The Perfect Getaway: A foodie weekend in Washington, D.C.
Savor chef-driven tasting menus, Union Market snack crawls, and waterfront brunches with this food-focused itinerary for a long weekend in the district.
Edited by Taylor Cahan | November 14, 2025
Washington, D.C. has quietly become one of the United States’ most exciting food cities, where MICHELIN-starred tasting menus, lively food halls, and global enclaves create a table for every craving. Each neighborhood brings its own culinary identity, from Penn Quarter’s chef-driven kitchens and Chinatown’s dumpling houses to the Ethiopian corridor near U Street and the revitalized waterfront at The Wharf. To make the most of your time and appetite, cluster your days by neighborhood and use the Metro to minimize backtracking. For splurge-worthy dinners, book reservations as soon as your travel dates are set, but consider having a walkable backup in mind for peak times. Spring’s cherry blossom season is especially busy, drawing thousands of visitors and making early planning essential.
Stay in the heart of the city at Conrad Washington, DC, a culinary destination in itself and an ideal home base within walking distance to Penn Quarter, Chinatown, and the district’s renowned museums. You’ll be greeted with modern rooms and suites with city views, unparalleled service, and curated amenities that make every return feel restorative.
Friday
Morning
Leave your luggage with the concierge at Conrad Washington, DC, before heading out for a coffee and a pastry at Dolcezza or Tatte Bakery & Café in CityCenterDC. Explore the area’s shops and seasonal art installations in Palmer Alley, then take a short stroll to the National Portrait Gallery to view paintings, photographs, and sculptures of the most influential people throughout America’s history.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon in Penn Quarter and Chinatown, two neighborhoods known for their small plates and creative lunch counters. Walk the blocks around 7th and H streets to spot chef-led kitchens, Bib Gourmand-level bistros, and casual noodle and dumpling shops. If you’re hoping for a same-day reservation, check for late lunch tables or bar seats, or simply join the locals in line for a quick bite before your evening plans. Chinatown’s restaurant scene is always evolving, making it easy to find something new and lively.
Evening
Downtown and Penn Quarter are home to several splurge-worthy MICHELIN-starred restaurants, including Sushi Nakazawa for exceptional omakase, Rania for revolutionary Indian cuisine, and minibar for a progressive tasting menu led by renowned chef José Andrés. If you have time to spare before or after your meal, take a walk to see the monuments illuminate on the National Mall. Cap your night with a craft cocktail and city views at the hotel’s seasonal rooftop bar, Summit at Conrad.
Saturday
Morning
Start your Saturday with a leisurely in-room breakfast or at a nearby café, then hop on the Metro or grab a rideshare to NoMa (north of Massachusetts Avenue) and Union Market. This area is a foodie’s heaven, with the iconic Union Market featuring over 40 of the city’s trendiest food stalls and kitchenware boutiques, and La Cosecha marketplace showcasing Latin American flavors and a calendar of cultural events. Snack-crawl your way through sweet and savory bites, from Japanese-inspired crispy omelets to artisanal brioche doughnuts. Pace yourself and try a little bit of everything for a truly unforgettable culinary adventure.
Afternoon
After your snack crawl, browse the market’s local makers and pop-up shops for gifts or edible souvenirs. When you’re ready for lunch, choose a counter with a short line or join the queue for a crowd favorite — timing is everything, so consider eating slightly before or after peak hours. Once you’ve had your fill, head back to Conrad Washington, DC to refresh and recharge.
Evening
For dinner, keep things flexible with the option to explore any of the district’s food-forward neighborhoods, like Columbia Heights or Adams Morgan. Try a variety of global flavors, from authentic Salvadoran pupusas to spicy Lao cuisine and more. If you prefer to stay close, opt for a reservation at Estuary to enjoy the bounty of the Chesapeake region just steps from your guest room.
Sunday
Morning
Brunch is a Washington, D.C. ritual, so reserve early and choose your vibe: a sunny rooftop, a cozy café, or a refined dining room. Many brunches are bottomless, and locals love to linger over creative cocktails and savory-sweet plates. Whether you’re celebrating or just easing into the day, brunch here is a social affair that sets the tone for a relaxed Sunday. Popular brunch neighborhoods include Logan Circle, Dupont Circle, and Chinatown, each with standout menus and welcoming atmospheres.
Afternoon
After brunch, head to the U Street and Shaw corridor, known as Little Ethiopia, to find Ethiopian cafés offering injera and rich stews, as well as bakeries and markets with unique snacks and coffee. If you have time, book a guided food tour, join a traditional coffee ceremony, or browse for spices to take home. This afternoon is about savoring new flavors and cultural traditions.
Evening
Wrap up the day in Dupont Circle, Logan Circle, or Georgetown, where neighborhood restaurants and dessert shops line walkable streets. Choose a casual dinner spot, then stroll to a bakery or bar for a sweet finish or a nightcap. Book dinner ahead if you have a particular place in mind, but spontaneous finds are part of the fun.
Monday
Morning
Ease into your last day with coffee and a waterfront stroll at The Wharf. The revitalized Southwest waterfront is perfect for people watching and taking in views of the Washington Channel and Potomac River. Stop by the oldest continuously operating open-air fish market in the U.S. for a glimpse of the district’s seafood tradition or grab a light breakfast at a café overlooking the water.
Afternoon
Lunch is all about seafood and harbor vibes — think crab cakes, oysters, or Lebanese mezze at a spot with outdoor seating. Depending on the season, rent a kayak or paddleboard from The Wharf Boathouse on Recreation Pier for a different perspective of the city or wander the Anacostia River Trail in the Navy Yard district. Allow extra time to reach the airport or train station for your departure.
Until next time!
Washington, D.C.’s global flavors and neighborhood energy make every visit unique. Whether you come back for cherry blossoms or another round of market snacks, there’s always something new to discover in the capital.
Disclaimer: We used AI assistance to generate this content. All information was reviewed by Hilton's team to ensure it meets our standards for accuracy and ethics, allowing us to better match your travel needs and connect you with the right stay.
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