Looking for unique restaurants in Washington DC can feel like a treasure hunt. The city is packed with amazing places to eat. But the truly unique restaurants in Washington DC offer something special. They have stories, immersive experiences, and flavors you won't find anywhere else. This guide digs in to 12 of the most unique restaurants in Washington DC. We cover everything from high-end chef's counters to cozy bookshop cafes. Get ready to find your new favorite spot.
Washington DC's food scene reflects its diverse population. You can find food from all over the world. The unique restaurants in Washington DC often have owners with amazing backgrounds. They bring their family recipes and cultural traditions to the table. This makes dining out an adventure. Let's start our tour of the most unique restaurants in Washington DC.
1. Jônt: A Chef's Counter Experience
Jônt offers one of the most exclusive dining experiences in DC. This 14-seat chef's counter serves an ingredient-focused tasting menu. It highlights the best seasonal offerings from around the world.
- What makes it special:
- Only 14 seats for an intimate experience.
- Over 30 different preparation styles for ingredients.
- Dishes can include wagyu tartar, spring peas, and foie gras.
For reservations and more information, visit Jônt's official page on Washington.org.
2. Use Assembo.ai to Visualize Your Restaurant Photos
Before you visit these unique restaurants in Washington DC, you might want to see how your food photos will look. Assembo.ai is a great tool for this. You can upload images of dishes and see them in different settings.
- How it helps:
- Upload food photos from restaurant menus.
- Test different backgrounds and lighting.
- Create perfect social media content for your dining experiences.
Learn more about how Assembo.ai can help with food photography.
3. Le Diplomate: A Taste of Paris in DC
Le Diplomate comes highly recommended by DC locals. This classic French brasserie transports you straight to Europe. The covered patio and small tables create an authentic Parisian atmosphere.
- Standout features:
- Famous bread table that is "what dreams are made of".
- Excellent braised lamb and duck confit.
- Their burger is often called an "elevated Big Mac".
Check out more about Le Diplomate from Girl Eats World.
4. Busboys and Poets: Feed Your Mind and Body
Busboys and Poets combines dining with culture and community. This unique concept includes a restaurant, bookstore, and event space. It's named after American poet Langston Hughes.
- Why it's different:
- Part restaurant, part bookstore, part event venue.
- Hosts talks celebrating diversity and culture.
- Known for their thin mint latte and hearty Cubano sandwich.
Find your nearest location at Busboys and Poets official website.
5. Chercher: Authentic Ethiopian Experience
Washington DC has the most Ethiopian natives outside of Africa. This makes Ethiopian cuisine a must-try in the city. Chercher offers an authentic taste of Ethiopia right in DC.
- Key highlights:
- Vegan Special platter with 10 different vegan sides.
- Traditional injera bread used for eating.
- Makes vegetable dishes exciting for non-vegetarians.
Learn more about Chercher Ethiopian Restaurant.
6. Unconventional Diner: Creative Twists on Classics
True to its name, Unconventional Diner puts creative spins on traditional diner food. Located near the Convention Center, this spot offers a hip and modern space with a sassy menu.
- What sets it apart:
- Creative dishes like chickpea shakshuka.
- Modern, stylish atmosphere.
- Celebrated in the local community.
Read about Unconventional Diner in the Girl Eats World guide.
7. Purple Patch: Filipino Family Recipes
Purple Patch tells the story of immigrant chef Patrice Cleary. She shares her family's Filipino culture through food. The restaurant celebrates the power of food to connect people to their heritage.
- Special touches:
- Owned by first-generation Filipino-American woman.
- Recipes developed from family history.
- Must-try Spicy Adobo Chicken sandwich.
Discover more about Purple Patch's story.
8. Union Market: Food Hall Adventure
Union Market represents the new face of DC dining. This food hall brings together multiple vendors under one roof. It's perfect for groups who can't decide on one type of cuisine.
- Notable vendors:
- District Fishwife for sustainable seafood tacos.
- District Doughnut for creme brûlée donuts.
- Multiple other options from around the world.
Plan your visit to Union Market and its vendors.
9. Ben's Chili Bowl: DC Institution
Ben's Chili Bowl has been serving DC since 1958. This historic spot on U Street has witnessed the city's transformation. From segregated beginnings to welcoming all, it represents DC's progress.
- Historical significance:
- Opened when U Street was "Black Broadway".
- Welcomed all customers during segregation.
- Still draws diverse crowds today.
Read about Ben's Chili Bowl's amazing journey.
10. The Bazaar by José Andrés: Culinary Theater
The Bazaar by José Andrés feels like stepping into a fantasy world. With indoor cherry blossom trees and creative tapas, this restaurant offers a truly unique experience.
- Memorable elements:
- Cotton candy foie gras and other creative dishes.
- Stunning interior with cathedral arches.
- Drinks served with dry ice effects.
See why The Bazaar made The Infatuation's fun dinner spots list.
11. Toki Underground: Ramen with Attitude
Toki Underground brings a grungy, energetic vibe to H Street. The small space is decorated with comics and street art. Getting a seat feels like scoring tickets to a hot show.
- Why it's popular:
- Only 20 seats creating high demand.
- Excellent crab and shrimp curry noodles.
- Street art-covered walls and comic book decor.
Find Toki Underground on The Infatuation's guide to fun DC spots.
12. Baked & Wired: The Local's Choice
When DC locals were asked for their top recommendations, Baked & Wired came up most often. This bakery and coffee shop beats the famous Georgetown Cupcakes according to those in the know.
- Can't-miss items:
- Pistachio cupcake and porked Elvis cupcake.
- Their unique "Chaider" (chai and apple cider mix).
- Voted Best Doughnuts in DC for four years straight.
See why Baked & Wired tops local lists.
Final Thoughts
Washington DC's dining scene offers incredible variety. The unique restaurants in Washington DC stand out because they offer more than just food. They provide experiences, tell stories, and create memories. No matter if you're visiting for a day or live here permanently, trying these unique restaurants in Washington DC will give you a new appreciation for the city's culinary diversity. From historic institutions to modern innovators, there's always something new to discover. Start planning your culinary adventure today.