Washington, DC. is home to a vibrant and diverse dining scene where plant-based dishes are having a moment. Get everything from MICHELIN-Starred tasting menus to traditional Lebanese food at these top vegetarian-friendly restaurants in DC.
Celebrate a special occasion with a six-course vegan meal in an elegant row house Downtown; savor classic Greek dishes at a family-owned restaurant in Arlington; or explore Afghan cuisine surrounded by a cozy ambiance in McLean.
From elegant fine dining experiences to local neighborhood gems, these restaurants redefine vegetarian and vegan-friendly dining.
Book your spot at these top vegetarian restaurants in Washington, DC on OpenTable today.
Read on to discover the 10 best vegetarian restaurants in DC.
For innovative plant-based fine dining in an elegant setting — try Elizabeth’s (Downtown)
Located inside a historic row house, Elizabeth’s is a DC special occasion favorite. Chef Francisco Hernandez whips up elegant vegan tasting menus that spotlight seasonal ingredients and could include creative dishes like okinawa purple potato topped with loroco flowers and aleppo spiced caviar with optional wine and non-alcoholic drink pairings. For a more casual meal, sit at the intimate bar in the cozy, peach-hued dining room for creative à la carte snacks, like a vegan “caviar.”
For inventive dishes at one of the best vegan restaurants in DC — try PLANTA (Logan Circle, Dupont Circle, or Bethesda)
With locations in Logan Circle, Dupont Circle, and Bethesda, PLANTA is a destination for its playful, all-vegan menu. Expect a large selection of globally-inspired dishes ranging from truffle udon noodles and bang bang broccoli to plant-based “sushi,” nachos, pizzas, and more. The stylish ambiance and lively energy make it perfect for a working lunch or happy hour.
For farm-to-table fine dining and one of the city’s best plant-based brunches — try Equinox (Downtown)
Equinox is where you go for vegetable-forward fine dining. The restaurant is known for its seasonal, farm-to-table contemporary American cuisine, including a stellar family-style, plant-based brunch every Sunday starring dishes that could include three bean cassoulet and Granny Smith apple-stuffed French toast. With sleek, modern decor, ambient lighting, and an intimate atmosphere, Equinox provides the backdrop for a memorable night out.
For traditional Afghan cuisine with a vegetarian-friendly menu — try Bistro Aracosia (Palisades Northwest)
Named one of the top 100 restaurants in the city by The Washingtonian, Bistro Aracosia is a destination for traditional Afghan food, including several vegetarian options. Expect dishes like baadenjaan (spicy eggplant stew), a vegetable platter, and risotto with eggplant and butternut squash, all in a cozy space with Afghan textiles and design elements.
For the flavors of Afghan cuisine in a cozy neighborhood spot — try Aracosia McLean (McLean)
Aracosia McLean, a sibling restaurant to Bistro Aracosia, serves traditional Middle Eastern dishes that have earned recognition from The Washington Post and others. Chef Sofia Masroor crafts each dish with care, ensuring it is free from artificial ingredients, MSG, and preservatives. The vegetarian-friendly menu stars fragrant stews, dumplings, and hearty vegetable platters. With a cozy dining room in a charming neighborhood setting, Aracosia McLean is a great choice for a family dinner out.
For a MICHELIN-Starred Latin American vegetarian tasting experience — try Mita (Washington)
Mita is a MICHELIN-Starred, vegetarian restaurant starring Latin America flavors and ingredients. Led by chefs Miguel Guerra and Tatiana Mora, Mita celebrates the versatility of vegetables with an innovative menu of plant-based dishes that could include a heart of palm causa and raviolo with corn, sunchokes, and sofrito. Don’t miss the stellar cocktails that showcase Latin American spirits.
For the flavors of Lebanon with a vegetarian-friendly menu — try Lebanese Taverna (Woodley Park, Pentagon Row, and Westover)
Lebanese Taverna is a beloved local institution that has served Lebanese and Middle Eastern family recipes in the DC area for more than 40 years. All three locations in Woodley Park, Pentagon Row, and Westover provide a warm, welcoming atmosphere for digging into signature dishes like creamy hummus and fresh falafel. With vibrant interiors and a lively, family-friendly vibe, Lebanese Taverna is great for a casual dinner with friends or a festive family gathering.
For a health-focused dining experience with a vegetarian-friendly menu — try True Food Kitchen (Arlington and Bethesda)
True Food Kitchen goes all in on approachable, American dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. The restaurant is inspired by Dr. Andrew Weil’s anti-inflammatory food pyramid and standout dishes include the nourishing ancient grain bowl and the flavorful edamame dumplings. With its modern, airy interiors and vibrant, inviting atmosphere, True Food Kitchen is ideal for a casual yet wholesome meal with friends or a lively brunch date.
For vegetarian-friendly Greek dishes at a family-owned restaurant — try Our Mom Eugenia (Arlington)
Our Mom Eugenia in Arlington serves classic Greek cuisine, focusing on fresh, vegetarian dishes. Settle into one of the cozy booths lined with greenery and pillows to dig into a feast of vegetable-forward dishes like flavorful tzatziki, crispy falafel, and comforting moussaka made with eggplant. The setting is ideal for a romantic evening or casual dinner with friends.
For a celebration of Caribbean street food with a vegetarian-friendly menu — try Trini Vybez (Washington)
Trini Vybez brings the vibrant flavors of Trinidad and Tobago to the DC area with its Caribbean-inspired menu. Known for its bold, spice-driven dishes, vegetarian highlights include the zesty jerk tofu served over rice or the flaky roti filled with seasoned potatoes and chickpeas. The bright, colorful interiors and energetic vibe make it a great spot for a fun, casual meal with friends, or a lively dinner date.
Whether you’re craving an innovative plant-based tasting menu, vibrant Mediterranean flavors, or Caribbean-inspired dishes, Washington, DC has many exciting vegetarian-friendly dining options. These top restaurants serve flavorful meals and provide inviting atmospheres for any occasion, from intimate dinners to lively group gatherings.
