When you’d rather not cook or deal with crowded host homes, heading out to a restaurant for Christmas dinner can be a welcome treat. These DC-area restaurants offer classic holiday menus, cozy atmospheres and family-friendly options making them great picks for a festive evening out. The recommendations in this list were compiled using Washingtonian holiday guides, OpenTable Christmas listings and restaurant announcements for 2025, highlighting restaurants known for their warmth, tradition and holiday spirit.
Editor’s tip: Always confirm holiday hours and menu availability before visiting, as schedules may change for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Founding Farmers & Distillers
Founding Farmers offers a Christmas Day prix fixe menu featuring seasonal classics like spiral baked ham, prime rib, lamb, crab cakes and holiday desserts. Its reputation for approachable fine dining and scratch kitchens makes it a reliable, festive choice for families who want something special without the formal edge.
- Address: 600 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Washington, DC
- Hours: 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 7 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday; Sunday 7 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday
- Phone: (202) 464-3001
The Lafayette at The Hay-Adams
The Lafayette, located in The Hay-Adams hotel, is known to host a luxury holiday dinner on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day with a full spread of festive specialties from porcini mushroom bisque to Hudson Valley duck breast. Its elegant dining room and service elevate a holiday meal into a full experience.
- Address: 800 16th St. NW, Washington, DC
- Hours: 6:30-11 a.m., 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., 5:30-9 p.m. Monday-Friday; 7-11 a.m., 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., 5:30–9 p.m. Saturday; 7-11 a.m., 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday
Phone: (202) 638-2570
Le Diplomate
Logan Circle’s French brasserie Le Diplomate dresses the season in holiday décor and offers a la carte menus and holiday specials on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The festive ambiance, classic French cuisine and specialty holiday dishes (like beef tenderloin with foie gras or truffle jus) make it a top pick for those seeking a refined, traditional dinner.
- Address: 1601 14th St. NW, Washington, DC
- Hours: 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 11:30 a.m.-midnight Friday; 9:30 a.m.-midnight Saturday; 9:30 a.m.-11 p.m. Sunday
- Phone: (202) 332-3333
Old Ebbitt Grill
A longstanding DC institution, Old Ebbitt Grill combines a festive atmosphere with classic American comfort food — think roasted meats, hearty sides and traditional holiday entrees. While not every year is guaranteed service, it’s often open or offers holiday specials and to-go options during Christmas.
- Address: 675 15th St NW, Washington, DC
- Hours: 8 a.m.-2 a.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-1 a.m. Saturday-Sunday
- Phone: (202) 347-4800
Martin’s Tavern
In Georgetown, Martin’s Tavern becomes a cozy holiday favorite with festive décor, comforting traditional dishes and a historic setting. Locals mention how beautifully decorated and welcoming it feels during the Christmas season. It’s especially good for smaller family dinners where ambience matters as much as the menu.
- Address: 1264 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Washington, DC
- Hours: 11 a.m.-12 a.m. Monday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-2:30 a.m. Friday; 9 a.m.-2:30 a.m. Saturday; 9 a.m.-1:30 a.m. Sunday
- Phone: (202) 333-7370
