Washington, D.C., goes beyond being the capital, with powerful political institutions, iconic monuments, and rich history. It is a popular destination that keeps evolving every year. With many incredible things to explore in Washington, D.C., every visitor can find something for himself.
In addition to being a political center, the nation's capital also set the course for becoming one of the best U.S. cities for foodies. Washington, D.C., has an incredible culinary scene where regional cuisine perfectly mixes with international delicacies, creating unique tastes one can hardly find in other states.
10 Give A Try To 40-Layer Lasagna
In 2021, one Italian restaurant broke new ground by introducing 40-layer lasagna, quickly becoming an epic killer dish in Washington, D.C. In fact, it became so popular that even former President Obama and the First Lady popped by to try this rule-breaking lasagna!
Some may say it's not worth the hype. But the truth is locals absolutely love it, and today, the 40-layer lasagna tops the must-try list of every foodie who visits the town!
9 Check Out Popular Themed Bars
Washington, D.C., has many top-notch bars where partygoers can experience the vibrant nightlife. But sometimes visitors want something more than just a fancy drink. They want something that is... exceptional and out of the ordinary.
Pub and bar owners in Washington, D.C., understood the assignment and opened many fun places. Some of the bars that met (and even exceeded) the visitors' expectations are Trusty's, which holds an open mic once per week; Sparrow Room, where visitors can play mahjong; and a secret bar, The Mirror.
8 Sample DC's Mambo Sauce
Mambo Sauce (Washingtonians also call it mumbo and tomato) is a sweet-and-sour sauce that locals add to literally... everything they eat! Whether it's chicken wings, french fries, fried rice, or even seafood.
Interestingly, the sauce was created in Chicago, but it quickly became popular in D.C. Today, foodies can try it in any Chinese and soul food restaurant.
7 Try Korean BBQ With American Twist
There is something special about Korean BBQ. It's not only delectable meat but also a unique cooking process where diners can witness the meal preparation from the beginning until the end.
D.C. metro area has the third-largest Korean community in the country, and the capital has no shortage of great Korean restaurants.
6 Discover Regional Cuisine At The Dabney
There is no better place to try authentic D.C. food than The Dabney. It's a fancy, one-Michelin-star restaurant that focuses on serving seasonal meals inspired by local ingredients. The six-course menu costs $150 to $160 and will impress even the pickiest gourmet experts.
5 Blue And Stone Crabs Can't Be Missed
When foodies want fresh blue or stone crabs, they usually think about Maryland and its best crab houses. However, Washington, D.C., can easily compete with its famous neighbor.
The capital has many excellent restaurants, with Capital Crab, Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab, and Hot N Juicy Crawfish being one of the finest dining options.
4 Grab A Giant Pizza Slice
While spending a day in Washington, D.C., one should grab a massive slice of pizza and eat it on the go. It may not be the most extraordinary food in the capital, but this street food fills the soul.
Adams Morgan is the most famous place to try the pizza slice that will hardly fit even on two plates.
3 Have A Proper Burger At Soko Butcher
A gourmet tour in Washington, D.C., can't be complete without a good burger from Soko Butcher. Located in Takoma Park, this place is a dream-come-true of any meat lover! Besides trying mind-blowing burgers, visitors can also buy high-quality local meat products.
2 Find The Freshest Pastries At Bread Furst
The best way to start the morning is with a freshly-baked pastry and a cup of aroma coffee. In Washington, D.C., this place is Bread Furst, where one can find multiple sweet cakes, pastries, and cookies, as well as salty options like an egg sandwich. In any case, this place is worth a try!
1 It's Always Pupusa O'Clock
Since Salvadorans are the largest immigrant population in Washington, D.C., Salvadoran food traditions have also impacted the capital's cuisine.
Pupusa is a Salvadoran flatbread that one can find everywhere in the capital, from small food stalls called pupuserias to restaurants. This comfort food is accompanied by a curtido (typical Salvadoran cabbage salad) and salsa.