Where to Eat Near American University in Washington, DC
American University is a top tier private university in the heart of Washington DC. It can be overwhelming to find the best restaurants nearby because there are so many. The good news is that we love DC and happen to know what to recommend no matter what you might be in the mood to eat. If you need some good recommendations for restaurants to eat near American University, check out this blog for 10 of our favorite spots!
Zaytinya
701 9th St NW, Washington, DC 20001
(202) 638-0800
Zaytinya is a well-known restaurant as it is the brainchild of Chef Jose Andres. You’ll find a wide array of Eastern Mediterranean dishes. Small plates make it easy to share with everyone at your table. Falafel and tzatziki dip are two of our favorites found on the menu. Regional wines are also available to complement everything that you order. The tables are large, allowing you to dine with groups. Of course, you can always choose to sit right at the bar.
Filomena
1063 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007
(202) 338-8800
Pasta made in-house and over-the-top Italian décor? Yes, please. Filomena Ristorante is known for hearty fare and desserts that tempt you from the moment that you walk through the door. A lot of unique pasta dishes fill the menu, though the one we often find ourselves dreaming about is the Tortelloni Di Michele. It’s a truly magical experience, and reservations are highly recommended.
Susheria
3101 K St NW, Washington, DC 20007
(202) 333-2006
You might be able to buy sushi anywhere, but it’s important to find the good stuff. Susheria is close enough to American University, and we’ve found that they do a great job of thinking outside of the box. Their volcano roll is divine, and the sauces that are used provide the perfect amount of heat. The posh surroundings are all the more reason to visit, and they even host occasional DJ parties, providing you with the perfect vibe for eating sushi and sipping cocktails.
El Centro
1218 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007
(202) 333-4100
El Centro is a two-story space that provides innovative Mexican fare. You’ll never go hungry with their diverse menu and their large portions. You can start off with queso fundido for the table, and then dive right into a bowl of tortilla soup. When you are craving tacos, we highly recommend the crispy shrimp option. Cocktails are abundant. Plus, their outdoor space is fun, and it has its very own bar.
Chef Geoff’s
3201 New Mexico Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016
(202) 237-7800
Chef Geoff’s takes American cuisine and twists it into something fun and delightful. You’ll find that the space is family-friendly during the day with an active bar scene in the evenings. Their salmon and sweet potato fries are both delicious and healthy. Classic photos tell a story around the dining room while diners indulge in cocktails, fritto misto, and all sorts of other items from the eclectic menu.
Millie’s Spring Valley
4866 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016
(202) 733-5789
Millie’s offers American fare that is conveniently located in Spring Valley Village. Their crab fried rice is always a favorite, though you’ll also find such things as lobster quesadillas and seared scallops on the menu. There’s a New England vibe throughout more than just the menu. You’ll find picnic tables outside with umbrellas, offering a beautiful spot to eat, too. And if you prefer to grab your food and head back to campus, ordering online to-go is always a possibility.
Farmers and Distillers
600 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001
(202) 464-3001
Every now and again, a restaurant surprises you. Farmers and Distillers has taken a unique approach to American cuisine. Their southern fried chicken with a glazed donut is an unforgettable meal. The eatery is also a distillery, which means that you can find some amazing drinks concocted with housemade spirits. As the name implies, it’s very farm-to-table. The whole place has a relaxing vibe where you can spend hours exploring the drinks and different dishes.
Bindaas
3309 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008
(202) 244-6550
Bindaas takes Indian street food to the next level. The best way to judge any Indian restaurant is with the tikka masala, and theirs happens to be divine. The interior has a funky vibe where you can relax with friends. There’s a dedicated lunch menu so that you can enjoy lighter fare such as the pao masala omelette. The staff is especially friendly and will be happy to make recommendations so that you can guarantee that you love what is served.
2 Amys
3715 Macomb St NW, Washington, DC 20016
(202) 885-5700
We’d be way out of line to forget pizza when near a university, and no one does pizza quite like 2 Amys. The wood-oven pizzeria gets busy, so be sure that you are ready for a wait. The Neapolitan-style pies are worth it, and you can even wait with a glass of Italian wine. The dining room provides a full view of the kitchen so that you can see pizza dough being tossed into the air. Though, should you want to order your pizza to-go, they make it easy to do so.
Le Diplomate
Pepe, 1601 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
(202) 332-3333
Le Diplomate is a popular French spot with an old-fashioned dining room. There’s also an outdoor seating area that allows you to see the hustle and bustle of DC. You’ll find a significant amount of French comfort food that includes everything from salade niçoise to steak frites. Though, the ricotta ravioli from the hors oeuvres menu is a personal favorite. There’s always plenty to choose from, and don’t forget to explore the deliciously crafted cocktails, too.
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