The Tuckernuck Insider’s Guide to Washington, DC

A classic, elegant, and luxury stay, The Jefferson has beautiful interiors and a cozy bar with a great piano player on weekends. It is also walking distance to central 14th Street!

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 has an amazing central location and a rooftop for great views and drinks.

A boutique hotel with an Art Deco and very homey feel, this is a great option for a true local experience.

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 was originally an old bank and was renovated into a funky and updated hotel. With a great bar and restaurant, this centrally located hotel is great for sightseeing.

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!

This is a great boutique Ritz Carlton. It's kid-friendly because of their suites, and the location feels tucked away yet completely convenient.

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 there or not. Fun fact: we did a photo shoot here with our CEO Jocelyn!

Formerly The Avery, this quaint boutique hotel is affordable and owned by a local Georgetown man. It’s right next door to Apero, a fun cocktail bar and restaurant that also serves espresso and pastries in the morning and offers outdoor seating.

Having welcomed guests for nearly a century, the St. Regis is steps away from the White House, and within walking distance to the monuments and National Mall. It offers unparalleled luxury from the moment you arrive in its grand lobby.

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.

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.

This quaint bakery steps from Book Hill is the quintessential spot for your favorite French pastries or a delicious coffee.

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. 

This newly-opened cafe has already made its mark in 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.

Aside from their to-die-for cupcakes, Baked & Wired serves delicious coffee & tea beverages, plus homemade pastries and breakfast treats. 

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! 

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. 

We love Pearl’s for their hand-rolled sourdough bagels, boiled and baked daily, plus their spreads, sides, coffee and tea.

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!

A female-owned business right across the street from our store, this adorable spot serves fresh, vegetarian tacos and delicious side additions.

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.

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.

Located in the charming Cady’s Alley in Georgetown, Leopold’s has equally delicious coffee and pastries as a kale salad or schnitzel. If you go on a sunny weekend day, you’re sure to find a fun and lively brunch scene.

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.

This cozy, stylish bistro with exposed-brick walls & a changing French menu spotlights seasonal fare. You’ll find the best omelette in DC here. 

Top talents do breakfast pastries, breads, sandwiches & coffee in this cute neighborhood joint. 

This new French hotspot is 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 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). 

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.

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.

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.

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. 

This is perfect for a special occasion, with its classic fare and chic ambiance.

Republic Cantina is a no-fuss spot that still is our top pick for real Tex-Mex. You can walk in without an issue!

Reservations are hard to come by, but this spot supposedly serves the best sushi in DC. 

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. 

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!

For a special occasion, this minimalist, industrial-chic venue features seasonal farm-to-table tasting menus that are fresh and delicious.

“Albi,” Arabic for “heart,” is a trendy Middle Eastern eatery that serves fresh hummus, fish & meat plates, plus unique cocktails and wine.

This hotspot is tough to reserve, but any of their pasta dishes 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.

Delicious Korean food, a homey feel with exposed brick walls, and outdoor seating–Anju has quickly become a favorite. 

This cool bistro serves creative Mediterranean fare & Caribbean-inspired drinks in modern surroundings.

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.

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! 

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 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.

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 is modeled after the classic, Italian-American ‘red sauce’ joint. Think red banquettes, chicken parm, and Sinatra in the background. Home to traditional Italian-American fare, Caruso’s Grocery focuses on old-school hits like penne alla vodka, garlic bread with four cheese sauce, and more.

While this is a super divey and hole-in-the-wall setting, the Tex Mex and margaritas are definitely up to standard. 

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. 

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. 

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, and traditional Bavarian food. 

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. 

A cocktail institution in Manhattan’s East Village with outposts in Los Angeles and Denver, Death & Co is coming to DC in summer 2023, in the former Columbia Room space. It’s known for fine wine, exquisitely crafted cocktails, creative bartenders, and incredible servers.

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. 

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), plus live music.

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. 

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.

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.” 

This low-lit environment is a perfect date night spot to enjoy a glass (or more) of wine. Plus if you decide to stay for dinner, the daily-changing pasta dishes are a must! 

Named after the founder’s childhood playground, this playful wine bar prides itself on having a “seriously extensive wine list while not taking themselves too seriously.” Maxwell acts as “a friendly compass,” pointing any and all wine drinkers in the right direction.

Right in the heart of Dupont Circle, this glam, lounge-like cocktail bar has a lively vibe and a seasonal outside patio. 

Download the Capitol Bikeshare app and rent a Capitol bike to mix up your walk. Tour the Capitol and explore the National Mall and monuments.

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!

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!

Bonus: if you go in March, you may see the peak of the famous cherry blossoms!

Grab a drink or dinner before at All Purpose or Salt Line to enjoy water views.

This landmark trail spans the whole northwest quadrant of DC, so choose any of the 1754 acres for your scenic walk or run. 

Engage in some retail therapy (especially at our flagship store!), and walk around this charming, historic neighborhood.

Head to 930 Club and The Anthem for concerts, DC Improv for a comedy show, and The Kennedy Center for a classic DC performance.

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. The upper sixteen acres were transferred to Harvard University in 1940 to establish a research institute for Byzantine Studies, Pre-Columbian Studies, and Garden and Landscape Studies.

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!  

Go on a Saturday for the farmer’s market, and walk along King St. for boutique shopping and lunch.

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! 

Go thrifting and stop at this cute Georgetown consignment store with high-end women's designer clothes, shoes & bags with a seasonal rotation.

These are owned by a local DC woman, and are great spots for gifts.

A specialty and artisanal boutique, this store has been around for more than twenty years and has a sophisticated and worldly aesthetic.

Known for its antique stores, art galleries, and boutiques, this quaint neighborhood has a European flair that makes you want to stay a while. One of our favorite stores is A Mano, full of treasures that make the perfect gift for yourself or someone else.

A no-brainer that’s sure to entertain. Go to Duke’s Grocery afterwards for lunch!

We know the DC museum scene is incredible, but those that are particularly appealing to kids are The Children’s Museum, The Spy Museum, The Natural History Museum, and The Air & Space Museum. 

This ride has beautiful views of The Mall! Stop at Municipal Fish Market on Maine Ave for a yummy seafood lunch when you arrive.

Bishop’s Garden is one of our favorite spots to explore. Afterwards, stop for a meal at 2 Amys for pizza, Cactus Cantina for Tex Mex, or Jettie’s for sandwiches.