Catch First Family vibes at these acclaimed locales in the culinary capital
It’s fitting that presidents dating back to George H.W. Bush have dined at Todd Gray’s Mid-Atlantic inspired restaurant, since it’s located just a few blocks from the White House. Seasonal fare informs all of the eatery’s menus, from lunch to dinner to its Sunday vegan brunch. Get in your epic meal via the chef’s tasting menu or go a la carte all the way.
The oldest bar in the District was once located in Chinatown, where reportedly numerous Commanders-in-Chief kicked back for a drink, including Theodore Roosevelt, Grover Cleveland and Ulysses S. Grant. Now a Downtown mainstay, expect classic decor and a menu full of American specialties when you settle in for your own presidential experience.
Rasika West End
This award-winning restaurant in DC’s Foggy Bottom neighborhood hosted a birthday celebration for Barack and an anniversary celebration for the Clintons. Chef Vikram Sunderam is a DC culinary superstar, crafting a menu that takes Indian cuisine to the next level. Rasika West End’s sister restaurant, Rasika, is also highly recommended.
One of the city’s most revered restaurants recently received its first Michelin star, and was also where Barack and Michelle Obama celebrated their 17th wedding anniversary. A menu of delicious seasonal fare gives way to an unforgettable apple die dessert at this cozy abode located inside the Park Hyatt Washington.
Teddy & The Bully Bar
Salute one of the most revered presidents at Teddy & The Bully Bar, a tribute to - you guessed it! - Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th Commander-in-Chief. The decor reflects Teddy’s outgoing nature and masculine posture perfectly, as does a menu outfitted with robust meals with ingredients sourced locally. Take a seat at The Bully Bar for a Rough Rider Daiquiri or any number of expertly crafted cocktails.
Serving as a sister restaurant to Teddy & The Bully Bar, LINCOLN is another president-themed masterpiece. Located in the Downtown neighborhood, the distinctive locale features American Pop art, including pieces by Jasper Johns and DC’s own Maggie O’Neill. A seasonal small plate menu means you’re always sure to discover something fresh and exciting while at LINCOLN.
This Chinatown eatery welcomed Michelle Obama and friends for dinner in September of 2016, and for good reason. Owned by celebrity couple Bill and Giuliana Rancic, the hot spot sports a menu outfitted with pastas, seafood classics and slow-roasted meats, to go along with plentiful wine and cocktail offerings. Insider tip: Michelle dined on the lobster caprese.
What, did you really think that a José Andrés restaurant would not show up on this list? The Obamas dined here for holidays and birthdays, so the Mexican food haven and Bib Gourmand honoree is well-equipped to provide a wondrous night out in DC. Try the guacamole, one of its many creative margaritas and, if you’re feeling adventurous, the grasshopper tacos.
Bourbon Steak
This Michael Mina steakhouse calls the chic Four Seasons Hotel its home, making it a very logical destination for Barack and Michelle Obama’s 20th anniversary dinner in 2012. Local farms and the Chesapeake Bay inform the menu at Bourbon Steak, where you can always savor a 22-ounce T-bone steak and wash it down with a pristine glass of wine or handcrafted cocktail.
Looking for more DC dining suggestions? Check out hot restaurants to try now and continue your delicious adventure.
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