Restaurants

Question

Hey forum friends,

My family of 5 (2 adults, 3 teens) will be in DC March 13-20th. We're looking for some fun food recommendations. We're not super fancy people and mostly stick with American food. We like to always find a few fun quirky places, historical places, dessert places, pizza places, Italian etc. when we travel. We'll mainly be spending time seeing the Smithsonian's and our hotel is near the National Mall. We'll eat breakfast each morning in the hotel.

Baked and Wired or Sprinkles?

Any one been to the Pie Shop? (we love pie)

Ben's Chili Bowl seems fun and touristy

What about Ted's Bulletin, The Tombs, Old Ebbit Grill?

Is Hi-Lawn rooftop open in March?

Anything else you can recommend.

Answer

Hi there,

Washington DC has a great mix of fun, quirky, and classic restaurants that will appeal to families looking for American food and casual dining experiences. Since your hotel is near the National Mall, you’ll have easy access to many options without needing long commutes. Here’s a detailed breakdown of recommendations based on your interests:

For classic DC and iconic spots:

Ben’s Chili Bowl: A must-visit for tourists and locals alike. Famous for chili dogs and half-smokes, it’s casual, fun, and a real DC institution.
Old Ebbitt Grill: Historic and slightly more upscale but still approachable for families. Classic American fare with a historic ambiance, right near the White House.
The Tombs: A lively pub near Georgetown; casual American menu, burgers, fries, and a fun collegiate atmosphere.

For breakfast, brunch, and casual American comfort food:

Ted’s Bulletin: Great for breakfast or brunch, famous for homemade pop tarts, pancakes, and comfort food classics. Perfect for teens and adults alike.
Founding Farmers: Popular farm-to-table American restaurant, large portions, great for families, and fun menu options like mac & cheese or burgers.

For dessert and quirky spots:

Baked and Wired: A beloved Georgetown bakery with unique cupcakes and pastries. More artisanal and quirky than Sprinkles.
Sprinkles Cupcakes: Fun and photogenic, but a chain; good for a quick treat if you’re passing by.
The Pie Shop (District Pie or local favorites): Many locals love District Pie in Shaw for seasonal pies; great for your family if you love sweet pies and want something different.
Georgetown Cupcake: Another fun, touristy cupcake spot if you’re in the area.

Other fun or casual experiences:

Hi-Lawn Rooftop: Typically seasonal; March can be chilly so check if they have heaters or indoor options. Rooftop availability may be limited early in the spring.
Shake Shack: Iconic casual burger spot with multiple locations in DC, including near the Mall.
District Taco: Quick, casual Mexican-inspired meals; easy for families on the go.
Food Halls: Union Market and The Wharf have a mix of casual, quirky, and international food vendors, which are fun for teens and adults to explore together.

Overall, mixing iconic DC spots like Ben’s Chili Bowl and Old Ebbitt Grill with quirky bakeries and casual American favorites will give your family a fun, varied dining experience. For March, it’s best to check rooftop availability and consider indoor alternatives for chilly evenings.

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