Food guide · Washington DC
Washington DC food guide
From half-smokes and Ethiopian feasts to Chesapeake crab and food halls, DC is one of America’s most exciting food cities. Here is where to eat, neighborhood by neighborhood.
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Taste of DC
Dishes to try in Washington
The half-smoke
DC’s signature sausage, famously served at Ben’s Chili Bowl on U Street since 1958.
Ethiopian food
The DC area has one of the largest Ethiopian communities in the U.S.; look along U Street, Shaw and in Silver Spring.
Chesapeake blue crab
Crab cakes and steamed crabs, a Maryland tradition, at their best in summer.
Mumbo sauce
A sweet, tangy local sauce served on wings and fries at carryouts across the city.
Food halls
Union Market and the Wharf bring many small kitchens under one roof.
Fine dining
DC has a strong lineup of Michelin-recognized restaurants downtown and in Shaw.
By neighborhood
Where to eat
| Neighborhood | Known for |
|---|---|
| U Street & Shaw | Late-night eats, Ethiopian restaurants and lively bars |
| Union Market | A food hall and some of the city’s buzziest restaurants |
| The Wharf | Waterfront dining and the historic Maine Avenue Fish Market |
| Penn Quarter & Chinatown | Pre-theater dinners near Capital One Arena |
| Georgetown | Classic taverns, brunch and waterfront patios |
| Capitol Hill & Eastern Market | Weekend market stalls and neighborhood favorites |
| Old Town Alexandria | King Street dining just across the river |
Dinner plans
Leave the car to us
Parking near the busiest dining areas is scarce, and nobody should drive after a tasting menu. Book a chauffeur by the hour for a progressive dinner, or just a ride there and back.
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- A car waiting outside when you’re ready
FAQ
DC dining questions
What food is Washington DC known for?
The half-smoke, Ethiopian cuisine, mumbo sauce and, from nearby Maryland, Chesapeake blue crab.
Where should I eat in DC on a first visit?
U Street and Shaw for local character, the Wharf or Georgetown for the waterfront, and Union Market for variety.
Can you drive us between restaurants?
Yes. Book a chauffeur by the hour and we will take you between dinner, drinks and dessert, then home.
Dinner plans in DC? Book your ride.
Tell us your pickup, destination and time and we’ll confirm your car.
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