From world-class Indian to Japanese cuisine, securing a reservation at one of these coveted dining destinations is no easy feat. 
Albi
Albi– Arabic for my heart– draws inspiration from chef Michael Rafidi’s Levant roots by marrying ancient culinary traditions with seasonal ingredients. This lively eatery is always bustling—and once you try the food, you’ll know why. Choose to dine a la carte with options like rainbow trout over coals and crab Warak Dawali, or opt for sofra–a specially curated menu highlighting the freshest ingredients. 1346 4th St. SE, albidc.com
The Bazaar by José Andrés
For a restaurant whose reservations are open 255 days in advance, you’d think securing a table would be easy. Unfortunately, locals are willing to wait for a seat at this Spanish-inspired eatery by Michelin-starred chef José Andrés. While anticipating your reservation, dream of building your own caviar cone Tsar Imperial Ossetra and indulging in Delmonico wagyu steak with au poivre sauce, parmesan air and potato purée. 1100 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, thebazaar.com
The Dabney
Seasonal showstoppers take center stage on The Dabney’s regionally sourced menu. The 2018 James Beard Award-winning chef Jeremiah Longhorn keeps things simple, allowing the farm fresh ingredients to speak for themselves. Join friends for a rye tai cocktail before feasting on the tasting menu in the farmhouse-style dining room. Be sure to save room for their crimson crisp apple stack cake featuring buttermilk ice cream and apple cider. 122 Blagden Alley NW, thedabney.com
Jônt
A 30-plate tasting menu sets Jônt apart from other sophisticated 14th Street favorites. The exclusive 14-seat chef’s counter invites guests to challenge their senses and dive into a palette of innovative pairings and cutting-edge flavors. With intimate bar seating, guests get a front-row seat as chefs prepare premium Japanese seafood worthy of each of its two Michelin stars. 1904 14th St. NW, jontdc.com
L’Ardente
Reflecting the glorious contrasts of Italy, this glam yet rustic spot meets all your needs for a timeless culinary experience. With pizza made in a gold-plated oven, a sizable selection of Italian wines and 40-layer lasagna, it’s no surprise L’Ardente is one of the most desirable reservations in DC. For a more private eating experience, book a table in The Galleria, filled with their collection of local art. 200 Massachusetts Ave., lardente.com
Maydan
Robust flavors command the plates that come out of Maydan’s small kitchen. Prepared in clay ovens, freshly baked bread is a cornerstone of every meal at this mecca for Middle Eastern cuisine. With a striking wood-burning stove in the center of the restaurant, it is no wonder the aromatic eatery is always packed. The plethora of flavorful offerings is even known to attract first ladies like Michelle Obama. 1346 Florida Ave. NW, maydandc.com
Métier
Only 20 guests an evening are invited to sample Métier’s seven-course tasting menu in their chic Mount Vernon escape. The experience begins in the elegant salon with a glass of Champagne and a selection of hor d’oeuvres. Afterward, make your way to the dining room and catch a glimpse of acclaimed chef Eric Ziebold as he prepares the evening’s offerings. Plus, Métier builds an entirely new menu for diners wishing to return within the same season for fresh bites. 1015 7th St. NW, metierdc.com
Rasika
Rasika Penn Quarter is one of the few upscale Indian restaurants in The District. Following its 2005 opening, the delicious cuisine and fashionable ambiance quickly won over the hearts of Washingtonians, including politicians like the Clintons and Obamas. For an elevated experience, book a seat at the chef’s table for a six-course tasting menu. There’s even a chance you’ll be dining alongside Angelina Jolie, who is known to stop by when advocating on The Hill. 633 D St. NW, rasikarestaurant.com
Rose’s Luxury
Fans of Rose’s Luxury—which pays homage to the chef’s grandmother and hostess extraordinaire—are accustomed to waiting for a coveted seat at the cherished Capitol Hill eatery. With squash blossom rangoon and callamarta alla vodka filling the five-course prix fixe menu, it’s no wonder it’s always busy. 717 8th St. SE, rosesluxury.com
Shōtō
You’re lucky to secure a seat before 9 p.m. at this Japanese restaurant, where a tartare and caviar service are the perfect precursors for wagyu tacos served on a potato chip shell. Or, opt for the premium omakase and indulge in chef selections featuring lobster, truffle and caviar. If you secure a stool at the bar, you might just get a front-row seat as executive sushi chef Kwang Kim purchases the day’s catch from Japanese fish markets. 1100 15th St. NW, @shotodc
Sushi Taro Omakase Counter
One month in advance, at midnight, the email inbox for Sushi Taro’s Omakase Counter fills with reservation requests—will you make the cut? The anticipation is certainly worth the interactive tasting menu, featuring four to six small dishes, followed by seasonal sashimi and sushi. A presentation of daily fresh fish prompts guests to make their selection, making the Counter an experience like no other. 1503 17th St. NW, sushitaro.com
Tail Up Goat
If you find yourself waiting for a table at Tail Up Goat, just remember you’re on island time. With roots in the U.S. Virgin Islands, the team behind this local spot brings laidback excellence to AdMo. Coffee-rubbed beef and smoked black cod have us swimming in Caribbean flavors worthy of their Michelin star. 1827 Adams Mill Road NW, tailupgoat.com
Photography by: Rey Lopez; Mike Fuentes
