By Lauren Ofman, Editor-in-Chief
After four years of surfing OpenTable, sifting through Yelp reviews and stalking D.C. food Instagram accounts, I have officially determined my top five restaurants in the District. From casual fast food spots to gourmet Italian, this list should provide you with go-to spots for any occasion. Here they are, in no particular order:
1. Zaytinya
One of many establishments by the infamous restaurateur (and GW Professor) Jose Andres, Zaytinya’s Mediterranean influence, fresh ingredients and sophisticated atmosphere has hoisted it into my top five. Tapas-style dishes ranging from perfectly seasoned vegetables like crispy brussels with yogurt sauce and tahini lemon cauliflower to traditional proteins like beef kofta and kebabs will truly leave you speechless. Bring a few friends and enjoy various spreads accompanied by some of the best complimentary bread D.C. has to offer. Zaytinya is the perfect spot to treat yourself to some delicious eats, because you deserve it.
2. Residents Cafe & Bar
Newer to my list, Residents in Dupont is so much more than the perfect Instagram backdrop. As decorations on the quaint outdoor patio change with the seasons, so does the food. One of my favorites is the fig and ricotta toast smothered with honey and layered with fresh figs on a stunning sourdough slice. Another is the Residents bowl, which includes zucchini fritters acting as the backdrop to the perfectly cooked protein of your choosing. Don’t be afraid to sit outside and enjoy the seasonal decor, numerous space heaters insulate guests on even the coldest winter day.
3. Barcelona Wine Bar
Odds are, you have already experienced the mouthwatering tapas at Barcelona Wine Bar. Do not despair if you made a reservation and they still make you wait 40 minutes because the food is actually worth it. If you’re of age, the white sangria is *chefs kiss* paired with, arguably, the second-best complimentary bread in D.C., hot sourdough with oil and vinegar on the side. Some notable favorites are the jamon and manchego croquetas which melt in your mouth and the spiced beef empanadas with the most perfect flaky crust. If you want to avoid the madness of the 14th street location, check out the Cathedral Heights location, which is usually more relaxed.
4. Falafel Inc.
Have you ever wandered around Georgetown with five bucks in your pocket and nowhere to eat? Please welcome Falafel Inc. This grab-and-go establishment serves $4 falafel sandwiches, $5 falafel bowls and $3 za’atar fries. Not to mention, everything, including the pita, is made in-house. And every purchase at Falafel Inc. helps a refugee in need through their partnership with the World Food Programme. Nothing is better than good, affordable food with a purpose. Get ready Foggy Bottom because Falafel Inc. is coming to Western Market very soon!
5. Floriana
I’m sorry to all Filomena diehards, but Floriana has the best pasta in the District. This stunning and homey Italian spot is located in Dupont Circle and has been serving freshly made, extremely flavorful pasta dishes and entrees since 1979. The perfect balance of sweet and savory, the ravioli di zucca houses butternut squash, gorgonzola and walnuts inside a pillowy pasta sheet cooked to perfection. Another honorable mention is the lamb gnocchi braised in chianti. This dish is a flavor explosion that will leave you satisfied for days. Floriana is a great spot for special occasions or when the fam comes to visit!
*All photos from Yelp
