You may not be able to travel internationally this year because of COVID concerns – or simply finances – but you can sample fabulous international cuisine and nightlife right here in the DMV area at these local dining hot spots. 2022 may not be the year for jet setting, but you can experience delectable lunches, dinners, brunches and beverages just a car ride away.
Immigrant Food at the Planet Word Museum in downtown D.C. features culinary selections from all over the world. Enjoy a menu where you can choose from “Taj Mahal Chicken Sliders,” “Havana Sandwiches,” “West African Gumbo,” “Viet Vibes Bowl,” “Latin Flan” and an assortment of other global delicacies.
Not only does Immigrant Food offer a diverse menu, but they also promote “gastroadvocacy” by educating customers about how they can get involved with immigrant advocacy efforts in their communities. Their “Engagement Menu” shares ways you can make a difference in the lives of immigrants.
Immigrant Food’s Washington D.C. locations include The Planet Word Museum at 925 13th St. NW, as well as the Union Market District and The White House.
Visit online at https://immigrantfood.com/.
If you’d like to focus your special dining experience on a specific country, here are some other great options:
French
“A touch of Paris on the Potomac,” Bistro du Jour serves traditional fare like Coq Au Vin and Duck Confit and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as weekend brunch. Their all-day Parisian bistro also features freshly-baked pastries from Mah-Ze-Dahr Bakery and coffee from La Colombe.
Visit Bistro Du Jour at 99 District Square SW, Washington, D.C. and online at https://www.bistro-dujour.com/.
German
Schnitzel, Bratwurst, German Potato Salad, and several creative takes on the classic pretzel,
The Bronson Bierhall is a traditional German bar located in Ballston, Va. (Don’t fret: if someone in your party is not a German food fan, they also serve mainstays like pizza, salad and sandwiches.) Bronson’s beer menu boasts ales, lagers, malts, and more. For those unfamiliar with the many beer varieties, their menu helps whittle down your choices by categorizing them according to taste preferences.
Visit The Bronson Bierhall at 4100 Fairfax Drive in Arlington, Va. and online at https://bronsonbierhall.com/.
Indian
Maybe it’s destiny, or maybe it’s simply your appetite for Indian spice that leads you to Kismet in Old Town Alexandria. Chef Ajay Kumar brings his award-winning fare from Kismet’s sister restaurant, Karma, in downtown D.C. to this Virginia locale. Food paired with craft mixology elevates the concept of Indian dining to a modern level.
Visit Kismet Modern Indian at 111 North Pitt Street in Alexandria, Va. and online at https://kismetmodernindian.com/.
Visit Karma Modern Indian at 611 I Street NW in Washington, D.C. or online at http://karmamodernindian.com/.
Italian
With consistently good customer reviews, Gregorio’s features Italian favorites just like Mamma made – but even more! Bonus: an extensive gluten-free menu. Double bonus: locations in Reston, Potomac, and Bethesda!
Visit Gregorio’s at 1428 N. Point Village Center in Reston, 7745 Tuckerman Lane in Potomac, 4611-A Sangamore Road in Bethesda, and online at https://gregoriostrattoria.com/.
Japanese
Enjoy an updated version of the traditional Japanese Hot Pot or a Kaiseki experience – a small plate menu with delicacies from the sea. Shabu Plus boasts quality organic produce and poultry, top-grade meats, and sustainable seafood.
Visit Shabu Plus at 2321 18th Street N, Washington, D.C. and online at https://www.shabuplus.com/.
Greek
Melina offers modernized Greek classics in a fine casual setting with quality ingredients from the sea and grilled meats. Kebabs, Souvlaki, Tzatziki, Kleftiko, and more!
Visit Melina at 905 Rose Avenue in North Bethesda, Md. and online at https://www.melinagreek.com/.
Mexican
Looking for great Mexican food with vegetarian and gluten-free options? Los Companeros opened in 2021 with authentic Mexican cuisine in D.C.
Visit Los Companeros at 1819 Columbia Road N.W. and online at https://www.loscompaneros.net/menu.
Middle Eastern/Persian Gulf/Northern India
Leila’s dining and nightlife experience draws cultural and culinary inspiration from the Middle East, Persian Gulf, and North India – all under one roof. Extra: Hookah is available in a variety of flavors including Watermelon Mint, Mango, Bluemist, and more.
Visit Leila at 7943B Tysons Corner Center in Tysons, Va. and online at https://www.meetleila.com/.
Mediterranean
Enjoy a life of luxury with Dolce Vita’s Mediterranean fusion food highlighting four countries: Italy, Morocco, Spain, and Greece. The wine list is expansive with 150 bottles and a signature cocktail list, too. The interior design features hand-painted murals, electric blue velvet chairs and an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs at work. Go all out at the chef’s table adjacent to the wine cellar.
Visit Dolce Vita at 1610 14th Street N.W. in Washington, D.C. and online at https://www.dolcevitadc.com/.
American/French/Eclectic
The Inn at Little Washington will require you to drive through the Virginia countryside, but the “Gastronaut” and “Good Earth” menus prepared by world-renowned Chef Patrick O’Connell are well worth the trip. Much of the produce and herbs used in the restaurant is raised on their small farm by Farmer-in-Residence Joneve Murphy. Throughout the last four decades, The Inn has established a network of local farmers and suppliers whose products represent the best in the region. In 2021, Michelin awarded The Inn a Green Star for sustainability. Bonus: The Inn’s 23 luxurious guest rooms and suites were designed by a London stage and set designer.
Visit The Inn at Little Washington at Middle & Main Streets in Washington, Va. and online at https://www.theinnatlittlewashington.com.
Contact us to connect with a knowledgeable agent who can help you explore all that the area has to offer, including close proximity to your favorite cuisines!
