Restaurant recommendations near Grand Hyatt

Question

I am attending a conference next month at the Grand Hyatt. I am arriving a day before, and some of the meals will be on our own. Can you recommend restaurants in the area? Anything from diners to fine dining. My traveling companion and I are adventurous eaters and like everything! Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience.

Answer

The Grand Hyatt Washington is centrally located in downtown D.C., near Metro Center and the bustling Penn Quarter, which makes it very convenient for exploring a wide variety of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining. Since you and your companion are adventurous eaters, the area offers an excellent mix of international cuisines, trendy spots, and classic D.C. favorites.

For casual dining and quick bites, consider:

Old Ebbitt Grill – A historic D.C. landmark offering American fare with seafood specialties and a lively atmosphere. Great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Shake Shack – For a casual burger and fries experience, located nearby in downtown.
We, The Pizza – Known for creative pizzas and salads, perfect for a casual, quick meal.
Teaism – A cozy spot for Asian-inspired small plates, teas, and healthy options, good for a lighter meal or brunch.
Union Market (short ride away) – A modern food hall with a variety of vendors serving international cuisines, from Mediterranean to Korean BBQ.

For mid-range, adventurous dining experiences:

Zaytinya – Offers innovative Mediterranean small plates inspired by Greek, Turkish, and Lebanese cuisines. Excellent for trying multiple flavors in one meal.
Jaleo – A lively Spanish tapas restaurant by José Andrés, ideal for adventurous eaters who enjoy authentic small plates and creative presentations.
RPM Italian – Modern Italian dishes with high-quality ingredients, pasta, and seafood. Casual yet polished ambiance.
Oyamel – Mexican cuisine with creative twists on traditional dishes, from tacos to ceviches.

If you are interested in fine dining or special culinary experiences:

Fiola – Upscale Italian cuisine with elegant plating and seasonal ingredients.
Minibar by José Andrés – A highly avant-garde, tasting-menu experience with molecular gastronomy. Reservations are essential and can be pricey, but it’s a bucket-list option for adventurous diners.
Masseria – Modern Italian fine dining with a focus on Southern Italian flavors and house-made pastas.
Blue Duck Tavern – Contemporary American cuisine with wood-fired dishes and an upscale, yet approachable ambiance.

Additional tips:

Many restaurants in downtown D.C. are walkable from the Grand Hyatt, so you can explore the area without relying on transportation.
For a casual evening or trying multiple cuisines, consider food halls like Union Market or CityCenter DC, which allow sampling different flavors in one location.
Reservations are recommended for mid-range and fine dining, especially on weekends or during conference season.

Overall, staying near the Grand Hyatt gives you excellent access to a spectrum of dining options, from casual and eclectic to high-end culinary experiences. With your adventurous palate, you can easily plan an evening of exploration around downtown D.C.