Best Authentic Restaurants in Mount Vernon

Lovely French cafe serving good coffee, pastries, and typical small dishes like moules, rilettes, crepes, omelettes. Ambience is cozy

Truly delicious food in lovely setting. Enjoyed a leisurely lunch. The tables are a bit too close to one another, so when they fill up, you can find yourself bumping into (or getting bumped by) fellow diners. You might expect this at a popular (for good reason) restaurant, but at times it disrupts an otherwise lovely experience. This also leads to servers being a bit over taxed by having to tend to too many customers at once, and we had to ask multiple times for drink refills or missing cutlery. To be fair, this was not the fault of the server, just the nature of the situation. Highly recommend Rumi’s Kitchen, though sharing these experiences in case it helps others know what to expect during peaks hours when the restaurant is full.

Everything we ate was delicious! We loved the corn empanadas and the wagyu fajitas!

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.

An awesome experience! Highly recommend and will be back. Made a reservation for lunch for a party of 6. We were seated within 5 minutes of arrival. We were seated in a back corner and it was very hot when we sat down. The management adjusted the temperature when we informed them. Three of us got the Chef’s Tasting Menu and I added the Wine Pairing for an extra $45. The others ordered off the lunch menu. We enjoyed everything and plenty of food with the Tasting Menu. Highly recommend!