DCGuide
11 Great Restaurants For New Year’s Eve
photo credit: Rey Lopez
Whether you're a die-hard New Year's Eve enthusiast or a firm hater, the end of the year is cause for celebration. And although the pressure to reflect and hope for a better tomorrow is higher than those new metro fare shields, we’re here to help you through it. Here are some of our favorite restaurants where you can enjoy five-course meals and complimentary champagne before the calendar resets, and you get ready to take on another year.
THE SPOTS
Fuel up for the night’s festivities (or the drive home back to bed, we’re not judging) with an exceptional dinner in 1789. We’re big fans of the food at the classic Georgetown spot, but on New Year's Eve you can expect a special 4-course menu featuring lobster arancini and braised wagyu short rib. Service runs from 6-10pm and reservations are required.
Dance the night away with the Rebirth Brass Band and a midnight toast at The Hamilton. For $40, the downtown restaurant is a great option for big groups since there’s plenty of seating, and a truly gargantuan menu that covers everything from pasta (skip) to sushi (try).
Always-busy Jaleo is rolling out endless tapas starting at 8:30pm, and is perfect spot for your out-of-town friends. The $130 unlimited menu includes a selection of the Penn Quarter Spanish restaurant’s most classic dishes including chicken croquettes, patatas bravas, and a selection of iberíco.
Zaytinya is a great choice for those looking for a more upscale evening out. The downtown Mediterranean restaurant is offering a $95 five-course, featuring winter squash hummus, sea scallops, and grilled lamb chops. Cap off the night with a midnight wine toast, and a bottle to-go included in your package as a party favor.
The modern Mexican restaurant offers a $159 five-course dinner and an optional $95 beverage pairing. Dishes have previously included duck confit and grilled wagyu guacamole. And starting at 9pm, there will be music and drinks with a complimentary midnight toast downstairs at their Roja Lounge.
Cozy up at Ilili for a romantic escape with you and love surrounded by green vines, hand-painted Mediterranean tiles, and an indoor water fountain. For $215, enjoy a five-course dinner at this Mediterranean restaurant at the Wharf, showcasing batata hara amuse-bouche and curried lobster. Following dinner, the dining room transforms into a dance floor with a live DJ and belly-dancing performances.
Mi Vida, like a few Knead Hospitality + Design restaurants, is open on New Year’s Eve serving a special holiday menu. The Mexican restaurant is a great option for groups looking to hit up the bars at The Wharf after. Last year's menu included lobster, slow-braised short rib taco, and a vanilla flan-chocolate cake for dessert.
Feast on a 14-course dinner at The Bazaar. Sit on the second floor for starry views under the glass atrium at the Waldorf Hotel and get ready for an enchanting night with your friends drinking cocktails made in dry ice. There's also an a la carte menu if you're not in the mood for quite so much Spanish food.
The Levantine restaurant in Navy Yard has a special $275 sofra menu that will likely include our favorite pita in the city. In past years, there were also barbecue wings, cinnamon kefta, and labne soft serve. It's a great spot for a New Year's Eve date night, but make a reservation a.s.a.p.
Looking for low-key night with your significant other that wraps up by 11pm? Lutèce is your answer. The quaint Georgetown bistro has a special menu featuring grilled Maine lobster and dry-aged wagyu complemented by black truffles, caviar, and champagne. Guests can select from a four-course, six-course, or chef’s table option.
Kick off 2024 on the right note at the American brasserie with a stress-free three-course prix-fixe dinner, ideal when planning isn't your strong suit. In the past, the lineup has included spicy salmon tartare and braised short rib. Plus, enjoy party favors and a complimentary glass of champagne.
