French Restaurants and Belgian Restaurants in Washington DC
Bistro Bis
(French, Near Union Station)15 E St NW
Washington, DC 20001
202-661-2700
Upscale, modern version of a French bistro. Features contemporary versions of French classics. Sophisticated and elegantly appointed, yet still feels homey and cozy. Extensive wine list. Private dining room available.
Bistro du Coin
1738 Connecticut Avenue
Washington, DC 20009
202-234-6969
Bright, lively, and often loud, this is a wonderful French bistro. We love the veal stew, mussels with cream, and the assiette de cochonaille (French cold cuts assortment). In nice weather, they open the large French doors that let out onto Connecticut Avenue. If you have a dog, you can tie his leash to the planters (water provided) and keep an eye on him while eating inside.
Bistro Lepic and Wine Bar
(French, Upper Georgetown)1736 Wisconsin Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20007
202-333-0111
Very cozy, rather cute French bistro, now featuring a wine bar with several French wines available by the glass and half glass. They do a great Valentine's Day prix fixe. Interesting dishes include the crusty boneless pigs feet with onion sauce and the free range organic chicken with curry, coconut milk, lemon grass, and saffron basmati rice. Six dessert wines by the glass.
Brasserie Beck
1101 K Street
Washington, DC 20005
202-408-1717
Family-owned. Amazing list of Belgian Beers including several US exclusives on tap. Charcuterie plate is fantastic. Excellent fries served with a trio of mayonnaises. Enjoy fresh-shucked oysters at the oversized bar. Valet parking is available at night for $10.
Central by Michel Richard
1001 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, DC 20004
202-626-0015
Central is the new, elegant, but more casual offering from Michel Richard of Citronelle fame. Listed as one of the Top 100 Best Restaurants for 2008 in the Food & Wine magazine. The "faux gras" terrine of chicken liver is delicious. The Lobster burger is a star.
Citronelle
(French, Georgetown)3000 M Street NW
Washington, DC 20007
202-625-2150
Michel Richard's Citronelle is a romantic restaurant best known for its fresh, light foods, like the tomato tart. The restaurant also is noted for its seafood, particularly its lobster pasta, which is served in a caviar tin.
Gerard Paugaud Bistro - Review
(French Bistro, Midtown)915 15th Street NW
Washington, DC 20005
202-737-4445
Re-styled as Gerard Pangaud Bistro (formerly Gerard's Place), Chef Pangaud offers French bistro cuisine that highlights seasonal ingredients.
La Chaumiere
2813 M St NW
Washington, DC 20007
202-338-1784
An authentic French dining inn, with its central stone fireplace, wood beams, and stucco walls provides a cozy and slightly rustic atmosphere. First courses include a deeply-flavored lobster bisque and baked mussels. Second courses include river trout with almonds, shad roe (in season), true Dover sole, crab cakes, steaks, and various organ meats. For dessert, opt for a soufle (chocolate, Grand Mariner, or both!). Thursday is cassoulet night.