Discover the Top 10 Best Restaurants in DC for an Unforgettable Dining Experience in 2015

Discover the top restaurants in Washington DC for 2015! From gourmet cuisine to casual eats, find the best dining spots in the nation's capital.

Washington D.C. is a city known for its diverse culture and delectable culinary scene. With so many restaurants to choose from, it can be difficult to decide where to dine in the nation's capital. In 2015, several restaurants stood out among the rest, offering exceptional cuisine, impeccable service, and a unique dining experience.

The first restaurant on our list is Pineapple and Pearls, which opened in April of 2016. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a multi-course tasting menu that changes frequently based on seasonal ingredients. The menu features dishes such as foie gras custard with strawberry gelée and brioche, and smoked steelhead trout with cucumber and horseradish. The restaurant also offers an extensive wine pairing menu, making for a truly decadent dining experience.

If you're looking for a restaurant that offers a taste of the Mediterranean, look no further than Zaytinya. This sleek and modern restaurant, owned by celebrity chef José Andrés, offers a menu inspired by the flavors of Greece, Turkey, and Lebanon. The mezze-style menu includes dishes such as baba ghanoush, lamb keftedes, and Turkish-style pizza. The restaurant also offers an extensive selection of Greek wines and cocktails.

For a taste of classic American cuisine, head to The Capital Grille. This upscale steakhouse offers perfectly cooked steaks, fresh seafood, and an impressive wine list. The restaurant's signature dish is the dry-aged porterhouse steak, served with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or crispy onion rings. The service at The Capital Grille is top-notch, making for a truly memorable dining experience.

If you're in the mood for something spicy, head to Rasika. This upscale Indian restaurant offers a menu filled with bold and flavorful dishes. The restaurant's signature dish is the crispy spinach, which is lightly fried and tossed with chaat masala. Other standout dishes include the tandoori salmon and the chicken tikka masala. The restaurant also offers an impressive wine list, with selections from around the world.

If you're looking for a restaurant with a view, head to the Top of the Gate. Located on the rooftop of the Watergate Hotel, this bar and restaurant offers stunning views of the city and the Potomac River. The menu features classic American dishes with a modern twist, such as crab cakes and truffle fries. The cocktail menu is equally impressive, with creative concoctions such as the Smokey Negroni and the Watergate Spritz.

If you're in the mood for sushi, head to Sushi Taro. This traditional Japanese restaurant offers a menu filled with fresh and expertly prepared sushi and sashimi. The restaurant's signature dish is the omakase, which allows the chef to choose the freshest and most flavorful fish of the day. The restaurant also offers an extensive sake menu, making for a truly authentic dining experience.

For a taste of the Mediterranean, head to Iron Gate. This rustic-chic restaurant offers a menu filled with Italian and Greek-inspired dishes. The menu features dishes such as grilled octopus with romesco sauce and lamb chops with tzatziki. The restaurant also boasts an impressive wine list, with selections from Italy and Greece.

If you're looking for a restaurant that offers a unique dining experience, head to minibar by José Andrés. This avant-garde restaurant offers a multi-course tasting menu that features innovative dishes such as liquid olives and cotton candy foie gras. The restaurant only seats six guests at a time, making for an intimate and unforgettable dining experience.

If you're in the mood for French cuisine, head to Le Diplomate. This bustling brasserie offers a menu filled with classic French dishes such as escargots and coq au vin. The restaurant also boasts an impressive wine list, with selections from France and around the world. The atmosphere at Le Diplomate is lively and festive, making for a fun and memorable dining experience.

Finally, if you're looking for a restaurant with a modern and trendy vibe, head to Rose's Luxury. This hip restaurant offers a menu filled with creative and flavorful dishes, such as pork sausage with lychee salad and crispy fried chicken. The restaurant also offers an impressive cocktail menu, with unique concoctions such as the Pissed Off Grandma. The service at Rose's Luxury is friendly and casual, making for a laid-back and enjoyable dining experience.

Introduction

Washington DC is a city that is known for its political powerhouses and historical landmarks. However, it has also become a foodie’s paradise. With over 2,000 restaurants in the city, it can be overwhelming to choose which one to try. In this article, we have compiled a list of the best restaurants in DC for 2015.

1. Rose’s Luxury

Rose’s Luxury is a restaurant that has been making waves in DC since it opened in 2013. The restaurant has a no-reservation policy, which means that there is always a long line outside. However, the wait is worth it. The restaurant offers an eclectic menu that changes daily. Some of the standout dishes include the pork sausage, lychee salad, and the famous “crack pie.”

2. Minibar by José Andrés

Minibar by José Andrés is a restaurant that offers a unique dining experience. The restaurant only seats six people at a time, and the diners are seated at a counter facing the kitchen. The menu is a 30-course tasting menu that changes frequently. The food is innovative and playful, with dishes like “liquid olives” and “cotton candy foie gras.

3. Fiola Mare

Fiola Mare is a seafood-focused restaurant that offers stunning views of the Potomac River. The restaurant is helmed by Michelin-starred chef Fabio Trabocchi. The menu features fresh seafood, homemade pastas, and seasonal vegetables. Some of the standout dishes include the lobster ravioli and the grilled octopus.

4. Bad Saint

Bad Saint is a Filipino restaurant that has quickly become one of the hottest restaurants in DC. The restaurant offers a small, but well-curated menu that is packed with flavor. Some of the standout dishes include the adobo, kinilaw, and the pork belly.

5. Komi

Komi is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant that offers a tasting menu. The menu changes frequently based on seasonal ingredients. The food is simple, but packed with flavor. Some of the standout dishes include the grilled octopus, the lamb chops, and the homemade pasta.

6. Rasika

Rasika is a modern Indian restaurant that offers traditional dishes with a modern twist. The restaurant is helmed by chef Vikram Sunderam, who has won multiple James Beard awards. Some of the standout dishes include the palak chaat, the black cod, and the chicken tikka masala.

7. Little Serow

Little Serow is a Thai restaurant that offers a set menu. The menu changes frequently, but always includes spicy and flavorful dishes. Some of the standout dishes include the pork ribs, the catfish salad, and the coconut rice.

8. The Dabney

The Dabney is a restaurant that focuses on Mid-Atlantic cuisine. The menu features locally sourced ingredients and changes frequently. Some of the standout dishes include the smoked trout, the roasted chicken, and the cornbread.

9. Sushi Taro

Sushi Taro is a Japanese restaurant that offers traditional sushi and sashimi. The restaurant has been around for over 30 years and has a loyal following. Some of the standout dishes include the toro sashimi, the uni, and the omakase.

10. Masseria

Masseria is an Italian restaurant that offers a tasting menu. The menu changes frequently and features homemade pastas and seasonal ingredients. Some of the standout dishes include the grilled octopus, the ricotta gnocchi, and the lamb chops.

Conclusion

Washington DC has become a foodie’s paradise, with restaurants offering a wide range of cuisines and dining experiences. From the innovative dishes at Minibar by José Andrés to the traditional Indian dishes at Rasika, there is something for everyone. These ten restaurants are some of the best in DC and are definitely worth a visit.

The District's Best Seafood Cuisine: Where to Satisfy Your Cravings for Fresh Catches in 2015Washington, DC boasts some of the freshest seafood cuisine in the country, thanks to its proximity to the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. If you're looking for a delectable seafood feast, look no further than these top restaurants.

1. Kinship

Located in the heart of Washington, DC, Kinship is a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers an unforgettable culinary experience. The restaurant's seafood offerings are exceptional, with dishes like the butter-poached lobster and the grilled octopus being particularly noteworthy.

2. Fiola Mare

Fiola Mare is a waterfront restaurant located in Georgetown that has been recognized as one of the best seafood restaurants in the city. Their crudo, a raw fish dish served with citrus, olive oil, and sea salt, is a must-try, as is their grilled branzino, served with roasted fennel and lemon.

3. The Salt Line

For a casual seafood experience, head to The Salt Line, located in the Navy Yard neighborhood. The restaurant specializes in New England-style seafood, with dishes like clam chowder and lobster rolls being particularly popular. A Gastronomical Journey: Exploring the Best International Restaurants in DC This YearWashington, DC is a melting pot of cultures, and its restaurant scene reflects this diversity. From Indian to Ethiopian cuisine, there are plenty of international options for foodies to explore.

1. Rasika

Rasika is a Michelin-starred Indian restaurant that has become a staple in the DC food scene. Their tandoori lamb chops and palak chaat, a crispy spinach dish, are must-tries.

2. Ethiopic

For those seeking Ethiopian cuisine, Ethiopic in the H Street Corridor is a top choice. Their vegetarian platter is a generous spread of lentils, cabbage, and other veggies served with injera, a spongy bread that serves as the utensil for the meal.

3. Ambar

Ambar in Capitol Hill offers Balkan cuisine, with dishes like cevapi, grilled sausages served with ajvar, a red pepper spread, and kajmak, a creamy cheese. They also have an extensive selection of rakia, a fruit brandy popular in the Balkans.Fine Dining on a Budget: DC's Most Affordable Michelin-Starred RestaurantsFine dining doesn't have to break the bank in Washington, DC. These Michelin-starred restaurants offer exceptional cuisine at a more affordable price point.

1. Bresca

Bresca, located in the bustling 14th Street corridor, is a contemporary French restaurant that has earned a Michelin star. Their three-course menu, priced at $65 per person, offers diners the chance to sample their standout dishes like the roasted pork loin with black garlic and their honeycomb ice cream with bee pollen.

2. Maydan

Maydan, located in the Shaw neighborhood, is a Middle Eastern restaurant that has been recognized with a Michelin star. Their outdoor grill is a sight to behold, and their lamb kebab and whole roasted fish are worth the visit alone.

3. Sushi Taro

Sushi Taro, in the Dupont Circle neighborhood, offers traditional Japanese cuisine and has been awarded a Michelin star. Their omakase, a chef's choice tasting menu, starts at $80 per person and is a great way to sample their exceptional sushi and sashimi.From Farm to Table: The Top DC Restaurants Celebrating Local Produce in 2015Washington, DC's restaurant scene has embraced the farm-to-table movement with open arms. These restaurants prioritize locally sourced ingredients in their dishes, resulting in fresh and flavorful cuisine.

1. Founding Farmers

Founding Farmers, with locations in Foggy Bottom and Tysons, is a restaurant that sources its ingredients from family farms across the country. Their chicken and waffles, made with cage-free chicken and served with maple syrup, is a standout dish.

2. Blue Duck Tavern

Blue Duck Tavern, located in the West End, has a commitment to using local, seasonal ingredients in their dishes. Their wood oven-roasted meats and vegetables are particularly noteworthy, as is their homemade bread and butter.

3. Centrolina

Centrolina, located in CityCenterDC, is a market and restaurant that showcases the best of Italian cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. Their housemade pastas and pizzas are a must-try, as is their selection of Italian wines.Sip and Savor: DC's Best Wine Bars for the Discerning PalateIf you're looking for a place to unwind with a glass of fine wine, Washington, DC has plenty of options. These wine bars offer an extensive selection of vintages and a cozy atmosphere to enjoy them in.

1. Cork Wine Bar

Cork Wine Bar, located in the Logan Circle neighborhood, offers a wide selection of wines by the glass and bottle. Their cheese and charcuterie boards are a perfect accompaniment to your vino of choice.

2. Proof

Proof, located in Chinatown, has been recognized as one of the best wine bars in the city. Their extensive wine list includes rare and hard-to-find vintages, and their small plates menu is a great way to sample their cuisine.

3. Flight Wine Bar

For a more casual wine bar experience, head to Flight Wine Bar in Chinatown. They offer flights of wine, allowing you to sample different varietals, as well as a selection of craft beers and cocktails.A Vegetarian's Delight: DC's Top Meatless Restaurants for 2015Vegetarians and vegans have plenty of options in Washington, DC, with several restaurants offering meatless cuisine that is both delicious and satisfying.

1. Fancy Radish

Fancy Radish, located in the H Street Corridor, offers a creative and flavorful take on vegetarian cuisine. Their rutabaga fondue and spicy dan dan noodles are particularly noteworthy.

2. Shouk

Shouk, located in the Mount Vernon Triangle neighborhood, specializes in plant-based Mediterranean cuisine. Their pita sandwiches and bowls are packed with flavor and are perfect for a quick lunch.

3. NuVegan Café

NuVegan Café, with locations in Shaw and College Park, offers vegan comfort food that is both delicious and affordable. Their mac and cheese, made with cashew cheese sauce, is a standout dish.Brunching in Style: The Best DC Restaurants for Weekend Brunches This YearWeekend brunch is a beloved tradition in Washington, DC, and there are plenty of restaurants that offer an exceptional brunch experience. These restaurants serve up everything from classic breakfast dishes to innovative brunch creations.

1. Le Diplomate

Le Diplomate, located in Logan Circle, is a French brasserie that has become a staple for weekend brunch. Their croque madame, a ham and cheese sandwich topped with a fried egg, is a must-try.

2. Busboys and Poets

Busboys and Poets, with several locations throughout the city, offers a socially conscious brunch experience. Their vegan breakfast burrito and sweet potato pancakes are crowd favorites.

3. The Dabney

For a more upscale brunch experience, head to The Dabney in Shaw. Their brunch menu includes dishes like grilled oysters and pork belly hash, and their cocktail program is top-notch.Sweet Tooth Satisfaction: Discovering DC's Best Dessert Places in 2015If you have a sweet tooth, Washington, DC has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. These restaurants and bakeries offer everything from classic desserts to innovative creations.

1. Milk Bar

Milk Bar, with locations in Logan Circle and CityCenterDC, is a dessert shop that specializes in creative and playful treats. Their cereal milk soft serve and crack pie are both must-tries.

2. Buttercream Bakeshop

Buttercream Bakeshop, located in Shaw, offers classic baked goods with a modern twist. Their cupcakes, cakes, and cookies are all made with high-quality ingredients and are beautifully decorated.

3. Ted's Bulletin

Ted's Bulletin, with several locations throughout the city, is a diner-style restaurant that is known for their homemade pop tarts. Their seasonal flavors, like pumpkin and apple, are always a hit.Dining with a View: DC's Best Rooftop Restaurants for Unforgettable MealsWashington, DC's skyline is impressive, and there are several rooftop restaurants that offer stunning views of the city. These restaurants also happen to serve up exceptional cuisine.

1. Top of the Gate

Top of the Gate, located on the rooftop of the Watergate Hotel, offers unparalleled views of the Potomac River and the city skyline. Their cocktails and small plates menu are perfect for a night out.

2. Takoda

Takoda, located in Shaw, has a rooftop beer garden that is perfect for casual dining with a view. Their brunch menu and beer selection are both noteworthy.

3. The Rooftop at Rosewood

The Rooftop at Rosewood, located in Georgetown, offers sweeping views of the C&O Canal and the Potomac River. Their seafood-focused menu and craft cocktails are a great way to enjoy the view. Diverse Flavors of DC: The Top Restaurants for Sampling Ethnic Cuisine in 2015Washington, DC's diverse population has resulted in a restaurant scene that offers cuisine from all over the world. These restaurants offer the chance to sample authentic ethnic cuisine without leaving the city.

1. Little Serow

Little Serow, located in Dupont Circle, offers Northern Thai cuisine that is both spicy and flavorful. Their family-style tasting menu changes regularly and includes dishes like pork belly and squid salad.

2. Taqueria Habanero

Taqueria Habanero, located in Columbia Heights, offers authentic Mexican cuisine that is both delicious and affordable. Their tacos al pastor and chiles rellenos are particularly noteworthy.

3. Saba

Saba, located in the Cleveland Park neighborhood, offers Israeli cuisine with a modern twist. Their hummus and falafel are made from scratch and are some of the best in the city.

Best Restaurants in DC 2015

Overview

Washington, DC is a culinary destination that offers a diverse range of restaurants serving different cuisines, from classic American to international flavors. The city's food scene has grown significantly over the years, and 2015 was no exception. With so many options to choose from, we've compiled a list of the best restaurants in DC for you to consider.

The Pros and Cons

When it comes to dining out in DC, there are both pros and cons. Here are some of the key points to consider:

Pros

Wide range of restaurants serving different cuisines
Many restaurants use locally sourced ingredients
Most restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options
Great restaurant scene for brunch and happy hour
Many restaurants have outdoor seating options

Cons

Some restaurants can be expensive
Reservations can be hard to come by at popular spots
Crowded restaurants can make for a noisy dining experience
Service can be hit or miss at some restaurants
Parking can be difficult in certain neighborhoods

Table Comparison

Here is a comparison of the top five restaurants in DC for 2015 based on their overall ratings, price range, and cuisine:

Restaurant	Rating	Price Range	Cuisine
Fiola	4.5/5	$$$	Italian
The Red Hen	4.5/5	$$	American
Rose's Luxury	4.5/5	$$	American
Le Diplomate	4/5	$$	French
Maketto	4/5	$$	Taiwanese/Cambodian

Overall, these restaurants offer a wide range of cuisines and price points, but they all have one thing in common: delicious food that will leave you satisfied.

The Best Restaurants in DC 2015

As the year draws to a close, it's time to reflect on some of the best restaurants that graced the DC food scene in 2015. From innovative new concepts to old favorites, the city has seen a wealth of culinary talent this year. Whether you're a local or just visiting, these restaurants are worth checking out.

1. Rose's Luxury

One of the most talked-about new restaurants of the year, Rose's Luxury is a must-visit for any food lover. Chef Aaron Silverman's inventive American cuisine is served in a casual, welcoming atmosphere that has earned the restaurant a devoted following. Be sure to try the famous pork and lychee salad, which has been touted as one of the best dishes in the city.

2. Bad Saint

Another newcomer that has quickly become a favorite among DC diners, Bad Saint serves up Filipino-inspired cuisine in a cozy, intimate setting. The menu changes frequently, but the crispy pata (deep-fried pork leg) and adobo (braised chicken or pork in vinegar and soy sauce) are always popular choices.

3. Tail Up Goat

This Mediterranean-inspired restaurant opened its doors earlier this year and has been wowing diners ever since. The menu features house-made breads, pastas, and charcuterie, as well as a variety of small plates meant for sharing. Don't miss the lamb ribs with honey and fennel.

4. Fiola Mare

If seafood is your thing, Fiola Mare is the place to be. This elegant Italian restaurant overlooks the Potomac River and serves up fresh, expertly prepared seafood dishes. The crudo (raw fish) selection is particularly impressive, but everything on the menu is worth trying.

5. Rasika

Rasika has long been a favorite among DC foodies, and for good reason. The modern Indian cuisine served here is some of the best in the city. The palak chaat (crispy spinach with sweet yogurt and tamarind) is a standout dish that you won't want to miss.

6. Pineapple and Pearls

If you're looking for a truly special dining experience, Pineapple and Pearls is the place to be. This new restaurant from the team behind the acclaimed Rose's Luxury offers a 10-course tasting menu that changes frequently. Expect to be wowed by inventive dishes like foie gras mousse with pistachio and cherry.

7. Little Serow

This Thai restaurant may not look like much from the outside, but inside you'll find some of the best food in the city. The menu changes weekly and features spicy, flavorful dishes that are meant to be shared. Be sure to try the Northern-style pork curry and the spicy pork salad.

8. The Dabney

This rustic American restaurant takes its inspiration from the mid-Atlantic region, using locally sourced ingredients to create dishes like wood-grilled rockfish and smoked chicken with cornbread. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make it a great spot for a relaxed night out.

9. Convivial

Chef Cedric Maupillier's French-inspired bistro is a lively spot that serves up delicious, comforting food. The steak frites and roast chicken are perennial favorites, but be sure to save room for the profiteroles.

10. Maketto

This hybrid cafe-clothing store-restaurant concept has been a hit since it opened earlier this year. The menu features Taiwanese and Cambodian-inspired dishes like pork belly buns and spicy chicken wings, while the clothing store offers a carefully curated selection of stylish clothing and accessories.

These are just some of the many great restaurants that DC has to offer. Whether you're looking for something new and innovative or a classic favorite, the city's food scene has something for everyone. So why not make your 2016 resolution to explore more of what DC has to offer?

Thank you for reading, and happy dining!