We are thrilled by the influx of natural wine into the district! Our community boasts the highest wine consumption per capita in the nation, a testament to our passion for fine wines. Not only are we enjoying more wine than anywhere else in the United States, but we are also willing to invest more per bottle, recognizing the value of quality.
This trend is particularly promising for natural wines, which often come at a premium compared to conventional wines. The willingness of our residents to pay more for superior products opens up significant opportunities for natural wine producers and retailers. The growing demand for natural wines here suggests a bright future for the industry, fostering a market ripe for innovation and expansion.
Natural wines, celebrated for their unique flavors and sustainable production methods, are perfectly aligned with the discerning tastes of our wine enthusiasts. As we continue to explore and appreciate these exceptional wines, we look forward to supporting and nurturing the burgeoning natural wine scene in our district.
Restaurants:
All these restaurants boast impressive offerings when it comes to natural wines. Some, like 2amys, take their commitment a step further by crafting their own natural wines, providing an authentic and unique experience for their patrons.
At these establishments, you'll find diverse selections, with many featuring full natural wine lists that showcase the best in organic and biodynamic viticulture. Each bottle tells a story of sustainable farming and minimal intervention, capturing the true essence of the terroir.
The Dabney
Address: 122 Blagden Alley NW, 20001
The Dabney is a dining destination renowned for its commitment to showcasing the best of Mid-Atlantic cuisine. This restaurant embraces local and seasonal ingredients, creating dishes that celebrate the region's rich culinary heritage.
In addition to its exquisite food, The Dabney offers an impressive wine program that features a curated selection of natural wines. The knowledgeable staff, including sommeliers and waiters, are more than happy to assist you in navigating their wine list to find the perfect natural wine to complement your meal.
Whether you're looking to explore new flavors or enjoy a refined dining experience, The Dabney provides a welcoming atmosphere where you can indulge in both exceptional food and wine.
The Red Hen
1822 1st St NW, 20001
The Red Hen is a cozy and inviting restaurant known for its creative American-Italian cuisine. This neighborhood gem offers a warm ambiance with rustic decor, making it a perfect spot for both casual and special occasions.
The Red Hen's menu features a variety of delicious dishes made from high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients. Their pasta dishes, in particular, are a highlight, crafted with care and bursting with flavor.
Complementing the food, The Red Hen has an impressive selection of wines, including natural wines. Their wine list is thoughtfully curated, and the staff is knowledgeable and enthusiastic about helping guests find the perfect pairing for their meal. Whether you're a fan of natural wines or looking to try them for the first time, The Red Hen provides an excellent opportunity to explore these unique and flavorful options.
For a delightful dining experience that combines exceptional cuisine with a carefully selected wine list, The Red Hen is a must-visit in Washington, DC.
Etto
Address: 1541 14th St NW, 20005
Etto is a beloved spot known for its artisanal pizzas and Italian-inspired dishes. This restaurant combines a relaxed atmosphere with a focus on high-quality ingredients, offering a memorable dining experience.
Etto's menu showcases a range of delectable options, from wood-fired pizzas to fresh salads and house-made charcuterie. Their commitment to simplicity and flavor shines through in every dish, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
In addition to its outstanding food, Etto also offers a thoughtfully curated wine list that includes natural wines. The staff is passionate about their wine program and can guide you in selecting the perfect natural wine to pair with your meal. Whether you're enjoying a casual dinner or a special night out, Etto's welcoming environment and exceptional offerings make it a must-visit destination for food and wine lovers.
For a delightful dining experience that combines artisanal cuisine with a selection of natural wines, Etto is a fantastic choice in Washington, DC.
Lutece DC
Address: 1522 Wisconsin Avenue NW Washington D.C.
Lutèce DC is a chic and modern bistro that brings a touch of French elegance to the heart of Georgetown. Known for its refined yet approachable cuisine, Lutèce offers a dining experience that blends classic French techniques with contemporary flavors.
The menu at Lutèce features a variety of dishes crafted from fresh, seasonal ingredients, ensuring a delightful culinary experience. From exquisite appetizers to beautifully plated main courses, each dish is thoughtfully prepared to highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Lutèce also boasts a well-curated wine list, including a selection of natural wines that perfectly complement their menu. The knowledgeable staff is always ready to assist you in choosing the ideal wine to enhance your dining experience, whether you are a seasoned wine connoisseur or new to natural wines.
With its stylish ambiance, exceptional food, and carefully selected wines, Lutèce DC is a fantastic choice for those seeking a sophisticated dining experience in Washington, DC.
Tail Up Goat
Address: 1827 Adams Mill Rd NW, Washington, DC 20009
Tail Up Goat is a celebrated restaurant known for its inventive and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. Nestled in the Adams Morgan neighborhood, Tail Up Goat offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.
The menu at Tail Up Goat features a range of dishes that emphasize locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients, with a focus on bold flavors and creative presentations. From handmade pastas to beautifully grilled meats and vegetables, each dish is crafted with care and attention to detail.
In addition to its outstanding food, Tail Up Goat boasts an impressive wine program that includes a selection of natural wines. The staff is passionate about wine and can guide you through their offerings, helping you find the perfect pairing to enhance your meal. Whether you're a natural wine enthusiast or curious to try something new, Tail Up Goat provides an excellent opportunity to explore these unique and expressive wines.
For a dining experience that combines innovative cuisine with a thoughtfully curated wine list, Tail Up Goat is a must-visit destination in Washington, DC.
2amys
Address: 3716 Macomb St NW, 20016
2amys is a renowned pizzeria known for its authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas. This beloved establishment is a staple in the DC dining scene, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere that is perfect for family gatherings and casual outings.
The menu at 2amys features a variety of delicious pizzas made with high-quality ingredients and cooked to perfection in a wood-fired oven. In addition to their pizzas, they offer an array of antipasti, salads, and small plates that highlight the flavors of traditional Italian cuisine.
One of the standout aspects of 2amys is their commitment to natural wines. They not only feature a full natural wine list but also take pride in making their own natural wines. This dedication to natural winemaking ensures that guests have the opportunity to enjoy wines that are made with minimal intervention, showcasing the true character of the grapes and the terroir.
The knowledgeable staff at 2amys is always ready to help you select the perfect natural wine to complement your meal. Whether you are a seasoned wine lover or new to the world of natural wines, you are sure to find something delightful at 2amys.
Sonny's Pizza
Address: 3120 Georgia Ave NW, Washington, DC 20010
Sonny's Pizza is a popular pizzeria known for its delicious, hand-tossed pizzas and laid-back vibe. Situated in the vibrant Park View neighborhood, Sonny's Pizza offers a welcoming and casual atmosphere that makes it a great spot for a relaxed meal with friends or family.
The menu at Sonny's Pizza features a variety of pizza options, from classic favorites to creative combinations, all made with high-quality ingredients and baked to perfection. In addition to their mouth watering pizzas, they also offer a selection of appetizers, salads, and sandwiches that complement the main offerings.
Sonny's Pizza is also known for its well-curated beverage program, which includes a selection of natural wines. These wines are produced with minimal intervention, highlighting the true flavors of the grapes and the regions they come from. The staff at Sonny's Pizza is knowledgeable about their wine offerings and can help you find the perfect natural wine to pair with your meal.
Izakaya Seki
Address: 1117 V St NW, Washington, DC 20009
Izakaya Seki is a cherished destination for those seeking an authentic Japanese dining experience. This family-owned izakaya, or Japanese-style pub, offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for enjoying a casual yet refined meal.
The menu at Izakaya Seki features a wide range of traditional Japanese dishes, from sashimi and sushi to grilled skewers and hearty noodle dishes. Each dish is meticulously prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients, showcasing the rich flavors and culinary traditions of Japan.
In addition to its delicious food, Izakaya Seki boasts an impressive selection of beverages, including sake, Japanese whiskey, and a curated list of natural wines. The natural wines offered here are chosen to complement the flavors of the cuisine, providing a unique and enjoyable dining experience. The knowledgeable staff is always on hand to assist with recommendations, ensuring you find the perfect pairing for your meal.
"A small row home turned into one of the best Japanese restaurants in DC, Izakaya Seki is next level. Soy sauce-dominant cuisine can be challenging to build a wine menu around, but their immaculately constructed wine list is full of bangers that hold up to or enhance their delicious izakaya food." - Peter Szilagyi
St. Vincent Wine
Address: 212 Georgia Ave NW, Washington, DC 20010
St. Vincent Wine in Washington, DC, is known for its cozy atmosphere and a curated selection of wines. It's praised for its knowledgeable staff who can help you find just the right bottle, whether you're looking for something specific or exploring new options. Customers often mention enjoying the relaxed vibe and the opportunity to discover unique and interesting wines. It seems like a place where wine enthusiasts can both learn and enjoy great selections. If you're in the area, it might be worth checking out for a wine tasting experience!
"Diverse bottle selection, great food, and frequent live music. Come with friends, snag a bottle or two, and enjoy indoor or outdoor seating. Super knowledgeable and friendly folks." - Peter Szilagyi
Ellē
Address: 3221 Mt Pleasant St NW, Washington, DC 20010
Ellē is a popular spot known for its inviting atmosphere and creative culinary offerings. This cozy neighborhood eatery combines a bakery, coffee shop, and restaurant, offering a diverse menu that showcases seasonal ingredients and inventive dishes. Ellē is celebrated for its artisanal bread, pastries, and desserts, which are freshly baked in-house daily. Whether you're stopping by for brunch, coffee and pastries, or a full dining experience, Ellē provides a warm and welcoming ambiance that emphasizes community and quality food.
"Cafe by day, restaurant and bar by night. Their menu is full of fun and funky fermentations of all kinds, so natural wine naturally fits right in. Don't hesitate to get some killer cocktails alongside your glass of wine." - Peter Szilagyi
Reverie
Address: 3201 Cherry Hill Ln, Washington, DC 20007
Reverie, a Michelin-starred restaurant located at 3201 Cherry Hill Ln, Washington, DC 20007. Reverie offers an intimate dining experience with a tasting menu focused on seafood and vegetables, curated by award-winning chef Johnny Spero. This approach underscores their commitment to bold, surprising flavors using locally sourced ingredients and the finest global produce.
"Chef Johnny Spero has Noma experience under his belt, so you know you're in for something special. Bev director Marcie Cox is one of the most intuitive, most enthusiastic folks I've gotten to work with in the world of wine, and her pairings are always spot on." - Peter Szilagyi
Wine Shops
Each of these stores has its own flare and specialties! Domestique is founded with Selection Massale and caries many of their wines. Grand Cata focuses on Latin Wines, as the founders are both Latin, but you can find natural wines from across the globe in their stores. DCanter is branching more and more into natural wines so ask about which they have in stock!
Domestique
Address: 10 Florida Ave NW, 20001
Domestique is a well-regarded natural wine shop and bar located at 10 Florida Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001. Known for its curated selection of natural and small-producer wines, Domestique offers a unique experience for wine enthusiasts looking to explore artisanal and sustainable wine options. The shop often hosts tastings and events that highlight their eclectic and carefully chosen wines. It's a favorite spot among locals and visitors alike who appreciate quality and a focus on natural winemaking practices. If you're into natural wines, it's definitely a place worth checking out!
Grand Cata
Address: 1550 7th St. NW, 20001
Grand Cata is a wine shop and Latin wine bar located at 1550 7th St. NW, Washington, DC 20001. It specializes in showcasing wines from Latin America, offering a wide selection from countries like Argentina, Chile, Mexico, and more. The shop is known for its commitment to promoting and celebrating the diversity and quality of wines produced in Latin American regions. Grand Cata also hosts events and tastings to educate and engage customers in the vibrant world of Latin American wines. It's a popular spot for both wine enthusiasts and those looking to explore new flavors and cultural experiences through wine.
DCanter
Address: 545 8th Street SE, 20003
DCanter is a wine boutique located at 545 8th Street SE, Washington, DC 20003. Known for its wide selection of wines from around the world, DCanter offers an array of choices ranging from popular labels to unique, lesser-known wines. The shop emphasizes personalized service, helping customers find wines that match their tastes and occasions. DCanter also hosts events like tastings and educational sessions, making it a hub for wine enthusiasts and those looking to explore new varietals and regions. It's a popular spot in Capitol Hill for both locals and visitors interested in discovering quality wines.
Chats Liquors on Capitol Hill
Address: 503 8th St SE, Washington, DC 20003
Chats Liquors is a well-known liquor store located at 503 8th St SE, Washington, DC 20003, right in Capitol Hill. It's appreciated for its wide selection of spirits, wines, and beers, catering to a diverse clientele in the area. Chats Liquors is noted for its friendly service and convenience, making it a go-to spot for residents and visitors looking to purchase beverages for various occasions. If you're in the Capitol Hill neighborhood and need a reliable liquor store with a good selection, Chats Liquors is a solid choice.
Nido Wine Shop + Market
Address: 3155 Mt Pleasant St NW, Washington, DC 20010
Nido Wine Shop + Market is known for its selection of wines, focusing on curated offerings that emphasize quality and variety. The shop also features a market section where customers can find gourmet foods and ingredients to pair with their wine selections. Nido Wine Shop + Market aims to create a welcoming atmosphere for wine enthusiasts and food lovers alike, providing a space where patrons can explore and enjoy new flavors and experiences. If you're in the Mount Pleasant area and looking for a wine shop with a curated selection and a market component, Nido is worth checking out.
Gemini × Happy Ice Cream
Address: 1509 17th Street NW, Washington DC 20036
This innovative concept seamlessly blends the pleasures of natural wine and artisanal ice cream during the day with an elevated dining experience in the evening. By day, the establishment functions as a natural wine and ice cream shop, inviting patrons to explore a carefully curated selection of wines sourced from natural producers and growers. The wines are available for purchase at retail prices, whether for immediate enjoyment on-site or to take away. This setup not only encourages exploration and appreciation of natural wines but also provides a relaxed setting where customers can indulge in high-quality ice cream offerings alongside their wine selections.
As night falls, the venue transforms into a culinary destination featuring Johnny Monis’s renowned naturally-leavened pizzas and Greco-Roman dishes. This transition caters to diners seeking a more immersive gastronomic experience, highlighting the culinary expertise of the James Beard Award-winning team behind Komi and Little Serow. The menu reflects a blend of tradition and innovation, showcasing dishes inspired by Greco-Roman cuisine, prepared with meticulous attention to flavor and quality. Whether patrons choose to dine inside or on the patio, they can expect a sophisticated yet approachable atmosphere that complements the refined flavors and textures of the food and wine offerings.
St. Anselm
Address: 1250 5th St NE, Washington, DC 20002
St. Anselm, situated at 1250 5th St NE, Washington, DC 20002, stands out as a beloved steakhouse celebrated for its dedication to quality and flavor. Specializing in grilling meats over hardwood, St. Anselm offers a menu that showcases prime cuts of beef, lamb, pork, and more, cooked to perfection to bring out their natural juices and smoky essence. The restaurant's commitment to using high-quality ingredients and traditional grilling techniques ensures a dining experience that is both robust and satisfying.
Beyond its culinary prowess, St. Anselm provides a warm and inviting ambiance that enhances every visit. The rustic yet modern decor, paired with attentive service, creates an atmosphere ideal for intimate dinners or casual gatherings. Whether you're indulging in their signature steaks or exploring their diverse menu of seafood and vegetable dishes, St. Anselm promises a memorable dining experience where great food and camaraderie come together effortlessly.
Maydan
1346 Florida Ave NW, Washington, DC 20009
Maydan is a vibrant restaurant renowned for its unique dining experience centered around fire-cooked dishes inspired by the flavors of the Middle East and North Africa. The restaurant's name, which means "town square" in Arabic, reflects its communal dining philosophy where guests gather around an open hearth to enjoy meals prepared with passion and skill.
At Maydan, the menu features a variety of dishes cooked over an open flame, including skewers of meat, seafood, and vegetables, as well as flavorful bread and dips. Each dish is crafted using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and traditional cooking techniques, ensuring a rich and authentic dining experience.
The ambiance at Maydan is as inviting as its cuisine, with a bustling and lively atmosphere that adds to the communal spirit of the restaurant. The decor is inspired by the markets and gathering places found throughout the Middle East, creating a warm and welcoming environment for guests to enjoy their meals together.
Iron Gate
Address: 1734 N St NW, Washington, DC 20036
Iron Gate is renowned for its Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and extensive selection of natural wines. It occupies a historic building with a romantic courtyard setting, offering a charming atmosphere for dining. Iron Gate's menu features dishes crafted from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, complemented by a curated wine list that includes a variety of natural and sustainable wines. Whether enjoying a meal indoors or in their picturesque outdoor space, patrons can indulge in the rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine paired with thoughtfully selected natural wines at Iron Gate.
Lupo Verde
Address: 1401 T St NW, Washington, DC 20009
Lupo Verde, located at 1401 T St NW, Washington, DC 20009, is a popular Italian restaurant and wine bar known for its authentic cuisine and extensive selection of wines. With a cozy and rustic ambiance, Lupo Verde offers a welcoming atmosphere perfect for enjoying a meal with friends or a romantic dinner.
The menu at Lupo Verde features a variety of traditional Italian dishes, including homemade pastas, artisanal pizzas, and flavorful meat and seafood entrees. Each dish is crafted with care using high-quality ingredients, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of Italy.
In addition to its exceptional food, Lupo Verde boasts an impressive wine program with a focus on Italian wines. The wine list includes a diverse selection of reds, whites, and sparkling wines, as well as a variety of natural wines for guests to explore and enjoy.
All-Purpose Pizzeria
Address: 1250 9th St NW, Washington, DC 20001
All-Purpose Pizzeria is a popular restaurant known for its delicious pizzas and Italian-American cuisine. Situated in the vibrant Shaw neighborhood, All-Purpose offers a lively and casual dining experience that appeals to both locals and visitors alike.
The menu at All-Purpose Pizzeria features a variety of pizzas made with house-made dough and topped with fresh ingredients. From classic margherita to inventive combinations like "The Red, White & Green" and "Spicy Soppressata," each pizza is cooked to perfection in a wood-fired oven, ensuring a crispy crust and flavorful toppings.
In addition to their pizzas, All-Purpose offers a selection of appetizers, salads, and pasta dishes that showcase the flavors of Italian-American cuisine. The restaurant's commitment to using high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking techniques ensures a memorable dining experience for guests.
Wine Bars
All of these bars have amazing wine selections! Maxwell Park changes their menu by theme every month (make sure you ask which are natural) and Cork has some of the best pricing you'll find in the district!
Maxwell Park
Address: 1336 9th Street NW, 20001 and 1346 4th St SE, 20003
Maxwell Park is a unique wine bar with two locations in Washington, DC. The first, located at 1336 9th Street NW, is renowned for its intimate and cozy atmosphere, offering a diverse selection of wines from around the globe. Known for its innovative approach to wine, Maxwell Park on 9th Street NW features a rotating menu that showcases different wine regions, varietals, and styles, appealing to both wine enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. Its knowledgeable staff and laid-back ambiance make it a favorite spot for enjoying high-quality wines in a relaxed setting.
The second location, situated at 1346 4th Street SE in the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood, maintains Maxwell Park's reputation for excellence in wine selection and service. This location continues the tradition of offering a curated wine list that caters to the vibrant community in the area. Like its counterpart, the 4th Street SE location provides an inviting environment where patrons can explore and appreciate a variety of wines, whether they are discovering new favorites or enjoying familiar classics. Both Maxwell Park locations prioritize creating a welcoming and educational wine experience, blending expertise with accessibility to cater to wine aficionados and casual drinkers seeking quality and enjoyment in Washington, DC.
Cork
Address: 1805 14th St NW, 20009
Cork Wine Bar & Market, located at 1805 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009, is a popular destination for wine enthusiasts in the city. It combines a cozy wine bar ambiance with a market offering a curated selection of wines for purchase. Cork is known for its extensive wine list, featuring both well-known labels and unique finds from around the world. The bar provides a relaxed atmosphere where patrons can enjoy wines by the glass or bottle, paired with a menu of small plates and charcuterie.
In addition to its wine bar, Cork also operates as a market, allowing customers to explore and purchase bottles to take home. This dual concept caters to both those looking to savor wines onsite and enthusiasts interested in expanding their personal collections. With its commitment to quality wines and a welcoming atmosphere, Cork Wine Bar & Market has become a staple in the vibrant dining and drinking scene along 14th Street in Washington, DC.
Barkada
Address: 1939 12th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
Barkada, located at 1939 12th St NW, Washington, DC 20009, is a Filipino restaurant that offers a modern twist on traditional Filipino dishes. It's known for its vibrant and cozy atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both casual dining and special occasions. The menu at Barkada features a variety of Filipino-inspired dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients, showcasing the rich and diverse flavors of Filipino cuisine.
The restaurant aims to create a communal dining experience, reflecting the Filipino concept of "barkada," which means a group of friends. Barkada encourages sharing and exploration of flavors through dishes like adobo, sisig, and lumpia, prepared with Chef Brian MacMenamin's innovative touch. Whether you're familiar with Filipino cuisine or trying it for the first time, Barkada offers a welcoming environment where patrons can enjoy delicious food and a cultural dining experience in the heart of Washington, DC.
No Kisses
Address: 3120 Georgia Ave NW, Washington, DC 20010
"No Kisses" at 3120 Georgia Ave NW, Washington, DC 20010, seems to be a trendy bar and restaurant known for its unique atmosphere and creative cocktails. It's recognized for its innovative approach to mixology, offering a menu that features inventive and artisanal drinks crafted with attention to detail and quality ingredients. The bar's ambiance is described as eclectic and inviting, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy a memorable night out.
The name "No Kisses" suggests a playful and perhaps slightly mysterious vibe, adding to the bar's allure. Whether you're stopping by for a signature cocktail, exploring their food menu, or simply soaking in the ambiance, "No Kisses" promises an experience that blends creativity with a relaxed social setting, making it a standout destination along Georgia Ave in Washington, DC.
Primrose
Address: 3000 12th St NE, 20017
Primrose is a charming wine bar and restaurant located at 3000 12th St NE, Washington, DC 20017. Known for its cozy and inviting atmosphere, Primrose offers a delightful selection of wines, with a focus on natural and organic varieties. The bar is celebrated for its curated wine list, featuring bottles from small producers and unique regions, providing patrons with an opportunity to explore new and distinctive flavors.
In addition to its exceptional wine offerings, Primrose also features a menu of French-inspired cuisine, crafted with locally sourced ingredients. Dishes range from classic French bistro fare to inventive plates that complement the wine selection perfectly. The restaurant's ambiance combines a rustic charm with modern elegance, creating a welcoming space ideal for both casual gatherings and intimate dining experiences.
Primrose's commitment to quality, both in its wines and culinary offerings, has made it a favorite among wine enthusiasts and food lovers in the Brookland neighborhood of Washington, DC. Whether you're looking to discover new wines or enjoy delicious French cuisine, Primrose provides a cozy retreat where you can indulge in a memorable dining experience.
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Washington DC offers a vibrant and diverse landscape for natural wine enthusiasts. From cozy wine bars like Maxwell Park and Primrose that specialize in curated selections from small producers, to innovative concepts like combining natural wines with artisanal ice cream at unique spots, the city presents a range of options to explore and enjoy.
Whether you're seeking a relaxed afternoon tasting new varietals or a sophisticated evening pairing fine wines with gourmet dishes, DC's natural wine scene caters to every palate and preference. These establishments not only showcase the artistry and sustainability of natural winemaking but also create memorable experiences that reflect the city's dynamic culinary culture. Whether you're a local resident or visiting, discovering natural wines in Washington DC promises a journey of flavor, discovery, and community.
THANK YOU TO OUR CONTRIBUTORS!
We want to take a moment to give a HUGE thank you to our local contributors and their additions to the series. Find them below with their social and links if you want to see people drinking the best natural wine in Washington DC!
As always, if you know of other locations or have updates about these locations, please shoot us a message so we can keep this as updated as possible!
