Best Restaurants with a Notable Wine List in Adams Morgan

This is my second trip to The Dabney and it was as excellent as my first trip. The tasting menu has gone from 8 to 5 courses but there is no lack of fantastic food here. Terrific combinations of seafood and unexpected flavors along with the smoky tastes from the open wood fire are a special experience. The space is so warm and cozy, it redefines what a Michelin Star dining experience should be. The meats are spectacular as well. So many great dishes. Highly recommend the Grilled Sloop Point Oysters, The Tuna Pork Rinds, Scallop crudo, Fried Sugar Toads (it ain’t what you think and it’s better than you can imagine), the Chesapeake Rockfish, Fried Porgy (a real highlight) and the Lamb were all perfectly done and presented beautifully. The staff is attentive and friendly but never rushed. The cocktails are outstanding as well. The Old Fashioned is one of the best I’ve had. Prices are not for the faint of heart but you get top notch value for the money. I’ll be back here next trip down to DC. I wish this place was in NYC.

I don’t write many reviews, but every now and then, a place completely earns it and Balos Estiatorio in DC absolutely did. From the moment we walked in, the vibe was just right. The hostess team was not only strikingly elegant but genuinely warm and welcoming setting the tone for what would become one of my top five first-time dining experiences, right up there with Le Bernardin in NYC and Lewis Barbecue in Charleston. (Anyone who has been to both will know what i mean) Our waiter, Nico, was a gem. Friendly without being pushy, knowledgeable without pretension, and clearly passionate about the food and the Greek culinary tradition. It felt like we were in expert hands from the start. Now for the food: this was not your average Greek fare, it was elevated, thoughtful, and full of soul. Im just gonna say Pita.....and wow! I’ve had babaganoush before, but this was the first time I genuinely loved it, it was smoky, silky, and addictive. The filo pastry was perfection, light and buttery with just the right crunch. Then came the stuffed peppers (a recommendation by Nico...because his mom used to make them when he was a kid, theyre great! Best selling point for a dish ive ever heard, had to order them.) They were, I mean beautifully done, I had to pause mid-bite just to take it in. And the filet? Impeccable. Seasoned with care, seared with precision, and melt-in-your-mouth tender. By the end, we couldn’t fit dessert if we tried, but the coffees (Americanos) were rich, bold, and the perfect close to an unforgettable meal. Tbh it feels like they're doing all the right things to be a Michelen star restaurant but they genuinely seem to care about your experience rather than any awards that come from it. Balos is a must-visit if you’re in DC and take your food seriously. I’ll be back, probably sooner than I should. Bravo to the whole team.

Friday high tea was perfection. Service was 10/10.  The chef not only accommodated at the last minute gluten-free request but made my daughter’s celebration for finishing the 1st grade so special.

Best experience ever! Brought along 5 friends who had never been to a similar fine dining restaurant and they were all floored! A little apprehensive at the price at first but by the end they were amazed at the value of experience and different flavors. Everything of the best quality! I wouldn't be surprised if they get a third star soon!

Another great culinary experience, with great service.