Best French Restaurants in Waterfront

31 restaurants available nearby

A photo of La Grande Boucherie - DC restaurant

1. La Grande Boucherie - DC

4.5

Price: Very Expensive

• French • Washington

Booked 356 times today

Nestled just a block away from the White House at 699 14th Street NW, La Grande Boucherie is a beacon of Steakhouse excellence in Washington D.C. Celebrated for its impeccably cooked steaks, the restaurant offers an exquisite meat program that shines through dishes like the "perfectly cooked and seasoned" steak frites. Patrons often rave about the "amazing" filet mignon au poivre and the Australian ribeye, noting them as "cooked to perfection." The grand Art Nouveau style venue enhances the dining experience, making every meal feel special and elevated. Reviews consistently highlight the stellar service and vibrant atmosphere, making La Grande Boucherie a must-visit for steak lovers in the heart of D.C.

2. Chez Billy Sud

4.8

Exceptional(2943)

Price: Moderate

• French • Georgetown

Booked 64 times today

Chez Billy Sud, nestled in the historic neighborhood of Georgetown, Washington, D.C., is renowned for its authentic Wine Bar, Bar à Vin. This charming spot stands out for its "great wine selection" and has been hailed for its "great advice re what to order," ensuring a perfectly paired wine experience with every meal. Visitors frequently rave about the ambiance and the exceptional food, but it is the wine that completes the dining experience, offering "good value propositions in terms of wine" that beautifully complement the classic French fare. Whether you are a wine aficionado or a casual drinker, Chez Billy Sud’s Wine Bar offers a cozy getaway to indulge in a meticulously curated wine list that promises to enhance your meal and elevate your evening.

3. Petite Cerise

4.7

Exceptional(120)

Price: Expensive

• French • Mount Vernon Square

Booked 52 times today

Part neighborhood café, part energetic bistro, Petite Cerise is located in a bright and lively historic corner space in Shaw/Mount Vernon Triangle. Petite Cerise features separate à la carte menus for brunch, lunch, and dinner. In addition, Petite Cerise has a Coffee Counter open Tuesday - Friday opening at 8am serving classic coffee and espresso preparations, housemade pastries, and other breakfast items to go or sit down.Dinner offers both an à la carte menu along with a Prix Fixe option. The focus in the evening is to craft unique and innovative dishes utilizing the very best ingredients within the Mid-Atlantic region and beyond skillfully prepared through a French lens.If you decide to join us for a morning coffee, quick mid-day bite, stretch out your lunch over a glass of wine, or gather with friends for an indulgent and creative dinner, we invite you here to celebrate and enjoy.

A photo of Bistro Du Jour District Wharf restaurant

4. Bistro Du Jour District Wharf

4.5

Awesome(555)

Price: Moderate

• French • Southwest Waterfront

Booked 26 times today

The way we French ...Bistro Du Jour is an all-day Parisian bistro serving traditional fare like Coq Au Vin, Croque Madame, French Onion Soup, Steak Frites and Duck Confit, as well as an extensive selection of bubbly and an exciting list of cocktails and aperitifs. Open for Breakfast, Weekend Brunch, Lunch and Dinner.Note: We offer full serving dining during Dinner (Daily) and Weekend Brunch only. During Breakfast (Daily) & Lunch (Weekday)

5. Jackie

4.6

Exceptional(159)

Price: Expensive

• French • Navy Yard

Booked 3 times today

Jackie American Bistro in Navy Yard, Washington, provides a delightful twist on Italian cuisine that leaves diners raving about its "thoughtful and flavorful food" and "impeccable service." The restaurant’s modern American menu, with nods to classic Italian flavors, is crafted using fresh, sustainably-harvested ingredients. Highlights include the short rigatoni, which has been described as fantastic. The ambiance, described as "fancy retro/60s feel," perfectly complements the dining experience. Patrons consistently praise the innovative cocktails and the professional, attentive staff, making Jackie a must-visit for those seeking a unique and exquisite Italian dining experience in the heart of DC.

A photo of Bistro Du Jour Capitol Hill restaurant

6. Bistro Du Jour Capitol Hill

4.7

Exceptional(129)

Price: Moderate

• French • Washington

Booked 11 times today

Bistro du Jour is a Parisian bistro from KNEAD Hospitality + Design. Serving traditional fare like Macaron Au Foie, Croque Madame, Salade Niçoise, French Onion Soup and Steak Frites as well as an extensive selection of bubbly and an exciting list of cocktails and aperitifs.We are open for Breakfast, Weekend Brunch, Lunch, Dinner and Happy Hour.

7. Cafe Du Parc

4.5

Awesome(2534)

Price: Expensive

• French • Downtown

Booked 44 times today

Café du Parc, a Parisian-inspired gem in the heart of Washington, D.C., offers an authentic café experience reminiscent of a sidewalk café in Europe. Nestled steps from the National Mall, this café provides not only a prime location but also serves top-notch coffee and pastries that transport you straight to France. Patrons rave about the "perfectly flaky delicious almond croissant and ham and cheese croissant," which are both splendid highlights of their dining experience. The café's atmosphere is praised as "welcoming and cozy," making it a preferred spot for both locals and visitors. It's the attention to traditional French culinary details and the bustling, yet inviting ambiance that makes Café du Parc a standout destination for café cuisine lovers looking for quality and authenticity in the capital city.

A photo of Josephine - Old Town restaurant

8. Josephine - Old Town

4.7

Exceptional(850)

Price: Expensive

• French • Alexandria

Booked 68 times today

Welcome to Josephine in Old Town Alexandria, a beacon of French culinary excellence where every dish promises a gastronomic delight. This French brasserie, inspired by classic Parisian eateries, offers an authentic taste of France with a menu that dazzles and a wine list that impresses with over 350 French selections. Patrons rave about the "next-level good" Eggs Benedict and the "crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside" brioche French toast, highlighting the kitchen's skill in blending traditional French techniques with modern flair. The ambiance, described as cozy with "vintage lighting" and a "warm and inviting" atmosphere, complements the exquisite food, making Josephine a must-visit for anyone craving genuine French cuisine. Whether it's a romantic dinner, a group gathering, or a special celebration, Josephine stands out as a culinary gem in Alexandria.

9. Belga Cafe

4.6

Exceptional(4762)

Price: Moderate

• French • Capitol Hill

Booked 17 times today

Belga Café, nestled in the vibrant Capitol Hill neighborhood of Washington, DC, is a gem for those seeking authentic French cuisine. While it might also showcase Belgian flavors, the French offerings truly stand out. Patrons rave about the "best steak tartare in DC" and the "delicious French Toast," capturing the essence of French culinary artistry. The menu, filled with high-quality, creative dishes, receives high marks for both innovation and taste. Diners frequently highlight the exceptional service and the restaurant's ability to create a memorable dining experience, making it a must-visit location. Whether it's the meticulously crafted dishes or the inviting atmosphere, Belga Café promises an authentic French dining adventure right in the heart of Capitol Hill.

10. Bresca

4.6

Exceptional(858)

Price: Expensive

• French • U Street Corridor

Booked 14 times today

Bresca, nestled in the vibrant U Street Corridor of Washington, DC, is a beacon of contemporary French cuisine. The restaurant has garnered glowing accolades for its innovative approach to French dining, skillfully blending Eastern and Western culinary traditions under the guidance of Chef Ryan Ratino. Diners rave about the exceptional quality of dishes such as the Potato Pierogi and Diver Scallop, highlighting the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients which "sing of summer." The atmosphere is described as a perfect mix of cozy bistro charm and refined elegance, making every visit memorable. With accolades like "best duck I’ve ever had" and experiences that exceed expectations, Bresca stands out as a pinnacle of culinary excellence and creativity.

‘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

M
Marni
Washington, D.C. Area •5 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
First time — Burgers/frites were very good. Salad Verte had the best flavors. French onion soup — excellent. Service was even better. Will return.
More info
Chez Billy SudPrice: Moderate• French• Georgetown
•
4.8
E
Edward
Washington, D.C. Area •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Few places exceed expectations set for a newer restaurant but this was my experience on my first dinner at La Grande Boucherie. Filled to capacity for Thanksgiving, the service didn't suffer, the wine list well matched to the menu, and the food was perfectly prepared. The steak melts in your mouth, the French onion soup better than Paris, and oysters fresh, plump, and perfectly chilled. Outstanding. But nothing prepares you for the breathtaking ambiance! The sweeping staircase, magnificent Beaux Arts interior- you might think you're in Paris!
More info
La Grande Boucherie - DCPrice: Very Expensive• French• Washington
•
4.5
C
Charlesvip
Washington, D.C. Area •19 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
Our go to place in DC. Food is always delicious and the service attentive.
More info
Petite CerisePrice: Expensive• French• Mount Vernon Square
•
4.7
R
Ryan
Baltimore / Maryland •1 review
5.0
Dined on Nov 22, 2024
The French onion and mussels appetizers as well as drinks were great, but a bit pricey if not on happy hour. Salmon and braised chicken entrees were fantastic as well as the creme brulee and latte. Also, for sure use the inKind app for discounts and cash back.
More info
Bistro Du Jour District WharfPrice: Moderate• French• Southwest Waterfront
•
4.5
S
Shanley
Washington, D.C. Area •6 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 10, 2024
Great brunch prior to the Spirit game. We were in and out in one hour, and did not feel rushed. Food was excellent as always, service was warm and attentive.
More info
JackiePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Navy Yard
•
4.6

Explore OpenTable

Waterfront

French

Best French Restaurants in Waterfront

Price

Regions

Neighborhoods

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating Options

Award-winning

Accessibility

31 restaurants available nearby

1. La Grande Boucherie - DC

2. Chez Billy Sud

3. Petite Cerise

4. Bistro Du Jour District Wharf

5. Jackie

6. Bistro Du Jour Capitol Hill

7. Cafe Du Parc

8. Josephine - Old Town

9. Belga Cafe

10. Bresca

See what locals rave about

Explore OpenTable