The Tripper Guide to the Best New Restaurants to Try in the DC Metro Area

A new year brings new resolutions, and new adventures. And for food adventurers looking to taste something fresh and buzz-worthy, these picks include celebrated newcomers from 2025–2026, notable award winners, and must-visit new and coming concepts locals are raving about, all designed to excite your palate.

The Tripper Guide to the Best New Restaurants to Try in the DC Metro Area

1. Tapori — Indian & Nepalese Street Food

📍 600 H Street NE, Suite E, Washington, DC 20002
📸 Instagram: @tapori.dc IG

Inspired by vibrant South Asian street food culture, Tapori serves bold, shareable dishes from India and Nepal — from dosas and biryanis to creative tropical cocktails. It was recently named Best New Restaurant in the 2025 Eater DC Awards, making it one of the hottest openings to explore. 

Why go: Flavor-packed street eats + lively H Street atmosphere.

2. Dōgon — Afro-Caribbean Fine Dining

📍 1330 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20024
📸 Instagram: @dogondc IG

Helmed by award-winning chef Kwame Onwuachi, Dōgon delivers a refined Afro-Caribbean menu that celebrates Jamaican, Nigerian, Trinidadian, and Creole influences. It topped Yelp’s Best New Restaurants of 2025 list and continues making waves in 2026. We sum this one up in two words, "Explosive Flavor"! 

Why go: Innovative global flavors + chef-driven culinary storytelling.

3. Wonder Food Hall — Multi-Concept Dining

📍 1925 14th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
 

A new type of food hall meets ghost kitchen, Wonder brings 25+ restaurant concepts under one roof — from celebrity chef pop-ups to global street eats. Sample dishes from multiple kitchens in one visit. There's something for everyone! 

Why go: Ultimate choice variety + casual shared dining.

4. Altitude — Wine Bar & Listening Lounge

📍 National Landing (Arlington, VA)

Part wine bar and part musical social venue, Altitude is designed as an all-day concept near Amazon’s HQ2 featuring guided wine tastings and live events. Opening soon, so be sure to be on the look-out! 

Why go: Chill yet elevated vibe with drinks and small plates.

5. Constellation — Cafe + Market Spot

📍 National Landing (Arlington, VA)

Complementing Altitude, Constellation blends cafe fare with market retail and ready-to-go meals — ideal for brunch dates or casual catch-ups. Be sure to keep this one on your list and visit when it opens in early 2026! 

Why go: Relaxed atmosphere + quality coffee + ready bites.

6. Ox & Olive — New Steakhouse in Georgetown (Coming 2026)

📍 Georgetown, DC

From chef Ryan Ratino (Michelin-star pedigree) comes a fresh take on the American steakhouse with approachable pricing and a stylish contemporary interior. Eater DC

Why go: Classic steakhouse with modern flair.

7. Shibuya Eatery — Japanese Comfort in Maryland

📍 4461 Willard Avenue, Chevy Chase, MD 20815

An exciting Maryland extension of a beloved DC concept, Shibuya re-imagines Japanese favorites — ramen, donburi, and curry katsu — in a cozy yet dynamic setting. The MoCo Show

Why go: Comfort food with chef-driven quality.

Bonus Worthy Mentions (Still Fresh & Trending)

While not brand-new in 2025, these spots continue earning buzz in 2026 and are worth your culinary bucket list:

• Elmina – African seafood & coastal flavors inside Shaw’s vibrant dining scene.

• Unconventional Diner – Highly acclaimed brunch and diner classics.

• Moon Rabbit – Vietnamese inspired contemporary menu.

• Kaché – Hidden-gem speakeasy vibe with refined fare.

Tips for Dining in 2026

Make reservations early: Many new spots fill up fast, especially weekend dinners.
Follow on social: Restaurants regularly post pop-ups, seasonal menus, and events on Instagram.
Explore beyond DC: Don’t miss great newcomers in VA and MD, from food halls to chef-led independents, keep a list of new concepts emerging in 2026 and be one of the first in line!