Top Rated Restaurants & Cafes in Washington DC

Among the best fine dining restaurants in the region, Plume Restaurant at the Jefferson Hotel is something that entices the serious foodie. The opulent interiors, accentuated by the fireplace and chandeliers, offer the best of environment for refined dining. The menu, prepared with the best available ingredients, features dishes like the Lobster Gratin, and Amish Farm-raised Rabbit. Besides, Plume has gained several awards and accolades for its extensive list of beverages. You can choose from around 1300 vintage wines from around the world, the oldest dating back to 18th Century. Save some room for dessert too as Plume offers a range of divine delights like Chocolate Raspberry Profiteroles, Lemon Blueberry Sable Breton and many more. Dine at Plume to rediscover the pleasures of haute cuisine.

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.

This traditional-style Japanese restaurant and bar in Dupont Circle offers much more than sushi. It has a broad menu and a decor imported directly from Japan. Gleaming wood sets the tone and blends well with the authentic Japanese screens and tatami flooring. There is a tremendous selection here, ranging from Sushi and Sashimi to dainty grilled skewers of Yakitori. The restaurant also serves up some high-end sake, which is a Japanese rice wine that can be served hot or cold, and Sho-chu, a Japanese alcohol that has a base of rice, soba, barley, and sweet potato. Other drinks include Japanese beer and wine.

At Komi, located a few twists and turns from the hustle and bustle of Dupont Circle, simplicity is key. The staff, the space, the cuisine and the wines are all elegant, but none are flashy in the least. Komi is most famous for its fixed-price tasting menus with optional sommelier-managed wine pairings, each one a new five-course symphony of tasty wonder. Whichever route you choose, you'll surely be faced with some luscious salads, top-notch pastas and some of the finest meats and fishes you'll ever lay eyes on.

Chances are you will get duped by the name, for Duke's Grocery is an East London inspired gastropub! This bi-level space has a laid-back vibe to it and you can enjoy their happy hours with craft beers and seasonal cocktails. Their ever changing menu consists of tasty sandwiches, charcuterie, shared plates, salads and soups. Their market-driven fare will definitely keep you guessing what's on for the day. It is a nice spot to hangout with your friends.

The Pig is a must visit for pork lovers in Washington DC. This restaurant in Logan Circle advocates a nose-to-tail culinary philosophy and specializes in creative renditions of pork. It sources its meat from La Plata MD, its local farm, and features specialties with global influences like barbecue pigtails, bratwurst, Cuban porchetta and cider braised cheek. Their sausage board and pig platters are great when paired with wine, sake or champagne from their beverage list. Other contemporary dishes include salad and seafood. Their pork blood chocolate pudding deserves a special mention. This place is ideal for hosting private parties and events.