Travel
The Tuckernuck Insider’s Guide to Washington, DC
February 3rd, 2022
If there’s one place we know and love, it’s Washington, D.C. Home to us, our headquarters and our flagship store, the historical city has beautiful scenery, a delicious culinary scene, culture, and chic shopping. In order for you to get the best experience in our favorite place, we’ve rounded up our top spots that we can’t wait for you to see.
Spend an afternoon at the National Gallery of Art.
Run or bike the national mall.
Enjoy a date night at The Kennedy Center and dinner at one of our spots below.
Take a water taxi to a Nats game.
Where to Stay
The Jefferson, Downtown
A classic, elegant, and luxury stay, The Jefferson has beautiful interiors and a cozy bar with a great piano player on the weekends. It is also walking distance from the White House and central 14th Street!
The Hay-Adams, Downtown
This is quintessential DC. A luxury spot right across from The White House, they have a great Sunday brunch and an upscale bar called Off the Record.
The Rosewood, Georgetown
The Rosewood has an amazing central location and a rooftop bar with a can't-miss view.
The Lyle, Dupont Circle
A boutique hotel with an Art Deco and very homey feel, this is a great option for a true local experience.
The Four Seasons, Georgetown
Always a treat, the Four Seasons in Georgetown is a destination particularly for its great (while pricey) restaurant and bar called Bourbon Steak.
The Riggs, Penn Quarter
Originally an old bank converted into a funky and updated hotel, The Riggs has a great lobby restaurant, and a central location that’s great for sightseeing. Make sure to try their basement bar, Silver Lyon, for the martinis!
The Salamander, The Wharf
Located along the Southwest waterfront, The Salamander features beautiful rooms, spacious suites, and the city’s finest spa and largest meeting and event space. This property was formerly The Mandarin Oriental, and it’s a great place to stay and be right near the monuments!
The Ritz-Carlton, Georgetown
This is a great boutique Ritz. It's kid-friendly because of its suites, and the location feels tucked away yet completely convenient.
The Conrad, CityCenter
The Conrad’s convenient downtown location makes it a great option for anyone traveling to DC for work. Cool interiors, welcoming service, and a fun rooftop bar are worth experiencing whether you’re staying here or not. Fun fact: we did a photo shoot here with our CEO Jocelyn!
The Poppy, Georgetown
Formerly The Avery, this quaint boutique hotel is affordable and owned by a Georgetown local. It’s right next door to Apéro, a fun cocktail bar and restaurant that also serves espresso and pastries in the morning and offers outdoor seating.
The St. Regis, Downtown
Having welcomed guests for nearly a century, The St. Regis is steps away from The White House, and within walking distance of the monuments and National Mall. It offers unparalleled luxury from the moment you arrive in its grand lobby.
InterContinental, The Wharf
The InterContinental offers unbelievable water views in a popular location. Staying here lets you stop by The Anthem for a concert, visit several restaurants and bars, and easily get to Navy Yard and Capitol Hill.
Where to Eat: Coffee / Grab & Go
Seylou, Shaw
This whole grain, locally sourced, and fresh milled sourdough bakery is the place to get the best pastries, sweet treats, and matcha lattes. They have plenty of gluten free options and a wonderful pizza night every Wednesday.
Patisserie Poupon, Georgetown
This quaint bakery steps from Book Hill is the quintessential spot for your favorite French pastries or a delicious coffee.
Call Your Mother, Georgetown
If the uber cute pink and floral decor isn’t enough to draw you in, the cult-favorite bagels and breakfast sandwiches will keep you coming back. There are many locations, but we're partial to Georgetown's.
Yellow, Georgetown
This newly-opened cafe has already made its mark on Georgetown, with an ever-present crowd. It offers a taste of the Levant with a menu of baked goods, mezze, wood-fired pita sandwiches, specialty drinks, and the best soft serve.
Baked & Wired, Georgetown
Aside from their to-die-for cupcakes, Baked & Wired serves delicious coffee & tea beverages, plus homemade pastries and breakfast treats.
Emissary, Dupont Circle
This cozy coffeehouse with exposed brick was started by two friends and yoga studio owners seeking to create a place for people to unwind and connect. Serving java, vegetarian eats, charcuterie & cocktails, the food and drink is inspired by the diverse staff and the places they’ve traveled. Plus, there’s a great happy hour!
Green Almond Pantry, Georgetown
Crafted by James Beard nominee Chef Cagla Onal, Green Almond Pantry features a rotating menu including homemade focaccia, salads, dips, and sandwiches like the beloved eggplant confit and goat feta on a baguette. Each daily chalkboard special is inspired by the morning’s deliveries from local farmers and purveyors.
Pearl's Bagels, Shaw/Mount Vernon Square
We love Pearl’s for their hand-rolled sourdough bagels, boiled and baked daily, plus their spreads, sides, coffee and tea.
Where to Eat: Brunch / Lunch
Martin’s Tavern, Georgetown
A DC staple, this institutional spot is a great, casual place for classic pub fare (get the burger) and drinks. Fun fact: every booth is named after a historical figure who was a regular at Martin’s!
Chaia, Georgetown / Chinatown
A female-owned business right across the street from our store, this adorable spot serves fresh, vegetarian tacos and delicious side additions.
Lapis, Adams Morgan
When you’re craving something a bit more exotic, this bistro with a homey charm serves an incredible and authentic Afghani brunch of kebabs, stews, and more. It's also delicious for dinner.
Le Diplomate, 14th Street District
A Stephen Starr restaurant and a DC classic, Le Diplomate is an upscale bistro that’s always vibrant and fun. We love dining on the patio during the warmer months.
Kafe Leopold, Georgetown
Located in the charming Cady’s Alley in Georgetown, Leopold’s has equally delicious coffee and pastries as it does kale salad and schnitzel. If you go on a sunny weekend day, you’re sure to find a fun and lively brunch scene.
Peacock Cafe, Georgetown
Peacock is one of those places that never disappoints because of its service, ambiance, and food. From the fresh juices to the nachos, there’s truly something for everyone.
Lutèce, Georgetown
This cozy, stylish bistro with exposed-brick walls & a changing French menu spotlights seasonal fare. You’ll find the best omelette in DC here.
Ellē, Mount Pleasant
Top talents do breakfast pastries, breads, sandwiches & coffee in this cute neighborhood joint.
Petite Cerise, Mount Vernon Square
This new French hotspot was started by the owner of The Dabney. Part casual neighborhood café, part energetic bistro, Petite Cerise welcomes you for any-time-of-day dining. We love it for brunch and dinner alike!
Blue Duck Tavern, West End
Blue Duck Tavern offers a warm and rustic feel, serving traditional American fare amid classic furnishings of dark oak and blue burlap. If you don’t go for brunch, it’s great for dinner too (even just the burger and amazing fries).
Hill East Burger, Capitol Hill
Priding itself on “smoked burgers, stiff cocktails, ice-cold beer, and great tunes on the jukebox, Hill East Burger is the perfect casual spot to get just that.
Piccolina da Centrolina, CityCenter
The little sister restaurant of Centrolina, Piccolina feels like a small osteria in Italy. From pizza and sandwiches to vegetables and omelettes, nearly everything is cooked in a wood-fired oven and inspired by the chef’s travels through Italy. Counter service invites guests to dine-in or take their food to-go.
Where to Eat: Dinner
The Dabney, Shaw/ Blagden Alley
Reservations are hard to come by, so book about a month in advance. The Dabney is located in the hip, must-see Blagden Alley, and has great farm-to-table cuisine in a cool, rustic setting.
Chez Billy Sud, Georgetown
Located across the street from The Rosewood, come here for charming interiors and classic French food. You can also walk into their cozy wine bar and still order from the full menu and bar.
Kinship, Shaw
This is perfect for a special occasion, with its classic fare and chic ambiance.
Republic Cantina, Truxton Circle
Republic Cantina is a no-fuss spot that still is our top pick for real Tex-Mex. You can walk in without an issue!
Sushi Nakazawa, Penn Quarter
Reservations are hard to come by, but this spot supposedly serves the best sushi in DC.
Centrolina, CityCenter
Located in the luxury shopping center, this Italian spot has a cool sleek setting, a female chef, an excellent market and little sister restaurant called Piccolina da Centrolina.
Rose’s Luxury, Capitol Hill
Stroll through Eastern Market before your reservation here, a cozy converted townhouse with an eclectic menu and an upstairs bar. It’s a landmark spot for a reason!
Gravitas, Ivy City
For a special occasion, this minimalist, industrial-chic venue features seasonal farm-to-table tasting menus that are fresh and delicious.
Albi, Navy Yard
“Albi,” Arabic for “heart,” is a trendy Middle Eastern eatery that serves fresh hummus, fish & meat plates, plus unique cocktails and wine.
The Red Hen, Bloomingdale
This hotspot is tough to reserve, but all of their pasta is truly unforgettable. The bar has a hip feel, so you can always walk in and sit there, but the area is somewhat remote so you may want to avoid a long wait time.
Anju, Dupont Circle
Delicious Korean food, a homey feel with exposed brick walls, and outdoor seating–Anju has quickly become a favorite.
Tail Up Goat, Adams Morgan
This cool bistro serves creative Mediterranean fare & Caribbean-inspired drinks in modern surroundings.
Shoto, Downtown
Calling all sushi lovers, this will be your new favorite spot. Shoto is super lively and full of cool decor. From classic rolls to mini tacos and a great bar, this is all around an A+ addition to the DC culinary scene.
Iron Gate, Dupont Circle
One of DC’s oldest restaurants, Iron Gate offers Italian & Greek small plates and a tasting menu in an enhanced courtyard setting. Request a table by their cozy fire pits if it’s chilly!
Rasika, Penn Quarter
If you love Indian food, you’ll love Rasika, which is just that but turned up a notch. Classic dishes with contemporary twists, a polished setting and cool lounge, plus wine and cocktails–what’s not to love?
Millie’s, Spring Valley
Millie's is a delicious and laid-back spot for families or a group of friends, complete with an outdoor patio and ice cream stand. Sip on margaritas and enjoy fish tacos, steak quesadillas, or blackened salmon salad.
Pineapple & Pearls, Capitol Hill
This ode to fine dining describes itself as “one of the best and most memorable parties you’ve ever been to, that also just happens to have some incredible food.” The menu is fixed at $345, but this four-course experience values pleasure over perfection, and is an excuse to put on your best outfit and show off.
Caruso’s Grocery, Capitol Hill
Caruso’s Grocery is modeled after the classic, Italian-American ‘red sauce’ joint. Think red banquettes, chicken parm, and Sinatra in the background. Home to traditional fare, Caruso’s Grocery focuses on old-school hits like penne alla vodka, garlic bread with four cheese sauce, and more.
El Sol, Shaw
While this is a super divey and hole-in-the-wall setting, the Tex Mex and margaritas are definitely up to standard.
Oyster Oyster, Shaw
This chic and airy setting serves up a seasonal tasting menu focused on the freshest of oysters and vegetable dishes. Oyster Oyster focuses on sustainability, working with responsible farms and producers. Plus, their wine list is spectacular.
Where to Sip
Fitzgerald’s, Georgetown
This cocktail centric bar has a cool, contemporary feel, and a curated menu of elevated bistro dishes. It’s a great place to frequent whether you’re craving an inventive cocktail and an elevated bistro dish, or a classic burger and glass of wine.
Dacha Beer Garden, Shaw/Navy Yard
The perfect spot to get your beer fix, this outdoor setting is ideal for a mid-week happy hour or a Saturday afternoon with friends. Choose from a wide selection of beers, cider, wine, cocktails, and traditional Bavarian food.
The Eastern, Eastern Market
Located in the heart of Eastern Market on Capitol Hill, this charming neighborhood wine bar is walk-in only, so try putting your name down while you stroll around Eastern Market. Definitely order the “Sunset on the Eastern,” which is their delicious take on a classic Aperol Spritz.
Death & Co., Shaw/Blagden Alley
A cocktail institution in Manhattan’s East Village, Death & Co.'s DC location is known for fine wine, exquisitely crafted cocktails, creative bartenders, and incredible servers.
Jane Jane , 14th Street District
A classic and beautifully designed cocktail bar nestled in the heart of 14th street NW, Jane Jane is a perfect spot for drinks pre or post- dinner. Be prepared for a long wait time though, since they don’t accept reservations.
The Dubliner, Capitol Hill
A Capitol Hill institution, this traditional Irish pub has been around for more than 40 years. Guinness flows here, complete with a menu of Irish & American grub (get the chicken fingers) and live music.
The Rosewood Rooftop, Georgetown
The best views in the city, hands down. Whether or not you’re staying here, be sure to grab a drink after a day of shopping in Georgetown or before dinner at Chez Billy Sud.
Off the Record, Downtown
Chosen by Forbes.com as one of the "World's Best Hotel Bars," Off The Record is a popular place for Washingtonians and guests of The Hay-Adams alike.Surrounded by caricatures of the city's political elite both past and present, this upscale bar also has a delicious food menu and wine selection.
The Fountain Inn, Georgetown
Originally established in 1783 by clockmaker John Suter, The Fountain Inn (a.k.a. Suter’s Tavern) was one of the most important taverns in American history. Today, Georgetown's The Fountain Inn commemorates the tavern’s history as “a rare spirits tasting room and bar that welcomes all through its doors.”
Reveler’s Hour, Adams Morgan
This low-lit environment is a perfect date night spot to enjoy a glass (or more) of wine. If you stay for dinner, the daily pasta dishes are a must!
Maxwell Park, Shaw
Named after the founder’s childhood playground, this playful wine bar prides itself on having a “seriously extensive wine list while not taking itself too seriously.” Maxwell acts as “a friendly compass,” pointing any and all wine drinkers in the right direction. They also offer reservations for group wine tastings!
The Doyle, Dupont Circle
Right in the heart of Dupont Circle, this glam, lounge-like cocktail bar has a lively vibe and a seasonal outside patio.
What to Do
Tour The Capitol
Download the Capital Bikeshare app and go on a a scenic bike ride. Then tour the Capitol and explore the National Mall and monuments!
Go to Union Market
Union Market’s hip indoor-outdoor scene has over 40 vendors, plus restaurants and an outdoor rooftop bar. Pro tip: go to their fish market and buy ingredients to make your own sushi!
Museum Touring
DC perk–all are free admission! The African American History Museum is exceptional, and some other favorites are The Glenstone, The Rubell, The East and West Wings at The National Gallery of Art, and The National Portrait Gallery. Plus, be sure to check out the Sculpture Garden in warmer months. In the summer, you can get tickets for live jazz and cocktails on Friday nights!
Pack A Picnic for The National Mall
Bonus: if you go in March, you may see the peak of the famous cherry blossoms!
Go To A Nats Game
Grab a drink or dinner before at All Purpose or Salt Line to enjoy water views.
Visit Rock Creek Park
This landmark trail spans the whole northwest quadrant of DC, so choose any of the 1754 acres for your scenic walk or run.
Explore Georgetown
Engage in some retail therapy (especially at our flagship store!), and walk around this charming, historic neighborhood.
See Live Entertainment
Head to 930 Club and The Anthem for concerts, DC Improv for a comedy show, and The Kennedy Center for a classic DC performance.
Tour Dumbarton Oaks
This old, historic estate at the highest point of Georgetown was established in 1920. The property contains museums with ancient Byzantine art and a world-class garden designed by landscape gardener Beatrix Farrand that is a feast for the eyes
Take an Urban Hike through Roosevelt Island
A living memorial to Theodore Roosevelt, this overgrown farmland was transformed by landscape architects to mimic natural forest that once covered the island. Go on a hike through the miles of trails or sign up for a guided walking tour!
Visit Old Town, Alexandria
Go on a Saturday for the farmer’s market, and walk along King St. for boutique shopping and lunch.
Go to Eastern Market
This public market in Capitol Hill is housed in a 19th-century brick building and has everything from coffee and ice cream to fresh meats, fish, and sauces. Stop by anytime of day for a treat or for your dinner ingredients!
Where to Shop
Tuckernuck's Flagship Store
