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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Washington DC

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106 restaurants available nearby

A photo of CUT by Wolfgang Puck restaurant
1. CUT by Wolfgang Puck
4.5
Awesome(604)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Georgetown
Booked 12 times today
CUT by Wolfgang Puck in Georgetown, Washington D.C. is a beacon for steak lovers seeking the epitome of culinary excellence. Praised for serving "the most perfect steak in DC," this restaurant excels in both food quality and service. Guests rave about the Nebraska filet, calling it "divine," and consistently celebrate the attentive and welcoming staff. As a testament to its commitment to a superlative dining experience, one reviewer exclaimed, "Seriously the best steak I’ve ever had and I’ve had a lot!" CUT by Wolfgang Puck not only promises a remarkable meal but delivers an unforgettable dining ambiance, making every visit a special occasion.
A photo of Tabard Inn restaurant
2. Tabard Inn
4.7
Exceptional(3781)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Dupont Circle
Booked 44 times today
At the heart of Dupont Circle in Washington lies the Tabard Inn, a culinary gem renowned for its exceptional Continental cuisine. Since 1922, this historic venue has served as a charming retreat, consistently delighting diners with its authentic and beautifully crafted dishes. Under the guidance of Executive Chef Matthew Zafrir, whose stellar background includes stints at notable D.C. establishments, the Tabard Inn offers a sophisticated menu that skillfully blends traditional favorites with inventive new offerings. Diners rave about the "delightful seasonal treats" like the gazpacho and rockfish, and the "succulent" chicken fricassee. The ambiance, described as a "cozy restaurant with great foods and warm services," complements the dining experience, making every visit memorable. Whether enjoying a meal on the picturesque patio or in the eclectic dining rooms, guests at the Tabard Inn are treated to a slice of Continental excellence that's both comforting and exciting.
A photo of Bresca restaurant
3. Bresca
4.7
Exceptional(869)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • U Street Corridor
Booked 23 times today
Bresca, nestled in the vibrant U Street Corridor of Washington, DC, is a beacon of contemporary French cuisine. The restaurant has garnered glowing accolades for its innovative approach to French dining, skillfully blending Eastern and Western culinary traditions under the guidance of Chef Ryan Ratino. Diners rave about the exceptional quality of dishes such as the Potato Pierogi and Diver Scallop, highlighting the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients which "sing of summer." The atmosphere is described as a perfect mix of cozy bistro charm and refined elegance, making every visit memorable. With accolades like "best duck I’ve ever had" and experiences that exceed expectations, Bresca stands out as a pinnacle of culinary excellence and creativity.
A photo of The Park at 14th restaurant
4. The Park at 14th
4.7
Exceptional(2914)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 21 times today
At The Park at 14th in Downtown Washington D.C., seafood enthusiasts are treated to an exquisite dining experience that tantalizes the taste buds with its high-quality and authentic seafood dishes. Nestled with a stunning view of Franklin Square, this venue is consistently praised for its culinary delights. Guests rave about the "amazing" seafood options, with particular shout-outs to the "blackened salmon that was worth every penny" and the "exceptionally delicious grits." The atmosphere is matched by the vibrant and attentive service, ensuring every seafood dish is a hit. As one reviewer put it, the food is "outstanding," making The Park at 14th a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-tier seafood experience in the heart of the capital.
A photo of Peacock Café restaurant
5. Peacock Café
4.8
Exceptional(1978)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Georgetown
Booked 21 times today
Peacock Café in Georgetown, Washington, stands out as a beacon of Persian cuisine, harmoniously blending it with contemporary American flavors. Celebrated Chef Maziar Farivar curates a menu that includes a unique selection of Contemporary Iranian dishes, providing a genuine taste of Persian culinary traditions amidst a cosmopolitan setting. Diners rave about the authenticity and creativity of the Persian offerings, with one guest exclaiming the Mahi Torsh-O Shirin was "amazing. Sweet, sour, savory, and crunchy!" and another praising the pistachio soup as "light and citrus-y and really delicious." These glowing testimonials underscore Peacock Café’s commitment to delivering exceptional Persian cuisine, making every dining experience memorable.
A photo of Dauphine’s restaurant
6. Dauphine’s
4.6
Exceptional(1392)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 11 times today
Dauphine’s in Downtown, Washington, D.C., is not just a restaurant but a vibrant celebration of New Orleans culture, particularly renowned for its exceptional Cocktail Bar. Patrons rave about their "refreshing and delicious" seasonal spritz and the "delightful spritz cocktail," highlighting the bar's creativity and quality. The cocktail list perfectly complements their New Orleans-inspired cuisine, creating a truly transportive experience. Whether it's the lively ambiance during happy hour or the elegant setting for a night out, each drink is crafted with meticulous care. As one reviewer puts it, the cocktails are "interesting and delicious," making Dauphine’s a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts in the capital.
A photo of The Greenhouse at The Jefferson, DC restaurant
7. The Greenhouse at The Jefferson, DC
4.7
Exceptional(1078)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 7 times today
Located in downtown DC, just four blocks from the White House, breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch are served under The Jefferson’s historic skylight in The Greenhouse. Natural light streams from above, creating an airy atmosphere that complements the light, fresh and energizing fare on our seasonal menus.
A photo of Michele’s restaurant
8. Michele’s
4.3
Awesome(291)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • West Loop
Booked 2 times today
Michele's, located in the vibrant West Loop of Washington, offers a delightful take on Contemporary French cuisine, crafted by MICHELIN-starred Chef Matt Baker. This restaurant stands out for its commitment to seasonal and high-quality ingredients, presented in a manner that's both sophisticated and accessible. Guests rave about the innovative dishes, like the "beef tartare and the potato truffle tarte … WOW," highlighting the unique blend of flavors that Chef Baker brings to the table. The atmosphere is described as perfect for any occasion, from a casual burger night to a special date, with live music and prime steaks enhancing the experience. Michele's not only promises but delivers a "delightful dining experience" with each visit, making it a must-visit destination for lovers of fine Contemporary French dining in Washington D.C.
A photo of Billy Hicks Georgetown restaurant
9. Billy Hicks Georgetown
4.1
Excellent(24)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Georgetown
Booked 10 times today
Welcome to Billy Hicks, a friendly neighborhood spot perched on a bustling corner in the heart of Georgetown, Washington, DC. We like to bring people together all day long serving coffee, spirits, and quality comfort food that just makes you feel good every single time. A warm, laid-back environment drizzled with nostalgic touches and a lived-in vibe invites you in and makes you want to linger. It’s always a good time for Billy Hicks.
A photo of Founding Farmers & Distillers DC: Chinatown restaurant
10. Founding Farmers & Distillers DC: Chinatown
4.4
Awesome(10321)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Mount Vernon Square
Booked 162 times today
At Founding Farmers & Distillers DC: Chinatown, located in the vibrant Mount Vernon Square of Washington, D.C., the essence of Contemporary American cuisine is celebrated with an innovative twist. Esteemed for its commitment to farm-to-table freshness and a menu rich in diversity, this restaurant stands out for its authentic American flavors blended with local influences. Praised for its “amazing food” and “excellent service,” patrons consistently applaud the quality and creativity of dishes like the Chinese fried chicken and the house-made cornbread. As one diner raved, it’s “definitely something to put on your bucket list.” The restaurant’s robust connection with American family farmers ensures that each meal is not only delightful but also rooted in sustainability and community support. With a lively ambiance and a menu that caters to varied palates, Founding Farmers & Distillers is a must-visit for anyone seeking a genuine taste of Contemporary American cuisine in the heart of the capital.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Robert
    Seattle / Eastern Washington •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Cut is a really great place to have breakfast, especially if you’re traveling, even if you’re not staying at the Rosewood hotel
    More info
    CUT by Wolfgang PuckPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Georgetown
    •
    4.5
  • MatthewVIP
    Washington, D.C. Area •25 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Not our first time here. Saturday brunch, but you could order from the brunch or the main menu, which is always good news. Great food and service. Everyone in our party loved it.
    More info
    Peacock CaféPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Georgetown
    •
    4.8
  • TimothyVIP
    Orlando / Central Florida East •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    What the heck. This place was quite the surprise. It blew us away. The food was surprisingly good. We ordered several different times, and each time the food came out fresh, hot, quickly, and looked like an artist put it together. The jumbo shrimp with cilantro goodness was amazing. Calamari better than it should have been. The service was amazing. The prices? Way too low. Happy hour prices are ridiculous. I mean so ridiculously low. I think maybe they just love people. I’m not sure. I’d make this my go to spot if I lived here.
    More info
    The Park at 14thPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown
    •
    4.7
  • SamVIP
    New York City •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Another wonderful meal at Brasca, every time my girlfriend and I decide to go here it is beyond incredible. Alexandra was great and our service was perfect all around. We will be back.
    More info
    BrescaPrice: Expensive• Contemporary French / American• U Street Corridor
    •
    4.7
  • KimVIP
    New York City •18 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    We had breakfast at the Tabard Inn because it looked like a unique hotel that I wanted to check out, and it was within walking distance from where I was staying. The hotel was charming and unique in its eclectic furnishings. The dining room was quiet. The breakfast was almost half what I paid at the Jefferson Hotel the day before and twice as good. I had eggs over easy. I asked for my bacon well done. It was cooked to perfection and one of the best orders of bacon I ever had. The biscuit and hash browns, which were more like roasted potatoes, were delicious. The service was attentive but not overbearing. I would return the next time I'm in DC.
    More info
    Tabard InnPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Dupont Circle
    •
    4.7

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Washington DC

Discover the essence of contemporary American cuisine in Exclusive, Washington DC, where a curated selection of restaurants offers a sophisticated blend of modern flavors and culinary innovation. Nestled in this upscale area, each dining venue brings its own unique twist to American classics, integrating local ingredients with global culinary techniques to delight the palate of discerning diners. The dining scene in Exclusive is characterized by its emphasis on quality and creativity, attracting food enthusiasts who appreciate a refined atmosphere and meticulously crafted dishes. These establishments not only focus on providing exceptional food but also on creating an immersive experience that combines aesthetic pleasure with gastronomic excellence. From expertly paired wine selections that complement each dish to elegantly designed interiors that reflect contemporary trends, the restaurants ensure every visit is memorable. Ideal for food lovers seeking a modern American dining experience, these venues epitomize the best of culinary sophistication in Washington DC. Whether you are planning a special night out or a casual dining experience, the contemporary American restaurants in Exclusive offer something uniquely appealing to everyone.

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