Best French Restaurants in Columbia Heights / Brightwood

33 restaurants available nearby

1. Fraiche

Price: Expensive

• French • Columbia Heights

Fraiche (French for Fresh) is a fresh take on culinary fusion with inspiration from multiple cultures (including French, Cajun/Southern American, and Caribbean). This is also a fresh take on the historic architecture of the venue, which was once a theater. Fraiche is designed to be a non-pretentious culinary destination with a nod to upscale dining without the stuffiness. The menu is constructed in a way that takes approachable and recognizable food and elevates it, with no flavor left behind! Since the beginning of time, food has brought people together and that is our ultimate goal with this concept.

A photo of La Grande Boucherie - DC restaurant

2. La Grande Boucherie - DC

4.4

Awesome(1266)

Price: Very Expensive

• French • Washington

Booked 260 times today

Nestled just a block away from the White House at 699 14th Street NW, La Grande Boucherie is a beacon of Steakhouse excellence in Washington D.C. Celebrated for its impeccably cooked steaks, the restaurant offers an exquisite meat program that shines through dishes like the "perfectly cooked and seasoned" steak frites. Patrons often rave about the "amazing" filet mignon au poivre and the Australian ribeye, noting them as "cooked to perfection." The grand Art Nouveau style venue enhances the dining experience, making every meal feel special and elevated. Reviews consistently highlight the stellar service and vibrant atmosphere, making La Grande Boucherie a must-visit for steak lovers in the heart of D.C.

3. Chez Billy Sud

4.8

Exceptional(2962)

Price: Moderate

• French • Georgetown

Booked 29 times today

Chez Billy Sud, nestled in the historic neighborhood of Georgetown, Washington, D.C., is renowned for its authentic Wine Bar, Bar à Vin. This charming spot stands out for its "great wine selection" and has been hailed for its "great advice re what to order," ensuring a perfectly paired wine experience with every meal. Visitors frequently rave about the ambiance and the exceptional food, but it is the wine that completes the dining experience, offering "good value propositions in terms of wine" that beautifully complement the classic French fare. Whether you are a wine aficionado or a casual drinker, Chez Billy Sud’s Wine Bar offers a cozy getaway to indulge in a meticulously curated wine list that promises to enhance your meal and elevate your evening.

4. Bresca

4.7

Exceptional(869)

Price: Expensive

• French • U Street Corridor

Booked 29 times today

Bresca, nestled in the vibrant U Street Corridor of Washington, DC, is a beacon of contemporary French cuisine. The restaurant has garnered glowing accolades for its innovative approach to French dining, skillfully blending Eastern and Western culinary traditions under the guidance of Chef Ryan Ratino. Diners rave about the exceptional quality of dishes such as the Potato Pierogi and Diver Scallop, highlighting the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients which "sing of summer." The atmosphere is described as a perfect mix of cozy bistro charm and refined elegance, making every visit memorable. With accolades like "best duck I’ve ever had" and experiences that exceed expectations, Bresca stands out as a pinnacle of culinary excellence and creativity.

5. Petite Cerise

4.7

Exceptional(138)

Price: Expensive

• French • Mount Vernon Square

Booked 20 times today

Part neighborhood café, part energetic bistro, Petite Cerise is located in a bright and lively historic corner space in Shaw/Mount Vernon Triangle. Petite Cerise features separate à la carte menus for brunch, lunch, and dinner. In addition, Petite Cerise has a Coffee Counter open Tuesday - Friday opening at 8am serving classic coffee and espresso preparations, housemade pastries, and other breakfast items to go or sit down.Dinner offers both an à la carte menu along with a Prix Fixe option. The focus in the evening is to craft unique and innovative dishes utilizing the very best ingredients within the Mid-Atlantic region and beyond skillfully prepared through a French lens.If you decide to join us for a morning coffee, quick mid-day bite, stretch out your lunch over a glass of wine, or gather with friends for an indulgent and creative dinner, we invite you here to celebrate and enjoy.

6. La Chaumiere

4.9

Exceptional(4828)

Price: Expensive

• French • Georgetown

Booked 15 times today

La Chaumière in Georgetown, Washington, is a celebrated gem among Contemporary French cuisine enthusiasts, boasting 48 years of culinary excellence. Known for its enchanting ambiance reminiscent of a French country inn, the restaurant offers a delightful array of dishes that blend traditional flavors with modern creativity. From the acclaimed housemade Boudin Blanc to the classic Grand Marnier soufflé, each dish is crafted to perfection. La Chaumière has impressively scooped up the "100 Best Restaurants" award 29 times since 1978, underscoring its commitment to quality and authenticity. Reviewers rave about its "exquisite blend of traditional and innovative dishes" and consistently "impeccable service," making it a must-visit for an authentic Contemporary French dining experience right in the heart of Georgetown.

7. La Piquette

4.8

Exceptional(2940)

Price: Expensive

• French • Cleveland Park

Booked 17 times today

Nestled in the charming neighborhood of Cleveland Park, Washington, La Piquette is celebrated for its authentic French cuisine that transports diners straight to France with every bite. Executive Chef Francis Layrle's commitment to farm-raised, seasonal ingredients ensures a menu that's as fresh as it is delightful. Patrons rave about the "superb" short ribs and the "best duck confit" over a bed of lentils, praising dishes for their perfection and authenticity. The ambiance of this neighborhood bistrot is consistently described as "fun, simple, and delicious," making every visit memorable. With accolades like "the food is always WONDERFUL" and service that is "gracious and efficient," La Piquette stands out as a gem for those seeking genuine French fare in D.C.

8. Et Voila

4.8

Exceptional(3897)

Price: Expensive

• French • Palisades Northwest

Booked 40 times today

Nestled in the charming Palisades neighborhood of Northwest Washington, Et Voila stands out as a beacon of authentic Belgian cuisine. Under the expert helm of Chef Claudio Pirollo, this cozy bistro has been a favorite for 15 years, blending contemporary Belgian and French flavors that delight diners. Guests rave about the "always great" food, highlighting dishes like mussels in three broths, steak tartare, and the decadent chocolate mousse. The praise extends to the ambiance and service, with one guest noting, "We had a fantastic birthday celebration! Top notch service and excellent food and wine." Et Voila continues to provide an extraordinary dining experience, promising a warm welcome and a menu that's both innovative and true to its Belgian roots, making every visit memorable.

A photo of Medium Rare - Cleveland Park restaurant

9. Medium Rare - Cleveland Park

4.6

Exceptional(2114)

Price: Moderate

• French • Cleveland Park

Booked 34 times today

At Medium Rare in Cleveland Park, Washington, the essence of American cuisine is celebrated with unparalleled flair and a commitment to quality that has consistently earned it the Diner's Choice Award for 12 consecutive years. Known for its exceptional $28.95 prix fixe dining experience, Medium Rare serves up a feast of prime, dry-aged steak and hand-cut fries that leave diners raving about the "perfectly cooked" meat and "delicious" sauce. The glowing reviews highlight not just the food, but the "fun, upbeat atmosphere" and "attentive" service, making every meal memorable. Whether it's the bottomless brunch or the meticulously prepared dinners, Medium Rare is a testament to authentic American dining at its best.

10. Cafe Du Parc

4.4

Awesome(2560)

Price: Expensive

• French • Downtown

Booked 38 times today

Café du Parc, a Parisian-inspired gem in the heart of Washington, D.C., offers an authentic café experience reminiscent of a sidewalk café in Europe. Nestled steps from the National Mall, this café provides not only a prime location but also serves top-notch coffee and pastries that transport you straight to France. Patrons rave about the "perfectly flaky delicious almond croissant and ham and cheese croissant," which are both splendid highlights of their dining experience. The café's atmosphere is praised as "welcoming and cozy," making it a preferred spot for both locals and visitors. It's the attention to traditional French culinary details and the bustling, yet inviting ambiance that makes Café du Parc a standout destination for café cuisine lovers looking for quality and authenticity in the capital city.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

L
Laura
Washington, D.C. Area •8 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Went for friends Christmas dinner and it was great! Steak frites cooked perfectly, cheese board was excellent, crème brûlée dessert was tasty.
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La Grande Boucherie - DCPrice: Very Expensive• French• Washington
•
4.4
J
Jennifer
Tampa / Central Florida West •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Absolutely loved the entire experience. Wonderful ambience, outstanding wine, escargot to die for, the salmon…light and flaky, with a potato crust and lemon beurre blanc sauce that was utterly out of this world. Cannot wait to return!
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Chez Billy SudPrice: Moderate• French• Georgetown
•
4.8
N
NedraVIP
Washington, D.C. Area •161 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
One of our best dining experiences ever - and we go out alot. Just what you want from a restaurant. The food was outrageously good. Everything ! Presented beautifully. Not rushed. The service was outstanding. James was the ultimate grand server. There when needed. Explained everything. The physical space was interesting - could see the kitchen. And it was relatively quiet !! Justin - the manager - was super helpful with wine suggestions , and he generated a warm welcome when we entered. The concept of sharing enhanced the experience with our friends. And did I mention the food was super good. We will be raving about this place to everyone we know. A true grand dining experience ! Thanks to all that made that happen.
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Petite CerisePrice: Expensive• French• Mount Vernon Square
•
4.7
S
SamVIP
New York City •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
Another wonderful meal at Brasca, every time my girlfriend and I decide to go here it is beyond incredible. Alexandra was great and our service was perfect all around. We will be back.
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BrescaPrice: Expensive• Contemporary French / American• U Street Corridor
•
4.7

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Columbia Heights / Brightwood

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Best French Restaurants in Columbia Heights / Brightwood

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33 restaurants available nearby

1. Fraiche

2. La Grande Boucherie - DC

3. Chez Billy Sud

4. Bresca

5. Petite Cerise

6. La Chaumiere

7. La Piquette

8. Et Voila

9. Medium Rare - Cleveland Park

10. Cafe Du Parc

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