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Best Contemporary French Restaurants in Arlington, Washington, D.C. Area

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12 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of La Chaumiere restaurant
1. La Chaumiere
4.8
Exceptional(5144)
$$$$
• Contemporary french • Georgetown
Booked 13 times today
Nestled in the charming Georgetown neighborhood of Washington, La Chaumière offers an exquisite journey into the heart of Contemporary French cuisine. This celebrated restaurant has been perfecting its craft for over 48 years, earning its spot among the "100 Best Restaurants" an impressive 29 times since 1978. Guests rave about its authentic offerings, with dishes like "boudin blanc and quenelles of pike" being standout favorites. The ambiance, described as a quaint French country inn, provides a perfect backdrop for savoring Chef Javier's innovative creations. Diners consistently laud the "superb food and impeccable service," making La Chaumière a must-visit destination for French culinary enthusiasts.
A photo of Cafe Du Parc restaurant
2. Cafe Du Parc
4.5
Awesome(2713)
$$$$
• Contemporary french • Downtown
Booked 45 times today
Cafe Du Parc, nestled in the heart of Washington, D.C., within the historic Willard InterContinental, offers a delightful French American dining experience that echoes the charm of a Parisian café. This restaurant is renowned for its authentic French cuisine, with dishes that transport diners straight to France, like the "as good as if eating it in Paris" Onion Soup. Located conveniently between the White House and the U.S. Capitol, it provides a perfect spot for both locals and visitors. Diners frequently praise the "wonderful food, great service," and the outdoor terrace offers an idyllic setting for al fresco dining.
A photo of Et Voila restaurant
3. Et Voila
4.9
Exceptional(4301)
$$$$
• Contemporary french • Palisades Northwest
Booked 49 times today
Et Voila, nestled in the charming Palisades Northwest neighborhood of Washington, is a haven for those seeking authentic Belgian cuisine. Celebrated for its "wonderful neighborhoodish" vibe and exceptional service, this restaurant offers a taste of Belgium through dishes like mussels mariniere and Belgian fries, praised as "hard to beat." Guests are consistently delighted by the flavorful, made-from-scratch menu that harmonizes classic European bistro fare with sophisticated daily specials. Diners rave about the "fabulous French onion soup" and "rich Belgian beers," ensuring an unforgettable culinary journey. With its cozy atmosphere and warm hospitality, Et Voila is a must-visit for any Belgian food enthusiast.
A photo of Central Michel Richard restaurant
4. Central Michel Richard
4.7
Exceptional(7509)
$$$$
• Contemporary french • Penn Quarter
Booked 24 times today
Central Michel Richard in Penn Quarter, Washington, is a gem for Contemporary French / American cuisine, seamlessly blending French elegance with American flair. Celebrated as a "long-time favorite" by patrons, its menu features standout dishes like the award-winning fried chicken and delectable desserts. The restaurant's vibrant ambiance and impeccable service enhance the dining experience, making it a "wonderful spot for larger groups or an intimate dinner for two." With its prime location near iconic landmarks, Central Michel Richard is not just a meal, but a destination. “The food is amazing,” rave diners, affirming its status as a culinary treasure in D.C.
A photo of Bresca restaurant
Icon
5. Bresca
4.5
Awesome(1250)
$$$$
• Contemporary french • U Street Corridor
Booked 26 times today
Bresca, located in the lively U Street Corridor of Washington, is a beacon of authentic French cuisine, skillfully blending traditional techniques with contemporary flair. Diners rave about the exquisite "balance of flavors" in each dish, with the tasting menu being a particular highlight that "simply does not miss." The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in its use of the finest seasonal ingredients, creating dishes that are both innovative and deeply rooted in French culinary tradition. Guests are treated to a dining experience that is "easily one of the best meals" they've ever had, complemented by impeccable service and a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. This makes Bresca a must-visit for those seeking a true taste of France in the heart of Washington.
A photo of Amélie DC Bistro & Wine Bar restaurant
6. Amélie DC Bistro & Wine Bar
4.6
Exceptional(80)
$$$$
• Contemporary french • Logan Circle
Booked 29 times today
Amélie brings the heart of Paris to Logan Circle. This contemporary French restaurant and wine bar features over 75 curated wines alongside modernized French classics by Chef Anthony Lemortellec. Dig into irresistible moules-frites, escargot, steak tartare, and generous cheese and charcuterie boards. Settle into a sunlit space for lively happy hours and weekend brunches, or catch the dinner vibe for intimate date nights and spirited group dinners. Rapidly becoming one of D.C.’s best wine bars and most coveted French restaurants, Amélie offers casual elegance and unforgettable flavor and atmosphere.
A photo of Bistrot Lepic & Wine Bar restaurant
7. Bistrot Lepic & Wine Bar
4.9
Exceptional(2750)
$$$$
• Contemporary french • Georgetown
Booked 38 times today
Bistrot Lepic & Wine Bar in Georgetown, Washington, is a cherished cornerstone of authentic Bistro cuisine, celebrating its 29th anniversary with unwavering dedication to French culinary traditions. The restaurant's commitment to quality is reflected in glowing reviews praising its "simple, elegant French Bistro cuisine" and "superb" dishes like beef medallions and escargot. The warm, attentive service and a cozy, inviting atmosphere make diners feel as though they've stepped into a "beloved neighborhood restaurant in Lyon." With an excellent wine list and jazz nights every Wednesday, Bistrot Lepic offers a quintessential French dining experience that "never disappoints."
A photo of a.kitchen+bar D.C. restaurant
8. a.kitchen+bar D.C.
4.7
Exceptional(181)
$$$$
• Contemporary french • West End
Booked 8 times today
a.kitchen+bar D.C. offers an extraordinary French dining experience in the heart of Washington DC's West End. With an innovative menu that captures the essence of French cuisine through "fresh, flavorful, beautiful presentation," this restaurant stands out for its inventive yet authentic approach. Guests are consistently impressed by the "impeccable" service and expertly curated wine list, which features natural varieties that perfectly complement the delectable dishes. The restaurant's ambiance exudes warmth and elegance, making it an ideal spot for both casual dinners and special occasions. Diners rave about the "delicious, complex flavors," ensuring that a.kitchen+bar D.C. provides an authentic taste of France in every bite.
A photo of Opaline Bar and Brasserie restaurant
9. Opaline Bar and Brasserie
4.1
Excellent(342)
$$$$
• Contemporary french • Downtown
Booked 14 times today
Opaline Bar and Brasserie in Downtown Washington DC offers a sublime Afternoon Tea experience that is both authentic and enchanting. Guests have raved about the "Petit Prince-themed tea," describing it as "fun and delicious" with an impeccable service that is "perfectly paced, neither rushed nor forgotten." The curated selection of pastries and mini-sandwiches is praised for its delightful taste, with patrons noting that "nothing else compares" to Opaline's offerings. The ambiance is described as "refined yet not stuffy," providing a serene escape from city life. With attentive staff catering to dietary needs, Opaline ensures a memorable and inclusive afternoon for all.
A photo of 2941 Restaurant restaurant
10. 2941 Restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(7971)
$$$$
• Contemporary french • Falls Church
Booked 16 times today
Nestled in the heart of Falls Church, VA, 2941 Restaurant offers a truly enchanting French culinary experience. With Chef Bertrand Chemel at the helm, diners are treated to "spectacular food" that marries contemporary American cuisine with bold French and Mediterranean flavors. The restaurant’s commitment to authenticity shines through in dishes like the "outstanding" sea bass and "excellent" duck, which have left patrons raving. The ambiance is both sophisticated and relaxed, providing a perfect backdrop for the "wonderful dining experience" many have praised. Recognized as one of the "100 Very Best Restaurants" by Washingtonian Magazine, 2941 Restaurant continually delights with its "superb" service and "divine" food.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • MikeGold
    Washington, D.C. Area •147 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Wonderful as always. Our waiter knew just when to offer suggestions and was ready to make our experience flawless. The appetizers are terrific, especially the escargot. Dover sole with a lemon butter sauce and soft shell crabs. Delightful!
    More info
    La Chaumiere$$$$• French• Georgetown
    •
    4.8
  • Westporter
    Washington, D.C. Area •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Always a pleasure to dine here. Lovely nquiet atmosphere, Wonderful food. Excellent service..
    More info
    Matisse$$$$• Contemporary French• Tenleytown
    •
    4.8
  • OpenTable Diner
    Washington, D.C. Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Amazing experience. The food was excellent and the staff were very friendly and attentive.
    More info
    Cafe Du Parc$$$$• Contemporary French• Downtown
    •
    4.5

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