Hundreds of restaurants across Washington, DC open their doors to journalists and foodies like you and me during Summer Restaurant Week, and we’re stunned and surprised by new cuisines and unique delivery methods. We’d better get our act together. Without further ado, here are a few eateries in the Washington metropolitan area that are worth visiting during DC Restaurant Week.
The Mezzes Amazed Me
In Washington, DC, there are several excellent Mediterranean restaurants, but none compare to Zaytinya. At 701 9th St NW, Washington, District of Columbia, USA, Chef José Andrés and his team have built and refined a distinct and distinctive style inspired by Greek, Turkish, and Lebanese cuisines.
The mezzes here are to die for! Huge portions on tiny plates! The venue is ideal for group lunches and dinners because you are allowed to share. The softness of the lamb will transport you to heaven if you sample the HĂĽnkar Beendi!
The Chef’s Choice tasting menu, on the other hand, is the best way to acquire a feel for the place. You’ll be able to sample ten different dishes and determine which one is best for you.
The Halloumi cheese plate with figs and almonds is a must-try, and don’t forget to pair it with a glass of house-made Mediterranean wine! The main hall is modern and stylish, and it is always packed. Make a reservation ahead of time because it’s doubtful that you’ll be seated just outside the entryway.
Tosca’s Flavor Is Unique
This cuisine comes from Northern Italy, where the climate is ideal for rice farming (riso literally means “rice”). The major component is semi-rounded short-grain rice, which is cooked with meat, fish, or vegetable broth. A wonderful option is risotto with parmesan cheese and white wine. Saffron is used to add taste and color to the dish.
The best coffee in the world is claimed to be made by Italians. Why not stop by Tosca in Downtown for a cup of coffee? You’ll undoubtedly remain for dinner! Tosca is a light and airy place with soft pastel colors that is perfect for a romantic dinner or a casual conversation.
The restaurant is recognized for its vast wine list and fresh in-house made pasta. Fiore di Zucca and Capesante, then Pappardelle (rabbit ragu) or a wonderful Risotto, and that’s just the beginning! The wild Alaskan salmon, as well as the veal and pork chops, are wonderful.
Tosca, like any great restaurant these days, delivers dishes created using locally grown and produced ingredients, ensuring that everything is delicious and fresh! The restaurant is regarded as one of the greatest in Washington, DC, and it is a must-see!
For the Central, a Few Cents
The history of French onion soup may be traced all the way back to the Roman era. The soup is made with meat stock and onions. It’s served with croutons and cheese on top of a large piece of bread.
It’s time to try something authentically French at this point. There’s a restaurant on Pennsylvania Avenue that will make your stomach turn from the moment you walk in. The Central’s aromas are intoxicating.
Chef Michel Richard runs a restaurant that is appropriate for both a fast lunch and a big family meal. Try the French onion soup, scallops with sweet corn and radishes sautéed in butter, or the Goat Cheese Caesar Salad!
The appetizers are fantastic, and you are welcome to serve them to your friends. Everything is delicious and fresh from the farm! You should try the organic blueberry soda on the menu! Vegans will find a whole side menu, and the Central’s wine list is excellent.
Sure, the prices are high, but the food is worth trying, especially during Summer Restaurant Week, when the menu is heavily discounted.
Georgetown’s Crown Jewel
The Crown Jewel Octopus from Georgetown is a delectable entrée that comes in a variety of Mediterranean recipes and has a smooth, buttery flavor that melts in your lips. Octopus can be eaten in a variety of ways, including grilled octopus, spaghetti, stews, and salads.
A comprehensive culinary tour of Washington would be incomplete without a trip at 1789 on 36th Street. This is a classic American restaurant with a lot of history and treasures from bygone ages.
The restaurant has a 5-star rating thanks to dishes like Scandinavian Halibut and Charred Spanish Octopus. Made with jumbo lump crab meat and topped with artisanal mayonnaise, Old Bay flavor, Dijon mustard, parsley, and saltine crackers, the crab cakes are pretty tasty.
This restaurant provides delectable eggnog crème brulee that will make you fall in love at first bite. Although the prices are a tad on the expensive side, you get what you pay for: excellent service and some of Georgetown’s greatest cuisine.
Ladies and gentlemen, it’s that time of year again! Put on your finest gowns and suits and join us to experience the best meals in Washington, DC restaurants as prices decrease and choices grow.
We’ve included a few good dining alternatives, but Washington, DC has many more excellent eateries that you should visit! Explore the numerous cuisines and get a taste of gourmet eating in the Capital City! It’s a case of now or never!