Best Contemporary French American Restaurants in Shaw

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Regions

District of ColumbiaMaryland - DC SuburbsVirginia - DC Suburbs

Areas

ArlingtonBethesdaDowntownDupont CircleGeorgetownLogan Circle

Top Rated

CharmingFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for brunch

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeaway only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

MICHELIN

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

17 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of Amélie DC Bistro & Wine Bar restaurant

1. Amélie DC Bistro & Wine Bar

4.6

Exceptional(89)

$$$$

• Contemporary french american • Logan Circle

Booked 24 times today

Amélie brings the heart of Paris to Logan Circle. This contemporary French restaurant and wine bar features over 75 curated wines alongside modernized French classics by Chef Anthony Lemortellec. Dig into irresistible moules-frites, escargot, steak tartare, and generous cheese and charcuterie boards. Settle into a sunlit space for lively happy hours and weekend brunches, or catch the dinner vibe for intimate date nights and spirited group dinners. Rapidly becoming one of D.C.’s best wine bars and most coveted French restaurants, Amélie offers casual elegance and unforgettable flavor and atmosphere.

A photo of Central Michel Richard restaurant

2. Central Michel Richard

4.7

Exceptional(7515)

$$$$

• Contemporary french american • Penn Quarter

Booked 43 times today

Central Michel Richard in Penn Quarter, Washington, is a gem for Contemporary French / American cuisine, seamlessly blending French elegance with American flair. Celebrated as a "long-time favorite" by patrons, its menu features standout dishes like the award-winning fried chicken and delectable desserts. The restaurant's vibrant ambiance and impeccable service enhance the dining experience, making it a "wonderful spot for larger groups or an intimate dinner for two." With its prime location near iconic landmarks, Central Michel Richard is not just a meal, but a destination. “The food is amazing,” rave diners, affirming its status as a culinary treasure in D.C.

A photo of Bonne Vie Cafe & Bistro restaurant

3. Bonne Vie Cafe & Bistro

4.2

Awesome(84)

$$$$

• Contemporary french american • Dupont Circle

Booked 11 times today

Housed in a historic flatiron at the crossroads of Dupont Circle, Adams Morgan, and the U Street Corridor, Bonne Vie Café & Bistro blends Parisian café culture with D.C.’s neighborhood rhythm. From coffee at sunrise to steak frites after dark, it’s a place to gather, linger, and live the bonne vie—the good life.Mornings, Made Easy. Fresh baguettes, flaky pastries, and espresso at the coffee bar. Settle in with high-speed Wi-Fi to read, meet, or get a little work done.Evenings, Authentically Bistro. Classic French comfort including steak frites, duck confit, mussels in white wine—paired with French wines, a curated cocktail list (including a martini menu), and the kind of hospitality that invites you to eat well, sip slow, and savor the moment.Jazz Night is hosted exclusively in our second-floor lounge and features a limited menu. The prix-fixe menu is not available during Jazz Night. To be guaranteed seating upstairs, reservations must be made under the Jazz Night experience.

4. Brasserie Liberté

4.3

Awesome(2658)

$$$$

• Contemporary french american • Georgetown

Booked 24 times today

At Brasserie Liberté traditional French meets modern luxury in the heart of Georgetown. Our menu reflects the comfort food of the cuisine served in a cozy and laidback setting.Please note the Fabergé Egg seats 4 guests.

Icon

5. Bresca

4.5

Awesome(1283)

$$$$

• Contemporary french american • U Street Corridor

Booked 33 times today

Bresca, located in the lively U Street Corridor of Washington, is a beacon of authentic French cuisine, skillfully blending traditional techniques with contemporary flair. Diners rave about the exquisite "balance of flavors" in each dish, with the tasting menu being a particular highlight that "simply does not miss." The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in its use of the finest seasonal ingredients, creating dishes that are both innovative and deeply rooted in French culinary tradition. Guests are treated to a dining experience that is "easily one of the best meals" they've ever had, complemented by impeccable service and a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. This makes Bresca a must-visit for those seeking a true taste of France in the heart of Washington.

6. Cafe Riggs

4.7

Exceptional(205)

$$$$

• Contemporary french american • Penn Quarter

Booked 18 times today

In the grand tradition of French cuisine, Café Riggs presents a contemporary American brasserie that reimagines classic dishes within a vibrant setting.

7. Le DeSales

4.7

Exceptional(960)

$$$$

• Contemporary french american • Downtown

Booked 23 times today

Le DeSales, located in the heart of Downtown Washington, offers an exquisite blend of Contemporary French and American cuisine that captivates the palate. Michelin-starred Chef Raphael François crafts dishes that are both "phenomenal and inventive," delivering a dining experience that many have described as "outstanding" and "exquisite." The restaurant's cozy, romantic ambiance perfectly complements its diverse menu, which includes delights like beef tartare, ribeye, and a unique sushi selection. Patrons rave about the "exceptional service" and the meticulously curated wine list. Whether for a casual meal or a special celebration, Le DeSales promises a memorable culinary journey that "never disappoints."

A photo of Opaline Bar and Brasserie restaurant

8. Opaline Bar and Brasserie

4.2

Awesome(345)

$$$$

• Contemporary french american • Downtown

Booked 11 times today

Opaline Bar and Brasserie in Downtown Washington DC offers a sublime Afternoon Tea experience that is both authentic and enchanting. Guests have raved about the "Petit Prince-themed tea," describing it as "fun and delicious" with an impeccable service that is "perfectly paced, neither rushed nor forgotten." The curated selection of pastries and mini-sandwiches is praised for its delightful taste, with patrons noting that "nothing else compares" to Opaline's offerings. The ambiance is described as "refined yet not stuffy," providing a serene escape from city life. With attentive staff catering to dietary needs, Opaline ensures a memorable and inclusive afternoon for all.

A photo of Cork Wine Bar & Market restaurant

9. Cork Wine Bar & Market

4.0

Excellent(547)

$$$$

• Contemporary french american • Logan Circle

Cork Wine Bar & Market, nestled in the heart of Logan Circle, Washington, offers a delightful fusion of Contemporary French and American cuisine that leaves diners raving. Described as "a neighborhood gem," Cork delivers a culinary experience that's both refined and accessible. The menu boasts creative and fresh dishes like quiche, burrata, and eggs Benedict, perfectly paired with their exquisite selection of Old World wines. Guests love the "fantastic dining experience" and "wonderful service," making Cork feel like "a family restaurant and bar in your neighborhood." Whether dining in the cozy upstairs or the expanded garden patio, Cork promises an unforgettable culinary journey.

A photo of a.kitchen+bar D.C. restaurant

10. a.kitchen+bar D.C.

4.7

Exceptional(186)

$$$$

• Contemporary french american • West End

Booked 9 times today

a.kitchen+bar D.C. offers an extraordinary French dining experience in the heart of Washington DC's West End. With an innovative menu that captures the essence of French cuisine through "fresh, flavorful, beautiful presentation," this restaurant stands out for its inventive yet authentic approach. Guests are consistently impressed by the "impeccable" service and expertly curated wine list, which features natural varieties that perfectly complement the delectable dishes. The restaurant's ambiance exudes warmth and elegance, making it an ideal spot for both casual dinners and special occasions. Diners rave about the "delicious, complex flavors," ensuring that a.kitchen+bar D.C. provides an authentic taste of France in every bite.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

B
BrandonGold
Washington, D.C. Area •37 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
This was such a fantastic meal with exceptional service. The food was so well prepared and the service was attentive without being suffocating. I really appreciated the insights of the sommelier. Will definitely be back again!
More info
Bresca$$$$• Contemporary French / American• U Street Corridor
•
4.5
A
AlexandraGold
Washington, D.C. Area •36 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
It was a fantastic experience, great service, food and atmosphere
More info
Amélie DC Bistro & Wine Bar$$$$• French• Logan Circle
•
4.6
J
JonGold
Washington, D.C. Area •14 reviews
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
Brasserie Liberte is a really nice all around experience with an great bistro feel, a great menu, and good food especially for it's price range. Highly recommended as a less fussy, comfortable (French) alternative to Cafe Milano next door.
More info
Brasserie Liberté$$$$• Contemporary French / American• Georgetown
•
4.3
L
LymariGold
Orlando / Central Florida East •6 reviews
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
Central Michel Richard is an absolute gem! The skirt steak was incredibly delicious — perfectly cooked and full of flavor. But the real showstopper was the coconut sorbet. Hands down the best I've ever tasted. Light, creamy, and refreshing — it was the perfect ending to a wonderful meal. Highly recommend!
More info
Central Michel Richard$$$$• American• Penn Quarter
•
4.7
D
Donna
Washington, D.C. Area •6 reviews
5.0
Dined on 31 May 2026
This was our first time at Bonne Vie - it was a very nice experience....the music (Sharon Clark) was exceptional, the atmosphere and setting are very well done, the service was great, and the food was very good.
More info
Bonne Vie Cafe & Bistro$$$$• Contemporary French / American• Dupont Circle
•
4.2

Explore OpenTable

Area
Contemporary french american Cuisine

Shaw

Springfield
Bowie State University
Mount Jackson
Leonardtown
Alexandria
Rosslyn
Leesburg
Adams Morgan
Clarksburg
Falls Church
Navy Yard
North Bethesda
Logan Circle
Laurel
Lansdowne
Cleveland Park
Fairfax
Gaithersburg
Silver Spring
West End