Washington, D.C., celebrates international flair with a wealth of French restaurants. From fine dining to jovial bistro style, the city's restaurants present European décor and classic recipes. Rub elbows with politicians and tourists, diplomats and local residents when you dine at the French restaurants in Washington, D.C.
Marcel's
The Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington awarded Chef of the Year in 2009 to Chef Robert Wiedmaier, owner and proprietor of Marcel's. The restaurant's menu is classic French, with the sauces and techniques that define the cuisine. Known for its pre-theater dinner, Marcel's offers executive car service to and from Kennedy Center. The expansive wine bar features live entertainment and an extensive collection from France and surrounding countries. The restaurant is open seven nights a week, and advance reservations are highly recommended.
Marcel's
2401 Pennsylvania Ave. NW
Washington, DC 20037
(202) 296-1166
marcelsdc.com
Café La Ruche
Enjoy the buzzing activity of a French bistro at this restaurant named for a beehive. Chef Jean-Claude Cauderlier presides over the activity, keeping the atmosphere light and neighborly. Champagne, red wine and white wine are served by the glass, or order a bottle for the table. The restaurant serves both lunch and dinner and is open Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. for brunch.
Café La Ruche
1039 31st St. NW
Washington, DC 20007
(202) 965-2684
cafelaruche.com
La Chaumiere
Enjoy a country inn dining experience at this restaurant in the Georgetown area of Washington, DC. Chef Patrick Orange keeps the focus on fresh seasonal produce and locally grown meat. Meals are served in a rustic dining room with wooden beams and an open fireplace. Signature dishes include a chef's pate, cassoulet and tripes, and a decadent gateau au chocolat. La Chaumiere is open for lunch Monday through Friday and for dinner on Monday through Saturday.
La Chaumiere
2813 M St. NW
Washington, DC 20007
(202) 338-1784
lachaumieredc.com
Bistrot Du Coin
Drop by this corner café in the Dupont Circle area to sample their renowned pommes frites, onion soup and tartines---open-face sandwiches. Open every day of the year except Labor Day, a late-night crowd drinks and dines until 11:00 p.m. Sunday to Wednesday, and until 1:00 a.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Join fellow Francophiles to celebrate Bastille Day and Beaujolais Nouveau, where the Mayor of Washington often pops the first cork.
Bistrot Du Coin
1738 Connecticut Ave. NW
Washington, DC 20009
(202) 234-6969
bistrotducoin.com
About The Author
Denise Schoonhoven is a veteran author of marketing collateral material, business-to-business advertising copy and quality assurance documentation. She has written for various fields, including publishing, acoustics, biological raw materials and radiant heating. An experienced business traveler, Schoonhoven has lived and worked in London, San Francisco, New York City, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and the Pacific Northwest.
