Ethiopian cuisine is a staple in Washington, DC thanks to its large Ethiopian community. It generally consists of a spongy bread (injera) with a spicy stewed mix of meat and vegetables. Salvadoran pupusa (corn tortillas stuffed with cheese, fried pork or refried beans) has become a common word in the city and all visitors leave knowing it. As the capital city of the nation it is easy to get hold of American wines and microbrews, though international wines and beers can also be seen everywhere.

One of the best places to dine in DC is Komi (1509 17th St NW, Dupont Circle), which has been rated as one of the best restaurants in the country and serves signature dishes such as chopped diver scallop with caramelized coconut and suckling goat with pita. Old Ebbitt Grill (675 15th St NW, West End) is one of the most famous restaurants in the city and has served steak to former presidents Cleveland, Harding, Grant and Roosevelt.

Etete (1942 9th St NW, Shaw) is the best Ethiopian restaurant in DC and is the one all others are compared to, while the best pupusas can be had at Don Juan Restaurant (1660 Lamont St NW, Adams Morgan). The upscale Mexican eatery Oyamel (401 7th St NW, East End) has a real Aztec feel serving classic dishes such as tacos and ceviches with an upscale twist.

Further out of the tourist area is the acclaimed Palena (3529 Connecticut Ave NW, Upper Northwest) that is owned by the former chef of the White House, Frank Ruta. Dishes here are influenced by traditional French and Italian cuisine with the chef’s own spin. BlackSalt (4883 MacArthur Blvd NW, Upper Northwest) is another famous restaurant in the same area, which is noted for its inventive seafood dishes such as Arctic char with green mole and wood roasted swordfish with pine nut-anchovy butter.