Avocado Toast at Lia's

Getting The Most Out of Restaurant Week Around DC

ByKelley Smith

There’s no way around it. It was a tough year for a lot of our favorite restaurants in and around Washington, DC. And winter is generally a slower time for eating out. 

When is Winter Restaurant Week 2021?

Washington, DC Restaurant Week: January 18-31, 2021. Participating restaurants will offer both dine-in and take out options. Offerings include two dinner price points at $35 and $55 plus lunch/brunch for $22.

Alexandria Restaurant Week: January 22 – February 7. All offers are take-out only. Find meals for $49 for two or $25 for one. 

How Do You Get the Most out of Restaurant Week?

Look for drink specials.  Take-out style restaurant week means there are a few extra things to look out for. In both DC and Old Town, many restaurants are including wine, beer, or a cocktail. Usually, drinks are extra so this is a great way to build a big meal for 1 inclusive price. 

Find a full menu offer: Some restaurants will offer a limited menu as part of their restaurant week deal.  Look for a spot that offers either the full menu or a large portion of the regular menu. 

Be mindful of drinks: Most deals do not include drinks – both alcohol and non-alcoholic. Some restaurants may offer wine specials or brunch cocktail specials but keep in mind this will be an additional cost. 

Make a reservation early: Try to make your Restaurant Week reservation at least a week in advance.  If it’s typically a popular spot, reservations will go fast! 

Explore a new spot off the beaten path: This won’t necessarily save you money but I personally like to use Restaurant Week and an excuse to explore a new neighborhood.  For me, this means exploring an area that is not metro accessible or  choosing a place that is normally a bit outside my

Go for lunch or brunch: The lunch option for restaurant week is less expensive but most places still offer a wide selection of their regular menu.  A few years ago, my husband and I visited GrillFish for lunch.  We were so full and happy by the end, we just needed a little snack for dinner. Stuck in a 9 to 5 during the week? Round up your co-workers for a special lunch date and check out a spot near your office.  It’s a good excuse to get a little outside my comfort zone.