15 Most Expensive Restaurants In D.C. in 2024
What are the top choices when it comes to the most expensive restaurant in D.C.? The city boasts a vibrant and diverse food scene, particularly for those seeking fine dining experiences. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, discovering D.C.'s culinary gems is a must for anyone with a taste for luxury.
We’ve curated a list of the best and most expensive restaurants in D.C., each offering a unique take on what defines the ideal dining experience. From refined, intimate settings to lively, party-like atmospheres, there’s something to satisfy every palate and preference.
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The 15 Most Expensive Restaurants In Washington, D.C.
1. Fiola Mare
The first spot on our list of the most expensive restaurants in D.C. is Fiola Mare. This restaurant is inspired by Italy’s gorgeous coasts and delicious seafood.
The Vibe
Fiola Mare is a top choice when it comes to the most expensive restaurant in D.C., especially for those seeking something refined and modern. Expect a bright and airy space with cheery cobalt blue seating.
What to Order
Start with some caviar toast and then order the signature seafood tower, inspired by the Amalfi coast.
Fiola Mare | 3050 K St. NW, Ste. 101, Washington, D.C. 20007 | $$$$
2. Imperfecto
Born from the pandemic is Imperfecto, another of the most expensive restaurants in D.C. Created with the beauty of imperfection in mind, this restaurant serves up a harmonious medley of Mediterranean and Latin American cuisines.
The Vibe
Step into this spacious restaurant and you’ll be met with tall ceilings, sophisticated dark blue seats and marble tabletops. This is definitely among the top fancy restaurants in Washington, D.C.
What to Order
Make sure to try the tiger prawns in “a la diablo” sauce, enhanced with lemon butter and the exclusive Imperfecto Cholula sauce.
Imperfecto | 1124 23rd St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20037 | $$$$
3. Métier
What are the other most expensive restaurants in D.C.? One standout is Métier, located just below its sister restaurant, Kinship. As you step inside, you’re transported into a completely different world, where upscale ambiance and culinary artistry come together for an unforgettable experience.
The Vibe
Métier's interior design is elegant and minimal, with warm candlelight and rustic wooden floors that match its reputation as one of the most expensive restaurants in D.C.
What to Order
If you like surprises, Métier offers a six-course tasting menu. Be aware that the menu changes regularly.
Métier | 1015 7th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20001 | $$$$
4. The Dabney
For a charming new American menu at one of the most expensive restaurants in D.C., consider The Dabney. This farm-to-table restaurant is inspired by fresh ingredients from the Mid-Atlantic region.
The Vibe
The atmosphere here is rustic and homey, with exposed brick walls and white-painted pipes overhead along with a charming covered patio.
What to Order
If you're in the mood for a tasting menu on your tour of the most expensive restaurants in D.C., you're in luck. As a Michelin star restaurants in D.C., you won't be disappointed when you dine here.
The Dabney | 122 Blagden Alley NW, Washington, D.C. 20001 | $$$$
5. Jônt
Our next pick when it comes to finding the most expensive restaurant in D.C. is Jônt. Led by Chef Ryan Ratino, this Michelin-star restaurant serves a Japanese-inspired tasting menu crafted with ingredients from around the world.
The Vibe
The energy at Jônt is refined and intimate, with a relaxed lounge-like dining space. If you're looking for a spot of romance at the most expensive restaurant in D.C., this is the place to go.
What to Order
This restaurant serves a tasting menu that rotates regularly. Don't worry, it's always delicious.
Jônt | 1904 14th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20009 | $$$
6. Xiquet by Danny Lledó
The next entry on this list of the most expensive restaurants in D.C. is Xiquet by Danny Lledó. The chefs here offer a tasting menu inspired by Valencian cuisine, including signature rice dishes and more.
The Vibe
The atmosphere is here decidedly classy. Flexible mood lighting makes it one of the most romantic restaurants in D.C. by night, and an upscale spot for celebratory meals by day. An open kitchen and thoughtful artwork adornments complete the vibe.
What to Order
Try the tasting menu, which rotates regularly.
Xiquet by Danny Lledó | 2404 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20007 | $$$$
7. Le Diplomate
Found in the 14th Street corridor and certainly one of the most expensive restaurants in D.C. is Le Diplomate. Inspired by Parisian cafés, a trip to this D.C. restaurant immerses you in old-world European charm.
The Vibe
Everything about this spot — from its historic walls and ceilings to the lively, colorful décor and bustling atmosphere — earns La Diplomate a place on this list of D.C.'s most expensive restaurants.
What to Order
Try the onion soup gratinée or the mussels and fries. Neither will leave you disappointed!
Le Diplomate | 1601 14th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20009 | $$$
8. El Cielo
For some of the best Colombian food around, visit El Cielo. Known as possibly the most expensive restaurant in D.C. for Latin American cuisine, it earns its reputation by providing dining experiences that are nothing short of spectacular.
The Vibe
As a top contender for the most expensive restaurant in D.C., this is a place for special occasions. Expect a warmly decorated space with greenery, plush seating and natural wooden accents.
What to Order
Try one of the three tasting experiences. If available, try the halibut, luxuriously paired with creamy quinoa, aioli and the subtle tang of pickled baby corn.
El Cielo | 1280 4th St. NE, Washington, D.C. 20002 | $$$$
9. Pineapple & Pearls
A Michelin-star establishment that's known for its lively, party-like atmosphere (complete with a take-home bag at the end), Pineapple & Pearls is another spot that earns its place on this list of the most expensive restaurants in D.C.
The Vibe
Unlike many other places on this list of the most expensive restaurants in D.C., the vibe here is one of celebration, perfect for toasting the successes of life and sharing special moments with loved ones.
What to Order
The Michelin star menu includes a four-course meal, featuring pleasantly surprising flavors. Popular standout dishes in the past include the fried chicken sandwich and the bacalao ravioli with Champagne and caviar.
Pineapple & Pearls | 715 8th St. SE, Washington, D.C. 20003 | $$$$
10. minibar by José Andrés
It’s exclusive. It’s intimate. It’s minibar by José Andrés, a top contender for the most expensive restaurant in D.C. Led by Chef Andrés, this two-Michelin-star restaurant serves up experimental new American cuisine, creating a gastronomic experience like no other.
The Vibe
The communal setting comprises a 12-seat bar with comfy white chairs against a sleek wooden table. If you're looking for fun things to do in D.C., this place is perfect for enjoying great food while forging new friendships.
What to Order
As one of the most expensive restaurants in D.C., minibar offers a delicious tasting menu that rotates regularly.
minibar by José Andrés | 855 E. St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20004 | $$$$
11. Cranes
For an expert-made medley of Spanish-Japanese cuisine, visit Cranes. This Michelin-star Spanish Kaiseki establishment is led by Chef Pepe Moncayo and features delicious and inventive dishes.
The Vibe
This candidate for the most expensive restaurant in D.C. offers a lively space featuring a bar, a lounge and two gorgeous dining rooms.
What to Order
Try the mushroom rice with shio kombu, cheesy scamorza and puffed rice.
Cranes | 724 9th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20001 | $$$
12. 1789 Restaurant & Bar
The name of this next contender in the race for the most expensive restaurant in D.C. is inspired by the founding year of Georgetown University. 1789 Restaurant & Bar encapsulates the centuries-old history of its namesake with an elevated menu of classic American cuisine.
The Vibe
This luxurious restaurant is set in a renovated Federal house, adding to its historic charm. Framed artwork adorns the walls, depicting bygone days amid an elegant setting.
What to Order
Try the Australian rack of lamb, featuring a refreshing lemon-mint olive oil.
1789 Restaurant & Bar | 1226 36th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20007 | $$$
13. Bistro du Jour
Another of D.C.'s most expensive restaurants is Bistro du Jour, a French spot that’s earned its stellar reputation. It offers two locations; one at the Wharf and the other in Capitol Hill.
The Vibe
The atmosphere here is classy and warm, perfect if you're looking for date ideas in D.C. Large windows are great for people-watching, while ornate-patterned carpeting complements the restaurant's cozy, old-world energy.
What to Order
Order the orzo Al’Homard with butter-poached lobster and truffled crème fraîche.
Bistro du Jour | Multiple Locations | $$$
14. Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse
Craving steak? Our next pick in the lineup of the most expensive restaurants in D.C is Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse, a North American chain restaurant and a leader in perfectly cooked meats of all kinds.
The Vibe
The atmosphere here is impressive, with an extensive salad bar, arched ceilings and cozy, warm-toned lighting.
What to Order
As one of the most expensive restaurants in D.C., you'd expect the food here to impress, and it does. Try the signature selection of fire-roasted meats, and don’t forget to top it with the restaurant's famed chimichurri sauce.
Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse | 1101 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20004 | $$$
15. The Lafayette
The final entrant on this list of the most expensive restaurants in D.C. is The Lafayette. Located in the Hay-Adams Hotel, this American fine-dining restaurant offers an upscale experience.
The Vibe
This restaurant is undoubtedly elegant and classy. Guests here can enjoy their meal by candlelight in a gorgeous communal dining room.
What to Order
If you're visiting The Lafayette, a definite contender for our favorite on this list of D.C's most expensive restaurants, make sure to try the Maryland crab cakes for brunch.
The Lafayette | 800 16th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20006 | $$$$
Other Foodie Experiences in D.C.
While splurging on the most expensive restaurant in D.C. is definitely tons of fun, it’s not the only way to experience food in the city. You can also book one of the many private chefs in Washington, D.C. to guide you in cooking a delicious and luxurious meal, right in the comfort of your own home.
If you’d rather go out, consider booking a food tour in Washington, D.C. This way, you can follow a local expert and benefit from their knowledge of the culinary gems in town.
Join 200,000+ Culinary Enthusiasts
For those who appreciate the finer things in life, a reservation at one of the most expensive restaurants in D.C. is sure to tick all the boxes. Whichever restaurant from this list that you choose to visit first, you can rest assured that every plate that makes it to your table is the result of meticulous, culinary craftsmanship, from chefs who truly love what they do.
For even more ways to explore Washington, D.C. and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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