From world class Indian to Japanese cuisine, securing a reservation at one of these coveted dining destinations is no easy feat. 
Bad Saint
Show up early if you hope to secure one of only 24 spots at this Filipino eatery. The lucky few who manage to score a seat are treated to a limited and ever-rotating menu. You’re never exactly sure what delicacy to expect at this Columbia Heights sanctum, but with authentic recipes featuring fresh seafood, creamy coconut milk and tender duck legs, you’re in for a treat. 3226 11th St. NW, badsaintdc.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 sugar snap pea cocktail and selections from their snack menu before feasting in the farmhouse style dining room. Be sure to save room for their bourbon brown sugar ice cream served with marshmallow, chocolate shortbread and candied ginger. 122 Blagden Alley NW, 202.450.1015, thedabney.com
Jônt
A 32 preparation 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
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 twenty 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 selection of hor d'oeuvres. Afterwards, 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, 202.737.7500, metierdc.com
Rasika
Rasika Penn Quarter is one of 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 that you’ll be dining alongside Angelina Jolie who is known to stop by when advocating on The Hill. 633 D Street NW, 202.637.1222, 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 soft shell crab and cacio e pepe souffle filling the menu, it’s no wonder it’s always busy. Looking to avoid the crowd? The private rooftop garden is a peaceful spot to indulge in an upgraded prix fixe menu with 11 of your closest friends. 717 8th St. SE, 202.742.3570, 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
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. Golden tilefish and coconut panna cotta have us swimming in Caribbean flavors, worthy of their Michelin star. 1827 Adams Mill Road NW, tailupgoat.com
Photography by: Jay Wennington/Unsplash
