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Best Authentic Restaurants in Columbia Heights / Brightwood

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210 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Letena Ethiopian Restaurant restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(102)
Price: Moderate
• Ethiopian • Columbia Heights / Brightwood
Booked 2 times today
Letena Ethiopian Restaurant is authentic because it's family-owned, farm-to-table, and serves dishes made with natural, premium ingredients. Reviewers praise it as having 'fresh, vibrant and tasty' food, and the 'best Ethiopian food in the area.' The owners are also commended for their 'great hospitality' and 'unique and beautiful interior space'. The restaurant's goal of making Ethiopian food approachable for all is evident in the high ratings from customers.
A photo of Kookoo Restaurant and Lounge restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(22)
Price: Moderate
• Persian • Washington
Booked 3 times today
KooKoo is a concept by Chef/Owner Yahya Sardari to bring the tastes of his childhood dishes to life. We strive to use the freshest available ingredients and best family recipes to bring our favorite dishes to life. We have a crafted some amazing Persian inspired cocktails for your enjoyment. Traditional spices married with the best spirits by our resident mixologist Danielle. Yahya Sardari brought Kookoo to life in August of 2023 to showcase his love of Persian cuisine. With family recipes handed down from his mom he recreates his childhood memories and shares his passion for cooking and hosting with his guests.
A photo of Zaytinya - DC restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(19545)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • Penn Quarter
Booked 259 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 Filomena Ristorante restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(17326)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Georgetown
Booked 260 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 El Secreto de Rosita restaurant
4.5
Awesome(715)
Price: Moderate
• Latin American • Downtown
Booked 22 times today
El Secreto De Rosita seeks to create great-tasting, authentic Peruvian street food, expertly crafted by Chef Kike Espinoza, that transports you to the vibrant flavors of Peru. With a warm, welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of your grandmother’s home, it’s a place where every bite feels like a cherished family tradition.
A photo of Amazonia restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(175)
Price: Very Expensive
• Peruvian • Mount Vernon Square
Booked 43 times today
Venture into the relaxed ambiance of Amazonia, our inviting upstairs bar, dining room and rooftop hideaway. As one of the first Amazonian restaurants in the U.S., discover the exotic flavors and ingredients from Peru's rainforest, as well as favorite Peruvian staples. Here you can explore a thoughtfully curated selection of pisco and imaginative cocktails. The dishes you'll enjoy in Amazonia are meant for sharing, and are expertly prepared by the very same skilled kitchen team from Causa downstairs.
A photo of dLeña restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2107)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Mount Vernon Square
Booked 67 times today
dLeña is a vibrant restaurant in Washington D.C. that invites you to explore the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine. Step into a warm space illuminated by wood-fired ovens and adorned with Latin American art. Savor a culinary journey with fresh, local ingredients, starting with their signature guacamole, a blend of avocado, tomato, onion, cilantro, and lime. Continue your adventure with ceviches, aguachiles, and wood-fired specialties like Tomahawk steak and Wagyu Steak a la Piedra. dLeña's menu caters to all tastes, featuring pescatarian, vegan, and vegetarian options. Pair your meal with an extensive selection of tequila and mezcal, or enjoy a handcrafted cocktail. Whether you're after a romantic dinner, a lively brunch, or a late-night gathering, dLeña's trendy ambiance and attentive service promise an unforgettable experience. Join them for a taste of Mexico's vibrant culture and culinary artistry.
A photo of Succotash PRIME restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(4001)
Price: Moderate
• American • Penn Quarter
Booked 131 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 Olio e Più - DC restaurant
4.3
Awesome(258)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Washington
Booked 69 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 Limani - DC restaurant
4.3
Awesome(1056)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • Southwest Waterfront
Booked 43 times today
Welcome to Limani at the District Wharf, redefining waterfront dining. Enjoy stunning multi-level views and a culinary journey from timeless classics to innovative dishes, emphasizing fresh, seasonal ingredients and globally sourced fish and seafood. Our approach combines modern and traditional culinary methods, supported by a diverse beverage selection, including fine wines, champagnes, and a dynamic cocktail program with non-alcoholic options. Experience upscale dining with white tablecloths on our first and second floors, or embrace the open air on our 190-seat third-floor Terrace. Here, enjoy the same exquisite menu in a lively, open-air setting with a fresh breeze, string lights, and panoramic water views creating a casual upbeat ambiance. Our Mediterranean-inspired dishes promise an exceptional dining experience. This is Limani, your table awaits.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Inchol
    1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
     One of the best dining experiences that had in this area in recent years. Food was amazing and the restaurant was beautiful.
    More info
    El Secreto de RositaPrice: Moderate• Latin American• Downtown
    4.5
  • Jacob
    Washington, D.C. Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Truly one of the best dinners we've ever had. We went as a couple for Valentines' Day. We haven't had much Persian food before, so didn't know what to expect, but this blew us away. The eggplant was incredible, as was the chicken (comes with incredible horseradish-pickled onions and rice)! The drinks were also delicious (the vodka/lemon/lavender one was particularly good). We met the owner, Yahya, at the end of the meal and he was incredibly gracious and welcoming. We will be returning and bringing our family here when they are in town. So delicious!
    More info
    Kookoo Restaurant and LoungePrice: Moderate• Persian• Washington
    4.6
  • StevenVIP
    Utah •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    I can’t get over how incredible our server was. Elvis immediately acknowledged that we were vegetarians and had accommodations made for even the fixed Valentine’s Day menu. We truly appreciate it. And not to forget, but the food was incredible. I would go back and eat an entire bowl of the beet salata
    More info
    Zaytinya - DCPrice: Expensive• Mediterranean• Penn Quarter
    4.7
  • Nat
    Virginia •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We had an amazing evening. The food was amazing. Thank you to Fernando, who made the night unforgettable. His attention to detail and warm hospitality made us feel like we were the only people in the restaurant. He anticipated our needs, made thoughtful recommendations, and added a personal touch that elevated the entire evening. It’s rare to find such genuine service these days, and Fernando truly made us feel at home. We can’t wait to return! Highly recommended for anyone looking for great food and an even better experience.
    More info
    Filomena RistorantePrice: Expensive• Italian• Georgetown
    4.8
  • Lynda
    Cleveland / Akron / Canton •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Jan 4, 2025
    Letena was a winner from start to finish. The servers were friendly and helpful, the food was delicious and well-presented and the ambiance was just right. We got the veggie sampler and our granddaughter ordered the beef tips. Both were outstanding. Bravo!
    More info
    Letena Ethiopian RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Ethiopian• Columbia Heights / Brightwood
    4.8

Discover best authentic restaurants in Columbia Heights / Brightwood

Discover the heart of authentic dining in Washington, D.C.'s vibrant Columbia Heights / Brightwood area. This neighborhood is a treasure trove of culinary delights, where restaurants pride themselves on delivering genuine flavors that reflect their unique cultural heritages. Each establishment in this locale offers a distinct experience, focusing on traditional cooking techniques and high-quality ingredients, ensuring an authentic taste that resonates with both locals and visitors. The dining scene here is characterized by its eclectic mix, from cozy eateries to sophisticated settings, all committed to providing an unforgettable gastronomic journey. These restaurants not only cater to those seeking traditional dishes but also to diners looking for an authentic atmosphere. The commitment to authenticity is evident in the meticulous preparation and presentation of each meal, making Columbia Heights / Brightwood a go-to destination for anyone craving a true taste of diverse cultures. Whether you're a food enthusiast or simply exploring the area, the authenticity of these dining spots is sure to provide a rich and satisfying experience.

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