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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Mount Rainier

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87 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Bresca restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(858)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • U Street Corridor
Booked 14 times today
Bresca, nestled in the vibrant U Street Corridor of Washington, DC, is a beacon of contemporary French cuisine. The restaurant has garnered glowing accolades for its innovative approach to French dining, skillfully blending Eastern and Western culinary traditions under the guidance of Chef Ryan Ratino. Diners rave about the exceptional quality of dishes such as the Potato Pierogi and Diver Scallop, highlighting the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients which "sing of summer." The atmosphere is described as a perfect mix of cozy bistro charm and refined elegance, making every visit memorable. With accolades like "best duck I’ve ever had" and experiences that exceed expectations, Bresca stands out as a pinnacle of culinary excellence and creativity.
A photo of The Park at 14th restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2894)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 68 times today
At The Park at 14th in Downtown Washington D.C., seafood enthusiasts are treated to an exquisite dining experience that tantalizes the taste buds with its high-quality and authentic seafood dishes. Nestled with a stunning view of Franklin Square, this venue is consistently praised for its culinary delights. Guests rave about the "amazing" seafood options, with particular shout-outs to the "blackened salmon that was worth every penny" and the "exceptionally delicious grits." The atmosphere is matched by the vibrant and attentive service, ensuring every seafood dish is a hit. As one reviewer put it, the food is "outstanding," making The Park at 14th a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-tier seafood experience in the heart of the capital.
A photo of Tabard Inn restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(3753)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Dupont Circle
Booked 40 times today
At the heart of Dupont Circle in Washington lies the Tabard Inn, a culinary gem renowned for its exceptional Continental cuisine. Since 1922, this historic venue has served as a charming retreat, consistently delighting diners with its authentic and beautifully crafted dishes. Under the guidance of Executive Chef Matthew Zafrir, whose stellar background includes stints at notable D.C. establishments, the Tabard Inn offers a sophisticated menu that skillfully blends traditional favorites with inventive new offerings. Diners rave about the "delightful seasonal treats" like the gazpacho and rockfish, and the "succulent" chicken fricassee. The ambiance, described as a "cozy restaurant with great foods and warm services," complements the dining experience, making every visit memorable. Whether enjoying a meal on the picturesque patio or in the eclectic dining rooms, guests at the Tabard Inn are treated to a slice of Continental excellence that's both comforting and exciting.
A photo of Michele’s restaurant
4.1
Excellent(289)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • West Loop
Booked 3 times today
Michele's, located in the vibrant West Loop of Washington, offers a delightful take on Contemporary French cuisine, crafted by MICHELIN-starred Chef Matt Baker. This restaurant stands out for its commitment to seasonal and high-quality ingredients, presented in a manner that's both sophisticated and accessible. Guests rave about the innovative dishes, like the "beef tartare and the potato truffle tarte … WOW," highlighting the unique blend of flavors that Chef Baker brings to the table. The atmosphere is described as perfect for any occasion, from a casual burger night to a special date, with live music and prime steaks enhancing the experience. Michele's not only promises but delivers a "delightful dining experience" with each visit, making it a must-visit destination for lovers of fine Contemporary French dining in Washington D.C.
A photo of Founding Farmers & Distillers DC: Chinatown restaurant
4.4
Awesome(10283)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Mount Vernon Square
Booked 125 times today
At Founding Farmers & Distillers DC: Chinatown, located in the vibrant Mount Vernon Square of Washington, D.C., the essence of Contemporary American cuisine is celebrated with an innovative twist. Esteemed for its commitment to farm-to-table freshness and a menu rich in diversity, this restaurant stands out for its authentic American flavors blended with local influences. Praised for its “amazing food” and “excellent service,” patrons consistently applaud the quality and creativity of dishes like the Chinese fried chicken and the house-made cornbread. As one diner raved, it’s “definitely something to put on your bucket list.” The restaurant’s robust connection with American family farmers ensures that each meal is not only delightful but also rooted in sustainability and community support. With a lively ambiance and a menu that caters to varied palates, Founding Farmers & Distillers is a must-visit for anyone seeking a genuine taste of Contemporary American cuisine in the heart of the capital.
A photo of Dauphine’s restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1382)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 5 times today
Dauphine’s in Downtown, Washington, D.C., is not just a restaurant but a vibrant celebration of New Orleans culture, particularly renowned for its exceptional Cocktail Bar. Patrons rave about their "refreshing and delicious" seasonal spritz and the "delightful spritz cocktail," highlighting the bar's creativity and quality. The cocktail list perfectly complements their New Orleans-inspired cuisine, creating a truly transportive experience. Whether it's the lively ambiance during happy hour or the elegant setting for a night out, each drink is crafted with meticulous care. As one reviewer puts it, the cocktails are "interesting and delicious," making Dauphine’s a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts in the capital.
A photo of Smoke and Mirrors - DC restaurant
4.3
Awesome(851)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Navy Yard
Booked 28 times today
Welcome to Smoke & Mirrors! We are a casual elegant social experience serving tapas style dishes envisioned to be shared. Our cocktail program features original craft recipes and modern twists on classics. Join us for a beautiful sunset view of our Nation's Capitol. We strongly encourage reservations as our walk-in space is limited as we operate on a two-hour table limit for reservations**Outside reservation requests are first come first serve and not guaranteed. Last seating is at 9 o'clock. After 9:15pm, we move to open seating with bar service. Parties of 12 or more will require a minimum spend.
A photo of The Greenhouse at The Jefferson, DC restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1070)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 8 times today
Located in downtown DC, just four blocks from the White House, breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch are served under The Jefferson’s historic skylight in The Greenhouse. Natural light streams from above, creating an airy atmosphere that complements the light, fresh and energizing fare on our seasonal menus.
A photo of Upstairs at the Morrow restaurant
4.3
Awesome(11)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • NoMa
Booked 6 times today
Upstairs at The Morrow, nestled in the heart of NoMa, Washington, D.C., is a beacon of American cuisine crafted by Michelin-starred Chef Nicholas Stefanelli. This rooftop haven offers a spectacular panorama of the city, complementing its authentically American menu. Guests rave about the "top-notch cocktails" and the ambiance that combines modern chic with comforting American flair. The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident, with diners frequently praising the "amazing food" and the attentive service. It's the perfect spot for anyone seeking a taste of America's rich culinary heritage, wrapped in a luxurious yet approachable environment. Whether it's for a sunset sparkling wine or a hearty American meal, Upstairs at The Morrow promises an unforgettable dining experience.
A photo of Estuary restaurant
4.5
Awesome(693)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Penn Quarter
Booked 20 times today
Estuary celebrates contemporary American cuisine, embracing the rich bounty of the Chesapeake region. Chef Arturo brings his Mexican heritage into every dish, adding bold, flavorful twists to traditional Mid-Atlantic fare. Expect a harmonious blend of regional ingredients and savory, vibrant flavors that create an unforgettable dining experience.Step into our meticulously designed space, where modern aesthetics meet floor-to-ceiling windows providing a magnificent urban bird’s eye view of Washington, DC.To complement the fusion of flavors on your plate, we present an extensive selection of meticulously curated wines and handcrafted cocktails.Our team of expert sommeliers is always on hand to guide you in choosing the perfect pairing, guaranteeing an exquisite dining experience.Our dedicated staff is committed to providing impeccable and knowledgeable service, ensuring that your visit exceeds all expectations.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Malena
    Los Angeles •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Founding Farmers & Distillery - A Must-Visit Gem in D.C. If you’re in Washington, D.C., and looking for a dining experience that hits all the marks, Founding Farmers & Distillery is it. From the moment you step in, the ambience sets the perfect tone—warm, inviting, and effortlessly chic. The food is absolutely phenomenal! Every dish is crafted with care, bursting with fresh flavors that make it clear why this place is a local favorite. Their in-house drinks are next-level—whether you’re into cocktails, spirits, or mocktails, every sip is a testament to their craft. The fact that they distill their own spirits adds an authentic and unforgettable touch. What truly elevated our visit was the service. Christian, our server, was exceptional. Friendly, professional, and incredibly attentive, he went above and beyond to ensure our meal was flawless. His enthusiasm and genuine care made us feel like VIPs. Whether it’s a casual outing, date night, or celebration, Founding Farmers & Distillery offers an unparalleled experience. It’s the kind of place you’ll rave about long after your visit—and start planning your next trip back before you even leave! 10/10 recommend.
    More info
    Founding Farmers & Distillers DC: ChinatownPrice: Moderate• American• Mount Vernon Square
    4.4
  • David
    Greater Boston •12 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Outstanding service. We appreciated the description of all the courses, the ingredients and those not to be overlooked. to be missed. First off, I noticed that the server noted in writing my "deadly" allergy to oysters. The Thanksgiving special tastings was inspired so we now look forward to a "school night" dinner. Oh ! an easy to converse rooms, but maybe someone could fine-tune the play list..... Maybe a task with so many generations, from infants to elders, in the room. DMM
    More info
    BrescaPrice: Expensive• Contemporary French / American• U Street Corridor
    4.6
  • Elliot
    Washington, D.C. Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    It's been many years since I've been to the Tabard Inn, so long ago that I was living in Dupont on Riggs Place. It was low key and funky and much smaller. The present version is very different but equally enjoyable. Larger, still good food, but more space and fewer distractions. A great place to meet for breakfast and escape from the bustling of one of Washington's friendliest circles.
    More info
    Tabard InnPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Dupont Circle
    4.7
  • Majia
    New York City •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    The Park at 14th was a great experience! The vibes were so lively, the music was a 10/10 played all the good hits (hip hop, rap, rnb, Caribbean). The food was really good, and worth the price, the mimosas were more champagne then juice/flavor so if ordering different flavors you wont really be able to tell the difference! the service was good, our waitress was nice, attentive and gave us complimentary shots. The music and energy is definitely loud, so if thats not ur vibe then it may not be the place for you, but you will have a good time! they make sure of that of course being that the food and mimosas are unlimited!
    More info
    The Park at 14thPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown
    4.7
  • Connor
    Denver / Colorado •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    We had an amazing experience here! We came to celebrate my mom’s birthday and the staff went above and beyond for us! I wish I could remember the servers name because he was amazing! I would definitely come back again!
    More info
    Michele’sPrice: Expensive• Contemporary French / American• West Loop
    4.1
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