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Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in Penn Quarter

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183 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Zaytinya - DC restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(19283)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • Penn Quarter
Booked 244 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 Smith – Penn Quarter, Washington, D.C restaurant
4.5
Awesome(3744)
Price: Expensive
• American • Penn Quarter
Booked 167 times today
The Smith in Penn Quarter is a neighborhood gem because of its stellar food and service. Patrons rave about the unique decor, delicious food, and friendly service. It's a popular spot for date nights, drinks on the town, and working lunches. Plus, their signature cocktails are a hit! One reviewer even called it a 'gem in DC'.
A photo of Succotash PRIME restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(3849)
Price: Moderate
• American • Penn Quarter
Booked 104 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 Founding Farmers & Distillers DC: Chinatown restaurant
4.4
Awesome(10262)
Price: Moderate
• American • Mount Vernon Square
Booked 145 times today
Walking distance to many of DC’s historic landmarks, Founding Farmers & Distillers offers a diverse menu including dishes inspired by nearby Chinatown and cocktails featuring our in-house distillery, Founding Spirits. Open 365 days a year, our team is passionate about crafting dishes & drinks from scratch with high-quality ingredients from farmers and suppliers we know and trust. Join us for breakfast, lunch, dinner, weekday happy hour, decadent weekend Farmers Market Buffet Brunch, or grab a cup of house-roasted coffee and breakfast treat from our First Bake Cafe. Majority owned by American family farmers, including the more than 50,000 farmers of the North Dakota Farmers Union, our restaurant is guided by a very simple principal: we see and share everything Through The Eyes Of The Farmer.™ We actively care about our guests, our communities, the planet, and the next generation. This all comes together in our everyday
A photo of Clyde's of Gallery Place restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(7573)
Price: Moderate
• American • Downtown
Booked 75 times today
Clyde's of Gallery Place, located in Washington, DC's vibrant Penn Quarter neighborhood adjacent to the Capital One Arena, is a bustling restaurant known for its eclectic American menu and lively atmosphere. The menu offers a diverse selection, from fresh seafood and juicy burgers to seasonal salads and hearty entrees. With its prime location, friendly service, and energetic vibe, Clyde's of Gallery Place is a favorite spot for both casual dining and pre-event gatherings. Across the street from the Smithsonian American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery. Indoor and bar seating available with lunch, dinner, brunch, late night, and raw bar service.
A photo of China Chilcano restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(3676)
Price: Expensive
• Peruvian • Penn Quarter
Booked 56 times today
China Chilcano celebrates the rich culinary diversity of Peru and brings an exciting exploration of this multicultural cuisine to our Nation’s Capital. The restaurant, led by award-winning chef José Andrés, honors Peru’s deeply rooted and diverse heritage, including its native Criollo, Chinese Chifa and Japanese Nikkei cuisines; its name an homage to Peru’s renowned fish stew and its popular national drink, the Chilcano.
A photo of Carmine's - Washington DC restaurant
4.5
Awesome(6510)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Penn Quarter
Booked 105 times today
Carmine's is a family style restaurant offering exceptional value to its guests through the many dishes of Southern Italian cuisine. Restaurateur Artie Cutler crafted Carmine's with a singular vision; bringing his guests abundant portions and making any meal feel like an Italian American wedding feast. Platters of made to order pasta, decadent seafood or meat entrees, and of course homemade desserts are all staples at Carmine's, meant for sharing among friends and family. When great food and wine are supported by friendly and knowledgeable service, the results are magic - we want every day to feel like a Sunday afternoon at Grandma's! We are open for Indoor & Outdoor Dining, Pick-up, Delivery, Catering and Private Parties. Your safety is our priority. DC no longer requires proof of vaccination to dine indoors. Indoor & Outdoor dining are available.
A photo of Modena restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1178)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Downtown
Booked 7 times today
Modena presents Italian-inspired cuisine that takes heavy cues from seasonal and regionally sourced ingredients. Modena balances classic cuisine with a modern approach, all enhanced by Chef Joshua Hunt's passionate and creative touch.
A photo of Ella's Wood Fired Kitchen restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1039)
Price: Moderate
• Pizzeria • Penn Quarter
Booked 7 times today
The wood-fired pizza oven at the heart of the restaurant is what makes our handcrafted pizzas come alive with flavor, bringing inspiration to the rest of our menu. Our philosophy is to use the freshest, best quality ingredients, prepare it well and to serve it with joy. We invite you to share in the experience of what makes Ella's so special. Enjoy!
A photo of Hard Rock Cafe - Washington, DC restaurant
3.9
Excellent(1144)
Price: Moderate
• American • Downtown
Booked 15 times today
Hard Rock Cafe is a global phenomenon with 185 cafes that are visited by nearly 80 million guests each year. The first Hard Rock Cafe opened on June 14, 1971, in London, England, and from there the brand has expanded to major cities and exotic locations around the world.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Sherry
    Indiana •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Great place for good, affordable food. Atmosphere is nice as they nod to the local neighborhood: Chinatown and a lot of paintings as the Portrait Gallery is across the street. I did find the buffalo chicken wings to be very small in size so maybe not worth the price, but our entrees were good and good size portions.
    More info
    Clyde's of Gallery PlacePrice: Moderate• American• Downtown
    4.6
  • Katie
    Washington, D.C. Area •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    This is truly a one of a kind dining experience in DC. Some of the best service I’ve had. Our server was attentive, but didn’t hover and was so kind. We were able to get great recommendations on both drinks and food options. The beet salad, mushrooms, scallops, and shrimp were beyond delicious and I would highly recommend. For cocktail lovers the 3PM in Istanbul was excellent. We will certainly be going back to enjoy the atmosphere and to eat more of the tapas we were just too full to eat this time around.
    More info
    Zaytinya - DCPrice: Expensive• Mediterranean• Penn Quarter
    4.7
  • Eileen
    Greater Boston •16 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    The Smith is consistently outstanding. We had an awesome meal. The place was packed but our server was attentive. I had the soba noodles and added salmon. It was awesome. The others in my party had the vodka penne and gnocchi and they said it was awesome.
    More info
    The Smith – Penn Quarter, Washington, D.CPrice: Expensive• American• Penn Quarter
    4.5
  • Renee
    Chicago / Illinois •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We were in town to see A Christmas Carol and made reservations well in advance. The pork ribs were fantastic and my husband loved his shrimp and grits!
    More info
    Succotash PRIMEPrice: Moderate• American• Penn Quarter
    4.6
  • Maria
    New York City •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    This restaurant has great ambiance, food, drinks, and staff. While the farm to table aspect is impressive itself, the fact that they make their own spirits is an added bonus. I had the G&T Fizz, recommended by our waiter Lucas, and it was excellent. Lucas was attentive and knowledgeable making the overall experience 10 out of 10.
    More info
    Founding Farmers & Distillers DC: ChinatownPrice: Moderate• American• Mount Vernon Square
    4.4

Discover best neighborhood gem restaurants in Penn Quarter

Discover the charm of Penn Quarter, Washington, D.C., where the dining scene flourishes with neighborhood gems that locals and visitors alike treasure. These restaurants stand out for their exceptional food, unique ambiance, and commendable service, making each a top choice for a special dining experience. Whether you're in the mood for the cozy, modern vibes of a chic eatery or the authentic atmosphere of a speakeasy-style bar, Penn Quarter offers a variety of settings that cater to any taste and occasion. Each establishment showcases a dedication to quality, with inventive menus and expertly crafted drinks that highlight their unique culinary perspectives. Ideal for everything from casual lunches to celebratory dinners, these neighborhood gems in Penn Quarter ensure a memorable dining experience with every visit. Dive into the heart of D.C.’s vibrant culinary culture in this lively district, where every meal is served with a touch of local flair and sophistication.

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