Best Restaurants for Outdoor Dining in Downtown

Delicious and great service! The bottomless mimosas and brunch special for 40.00 is a great deal.

Delicious. Green chili chicken was amazing, sorry I had no way to keep leftovers! Large portion. Kale was delightful. Thalis for my newbie husband was raved over. Excellent, fun service.

Having been to Italy recently, I found the food to be "authentically Italian" -- not overly seasoned but very flavorful. Portions were perfect -- not too large. Pasta was al dente, which is not common here in the U.S. Will definitely go back.

Dauphine’s is an absolute gem in Washington, DC, blending the vibrant flavors of New Orleans Creole cuisine with a contemporary twist. From the moment you walk in, the warm and welcoming ambiance sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. The food is nothing short of outstanding. Their menu offers a variety of small and large plates, allowing you to sample a wide range of their creative dishes—including a fantastic raw bar. Every bite bursts with flavor, showing their dedication to both tradition and innovation. The bar menu is equally impressive, with options for every palate. What truly sets Dauphine’s apart is the exceptional service. The wait staff is attentive, striking the perfect balance between being available and giving you space to enjoy your meal. The manager stopping by after each course to ensure we were happy was a thoughtful touch that elevated the experience even further. If you’re visiting DC, I can’t recommend Dauphine’s enough. Whether you’re a lover of Creole cuisine or just looking for an incredible meal, this restaurant is a must-visit. Five stars all the way!

Opaline is a great choice if you want a lively after-work spot to meet. Tile floor and otherwise hard surfaces make the noise level pretty high. Bit of an own goal on my part for making a reservation to meet my sister and her husband for dinner here, as the restaurant wasn't really suited to a quiet evening of conversation. (It says "Bar" right there in the name, so I guess Reading is Fundamental.) We actually considered going somewhere else but glad we stayed because the food and service were both quite good. A fresh take on Caesar salad, a delicious just-right pappardelle perfect for a cold evening and a lovely dark chocolate cake for dessert.