Diners' Choice: Romantic restaurants in Washington, D.C. Area

OpenTable

Updated April 05, 2025

Looking for restaurants that are the most romantic in Washington, D.C. Area? You’re in the right place. Each month, OpenTable analyzes nearly 2 million global diner reviews from the past four months. We sort the results by location and category to help you discover new favorite restaurants. It's a great partnership: you reserve, eat, and review. We listen...and deliver the results for all to benefit. Enjoy!

The Restaurant at Patowmack Farm

5.0

5 (1693)

$50 and over

American

Lovettsville

About the restaurant

Voted 2024 #1 Northern VA Magazine - "Michelin inspectors, take note."

Sourcing food and supporting local artisan growers and producers and utilizing our farm as the chefs pantry gives us the opportunity to create an evolving menu that draws its inspiration from the seasons and in harmony with the earth. The venue has a breathtaking view and natural setting overlooking the Potomac River.

We offer a tasting menu Thursday through Sunday evenings. Please visit our website at www.patowmackfarm.com for the menu.

Weddings, rehearsal dinners, corporate or special events – we strive to exceed your dreams. Innovative and skillfully executed dishes follow the lead of nature, being mindful of the environment.

Due to the style of menu on special events and holidays and the complexities involved with individual and specific food allergies, we are unable to accommodate dietary restrictions on those days. We make every effort to provide vegetarian and accommodate gluten sensitivities.

Top review

Terry

Dined 6 days ago

Wonderful atmosphere, particularly when the weather allows dining on the patio. The menu is varied and quite delightful.

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Experience

Pancake Breakfast Chefscycle Fundraiser, 4/27/2025

La Bonne Vie

4.7

4.7 (77)

$31 to $50

French

Herndon

About the restaurant

Nestled in Herndon, our restaurant radiates the timeless charm of a Parisian bistro, offering a menu that celebrates classic French entrees with our own twist. Each dish is a testament to our commitment to quality and authenticity, crafted with passion and precision by our talented chef. From Trout Amandine to Steak Frites, every bite at La Bonne Vie is a journey through the flavors and traditions that define French gastronomy.

At La Bonne Vie, we believe that dining is more than just a meal; it's an experience that enriches life and creates lasting memories. Our warm and inviting atmosphere, paired with attentive service and a thoughtfully curated wine selection, invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and indulge in the simple pleasures of good food and good company. Whether you're seeking a romantic evening out or a gathering with friends and family, La Bonne Vie welcomes you to embrace "the good life" in every delicious bite.

Top review

BrianVIP

Dined 4 days ago

Very nice service and tempting menu for sure. Lamb chops were tender and flavorful. One of the few places you can find nicely prepared steak tartare.

Mercy Me

4.7

4.7 (36)

$30 and under

South American

Foggy Bottom

About the restaurant

Inside Yours Truly DC Hotel, Mercy Me is a vibrant blend of South American flavors, inventive cocktails, and lively energy. More than a restaurant, it’s a place where tradition and innovation collide, celebrating the evolution of Latin America’s dynamic food scene.

This season, step onto the patio behind Mercy Me for our latest transformation—The Blossom Garden, inspired by the beauty of Japanese Sakura Blossoms. While our menu stays rooted in South American flavors, we’re introducing a Nikkei-inspired section, paying homage to the Japanese influence on Peruvian and Brazilian cuisine.

Here, delicate Japanese techniques meet bold Latin ingredients, blending umami depth with bright, citrusy spice. Of course, you’ll still find the Mercy Me favorites you love, alongside new dishes that bridge continents in unexpected ways.

Top review

Daniel

Dined today

Hansy provided the best possible dining experience. 10/10

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a.lounge+bar - Alexandria

4.7

4.7 (24)

$30 and under

American

Alexandria

About the restaurant

Featuring a mid-Atlantic inspired menu, a.lounge+bar delivers a captivating culinary experience in Old Town, Alexandria. Dive into fresh seafood dishes, such as Rappahannock oysters and expertly grilled whole branzino, or savor expertly crafted classics like our Amish chicken and prime steak & frites. Complement your meal with ingredient-driven cocktails inspired by Old Town's rich history or choose from our list of world-renowned wines. Enjoy al fresco dining on our expansive patio as the sun sets or sip handcrafted cocktails beneath the ethereal "mamacloud" floating above our bar, adding a touch of whimsy to your evening. Whether you're unwinding with happy hour drinks, catching up with friends, or simply indulging in a night out, a.lounge offers the perfect elegant and inviting setting.

Top review

AshlieVIP

Dined 5 days ago

Great vibes, great food, and great atmosphere. Definitely will be coming back. The Gorgonzola steak was amazing!

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Experience

Mother's Day Brunch

El Taller del Xiquet

4.6

4.6 (33)

$50 and over

Spanish

Georgetown

About the restaurant

El Taller del Xiquet, or “Xiquet’s workshop,” celebrates Spanish flavors with a dedication to quality. Chef Danny crafts imaginative dishes from the finest ingredients, showcasing the vibrant cuisine of his roots. Our menu offers a seasonal selection of à la carte items and shareable plates, inviting you to explore the richness of both land and sea.

Inspired by the traditions of coastal Spain, each dish reflects a respect for local agriculture and sustainable practices. This commitment is seen in premium proteins and seasonal produce from the Valencian region, highlighting the essence of Spanish gastronomy. Delicate octopus, sweet scallops, and succulent prawns are prepared with artistry and passion, while dishes like sustainable sea bass gravlax, signature paellas, and generous fideuàs are served tableside. El Taller del Xiquet offers a culinary journey into Spain’s traditions, honoring the ingredients and techniques that have graced tables for generations.

Top review

YaseminVIP

Dined on Apr 11, 2025

From the moment we arrived, the entire experience was amazing. Chef Danny and his incredible team delivered perfection in every detail - from the flawless service and exquisite presentation to the outstanding food and wine. Everything was absolutely delicious! The staff was warm, attentive, and made us feel truly welcome. Perfection worthy of a Michelin star!

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Itsasmendi and Valtravieso x El Taller del Xiquet

Ruth's Chris Steak House - Arlington

4.5

4.5 (3979)

$50 and over

Steakhouse

Arlington

About the restaurant

Now Open: We look forward to serving you soon.

Ruth's Chris Steak House in Arlington, VA serves the finest USDA Prime beef available, broiled at 1,800° and served on 500° plates, so your steak stays hot, juicy and delicious from first bite to last. Enjoy our New Orleans-inspired appetizers, USDA Prime steaks, fresh seafood, signature side dishes and homemade desserts. All this while you enjoy our warm, inviting atmosphere and Ruth’s Chris’ genuine hospitality. So whether you’re a regular or have just been wondering what all the buzz is about, Ruth's Chris is the perfect excuse to enjoy the perfect night out. Dinner is served nightly, reservations are suggested and private dining and offsite catering may be arranged.

Top review

Tara

Dined 7 days ago

Our waiter was incredible, the host staff were also warm and inviting — such a great view, amazing food, and the best way to spend my birthday every year.

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Popular dish

Stuffed Chicken Breast

Popular dish

Ribeye

Popular dish

Bone-In New York Strip

Maggiano's - Chevy Chase

4.5

4.5 (2775)

$30 and under

Italian

Friendship Heights

About the restaurant

Join us for lunch or dinner at Maggiano's Chevy Chase and savor the rich flavors of Italian-American dishes inspired by Nonna’s traditional recipes. Our location offers a city atmosphere in the heart of DC. Chevy Chase is a well-known suburb-in-the-city with a strong community connection that offers a great atmosphere. Visit us at 5333 Wisconsin Ave. NW and book your reservation today!

Top review

RebeccaO

Dined on Mar 22, 2025

Excellent food, service and ambiance. I could go there every week and never tire of it.

The Melting Pot - Gaithersburg

4.2

4.2 (2071)

$31 to $50

Fondue

Gaithersburg

About the restaurant

The Melting Pot offers an extraordinary dining experience that you won't find at any other restaurant. Here, you'll discover all the ingredients to a perfect evening, including a relaxed atmosphere, private tables, attentive service, fine wines & cocktails, as well as fabulous four-course fondue dinners. No matter what the occasion, from a romantic date to a get together with friends, meetings, or large groups, The Melting Pot always provides fun & lasting memories. Make reservations today & come dip into something different.

Top review

Thomas

Dined 7 days ago

We brought our family to the restaurant on Thursday, April 17th for dinner, and it didn't go well--long delays, issues with service, etc--leading us to leave without eating. The owner and manager reached out to apologize and asked us to try again; we returned Monday, April 21st to a truly excellent dining experience. The service was stellar, the food was fantastic, and we truly felt appreciated as customers. TONS of gluten free options, felt like a great, safe place to eat with an allergy. I would absolutely recommend the Gaithersburg Melting Pot after tonight's dinner; we will be returning!

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Popular dish

Pure Chocolate Fondue

Upstairs at the Morrow

3.8

3.8 (25)

$31 to $50

Contemporary European

NoMa

About the restaurant

The Upstairs rooftop restaurant is temporarily closed for renovation and has relocated to the lobby at The Morrow. Now operating as an American brasserie, we offer seasonal cuisine and handcrafted cocktails from morning to night in a vibrant indoor-outdoor setting.

Top review

CourtneeVIP

Dined on Mar 18, 2025

Perfect spot for rooftop drinks on a nice day! Will definitely be back.

Ristorante La Perla of Washington

3.7

3.7 (1570)

$31 to $50

Italian

Georgetown

About the restaurant

The restaurant of choice of many distinguished diners and restaurant critics, Ristorante La Perla of Washington, located near Georgetown at the tail-end of the historic Pennsylvania Avenue, takes its diners on a culinary journey through Italy with elegant decor surpassed only by authentic mouth-watering Italian masterpieces. During Lunch and Dinner hours, pastas and flavorful sauces simmer while prime meats, poultry, seafood and vegetables roast to treat diners to a little bit of heaven, with a long lasting memory for your taste buds, thanks to the vision of famous chef Vittorio Testa, who has kept alive the Italian culinary tradition for over three decades.

Chef-Owner Vittorio Testa will make you feel like you're dining in his house. The waiters exceed expectations, and the space is garnished with painted tiles and Venetian glass to make every dining occasion a memorable one. There's also Private dining and Outdoor seating when the weather permits.

Top review

KellyVIP

Dined 7 days ago

This is our favorite DC restaurant! Chef Testa is always so nice to our family and the food and service are wonderful!! We come here every time we visit DC and it’s always great!

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