When you think of dining in Washington, D.C., you might imagine power lunches with political leaders but the area has a softer side too. Whether it’s enjoying caviar and Champagne in a cozy Georgetown row house, dining at charming countryside inns known for their great restaurants, or indulging in excellent Indian food that even attracts celebrities like Mick Jagger, D.C. offers plenty of romantic dining options.
These are 9 great restaurants that are Most Romantic Restaurants in DC. They have delicious food, nice waiters and waitresses, and comfortable seating. Whether you’re looking for a place for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner, a casual first date with drinks, a special occasion blow-out, or anything in between, this list has something for you. Just remember to call ahead and make a reservation, especially if it’s a weekend or a special occasion.
L’Auberge Chez Francois
In 1954, a culinary pioneer François Haeringer wanted to bring the flavors of his Alsatian homeland to D.C. Today his sons continue his legacy at a beloved inn in Falls Church, decorated with family heirlooms and murals of Haeringer’s birthplace in France. The restaurant is still best known for its hot souffle. Arrive early to enjoy a creative cocktail from the downstairs bar or take a walk around the beautiful six-acre gardens during warmer months. Check Website- L’Auberge Chez Francois
The Ashby Restaurant
Set on a beautiful green landscape with rolling hills and blooming flowers, this historic Virginia wine country restaurant and inn is both charming and romantic. On a nice day, get a table on the outdoor patio. On a cooler day, enjoy the winter truffle risotto topped with shaved truffles and egg yolk.
La Ferme Restaurant
Since 1985, this charming country farmhouse in Chevy Chase has been known for its French delicacies like foie gras creme brulee, pate and sauteed calf liver. The restaurant features a large fireplace, a year-round porch, porcelain rooster statues, and a piano player, creating a timeless and whimsical atmosphere. It also offers the modern perk of plenty of free parking. For a more casual experience, visit the Cognac bar for a beloved burger and draft beers in a cozy, wood-framed setting.
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Tail Up Goat
This cozy neighborhood restaurant with a Michelin star blends a relaxed Caribbean vibe with excellent service, allowing diners to focus on each other. Shareable plates create an intimate dining experience, though guests might end up playfully arguing over the last bite of crispy salt cod with smoked cauliflower aioli. Giving up that last bite is a sweet romantic gesture.
Iron Gate Restaurant
A dining room with a roaring fire is one of the features that make this historic Dupont Circle restaurant so intimate. Share dishes from the family-style menu with wine pairings, or order individual items like daily focaccia and Mediterranean octopus with sweet potatoes, frisée, sherry vinegar, and black garlic aioli.
Tabard Inn
This charming spot near Dupont Circle is perfect for a date night. Begin by cozying up on a comfortable couch with a glass of wine by the fireplace, enjoying live jazz every Sunday and Monday night in its living room-style lobby. This century-old boutique hotel has enhanced its menu with James Beard Award semifinalist Ian Boden, chef-owner of The Shack in Staunton, Virginia, as its new culinary partner.
Quill at The Jefferson
For a romantic night out with classy drinks and light bites, the recently reopened Quill in the Jefferson Hotel is perfect. It offers smart cocktails, flights of rare Madeira wines, satisfying bar food, and a dimly lit space with warm wood paneling. You can keep it light with king salmon tartar with avocado mousse, grapefruit, tobiko, and creme fraiche, or go for a plate of fettuccine bolognese. If it turns into a memorable night, this timeless spot is worth revisiting long after trendy places have come and gone.
1789 Restaurant & Bar
This fine-dining spot in Clyde’s restaurant group is very intimate, with cozy dining rooms and fireplaces in a historic Georgetown home. Executive chef Charles Kreiser offers an a la carte menu with dishes like American wagyu tartare and veal tagliatelle. Next door, the stylish mahogany bar called Fitzgerald’s has reopened, serving classic cocktails, rare Japanese whiskies, and elegant snacks in a setting that looks like a Ralph Lauren ad.
Rasika West End
The trendy sibling of Penn Quarter’s Rasika, this restaurant features a large, sound-absorbing wood installation on the ceiling, allowing for quiet conversations. Aim for one of the cozy booths by the windows or a table in the library area, where you can enjoy Indian cuisine by James Beard Award-winning chef Vikram Sunderam. It’s also worth noting that both Angelina Jolie and Mick Jagger have dined here, adding to its reputation as a popular spot.