The Dish: Al Fresco Frenzy

by Editorial

Our top picks on great outdoor dining spots in the district!

J&G Steakhouse.

J&G Steakhouse.

Occidental Grill & Seafood

A Washington institution for over 100 years, this venerated restaurant, located in the Willard Intercontinental Hotel, continues to serve four-star dishes to D.C.’s visitors and residents.  Occidental underwent a $2 million renovation in 2007 and is now run under the discerning chef Rodney Scrudds.  The restaurant’s patio offers a wonderful way to enjoy the kitchen’s delectable dishes while taking in the hustle and bustle of the city.

Garden Terrace Lounge at Bourbon Steak

Located in the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel, the Garden Terrace Lounge is available for dining when weather permits, and it’s definitely worth the wait.  It offers not only a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a more low-key scene than Bourbon Steak itself, the lounge features sweeping views of the C&O Canal.

J&G Steakhouse

Spring brought about the opening of the patio portion of this fabulous restaurant, relatively new to the D.C. scene as part of the W Hotel which opened last year.  Patron’s can enjoy Chef Jean-Georges mouth-watering dishes while basking in the glorious views offered by the restaurant’s prime location on Pennsylvania Avenue.

Blue Duck Tavern

Blue Duck Tavern.

Blue Duck Tavern.

This mouth-watering restaurant is located in the West End, which is equidistant from Georgetown and Dupont Circle.  The outdoor dining area is sunken from the street, so patrons can enjoy being outdoors while still being separated from street noise and traffic.  Further enhancing the outdoor dining experience is the hotel’s enormous fountain, adjacent to the restaurant’s patio.

701 Restaurant

Located in Penn Quarter and under the direction of esteemed Chef Adam Longworth, 701 serves up contemporary American fare for all to enjoy.  During the spring and summer months the restaurant opens up its patio, on which patrons can enjoy the beautiful views of the Navy Memorial fountains, perfectly complemented by the restaurant’s inventive cocktails and creative small plate dishes.

Acadiana

Acadiana offers up wonderful southern-style dishes and drinks, which are even more enjoyable when imbibed on the restaurant’s awning-shaded patio.  The establishment’s close proximity to Union Station makes it the perfect stop when

The Source.

The Source.

picking up a friend or loved-one coming into town for a summer visit.

The Source

World-renowned chef Wolfgang Puck’s first D.C. venture, The Source has quickly become one of the hottest restaurants in town.  Part of the Newseum, the dining establishment opens it’s outdoor seating section on 6th street during the spring and summer months, where guests can enjoy fabulous people watching while feasting on delectable Asian cuisine.

Tabaq Bistro

This Mediterranean bistro located in the U Street Corridor puts a different spin on dinning alfresco. Tabaq’s rooftop is fully enclosed in glass, which is halfway retractable, allowing patrons to enjoy the fabulous views of the Capitol and monuments in any weather.

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