Best Cozy Restaurants in Waterfront

220 restaurants available nearby

1. SHIA Restaurant

4.7

Exceptional(22)

Price: Very Expensive

• Korean • Washington

SHIA (shee-uh) is a modern Korean fine dining restaurant in Washington, D.C., dedicated to sustainability, innovation, and cultural storytelling. Our tasting menu-only experience spotlights the intersection of local agriculture and premium Hansik ingredients, using fresh, seasonal elements with minimal manipulation to honor the environment. As a non-profit restaurant, SHIA is more than just a dining destination; it’s a platform for tackling key challenges in the restaurant industry, from environmental responsibility to fair labor practices and culinary heritage preservation.**Please Note: Chef Lee's appearance is not guaranteed, and his availability is not given to the team or guests.**

A photo of Caruso's Grocery - DC restaurant

2. Caruso's Grocery - DC

4.8

Exceptional(1157)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Capitol Hill

Booked 24 times today

Please note that we are not offering Restaurant Week at our DC location. Located at 914 14th Street SE in Washington, DC.Caruso’s Grocery is modeled after the classic, Italian-American "red sauce" joint. You know the one: red banquettes, a killer chicken parmesan, Sinatra pouring through the speakers. If you’re looking for modern interpretations of a chef's take on the classics, you won’t find them here. A joint venture from Neighborhood Restaurant Group and Partner Matthew Adler.

3. Olio e Più - DC

new

4.5

Awesome(103)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Washington

Booked 81 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.

4. Zaytinya - DC

4.7

Exceptional(19299)

Price: Expensive

• Mediterranean • Penn Quarter

Booked 116 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.

5. Old Ebbitt Grill

4.8

Exceptional(29566)

Price: Moderate

• American • Downtown

Booked 207 times today

Founded in 1856, Old Ebbitt Grill is Washington, DC's oldest saloon and a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. Situated in the heart of the city, just steps from The White House, this historic landmark offers a timeless blend of classic American cuisine and unparalleled hospitality. Old Ebbitt Grill promises a memorable visit filled with a warm ambiance and a seasonal menu spanning from freshly shucked oysters to house-made pastas and perfectly prepared steaks & chops. From the Rooftop Terrace to the Atrium or Cabinet Room, Ebbitt's private dining spaces are ideal for celebrations ranging from small and intimate to grand and stylish.

6. Limani - DC

4.5

Awesome(895)

Price: Expensive

• Mediterranean • Southwest Waterfront

Booked 35 times today

Welcome to Limani at the District Wharf, redefining waterfront dining. Enjoy stunning multi-level views and a culinary journey from timeless classics to innovative dishes, emphasizing fresh, seasonal ingredients and globally sourced fish and seafood. Our approach combines modern and traditional culinary methods, supported by a diverse beverage selection, including fine wines, champagnes, and a dynamic cocktail program with non-alcoholic options. Experience upscale dining with white tablecloths on our first and second floors, or embrace the open air on our 190-seat third-floor Terrace. Here, enjoy the same exquisite menu in a lively, open-air setting with a fresh breeze, string lights, and panoramic water views creating a casual upbeat ambiance. Our Mediterranean-inspired dishes promise an exceptional dining experience. This is Limani, your table awaits.

7. The Dabney

4.7

Exceptional(245)

Price: Very Expensive

• American • Shaw

Booked 12 times today

Located in historic Blagden Alley in D.C.'s Shaw neighborhood since 2015, The Dabney continues to pay tribute to the wonderful farmers, watermen, and purveyors of the mid-Atlantic region whom provide some of the best and most unique products in the country. We celebrate these ingredients by preparing them in a large wood burning hearth which is the centerpiece of our open kitchen. The current dining room experience is an 8-course tasting menu honoring the Mid-Atlantic's bounty. We offer an additional 3-course experience at our bar and bar area tables. Walk-in guests are welcome to enjoy the bar area as well.The Dabney has been awarded one Michelin star every year since 2017, James Beard Foundation Best Chef Mid-Atlantic for Chef Jeremiah Langhorne in 2018, and Washingtonian Magazine's #1 restaurant in 2023. At this time we are unable to accommodate severe allium and dairy allergies as well as vegan and vegetarian diets.

A photo of La Grande Boucherie - DC restaurant

8. La Grande Boucherie - DC

4.5

Awesome(1085)

Price: Very Expensive

• French • Washington

Booked 341 times today

Located at 699 14th Street on the coveted corner of 14th and G Street NW, La Grande Boucherie is situated on the most high-profile street in Washington D.C., just one block away from the White House. The restaurant is built in elegant and ornamental Art Nouveau style, evoking the sense of optimism from the turn of the 20th century. The brasserie’s menu features both classic and modern French dishes, with focus on the meat program, raw bar and extravagant large-format meats, ideal for sharing and celebrating. Mahogany wood and glass partitions divide the gargantuan space to create intimate dining experiences. These pieces are adorned in gilded accents and uniquely curved arches inspired by the 20th-century Art Nouveau movement of Paris. The main dining room highlights a massive curved bar with a metal top imported from Paris, a signature piece of Boucherie.

9. The Park at 14th

4.7

Exceptional(2894)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary American • Downtown

Booked 24 times today

The Park at 14th is a restaurant, lounge, and event venue on four floors overlooking Franklin Square in Downtown D.C. Offering a sense of timeless elegance, beautiful views, and a warm and welcoming interior, The Park at 14th is the perfect place dining, socializing, and hosting your next event. We invite you to join us. For reservations over 10 people, please TEXT (202) 550-0300

A photo of Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley - DC restaurant

10. Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley - DC

4.2

Awesome(1579)

Price: Expensive

• Regional American (Southern) • Downtown

Booked 78 times today

K+K WELCOMES THE CONGRESSIONAL BLACK CAUCUS!!! Created to deliver the best in food, drinks and vibes to Washington DC, Kitchen + Kocktails is here to please. A dynamic comfort food restaurant at its core, Kitchen + Kocktails will focus on nicely plated comfort foods, including flavored fried chicken and lobster tails, shrimp and grits, creative waffles and other southern classics made with a twist. Parties of 9+ call: 312-513-3606 between the hours of 8am to 7pm. If you are past the 15 minute grace period your reservation will be forfeited then you will be accommodated as a walk-in.Proper Dress Attire Required.• No Tank Tops• No Athletic Slides or Flip Flops (Regardless of brand)• No Crocs• No Explicit Clothing• No Sagging• No Revealing Attire • No Jerseys• No Hoods, Durags, Stocking Caps, etc on While Dining**NO OUTSIDE FOOD/CAKES/DRINKS**While we do recognize special circumstances, it is solely at our team’s discretion to allow exceptions.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

J
Jing
Washington, D.C. Area •1 review
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Spaghetti alla carbonara Fritto Primavera Pumpkin pie and an ice cream for Thanksgiving special Super recommended! The environment and service are fabulous
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Olio e Più - DCPrice: Expensive• Italian• Washington
•
4.5
Z
Zumivip
Washington, D.C. Area •5 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Everything about this restaurant was delicious and thoughtfully made. Even though Chef Edward Lee was not there in person, the Chef that was cooking did an amazing job because the food was very flavorful. This restaurant has exceeded my expectations and I am glad I did not give up on making the reservations.
More info
SHIA RestaurantPrice: Very Expensive• Korean• Washington
•
4.7
R
Rachel
Los Angeles •17 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days 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
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Zaytinya - DCPrice: Expensive• Mediterranean• Penn Quarter
•
4.7
O
Omarvip
Hawaii •43 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Wow, as advertised, great host, server, manager!!!! The food we ordered was all superb!!! Crab cake to start, wife ordered the meatloaf, I had the short rib stroganoff. We had reservations and thankful we thought ahead, the 1330 lunch rush was visible on the weekend. I ordered a bloody mary, only portion of the meal which I thought lacked attention. Manager passed by the table and was very nice!!! Thank you for the Carrot cake, it was phenomenal. Highly would recommend and glad we came!!!
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Old Ebbitt GrillPrice: Moderate• American• Downtown
•
4.8
K
KHESHA
Washington, D.C. Area •10 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
The ambience was great and the food was magnificent. The waiter was very attentive and brought out samples of wine.
More info
Caruso's Grocery - DCPrice: Expensive• Italian• Capitol Hill
•
4.8

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Best Cozy Restaurants in Waterfront

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220 restaurants available nearby

1. SHIA Restaurant

2. Caruso's Grocery - DC

3. Olio e Più - DC

4. Zaytinya - DC

5. Old Ebbitt Grill

6. Limani - DC

7. The Dabney

8. La Grande Boucherie - DC

9. The Park at 14th

10. Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley - DC

See what locals rave about

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