It’s not hard to find a good place to eat in Washington DC but there are places that are hard to find that will give you an unbelievable dining experience, if you are willing to search for them. Hidden in alleyways, attics, basements and residential areas, we found 11 little known restaurants in Washington DC that are hard to find but worth the search.
1. Harold Black - 212 7th St SE
Harold Black is a throwback to the speakeasies of the past. There’s no sign and no number above the door. You have to knock to get in. But once you are in, you can enjoy amazing cocktails and satisfying bites such as fish tacos and meat and cheese plates.
2. A litteri - 517-519 Morse St NE
A Litteri is an Italian grocery store that makes some of the most delicious subs in the entire city. Located in a rundown warehouse in the industrial neighborhood near Union Market, this little shop has its roots in the family owned grocery stores of the past and you’ll feel nostalgic as soon as you walk in.
3. Pitmasters Back Alley BBQ - 4818 Yuma St NW
Pitmasters is actually located in a back alley tucked away behind Wagshals. While it may be hard to find, it makes up for it with delicious and flavorful brisket, ribs, pulled pork and other Southern BBQ favorites.
4. Tortino Restaurant - 1228 11th St NW
Tortino is a residential area not far from Logan Circle. You have to leave behind the hustle and bustle into the quiet neighborhood streets to find this Italian place in the basement of a converted home. In return for the trek, you will enjoy some of the most delicious Italian and seafood entrees you have ever tasted.
5. Cafe Mozart - 1331 H St NW
To get to Cafe Mozart, you have to walk through a small German bakery and deli. The restaurant is located all the way in the back and serves delicious, authentic German food at great prices.
6. Kotobuki - 4822 MacArthur Blvd NW
Kotobuki is in the attic space above Makota. Tiny and cozy, you have to climb some stairs to get there where you will find a wide variety of high quality sushi!
7. Filomena - 1063 Wisconsin Ave NW
You might walk right by Filomena and not even realize how delicious it is. In a small space in Georgetown, not far from the waterfront, Filament is often skipped over by hungry diners heading down to the waterfront but if you want made from scratch pasta, come to Filomena and you will not be disappointed.
8. Kafe Leopold - 3315 Cady's Alley NW
Kafe Leopold is located down an alley off the popular M Street in Georgetown. Walk down a few steps to find an adorable eatery that does an excellent brunch and delicious desserts. You may even forget you are in DC and imagine yourself at a European cafe while there!
9. Curry & Pie - 1204 34th St NW
Curry & Pie is not often recommended because it’s located on a quiet side of Georgetown and while tiny, and hidden in an old town home, their food is delicious. A unique blend of Indian and Italian, the Chicken Tikka Masala Pizza is one of their top sellers.
10. Iron Gate - 1734 N St NW
Iron Gate is tucked into N street, a quiet side street near Dupont Circle, Iron Gate is in a former carriage house. Quiet, dark and cozy, it is the perfect place for a date night. You can even sit out on their beautiful back patio while enjoying favorful meals. Try the tasting menus for the full experience.
11. Off the Record- 800 16th St NW (Inside the Hay-Adams)
Off the Record is a DC state secret. In the basement of the famous Hay-Adams Hotel, Off the Record is a little known speakeasy type bar with a saloon feel. There is a huge menu of cocktails and Asian-inspired dishes that will satisfy your appetites as you enjoy the cool ambiance.
For more of DC's delicious hidden gems, check out these 10 Mom & Pop Restaurants That Serve Home Cooked Meals That Are To Die For.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!
