DC in a LONGGGGGG time!!!!" With its stellar service and cozy outdoor patio, Flavorture promises not just a meal, but a memorable dining experience, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking authentic and elevated American cuisine.

5. The Dabney

4.7

Exceptional(243)

Price: Very Expensive

• Soul food • Shaw

Booked 16 times today

Nestled in the vibrant Shaw neighborhood of Washington D.C., The Dabney shines as a beacon of Farm-to-table excellence. Since its inception in 2015, the restaurant has been lauded for its steadfast commitment to the Mid-Atlantic's rich agricultural heritage, earning a Michelin star annually since 2017 and being crowned Washingtonian Magazine's #1 restaurant in 2023. At the heart of The Dabney's experience is its open kitchen featuring a wood-burning hearth that brings a rustic warmth to their meticulously crafted 8-course tasting menu. Reviewers rave about the authenticity and innovation, noting it as a place where "everything was meticulously crafted, plated, and presented with pride, joy, and love" making each visit a "lasting memory." The Dabney's dedication to local ingredients and exceptional culinary artistry truly sets it apart as a premier destination for those seeking an authentic Farm-to-table experience.

6. Salt

4.7

Exceptional(583)

Price: Moderate

• Soul food • Arlington

Booked 31 times today

Salt in Arlington offers a sublime escape into a world of expertly crafted cocktails and an intimate bar atmosphere, making it a standout for Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service. Reviewers rave about the "unique and delicious cocktails" and the vibrant, "lowkey, boujee spot" vibe. The drink menu is consistently praised for its creativity and quality, with one guest exclaiming, "This place is the best in Rosslyn!" Whether it's the half-off bottled wine on Tuesdays or the innovative mocktails, every sip at Salt promises a memorable experience. Perfect for a date night or a chill evening, Salt's mixologists and their crafted concoctions ensure every visit is more than just a drink—it's a journey.

7. Maison Cheryl

4.4

Awesome(485)

Price: Expensive

• Soul food • Arlington

Booked 11 times today

At Maison Cheryl in Arlington, you can savor the essence of French New-American Bistro cuisine in a vibrant, modern setting. Chef Robert Maher has infused the menu with the spirit of Cheryl Glaessner, creating dishes that are both heartfelt and exquisitely crafted. Guests rave about the authenticity and quality of the food, with one noting, "The duck was absolutely amazing!" and another recommending, "You have to order the madeleines!" This spot is celebrated not just for its food but also for its outstanding service and inviting atmosphere, making every dining experience memorable. Whether for brunch, dinner, or a special occasion, Maison Cheryl stands out as a gem in Arlington, consistently providing a "phenomenal atmosphere, service, and food," making it a must-visit destination for lovers of genuine Bistro cuisine.

8. Provost

4.4

Awesome(100)

Price: Moderate

• Soul food • Brookland / Brentwood

Booked 1 time today

Provost in Brookland / Brentwood, Washington, is a gem of American cuisine, offering a harmonious blend of soul food and organic ingredients in a stunning rooftop setting. Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality of dishes like chicken and waffles and stuffed snapper, describing their dining experience as "phenomenal" and consistently "amazing." The restaurant's commitment to fresh, high-quality fare is echoed in glowing reviews, with one guest noting, "The texture, taste and explosion of flavors was an experience that I've rarely had." Provost's warm, attentive service and inviting atmosphere make it a top destination for both locals and visitors seeking a true taste of American culinary excellence. Join them for a memorable meal that promises to delight every palate.

A photo of McCormick & Schmick's - Arlington (Crystal City) restaurant

9. McCormick & Schmick's - Arlington (Crystal City)

4.3

Awesome(2927)

Price: Moderate

• Soul food • Arlington

Booked 16 times today

McCormick & Schmick's in Arlington is a prime destination for steak lovers seeking quality and authenticity. Nestled near key landmarks like Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and Arlington National Cemetery, this restaurant is renowned for its exceptional Steak dishes. Guests rave about the culinary excellence, with one diner exclaiming, "The food was amazing!" particularly highlighting the steak. The commitment to sourcing products from local ranches ensures that every steak is not only fresh but also supports regional suppliers. The inviting ambiance and meticulous service complement the dining experience, making it a must-visit for anyone craving a perfectly cooked steak in a fine dining setting. Whether you're a local or just passing through, McCormick & Schmick's promises a steak experience that's hard to beat.

A photo of DeCarlo's Restaurant restaurant

10. DeCarlo's Restaurant

4.7

Exceptional(613)

Price: Expensive

• Soul food • Tenleytown

Booked 3 times today

DeCarlo's Restaurant in Tenleytown, Washington, is a beacon of American cuisine, offering a dining experience that combines classic charm with culinary excellence. Established by Lucy DeCarlo, this restaurant has been serving the community for over 40 years with a menu that delights and satisfies. Celebrated for its "consistently great" food and "exceptional" service, DeCarlo's provides a setting that's both elegant and inviting. Patrons often praise the restaurant for its ability to maintain a 'wonderful atmosphere' perfect for both family dinners and intimate gatherings. With glowing reviews like "DeCarlo's is consistently outstanding," it's clear that this eatery stands as a cherished gem in the neighborhood, offering a menu that beautifully captures the essence of American dining.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

M
Mark
Washington, D.C. Area •4 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 19, 2024
Whitley was phenomenal! She was the only server, but handled a party of 14 like a pro! Food was good! Kudos to the chef who was by himself, as well! Well done!
More info
Milk and Honey - FairfaxPrice: Moderate• Creole / Cajun / Southern• Fairfax
•
3.7
J
Jennifer
Washington, D.C. Area •2 reviews
5.0
Dined on Sep 8, 2024
great food and service. wish I would have known about this place sooner. will be back soon
More info
ProvostPrice: Moderate• American• Brookland / Brentwood
•
4.4
DA
DavidA
Washington, D.C. Area •21 reviews
5.0
Dined on Jul 11, 2024
The Grove is a hidden gem. The food was very good and the service was excellent. It is a good place to go for a nice dinner with good size portions at a reasonable price. The ambience was nice with an upscale crowd. The hostess Ms. Ethel is very knowledgeable about The Grove and treated us like family. I highly recommend The Grove and will definitely return.
More info
The GrovePrice: Moderate• American• Upper Marlboro
•
4.2

Explore OpenTable

Downtown

Soul food

Best Soul Food Restaurants in Downtown

Price

Regions

Neighborhoods

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating Options

Award-winning

Accessibility

35 restaurants available nearby

1. Art and Soul

2. Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley - DC

3. Georgia Brown's

4. Flavorture

5. The Dabney

6. Salt

7. Maison Cheryl

8. Provost

9. McCormick & Schmick's - Arlington (Crystal City)

10. DeCarlo's Restaurant

See what locals rave about

Explore OpenTable