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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in Southwest Waterfront

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52 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Reverie restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(36)
Price: Very Expensive
• Seafood • Georgetown
Booked 5 times today
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. Please allow 2.5 hours for this experience.Our tasting menu is offered at $245 per guest exclusive of beverage, service charge, taxes, or gratuities. Corkage is offered at $75 per 750ml.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.
A photo of DAIKAYA 2F THE IZAKAYA restaurant
4.5
Awesome(2135)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Penn Quarter
Booked 32 times today
Please be advised that the reservation is for the Izakaya on the second floor and not the ramen shop on the first floor. The ramen menu is not available at the Izakaya. The Izakaya, located on the second floor of Daikaya, is a casual restaurant that serves Japanese comfort food to accompany a diverse selection of bar offerings. The izakaya experience is perfect for after work, before a big night out, as a full supper, or for late-night bites with friends. The cuisine is freestyle and adaptive in nature. Each izakaya in Japan puts its own touch on its menu items. The plates are typically small so that one can sample many different items.
A photo of Sixty Vines DC - Washington Circle restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(258)
Price: Moderate
• Wine Bar • Washington
Booked 81 times today
Often referred to as “the wine lover's restaurant,” Sixty Vines delivers simple, yet flavorful cuisine paired perfectly with 60 wines on its sustainable tap system. Every plate and pour is designed to inspire adventure and discovery of wine culture reimagined. Guests are encouraged to experience abundance over shared plates, enjoy wine “pinkies down” and to visit for brunch, lunch and dinner. Signature menu items include charcuterie boards, seasonal proteins, wood fired pizzas and innovative pasta dishes all inspired by ingredients found in wine country.
A photo of a.kitchen+bar D.C. restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(88)
Price: Expensive
• American • West End
Booked 11 times today
Located in the West End neighborhood of Washington DC, James Beard Foundation Award-winning Restaurateur Ellen Yin's High Street Hospitality Group brings their acclaimed Philadelphia restaurant, a.kitchen+bar, to the nation's capital. Exploring the seasonality of the Chesapeake, the menu is a culmination of hyper-seasonal American small plates and an acclaimed natural wine and beverage program.Join us from 4-6PM at the bar for Golden Hour. Our team has thoughtfully curated a selection of off-menu cocktails and bites, perfectly paired to indulge you after a long day. Immaculate vibes, soulful tunes and our talented team await. We look forward to welcoming you.
A photo of San Lorenzo restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(325)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Shaw
Booked 16 times today
Come in and feel transported to the streets of Italy. Enjoy light, wholesome dishes - beautiful stucco walls and black and white photos of the chef/owner’s quaint hometown. Chef Massimo believes in creating dishes that honor the heritage and flavors of his native Tuscany. The magic of this cuisine is the exceptional preparation — fresh, simple ingredients paired with unique herbs and seasonings for a taste that’s anything but simple. With over 30 years of culinary training - Chef Massimo delivers homemade pastas, sauces, Florentine steak, veal, lamb, fresh fish and exceptional risotto. Stay tuned for the not-to-be missed tasting menus offered nightly. Also inquire about the unique communal wine lunch experiences on Saturday afternoons that can be booked only directly with management because they book up quickly. If you enjoy dining in Chef Massimo’s ‘San Lorenzo’ home - know he will also come to your home for special occasions or even travel with you within the US and Italy.
A photo of Lincoln - DC restaurant
4.4
Awesome(3409)
Price: Moderate
• American • McPherson Square
Booked 10 times today
Founded in 2011 our seasonal menu features comfort food with a twist. LINCOLN pays tribute to one of the greatest US Presidents, with nods to many of his favorite foods including our signature chicken pot pie & another star on the menu, our kale salad. The menu is focused but varietal. Our cocktails are truly one-of-a-kind. Our barkeeps have created one of the city’s thoughtful bar programs highlighted by infused bourbons and DC's first moonshine-list served in antique-style copper cups. Our patio is open all year-round, offering a relaxed, urban landscape. Don't miss our butcher cut NY Strip or the city's best Mac & Cheese. LINCOLN is the right place for your next private event with many options for private dining from 10 to 200. Original paintings & distinctive interior design by homegrown artist, Maggie O’Neill. LINCOLN is your destination for Lunch, happy hour, dinner or brunch. We are open Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Easter & Mother's Day for your special celebration.
A photo of The Sovereign restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(687)
Price: Expensive
• Belgian • Georgetown
Booked 27 times today
The Sovereign is a Belgian bar & bistro committed to celebrating the rustic cuisine & fabled brewing culture of Belgium. Located in the vibrant Georgetown neighborhood, the Sovereign's kitchen is led by Executive Chef Andres Zuluaga whose classic, ingredient-driven Belgian dishes draw on French, German & Dutch cooking techniques & traditions. The Sovereign features 50 drafts & more than 350 bottles meticulously curated by Beer Director, Greg Engert.
A photo of Morton's The Steakhouse - Downtown DC restaurant
4.5
Awesome(2212)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Downtown
Booked 21 times today
Morton's The Steakhouse in DC is definitely worth the drive! With a consistent high standard, the steakhouse has been a hit with locals and visitors alike. Reviewers rave about the 'excellent service' and 'spectacular food' - particularly the USDA prime-aged steak. The ambience is also frequently praised, with a 'beautiful setting' and a 'muted ambiance'. Whether it's for business or pleasure, Morton's is a reliable and dignified spot for a great dining experience.
A photo of Wagamama Clarendon restaurant
4.4
Awesome(118)
Price: Expensive
• Asian • Arlington
Booked 25 times today
just one block from the clarendon metro, experience a modern twist on classic asian cuisine. dive into signature ramens, noodles, salads, craft cocktails + fresh juices for lunch and dinner. enjoy our vibrant ambiance that embodies the equalitarian wagamama way, nourishing both body + soul
A photo of The Mayflower Restaurant, Lounge & Garden restaurant
4.1
Excellent(120)
Price: Moderate
• Mediterranean • Dupont Circle
The Mayflower restaurant opened in the same building that used to house a prominent Prohibition-era speakeasy of the same name. The new two-level restaurant and lounge rounds fills out a complex at 1223 Connecticut Avenue NW.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Deborah
    Chicago / Illinois •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Feb 18, 2025
    Great food, nice menu options, appreciated the nice service
    More info
    Smokecraft Modern BarbecuePrice: Moderate• Barbecue• Arlington
    4.4
  • ErisVIP
    Washington, D.C. Area •15 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Feb 16, 2025
    We travel from Potomac, MD to eat at Mala Tang. The food is authentic, delicious and an experience. We love to do the hot pot when we have a large group as we can all share the proteins and veggies to put inside. When we are a smaller group we love the dry pot. The vegetables they offer are very fresh and unique. The service is always top notch and the price is very reasonable. We can't wait to go back!
    More info
    Mala TangPrice: Expensive• Asian• Arlington
    4.4
  • JordanVIP
    Scranton / Poconos •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 1, 2024
    Went on a slow, cold Sunday afternoon so it wasn’t not busy at all. For some reason, though, our server was difficult to find throughout our meal. Food/drinks were really good, & they had fun holiday themed drink decorations. Definitely bundle up though if you’re seated on the patio.
    More info
    Tokyo PearlPrice: Moderate• Japanese• Dupont Circle
    4.2
  • Dan
    Sacramento / Sacramento Valley •9 reviews
    4.0
    Dined on Sep 7, 2024
    Service and flavors were very good. Only issue that we experienced was that we had 3 different entrees that had chicken. Though flavors were great, the chicken in all 3 dishes were very dry.
    More info
    Himalayan Heritage Restaurant & BarPrice: Moderate• Indian• Adams Morgan
    4.3
  • Michael
    Washington, D.C. Area •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Jul 30, 2024
    A limited but delicious menu. Full bar. Pleasant inside and outside. But, in the evening, you're going for the music, and it was great July 30--Gabe Koempel and combo.
    More info
    Wild DaysPrice: Moderate• American• Mount Vernon
    4.1

Discover best worth the drive restaurants in Southwest Waterfront

Discover the culinary treasures that are 'worth the drive' in the vibrant Southwest Waterfront area of Washington, D.C. This picturesque locale offers an array of dining experiences that are sure to satisfy any palate, each uniquely blending ambiance with exquisite culinary offerings. From waterfront dining spots with stunning views to cozy, tucked-away eateries, the restaurants here promise memorable meals that justify the journey. Diners can expect a variety of cuisines, reflecting the diverse cultural influences of the area, all served with a commitment to quality and creativity. The dining scene in the Southwest Waterfront is dynamic and inviting, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers. Whether you're seeking a romantic evening out, a family gathering, or a casual meal with friends, these establishments provide not just food, but a truly enriching dining experience. These hand-picked restaurants not only meet the mark but exceed expectations, making each worth the drive for a special dining adventure.

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