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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Washington

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96 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Park at 14th restaurant
1. The Park at 14th
4.8
Exceptional(3006)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 71 times today
The Park at 14th in Downtown D.C. is a top-notch destination for seafood enthusiasts, offering an exquisite dining experience that showcases the freshest catches with flair and authenticity. Reviewers rave about the "jumbo shrimp with cilantro goodness" and claim it's "amazing," while the "calamari better than it should have been" highlights the skillful preparation of each dish. With a lively atmosphere and attentive service, diners are consistently impressed with the quality and presentation of their meals. "The food was surprisingly good," one patron exclaimed, making The Park at 14th a must-visit for seafood lovers seeking both flavor and finesse.
A photo of Proper 21 - F Street restaurant
2. Proper 21 - F Street
4.1
Excellent(930)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 18 times today
Proper 21, brought to DC from the New York City restaurateurs Rob Zahn and Will Strozier that own Manhattan Proper and Proper West, opened in early October 2016. Located at 1319 F Street NW, Proper 21 is a high end sports bar serving All American classics with a gourmet twist. Proper 21 is the third location of NIEUW Group Inc. Like its predecessors, located in New York City, Proper 21 serves contemporary American cuisine. The space maintains the modern aesthetic and New York style of the Manhattan locations, which have best been described as Tom Ford meets Thomas Edison. The restaurant provides the best audio & visual for sports, corporate functions, nightlife and other events. Proper 21 requests reservations be made 45 minutes in advance.
A photo of Cafe Du Parc restaurant
3. Cafe Du Parc
4.3
Awesome(2595)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 30 times today
Cafe Du Parc, nestled in the heart of Washington, D.C., within the historic Willard InterContinental, offers a delightful French American dining experience that echoes the charm of a Parisian café. This restaurant is renowned for its authentic French cuisine, with dishes that transport diners straight to France, like the "as good as if eating it in Paris" Onion Soup. Located conveniently between the White House and the U.S. Capitol, it provides a perfect spot for both locals and visitors. Diners frequently praise the "wonderful food, great service," and the outdoor terrace offers an idyllic setting for al fresco dining.
A photo of Willard Holiday Brunch restaurant
4. Willard Holiday Brunch
4.6
Exceptional(93)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 1 time today
Join us at Willard InterContinental Washington, D.C. for a special Easter Brunch on Sunday, April 20. You will be seated in the famed Willard and Crystal Ballrooms, the two most iconic rooms in the hotel. Seating will be offered at 11:00 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 2:00 p.m., and 2:30 p.m., with a two-hour limit.Enjoy this scrumptious presentation of epicurean delights created by Executive Chef Gyo Santa and Willard’s culinary team. This year’s highlights include the Seafood Display and Avocado Toast and Lox Station, a carving station featuring Roasted Herb-Marinated Prime Rib, Dill-Crusted Cedar Plank Roasted Salmon, and Boneless Leg of Lamb Roast, plus all the spring-inspired side dishes. Rest assured, the little ones can enjoy the tot-friendly staples from fresh fruit to chicken fingers and mini-cheeseburgers. $195 per adult | Includes bottomless Mimosa, Bellini, and Bloody Mary.$85 per child (5-12 years of age)All prices are subject to a 24% service charge and sales tax.
A photo of Bobby Van's Grill - New York Ave. restaurant
5. Bobby Van's Grill - New York Ave.
4.4
Awesome(2433)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 25 times today
Bobby Van's Grill on New York Ave is a beacon of authentic American cuisine in downtown Washington, DC. Known for its "first-rate, dry-aged steaks" and exceptional seafood, this restaurant has earned a loyal following who rave about its "quality food and service." The experience is elevated by an "exceptional professional wait staff," many of whom have been part of the team for over 15 years, ensuring a consistently memorable dining experience. With the largest private dining space in DC, including the stunning Atrium for events, Bobby Van's Grill is a "must-visit" for anyone seeking genuine American hospitality and flavors.
A photo of Sax restaurant
6. Sax
4.3
Awesome(1253)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Penn Quarter
SAX is the only East Coast modern Supper Club, serving up reinvented New American cuisine with a variety of seafood, steak entrees and unique craft cocktails alongside continuous live entertainment including choreographed dance sets, aerialists, pole ballet and contortionists. SAX also transforms late night into DC's hottest nightclub/lounge with live DJs, entertainment and VIP bottle service.Reservation cancellation or decrease in party size less than 24 hours before your event is subject to a fee of $15 per person and will be charged to the provided credit card. SAX can only hold your reservation for 15 minutes after it has passed, if no guests have checked in, it is considered a no-show with the $15 per person fee.SAX is your perfect special occasion celebration destination whether a birthday or bachelorette party, holiday or corporate party, or private event space.Valentines Day the minimum spending requirement per couple is $200, anything over 2 people will be $75 per person
A photo of Spotted Zebra restaurant
7. Spotted Zebra
3.8
Excellent(11)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 3 times today
WE ARE THE SPOTTED ZEBRAMany ask about our name, well it is whimsical, and one might say esoteric, and derives from a misquote by a prominent former US Senator from Tennessee, who confidently proclaimed, "A zebra does not change its spots". In this new DC hot-SPOT, we shine a tongue-in-cheek SPOT-light on the contradictory, and often irreverent and humorous words from politics. They are weaved into the names of dishes and cocktails and found on the top of tables, the bar, and people's minds.
A photo of Michele’s restaurant
8. Michele’s
3.9
Excellent(300)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • West Loop
Booked 4 times today
Michele’s in West Loop, Washington, is a shining example of exquisite Contemporary American cuisine. Under the helm of MICHELIN-starred Chef Matt Baker, this restaurant showcases a menu that’s both “delicious and of high quality,” making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts. The dishes here are a delightful blend of seasonal and serious culinary expertise, yet maintain a playful and accessible touch. Guests rave about everything from the “crazy delicious” desserts to the “perfectly cooked” salmon and trout. Whether you're there for a lively brunch or a romantic date night, Michele’s promises an outstanding dining experience that you’ll want to revisit again and again.
A photo of Bresca restaurant
9. Bresca
4.5
Awesome(930)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • U Street Corridor
Booked 32 times today
Bresca, located in the lively U Street Corridor of Washington, is a beacon of authentic French cuisine, skillfully blending traditional techniques with contemporary flair. Diners rave about the exquisite "balance of flavors" in each dish, with the tasting menu being a particular highlight that "simply does not miss." The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in its use of the finest seasonal ingredients, creating dishes that are both innovative and deeply rooted in French culinary tradition. Guests are treated to a dining experience that is "easily one of the best meals" they've ever had, complemented by impeccable service and a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. This makes Bresca a must-visit for those seeking a true taste of France in the heart of Washington.
A photo of Tabard Inn restaurant
10. Tabard Inn
4.7
Exceptional(3862)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Dupont Circle
Booked 54 times today
Tabard Inn in Dupont Circle, Washington, offers an exceptional Continental dining experience that stands out for its "beautifully plated and served" dishes. Renowned for its inviting ambiance and historic charm, the restaurant has been delighting guests since 1922. The culinary expertise of Executive Chef Matthew Zafrir, who has a prestigious background in D.C.'s fine dining scene, ensures that every meal is a "unique and special experience." Guests rave about the "amazing scallops, pork chop," and other Continental favorites that make this spot "one of the best restaurants in DC." Whether for a special occasion or a casual meal, Tabard Inn promises "delicious food, friendly staff, and a comfortable atmosphere."
‘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
From verified diners like you
  • YW71VIP
    Charlotte •10 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Our dining experience at Bobby Van’s was wonderful. Matthew was an attentive server. And the food was exceptional. The bread was hot and fresh from the oven, my filet diablo was cooked perfectly, the salmon was flavorful, and the crab and corn soup was savory and delicious. I had been to this restaurant before for a business dinner and decided to bring my family. It did not disappoint either visit- an excellent dining experience both times. We will definitely return!
    More info
    Bobby Van's Grill - New York Ave.Price: Expensive• Steakhouse• Downtown
    •
    4.4
  • Sean
    Philadelphia County •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    The food was delicious the Mimosas was lit the music was great and the service was wonderful definitely a place to go to again.
    More info
    The Park at 14thPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown
    •
    4.8
  • Rachel
    1 review
    4.0
    Dined on Mar 1, 2025
    Server attentive to allergy concerns. Food was very fresh.
    More info
    Proper 21 - F StreetPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Downtown
    •
    4.1
  • Farah
    Washington, D.C. Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 25, 2024
    We had a wonderful time at Christmas Brunch. The staff was so welcoming and attentive. We really enjoyed all of the food selections. Thank you for a lovely Christmas.
    More info
    Willard Holiday BrunchPrice: Very Expensive• American• Downtown
    •
    4.6
  • OpenTable Diner
    Baltimore / Maryland •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 18, 2021
    The only thing that turned me off was that every table around me were greeted by a server or performers. We had to ask for someone to come and explain to us how to order and what would make our first visit more enjoyable. Now that I’ve “experienced” the restaurant, I will know what to do and not waste 45 minutes trying to figure out how to order and not miss more performances. Since time was limited to two hours, I was worried that we would not have enough time to eat or drink. After placing an order we waited an additional 30+ minutes for our first drink to arrive then our food. Wasn’t sure if we had enough time to order a second drink, which we did but had to drink it fast as our two hour dining experience was over.
    More info
    SaxPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Penn Quarter
    •
    4.3

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