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Best Tapas Restaurants in Waterfront

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24 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Bodega Spanish Tapas & Lounge restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1611)
Price: Moderate
• Tapas • Georgetown
Booked 17 times today
Bodega Spanish Tapas & Lounge, nestled in the vibrant heart of Georgetown, Washington, DC, is a gem for aficionados of authentic Spanish tapas. This restaurant delights with its dramatic, culturally rich decor and an ambiance that transports you straight to the Costa del Sol. Guests rave about the diverse selection of tapas, highlighting favorites like the lamb chops, salmon, and arroz with mushrooms as "all excellent." The commitment to authenticity shines through dishes such as the "best paella in DC" and the warmly recommended gambas al ajillo. Perfect for any occasion, from romantic dinners to lively gatherings, Bodega offers a slice of Spain with "impeccable service" in a charming setting. Whether it’s the vibrant Matador Lounge or the serene fountain patio, Bodega promises an unforgettable dining experience that keeps patrons returning. "Highly recommend!" as many have exclaimed, making it a must-visit for tapas lovers in the city.
A photo of Jaleo - DC restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(10943)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas • Penn Quarter
Booked 163 times today
Jaleo in DC's vibrant Penn Quarter is a celebration of Spanish cuisine, offering an authentic tapas experience reminiscent of a lively Madrid tapas bar. Under the guidance of the esteemed Chef José Andrés, Jaleo boasts a menu that brilliantly captures the essence of Spanish flavors through both classical and contemporary dishes. Patrons rave about the "perfectly aged Manchego cheese" and "impeccably crisp croquetas," highlighting the meticulous care in each dish's preparation. The tapas are described as "a festive celebration of Spanish culture," with offerings so delightful that even a native of Spain praised their authenticity. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned tapas enthusiast, Jaleo promises a culinary journey through Spain that's both genuine and innovative, making every dining experience memorable.
A photo of Boqueria - Dupont restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(2304)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas • Dupont Circle
Booked 19 times today
Nestled just blocks from Dupont Circle, Boqueria - Dupont offers an authentic slice of Barcelona right in the heart of Washington. This vibrant tapas bar delights with its "energetic yet intimate" ambiance, perfect for enjoying Spanish culinary traditions. From the "delicious and relaxing" lunches to the "super cute brunch spots," Boqueria consistently impresses with its array of Spanish favorites like patatas bravas, gambas, and a seafood paella that's a "blend of flavors and perfect size." Guests rave about the "fabulous food and setting," with special mentions of the "fantastic sangria" and the "amazing service" that make every visit memorable. Whether it’s the bustling patio or the contemporary indoor space, Boqueria - Dupont is a celebrated destination for those seeking a genuine taste of Spain in DC.
A photo of Boqueria - Penn Quarter restaurant
4.5
Awesome(539)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas • Penn Quarter
Booked 19 times today
Boqueria - Penn Quarter in Washington is a vibrant hub for authentic Spanish tapas that brings a slice of Barcelona right to the heart of DC. Guests rave about the "terrific food" and "stellar service," making it a standout for tapas enthusiasts. The restaurant offers an array of meticulously crafted small plates, such as the celebrated "patatas bravas" and "croquetas de jamón," which are consistently highlighted as favorites. The atmosphere is described as "elegant" and perfectly suited for everything from lively gatherings to intimate date nights. Reviewers frequently mention the "authentic Spanish cuisine with a modern twist" and praise the knowledgeable staff for enhancing their dining experience. Whether it's the "delicious sangria" or the "amazing paella," Boqueria - Penn Quarter ensures a memorable culinary journey with every visit.
A photo of Taberna del Alabardero restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(3852)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas • Downtown
Booked 33 times today
Nestled steps away from The White House, Taberna del Alabardero offers an exquisite slice of Spain in Downtown Washington, D.C. Celebrating its 30th anniversary with a 2019 Honorary RAMMY award, this restaurant is lauded as a beacon of Spanish authenticity. Patrons rave about its "terrific dining experience" and "excellent food" that transport them straight to Spain. From the "wonderful seafood paella" to the "amazing grilled octopus," each dish crafted by Spanish Chef Oscar Ordonez is a testament to traditional Spanish flavors. The ambiance is equally praised, with live flamenco music and dancing enhancing the vibrant, royal Spanish atmosphere. Whether it's for the classic tapas or the luscious paellas, Taberna del Alabardero is a must-visit for an authentic Spanish culinary journey.
A photo of Palette 22 restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(3097)
Price: Moderate
• Tapas • Arlington
Booked 33 times today
Located in the Village at Shirlington, Palette 22 is a small-plates, tapas-style restaurant focused on food, art and fun. The open kitchen produces shareable, flavor-forward dishes, which pair perfectly with a pitcher of house-made signature sangria. Enjoy watching live entertainment and artists practicing their craft throughout the restaurant, including painters, jewelry-makers and sculptor. All art on the walls is for sale. Open for lunch, dinner and bottomless weekend brunch.
A photo of The Bazaar by José Andrés - DC restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(974)
Price: Very Expensive
• Tapas • Penn Quarter
Booked 111 times today
At The Bazaar by José Andrés in the Penn Quarter of Washington DC, the tapas and small plates are not just meals; they're culinary adventures. Housed in the historic and luxurious Waldorf Astoria, this restaurant offers an unparalleled dining experience. Guests rave about the "outstanding" and "inventive" dishes, where each bite is a burst of creativity and flavor. The tapas, including favorites like the Philly cheesesteak and dragonfruit ceviche, receive high praise for their "exceptional presentation and service." With its vibrant ambiance and Chef José Andrés’ genius at the helm, The Bazaar provides a tapas experience that is both "memorable" and "absolutely excellent," making it a must-visit destination for food lovers and casual diners alike.
A photo of Sabores Tapas Bar restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(120)
Price: Moderate
• Tapas • Arlington
Booked 6 times today
Sabores Tapas Bar in Arlington is a radiant gem that captures the essence of Latin American cuisine with a splash of Spanish flair, making it a go-to destination for food enthusiasts. Renowned for its "great mix of Latin food," including standout dishes like ceviche and churrasco, the restaurant ensures every plate is a delightful exploration of flavors. Diners consistently praise its "excellent service" and the "great ambiance," perfect for any occasion from casual brunches to festive dinners. As one of the best in Arlington, Sabores delights with its "authentic tapas" and vibrant atmosphere, promising an unforgettable culinary journey through Latin America.
A photo of Ambar - Arlington restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(4045)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas • Arlington
Booked 82 times today
Ambar in Arlington stands as a beacon of Balkan cuisine, offering an authentic and vibrant dining experience that truly captures the essence of the Balkans. Guests rave about the "Dining Without Limits" experience, which allows for endless sampling of diverse dishes, each echoing the rich culinary traditions of the Balkan region. Reviewers consistently praise the restaurant's ability to blend traditional flavors with innovative twists, noting the "imaginative preparation" and "delicious" results. The extensive selection of premium Balkan wines further complements the dining experience, ensuring each visit is both unique and memorable. Ambar's commitment to quality and authenticity makes it a must-visit destination for lovers of Balkan cuisine, with one patron noting, "The cream sauce on the mussels would make a flip flop edible—it's that good." Whether it's the friendly service, the beautifully presented small plates, or the lively atmosphere, Ambar promises an exceptional Balkan feast every time.
A photo of Silver Social restaurant
4.4
Awesome(174)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas • Navy Yard
Booked 4 times today
Silver Social in Navy Yard, Washington, offers a delightful blend of elevated comfort food and contemporary American sharing plates that are both creative and satisfying. Executive Chef Ype Von Hengst ensures each dish showcases a fusion of traditional flavors with a modern twist, perfectly complemented by an exquisite craft drink menu. Nestled above the Silver Diner, guests can enjoy stunning views from the 50-seat covered outdoor terrace overlooking Nationals Park. Diners rave about the "wonderful views" and "fantastic variety of food options," highlighting the exceptional service and vibrant atmosphere. With glowing reviews like "The Experience dining option was truly excellent," it's clear that Silver Social is a top destination for those seeking a standout contemporary American dining experience in the heart of Washington.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Robynvip
    San Francisco Bay Area •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    The food was fantastic. The waiter may have been part owner. If not, he should be. He was excellent. I have a son with Celiac, and they dedicate an area of the kitchen to cook for allergies. My son has never been able to order so many things at a restaurant, and by far his favorite experience.
    More info
    Ambar - ArlingtonPrice: Expensive• Tapas / Small Plates• Arlington
    4.6
  • Kimvip
    Washington, D.C. Area •18 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Wonderful brunch! The bottomless brunch is an incredible value. You can try everything on the menu. I do not suggest that though it’s too much food. Everything we tried was served hot fresh and delicious. The whole vibe was so cool. We will be back!
    More info
    Palette 22 - Union MarketPrice: Moderate• Tapas / Small Plates• NoMa
    4.7
  • Kelly
    Detroit / Eastern Michigan •23 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    I booked this particular restaurant as I wanted to give my husband his favorite food on his 65th birthday with one of his favorite chefs-José. To say that we could not have been more impressed with the food, is an understatement. We had the price fix lunch menu with a twist. My husband and I are food and wine enthusiasts. We asked our waiter, I cannot remember his name, to see if he could pair wine with each of our courses. All I have to say is 4 out of 4 courses of food blew us away, the wine pairing was spot on! It was a 5 star meal that we will remember forever. Thank you to the staff for making this afternoon a memorable meal. Aaron & Kelly G
    More info
    The Bazaar by José Andrés - DCPrice: Very Expensive• Spanish• Penn Quarter
    4.7
  • Janeannvip
    Washington, D.C. Area •33 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    From the moment you step into Jaleos , you’re enveloped in energy. The vibrant decor beautiful colorful throughout sets the stage for an unforgettable culinary adventure. The lively chatter and laughter of fellow diners create an atmosphere that is both inviting and exhilarating. The star of the show is undoubtedly the tapas. Each dish is a masterpiece, bursting with flavor. The grilled octopus is tender and smoky, paired with the refreshing endives with goat cheese, almonds and citrus elevates the experience. And then there’s the ibérico ham—oh, the ibérico ham! It’s nothing short of stupendous. Sliced paper-thin, it melts in your mouth, delivering an explosion of nutty, savory flavors that linger long after each bite. The service is equally impressive, with staff who are not only knowledgeable but genuinely passionate about the food they serve. In summary, Jaleos is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Spanish cuisine. With its energetic vibe, outstanding tapas, and magnificent ibérico ham, it promises an experience that delights all the senses!
    More info
    Jaleo - DCPrice: Expensive• Spanish• Penn Quarter
    4.7
  • Jillvip
    Washington, D.C. Area •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    We had a wonderful dinner at Oyamel after visiting the Holiday Market at Gallery Place. The food continues to be delicious. Our favorites were the cheese enchiladas with mole sauce, the sweet potato and black bean tamale, the shrimp ceviche and the mushroom tacos. The portions were just right and the prices were reasonable. We changed our party size from 4 to 5 and back to 4 again. The staff was very accommodating as we had to make changes. It was a great evening with friends
    More info
    OyamelPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Penn Quarter
    4.7
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