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Best Restaurants for Foodies in Southwest Waterfront

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54 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Moonraker restaurant
4.5
Awesome(350)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Southwest Waterfront
Booked 19 times today
Welcome to Moonraker at Pendry Washington DC – The Wharf, a signature rooftop hideaway with a Japanese inspired menu of light bites and sushi alongside handcrafted cocktails, a curated selection of Japanese whiskeys, and more. All set around a stunning central bar boasting panoramic views of the waterfront. A laidback lounge by day evolves into a buzzy nightlife scene alongside a handsome bar that sets the scene for intimate soirées, nighttime meet ups and weekend afternoons by the Potomac.Introducing Capitol Brunch. Meet us at Moonraker for an all-new weekend brunch menu, featuring everything from bottomless brunch cocktails to Japanese-infused breakfast classics like Shokupan French Toast and Tokyo Chicken and Waffles, sushi and more alongside live jazz music and a stunning view of Washington’s best.
A photo of Mi Vida, District Wharf restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(2378)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Southwest Waterfront
Booked 54 times today
Chef Roberto Santibañez creates a menu inspired by Mexican street food and traditional home cooking of his country, but in a modern, elevated presentation. Guests can enjoy traditional dishes such as Carne Asada, a variety of Tacos, Seasonal Fish, Ceviches and other Contemporary Mexican creations.
A photo of Jônt restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(91)
Price: Very Expensive
• French / Japanese • U Street Corridor
Booked 9 times today
At Jônt, we are a team of young and inspired chefs taking down the walls between kitchen and guests and taking you on a culinary adventure. Immerse yourself in a progressive tasting menu focusing on the simple, yet luxurious, ingredients around the world with deep inspiration from Japanese cuisine.We challenge the seasons, navigate beyond the limits of time and break with tradition— getting playful with process and tricky with techniques at the intersection of place and possibility.Jônt has been recognized with two Michelin stars since 2021.
A photo of Zaytinya - DC restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(19302)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • Penn Quarter
Booked 275 times today
Under the direction of celebrated chef José Andrés and concept chef Michael Costa, Zaytinya offers an innovative mezze menu inspired by Turkish, Greek, and Lebanese cuisines served up in a sleek and modern setting. Building on Jose’s deep knowledge of Mediterranean cooking and years of research and travel, the menu features shared small plates of authentic and innovative fare, creative cocktails, and unique Mediterranean wines, making Zaytinya one of the most exciting restaurants in Washington, DC.
A photo of The Dabney restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(245)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Shaw
Booked 21 times today
Located in historic Blagden Alley in D.C.'s Shaw neighborhood since 2015, The Dabney continues to pay tribute to the wonderful farmers, watermen, and purveyors of the mid-Atlantic region whom provide some of the best and most unique products in the country. We celebrate these ingredients by preparing them in a large wood burning hearth which is the centerpiece of our open kitchen. The current dining room experience is an 8-course tasting menu honoring the Mid-Atlantic's bounty. We offer an additional 3-course experience at our bar and bar area tables. Walk-in guests are welcome to enjoy the bar area as well.The Dabney has been awarded one Michelin star every year since 2017, James Beard Foundation Best Chef Mid-Atlantic for Chef Jeremiah Langhorne in 2018, and Washingtonian Magazine's #1 restaurant in 2023. At this time we are unable to accommodate severe allium and dairy allergies as well as vegan and vegetarian diets.
A photo of Tosca restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(4509)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Downtown
Booked 19 times today
Tosca is a foodie haven, offering a unique dining experience with contemporary northern Italian cuisine. Reviewers rave about the 'creative food selection', 'outstanding' food, and 'top notch service'. The restaurant's focus on seasonal ingredients, paired with a modern, elegant setting, makes it a go-to for foodies in Washington, D.C.
A photo of Dirty Habit | The Glass House restaurant
4.4
Awesome(2233)
Price: Moderate
• Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service • Penn Quarter
Booked 32 times today
Dirty Habit DC is a globally inspired New American restaurant & bar in a hip, edgy hotel space with private courtyard space. Just a perfect location for happy hour cocktails, events and private bookings. Open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner and late night bites.
A photo of Cranes restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(300)
Price: Expensive
• Spanish • Penn Quarter
Booked 4 times today
Explore the intersections of Spanish and Japanese cuisine at Cranes, a restaurant and sake lounge by chef Pepe Moncayo. Chef Pepe’s contemporary dishes spotlight the similarities he has found with the ingredients, techniques and culinary viewpoints of Japan and Spain. From cooking style to ingredient and flavor combinations, his Spanish Kaiseki is a natural cultural and culinary marriage. The design of the 12,000 square foot restaurant space includes a beautifully striking bar, large sake lounge, raised dining area, open kitchen, and private dining room suitable for 30 guests. The sleek, modern, yet approachable space draws on the chef’s Spanish and Japanese influences. Bright polished metals and thoughtfully placed wood elements layer amongst dark textures and dramatic lighting.
A photo of Succotash PRIME restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(3860)
Price: Moderate
• American • Penn Quarter
Booked 108 times today
Succotash PRIME is a progressive perspective of classic Southern favorites. James Beard Award winner Edward Lee brings his Korean roots and Southern repertoire to a soulful Southern Steakhouse menu.SUCCOTASH is named after the classic dish that has been a longstanding staple of the Southern table. While many know “Succotash” when they see it, the dish has been interpreted, modified, and passed from generation to generation for centuries. Our “Succotash” is special to us and we invite you to experience the South from our point of view.
A photo of Salt restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(583)
Price: Moderate
• Speakeasy • Arlington
Booked 21 times today
Amongst​ a sea of glass and steel tucked away from the hum of traffic, you’ll find Salt. Escape the confinements of your home and sink into the intoxicating beats while you enjoy bold flavors and timeless craft cocktails in a safe and cool environment. The refreshing and intimate vibe is an inner-city oasis. Get lost in conversation and enjoy the moment.Entrance located below Open Road on Lynn St. Salt Is Now Open Monday-Saturday at 5 pm!Happy Hour | Monday-Saturday | Open – 7 pmHalf Off Bottled Wine | Salt Tuesdays | Open – 10 pmDate Night | Monday | Open – 10 pm

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Rachel
    Los Angeles •17 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Food was so amazingly good, from the roasted cauliflower to the tender and flavorful steak. The service was friendly and helpful, modifying the chef's menu for our vegetarian with shellfish allergy guest. And the overall enviroment was warm, welcoming, and cozy. My only complaint is that the experience is so good that no one wants to leave their tables! Like a great family dinner. Thank you
    More info
    Zaytinya - DCPrice: Expensive• Mediterranean• Penn Quarter
    4.7
  • Robert
    Cleveland / Akron / Canton •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Menu was very well crafted and for the season, food was excellent and the service was outstanding.
    More info
    The DabneyPrice: Very Expensive• American• Shaw
    4.7
  • Allan
    Washington, D.C. Area •22 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Great restaurant in a wonderful waterfront location. Service was timely, food quality was very good and the restaurant design is a feast for the eyes.
    More info
    Mi Vida, District WharfPrice: Expensive• Mexican• Southwest Waterfront
    4.6
  • Michael
    Los Angeles •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Two Michelin stars, so the price is what you would expect of such status. Staff, service, ambiance, and food are all impeccable. Went there with my wife for our anniversary and although there is not a place for a candlelit dinner, the staff did their best to accommodate us with crafted dessert items with simulated candles in the bar/dessert lounge. Thank you to Eric, Kinga, and Andrew for making the night even more spectacular. Will definitely return when I’m back in the states.
    More info
    JôntPrice: Very Expensive• French / Japanese• U Street Corridor
    4.8
  • King
    Washington, D.C. Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Great and amazing experience. I enjoy every dish and the environment was amazing.
    More info
    MoonrakerPrice: Very Expensive• Japanese• Southwest Waterfront
    4.5

Discover best foodies restaurants in Southwest Waterfront

Discover the vibrant dining scene at Washington, D.C.'s Southwest Waterfront, a true paradise for foodies. This bustling area offers a diverse array of culinary experiences tailored to satisfy every palate, with restaurants renowned for their inventive cuisine and exceptional service. From fresh, Latin-leaning dishes to unique culinary creations that change bi-weekly, each establishment ensures a memorable dining experience complemented by stunning waterfront views. The ambiance across these dining spots ranges from mellow and intimate to lively and scenic, making it a perfect destination for both casual outings and special occasions. Emphasizing quality and creativity, each restaurant in the Southwest Waterfront area strives to provide not only great food but also a spectacular overall experience, earning high praise from locals and visitors alike. Whether you're in the mood for an afternoon tea with a thematic twist or a dinner with breathtaking views, the Southwest Waterfront in Washington, D.C. has something exciting to offer every food enthusiast.

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