25 Michelin Star Restaurants in D.C. To Dine at in 2024
Boasting an impressive array of Michelin star restaurants in D.C., Washington has made a name for itself by being the premier culinary destination in the USA, perhaps even the world. But, have you ever wondered just how many there are, where they're located and what delicious masterpieces they serve?
Staying up-to-date with which restaurants have been awarded this prestigious badge of honor just got easier with this list of the 25 Michelin star restaurants in D.C. Find your favorite and choose the perfect spot for your next evening out.
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- How Many Michelin Star Restaurants Are in D.C.?
- 25 Michelin Star Restaurants in Washington, D.C. To Dine At
- Enjoy Michelin Star-Quality Foods in Washington, D.C.
How Many Michelin Star Restaurants Are in D.C.?
Washington does not disappoint, with a selection of Michelin star restaurants in D.C. that are readily available to provide an unforgettable fine dining experience. There are currently 25 Michelin star restaurants in D.C., of which, only one has three stars, three have two stars and the remaining 20 restaurants each hold one Michelin star.
25 Michelin Star Restaurants in Washington, D.C. To Dine At
1. Albi
Experience one of the best 1 Michelin star restaurants in D.C. serving delightful Middle Eastern cuisine with a visit to Albi.
The Vibe
Blending the rich and aromatic ambiance of a Middle Eastern home, the atmosphere is warm and inviting. Perfect for savoring flavorful dishes in a stylish, yet cozy setting.
What to Order
The prawns grilled over coal with black shatta, fava bean dagga and cucumber yogurt are a must-try. For dessert, go for the brown butter knafeh.
Albi | 1346 4th St. SE, Washington, D.C. 20003 | $$$
2. Pineapple and Pearls
There are many Michelin star restaurants in D.C. but there is only one Pineapple and Pearls. This 2 Michelin star restaurant in D.C. offers an unforgettable fine dining experience with an imaginative four-course menu, wine and cocktails.
The Vibe
This is an upscale dining spot with innovative and artfully presented dishes in a sophisticated, intimate setting.
What to Order
Treat yourself to the 150-layer lasagna; after all, it’s not every day that you find yourself at one of the best Michelin star restaurants in D.C.
Pineapple and Pearls | 715 8th St. SE, Washington, D.C. 20003 | $$$$
3. Kinship
If you're looking for a Michelin star restaurant in D.C. that focuses on thoughtful, seasonally-driven cuisine, Kinship creates a sophisticated, yet comfortable atmosphere for diners.
The Vibe
A welcoming ambiance with elegant and minimalist décor.
What to Order
For your main course, order the roast chicken — it’s a favorite amongst diners. Then, end your evening on a sweet note with a scrumptious rhubarb hand pie.
Kinship | 1015 7th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20001 | $$$
4. Jônt
Providing an intimate and luxurious dining experience, Jônt focuses on meticulously crafted tasting menus. It’s no surprise that this is one of the best Michelin star restaurants in D.C.
The Vibe
Intimate and upscale with sleek, modern décor. The 17-seat chef's counter offers a front row to culinary artistry.
What to Order
The Japanese-inspired tasting menu goes down as a real treat. It includes a melt-in-your-mouth wagyu beef and kakigōri.
Jônt | 1904 14th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20009 | $$$$
5. Causa Amazonia
As the latest Michelin star restaurant in D.C. to combine traditional ingredients with modern culinary techniques, Causa Amazonia brings the vibrant flavors of Peruvian cuisine to life in a lively and contemporary setting.
The Vibe
Michelin star restaurants in D.C. don’t have to be boring décor-wise. Causa proves this, with an eclectic setting and an eye-catching mural that serves as a captivating centerpiece. There’s plant life hanging from the ceiling which adds a refreshing touch of greenery.
What to Order
Try the ceviche Nikkei to embark on a flavorful journey to Peru without leaving this Michelin star restaurant in D.C.
Causa Amazonia | 920 Blagden Alley NW, Washington, D.C. 20001 | $$$$
6. Oyster Oyster
A Michelin star restaurant in D.C. that offers a unique dining experience, Oyster Oyster focuses on sustainable, plant-based cuisine inspired by the flavors of the Chesapeake Bay region.
The Vibe
This restaurant's commitment to eco-conscious practices and sustainability is evident as diners have their food served on plates made from pressed used wine bottles.
What to Order
The tasting menu is a must; make sure to get the wine pairing, too.
Oyster Oyster | 440 8th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20001 | $$$
7. Xiquet by Danny Lledó
Offering a contemporary Spanish dining experience with dishes infused with the flavors of Valencia in every bite, Xiquet by Danny Lledó is one of the best Michelin star restaurants in D.C.
The Vibe
The dining experience is superb, exuding a refined and intimate vibe — exactly what you would expect from a Michelin-star restaurant in D.C.
What to Order
The tasting menu at this D.C. Michelin star restaurant includes a paella dish that will transport you straight to Spain.
Xiquet by Danny Lledó | 2404 Wisconsin Ave. NW B, Washington, D.C. 20007 | $$$$
8. Bresca
If you're in the mood for delicious French-inspired cuisine, Bresca is a contemporary bistro and one of the finest Michelin star restaurants in D.C. in which to enjoy it.
The Vibe
The atmosphere is light and airy, with attentive and knowledgeable staff.
What to Order
Start with the cabbage salad and follow it with the cod for your main course, featuring pearl onions and muscle vadouvan.
Bresca | 1906 14th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20009 | $$$$
9. Sushi Nakazawa
As one of the only Michelin star restaurants in D.C. serving authentic sushi, Sushi Nakazawa needs to be on this list of prestigious eateries.
The Vibe
Clean and beautifully laid out, with minimalist décor in an intimate setting. It offers a tranquil environment to savor meticulously crafted sushi.
What to Order
Enjoy around twenty pieces of nigiri from the omakase menu, with seafood sourced from various parts of the world, especially Japan. It's really no surprise that Sushi Nakazawa made the list of Michelin star restaurants in D.C.
Sushi Nakazawa | 1100 Pennsylvania Ave. NW., Washington, D.C. 20004 | $$$
10. Rania
The selection of Michelin star restaurants in D.C. offers a variety of exquisite dining options, including Indian masterpieces from Rania. Putting a spin on traditional Indian cuisine, this spot has become one of the top restaurants in D.C.
The Vibe
With an enticing chandelier-lit setting, soothing music and dim lighting, Raina is one of the romantic restaurants in D.C. you have to visit on date night.
What to Order
The four-course menu includes dishes that celebrate India's rich culinary heritage.
Raina | 427 11th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20004 | $$$$
11. Fiola
A 1 Michelin star restaurant in D.C. known for its rustic food and mixing traditional methods with contemporary flair, Fiola serves exquisite Italian cuisine.
The Vibe
Classy and upscale, Fiola combines classic Italian charm with modern luxury.
What to Order
The five-course and four-course menu change daily, featuring dishes like gnocchi al burro e formaggio and hazelnut gelato.
Fiola | 601 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20004 | $$$$
12. Gravitas
Pop into Gravitas for a contemporary dining experience with innovative, farm-to-table cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients.
The Vibe
Gravitas has a minimalist and chic vibe with industrial touches.
What to Order
The six-course customizable tasting menu is the way to go. You'll enjoy dishes such as yellowfin sashimi, grilled Maine lobster and seared Hudson Valley foie gras.
Gravitas | 1401 Okie St. NE, Washington, D.C. 20002 | $$$
13. Reverie
The brainchild of award-winning chef Johnny Spero, Reverie is one of the best Michelin star restaurants in D.C., serving the finest dishes using global ingredients.
The Vibe
The atmosphere at this fancy restaurant in Washington, D.C. is both refined and relaxed, offering a sophisticated, yet comfortable dining experience.
What to Order
The tasting menu is a superb choice, featuring dishes that are heavily inspired by the coast. From Spanish turbot and Maryland crab to Wellfleet oysters and gently cooked mussels, you won’t be disappointed.
Reverie | 3201 Cherry Hill Lane, Washington, D.C. 20007 | $$$$
14. Tail Up Goat
Washington's locals and visitors from all over have been experiencing scrumptious, fine-dining cuisine since the opening of Tail Up Goat in 2016.
The Vibe
With ombre blue walls and warm lighting, the atmosphere combines a cozy neighborhood feel with a touch of eclectic charm.
What to Order
With an ever-changing menu, head to the dining room where you can explore the six-course dinner option, which includes pork loin, yellowfin tuna and strawberry crémeux.
Tail Up Goat | 1827 Adams Mill Road NW, Washington, D.C. 20009 | $$$
15. Rose’s Luxury
Founded by Chef Aaron Silverman, Rose’s Luxury was affectionately named after his paternal grandmother. It has gained widespread acclaim since its opening in 2013, including being named "Best New Restaurant in America" in a magazine publication.
The Vibe
You’ll find diners enjoying their meals at wooden tables, basking under the glow of fairy lights. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, blending a cozy, intimate setting with an energetic and whimsical atmosphere.
What to Order
The five-course Choose Your Own Adventure menu is a fun and interactive way to enjoy delicious food in good company.
Rose’s Luxury | 717 8th St. SE, Washington, D.C. 20003 | $$$$
16. Little Pearl
For a cozy café by day and one of the best Michelin star restaurants in D.C. by night, step into Little Pearl, located in the historic Hill Center.
The Vibe
The atmosphere is quaint, modern and intimate with a beautiful enclosed patio space.
What to Order
Go for the seven-course tasting menu; it starts off with angel eggs and finishes on a delightfully sweet note with a poached pear, Sauternes and bay leaf funnel cake.
Little Pearl | 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, Washington, D.C. 20003 | $$$
17. Métier
When you’re in the mood for some fine dining at a Michelin star restaurant in D.C., Métier is a perfect choice.
The Vibe
This upscale restaurant is both quiet and intimate. Located within Kinship, another Michelin star restaurant in D.C. mentioned above, diners can expect a calm ambiance and impeccable service.
What to Order
Take your taste buds on a flavorful trip by ordering the five-course Travel Series menu. This innovative choice presents dishes inspired by regions that are meaningful to the Métier team.
Métier | 1015 7th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20001 | $$$$
18. minibar
Get ready for bold, boundary-pushing flavors when experiencing the innovative dining experience at minibar.
The Vibe
This popular restaurant offers an intimate and interactive 12-seat chef's-counter dining experience like no other Michelin star restaurant in D.C. can.
What to Order
Like most other Michelin star restaurants in D.C., minibar has a tasting menu with culinary delights that will live in your memory long after you've eaten them.
minibar | 855 E St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20004 | $$$$
19. Masseria
Located in the vibrant Union Market district, Masseria is a Michelin star restaurant in D.C. founded by Chef Nicholas Stefanelli. The name "Masseria" reflects the restaurant's inspiration from Italian coastal cuisine and its commitment to warm, rustic hospitality.
The Vibe
Blending rustic charm with modern elegance, the marble countertop seating, eye-catching tiled flooring and warm lighting contribute to the restaurant's sophisticated and cozy atmosphere. There’s even an inviting patio space usable year-round.
What to Order
The Chef's Tasting is an enticing eight-course menu serving authentic Italian cuisine. Note that you can only order this tasting at the Chef’s Counter and Chef’s Table.
Masseria | 1340 4th St. NE, Washington, D.C. 20002 | $$$$
20. Maydān
Diners come together at Maydān to share flavorful dishes inspired by Middle Eastern and North African cuisine.
The Vibe
A vibrant and communal atmosphere with warm, earthy tones, intricate patterns and rustic textures.
What to Order
The ribeye, complemented by adjika (a fiery sauce) and blue fenugreek, is a favorite amongst diners. Combine it with saffron couscous to take the flavor profile to the next level.
Maydān | 1346 Florida Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20009 | $$$
21. El Cielo Restaurant
Colombian cuisine takes center stage at El Cielo Restaurant, one of the best Michelin star restaurants in D.C.
The Vibe
The sophisticated, yet warm atmosphere is enhanced by elegant décor and attentive service to truly engage all the senses.
What to Order
Order the dry shrimp rice empanada for a delightful taste of what La Guajira has to offer.
El Cielo Restaurant | 1280 4th St. NE, Washington, D.C. 20002 | $$$$
22. The Dabney
For a delightful evening, visit The Dabney, serving the most delicious Mid-Atlantic cuisine to earn its spot among the Michelin star restaurants in D.C.
The Vibe
The Dabney gives off a rustic, yet refined vibe, blending a cozy, farmhouse atmosphere with a touch of urban sophistication.
What to Order
Ask for the bar menu and start with the sweet potato roll followed by the wagyu beef. Finally, enjoy the rhubarb sundae for dessert.
The Dabney | 122 Blagden Alley NW, Washington, D.C. 20001 | $$$$
23. Rooster & Owl
Vibrancy is an everlasting theme at Rooster & Owl, a Michelin star restaurant in D.C. known for its shared-plate dining concept. With a creative blend of flavors and seasonal ingredients, it's an experience you don't want to miss.
The Vibe
With its comfortable and unpretentious vibe, the restaurant ensures a delightful meal with attentive and friendly service.
What to Order
As is the common theme of Michelin star restaurants in D.C., there is a tasting menu that absolutely has to be tried. Expect dishes such as steak tartare, kampachi and pavlova.
Rooster & Owl | 2436 14th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20009 | $$$
24. Imperfecto: The Chef’s Table
Through authentic Mediterranean and Latin American flavors, Imperfecto brings to life one of the most memorable experiences of D.C.'s Michelin star restaurants.
The Vibe
The interior is modern and stylish with wooden fixtures and touches of blue, finished stylishly with black marble flooring.
What to Order
The foie gras, served with crispy plantain brioche, soursop compote, Parmigiano Reggiano and shaved truffle, will go down a treat.
Imperfecto: The Chef’s Table | 1124 23rd St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20037 | $$$$
25. The Inn at Little Washington
Last but most certainly not least, The Inn at Little Washington stands out as the only 3 Michelin star restaurant in D.C. Arguably topping all D.C. restaurants, you're guaranteed to experience an exceptional dining experience like no other.
The Vibe
Opulent, yet warm and inviting, this charming restaurant has dining rooms adorned with lush fabrics, antique furnishings and beautiful artwork. The ambiance does not disappoint, whatsoever.
What to Order
It would be a crime to visit The Inn at Little Washington without savoring the Carolina shrimp tartlet that includes a portion of spring peas, Virginia country ham and Petrossian Imperial Osetra caviar.
The Inn at Little Washington | 309 Middle St., Washington, VA 22747 | $$$
Enjoy Michelin Star-Quality Foods in Washington, D.C.
Dining out at one of the Michelin star restaurants in D.C. is a culinary experience like no other, but there's more to explore in this beloved area's culinary scene. Book a private chef in Washington, D.C. to enjoy fine dining in the comfort of your own home, perfect for any and every occasion. If you feel like heading out, try one of the many food tours in Washington, D.C. to learn more about the history of the area and its well-known foods.
Join 200,000+ Culinary Enthusiasts
Exploring this list of 25 Michelin star restaurants in D.C. might just turn out to be the unforgettable gastronomic adventure you’ve been waiting for. From the superb quality of a 3 Michelin star restaurant in D.C. to spots that feel more like cozy neighborhood gems, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
For even more ways to explore Washington, D.C. and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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