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Best Authentic Restaurants in Downtown

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205 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Via Sophia Washington DC restaurant
1. Via Sophia Washington DC
4.4
Awesome(780)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Downtown
Booked 18 times today
Via Sophia Washington DC is an authentic Italian restaurant as indicated by a reviewer who noted it as 'authentic Italian (not Italian-American) cuisine'. The restaurant's mission to reimagine the osteria experience for downtown D.C is reflected in its menu which offers classic Italian dishes and fresh-from-the-oven pizzas. The consistent high ratings in food, ambience, and service further affirm its authenticity.
A photo of The Continent DC restaurant
2. The Continent DC
4.2
Awesome(135)
Price: Very Expensive
• African • Downtown
Booked 48 times today
From the savory stews of West Africa to the aromatic spices of East Africa, The Continent DC offers a menu crafted to bring you the best flavors from various African regions. Our restaurant is designed to reflect the rich cultures and traditions of Africa, offering a cozy and welcoming environment for you to enjoy your meal.
A photo of The Greenhouse at The Jefferson, DC restaurant
3. The Greenhouse at The Jefferson, DC
4.7
Exceptional(1105)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Downtown
Booked 12 times today
The Greenhouse at The Jefferson is hailed as a delightful dining spot with an airy atmosphere and a menu filled with fresh, seasonal dishes. Reviewers consistently praise its excellent food, superb service, and beautiful ambiance. The dining experience is described as 'elegant', 'refined', and 'luxurious'. It's not just the food that gets high marks, the wine list and menu options are also commended. It's a place that many diners highly recommend for special occasions.
A photo of Lincoln - DC restaurant
4. Lincoln - DC
4.3
Awesome(3410)
Price: Moderate
• American • McPherson Square
Booked 22 times today
Founded in 2011 our seasonal menu features comfort food with a twist. LINCOLN pays tribute to one of the greatest US Presidents, with nods to many of his favorite foods including our signature chicken pot pie & another star on the menu, our kale salad. The menu is focused but varietal. Our cocktails are truly one-of-a-kind. Our barkeeps have created one of the city’s thoughtful bar programs highlighted by infused bourbons and DC's first moonshine-list served in antique-style copper cups. Our patio is open all year-round, offering a relaxed, urban landscape. Don't miss our butcher cut NY Strip or the city's best Mac & Cheese. LINCOLN is the right place for your next private event with many options for private dining from 10 to 200. Original paintings & distinctive interior design by homegrown artist, Maggie O’Neill. LINCOLN is your destination for Lunch, happy hour, dinner or brunch. We are open Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Easter & Mother's Day for your special celebration.
A photo of Il Piatto restaurant
5. Il Piatto
4.4
Awesome(692)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Downtown
Booked 47 times today
Il Piatto is the modern expression of the classic Italian cuisine. Enjoy a selection of antipasto, pastas, gnocchi, and more! Our private dining package seats 35 guests or holds a reception for 50 guests. With a view of the wine cellar, our Italian restaurant is perfect for all kinds of events.Il Piatto is open for lunch, brunch, dinner and happy hour. *Please note, we serve brunch on holiday Mondays and the 4th of July*
A photo of Mazi restaurant
6. Mazi
4.6
Exceptional(748)
Price: Expensive
• American • Downtown
Booked 24 times today
Creative New American Cuisine influenced and inspired by Greek and Mediterranean recipes and flavors.
A photo of Bombay Club restaurant
7. Bombay Club
4.8
Exceptional(5336)
Price: Expensive
• Indian • Downtown
Booked 42 times today
The Bombay Club emulates characteristics of the old clubs of India. The elegant environment with pale pastels, ceiling fans, and a profusion of greenery is designed to create a warm and inviting gathering place for relaxation and regeneration. The cuisine is the finest of India, utilizing only the best quality ingredients to create a harmony of subtle flavors. Specialties prepared by Executive Chef Nilesh Singhvi, include tandoori salmon and green chili chicken. The sophisticated cuisine is enhanced by refine service and live piano music. Distinguished Restaurant of North America Award.
A photo of Zaytinya - DC restaurant
8. Zaytinya - DC
4.7
Exceptional(19619)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • Penn Quarter
Booked 355 times today
Under the direction of celebrated chef José Andrés and concept chef Michael Costa, Zaytinya offers an innovative mezze menu inspired by Turkish, Greek, and Lebanese cuisines served up in a sleek and modern setting. Building on Jose’s deep knowledge of Mediterranean cooking and years of research and travel, the menu features shared small plates of authentic and innovative fare, creative cocktails, and unique Mediterranean wines, making Zaytinya one of the most exciting restaurants in Washington, DC.
A photo of Filomena Ristorante restaurant
9. Filomena Ristorante
4.8
Exceptional(17393)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Georgetown
Booked 256 times today
Filomena Now over 40 Years and counting!Filomena is a Washington DC landmark restaurant now with over 40 years of serving some of the finest Italian food you can enjoy. Our Pasta is fresh made by hand just like it was done for centuries in Italy. Our bakery is in-house, and we make over 20 different desserts to choose from. During Valentine's Day, Easter, Halloween and Christmas you can experience some of the most incredible decorations you can find! Four decades of making not just a great dining experience but a memorable one. Filomena has recently introduced a full line of homemade pasta, sauces, desserts that can be shipped nationwide too!
A photo of Olio e Più - DC restaurant
10. Olio e Più - DC
4.3
Awesome(284)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Washington
Booked 75 times today
Located at 699 14th Street on the coveted corner of 14th and G Street NW, OLIO E PIÙ, is situated on the most high-profile street in Washington D.C., just one block away from the White House, bringing Italian tradition and a true sense of Mediterranean liveliness to the Penn Quarter. As an authentic trattoria, its cuisine is based on classic Italian dishes. As you dine at OLIO E PIÙ, you’ll be transported not just by the flavors of Italy but also by the authentic atmosphere that surrounds you. Here, the spirit of 1970s Italian elegance lives on, and every meal is a celebration of life, love, and the joy of shared moments. OLIO E PIÙ is more than just a restaurant; it’s a portal to a different time and place, where the essence of Italy’s rich culinary and cultural heritage is captured in every detail.

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Discover best authentic restaurants in Downtown

Discover the essence of authenticity in Washington D.C.'s vibrant Downtown dining scene. Whether you're craving Spanish, Italian, seafood, or classic American steakhouse fare, the area offers a variety of restaurants that are celebrated for maintaining the authenticity of their culinary offerings. These establishments are not just about food; they provide a holistic dining experience that encapsulates both traditional flavors and the cultural heritage of their respective cuisines. Patrons consistently praise these restaurants for their commitment to quality and authenticity, often highlighting the expertise of chefs who skillfully bring authentic recipes to the table. The dining atmosphere in Downtown D.C. is characterized by a blend of sophistication and genuine cultural ambiance, making it a prime destination for those seeking an authentic dining experience. From fresh seafood to expertly crafted Italian dishes and beyond, each restaurant promises a journey of culinary delight rooted in authenticity. This area truly represents a microcosm of global cultures, all while being nestled in the heart of the nation’s capital.

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