Best Date Night Spots In DC
Lifestyle
Beyond the chilly temps and chance of snow, the end of January means one thing for all you romantics out there: that Valentine’s Day is fast approaching. Whether you’re looking to treat your partner to a night on the town or sample new spots with friends (or a little bit of both), we’ve got you covered.
Keep reading for roundup of the best date night spots in DC!
#1 Anju: The way we see it, date night doesn’t need to be stuffy, and Anju is a prime example of a place that impresses by trading the overwrought for the understated. The much-lauded Korean restaurant is often seen among DC’s best restaurants — and with good reason. Bring a date ready to feast on pan-roasted duck breast and slurp up noodles in a spicy seafood broth with you. The innovative dishes will give you plenty to talk about, while white-washed brick, bamboo rattan seats, and plants within the space create a cozy, organic feel.
#2 The Dabney: The Dabney is one of those quintessential DC date spots that never gets old. The vibe and decor of the restaurant presents itself as warm and inviting, with a roaring hearth as the heart of the space. The fare, dreamed up by James Beard award-winner Jeremiah Langhorne, focuses on local flavors and ingredients while paying homage to the Mid-Atlantic region.
➤ Discover more creative date night in DC ideas here:
#3 Inn At Little Washington: Set in Virginia, this chateau and legendary restaurant requires a 90-minute journey outside of the city, making it an ideal staycation spot. The luxurious restaurant, decked out with rose-colored silk lampshades above each table, has maintained its position on best-of lists practically since its conception, when Patrick O’Connell first launched the idea back in 1978. Now, guests come from far and wide for a chance to try its adventurous plates that range from Caesar salad ice cream to lamb carpaccio. This is one of those restaurants you book for a very special occasion, as the tasting menu (and room reservation!) will set you back a pretty penny.
#4 Compass Rose: At Compass Rose, you’ll be able to travel the world from the comfort of your own table, just as owner and experienced traveler Rose Previte intended it. Compass Rose’s menu incorporates dishes from every corner of the world, ensuring you’ll get a taste of a different country or region every time you visit. The restaurant’s buzzy, relaxed atmosphere is perfect for a sensual yet low-key date!
#5 Fiola: Fiola offers a blend of seasonal, nostalgic, and contemporary Italian dishes that are sure to make anyone swoon. Chef Fabbio Trabocchi sources all his ingredients from Chancellor’s Rock Farm, a Rappahanock, Va, estate that acts as Fiola’s garden kitchen, so you know that at his restaurant you’ll get nothing but the best. Fiola offers two distinct dining experiences: You can have dinner in their main dining room and create your tasting menu of 5 or 6 different dishes, or you can dine at their Ezio Room, where you’ll be served from an abbreviated menu of appetizers, classic pasta dishes, and Fiola signature dishes.
Seeking a pre or post-dinner activity to round out the night? Check out our list of the best places to ice skate in DC.
