As a part-time Parisian, I know a little something about choosing French restaurants. In my opinion, the best ones combine authentic fare, exceptional service, and plenty of ambiance. Although there are plenty of Gallic themed restaurants to choose from in the DC area, the standouts to me are L’Avant-Garde, Le Diplomat, and Pastis. Each of them offers a unique, thoughtful take on traditional French hospitality that I love. Here is a little overview so that you know what to expect when you book a table.
A guide to my favorite French restaurants in DC
My job as a fashion stylist is to help clients figure out what to wear for specific life events. I recommend restaurants the same way, i.e., the perfect fit depends on the occasion. Here is when to go and what to wear to the best French restaurants in DC.
Best for an upscale dining experience
L’Avante-Garde recently reopened in Georgetown with a new Chef and co-owner. Sébastien Giannini is a seasoned professional with a deep love of his French culinary heritage and the skills to match. The menu is refined without being intimidating, as is the service. The setting is intimate and the decor quietly sultry. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic date or a meal among friends or colleagues.
Styling tip: Dress to impress. LBD and heels for the ladies (or some elevated equivalent), suits or smart blazers with trousers or jeans for men.
Best for a casual, family-friendly environment
Le Diplomate, or “Le Dip” as it’s commonly referred to, is a local favorite for good reason. The décor is something right out of a French movie, and the high energy of the staff and the clientele are instant mood lifters. The menus feature items like a warm shrimp salad and burger that are favorites of D.C.’s lunch and dinner crowds. Although it is a popular date night spot, there is a laid-back, neighborhood-y feel that lends itself to casual family outings. The weekend brunch crowd in particular is a steady flow of toddlers and their somewhat harried parents.
Styling tip: Keep it simple. A polished casual look – think jeans, knits, fun outerwear and sensible (but stylish) footwear.
Best for the fashionable crowd
Pastis is Le Dip’s sister restaurant and since its recent opening is already one of the buzziest tables in town. Its brunch and dinner menus feature elevated French comfort food and list of fine wines catering to a grown up, foodie crowd. The large bar that wraps around the front of the restaurant is a lot like the one in the original Pastis, which was the hottest spot in NYC in the 90s (I should know – Carrie Bradshaw and I were regulars). It is sure to become a go to for those who, like Carrie and me, like to see, be seen, and a scene.
Styling tip: Anything goes. If you want to flex your styling muscles, this is the place to do it. Wear the fur! Add the sequins! Be sassy, but as always, keep it classy.
I hope you find this guide to dining and dressing for a date at of the best French restaurants in DC helpful. Let me know what you think of my picks, and as always, feel free to reach out to me for any of your styling needs.