Washington DC, known for its rich history and political significance, is also home to a vibrant culinary scene featuring some of the most luxurious dining experiences in the country. From Michelin-starred restaurants offering innovative tasting menus to elegant establishments with historic charm, the nation’s capital boasts a variety of high-end options that cater to discerning palates. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or seeking an unforgettable meal, these 11 most expensive restaurants in Washington DC promise exceptional cuisine, impeccable service, and an atmosphere of sophistication.
The Inn at Little Washington
Nestled just outside Washington DC, The Inn at Little Washington is a culinary gem with three Michelin stars. This luxurious restaurant, led by Chef Patrick O’Connell, offers a lavish tasting menu that changes with the seasons. Diners can expect to pay around $265 per person for the standard tasting menu, with wine pairings adding $185. The elegant ambiance and impeccable service make it a destination for special occasions and unforgettable dining experiences.
Fiola Mare
Fiola Mare, located on the Georgetown waterfront, is renowned for its stunning views of the Potomac River and sophisticated Italian coastal cuisine. The restaurant’s elegant dining room complements a menu that features fresh, high-quality seafood and artisanal pasta. Expect to spend around $150 per person for a three-course meal, with additional costs for premium wine selections. Signature dishes like the lobster ravioli exemplify the restaurant’s dedication to exquisite ingredients and refined cooking techniques.
The Dabney
The Dabney, a Michelin-starred establishment, showcases the rich culinary traditions of the Mid-Atlantic region. Located in a historic brick building in Shaw, the restaurant features a wood-fired hearth that imparts a unique flavor to its dishes. A meal at The Dabney typically costs around $125 per person for a tasting menu, with an additional $65 for wine pairings. The focus on local ingredients and heritage recipes creates a dining experience that is both nostalgic and innovative.
Rose’s Luxury
Rose’s Luxury offers an eclectic dining experience with a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Known for its inventive dishes and friendly service, this Michelin-starred restaurant doesn’t have a fixed menu, allowing for a dynamic and ever-changing dining experience. On average, diners spend about $75 to $100 per person, depending on their selections. Their signature items, like the lychee salad with pork sausage, showcase the restaurant’s ability to blend diverse flavors in unexpected ways.
Sushi Nakazawa
Sushi Nakazawa is a Michelin-starred sushi restaurant, providing an exceptional omakase experience in the heart of Washington DC. With fish flown in daily from Tokyo’s Tsukiji Market, the quality of the sushi is unparalleled. The omakase menu is priced at $150 per person, with an optional sake pairing available for an additional $75. The minimalist decor and attentive service create an atmosphere that allows the exquisite sushi to take center stage.
The Lafayette
Located in the historic Hay-Adams Hotel, The Lafayette offers an upscale dining experience with breathtaking views of Lafayette Square and the White House. The restaurant’s menu features classic American cuisine with a contemporary twist. A three-course dinner costs around $120 per person, with premium wine selections available at an additional cost. Signature dishes like the filet mignon with truffle butter highlight the restaurant’s commitment to high-quality ingredients and sophisticated flavors.
Blue Duck Tavern
Blue Duck Tavern is a contemporary American restaurant known for its farm-to-table approach and open kitchen concept. It is located in the Park Hyatt Hotel, offering a menu that changes with the seasons, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients. A typical meal costs around $100 per person, with additional charges for wine or cocktails. Its dishes, like the roasted bone marrow with herb salad, exemplify the restaurant’s focus on bold, hearty flavors and rustic elegance.
Komi
Komi, a Michelin-starred restaurant, offers a high-end Mediterranean dining experience with a focus on simplicity and bold flavors. The prix fixe menu is priced at $165 per person and includes a series of meticulously crafted courses. Dishes like the salt-baked branzino highlight the restaurant’s commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients and traditional Mediterranean techniques. Komi’s intimate setting and exceptional service create a memorable dining experience.
The Source by Wolfgang Puck
The Source by Wolfgang Puck is a modern Asian restaurant that combines traditional Asian flavors with contemporary culinary techniques. It is located near the Newseum and offers a prix fixe menu starting at $135 per person, with wine pairings available for an additional cost. The restaurant’s sleek, modern decor complements dishes like the Peking duck with house-made hoisin sauce, showcasing the culinary innovation for which Wolfgang Puck is renowned.
Le Diplomate
Le Diplomate is a bustling French brasserie located in the Logan Circle neighborhood, offering classic French cuisine in a vibrant, Parisian-style setting. A typical meal costs around $70 per person, with additional charges for wine or cocktails. Signature dishes like the steak frites exemplify the restaurant’s dedication to traditional French cooking techniques and high-quality ingredients. The lively atmosphere and authentic decor make Le Diplomate a favorite among locals and visitors.
Rasika
Rasika, an upscale Indian restaurant, is known for its modern interpretations of traditional Indian dishes and extensive wine list. Rasika offers a prix fixe menu starting at $95 per person, with added charges for wine pairings. Signature dishes like the black cod with mustard seeds and curry leaves highlight the restaurant’s ability to blend bold flavors and contemporary culinary techniques, creating a dining experience that is both exciting and sophisticated.
This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.
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