Washington, DC has emerged as a real foodie destination in recent years and this is something that’s only continuing to grow and be recognised. Since Michelin chose DC in 2017 to spotlight its dynamic food scene, the city has really emerged as a culinary hotstop and there are now 25 Michelin-starred restaurants across 37+ distinct cuisines.
The city’s dining scene is as international as the people who call it home, reflecting a global capital where cultures, stories and flavours intersect. In DC, 94% of restaurants are independently owned and operated, each adding a personal touch to DC’s collective table. From family-owned eateries to avant-garde tasting counters, every meal tells a story of authenticity, creativity and connection.
Last week, the MICHELIN Guide once again turned its spotlight on DC, announcing eight new additions that showcase the city’s extraordinary culinary range and spirit of innovation.
Michelin Guide Restaurants in Washington, DC New For 2025
While Washington, DC has a thriving Michelin scene already, here are the new additions to the guide for 2025 that you just have to visit.
Fish Shop
A UK import making waves at The Wharf, Fish Shop brings sustainable seafood traditions from both sides of the Atlantic to Washington DC’s buzzing waterfront. Fish Shop is a celebration of the fishing communities and traditions that are at the heart of Chesapeake Bay, reflecting their mission to bring together food, culture and community. With a focus on freshness, seasonality, and traceability, it’s a masterclass in simple food done exceptionally well and you can see why it’s on the list of Michelin guide restaurants in Washington, DC for 2025. Expect oysters, fish and chips, and coastal-inspired small plates served with understated British charm, proof that sustainability and flavour can go hand in hand at one of DC’s most exciting dining destinations.
Karravaan
At Karravaan, the story of the Silk Road unfolds through every bite. This restaurant celebrates the movement of people and flavours across continents into one cohesive culinary journey. The result? A bold, aromatic menu that’s as adventurous as it is comforting, showcasing how DC’s global dining scene continues to redefine fine dining diversity. They describe themselves as “timeless favorites, lost recipes, and unique combinations that coalesce into an original experience that is steeped in tradition but far from traditional.”
Elmina
Elmina honours Ghanaian heritage through the visionary lens of Chef Eric Adjepong. Each dish tells a story, blending bold African flavours with art, culture, and history. It’s not just about what’s on the plate, it’s about connection, identity, and pride. With its striking interiors and powerful storytelling, Elmina stands among DC’s most original and soulful fine dining experiences, earning its place in the conversation around Michelin restaurants in Washington DC.
La’Shukran
Perched high above the city, La’Shukran captures the warmth and generosity of Levantine hospitality in a rooftop setting like no other. Helmed by James Beard Award winner Michael Rafidi, this Mediterranean-inspired restaurant combines modern technique with traditional heart. Think wood-fired dishes, bright flavours, and a vibrant atmosphere that’s both refined and relaxed and offers a true celebration of food, family, and friendship with a view to match. A fantastic addition to a list of Michelin restaurants in Washington, DC for 2025.
PhoXotic
A real in the capital, PhoXotic offers halal and vegan pho inspired by a cherished family recipe. Authentic, soulful, and deeply comforting, it’s the kind of place where locals gather after hours and visitors discover something special. Its commitment to flavour, care, and community makes it a standout in DC’s evolving food landscape.
Providencia
Describing themselves as a “love letter to the immigrant experience,” Providencia is a melting pot of inspiration, blending Asian, Caribbean, and Latin American cuisines into one. Tucked away just off H Street’s buzzing trolley-lined street, this 22-seat bar offers more than food and drinks, it offers a culinary journey. Every dish bursts with energy and emotion, offering a fresh perspective on fusion dining done right. With its lively atmosphere and unapologetically creative menu, Providencia proves that Washington DC’s fine dining scene isn’t afraid to take risks, or to celebrate the diverse voices shaping it.
Raw Omakase
With just eight seats and a minimalist aesthetic, Raw Omakase invites diners into a world of quiet precision and meticulous craftsmanship. Each course unfolds like poetry, marrying Japanese tradition with Mid-Atlantic ingredients. From pristine sashimi to delicate bites that highlight seasonality, it’s an experience that feels both intimate and beautiful and is a real gem among Michelin-calibre restaurants in Washington DC.
Your Only Friend
Cheeky name aside, Your Only Friend is serious about sandwiches. This unexpected hotspot turns everyday comfort food into high art, fusing fine dining technique with dive-bar attitude. Creative fillings, impeccable bread, and playful presentation make it a local obsession, and a reminder that Michelin-worthy creativity doesn’t always come on a white tablecloth. It’s DC’s laid-back sophistication, bottled in one unforgettable bite.
As Michelin continues to expand and diversify its list in Washington, DC, the city’s dining landscape is richer and more dynamic than ever. Whether you’re booking a dreamy tasting menu or discovering a newly-listed gem, D.C. is a foodie destination that needs to be on your list. What do you think of these Michelin guide restaurants in Washington, DC for 2025? Let us know!
