Diners' Choice: Romantic restaurants in District of Columbia

OpenTable

Updated 05 December 2024

Looking for restaurants that are the most romantic in District of Columbia? You’re in the right place. Each month, OpenTable analyses nearly 2 million global diner reviews from the past four months. We sort the results by location and category to help you discover new favourite restaurants. It's a great partnership: you book, eat, and review. We listen...and deliver the results for all to benefit. Enjoy!

Elizabeth's

4.9

4.9 (1280)

$50 and over

Vegan

Downtown

About the restaurant

Elizabeth's offers an extraordinary dining experience every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night. We merge our gorgeous venue with a prix fixe Vegan Tasting Menu at $110 per person. Elizabeth's is a destination for special occasions and adventurous cuisine.

Our sommelier curates a pairing of wines and beverages sourced from around the world at an additional $85 per person. We also offer a non-alcoholic beverage pairing comprised of non-alcoholic wines, mocktails, and infusions for $65 per person.

Fully raw menus are not available. Please call the restaurant (202-347-8349) in reference to any allergies prior to making your reservation. Regarding reservations of 5 or more, please call the restaurant directly.

We source and prepare the freshest ingredients for our exclusive fine dining experience. For this reason, reservation confirmations are required 24 hours in advance. Thank you for your understanding of the commitment that is made to creating a memorable dining experience.

Top review

Joan

Dined 2 days ago

Yesterday evening we celebrated my daughter's 38th birthday at Elizabeth's- and now all of us are ready to go back tonight.The minute you walk in the door of Elizabeth's you feel as if you have been welcomed into a cosy and elegant historical home. We were greeted warmly by Elizabeth and the staff, all of whom are incredibly friendly, knowledgeable and culinarily multi-talented. And the dinner experience is similar to being served a new piece of artwork with each course. Would I ever be able to replicate the Klamath Return, a kombu-marinated chioggia beet, caraway crisp and celery root, or the Cleopatra's Ambrosia, with sea buckthorn, pink banana sorbet and kinome leaf, or the Velvet Immortal with the saffron pickled enoki mushroom? Not in my wildest dreams. My family normally inhales their food, but this time conversation was at a minimum as we took time to appreciate each new amazing taste sensation. Our party consisted of one vegan, one vegetarian , and two omnivores, and all of us agreed Elizabeth's is the best restaurant in DC.

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4.8

4.8 (6299)

$31 to $50

American

Georgetown

About the restaurant

1789 is a historic fine dining restaurant and bar located in the heart of Georgetown with a charming and elegant atmosphere. Known for its elevated American cuisine, 1789 offers a menu that showcases seasonal ingredients and innovative flavors. The restaurant's culinary team is dedicated to creating dishes that are both visually stunning and delicious. In addition to an exceptional menu, 1789 also boasts an extensive wine list featuring a wide selection of domestic and international wines. With its rich history, exquisite cuisine, and warm ambiance, 1789 Restaurant & Bar is a must-visit destination for those seeking a memorable experience in the nation's capital.

Top review

Lynda

Dined 4 days ago

Fabulous evening in the 'fireplace room.' Lots of Christmas ambiance including an excellent roaming carolling group. Very good food and professional service.

Lafayette Restaurant

4.8

4.8 (1611)

$31 to $50

American

Downtown

About the restaurant

Washington’s destination for power dining, the Lafayette Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. With large windows opening onto Lafayette Park and the White House, this sun-lit dining room is one of the most elegant settings in the capital and is certain to complement any dining experience.

Top review

Debra

Dined 1 day ago

We had a fabulous meal in a wonderful atmosphere. Jose took wonderful care of us. We highly recommend it if you are looking for a quiet elegant atmosphere!

Reverie

4.8

4.8 (28)

$50 and over

Seafood

Georgetown

About the restaurant

Inspired by Chef Johnny Spero’s global travels, yet rooted in his Mid-Atlantic upbringing, Reverie is a Michelin-starred fine-dining experience that focuses on an entirely seafood driven menu.

Our current menu is offered at $255 per guest exclusive of beverage, service charge, taxes, or gratuities. Starting January 1, 2025, our tasting menu will adjust to $285 per guest.

Please allow 2.5 hours for this experience

We can accommodate some but not all food allergies so please inquire before booking via info@reveriedc.com. We are unable to provide dairy-free or fully vegetarian versions of our experience.

Top review

David

Dined on 20 Nov 2024

Returned and it’s even better ! They have refined their seafood tasting menu to a high level. We are talking Michelin Stars level of excellence here. Service is impeccable and the room and vibe are great. Worth a walk over if in Georgetown, a drive if in Dc or close by and a plane ride from anywhere now . It’s exceptional.

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Experience

Tasting Menu

Truluck's - Ocean's Finest Seafood & Crab - Washington, D.C.

4.7

4.7 (1901)

$31 to $50

Seafood

Mount Vernon Square

About the restaurant

Truluck's, a premier dining destination since 1992, offers high-quality seafood and exceptional service with a commitment to sustainability. Renowned for its Florida Stone Crab, Truluck's ensures this delicacy goes from trap to table in 24 hours during its October to May season. Under Corporate Executive Chef Thomas Dritsas, the menu features fresh seafood and prime steaks, complemented by an extensive beverage program. Adhering to Ocean Conservancy guidelines, Truluck's supports sustainable practices and community initiatives. With 12 locations and a dedicated team, Truluck's creates remarkable dining experiences. Reservations can be made online or via OpenTable.

Top review

Otis

Dined 1 day ago

Franklin our server was the ultimate professional and made our 37th Anniversary very special. The entire experience tonight was superb!!! I salute the executive chef!!! Kudos!!!

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Ruth's Chris Steak House - Washington DC

4.6

4.6 (693)

$50 and over

Steakhouse

West Loop

About the restaurant

Now Open: We look forward to serving you soon.

Due to the Mayors mandate, all spirits will be removed off tables by 10PM.

Ruth's Chris Steak House in Washington, DC serves the finest USDA Prime beef available, broiled at 1,800° and served on 500° plates, so your steak stays hot, juicy and delicious from first bite to last. Enjoy our New Orleans-inspired appetizers, USDA Prime steaks, fresh seafood, signature side dishes and homemade desserts. All this while you enjoy our warm, inviting atmosphere and Ruth’s Chris’ genuine hospitality. So whether you’re a regular or have just been wondering what all the buzz is about, Ruth's Chris is the perfect excuse to enjoy the perfect night out. Dinner is served nightly, reservations are suggested and private dining and offsite catering may be arranged.

Top review

Nykia

Dined 7 days ago

Amazing service and amazing food. The experience was exceptional

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Experience

Holiday Lunch

Lyle's

4.6

4.6 (209)

$30 and under

American

Dupont Circle

About the restaurant

Lyle’s is the perfect neighborhood restaurant and bar serving breakfast, brunch and dinner as well as familiar cocktails prepared with a gentle twist. You’ll find seasonal, contemporary American fare paired with easy-going service. A restaurant of casual sophistication meant to bring together the community in the heart of Dupont Circle.

Top review

MorganVIP

Dined on 24 Nov 2024

Phenomenal I’m still dreaming of my short rib hash :)

Moonraker

4.5

4.5 (358)

$50 and over

Japanese

Southwest Waterfront

About the restaurant

Welcome to Moonraker at Pendry Washington DC – The Wharf, a signature rooftop hideaway with a Japanese inspired menu of light bites and sushi alongside handcrafted cocktails, a curated selection of Japanese whiskeys, and more. All set around a stunning central bar boasting panoramic views of the waterfront. A laidback lounge by day evolves into a buzzy nightlife scene alongside a handsome bar that sets the scene for intimate soirées and nighttime meet ups, all by the Potomac.

Introducing Capitol Brunch. Meet us at Moonraker for an all-new weekend brunch menu, featuring everything from bottomless brunch cocktails to Japanese-infused breakfast classics.

Please note the following for your reservation:
Reservations are limited to (2) Hour Dine Times.
Our Culinary Offerings conclude at 10:00 PM weekdays, and 11:00 PM weekends.
Moonraker does not have a dress code but does recommend appropriate casual wear.

Top review

Divya

Dined on 12 Dec 2024

Bordeaux, tuna sushi, and edamame were delicious. Excellent service

Ristorante La Perla of Washington

4.3

4.3 (1556)

$31 to $50

Italian

Georgetown

About the restaurant

The restaurant of choice of many distinguished diners and restaurant critics, Ristorante La Perla of Washington, located near Georgetown at the tail-end of the historic Pennsylvania Avenue, takes its diners on a culinary journey through Italy with elegant decor surpassed only by authentic mouth-watering Italian masterpieces. During Lunch and Dinner hours, pastas and flavorful sauces simmer while prime meats, poultry, seafood and vegetables roast to treat diners to a little bit of heaven, with a long lasting memory for your taste buds, thanks to the vision of famous chef Vittorio Testa, who has kept alive the Italian culinary tradition for over three decades.

Chef-Owner Vittorio Testa will make you feel like you're dining in his house. The waiters exceed expectations, and the space is garnished with painted tiles and Venetian glass to make every dining occasion a memorable one. There's also Private dining and Outdoor seating when the weather permits.

Top review

BillVIP

Dined 6 days ago

This is our favorite Italian restaurant in the Washington DC.

Bar Pendry

4.3

4.3 (31)

$30 and under

American

Southwest Waterfront

About the restaurant

The unexpected at every turn. Our signature lobby bar is an intimate, richly designed space that evokes the essence of a classic hotel bar with the modern grandeur of today. Finishes are warm and comfortable with an air of refinement, signature drinks are hand-crafted and served with impeccable attention to detail, and spirited gatherings set the scene with conversation, camaraderie and perhaps an extra cocktail. Or two.

Top review

Lily

Dined 7 days ago

Did Boozi-tea with a gf and was incredibly delighted with the entire ambiance and experience. It was such a beautiful way to spend my Saturday and I look forward to joining again soon!

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