The temperature is rising, blossoms are blooming, and the sun is making it’s long-awaited appearance. Spring has finally sprung in Washington, and with it comes excitement to finally enjoy a meal outside (without a heavy coat). If you’re looking for the best patios and rooftops for outdoor dining this Spring in DC, look no further! These Instagrammable restaurants are the perfect place to get your grub on and enjoy the view.
Hot Tip: If you’re looking for a weekend getaway from the city soon, be sure to check out 8 Amazing Weekend Getaways from Washington DC
El Techo
606 Florida Ave NW, Washington, D.C., DC 20001
Teleport to your own tropical vacation on El Techo’s 1100 rooftop deck in DC’s Shaw neighborhood. Serving classic cocktails, Latin-inspired tapas and entrees, and plenty of vacation vibes (the decorations are sourced from Mexico!), you can find an escape from the city and adult treehouse vibes.
The Dabney
122 Blagden Alley NW, Washington, D.C., DC 20001
Blagden Alley is the epitome of Instagrammable, and The Dabney is no exception. The restaurant gives a casual, yet sophisticated, vibe with it’s exposed brick walls and wood decorations. Aside from the ambiance and wood-fired hearth, the food is sourced from the best farms in the Mid-Atlantic. The selection boasts creative dishes such as pumpernickel toast with strawberry and rhubarb and olive farm pork with brown butter vinaigrette.
Columbia Room
124 Blagden Alley NW, Washington, D.C., DC 20001
Speaking of Blagden Alley, Columbia Room is one of the prettiest patios I’ve ever been to. Lush, green plants adorn the ceilings and walkways, making you feel like you’ve entered a botanical garden. Alongside the scenery, the spot boasts seasoned bartenders and an expansive cocktail list that’s been expertly curated. Inside, the mood shifts completely with cherry wood bookshelves, brown leather seats, and navy blue walls, giving true speakeasy vibes. If you have an affinity for once-in-a-lifetime drinks, this is your spot.
Officina
1120 Maine Ave SW, Washington, D.C., DC 20024
A day at The Wharf is always a good day, and Officina’s rooftop is the icing on the cake. The Italian-inspired culinary collective is the brainchild of the Chef Nicholas Stefanelli of Michelin-star-level Masseria. The rooftop Pergola and balcony seating is a perch of your dreams, providing picturesque views of The Wharf. The restaurant itself has four sections with different offerings – the ground-floor, cafe, bar, market, and terazza (rooftop). Talk about selections!
Masseria
1340 4th St NE, Washington, D.C., DC 20002
Speaking of Masseria and its Michelin Star, Chef Nicholas Stefanelli makes his second appearance on this list for this Instagrammable patio. Inspired by his upbringing in the Puglia region, the fashion-savvy restaurant encompasses the warm welcome of the masseria – AKA, farmhouse in Italian. The courtyard experience features small bites and drinks.
Residents DC
1306 18th St NW, Washington, D.C., DC 20036
Located in the heart of Dupont Circle, Residents DC is a casual-chic café bar that is top tier in both service and cuisine. The restaurant was founded by immigrants who all eventually touched down in DC, becoming well… residents of both this country and city. The open-air patio is comfy yet gorgeous with the touches of greenery and cushioned wood benches. For the spring, the Fish Sandwich and the Thai Basil Cocktail were perfection alongside the vinaigrette salad. Chef’s kiss!
Hook Hall
3400 Georgia Ave NW, Washington, D.C., DC 20010
Two seasons at Hook Hall never look the same – their creativity is astounding! In the winter, they had a Viking Village. Last summer, it was an Outdoor Oasis. This spring, they created a Celebrate the Blossoms haven. A few things remain consistent: the great food, vibes, and private cabanas for rent! How cool is that? Keep your eye on this spot to see what they come up with next. Either way, it’s always the talk of the town.
TAKODA
715 Florida Ave NW, Washington, D.C., DC 20001
TAKODA is a beer garden, whiskey bar, and restaurant in Shaw with casual vibes in an industrial space. Serving All-American favorites, amazing happy hour specials, and a bottomless brunch that will make your head spin, the spot is great to relax and hang out with friends. If you’re looking for a good mix of casual with ambient decor, TAKODA is your spot.
Hi-Lawn / Union Market
1309 5th St NE Rooftop, Washington, D.C., DC 20002
Hi-Lawn just took picnicking to a whole new level. Sitting atop of Union Market, a large food warehouse with tons of food vendors, the spot is a nice rooftop escape from the bustling downstairs level. A shipping container bar, green turf, string lights, and a casual vibe make it a nice and unpretentious place to kick back and have a bite.
Lulu’s Wine Garden
1940 11th St NW, Washington, D.C., DC 20001
Boujie on a budget comes to life at Lulu’s Wine Garden. The space is a communal, bottle-driven winegarden, with three lush garden patios, reimagined dinner party fare, and a fun and affordable under-$50 wine list. Come for the wine, stay for the food and welcoming feel with southwest shareable dishes, craft cocktails, and magical plant-filled space.
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