Top Rated Restaurants & Cafes in Washington DC

Iron Gate has a history dating back to 1923 and has got a new lease of life due to the Neighborhood Restaurant Group. Led by executive chef Anthony Chittum, it is set in the historic carriageway while the lovely courtyard with grapevines and wisteria provide an alluring backdrop for alfresco dining. Their menu is influenced by Greek and Italian styles of cooking. Savor their dishes like Oak Roasted Foraged Mushrooms, Farm Goat Ribs and Iron Gate Mixed Grill. This romantic restaurant also has a fine list of wines and cocktails. It is a great spot for a date or special occasions.

The Tabard Inn Restaurant, which is unsurprisingly located inside the historical Tabard Inn, offers an ever changing seasonal menu that will make foodies feel like they've found paradise. The menu changes daily based on the local ingredients that the chefs get their hands on, which means one day might feature grilled octopus with pickled fennel, and another may feature marscapone-stuffed dates. Pair these sorts of incredible dishes with a stellar wine list and a gorgeous historical dining room and you will have the charming Tabard Inn Restaurant.

Situated adjacent to the Mason and Rook Hotel, Radiator is a friendly neighborhood restaurant and bar that pays homage to the rich automotive history of 14th street. The dining area features vintage parts of automobiles and checkerboard floors, exuding a nostalgic vibe. The menu includes a wide range of International cocktail-friendly small plates meant for sharing and innovative drinks and an eclectic selection of specialty cocktails and spirits.

Sweetgreen is a haven for salad fanatics. Known for their healthy delectable food and excellent core values, Sweetgreen sources local and organic ingredients from farmers to create simple and pure authentic flavors. You have the option of either creating your own salad, or choosing from one of their many specialty bowls. The Strawberries + Local Feta is a definite favorite among customers, with its fat juicy strawberries and fresh arugula leaves, as well as the Blueberry + Basil Fresca, which mixes savory and sweet with plump blueberries and a touch of ginger. This particular location at Logan Circle boasts a charming patio area and a sleek wooden interior that serves as the perfect backdrop for a quaint lunch with friends.

Commissary is a far cry from its namesake, which is often associated with a prison general store. Logan Circle's version of Commissary is a relaxed coffeehouse-bar, restaurant, and local hang out all wrapped up in one. The inexpensive menu is a draw among younger patrons, and happy hour swoons with the young professional crowd for its great drink specials. It's typically American menu boasts larger-than-life portions and is a great bang for the buck. - Shamyra N. Edmonds

Tucked away in a culinary downtown area of DC, Le Desales is a charming restaurant that serves some delicious French food with a twist. A great place to celebrate a party, private event, occasion, dates or formal business meet. This beautiful restaurant has an imaginative menu that ranges from sweetbreads to Duck dishes to French cut steaks and a variety of appetizers. The rustic interiors and warm lighting provides a perfect dining ambiance. Their Duck Egg And Paprika Potatoes, Bavette Dry Aged Beef and Petite Suisse are worth having.