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Best Authentic Restaurants in Penn Quarter

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118 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Zaytinya - DC restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(19296)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • Penn Quarter
Booked 209 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 Jaleo - DC restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(10906)
Price: Expensive
• Spanish • Penn Quarter
Booked 108 times today
Jaleo brings alive the spirit and flavors of Spain with a menu reflecting the rich regional diversity of classical and contemporary Spanish cuisine, under the direction of renowned chef José Andrés. Jaleo offers an impressive assortment of tapas, the traditional small dishes of Spain, as well as savory paellas, superb sangrias and a fine selection of Spanish wines and Sherries in a festive, casual atmosphere.
A photo of Oyamel restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(9553)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Penn Quarter
Booked 82 times today
Oyamel Cocina Mexicana combines Mexico’s rich regional culinary traditions with modern urban fare. Guests experience an array of antijitos—traditional Mexican snack or small plates—along with authentic tacos, ceviches and an impressive selection of cocktails and tequilas. Under the direction of renowned chef José Andrés, Head Chef Omar Rodriguez takes traditional ingredients and techniques and elevates them to deliver dishes and drinks with exceptional creativity and refinement.
A photo of Centrolina restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2100)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • Penn Quarter
Booked 23 times today
Centrolina is an Italian restaurant and market, locally owned and operated by Chef Amy Brandwein, set in Washington’s CityCenterDC development. The Osteria showcases a seasonally driven menu of authentic and innovative Italian dishes offered for lunch and dinner. Chef Brandwein's menu is inspired from the seasons, Italian regionality and the wide variety of Chef curated product in the adjoining market. The market showcases a selection of imported Italian specialty items along with locally sourced meat, sustainable fish, and produce from local farms. The Centrolina kitchen produces daily hand crafted fresh pasta and sauces, antipasti and entrees available for takeaway. For parties of 7 people or more, we do require a prix-fixe menu, please email caroline@centrolinadc.com for additional information.
A photo of Carmine's - Washington DC restaurant
4.5
Awesome(6514)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Penn Quarter
Booked 81 times today
Carmine's is a family style restaurant offering exceptional value to its guests through the many dishes of Southern Italian cuisine. Restaurateur Artie Cutler crafted Carmine's with a singular vision; bringing his guests abundant portions and making any meal feel like an Italian American wedding feast. Platters of made to order pasta, decadent seafood or meat entrees, and of course homemade desserts are all staples at Carmine's, meant for sharing among friends and family. When great food and wine are supported by friendly and knowledgeable service, the results are magic - we want every day to feel like a Sunday afternoon at Grandma's! We are open for Indoor & Outdoor Dining, Pick-up, Delivery, Catering and Private Parties. Your safety is our priority. DC no longer requires proof of vaccination to dine indoors. Indoor & Outdoor dining are available.
A photo of Tonari restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(311)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Penn Quarter
Booked 30 times today
Tonari is our Wafu Italian restaurant. WAFU means Japanese-style, so our menu is a Japanese take on Italian food. It originated in Japan through the love that the Japanese had for Italian food but wanted to incorporate some of their cultural flavors and ingredients to them. We at Daikaya Group and chef & owner, Katsuya Fukushima, are bringing this experience to you here in DC.Looking for some fun Japanese antipasti bites, one of a kind pasta dishes, or pizza that you won't find anywhere else in the city? Then come join us for dinner, we look forward to having you soon.
A photo of DAIKAYA 2F THE IZAKAYA restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(2112)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Penn Quarter
Booked 15 times today
DAIKAYA 2F THE IZAKAYA is a vibrant, authentic Japanese eatery located in Washington, D.C. It serves freestyle and adaptive comfort food, perfect for after-work chats or late-night bites with friends. The cuisine is inspired by street food flavors, as reflected in reviews such as 'food was good... very unique and full of flavor.' Patrons love the diverse selection of bar offerings, the unique small plates, and the high-quality service. The ambiance has been described as 'fun, very Japanese', giving a true sense of being in Tokyo.
A photo of Cuba Libre - DC restaurant
4.1
Excellent(3144)
Price: Expensive
• Cuban • Mount Vernon Square
Booked 4 times today
Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar is dedicated to a continued exploration of Cuban heritage, art, music, flavors and traditions. The open-air setting, tropical ambiance, vintage décor, Latin music and two-time James Beard Award winning founding Chef Guillermo Pernot's menu of classic and contemporary Cuban cuisine make the restaurant a must-see, must-experience dining destination. Enjoy a signature mojito with your dinner, weekend brunch or late night dancing (Fridays and Saturdays after 11 PM). Planning a private event? Visit Cuba Libre’s website to learn about the various event spaces, party enhancements, and customizable menus.
A photo of Olio e Più - DC restaurant
4.5
Awesome(102)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Washington
Booked 91 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.
A photo of Filomena Ristorante restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(17052)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Georgetown
Booked 137 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!

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Howard
    West Palm Beach •14 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Great family style Italian restaurant experience. We had dinner in one of the little side rooms which added an unexpected degree of intimacy. Shrimp fra diablo was excellent, along with the Caesar salad, and the garlic toast. But the dessert was the best— the Titanic is unforgettable! Excellent service complemented well the exceptionally excellent food.
    More info
    Carmine's - Washington DCPrice: Moderate• Italian• Penn Quarter
    4.5
  • Rachel
    Los Angeles •17 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Food was so amazingly good, from the roasted cauliflower to the tender and flavorful steak. The service was friendly and helpful, modifying the chef's menu for our vegetarian with shellfish allergy guest. And the overall enviroment was warm, welcoming, and cozy. My only complaint is that the experience is so good that no one wants to leave their tables! Like a great family dinner. Thank you
    More info
    Zaytinya - DCPrice: Expensive• Mediterranean• Penn Quarter
    4.7
  • Colby
    Austin •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Love the food! The service is always excellent!! We always make reservations when we go to DC.
    More info
    OyamelPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Penn Quarter
    4.7
  • Paulvip
    Baltimore / Maryland •19 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Amazing variety of food choices and definitely not what I could make it at home. I can see why it's popular.
    More info
    Jaleo - DCPrice: Expensive• Spanish• Penn Quarter
    4.7
  • Susan
    New York City •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Excellent authentic Italian food with amazing service. A special treat for all of us! Will be back!
    More info
    CentrolinaPrice: Very Expensive• Italian• Penn Quarter
    4.7

Discover best authentic restaurants in Penn Quarter

Explore the vibrant and diverse dining scene in Washington, D.C.’s Penn Quarter, where authenticity is at the heart of every culinary experience. From the fusion of Peruvian, Chinese, and Japanese flavors to the rich and traditional tastes of Spain, these restaurants offer a journey into the world's most beloved cuisines right in the heart of the capital. Each establishment captures the essence of their respective cultures, offering dishes that are not only authentic but also creatively presented and expertly prepared. Patrons can expect unique dining experiences that combine traditional methods with modern twists, ensuring every meal is both memorable and satisfying. The dining scene in Penn Quarter is characterized by its commitment to authenticity, providing a delightful array of options that cater to lovers of genuine, culturally rich culinary adventures. Whether you are seeking an immersive experience in Spanish tapas or the comfort of Japanese street food, Penn Quarter's restaurant scene promises an authentic taste that truly represents its diverse and international spirit.

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