TThingsToDC

Editorial List

8 Best Date-Night Restaurants in DC

Bookable, walkable, and actually romantic — not just loud and expensive.

The ThingsToDC Editors

The ThingsToDC Editors

Published August 20, 2025 · Updated May 2, 2026

8 Best Date-Night Restaurants in DC

No. 1

Le Diplomate

u street · $$$

Le Diplomate

Le Dip has been the city's best date-night answer for a decade. The bar seats are more fun than a booth and the steak frites is not a cliche on purpose.

Visit page

No. 2

Columbia Room

u street · $$$$

Columbia Room

If they take cocktails seriously, bring them to Columbia Room. James Beard award, tasting-menu format, hidden in Blagden Alley. Reservation is essential.

Visit page

No. 3

Blues Alley

georgetown · $$$

Blues Alley

Dinner plus jazz in the oldest continuously operating jazz club in the country. It is a more interesting evening than another tasting menu.

Visit page