Best Restaurants for Quiet Conversation in Washington DC

The Tabard Inn is one of my favorite spots in DC. I especially love bringing out of town friends for a relaxed cozy setting to catch up and feel at home.

Great food and excellent service in a beautiful location.

Kingbird restaurant is an absolute gem, especially for anyone heading to a Kennedy Center performance. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, striking the perfect balance between elegance and comfort. Our server was exceptional—not only attentive but also incredibly thoughtful about our schedule. They ensured that each course was perfectly timed, so we could enjoy a relaxed meal without worrying about missing our show. They even recommended the best walking route to the Kennedy Center, saving us at least five minutes—something we greatly appreciated! The food was outstanding. Every dish we tried was a delightful blend of flavors, showcasing the restaurant’s mastery of Italian cuisine. The fresh pasta was a particular highlight, cooked to perfection and paired with rich, satisfying sauces. The portion sizes were just right: filling but not overwhelming, leaving us satisfied without feeling uncomfortable. To top it all off, the desserts were truly amazing—a sweet conclusion to a fantastic meal. Whether you’re stopping in for a special occasion or pairing it with an evening at the Kennedy Center, Kingbird offers a dining experience you won’t forget.

As always, the Lafayette is the best place for breakfast, standing well above all others for its accommodating wait staff (today it was Kenny), pleasant and relaxing atmosphere, well prepared meals, and the wam greetings that welcome you when you arrive at the host’s desk.

Outstanding experience in terms of food, service, and ambiance. Definitely to be repeated. However, one small disappointment was the message about a 20% extra to support the salaries of the workers. Why not just pay them a living wage? We can determine the tip. You have excellent service. We would be pleased to pay.