Mitsitam Cafe, meaning "Let's eat!" in the Native language of the Delaware and Piscataway peoples, is a unique cafeteria-style eatery inside the National Museum of the American Indian. Mitsitam Café offers indigenous cuisine from different regions of the Americas, including fry bread, wild rice salad, buffalo burgers, and more. Enjoy a delicious breakfast while exploring the museum.
Union Market is a famous gourmet food hall in DC that offers a wide range of food and drinks from local vendors. You can find everything from seafood to sweets, craft cocktails, and more. Enjoy the colorful and vibrant atmosphere, along with the delicious food. If time permits, check out the nearby Gallaudet University, the world-renowned school for the deaf and hard of hearing.
Founding Farmers is a farm-to-table restaurant that prides itself on serving fresh and sustainably sourced food. They have an extensive menu with plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options, including salads, burgers, sandwiches, and more. Try their famous skillet cornbread or craft cocktails while enjoying the rustic ambiance.
The Wharf is a lively waterfront destination with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Take a stroll along the boardwalk, check out the live music and street performances, or rent a paddleboat to explore the Potomac River. There are plenty of dining options, including seafood restaurants, Mexican grills, and more to satisfy any cravings. You can also see the famous Waterfront Fountain with its synced rock and water shows.
Zaytinya is a famous Mediterranean restaurant helmed by famous chef José Andrés. They offer a variety of mezze-style dishes inspired by Turkish, Lebanese, and Greek cuisine. Try the lamb kebab, mezze platter, or the famous crispy Brussels Sprouts while enjoying the chic and sophisticated ambiance.
DC has a great public transportation system like buses and trains, but the above locations are easily reachable by cab or ride-hailing services like Uber or Lyft, costs may vary from $15 to $30. Traffic can be quite thick at major streets and traffic signals should also be considered while planning transportation.
If you have more time, visit this well-known landmark, the White House. Washington's Nature Zoo and Smithsonian museums are also great options. If you have less time, eliminate visiting Union Market and proceed directly to Zaytinya. This itinerary is perfect for those who want to taste the diverse cuisine of DC, but you can modify it to suit your interests.
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) is the prime airport located 4 miles south of the DC city center, and it is easily accessible via the local Metrorail network. Dulles Airport (IAD) is also nearby at a distance of 27 miles from the city center.