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Best Contemporary French Restaurants in Washington DC

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11 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of La Chaumiere restaurant
1. La Chaumiere
4.8
Exceptional(5165)
$$$$
• Contemporary french • Georgetown
Booked 23 times today
Nestled in the charming Georgetown neighborhood of Washington, La Chaumière offers an exquisite journey into the heart of Contemporary French cuisine. This celebrated restaurant has been perfecting its craft for over 48 years, earning its spot among the "100 Best Restaurants" an impressive 29 times since 1978. Guests rave about its authentic offerings, with dishes like "boudin blanc and quenelles of pike" being standout favorites. The ambiance, described as a quaint French country inn, provides a perfect backdrop for savoring Chef Javier's innovative creations. Diners consistently laud the "superb food and impeccable service," making La Chaumière a must-visit destination for French culinary enthusiasts.
A photo of 2941 Restaurant restaurant
2. 2941 Restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(7989)
$$$$
• Contemporary french • Falls Church
Booked 24 times today
Nestled in the heart of Falls Church, VA, 2941 Restaurant offers a truly enchanting French culinary experience. With Chef Bertrand Chemel at the helm, diners are treated to "spectacular food" that marries contemporary American cuisine with bold French and Mediterranean flavors. The restaurant’s commitment to authenticity shines through in dishes like the "outstanding" sea bass and "excellent" duck, which have left patrons raving. The ambiance is both sophisticated and relaxed, providing a perfect backdrop for the "wonderful dining experience" many have praised. Recognized as one of the "100 Very Best Restaurants" by Washingtonian Magazine, 2941 Restaurant continually delights with its "superb" service and "divine" food.
A photo of Et Voila restaurant
3. Et Voila
4.8
Exceptional(4322)
$$$$
• Contemporary french • Palisades Northwest
Booked 64 times today
Et Voila, nestled in the charming Palisades Northwest neighborhood of Washington, is a haven for those seeking authentic Belgian cuisine. Celebrated for its "wonderful neighborhoodish" vibe and exceptional service, this restaurant offers a taste of Belgium through dishes like mussels mariniere and Belgian fries, praised as "hard to beat." Guests are consistently delighted by the flavorful, made-from-scratch menu that harmonizes classic European bistro fare with sophisticated daily specials. Diners rave about the "fabulous French onion soup" and "rich Belgian beers," ensuring an unforgettable culinary journey. With its cozy atmosphere and warm hospitality, Et Voila is a must-visit for any Belgian food enthusiast.
A photo of Cafe Du Parc restaurant
4. Cafe Du Parc
4.6
Exceptional(2726)
$$$$
• Contemporary french • Downtown
Booked 37 times today
Cafe Du Parc, nestled in the heart of Washington, D.C., within the historic Willard InterContinental, offers a delightful French American dining experience that echoes the charm of a Parisian café. This restaurant is renowned for its authentic French cuisine, with dishes that transport diners straight to France, like the "as good as if eating it in Paris" Onion Soup. Located conveniently between the White House and the U.S. Capitol, it provides a perfect spot for both locals and visitors. Diners frequently praise the "wonderful food, great service," and the outdoor terrace offers an idyllic setting for al fresco dining.
A photo of Amélie DC Bistro & Wine Bar restaurant
5. Amélie DC Bistro & Wine Bar
4.6
Exceptional(87)
$$$$
• Contemporary french • Logan Circle
Booked 30 times today
Amélie brings the heart of Paris to Logan Circle. This contemporary French restaurant and wine bar features over 75 curated wines alongside modernized French classics by Chef Anthony Lemortellec. Dig into irresistible moules-frites, escargot, steak tartare, and generous cheese and charcuterie boards. Settle into a sunlit space for lively happy hours and weekend brunches, or catch the dinner vibe for intimate date nights and spirited group dinners. Rapidly becoming one of D.C.’s best wine bars and most coveted French restaurants, Amélie offers casual elegance and unforgettable flavor and atmosphere.
A photo of Bresca restaurant
Icon
6. Bresca
4.5
Awesome(1273)
$$$$
• Contemporary french • U Street Corridor
Booked 49 times today
Bresca, located in the lively U Street Corridor of Washington, is a beacon of authentic French cuisine, skillfully blending traditional techniques with contemporary flair. Diners rave about the exquisite "balance of flavors" in each dish, with the tasting menu being a particular highlight that "simply does not miss." The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in its use of the finest seasonal ingredients, creating dishes that are both innovative and deeply rooted in French culinary tradition. Guests are treated to a dining experience that is "easily one of the best meals" they've ever had, complemented by impeccable service and a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. This makes Bresca a must-visit for those seeking a true taste of France in the heart of Washington.
A photo of Bistrot Lepic & Wine Bar restaurant
7. Bistrot Lepic & Wine Bar
4.8
Exceptional(2753)
$$$$
• Contemporary french • Georgetown
Booked 18 times today
Bistrot Lepic & Wine Bar in Georgetown, Washington, is a cherished cornerstone of authentic Bistro cuisine, celebrating its 29th anniversary with unwavering dedication to French culinary traditions. The restaurant's commitment to quality is reflected in glowing reviews praising its "simple, elegant French Bistro cuisine" and "superb" dishes like beef medallions and escargot. The warm, attentive service and a cozy, inviting atmosphere make diners feel as though they've stepped into a "beloved neighborhood restaurant in Lyon." With an excellent wine list and jazz nights every Wednesday, Bistrot Lepic offers a quintessential French dining experience that "never disappoints."
A photo of Rosemary Bistro Cafe restaurant
8. Rosemary Bistro Cafe
4.8
Exceptional(635)
$$$$
• Contemporary french • Friendship Heights
Booked 9 times today
Rosemary Bistro Cafe in Friendship Heights, Washington, D.C., truly shines as a beacon of authentic Asian cuisine. Diners rave about the “delicious and beautifully presented” dishes that capture the essence of Asian flavors with a unique twist, making every visit an exciting culinary adventure. Known for its “inventive twists on classic Asian favorites,” the cafe consistently delivers a delightful dining experience with a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Whether indulging in their creatively prepared meals or enjoying the attentive and friendly service, Rosemary Bistro Cafe stands out as a "neighborhood gem" that promises to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
A photo of Matisse restaurant
9. Matisse
4.8
Exceptional(1836)
$$$$
• Contemporary french • Tenleytown
Booked 12 times today
Nestled in the heart of Tenleytown, Washington, Matisse is celebrated for its exceptional Mediterranean cuisine that consistently delights diners. Praised for its "fabulous food and service," Matisse offers a menu that expertly blends classic Mediterranean flavors with innovative twists. Long-term patrons rave about its "delicious soft shell crab" and "perfect branzino," highlighting the restaurant's unwavering commitment to quality and authenticity. With a welcoming atmosphere and attentive service, Matisse is not just a meal but a memorable experience. Whether dining on the picturesque front patio or in the elegant upstairs dining room, guests are treated to "a truly wonderful time" every visit.
A photo of Opaline Bar and Brasserie restaurant
10. Opaline Bar and Brasserie
4.1
Excellent(345)
$$$$
• Contemporary french • Downtown
Booked 8 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.
‘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.

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