Best Southern American Restaurants in Downtown

269 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab - Washington DC restaurant

1. Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab - Washington DC

4.8

Exceptional(10020)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown

Booked 101 times today

At Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab in downtown Washington DC, seafood lovers are in for a treat. The restaurant, renowned for its partnership with the legendary Joe's Stone Crab of Miami Beach, promises an unparalleled seafood experience. Fresh seafood is flown in daily, ensuring only the finest quality reaches your plate. The Florida Stone Crab claws are a must-try, celebrated for their freshness and flavor. Reviewers rave about the authenticity and quality, with one guest exclaiming the Stone Crab was "10/10" and another celebrating the "best scallops I have ever had." Joe’s consistently impresses with its "spectacular" food and "exceptional" service, making it a beloved seafood destination in DC. Whether it's for a special occasion or a delightful dinner, Joe’s offers a seafood experience that’s both luxurious and satisfying.

A photo of Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley - DC restaurant

2. Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley - DC

4.2

Awesome(1587)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown

Booked 149 times today

Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley in Downtown Washington DC is a haven for cocktail enthusiasts seeking a top-notch experience. This vibrant establishment not only excels in delivering creatively twisted southern classics but also shines with its cocktail offerings. Patrons rave about the "delicious and cute presentations" of drinks, underscoring the bar's commitment to quality and flair. The ambiance, described as having "good vibes" and being a "great spot for brunch or dinner," complements the expertly crafted cocktails, making it a must-visit destination. The glowing testimonials, such as drinks being "good food was good music was bomb," highlight the exceptional cocktail bar experience that awaits at Kitchen + Kocktails.

3. The Park at 14th

4.7

Exceptional(2895)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown

Booked 85 times today

At The Park at 14th in Downtown Washington D.C., seafood enthusiasts are treated to an exquisite dining experience that tantalizes the taste buds with its high-quality and authentic seafood dishes. Nestled with a stunning view of Franklin Square, this venue is consistently praised for its culinary delights. Guests rave about the "amazing" seafood options, with particular shout-outs to the "blackened salmon that was worth every penny" and the "exceptionally delicious grits." The atmosphere is matched by the vibrant and attentive service, ensuring every seafood dish is a hit. As one reviewer put it, the food is "outstanding," making The Park at 14th a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-tier seafood experience in the heart of the capital.

4. Georgia Brown's

4.6

Exceptional(8762)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown

Booked 39 times today

At Georgia Brown’s in Downtown Washington, you'll be treated to a lively rendition of South Carolina Low-Country cuisine, where the food is as soulful as the setting. Imagine dining under bronze sculptures with a golden ambiance that enhances every bite. Reviewers rave about the authenticity and quality of the Southern dishes, declaring, "There cannot be better buttermilk fried chicken on the planet!" and praising the "best grits I’ve ever had!" The restaurant combines exceptional service with culinary excellence, making each visit memorable. It's not just a meal; it's an experience where "the food and service are consistently excellent," ensuring that Georgia Brown's is a must-visit for anyone seeking genuine Southern cuisine in the heart of Washington.

5. Dauphine’s

4.6

Exceptional(1382)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown

Booked 21 times today

Dauphine’s in Downtown, Washington, D.C., is not just a restaurant but a vibrant celebration of New Orleans culture, particularly renowned for its exceptional Cocktail Bar. Patrons rave about their "refreshing and delicious" seasonal spritz and the "delightful spritz cocktail," highlighting the bar's creativity and quality. The cocktail list perfectly complements their New Orleans-inspired cuisine, creating a truly transportive experience. Whether it's the lively ambiance during happy hour or the elegant setting for a night out, each drink is crafted with meticulous care. As one reviewer puts it, the cocktails are "interesting and delicious," making Dauphine’s a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts in the capital.

6. Lincoln - DC

4.2

Awesome(3403)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • McPherson Square

Booked 13 times today

Nestled in the heart of McPherson Square, Washington, **Lincoln - DC** stands out as a beacon of American cuisine, blending historical homage with culinary innovation. Celebrating over 12 years as a downtown DC dining staple, Lincoln offers a menu inspired by beloved American fare, including President Lincoln's favorites like oysters and chicken pot pie. The restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity shines through in its seasonal dishes, offering "creativity, freshness & value." Patrons rave about the "city's best Mac & Cheese" and commend the service, describing it as "AMAZING" and noting that Lincoln "made me look good" during family celebrations. Whether it’s the infused bourbons, distinctive moonshine selections served in stylish copper cups, or the vibrant atmosphere enriched by original pop art, Lincoln - DC encapsulates the spirit of American dining with a modern twist, making it a must-visit destination.

A photo of Lafayette Restaurant restaurant

7. Lafayette Restaurant

4.8

Exceptional(1605)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown

Booked 21 times today

Lafayette Restaurant in Downtown Washington stands as a beacon of American cuisine with its perfect blend of elegance and culinary excellence. Nestled with views of Lafayette Park and the White House, this venue offers a uniquely American dining experience that's "absolutely superb from top to bottom" according to enthusiastic diners. From the "excellent brunch" to the "perfectly cooked" fish deboned tableside, every dish showcases the authenticity and high quality of American fare. The restaurant's ambiance, highlighted by live piano music and tasteful decor, complements its stellar service, making it a must-visit for those seeking an exceptional American meal in the capital.

8. Mazi

4.5

Awesome(725)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown

Booked 12 times today

Mazi in Downtown Washington exemplifies the pinnacle of New American cuisine with a delightful twist of Greek and Mediterranean influences, creating a unique dining experience that's both innovative and deeply rooted in culinary tradition. Guests rave about the "perfectly creamy seafood pasta" and "perfectly prepared seafood," highlighting the exceptional quality and creativity of the dishes. The ambiance pairs beautifully with the food, offering a "gorgeous" setting that complements the high-end feel. Mazi's commitment to excellence is evident, with one guest noting, "The food was SO GOOD and even better for the price." Whether it's the praised Chilean sea bass or the tender and juicy kabobs, Mazi promises a memorable meal that celebrates the best of American cuisine with global flair.

A photo of The Greenhouse at The Jefferson, DC restaurant

9. The Greenhouse at The Jefferson, DC

4.8

Exceptional(1071)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown

Booked 11 times today

Located in downtown DC, just four blocks from the White House, breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch are served under The Jefferson’s historic skylight in The Greenhouse. Natural light streams from above, creating an airy atmosphere that complements the light, fresh and energizing fare on our seasonal menus.

A photo of Bobby Van's Grill - New York Ave. restaurant

10. Bobby Van's Grill - New York Ave.

4.6

Exceptional(2410)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown

Booked 5 times today

Bobby Van's Grill on New York Avenue stands out as a premier destination for authentic American cuisine in Downtown Washington, DC. Renowned for its top-notch, dry-aged steaks and fresh seafood, this restaurant draws both locals and visitors who seek a sublime dining experience. The glowing reviews emphasize not only the exceptional quality of the food but also the outstanding service, with one patron noting, "BEST dining experience I ever had in DC." The restaurant's long-tenured professional staff adds to the welcoming atmosphere, ensuring every meal is a memorable event. Whether it's for the "delicious and perfectly cooked" filet diablo or the "magnificent" seafood tower, Bobby Van's Grill promises an unparalleled American dining experience, making it a must-visit for anyone in the capital.

‘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

D
Dasha
Washington, D.C. Area •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
I had the best time here! We did have to wait 40 min with a reservation but it was well worth the wait. The food was so good I ordered the catfish with Macaroni and cheese and greens and also the chicken and waffles and the wild berry lemon drop! The kitchen and the kocktails were on point. The staff and manager were so nice one of the main reasons I had to leave a review. 10/10 would definitely recommend!
More info
Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley - DCPrice: Expensive• Southern• Downtown
•
4.2
J
Joan
Washington, D.C. Area •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
With the exception of one Thanksgiving dish, the food was great. When we commented on the dish, the manager removed the cost from the check. Family members ordered other than Thanksgiving items and were very pleased. We ordered several take out dishes and it is true….BEST FRIED CHICKEN EVER!! Enjoy.
More info
Yardbird Table & Bar - Washington D.C.Price: Expensive• Contemporary Southern• McPherson Square
•
4.5
C
Cicelyvip
Washington, D.C. Area •7 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Georgia Browns is always amazing anytime we visit but especially on Thanksgiving! The food is incredible, the service is outstanding. GB never fails to deliver even on a busy holiday. Remains one of my DC favorites!
More info
Georgia Brown'sPrice: Expensive• Low Country• Downtown
•
4.6
A
Amal
Philadelphia County •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Delicious food. Great service. Only complaint was the seating. Even though there were many open tables we were seated right next to another table that was very close. We had to move our tables over a bit to give some place next to the couple next to us. Felt very cramped
More info
Succotash PRIMEPrice: Moderate• American• Penn Quarter
•
4.6
I
Israel
Washington, D.C. Area •8 reviews
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
Amazing time celebrating a birthday here for brunch. Looking forward to my next dining experience at Hen Quarter Prime. Special thank you to our waitress Jasmine and the rest of the staff there.
More info
Hen Quarter PrimePrice: Expensive• Southern• Washington
•
4.4

Explore OpenTable

Downtown

Southern american

Best Southern American Restaurants in Downtown

Price

Regions

Neighborhoods

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating Options

Award-winning

Accessibility

269 restaurants available nearby

1. Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab - Washington DC

2. Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley - DC

3. The Park at 14th

4. Georgia Brown's

5. Dauphine’s

6. Lincoln - DC

7. Lafayette Restaurant

8. Mazi

9. The Greenhouse at The Jefferson, DC

10. Bobby Van's Grill - New York Ave.

See what locals rave about

Explore OpenTable