Washington, DC

Washington, DC is a city that is truly blessed with a vibrant and diverse food scene. From the traditional American cuisine to the international flavors, DC has something to offer for every palate.

One of the most exciting aspects of the food scene in DC is the abundance of farm-to-table restaurants that source their ingredients from local farms and markets. This not only supports the local community but also ensures that diners are getting the freshest, most flavorful dishes possible. Many of these restaurants also have a focus on sustainable and organic practices, making for an environmentally conscious dining experience.

For international cuisine, DC has a variety of options from Ethiopian, to Lebanese, to Korean. The city also has a strong presence of Latin American food, especially from countries like Mexico, El Salvador, and Peru. You can find street food, fine dining, and everything in between.

DC also has a thriving cocktail and craft beer scene, with many bars and pubs offering locally made spirits and brews. The city’s nightlife is also heavily influenced by its food scene, with many bars and restaurants hosting events and pop-up dinners.

Another great aspect of the food scene in DC is the variety of food festivals and markets that take place throughout the year. From the annual Taste of DC festival to the Eastern Market, these events provide the perfect opportunity to sample the city’s culinary delights and get a taste of the local food culture.

Political Foodies

Washington, DC is known for being a political hub and as such, it’s no surprise that many politicians have their favorite hangout spots, particularly when it comes to restaurants. Here are a few examples:

• Former President Bill Clinton is known to have a fondness for the Italian restaurant, Trattoria Alberto. Located in the historic Eastern Market neighborhood, the restaurant is known for its traditional homemade pasta dishes and cozy atmosphere.
• Former President Barack Obama and his family have been spotted at a number of restaurants throughout the city, but one of their favorites is Ben’s Chili Bowl. A DC institution, the restaurant has been serving up chili dogs and half smokes for over 60 years and is a favorite among politicians, celebrities, and locals alike.
• Former Vice President Joe Biden is a regular at the Italian restaurant, Cafe Milano. The upscale restaurant, located in Georgetown, is known for its Northern Italian cuisine and has hosted many political events and fundraisers.
• Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi is a fan of the seafood restaurant, Old Ebbitt Grill. Established in 1856, the restaurant is one of the oldest in Washington, DC, and is known for its classic American fare and historic atmosphere.
• Former Secretary of State Colin Powell is a regular at the Mediterranean restaurant, Zaytinya. The restaurant is known for its mezze platters and small plates, and Powell has been spotted there many times over the years.

Overall, the food scene in Washington, DC is one that is constantly evolving and expanding, offering something new and exciting for both locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re looking for a casual bite or a fine dining experience, DC’s food scene is sure to satisfy.