Cozy Restaurants in DC to Dine by a Fire

When all you want is a cozy escape from the cold winter weather, the perfect dining spot is in order. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner spot, a charming hideaway, or just a place to unwind with a warm meal, these restaurants offer the perfect ambiance—with crackling fireplaces to set the mood.

1. The Dabney

📍 122 Blagden Alley NW, Washington, DC 20001
This Michelin-starred gem in Blagden Alley is famous for its open hearth, where chefs prepare Mid-Atlantic-inspired dishes over a roaring fire. The warm, rustic setting, paired with farm-to-table flavors, makes The Dabney the perfect retreat from the cold.

2. Iron Gate

📍 1734 N St NW, Washington, DC 20036
Tucked away in Dupont Circle, Iron Gate offers an intimate atmosphere with a wood-burning fireplace inside and a vine-covered courtyard outside. Whether you cozy up indoors or enjoy the twinkling lights outside, their Mediterranean-inspired menu and extensive wine selection make for a memorable dining experience.

3. 1789 Restaurant

📍 1226 36th St NW, Washington, DC 20007
Step into historic Georgetown’s 1789 Restaurant for a classic, elegant dining experience. The old-world charm, plush seating, and roaring fireplaces create an inviting ambiance that pairs perfectly with their refined American cuisine.

4. Blue Duck Tavern

📍 1201 24th St NW, Washington, DC 20037
Located inside the Park Hyatt, Blue Duck Tavern features an open kitchen with a wood-burning oven that fills the space with a comforting warmth. Their seasonal American dishes, like slow-braised short ribs and wood-fired seafood, make this an ideal spot to relax and indulge.

5. Old Ebbitt Grill

📍 675 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20005
A D.C. institution, Old Ebbitt Grill is known for its cozy, historic setting, complete with classic decor and fireplaces in the dining rooms. Whether you're savoring oysters at the bar or enjoying a hearty meal, this landmark restaurant is a great place to escape winters chill.

6. Tabard Inn

📍 1739 N St NW, Washington, DC 20036
One of D.C.’s most charming boutique hotels, the Tabard Inn boasts a cozy restaurant with an inviting fireplace that makes you feel right at home. Their comforting dishes and relaxed atmosphere make it a perfect retreat from the bustling city.

With a few more weeks of cold to go, we hope these bring you all the feels on a night out this winter. 

Prepare your trip using our DC–NYC travel guide. For more local experiences, explore Free Things to Do in Washington, DC, and winter getaway ideas at Plan Your Winter Escape to Bethesda.