Eater writers and editors always get the same question. Friends, family, acquaintances, and randos all want to know, “Where should I eat right now?” That’s where the Eater Heatmap enters the conversation, pointing diners toward the most intriguing or otherwise buzzworthy new restaurants in the D.C. area. This list considers restaurants that have been open for six months or less. For our map of the D.C. area’s 38 essential restaurants, go here.
New to the list: Casa Teresa, for a Spanish stunner downtown; Medina, for gorgeous cocktails and small plates across from Maydan; Amparo Fondita, for modern Mexican cuisine in Dupont; La Bohème, for a creative tasting room in Georgetown; Peruvian Brothers, for empanadas and pisco sours in Arlington; Limani, for a Greek showpiece perched on the Wharf; Ceibo, for South American dishes in Adams Morgan; and Kreole Seafood, for a fiery crab house in Fairfax.
Leaving the list: The Farmhouse Bistro at the Crossvines, Vera, Kyojin Sushi, The Salamander Grille, Joon, San Matteo
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