9 Date Night Restaurants in Washington, DC
Date night restaurants in Washington, DC, are subjective based on your budget and the vibe you are looking for. When I’m looking for a romantic spot in the city, I’m looking for a cozy atmosphere with great food. These meals usually have a higher price point than a regular dinner, but I’m always looking for something that offers a good value. These are a few of my favorite spots around the city that make date night extra special.
Iron Gate: Iron Gate offers cozy indoor and outdoor seating – perfect for date night. $80 per person gets you three courses, and I have never left hungry. The menu rotates regularly, so there are new things to try each season. If you aren’t ready to commit to a full dinner at Iron Gate, check out their cozy bar away from the main dining area with some of my favorite cocktails in the city.
Maydan: Tucked away off Florida Avenue near 14th Street is Maydan, a vibrant spot with Middle Eastern-inspired food. Enjoy the Tawle menu for $75 per person, which is meant to be enjoyed family style. You’ll choose a center plate (vegetarian option available), and your server will guide you through the rest.
Namo Ko: Namo Ko, a Japanese restaurant on 14th Street, is a little on the larger side but offers low lighting and an amazing menu. Choose from their extensive sushi menu or try one of their rotating featured entrees. On a budget? Look out for Namo Ko’s happy hour from 4 to 7 pm (including sushi), half off wine and sake on Wednesday and Sunday, and during Restaurant Week for special menus.
Pappe: Pappe in Logan Circle is on the smaller side, creating a cozy and romantic atmosphere for a date night restaurant in Washington, DC. The dishes focus on north Indian cuisine with both traditional and modern elements. Every dish is full of big colors and flavors for a memorable date night.
The Hamilton: The Hamilton sometimes gets left off local lists like this because it’s a larger space that attracts many tourists. The large menu will please almost any crowd, and its location near the White House makes it a great stop after sightseeing. However, as a local, I always find The Hamilton offers a great meal in a classic DC setting. If your date night is flexible, check out who is playing in their event space and add a show to your dinner date.
Tiger Fork: Tiger Fork in Blagdon Alley offers memorable Chinese dishes with a rustic atmosphere. The plates are easy to share, so you can try a variety of dishes with your date. A few of my favorites are the mushroom and broccoli dumplings, fried rice, and monkey king bread. You’ll find plenty of meat options on the menu, but this restaurant is also a great option for vegetarians. Grab drinks before your meal nearby at Calico.
Chloe: Chloe in Navy Yard offers small plates that are easy to share with romantic seating. I like to build a meal with staples like their ahi tuna tartare, fingerling potatoes, pasta or vegetable dishes, and at least one meat dish. If you’re on a budget, look out for Chloe’s menu during Restaurant Week, which has great deals for both dinner and brunch.
The Point: One of my favorite spots overlooking the water is The Point. This more modern spot offers excellent seafood dishes, including the memorable warm crab doughnuts. While I almost always order seafood at The Point, they also offer pizzas and land meat options.
Stable: Nothing says romance like a fondue night! Head to Stable on H Street for a cozy, Switz Alps-inspired experience. Enjoy cheese fondue with bread or choose from one of their main entrees. Book early to get a private chalet!