The Ultimate Washington DC Foodie Bucket List

Washington, DC, is a paradise for food lovers, offering a blend of historic eats, fine dining experiences, global cuisine, and hidden gems that capture the city's diverse culinary scene. Whether you're a local or just visiting, this guide will take you through the must-try dishes, iconic spots, and hidden gems that make up the ultimate D.C. foodie bucket list.

Iconic D.C. Eats You Ca n't-Miss

Ben’s Chili Bowl: The Half-Smoke and Its Historic Significance

A trip to D.C. isn’t complete without a visit to Ben’s Chili Bowl, an institution since 1958. Located on U Street, this historic eatery is famous for its half-smoke, half-pork, half-beef sausage grilled to perfection and topped with a spicy, flavorful chili. Over the years, it has become a favorite of locals, tourists, and even former U.S. presidents.

📍 Where to Try It: Ben’s Chili Bowl – 1213 U St NW, Washington, D.C.

Maryland-Style Crab Cakes: Where to Find the Best in D.C.

While Maryland may claim the crab cake as its own, D.C. has some of the best Maryland-style crab cakes outside the Chesapeake Bay. These cakes are packed with lump crab meat and seasoned to perfection.

📍 Best Spots for Crab Cakes:

• Old Ebbitt Grill (Website) – A historic D.C. staple near the White House, serving legendary crab cakes.
• Hank’s Oyster Bar (Website) – A seafood lover’s dream in Dupont Circle.

Jumbo Slice Pizza: The Late-Night Favorite in Adams Morgan

D.C.'s nightlife wouldn’t be complete without jumbo slice pizza—a massive, greasy, and oh-so-satisfying slice, perfect after a night out. Adams Morgan is the hub for this late-night delicacy, with heated debates over who serves the best.

📍 Where to Grab a Slice:

• Jumbo Slice Pizza – A fan favorite with slices larger than your head.
• Pizza Mart (Website) – A classic stop for revelers in Adams Morgan.

Fine Dining Hotspots for a Luxurious Culinary Experience

Michelin-Starred Restaurants: What Makes Them Stand Out

D.C. has become a fine dining powerhouse, boasting several Michelin-starred restaurants. These spots offer exquisite tasting menus, artful plating, and top-tier service.

📍 Must-Visit Michelin-Starred Restaurants:

• The Inn at Little Washington (Website) – The only three-Michelin-starred restaurant in the region.
• Pineapple & Pearls (Website) – A two-star experience offering a playful yet refined tasting menu.

Celebrity Chef-Owned Spots: José Andrés’ minibar

D.C. is home to José Andrés, a world-renowned chef who revolutionized the city’s dining scene. His minibar restaurant is a two-Michelin-starred spot offering an avant-garde experience with limited seating each night.

📍 Where to Indulge: minibar by José Andrés – 855 E St NW, Washington, D.C.

Tasting Menus Worth Splurging On

D.C. offers plenty for those looking to indulge in a multi-course experience.

📍 Where to Book a Tasting Menu:

• Métier (Website) – A hidden gem with a curated tasting experience.
• Rose’s Luxury (Website) – Offers an ever-changing tasting menu with bold flavors.

International Flavors: D.C.'s Best Global Cuisine

Ethiopian Cuisine in Adams Morgan and Its Cultural Roots

D.C. has the largest Ethiopian community in the U.S., making it the best place outside Addis Ababa to enjoy injera and doro wat.

📍 Best Ethiopian Restaurants:

• Dukem Ethiopian Restaurant (Website) – A local favorite that serves authentic dishes.
• Zenebech – A no-frills spot serving up some of the best Ethiopian food in the city.

Authentic Asian Spots in Chinatown and Beyond

While Chinatown’s famous arch may be symbolic, the best Asian cuisine isn’t limited to this neighborhood.

📍 Top Asian Eateries:

• Daikaya (Website) – Authentic Sapporo-style ramen.
• Mama Chang (Website) – Incredible home-style Chinese dishes by Chef Peter Chang.

The Best Latin American Eateries for Pupusas, Tacos, and More

D.C. has various Latin American flavors, from Salvadoran pupusas to authentic Mexican tacos.

📍 Must-Visit Spots:

• El Tamarindo (Website) – A legendary pupusa joint.
• Taqueria Habanero – Known for some of the best tacos in town.

Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Foodie Finds

Neighborhood Delis and Hole-in-the-Wall Spots Locals Love

D.C.’s food scene includes some lesser-known but equally incredible spots.

📍 Local Favorites:

• Stachowski’s Market – A butcher shop with a legendary pastrami sandwich.
• Bub and Pop’s (Website) – A tiny sandwich shop with huge flavors.

Food Trucks Serving Up Surprisingly Gourmet Dishes

D.C.’s food truck game is strong, offering gourmet dishes on the go.

📍 Top Picks:

• Fojol Bros. – A quirky, internationally inspired food truck.
• Pepe Food Truck – A José Andrés creation serving Spanish-style sandwiches.

Underrated Bakeries and Dessert Spots for a Sweet Finish

From fresh pastries to innovative desserts, D.C. has no shortage of places to satisfy your sweet tooth.

📍 Best Dessert Spots:

• Baked & Wired (Website) – Some of the best cupcakes in the city.
• Rose Ave Bakery – An Asian-inspired bakery with creative flavors.

Best Places for Brunch and Coffee Lovers

Trendy Brunch Spots with Unique Menu Offerings

Brunch is a serious affair in D.C.; these spots offer the best.

📍 Where to Brunch:

• Founding Farmers (Website) – A farm-to-table favorite.
• Compass Rose (Website) – Global flavors and an inviting atmosphere.

Local Coffee Roasters and Specialty Cafes Worth Visiting

For coffee lovers, D.C. has an abundance of locally roasted, high-quality brews.

📍 Best Coffee Spots:

• La Colombe – Serving artisanal, sustainably sourced coffee.
• The Wydown – A neighborhood favorite with expertly crafted espresso drinks.

Classic D.C. Breakfast Joints with a Cult Following

If you prefer a traditional breakfast, these old-school spots won’t disappoint.

📍 Where to Go:

• Florida Avenue Grill – A historic diner serving Southern-style breakfast.
• Ted’s Bulletin (Website) – Famous for its homemade pop tarts.

Conclusion

Washington, DC, is a foodie’s dream, offering everything from historic eats to Michelin-starred dining and hidden gems. Whether you're craving a half-smoke from Ben’s Chili Bowl, a luxurious tasting menu, or a hole-in-the-wall find, the city has something for every palate. Ready to explore? Start checking off your ultimate D.C. foodie bucket list today!