When you’re not knocking on the doors of legislators, meeting with regulators, or attending a League Policy Briefing, we invite you to take some time to explore the nation’s capital and our favorite restaurants. Before visiting, be sure to check the hours these restaurants are open:

Navy Yard (Near Capitol Hill)

Washington, D.C. is organized by a series of neighborhoods, and we are staying in the Navy Yard neighborhood. Nearby restaurants include:

• District Winery: If you’re looking for waterfront views to accompany upscale bites, this is the place for you (385 Water St. SE, Washington, D.C. 20003). We’ll be hosting our reception and dinner here on Monday evening (September 18).
• Bluejacket Brewery: Home to American cuisine and delightful brews, this is a great place for industrial scenery and small bites (300 Tingey St. SE, Washington, D.C. 20003).
• Bonchon: Some of the most delicious Korean fried chicken you’ll ever taste! If you like spicy wings, you’ll find some sauces to challenge your taste buds here (1015 Half St. SE, Washington, D.C. 20003).

Capitol Hill (Where We Hike)

Looking to grab a quick bite between meetings or catch happy hour after a day of hiking The Hill? Here are some popular places to eat — and keep an eye out for members of Congress and senators! Capitol Hill is about a one-mile walk between the House office buildings and Senate office buildings, so there are options for both.

Inside the U.S. House Buildings:

• Rayburn House Office Building (basement level): You can find a cafeteria and a pizza place. This pizza spot is a popular local chain, so prepare for a long line.
• Longworth House Office Building (basement level): This is the “food hub” of the House side were you’ll find lots of options. There is a reasonably priced cafeteria, a grab-and-go snack shop, Dunkin Donuts, and Baskin Robins.

Outside the U.S. House Buildings:

• Talay Thai: It’s the best Thai food near Capitol Hill, with a happy hour lasting for hours on end (406 1^st SE Washington, D.C. 20003).
• Bullfeathers on The Hill: A restaurant frequented by members of Congress and Hill staff, this restaurant’s name is derived from one of President Teddy Roosevelt’s favorite phrases. Grab a burger and a shake — and maybe a drink too (410 First St. SE, Washington, DC 20003).
• Sweetgreen: Want a healthy treat? Sweetgreen is the place to go for delicious salads! Grab-and-go or sit at this casual dining venue for a quick bite (221 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, Washington, DC 20003).

Inside the U.S. Senate Buildings:

• Dirksen Buffet (Dirksen Senate Office Building basement — south side): This is a buffet to love with plenty of food options! Visit the salad bar, eat some sushi, grab a deli sandwich, or order a burger (open 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.).
• Russell Carryout (Russell Senate Office Building basement — northwest corner): Grab-and-go for a quick meal between meetings.

Outside the U.S. Senate Buildings:

• Union Station: A 10-minute walk from the Senate office buildings (according to Google maps), you can find shops and restaurants at Union Station. The cuisine varies from sit-down restaurants to fast food. The options are endless here (50 Massachusetts Ave. NE, Washington, DC 20002).

Other Popular Locations

Many of these restaurants exhibit the unique culture and history of Washington, D.C. Each of them offer a specific type of experience. Read below for more information — and enjoy!

• Old Ebbitt Grill: Located next to the White House, this restaurant is a local institution. Come here to get that “old politics” feel (675 15th St. NW, Washington, DC 20005).
• Hotel Washington (formerly “The W Hotel”): Go up to the top floor and visit the rooftop bar (Vue). While the drinks are pricey, the views are worth it! Please remember seating is limited, but most patrons are standing to gaze at the gorgeous scenery and skyline (515 15th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20004).
• Filomena Ristorante: Located in Georgetown, this is one of the best Italian restaurants in town! You may need to make a reservation for this popular venue with unique decorations (1063 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20007).
• Ted’s Bulletin: Inspired by President Teddy Roosevelt, this place is famous for delicious breakfast served all day long. Find cinnamon rolls as big as your head, homemade pop-tarts, and spiked milkshakes for a memorable dining experience (505 8th St. SE, Washington, D.C. 20003 and 1818 14th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20009).
• Busboys and Poets: A restaurant, a bookstore, and a community gathering place! You can’t miss this all-in-one local favorite (450 K St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20001 and 14th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20009 and 625 Monroe St. NE, Washington, D.C. 20017).