Washington, DC
For French in Washington, the local food press points to Le Diplomate, Lutèce., and Bistrot Du Coin. Picks from Washingtonian and The Infatuation, updated July 2026.
Editor’s picks
Press picks, until locals rank their own Top 5s. Sourced from the local food press. As seen in Washingtonian and The Infatuation. Updated July 2026.
Le Diplomate · Logan Circle
Washingtonian 2025 readers' #1 French. Stephen Starr's Logan Circle bistro that remains DC's consensus French pick a decade in.
Lutèce. · Georgetown
Washingtonian 2025 readers' #2 French. The Georgetown bistro redefining the DC French scene.
Bistrot Du Coin · Dupont Circle
Washingtonian 2025 readers' #3 French. The long-running Dupont Circle brasserie that's been DC's classic French brasserie anchor for decades.
Le Chat Noir · Friendship Heights
A French-owned, crepe-heavy spot in Friendship Heights that draws elegant older couples and first dates alike. A savory stuffed crepe is the standout, with real absinthe behind the bar.
La Chaumiere · Georgetown
Open since 1976 in Georgetown and frozen in an Alpine aesthetic of beamed ceilings and farming decor. Duck with currant sauce and a sausage plate with madeira reduction have kept a loyal clientele for decades.
What’s your #1 French in Washington, DC?
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