The Adams Morgan Neighborhood Guide in Washington, DC
When you’re searching for food in Washington, DC, you’re likely to wander into the Adams Morgan neighborhood. It’s an eclectic area where you’ll find so much more than just bars to shops and restaurants. We’ve got the insider scoop on all of the best eats. Check out this list with 9 of our favorite restaurants to go to when we find ourselves in Adams Morgan, DC.
Jack Rose Dining Saloon
2007 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
(202) 588-7388
The Jack Rose Dining Saloon is an all-American place with themed dining rooms throughout. You can enjoy the DC atmosphere on their open-air terrace, too. The menu encompasses a bit of everything, including a delicious crab dip as well as fried chicken sliders. Whiskey is the real celebrity at the saloon, and there’s a long list of options. If you can’t decide, there’s always the trilogy of whiskeys. The best part is that the friendly staff will help you decide what to pair with your meal.
Johnny Pistolas
2333 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
(202) 817-3255
If you’re in the mood for street tacos and margaritas, there’s no better place in the Adams Morgan neighborhood than Johnny Pistolas. The contemporary dining room is spacious with plenty of room to gather when you have a larger group. We recommend kicking off your meal with queso fundido. Then, mix and match your tacos or check out a bowl. As for the margaritas, there’s a long list of options for you to explore.
Tail Up Goat
1827 Adams Mill Rd NW, Washington, DC 20009
Tail Up Goat offers a hip take on fine dining. Found in The Adamo, it serves up a bit of everything, including Mediterranean dishes and Caribbean drinks. The modern dining room is the perfect place to go when you want to make a lasting impression. Grilled quail and lamb ribs are just some of the menu items you can look forward to. You’ll eat well while you’re here. And if you want an intimate dining experience, be sure to request a booth.
Federalist Pig
1654 Columbia Rd NW, Washington, DC 20009
With a name like Federalist Pig, we had to give it a try. The BBQ place did not disappoint, especially with the dry-rubbed pork that comes in the form of platters and sandwiches. They’ve got a laid back, family friendly vibe here. You can sit inside at the long tables or grab a table in the shade on their outdoor patio. You’ll find plenty of proteins, including not only pork but also chicken wings and jalapeno cheese sausage. You’re missing out if you don’t get a side of mac & cheese, too.
Osteria Al Volo
1790 Columbia Rd NW, Washington, DC 20009
(202) 758-0759
When you’re searching for an Italian restaurant for date night, Osteria Al Volo is the place to be. The rustic dining room offers plenty of seating, but you’ll still want to make reservations. You can count on this place for not only house-made pasta but also gelato. There’s beer and wine on the menu, and it’s heavy on Italian reds. The food is authentic, and we happen to love the short rib ravioli.
Roofers Union
2446 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
(202) 232-7663
Roofers Union is a three-story rustic tavern where you can enjoy exceptional views of the city. The menus vary based on season and access to fresh ingredients. You can snack on deviled eggs with a cocktail in your hand or you can move into some of the larger meals. There’s a uniquely American twist on many of the dishes, and we recommend the bratwurst when you can find it. Of course, you won’t want to miss out on their brunch, either. A Hot Mess washed down with a bottomless mimosa is always the way to go.
The Imperial
2001 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
(202) 299-0334
The Imperial is one of those places where you go for the happy hour and end up staying because you love the food and the overall vibe. It has a very modern look with large windows and wood accents. The menu includes a raw bar, seafood powers, and house-made pasta, such as their oyster mushroom agnolotti. Cocktails will make you feel as though you’re tapping into the prohibition era, so be sure to ask the bartender for a recommendation.
Perry’s Restaurant
1811 Columbia Rd NW, Washington, DC 20009
(202) 234-6218
Perry’s stands out as a stylish Japanese eatery. You’ll find a classy rooftop bar with incredible views as well as a delicious menu. You can keep it simple by checking off all of the sushi you want for your table, or you can go for a full entrée. The bar is impressive with its long list of sake rice wines, sangrias, and imported beverages. It’s a place where you can relax and enjoy good food with a drink in your hand.
Meze Restaurant
2437 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
(202) 797-0017
Meze specializes in sophisticated Middle Eastern cuisine. They have plenty of small plates that are fun to share with a group. They are also well-known for their late-night menu since they are open until midnight on Friday and Saturday evenings. They’ve got indoor and outdoor seating so depending on the weather, you’ve got plenty of options. Their roasted lamb shank is divine, and a mojito bar is what really shines when you’re looking for a cocktail.
For more recommendations on where to eat and drink in the city, check out our Washington, DC page, here!
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