3 Best French Restaurants in Washington, DC

“Le Diplomate serves classic French fare and drinks in a relaxed atmosphere. Their extensive menu is a treasure trove of Gallic delights, featuring an array of beloved French classics such as steak frites, escargots, onion soup gratinée, and daily plates like bouillabaisse and cassoulet. Le Diplomate offers a thoughtfully curated wine list that transports you to the vineyards of France and a specialty cocktail program that adds an extra touch of elegance to your dining experience. You can enjoy their delicious Beef Bourguignon, Burger Américain, Halibut Bourride, and Trout Amandine. Gift cards are available. Free street parking and gift cards are available. This is a stylish 260-seat restaurant. Walk-in guests are always welcome. Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. They also provide Group Dining. The semi-private L’Orangerie has seating for up to 46, and the semi-private and enclosed Terrace has seating for up to 60. Group dinner is available seven days a week. Private luncheons are available Monday through Friday. Their Weekend Menu is available Saturday and Sunday from 3 pm to 5 pm.”

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“Bistrot Du Coin Washington is a bustling restaurant with vintage posters, mussels by the bucket, and other classic French and Belgian fare. The restaurant has an extensive wine list and offers cocktails and apéritif. Bistrot Du Coin offers hearty starters such as French onion soup and fresh, crisp salads, steamed mussels, and sautéed foie gras. The restaurant's menu has vegetarian and gluten-free menu options. You can Enjoy authentic French classics 365 days a year, seven days a week. They also charge a corkage fee $37 for every 750ml bottle. Walk-ins are also available. Depending on availability and reservations, they will get you seated as soon as possible. Bistrot Du Coin has been awarded as one of the Washingtonian Magazine's Top 100 Restaurants. Bistrot Du Coin is also known for its parties, which are held three times a year to celebrate famous French events such as Bastille Day on July 14th, The Beaujolais Nouveau on the third Thursday of November, or New Year's Eve. They accept walk-in parties for up to 10 guests. Gift cards are available.”

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“Central Michel Richard Washington offers a delightful fusion of culinary traditions. The restaurant is famous for fried chicken, with classic French dishes like pâté; the restaurant provides a unique dining experience. David Deshaies is The Chef Partner, and David Barigault is the Executive Chef of Central Michel Richard. Giovani Flores is the Executive Sous Chef, and Boris Ristic is the General Manager of this restaurant. Michel was awarded the 2007 James Beard Award for Outstanding Chef and won the 2008 James Beard Award for Best New Restaurant in the United States. The aim was to create a welcoming and approachable restaurant, offering delectable food at a price that makes you invite more friends. The menu at Central Michel Richard features a variety of options to suit different palates. Guests can enjoy the flexibility of a lunch or dinner 3-course prix-fixe menu. The expansive main dining room can accommodate up to 120 seated guests or 250 for receptions. They offer ample street and garage parking surrounding the restaurant. Savor the Mid-Day Lunch Menu at $39 Per Person Monday to Friday, 2:30-4:30 pm. The bar features a giant wine display and lots of seating. Grilled Branzino Nicoise, Profiteroles, and St Jude Snow Man are highly recommended dishes. Gift cards are also available.”

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