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Dan dan noodles at Astoria.
Astoria serves Sichuan favorites like dan dan noodles.
Astoria/Facebook

Where to Eat and Drink in Dupont Circle

The Northwest neighborhood is home to options for lobster rolls, spicy dan dan noodles, and French bistro fare

by Eater Staff Updated
View as Map
Astoria serves Sichuan favorites like dan dan noodles.
| Astoria/Facebook
by Eater Staff Updated

Dupont Circle is both a destination for tourists and a home for many of the city’s well-to-do residents. The popular dining nexus is also stacked with plenty of lunchtime staples, fast casual standards like Chinese/Korean favorite Chiko and hummus spot Little Sesame, takeout-only spots like spice-packed Thai destination Little Serow and Happy Gyro, convivial bars, and international options from which to choose.

St. Arnold’s Mussel Bar made a surprise comeback on Jefferson Place NW this year, and popular nightclub Heist will reopen across the street soon.

Don’t see a personal favorite on the list? Sound off in the comments or shoot us an email (dc@eater.com).

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Bistrot Du Coin

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This bustling and affordable French bistro has been a loud, festive mainstay for moules frites, escargot, and more for over 20 years. Its annual Bastille Day party is legendary, as is its Beaujolais Nouveau release event every fall.

1738 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20009
(202) 234-6969
(202) 234-6969
Moules marinières at Bistrot du Coin.
Moules marinières at Bistrot du Coin.
Bistrot du Coin/Official Site

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Lyle's

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London-based Lore Group’s sophisticated D.C. hotel includes Lyle’s, a restaurant outfitted with a standout (and wine-proof) white couch and a menu with dressed-up standbys like white cheddar cheeseburgers and chicken noodle soup. Plus, Lyle’s bottomless brunch pours mimosas laced with orange juice or exciting combos like pear elderflower liqueur or lavender lemon; as well as an umami-rich bloody Mary with miso. A new Buckets, Bubbles & Brews offering brings fried chicken, biscuits, jams, four glasses of sparkling rosé, or six bottles of beer to the table.

1731 New Hampshire Ave NW, Washington, DC 20009
(202) 964-6790
(202) 964-6790
Lyle’s new boozy fried chicken deal at brunch.
Lyle’s

Also featured in:

La Tomate

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This over 30-year old neighborhood bistro, named for the owner’s late husband’s love for the circular fruit, sits in one of the most desirable locations of the city, wedged at the corner where Connecticut Avenue meets R Street. It dishes authentic Italian fare like fresh pastas like squid ink-infused caserecce; plus smart starters like beef fillet tartar with quail egg, La Tur cheese, and caviar as well as pan-seared octopus with confit potatoes, black olives, leek puree, and pepper coulis.

1701 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20009
(202) 667-5505
(202) 667-5505

MI CASA

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This boho-chic Tex Mex restaurant from Knead Hospitality is a cactus-filled respite serving margaritas, fajitas, and Tex Mex favorites. For after dinner entertainment, head to Swingers from the same restaurant group for adults-only mini golf.

1647 20th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
(202) 450-4595
(202) 450-4595
A bar flanked with muted tiles puts 100 types of tequila and mezcals on display.
Rey Lopez for Mi Casa

Also featured in:

Hank's Oyster Bar (Multiple locations)

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Hank’s is a neighborhood go-to for oysters on the half shell and other “ice bar” selections like peel ‘n eat shrimp or ceviche. From there, move on to a crab cake or its best-selling lobster roll.

1624 Q St NW, Washington, DC 20009
(202) 462-4265
(202) 462-4265
Hank’s Oyster Bar’s blue signage with golden lettering
Hank’s Oyster Bar
Hank’s [official site]

Also featured in:

Kramers

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Beloved bookstore Kramers (formerly Kramerbooks) added a 26-seat bar with 18 beers on tap, wines, and cocktails, as well as optimized lighting (for simultaneously reading and imbibing) and a dedicated bar snacks menu with carrot chickpea tartine, sliders, and French onion dip. Meanwhile, All Day by Kramers offers seating in a bright, solarium dining or on the covered patio as it serves breakfast all day, plus entrees such as lobster ravioli, sandwiches, salads, and starters like deviled eggs.

1517 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036
(202) 387-1400
(202) 387-1400

Also featured in:

Astoria DC

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A tight Sichuan menu pairs with creative and well-made cocktails at this outpost from the Copycat Co. team. Try chili wontons, fried rice with lump crab, and mapo tofu alongside classic cocktails like daiquiris or creative drinks like a Chartreuse swizzle with tarragon, lime, green chartreuse, pineapple, and cacao.

1521 17th St NW, Washington, DC 20036
(202) 754-0065
(202) 754-0065

Also featured in:

Doyle

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This handsome, mid-century-chic bar offers panoramic views of Dupont Circle. All-day dining options include, meatballs, truffle fries, crab cakes, and rigatoni. Its frothy espresso martini is not to miss.

1500 New Hampshire Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036
(202) 448-4301
(202) 448-4301

Also featured in:

Duke's Grocery

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Hungry diners file into this British-style pub for fancy sandwiches and snack plates. The Proper Burger is one of the best in D.C., with gooey melted gouda, dill pickles, charred onions, Thai sweet chili sauce, and arugula. If the weather is nice, stake out some real estate at one of the outdoor picnic tables and do some people watching. — Travis Mitchell

1513 17th St NW, Washington, DC 20036
(202) 733-5623
(202) 733-5623

Also featured in:

Compliments Only

Copy Link

The pandemic-born sandwich slinger left Logan Circle and took over Dupont’s Sorellina deli space this spring. Best sellers on a 10-inch Italian roll include the Teamster with ham, capicola, and Genoa salami, along with hot and sweet peppers, onions, oil and vinegar, and shredded lettuce. The playful neighborhood addition offers a daily Diet Coke happy hour, mini cannoli dipped in bright Fruity Pebbles, and picnic kits. Hours are 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. for dine-in, takeout or delivery.

2029 P St NW Front 1, Washington, DC 20036
(202) 794-4638
(202) 794-4638

SURA Restaurant

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A family-run underground lounge landed in Dupont this spring with a star cast of Thai talent behind the wheel. Former sushi chef Billy Thammasathiti, whose aunt runs the popular Fat Nomads supper club, sends out quail egg wontons, spicy crudo, fiery papaya salads, and spicy beef or pork skewers. Andy Thammasathiti of Baltimore’s Mayuree Thai Tavern whips up passion fruit daiquiris and Sichuan baijiu cocktails behind a glowing red bar. The 50-seat, subterranean space swings open at 4 p.m., with walk-ins welcome but reservations encouraged.

2016 P St NW, Washington, DC 20036
(202) 450-6282
(202) 450-6282

Also featured in:

ala

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Turkish restaurant Ankara went through a revamp last spring, reopening as Ala to focus on serving dishes from Syria, Lebanon, and Israel along with rare Palestinian wines. Plus, there’s a great happy hour offering — 25 percent off the entire menu Monday through Friday from 2 to 5 p.m. The bottomless brunch is also not to miss, complete with a build-your-own mimosa bar.

1320 19th St NW, Washington, DC 20036
(202) 717-1166
(202) 717-1166

Also featured in:

Residents Cafe & Bar

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Espresso martinis and a stellar sound system are a draw at Residents Cafe & Bar, a stylish day-to-night cafe with a Mediterranean-leaning lineup and leafy “cocktail garden” that’s frequently full. The Basque cheesecake with passionfruit coulis, panko crust, and Moroccan ras el hanout seasoning is reason enough to finish your dinner.

1306 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20036
(202) 733-7143
(202) 733-7143
Hawkeye Johnson/Residents

Also featured in:

Tokyo Pearl

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Check out a $7 happy hour Tuesdays to Sundays with shrimp tempura, Tokyo Pearl punch, and Japanese tater tots, or swing by after 10 p.m. for DJ nights. This summer, Friday and Saturday hours stretch until 5 a.m. with late-night snacks and Dupont’s ultimate new food: loaded baked potatoes.

1301 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036
(202) 817-3187
(202) 817-3187

Also featured in:

Iron Gate

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This historic carriage house-turned-Neighborhood Restaurant Group property features Mediterranean cooking in an elegant, romantic atmosphere. The enclosed garden is a welcoming spot to indulge in pastas, grilled meats, and vegetable dishes with seasonal ingredients. Takeout and delivery is available too. —Travis Mitchell

1734 N St NW, Washington, DC 20036
(202) 524-5202
(202) 524-5202
Rainbow carrots (orange, purple, yellow) garnished with an orange sauce and bright green microgreens
A carrot dish from Iron Gate
Iron Gate [official photo]

Also featured in:

More in Maps

Boqueria

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The first location of this New York outpost in D.C., Boqueria is a favorite for tapas, daily happy hour, and sangria. Its corner location also means loads of natural light.

1837 M St NW, Washington, DC 20036
(202) 558-9545
(202) 558-9545
A large pan of paella for sharing, stuffed with rice, mussels, and shrimp in a cast iron pan.
Paella at Boqueria
Rey Lopez/Boqueria

Also featured in:

Le DeSales

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During its 12-year run in the heart of Chinatown, Sei was widely considered one of the top sushi and sashimi spots in town. The beloved brand now lives on inside French-themed Le DeSales, where Japanese sushi master “Noriaki” Yasutake sends out his greatest raw fish hits to go along with a solid list of sakes and Japanese whiskeys.

1725 Desales St NW, Washington, DC 20036
(202) 450-3998
(202) 450-3998
Sei’s famous “Fish and Chips” roll is now served at Le DeSales. 
Le DeSales

Also featured in:

Greek Deli & Catering

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Lines used to snake down the street during busy weekday lunch hours at this 32-year old favorite, known for its lemony avgolemono soup, meatballs, spanakopita, and more. Today, Greek Deli & Catering is on DoorDash to cater to those working from home.

1120 19th St NW, Washington, DC 20036
(202) 296-2111
(202) 296-2111
Greek deli owner Kostas Fostieris ladleing food into to-go containers.
Greek deli owner Kostas Fostieris
Rey Lopez/Eater DC

Also featured in:

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Bistrot Du Coin

1738 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20009

This bustling and affordable French bistro has been a loud, festive mainstay for moules frites, escargot, and more for over 20 years. Its annual Bastille Day party is legendary, as is its Beaujolais Nouveau release event every fall.

1738 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20009
(202) 234-6969
(202) 234-6969
Moules marinières at Bistrot du Coin.
Moules marinières at Bistrot du Coin.
Bistrot du Coin/Official Site

Lyle's

1731 New Hampshire Ave NW, Washington, DC 20009

London-based Lore Group’s sophisticated D.C. hotel includes Lyle’s, a restaurant outfitted with a standout (and wine-proof) white couch and a menu with dressed-up standbys like white cheddar cheeseburgers and chicken noodle soup. Plus, Lyle’s bottomless brunch pours mimosas laced with orange juice or exciting combos like pear elderflower liqueur or lavender lemon; as well as an umami-rich bloody Mary with miso. A new Buckets, Bubbles & Brews offering brings fried chicken, biscuits, jams, four glasses of sparkling rosé, or six bottles of beer to the table.

1731 New Hampshire Ave NW, Washington, DC 20009
(202) 964-6790
(202) 964-6790
Lyle’s new boozy fried chicken deal at brunch.
Lyle’s

La Tomate

1701 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20009

This over 30-year old neighborhood bistro, named for the owner’s late husband’s love for the circular fruit, sits in one of the most desirable locations of the city, wedged at the corner where Connecticut Avenue meets R Street. It dishes authentic Italian fare like fresh pastas like squid ink-infused caserecce; plus smart starters like beef fillet tartar with quail egg, La Tur cheese, and caviar as well as pan-seared octopus with confit potatoes, black olives, leek puree, and pepper coulis.

1701 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20009
(202) 667-5505
(202) 667-5505

MI CASA

1647 20th St NW, Washington, DC 20009

This boho-chic Tex Mex restaurant from Knead Hospitality is a cactus-filled respite serving margaritas, fajitas, and Tex Mex favorites. For after dinner entertainment, head to Swingers from the same restaurant group for adults-only mini golf.

1647 20th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
(202) 450-4595
(202) 450-4595
A bar flanked with muted tiles puts 100 types of tequila and mezcals on display.
Rey Lopez for Mi Casa

Hank's Oyster Bar (Multiple locations)

1624 Q St NW, Washington, DC 20009

Hank’s is a neighborhood go-to for oysters on the half shell and other “ice bar” selections like peel ‘n eat shrimp or ceviche. From there, move on to a crab cake or its best-selling lobster roll.

1624 Q St NW, Washington, DC 20009
(202) 462-4265
(202) 462-4265
Hank’s Oyster Bar’s blue signage with golden lettering
Hank’s Oyster Bar
Hank’s [official site]

Kramers

1517 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036

Beloved bookstore Kramers (formerly Kramerbooks) added a 26-seat bar with 18 beers on tap, wines, and cocktails, as well as optimized lighting (for simultaneously reading and imbibing) and a dedicated bar snacks menu with carrot chickpea tartine, sliders, and French onion dip. Meanwhile, All Day by Kramers offers seating in a bright, solarium dining or on the covered patio as it serves breakfast all day, plus entrees such as lobster ravioli, sandwiches, salads, and starters like deviled eggs.

1517 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036
(202) 387-1400
(202) 387-1400

Astoria DC

1521 17th St NW, Washington, DC 20036

A tight Sichuan menu pairs with creative and well-made cocktails at this outpost from the Copycat Co. team. Try chili wontons, fried rice with lump crab, and mapo tofu alongside classic cocktails like daiquiris or creative drinks like a Chartreuse swizzle with tarragon, lime, green chartreuse, pineapple, and cacao.

1521 17th St NW, Washington, DC 20036
(202) 754-0065
(202) 754-0065

Doyle

1500 New Hampshire Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036

This handsome, mid-century-chic bar offers panoramic views of Dupont Circle. All-day dining options include, meatballs, truffle fries, crab cakes, and rigatoni. Its frothy espresso martini is not to miss.

1500 New Hampshire Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036
(202) 448-4301
(202) 448-4301

Duke's Grocery

1513 17th St NW, Washington, DC 20036

Hungry diners file into this British-style pub for fancy sandwiches and snack plates. The Proper Burger is one of the best in D.C., with gooey melted gouda, dill pickles, charred onions, Thai sweet chili sauce, and arugula. If the weather is nice, stake out some real estate at one of the outdoor picnic tables and do some people watching. — Travis Mitchell

1513 17th St NW, Washington, DC 20036
(202) 733-5623
(202) 733-5623

Compliments Only

2029 P St NW Front 1, Washington, DC 20036

The pandemic-born sandwich slinger left Logan Circle and took over Dupont’s Sorellina deli space this spring. Best sellers on a 10-inch Italian roll include the Teamster with ham, capicola, and Genoa salami, along with hot and sweet peppers, onions, oil and vinegar, and shredded lettuce. The playful neighborhood addition offers a daily Diet Coke happy hour, mini cannoli dipped in bright Fruity Pebbles, and picnic kits. Hours are 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. for dine-in, takeout or delivery.

2029 P St NW Front 1, Washington, DC 20036
(202) 794-4638
(202) 794-4638

SURA Restaurant

2016 P St NW, Washington, DC 20036

A family-run underground lounge landed in Dupont this spring with a star cast of Thai talent behind the wheel. Former sushi chef Billy Thammasathiti, whose aunt runs the popular Fat Nomads supper club, sends out quail egg wontons, spicy crudo, fiery papaya salads, and spicy beef or pork skewers. Andy Thammasathiti of Baltimore’s Mayuree Thai Tavern whips up passion fruit daiquiris and Sichuan baijiu cocktails behind a glowing red bar. The 50-seat, subterranean space swings open at 4 p.m., with walk-ins welcome but reservations encouraged.

2016 P St NW, Washington, DC 20036
(202) 450-6282
(202) 450-6282

ala

1320 19th St NW, Washington, DC 20036

Turkish restaurant Ankara went through a revamp last spring, reopening as Ala to focus on serving dishes from Syria, Lebanon, and Israel along with rare Palestinian wines. Plus, there’s a great happy hour offering — 25 percent off the entire menu Monday through Friday from 2 to 5 p.m. The bottomless brunch is also not to miss, complete with a build-your-own mimosa bar.

1320 19th St NW, Washington, DC 20036
(202) 717-1166
(202) 717-1166

Residents Cafe & Bar

1306 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20036

Espresso martinis and a stellar sound system are a draw at Residents Cafe & Bar, a stylish day-to-night cafe with a Mediterranean-leaning lineup and leafy “cocktail garden” that’s frequently full. The Basque cheesecake with passionfruit coulis, panko crust, and Moroccan ras el hanout seasoning is reason enough to finish your dinner.

1306 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20036
(202) 733-7143
(202) 733-7143
Hawkeye Johnson/Residents

Tokyo Pearl

1301 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036

Check out a $7 happy hour Tuesdays to Sundays with shrimp tempura, Tokyo Pearl punch, and Japanese tater tots, or swing by after 10 p.m. for DJ nights. This summer, Friday and Saturday hours stretch until 5 a.m. with late-night snacks and Dupont’s ultimate new food: loaded baked potatoes.

1301 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036
(202) 817-3187
(202) 817-3187

Iron Gate

1734 N St NW, Washington, DC 20036

This historic carriage house-turned-Neighborhood Restaurant Group property features Mediterranean cooking in an elegant, romantic atmosphere. The enclosed garden is a welcoming spot to indulge in pastas, grilled meats, and vegetable dishes with seasonal ingredients. Takeout and delivery is available too. —Travis Mitchell

1734 N St NW, Washington, DC 20036
(202) 524-5202
(202) 524-5202
Rainbow carrots (orange, purple, yellow) garnished with an orange sauce and bright green microgreens
A carrot dish from Iron Gate
Iron Gate [official photo]

Related Maps

Boqueria

1837 M St NW, Washington, DC 20036

The first location of this New York outpost in D.C., Boqueria is a favorite for tapas, daily happy hour, and sangria. Its corner location also means loads of natural light.

1837 M St NW, Washington, DC 20036
(202) 558-9545
(202) 558-9545
A large pan of paella for sharing, stuffed with rice, mussels, and shrimp in a cast iron pan.
Paella at Boqueria
Rey Lopez/Boqueria

Le DeSales

1725 Desales St NW, Washington, DC 20036

During its 12-year run in the heart of Chinatown, Sei was widely considered one of the top sushi and sashimi spots in town. The beloved brand now lives on inside French-themed Le DeSales, where Japanese sushi master “Noriaki” Yasutake sends out his greatest raw fish hits to go along with a solid list of sakes and Japanese whiskeys.

1725 Desales St NW, Washington, DC 20036
(202) 450-3998
(202) 450-3998
Sei’s famous “Fish and Chips” roll is now served at Le DeSales. 
Le DeSales

Greek Deli & Catering

1120 19th St NW, Washington, DC 20036

Lines used to snake down the street during busy weekday lunch hours at this 32-year old favorite, known for its lemony avgolemono soup, meatballs, spanakopita, and more. Today, Greek Deli & Catering is on DoorDash to cater to those working from home.

1120 19th St NW, Washington, DC 20036
(202) 296-2111
(202) 296-2111
Greek deli owner Kostas Fostieris ladleing food into to-go containers.
Greek deli owner Kostas Fostieris
Rey Lopez/Eater DC

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