It’s true that there are many examples of French style and influence in Washington, D.C. The city has a long history of diplomatic ties with France and a strong French cultural presence.
Some examples of French influence in the city include the French Embassy, which is located on Reservoir Road. Additionally, the architecture of many buildings in Washington, D.C., including the White House and the National Archives Building, were inspired by classical French styles.
Because of this, French restaurants in Washington, DC, are abundant. French cuisine is known for its rich history and culinary traditions. French restaurants in Washington, DC, adds to the city’s diverse culinary scene, giving residents and visitors more options to explore different types of food and cultures.
Some of these are new French restaurants in Washington, DC, and bring in a fresh perspective to traditional French cuisine, incorporating modern cooking techniques, local ingredients, and unique flavors, which can help to expand and evolve the culinary scene in the city.
Le Diplomate – A famous French restaurant that offers classic bistro dishes in a lively and bustling atmosphere in the 14th Street Neighborhood.
NEW! Opaline Bar & Brasserie – Thoughtful, French-inspired cuisine and specialty drinks in the heart of Washington DC. – Best people watching views, and closest to the White House.
NEW! De LeSales – Raphael Francois introduces his first casual French restaurant to DC next door to the iconic Mayflower Hotel. Prior to launching Le DeSales, Raphael was executive chef at fine dining restaurants in Paris, London and New York.
Bistro Bis – This restaurant on Capitol Hill features traditional French cuisine with a contemporary twist and an extensive wine list.
NEW! Le Clou – A Modern French Brasserie – Inspired by France’s best new restaurants, rooted in classic flavors with a modern sensibility, Le Clou’s chef and owner Nicholas Stefanelli’s brasserie in The Morrow, in the NoMa and Union Market neighborhoods.
Marcel’s by Robert Wiedmaier – This high-end French restaurant near Foggy Bottom offers an elegant dining experience with a menu inspired by the French and Belgian countryside.
La Chaumière – This cozy, family-owned restaurant in Georgetown serves classic French cuisine in a charming, rustic setting.
NEW! Duck Duck Goose – A contemporary small plates brasserie in Dupont Circle with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients. Our ingredients are what set us apart from the rest. We source locally and seasonally to serve modern dishes with bold flavors.
Central Michel Richard – “An American restaurant with a French twist.” Ideally situated at the corner of 11th & Pennsylvania Ave NW, and named for its “central” downtown location, Central is just steps away from the National Mall, Smithsonian Museums, Capital One Arena, galleries, and downtown theatres.
NEW! Lutèce – You’ll see glimpses of Chef-Partner Matt Conroy’s diverse culinary background, from the Oaxaca-inspired Duck Carnitas paired with Buckwheat Galettes à la Brittany to the perfectly prepared Parisian Gnocchi. Situated in the historic Georgetown neighborhood in Washington, DC, they serve modern and simple French cuisine in a cozy setting.
NEW! Le Sel – Classic at its roots, Le Sel uses locally sourced ingredients to create elevated comfort food, served in an intimate environment with patio seating near Scott Circle.
The OG! Bistrot du Coin opened its doors on Memorial Day in 2000 by Yannis Felix and Michel Verdon. Their motto is French, Fun and Friendly, this is our guideline to bring you the best French experience ever.
French restaurants in Washington, DC, adds to the city’s cultural diversity, contributes to its economic growth, and promotes culinary innovation. Try one of them out today!
