Best Southern American Restaurants in Bethesda

Price

$$
$$$
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Regions

District of ColumbiaMaryland - DC SuburbsVirginia - DC Suburbs

Neighborhoods

Adams MorganArlingtonBethesdaBrookland / BrentwoodBuzzard PointCapitol Hill

Top Rated

CharmingFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for brunch

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

MICHELIN

Accessibility

Gender-neutral restroomWheelchair access

242 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Black's Bar & Kitchen restaurant

1. Black's Bar & Kitchen

4.7

Exceptional(3410)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Bethesda

Booked 29 times today

Black's Bar & Kitchen in Bethesda truly stands out in the realm of American cuisine, offering a dining experience that is "absolutely amazing," as many patrons have raved. This culinary hotspot is renowned for its commitment to using only the highest quality local produce, meats, and seafood, ensuring every dish is as authentic and fresh as possible. The restaurant's seafood offerings, including the "great oysters" and exquisite mussels, are particularly celebrated. The warm, welcoming atmosphere and attentive service further enhance the dining experience, making Black's Bar & Kitchen a must-visit for anyone seeking genuine American flavors.

2. Barrel & Crow

4.4

Awesome(1649)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Bethesda

Booked 19 times today

Barrel & Crow in Bethesda is a true gem for Farm-to-table enthusiasts, celebrated for its commitment to using locally sourced produce and proteins. With a menu that "changes with the seasons," this restaurant excels in crafting refined comfort food that feels both familiar and innovative. Guests rave about the “delicious” meals, highlighting dishes like the smoked duck and soft shell crab. The chef's dedication to accommodating dietary restrictions ensures everyone feels welcome. The ambiance is described as lively yet intimate, with a "great selection of local beers and bourbons" to complement the exquisite dishes. Barrel & Crow truly embodies authentic Farm-to-table dining.

3. On St Elmo

4.6

Exceptional(28)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Bethesda

Booked 8 times today

On St. Elmo, a vibrant fusion of restaurant, lounge, and entertainment venue. Located at 4915 St. Elmo Avenue in the heart of Downtown Bethesda, this vibrant space will showcase American coastal, Mediterranean-inspired cuisine amidst an atmosphere brimming with creativity and flair.

4. Fialova

3.7

Very Good(19)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Bethesda

Booked 1 time today

Fialova is an American craft restaurant inspired by local farmers market fare. Together, the food and ambience provide a warm yet lively feel. The space is perfectly suited and designed for high-powered business meetings, individual work sessions, evening drinks, or family dinners.

A photo of The Salt Line - Bethesda restaurant

5. The Salt Line - Bethesda

4.5

Awesome(645)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Bethesda

Booked 53 times today

The Salt Line - Bethesda is a standout destination for authentic American cuisine, seamlessly blending New England charm with Chesapeake flair. This popular spot is renowned for its exceptional seafood dishes and friendly service, making it a beloved choice for diners seeking "reliably good food and drinks." The menu, curated by award-winning Chef Kyle Bailey and Executive Chef Eric McKamey, features classics like oysters and lobster rolls, alongside delightful new surprises. Guests rave about the "phenomenal food and service," and the restaurant's vibrant yet cozy atmosphere ensures a dining experience that is both memorable and satisfying. Don't miss out on this Bethesda gem!

6. Silver

4.5

Awesome(2258)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Bethesda

Booked 55 times today

Silver, located in Bethesda, shines as a beacon of New American cuisine, delivering authentic and contemporary American dishes crafted by award-winning Chef Ype Von Hengst. Diners rave about the "delicious" fare, from the "best pan-seared scallops" to the irresistible lamb meatball appetizers. Silver’s commitment to using ingredients from local farms ensures that each dish bursts with freshness and flavor. The menu is expansive, featuring everything from hearty brunch options to exquisite dinners, captivating both traditional palates and adventurous foodies. With its impeccable service and vibrant ambiance, Silver offers "an all-around excellent experience" that keeps guests returning for more.

A photo of Morton's The Steakhouse - Bethesda restaurant

7. Morton's The Steakhouse - Bethesda

4.6

Exceptional(2140)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Bethesda

Booked 16 times today

Morton's The Steakhouse in Bethesda is a beacon of authentic American cuisine, renowned for its "legendary experience" and commitment to serving "The Best Steak… Anywhere." This celebrated steakhouse excels in delivering USDA prime-aged steaks that are consistently praised as "top notch," complemented by fresh, succulent seafood. Diners frequently highlight the "fantastic filet done to a perfect medium rare" and the "sublime 64-ounce dry-aged ribeye" as standout dishes. With an inviting ambiance and attentive service, Morton's is ideal for celebrations, consistently earning glowing reviews for its "exceptional service" and "memorable dining experiences." Embrace the true essence of American dining at Morton's.

8. Persimmon

4.8

Exceptional(2958)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Bethesda

Booked 29 times today

Persimmon in Bethesda is a true gem for those seeking exquisite Contemporary American cuisine. With consistent rave reviews, it's celebrated as one of the "best and most consistent restaurants" in the area. Diners are delighted by the "superb" food and "wonderful" service, making it a go-to spot for residents and visitors alike. The menu showcases a brilliant array of dishes that exude authenticity and creativity, like their acclaimed duck breast and scallops over risotto. The warm, welcoming atmosphere paired with the attention to detail ensures each visit is memorable. Experience the vibrant flavors of Contemporary American dining at this beloved bistro!

A photo of True Food Kitchen - Bethesda restaurant

9. True Food Kitchen - Bethesda

4.5

Awesome(2395)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Bethesda

Booked 28 times today

True Food Kitchen in Bethesda is a haven for those who cherish authentic and high-quality Vegetarian and Vegan cuisine. Praised for its "delicious plant-based options," this restaurant offers a menu that is both diverse and innovative, making vegetarian dining a delightful experience. Guests rave about the "Edamame Dumplings" and "Ancient Grains bowl with tofu," highlighting the fresh and nutrient-dense ingredients that True Food Kitchen is renowned for. The vibrant dishes are not only "bursting with flavor and freshness," but the service is also "attentive and spot on," ensuring a dining experience that leaves you feeling "energized, satisfied, and most importantly, feeling great."

10. matchbox Bethesda

4.3

Awesome(204)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Bethesda

Booked 10 times today

Matchbox Bethesda offers an exceptional American dining experience by expertly crafting classic bistro fare with a contemporary twist. Renowned for their wood-fired pizzas, mini burgers, and chef-inspired entrées like pan-seared sea bass and oven-roasted filet mignon, "the food is delicious and reasonably priced," as one diner raved. The restaurant's ambiance blends a warm, homely vibe with local charm, thanks to hand-painted murals and cozy design elements. Guests are drawn in by large windows showcasing the vibrant street life and the blazing pizza oven. With "excellent ambiance, food, and service," Matchbox Bethesda has become a go-to spot for both locals and visitors.

‘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

D
Dan
Chicago / Illinois •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
10/10. Every item tasted great and phenomenal service!
More info
Succotash PRIMEPrice: Moderate• American• Penn Quarter
•
4.6
M
Monty
Denver / Colorado •13 reviews
4.0
Dined 2 days ago
The food is absolutely amazing. The catfish taste so good with the grits. The desserts were perfect to finish off the evening. The service at the bar was not that impressive.
More info
Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley - DCPrice: Expensive• Southern• Downtown
•
4.2
A
Ann
South Carolina •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
We had a large group. All in all, we had many different entrees and all received praise. The biscuit and bread basket was delicious!
More info
Georgia Brown'sPrice: Expensive• Low Country• Downtown
•
4.3
S
Steve
Washington, D.C. Area •9 reviews
4.0
Dined 4 days ago
Great menu - lots of variety. Good mix of a fun venue but with good food too.
More info
Yardbird Table & Bar - Washington D.C.Price: Expensive• Contemporary Southern• McPherson Square
•
4.5
CM
CMW5
Washington, D.C. Area •1 review
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Corey, our server, was attentive and provided excellent service. The ambience on the water and the high end decor gives this venue a luxurious feel.
More info
Hen Quarter PrimePrice: Expensive• Southern• Washington
•
4.4

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Bethesda

Southern american

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