Exploring Washington DC’s Global Food Scene: The Best International Eats
Washington DC may be best known as the political heart of the United States, but it’s also one of the country’s most exciting culinary destinations. The district and its suburbs rank 6th on the diversity scale of US metro areas. It’s also home to more than 200 foreign embassies, missions, and international organizations. So what better place to explore global cuisine without the hassle of an international flight? These restaurants in the nation’s capital will make you feel like you just got off a plane, minus the swelling, dry skin and jet lag.
Chercher
Ethiopian cuisine
Washington DC is often called the second home of Ethiopia, boasting the largest Ethiopian community outside of the country itself. Ethiopian immigration to Washington DC began in the 1970s, and as the community grew, so did the number of authentic Ethiopian restaurants. Today, DC is considered one of the best places outside of Ethiopia to experience the country’s rich culinary heritage. The food is deeply communal, with large platters shared among diners. At Chercher, we particularly love the vegetarian platters, which include delightful samples of lentil stews, curries, and sautéed greens. And the pro move is to get an extra order of injera – a spongy, sourdough flatbread – to use as your utensil for scooping up stews and salads. Then you get to polish off the base injera that has soaked up all the flavors at the end.
Other top Ethiopian Restaurants in DC
Dukem – One of the city’s most famous Ethiopian restaurants, Dukem is a go-to for traditional flavors, live music, and an energetic atmosphere.
Elfegne – Formerly known as Zenebech, Elfegne is a beloved restaurant known for its fresh injera and deeply flavorful stews.
Thip Khao
Lao Cuisine
While Washington DC is famous for its diverse Asian food offerings, Lao cuisine remains one of the city’s best-kept secrets. Often overshadowed by its Thai and Vietnamese neighbors, Lao food is a bold and complex fusion of fresh herbs, fiery spices, and umami-packed fermented ingredients. Thanks to a growing appreciation for Southeast Asian flavors, DC has seen an increase in restaurants highlighting the distinct and vibrant tastes of Laos. DC’s first and most well-known Laotian restaurant, Thip Khao offers an authentic yet modern take on Lao cuisine, featuring everything from spicy larb to alligator meat. Must-try dishes include Gaeng Phet, a rich red coconut curry, and their Chuenh Paa sa Moun Pai, a crispy fried catfish dish that we regularly crave. As an added bonus, many dishes can be made vegetarian or vegan upon request, so bring your plant-based friends.
Other top Lao Restaurants in DC
Laos in Town – A Michelin Bib Gourmand eatery that offers an authentic yet contemporary take on Lao dishes accompanied by fresh desserts and creative cocktails.
Padaek – Located in Northern Virginia, this family-run spot specializes in home-style Lao dishes, including hearty soups, grilled meats, and house-made sausages.
Yellow
Middle Eastern Cuisine
Washington DC’s Mediterranean and Middle Eastern food scene is a reflection of the region’s rich cultural diversity. Immigrants from Lebanon, Syria, Turkey, Israel, Palestine, and Iran have brought their culinary traditions to the city, preserving recipes that have been passed down for generations. Yellow is a vibrant Levantine café and bakery offering a modern twist on Middle Eastern flavors. Led by acclaimed chef Michael Rafidi, the Michelin Bib Gourmand eatery specializes in freshly baked pastries, rich coffee, and flavorful mezze. We’re big fans of the wood-fired pita sandwiches filled with spiced lamb or roasted cauliflower, and bold, aromatic dips like hummus with harissa. The perfect balance of tradition and innovation, as well as the use of high-quality ingredients make Yellow a must-visit for those looking to explore the rich flavors of the Levant in a casual yet stylish setting.
Other top Middle Eastern Restaurants in DC
Ottoman Taverna – Ottoman Taverna is a stylish Turkish restaurant in Washington DC, known for its authentic Anatolian cuisine and warm, inviting atmosphere. This upscale eatery offers a menu rich in traditional Turkish flavors, from sizzling lamb kebabs to freshly baked pide (Turkish flatbread).
Maydan – A Michelin-starred restaurant specializing in open-fire cooking, featuring incredible kebabs, flatbreads, and bold, smoky flavors.
Mama Ayesha’s – A DC institution serving Palestinian cuisine since the 1960s, known for its traditional dishes and cozy atmosphere.
Jaleo
Spanish cuisine
Washington DC’s Spanish food scene has been largely shaped by one man, Chef José Andrés. The internationally renowned, Michelin-starred chef has made DC a hub for authentic and innovative Spanish cuisine. José Andrés first arrived in Washington DC in the early 1990s and his impressive collection of restaurants pay homage to Spain’s diverse culinary traditions, from the bustling tapas bars of Madrid to the seafood-rich coasts of Valencia. Beyond his culinary success, Andrés is also known for his humanitarian efforts through World Central Kitchen, a nonprofit dedicated to providing meals in crisis situations. He’s often credited with starting the small plate craze in the United States, and Jaleo is a shining example of this movement. You’ll find all the essential Spanish tapas at Jaleo, though all with an innovative twist. The Paella features angel-hair pasta instead of rice, and the Patatas Bravas is served with a refreshing lemon aioli.
Other top Spanish restaurants in DC
Boqueria – A lively tapas bar offering a mix of classic and modern Spanish dishes, including an excellent selection of sangrias.
Xiquet by Danny Lledó – A Michelin-starred Spanish restaurant specializing in high-end Valencian cuisine, with a strong focus on seafood and paella.
Food Halls & Culinary Hubs: A World of Flavors Under One Roof
If you’re having trouble deciding on a particular cuisine, Washington DC also has a growing number of food halls and multi-concept dining spaces that allow visitors to sample a variety of global cuisines in one place. These vibrant culinary hubs are perfect for groups with different tastes, adventurous eaters looking to try multiple dishes, or anyone who wants to experience the city’s rich food culture in a casual, lively setting.
Compass Rose Bar + Kitchen
Global Street Food
Adopted from a J.R.R. Tolkien poem in the The Lord of the Rings, the tagline for Compass Rose Bar + Kitchen is “Not all who wander are lost”. It's apt given the restaurant’s focus on eclectic global street food. Peruse the menu and you’ll see dishes representing cuisines from across the world as disparate as Argentinian Asado to Georgian Khachapuri. The owner, Rose Previte, visited more than 30 countries in 3 years while her husband was stationed in Russia. She returned to Washington DC with a passion for diverse cultures and incorporated different elements into her restaurants. The concept here is shared plates, so sit down with friends and explore the tastes of the world together.
The Wharf
Municipal Fish Market & More
The Wharf is built around the Municipal Fish Market, the oldest continuously operating open-air fish market in the United States. Dating back to 1805, the market has been a cornerstone of DC’s seafood scene for over two centuries, serving up fresh crabs, oysters, shrimp, and fish straight from the boats. In recent years, The Wharf has undergone a massive revitalization, transforming the area into a world-class dining, shopping, and entertainment district. The redeveloped space maintains its maritime roots while adding sleek, contemporary restaurants, rooftop bars, and lively promenades, making it a must-visit for locals and tourists alike.
Must-Try Spots at The Wharf:
Mi Vida - Upscale Mexican
NaRa-Ya - Stylish Japanese izakaya
Hank’s Oyster Bar - Classic seafood
Union Market
DC’s Premier Food Hall
Union Market is one of Washington DC’s most vibrant and diverse food halls, bringing together a curated mix of global flavors, artisan food vendors, and local culinary talent. Located in the heart of the city’s NoMa neighborhood, Union Market was originally established as a wholesale food market in the 1930s. Today, it has transformed into a thriving, contemporary food hall while maintaining its roots as a community gathering space. The industrial-chic setting—high ceilings, open communal tables, and a mix of indoor and outdoor seating—adds to its energetic and welcoming atmosphere.
Must-Try Spots at Union Market:
TaKorean - Korean-Mexican fusion tacos
Puddin’ - New Orleans-style shrimp and grits
Stellina Pizzeria - Modern Italian street food
La Cosecha
Latin American Culinary and Cultural Market
Located near Union Market, La Cosecha is Washington DC’s premier destination for Latin American food, art, and culture. The name La Cosecha means "the harvest" in Spanish, reflecting its mission to showcase the bounty and diversity of Latin America through food, drink, and craftsmanship. Designed as a marketplace and cultural hub, La Cosecha brings together renowned chefs, emerging restaurateurs, artists, and small businesses from across the Americas, making it a one-of-a-kind gathering place in DC.
Must-Try Spots at La Cosecha:
El Cielo - Michelin-starred Colombian fine dining
Serenata - Latin-inspired craft cocktails
La Casita Pupuseria - authentic Salvadoran pupusas
Peruvian Brothers - Peruvian sandwiches and empanadas
Conclusion
Washington DC is far more than the nation’s capital, it’s a culinary crossroads where global cultures meet on the plate. Many of the city’s chefs and restaurateurs are immigrants, second-generation entrepreneurs, and cultural ambassadors, using food to share their heritage with the community. As a visitor, engaging with DC’s culinary offerings means immersing yourself in a global narrative shaped by flavor, resilience, and creativity. So come hungry, stay curious, and let your taste buds guide you.
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