Restaurants in National Harbor & Around Washington, D.C
Just outside D.C. you’ll find one of America’s culinary capitals.
The best food festivals and restaurants in the Washington, D.C. area are just over the Maryland border.
Historically, the Chesapeake Bay has been a vital source of sustenance for local communities, the fishing playing a pivotal role in shaping the area's culture and cuisine. At the numerous dining establishments in National Harbor, you'll discover an array of seafood offerings, showcasing the freshest catches from the Bay and beyond. Whether you're craving a casual experience of an upscale dining affair, this area satisfies any appetite with delectable seafood, paying homage to the area's rich fishing heritage with each bite.
Between the variety of options at National Harbor and the culinary gems sprinkled throughout Hyattsville, Silver Spring and everywhere in between, you’ll be eating well at these restaurants and food festivals near Washington, D.C.
Soak in views of the Potomac River from the Flight Deck outdoor lounge at the foot of the National Harbor Capital Wheel. Choose from the Flight Deck’s bar and snack options, and bring your finds on the wheel to experience a bird’s eye view of National Harbor and the nearby monuments. Sip a cocktail, like piña colada or refreshing sangria, while listening to the gentle waters lapping beside you.
Enjoy libations and cuisine from hundreds of world-renowned food and wine vendors at the “All-You-Care-To-Taste” National Food & Wine Festival. This waterfront affair at National Harbor is complete with a Rosé Garden, hands-on Tasting Theater and more.
“Born in 2014 with a very old soul,” this local franchise brings top-notch lobster straight from Maine to the coast of Maryland. Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls has the stamp of approval from lobster roll aficionados and first-time tasters alike with its straightforward and simple approach. Savor a fluffy roll full of large, buttery chunks of local lobster, or try the creamy lobster bisque, clam chowder and other dishes that exemplify the deliciousness of the area.
Check out the extensive Dim Sum menu at Ginger in the National Harbor. Or, enjoy signature dishes that represent a culinary tour of Asia — from Chinese to Thai, Vietnamese, Korean and Japanese dishes, like spring rolls and pad thai. That's one expansive menu!
A hub for creatives, activists and foodies, Busboys and Poets is named for the American poet Langston Hughes, who worked in D.C. as a busboy prior to gaining recognition as a poet. With multiple locations—one in Hyattsville, Maryland—Busboys and Poets was founded with a goal of fostering cultural connections and inspiring social change. The restaurant offers a fresh menu featuring breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner — try out cauliflower bites, vegan nachos, catfish fingers and other meals geared towards those with dietary needs. Because this restaurant is an all-in-one gathering space dedicated to enacting positive change, you can stay for open mic nights, poetry slams and live music.
From James Beard Award nominee Edward Lee comes soulful Southern fare, including fried green tomatoes, chicken and waffles topped with okra, and glazed pecan buns. Try the restaurant’s namesake Succotash, and taste how Lee’s Korean roots influence his take on Southern classics.
This food hall has something for everyone. Stroll around the market and pick up everything from tacos to bento, beers, crabcakes and pizza. Enjoy your food in the lively open seating, then go back for seconds (or thirds!) at another vendor.
With the plantain-based Mofongo as their specialty, this low-key, family-friendly restaurant brings homestyle Caribbean and Latin dishes to the greater D.C. area. This hidden gem is known to be frequented by the local Washington Nationals baseball team on the hunt for real deal Dominican and Puerto Rican flavors. Of course, you can't miss the plantain-focused mofongo dish plus camarones al ajillo — shrimp soaking in garlic sauce.
Located in the basement of a bank near the Capital Beltway, Tavira gives new meaning to the phrase “hidden gem.” This Portuguese and Meditterranean restaurant offers live music and serves up lunch and dinner classics like soups, grilled fish and seafood hot pots.
Earning numerous Best of Bethesda awards, Kadhai on Norfolk Ave serves up authentic Indian dishes and offers tons of vegetarian-friendly options. Diners love the lunch buffet, chicken masala, rogan josh and garlic naan.
Known for their appearances on Bravo’s Top Chef, Bryan and Michael Voltaggio joined forces to open this modern steakhouse in National Harbor. The dishes, decor and design details in Voltaggio Brothers Steak House all draw inspiration from Bryan and Michael’s home state—Maryland. Enjoy good, old-fashioned roasted Brussels sprouts, macaroni and cheese, crab cakes or espresso martinis.
This Asian-fusion spot serves dishes like drunken noodles, fried rice and tempura shrimp with elegant flare. Come for the delicious options and stay for the cozy-yet-luxurious atmosphere.
Delicious pizzas loaded with toppings, salads, appetizers and other Italian goods await. Don't miss out on these wood-fired pizzas, house-made pesto and spicy meatballs with spaghetti.
Welcome to an elegant atmosphere with tall windows — catch breathtaking views of the Potomac River and The towering, colorful Capital Wheel as you enjoy classic American eats. Savor chicken wings with fries, crab cakes and creamy soup, plus breakfast and brunch delights such as french toast and pancakes.
Dig into the succulence of the area's seafood influence here, including all-you-can-eat mussels, shrimp and crab legs. Plus, Asian cuisine like vegetable lo mein, cheese wontons and spring rolls add to the blend of delicious flavors.
Craving Mediterranean delights? Look no further than mezeh, where you can taste your favorite fresh flavors. Bowls packed with falafel, Kalamata olives, tzatziki and citrus-sprinkled couscous will take you to a food paradise. Try meals like the hearty chicken shawarma, spiced carrots and chickpea salad for a refreshing and nutritious meal.
faqs about National Harbor Restaurants
Q: What are the best restaurants in National Harbor with takeout?
A: Restaurants in National Harbor have a wide variety of dining options, including ordering in and picking up. A couple popular ones that provide takeout include Grace's Mandarin, serving Asian-fusion food like drunken noodles, fried rice and tempura shrimp, as well as Fiorella Italian Kitchen, where you can get pizzas, salads and cheesy appetizers.
Q: What are the best family-friendly restaurants in National Harbor?
A: Family-friendly fun abounds here, and restaurants are no exception. Popular family-friendly restaurants include SUCCOTASH, with Southern favorites like fried green tomatoes and chicken and waffles, as well as Sauciety at The Westin Washington National Harbor, where classic American meets Atlantic-coast with crab cakes, chicken wings and more.
Q: What are the best affordable restaurants in National Harbor?
A: National Harbor has a plethora of delicious, local restaurants for any budget. A couple of restaurants that won’t break the bank include Flaming Grill & Buffet, where seafood options are endless, and mezeh, which serves Mediterranean flavors like falafel, olives and citrus-sprinkled couscous.