Small plates and international fare are on the menu at many D.C. restaurants

Chris Wadsworth

By , Local Expert, Washington
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Picking the 10Best restaurants in the greater Washington, D.C. area is obviously a highly subjective task (and one might say a fool's errand). But it's certainly an enjoyable one. From the steak houses where D.C.'s power brokers meet to hash out election strategies and toast political victories to the many Bohemian little eateries where young lovers in the district meet over wine and candlelight, from fine French food served on white linens to hot dogs topped with chili slung across a greasy counter, Washington D.C. is a foodie's delight. The most famous neighborhoods for D.C. dining include Adams...  Read more »
  • 1

    Oyamel

    Local Expert Tip: "You have to try our favorite Oyamel dish -- the fresh guacamole prepared table side. It's a spicy, creamy bowl of perfection."

     
  • 2

    Rasika

    • Cuisine: Indian
    • Average Main Course Price: $20
    • Neighborhood: Downtown

    Local Expert Tip: "If the complicated Indian flavors are a bit confusing for newbies, a house sommelier will help you pair the perfect wine to your food."

     
  • 3

    Meze

    Local Expert Tip: "Give the out-of-this-world Raspberry Mojito at Mezè a try. A quick stop for a drink can suddenly become a long evening of relaxing and hanging out with this sweet concoction. "

     
  • 4

    Ben's Chili Bowl

    • Cuisine: American
    • Average Main Course Price: $6
    • Neighborhood: U Street

    Local Expert Tip: "While you may not think of a chili joint for breakfast, Ben's has a full breakfast menu Monday through Saturday. Try our favorite -- the corned beef hash."

     
  • 5

    Dubliner

    Local Expert Tip: "Leave a trail of bread crumbs as you wend your way through The Dublinber. With multiple rooms, hallways and alcoves, it's easy to make a wrong turn."

     
  • 6

    Co Co. Sala

    Local Expert Tip: "For those who can't get enough, Co Co. Sala offers a 5-course dessert experience that features an amuse bouche, a main dessert, an intermezzo, a cheese plate and petit fours to wrap things up."

     
  • 7

    Cheesetique

    • Cuisine: European
    • Average Main Course Price: $10
    • Neighborhood: Alexandria

    Local Expert Tip: "Pick up some of the delicious truffle salt in the market and use it liberally in your cooking for a unique, luxurious flavor."

     
  • 8

    Circa at Dupont

    Local Expert Tip: "Don't be fooled by the small plates alongside them on the menu -- the salads are usually big enough to be a meal in themselves."

     
  • 9

    Busboys & Poets

    Local Expert Tip: "Busboys & Poets is a decent sized space and can get crowded on weekends, so go for the indie vibe and great food and not a cozy, quiet dining experience. "

     
  • 10

    Vinifera Wine Bar & Bistro

    • Cuisine: American
    • Average Main Course Price: $30
    • Neighborhood: Reston

    Local Expert Tip: "Try the Monacacy Ash cheese on the cheese board. With a light vein of ash running through it, it's a surprising taste sensation."