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Best Restaurants for Special Occasions in Penn Quarter

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185 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Zaytinya - DC restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(19287)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • Penn Quarter
Booked 255 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.
A photo of Succotash PRIME restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(3850)
Price: Moderate
• American • Penn Quarter
Booked 101 times today
Succotash PRIME is a progressive perspective of classic Southern favorites. James Beard Award winner Edward Lee brings his Korean roots and Southern repertoire to a soulful Southern Steakhouse menu.SUCCOTASH is named after the classic dish that has been a longstanding staple of the Southern table. While many know “Succotash” when they see it, the dish has been interpreted, modified, and passed from generation to generation for centuries. Our “Succotash” is special to us and we invite you to experience the South from our point of view.
A photo of Dirty Habit | The Glass House restaurant
4.4
Awesome(2231)
Price: Moderate
• Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service • Penn Quarter
Booked 36 times today
Dirty Habit DC is a globally inspired New American restaurant & bar in a hip, edgy hotel space with private courtyard space. Just a perfect location for happy hour cocktails, events and private bookings. Open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner and late night bites.
A photo of The Smith – Penn Quarter, Washington, D.C restaurant
4.5
Awesome(3744)
Price: Expensive
• American • Penn Quarter
Booked 148 times today
The Smith is a casual American brasserie with a simple mission — make people happy! We care about every meal and every moment. The menu features bistro classics, seasonal fare, and craft cocktails. Walk in the door and you’re in for a great time. Whether it’s date night, drinks on the town, a big birthday bash, a working lunch, a boozy brunch, or an I-don’t-want-to-cook-tonight night, we’ve got you covered.
A photo of China Chilcano restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(3677)
Price: Expensive
• Peruvian • Penn Quarter
Booked 53 times today
China Chilcano is a unique Peruvian restaurant in Washington, DC led by award-winning chef José Andrés. The restaurant offers a wide array of delicious and innovative dishes, making it a great spot for a good date night or a group outing. Many reviews highlight the exceptional service and beautiful decor, making it a perfect choice for a special occasion. The tasting menu is often recommended and enjoyed by customers.
A photo of Founding Farmers & Distillers DC: Chinatown restaurant
4.4
Awesome(10265)
Price: Moderate
• American • Mount Vernon Square
Booked 115 times today
Walking distance to many of DC’s historic landmarks, Founding Farmers & Distillers offers a diverse menu including dishes inspired by nearby Chinatown and cocktails featuring our in-house distillery, Founding Spirits. Open 365 days a year, our team is passionate about crafting dishes & drinks from scratch with high-quality ingredients from farmers and suppliers we know and trust. Join us for breakfast, lunch, dinner, weekday happy hour, decadent weekend Farmers Market Buffet Brunch, or grab a cup of house-roasted coffee and breakfast treat from our First Bake Cafe. Majority owned by American family farmers, including the more than 50,000 farmers of the North Dakota Farmers Union, our restaurant is guided by a very simple principal: we see and share everything Through The Eyes Of The Farmer.™ We actively care about our guests, our communities, the planet, and the next generation. This all comes together in our everyday
A photo of Centrolina restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2098)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • Penn Quarter
Booked 24 times today
Centrolina is an Italian restaurant and market, locally owned and operated by Chef Amy Brandwein, set in Washington’s CityCenterDC development. The Osteria showcases a seasonally driven menu of authentic and innovative Italian dishes offered for lunch and dinner. Chef Brandwein's menu is inspired from the seasons, Italian regionality and the wide variety of Chef curated product in the adjoining market. The market showcases a selection of imported Italian specialty items along with locally sourced meat, sustainable fish, and produce from local farms. The Centrolina kitchen produces daily hand crafted fresh pasta and sauces, antipasti and entrees available for takeaway. For parties of 7 people or more, we do require a prix-fixe menu, please email caroline@centrolinadc.com for additional information.
A photo of Carmine's - Washington DC restaurant
4.5
Awesome(6510)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Penn Quarter
Booked 110 times today
Carmine's is a family style restaurant offering exceptional value to its guests through the many dishes of Southern Italian cuisine. Restaurateur Artie Cutler crafted Carmine's with a singular vision; bringing his guests abundant portions and making any meal feel like an Italian American wedding feast. Platters of made to order pasta, decadent seafood or meat entrees, and of course homemade desserts are all staples at Carmine's, meant for sharing among friends and family. When great food and wine are supported by friendly and knowledgeable service, the results are magic - we want every day to feel like a Sunday afternoon at Grandma's! We are open for Indoor & Outdoor Dining, Pick-up, Delivery, Catering and Private Parties. Your safety is our priority. DC no longer requires proof of vaccination to dine indoors. Indoor & Outdoor dining are available.
A photo of Clyde's of Gallery Place restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(7573)
Price: Moderate
• American • Downtown
Booked 69 times today
Clyde's of Gallery Place, located in Washington, DC's vibrant Penn Quarter neighborhood adjacent to the Capital One Arena, is a bustling restaurant known for its eclectic American menu and lively atmosphere. The menu offers a diverse selection, from fresh seafood and juicy burgers to seasonal salads and hearty entrees. With its prime location, friendly service, and energetic vibe, Clyde's of Gallery Place is a favorite spot for both casual dining and pre-event gatherings. Across the street from the Smithsonian American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery. Indoor and bar seating available with lunch, dinner, brunch, late night, and raw bar service.
A photo of Tosca restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(4509)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Downtown
Booked 17 times today
Currently open for lunch and dinner. Ristorante Tosca offers the finest in contemporary northern Italian cuisine. Tosca serves Italian cuisine with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients, using a creative approach that respects the great traditions of Tuscan gastronomy. Tosca combines modern style and elegance to create an intimate and comfortable setting. Tosca implements a dress code and proper attire is required. We do not allow athletic wear, shorts, beach attire, tank tops, flip flops, or torn or excessively revealing clothing. We reserve the right to determine if a guest needs to adjust their attire before being seated.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Katie
    Washington, D.C. Area •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    This is truly a one of a kind dining experience in DC. Some of the best service I’ve had. Our server was attentive, but didn’t hover and was so kind. We were able to get great recommendations on both drinks and food options. The beet salad, mushrooms, scallops, and shrimp were beyond delicious and I would highly recommend. For cocktail lovers the 3PM in Istanbul was excellent. We will certainly be going back to enjoy the atmosphere and to eat more of the tapas we were just too full to eat this time around.
    More info
    Zaytinya - DCPrice: Expensive• Mediterranean• Penn Quarter
    4.7
  • Eileen
    Greater Boston •16 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    The Smith is consistently outstanding. We had an awesome meal. The place was packed but our server was attentive. I had the soba noodles and added salmon. It was awesome. The others in my party had the vodka penne and gnocchi and they said it was awesome.
    More info
    The Smith – Penn Quarter, Washington, D.CPrice: Expensive• American• Penn Quarter
    4.5
  • Renee
    Chicago / Illinois •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We were in town to see A Christmas Carol and made reservations well in advance. The pork ribs were fantastic and my husband loved his shrimp and grits!
    More info
    Succotash PRIMEPrice: Moderate• American• Penn Quarter
    4.6
  • Lynnevip
    Washington, D.C. Area •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    We love it here! The food is yummy and service is great. There seemed to be many large groups the night we went and it was very loud but quieted down after people began to leave.
    More info
    China ChilcanoPrice: Expensive• Peruvian• Penn Quarter
    4.6
  • Kim
    Washington, D.C. Area •1 review
    4.0
    Dined on Nov 16, 2024
    Love love the aesthetic and the vibe. Ultra-cool. Service was excellent. I wish the drinks were better. We both got a cocktail, and while they were good, they weren't amazing - which was an expectation we both had. They didn't seem to have enough liquor in them and really mild on flavor. The food however, was great. Would definitely go again as the presentation of the restaurant from coming out of the ride share and walking up, to being seated was such a fabulous feeling.
    More info
    Dirty Habit | The Glass HousePrice: Moderate• Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service• Penn Quarter
    4.4

Discover best special occasions restaurants in Penn Quarter

Discover the perfect venues for special occasions in the vibrant Penn Quarter of Washington, D.C. This eclectic neighborhood boasts an array of restaurants that cater to every type of celebratory event, from intimate anniversaries to grand gatherings. Each establishment in this district offers a unique blend of ambiance, service, and culinary excellence, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience tailored to your special moments. Whether you're seeking a cozy spot with a romantic atmosphere or a lively venue with space for a large party, Penn Quarter has something to offer. The dining scene here is characterized by its diversity and quality, with options ranging from innovative small plates to luxurious multi-course meals. These restaurants not only prioritize exceptional food and decor but also excel in creating a welcoming environment that makes every occasion feel extraordinary. Choose Penn Quarter for your next special occasion and enjoy a culinary journey that celebrates both the tradition and innovation of Washington, D.C.’s rich gastronomic culture.

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