Diners' Choice: Romantic restaurants in Washington, D.C. Area

OpenTable

Updated March 05, 2025

Looking for restaurants that are the most romantic in Washington, D.C. Area? You’re in the right place. Each month, OpenTable analyzes nearly 2 million global diner reviews from the past four months. We sort the results by location and category to help you discover new favorite restaurants. It's a great partnership: you reserve, eat, and review. We listen...and deliver the results for all to benefit. Enjoy!

Hillbrook Inn

4.9

4.9 (84)

$50 and over

Contemporary American

Purcellville

About the restaurant

Our dining experience showcases the artistry and skill of Executive Chef Tom O'Hara. We partner with local farmers and regional purveyors who share our philosophy to create a menu that showcases our passion for food. Our extended Wine cellar holds approximately 200 varietals. An amazing beer and spirits-menu is available in our Bullskin Tavern with seasonal specialty cocktails created by our mixologist and sommelier, Sarah Rhinehart.

The dress code for dinner is business casual. Coats and ties are welcomed but not mandatory.

Open to the public as well as inn guests.

Reservations required.

Top review

SweetPositiveAttitude555

Dined on Mar 15, 2025

We loved hillbrook inn! Always had great experiences! Today we came for our sister birthday and she loved it! Thank you!

The Melting Pot - Fredericksburg

4.8

4.8 (914)

$31 to $50

Fondue

Fredericksburg

About the restaurant

The Melting Pot is Fredericksburg’s premiere fondue restaurant. We offer both a romantic and family friendly atmosphere for your fine dining fondue experience. Our staff operates with one goal in mind - to provide you with the perfect night out.

Top review

Brian

Dined 3 days ago

We had a lovely time for a date night. We did try a new flavor cheese, to us it was new, and found it to be not very flavorful. But for what we went for and what we ate, we loved the time together and away from the house.

La Bonne Vie

4.7

4.7 (71)

$31 to $50

French

Herndon

About the restaurant

Nestled in Herndon, our restaurant radiates the timeless charm of a Parisian bistro, offering a menu that celebrates classic French entrees with our own twist. Each dish is a testament to our commitment to quality and authenticity, crafted with passion and precision by our talented chef. From Trout Amandine to Steak Frites, every bite at La Bonne Vie is a journey through the flavors and traditions that define French gastronomy.

At La Bonne Vie, we believe that dining is more than just a meal; it's an experience that enriches life and creates lasting memories. Our warm and inviting atmosphere, paired with attentive service and a thoughtfully curated wine selection, invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and indulge in the simple pleasures of good food and good company. Whether you're seeking a romantic evening out or a gathering with friends and family, La Bonne Vie welcomes you to embrace "the good life" in every delicious bite.

Top review

Lucy

Dined 5 days ago

We enjoyed trying a few of the specialty cocktails or wine before dinner with some fresh, warm rolls and butter. Everyone enjoyed the entrees as well. They were prepared as ordered. The service was provided by the owners Ali and Homerya. They have always been very personable and welcoming in all the years we have come to their restaurant.

Cafe Riggs

4.7

4.7 (170)

$31 to $50

Contemporary French / American

Penn Quarter

About the restaurant

In the grand tradition of French cuisine, Café Riggs presents a contemporary American brasserie that reimagines classic dishes within a vibrant setting.

Top review

joelVIP

Dined 4 days ago

My son and I traveled to Washington, D.C. for a quick 24-hour trip. He introduced me to breakfast at Cafe Riggs. From the minute I walked in, I knew this would be an awesome experience. The service was outstanding and the food was incredibly fresh and delicious. We will be back!

a.lounge+bar - Alexandria

4.6

4.6 (22)

$30 and under

American

Alexandria

About the restaurant

Featuring a mid-Atlantic inspired menu, a.lounge+bar delivers a captivating culinary experience in Old Town, Alexandria. Dive into fresh seafood dishes, such as Rappahannock oysters and expertly grilled whole branzino, or savor expertly crafted classics like our Amish chicken and prime steak & frites. Complement your meal with ingredient-driven cocktails inspired by Old Town's rich history or choose from our list of world-renowned wines. Enjoy al fresco dining on our expansive patio as the sun sets or sip handcrafted cocktails beneath the ethereal "mamacloud" floating above our bar, adding a touch of whimsy to your evening. Whether you're unwinding with happy hour drinks, catching up with friends, or simply indulging in a night out, a.lounge offers the perfect elegant and inviting setting.

Top review

JanayS

Dined 2 days ago

I found this restaurant due to their participation in Spring Fling Wine Week. The 2 course prefix menu caught my eye. The restaurant blew me away and the food did not disappoint. The many times I’m in the vicinity of this restaurant, I never knew it existed. The staff was courteous, and attentive. The food and drink director checking on customers continually throughout the meal was top tier. I will definitely come back.

El Taller del Xiquet

4.5

4.5 (27)

$50 and over

Spanish

Georgetown

About the restaurant

El Taller del Xiquet, or “Xiquet’s workshop,” celebrates Spanish flavors with a dedication to quality. Chef Danny crafts imaginative dishes from the finest ingredients, showcasing the vibrant cuisine of his roots. Our menu offers a seasonal selection of à la carte items and shareable plates, inviting you to explore the richness of both land and sea.

Inspired by the traditions of coastal Spain, each dish reflects a respect for local agriculture and sustainable practices. This commitment is seen in premium proteins and seasonal produce from the Valencian region, highlighting the essence of Spanish gastronomy. Delicate octopus, sweet scallops, and succulent prawns are prepared with artistry and passion, while dishes like sustainable sea bass gravlax, signature paellas, and generous fideuàs are served tableside. El Taller del Xiquet offers a culinary journey into Spain’s traditions, honoring the ingredients and techniques that have graced tables for generations.

Top review

Norma

Dined 5 days ago

The experience is amazing since the first step! Gustavo is a great host and the chef Dani is an amazing person with a delicious menu! An authentic Mediterranean style.

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Maggiano's - Chevy Chase

4.4

4.4 (2778)

$30 and under

Italian

Friendship Heights

About the restaurant

Join us for lunch or dinner at Maggiano's Chevy Chase and savor the rich flavors of Italian-American dishes inspired by Nonna’s traditional recipes. Our location offers a city atmosphere in the heart of DC. Chevy Chase is a well-known suburb-in-the-city with a strong community connection that offers a great atmosphere. Visit us at 5333 Wisconsin Ave. NW and book your reservation today!

Top review

RebeccaO

Dined 3 days ago

Excellent food, service and ambiance. I could go there every week and never tire of it.

The Melting Pot - Gaithersburg

4.2

4.2 (2071)

$31 to $50

Fondue

Gaithersburg

About the restaurant

The Melting Pot offers an extraordinary dining experience that you won't find at any other restaurant. Here, you'll discover all the ingredients to a perfect evening, including a relaxed atmosphere, private tables, attentive service, fine wines & cocktails, as well as fabulous four-course fondue dinners. No matter what the occasion, from a romantic date to a get together with friends, meetings, or large groups, The Melting Pot always provides fun & lasting memories. Make reservations today & come dip into something different.

Top review

EricVIP

Dined on Feb 15, 2025

Definitely a great meal if you’re in the mood for fondue

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Popular dish

Pure Chocolate Fondue

Upstairs at the Morrow

4.1

4.1 (20)

$31 to $50

Contemporary European

NoMa

About the restaurant

Upstairs at The Morrow is an American brasserie rooftop with breathtaking views of D.C.'s iconic landmarks and vibrant cityscape. Savor seasonal cuisine and handcrafted cocktails from morning to night in our indoor-outdoor space, complete with lounge-style couches, firepits, and a wrap-around bar. Whether you're joining us for sunset sparkling wines or last-call tequila, Upstairs is your vibrant rooftop playground in the heart of NoMa

Top review

CourtneeVIP

Dined 7 days ago

Perfect spot for rooftop drinks on a nice day! Will definitely be back.

Ristorante La Perla of Washington

4.0

4 (1565)

$31 to $50

Italian

Georgetown

About the restaurant

The restaurant of choice of many distinguished diners and restaurant critics, Ristorante La Perla of Washington, located near Georgetown at the tail-end of the historic Pennsylvania Avenue, takes its diners on a culinary journey through Italy with elegant decor surpassed only by authentic mouth-watering Italian masterpieces. During Lunch and Dinner hours, pastas and flavorful sauces simmer while prime meats, poultry, seafood and vegetables roast to treat diners to a little bit of heaven, with a long lasting memory for your taste buds, thanks to the vision of famous chef Vittorio Testa, who has kept alive the Italian culinary tradition for over three decades.

Chef-Owner Vittorio Testa will make you feel like you're dining in his house. The waiters exceed expectations, and the space is garnished with painted tiles and Venetian glass to make every dining occasion a memorable one. There's also Private dining and Outdoor seating when the weather permits.

Top review

OpenTable Diner

Dined on Mar 11, 2025

Great food and service. This is the third time I’ve had a chance to visit.

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