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Best Authentic Restaurants in Southwest Waterfront

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102 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Zaytinya - DC restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(19311)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • Penn Quarter
Booked 232 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 Oyamel restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(9553)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Penn Quarter
Booked 109 times today
Oyamel Cocina Mexicana combines Mexico’s rich regional culinary traditions with modern urban fare. Guests experience an array of antijitos—traditional Mexican snack or small plates—along with authentic tacos, ceviches and an impressive selection of cocktails and tequilas. Under the direction of renowned chef José Andrés, Head Chef Omar Rodriguez takes traditional ingredients and techniques and elevates them to deliver dishes and drinks with exceptional creativity and refinement.
A photo of Jaleo - DC restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(10913)
Price: Expensive
• Spanish • Penn Quarter
Booked 123 times today
Jaleo brings alive the spirit and flavors of Spain with a menu reflecting the rich regional diversity of classical and contemporary Spanish cuisine, under the direction of renowned chef José Andrés. Jaleo offers an impressive assortment of tapas, the traditional small dishes of Spain, as well as savory paellas, superb sangrias and a fine selection of Spanish wines and Sherries in a festive, casual atmosphere.
A photo of Olio e Più - DC restaurant
4.5
Awesome(110)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Washington
Booked 143 times today
Located at 699 14th Street on the coveted corner of 14th and G Street NW, OLIO E PIÙ, is situated on the most high-profile street in Washington D.C., just one block away from the White House, bringing Italian tradition and a true sense of Mediterranean liveliness to the Penn Quarter. As an authentic trattoria, its cuisine is based on classic Italian dishes. As you dine at OLIO E PIÙ, you’ll be transported not just by the flavors of Italy but also by the authentic atmosphere that surrounds you. Here, the spirit of 1970s Italian elegance lives on, and every meal is a celebration of life, love, and the joy of shared moments. OLIO E PIÙ is more than just a restaurant; it’s a portal to a different time and place, where the essence of Italy’s rich culinary and cultural heritage is captured in every detail.
A photo of Filomena Ristorante restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(17058)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Georgetown
Booked 201 times today
Filomena Now over 40 Years and counting!Filomena is a Washington DC landmark restaurant now with over 40 years of serving some of the finest Italian food you can enjoy. Our Pasta is fresh made by hand just like it was done for centuries in Italy. Our bakery is in-house, and we make over 20 different desserts to choose from. During Valentine's Day, Easter, Halloween and Christmas you can experience some of the most incredible decorations you can find! Four decades of making not just a great dining experience but a memorable one. Filomena has recently introduced a full line of homemade pasta, sauces, desserts that can be shipped nationwide too!
A photo of Caruso's Grocery - DC restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1159)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Capitol Hill
Booked 32 times today
Please note that we are not offering Restaurant Week at our DC location. Located at 914 14th Street SE in Washington, DC.Caruso’s Grocery is modeled after the classic, Italian-American "red sauce" joint. You know the one: red banquettes, a killer chicken parmesan, Sinatra pouring through the speakers. If you’re looking for modern interpretations of a chef's take on the classics, you won’t find them here. A joint venture from Neighborhood Restaurant Group and Partner Matthew Adler.
A photo of Taberna del Alabardero restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(3835)
Price: Expensive
• Traditional Spanish • Downtown
Booked 14 times today
Taberna del Alabardero is authentic in its Spanish cuisine and atmosphere. Customers rave about the 'authentic quality Spanish food' and 'outstanding, authentic cuisine'. The Spanish Chef, Oscar Ordonez, brings back the authentic Spanish Cuisine. The restaurant also offers a 'vintage' and 'royal' ambiance, as mentioned in the reviews. It's 'a piece of Spain' in the heart of Washington DC.
A photo of Cafe Berlin restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2313)
Price: Moderate
• German • Capitol Hill
Booked 14 times today
Café Berlin has been serving authentic German cuisine on Capitol Hill since 1985. It occupies the ground floor of three townhouses whose front yards serve as Biergarten for outdoor dining. The interior features a small bar and two cozy dining rooms. The restaurant is located within a short walking distance of Union Station and the U.S. Capitol. It draws politicians, congressional staffer, and tourists as well a loyal following of neighborhood residents. The traditional dishes are authentically prepared with lighter touch by chefs with extensive experience in German cuisine. In addition to the regular menu, the restaurant offer seasonally changing menus that feature fresh asparagus in the spring, salads and light fares in the summer, Bavarian dishes during Oktoberfest in the fall, and wild game in the winter. Desserts which are freshly made in-house include apple strudel, black forest cake, and luscious cream tortes. The bar offers a selection of imported German beers and wines.
A photo of Centrolina restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2101)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • Penn Quarter
Booked 28 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(6523)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Penn Quarter
Booked 127 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.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Jean
    Washington, D.C. Area •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    My go to restaurant when touring out of town guests around the Mall. Always a fun time with excellent food for all tastes. (There are non-spicy choices!)
    More info
    OyamelPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Penn Quarter
    4.7
  • Scottvip
    Cleveland / Akron / Canton •86 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Spent Thanksgiving night with our family at Olio e Piu and we were glad we did. Food and service were excellent. The restaurant has great ambience and a high level of hospitality. Enjoyed our night and will return.
    More info
    Olio e Più - DCPrice: Expensive• Italian• Washington
    4.5
  • Carlos
    New York City •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    The food here is absolutely amazing. We had to wait a while to be seated, but we were served a appetizer that was on the house. The service that we were given here was also amazing. They checked in on us until we got the table, and they were very kind. It wasn’t too loud, it was like any regular noise level in a restaurant. Overall, it was amazing there. 100% recommend.
    More info
    Jaleo - DCPrice: Expensive• Spanish• Penn Quarter
    4.7
  • Bernard
    Washington, D.C. Area •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    An awesome experience! Highly recommend and will be back. Made a reservation for lunch for a party of 6. We were seated within 5 minutes of arrival. We were seated in a back corner and it was very hot when we sat down. The management adjusted the temperature when we informed them. Three of us got the Chef’s Tasting Menu and I added the Wine Pairing for an extra $45. The others ordered off the lunch menu. We enjoyed everything and plenty of food with the Tasting Menu. Highly recommend!
    More info
    Zaytinya - DCPrice: Expensive• Mediterranean• Penn Quarter
    4.7
  • Lucy
    Washington, D.C. Area •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Filomena does not disappoint! Always perfectly cooked pasta, chicken and seafood. The place is already decorated for Christmas which makes it quite an experience with a polar bear dressed in his best and Santa not to mention all the streamers and stuff hanging from the ceiling. No place like it. Only downside is they fill the place up and it gets tight and warm down in that basement. A must for any trip to DC and Georgetown!
    More info
    Filomena RistorantePrice: Expensive• Italian• Georgetown
    4.8

Discover best authentic restaurants in Southwest Waterfront

Explore the vibrant dining scene in Washington D.C.'s Southwest Waterfront, where authenticity shines at every corner. Here, you'll discover a curated selection of restaurants that pride themselves on delivering genuine culinary experiences, deeply rooted in tradition and local flavors. Each establishment in this area offers a unique glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of the region, making it a magnet for those seeking authentic dining options. From expertly crafted dishes that have stood the test of time to innovative menus that breathe new life into classic recipes, these restaurants cater to a diverse palate. The serene ambiance of the Southwest Waterfront complements your dining experience, allowing the authentic flavors to take center stage. Ideal for both locals and tourists, this dining locale promises not only a meal but a journey through the essence of true culinary artistry.

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