At Le Diplomate, it’s as if someone picked up a Parisian bistro and dropped it in the middle of D.C.’s trendy 14th Street—shiny red booths, green subway tile, a show-stopping zinc bar, and all. Philly restaurateur Stephen Starr’s audacious French brasserie is still a hot ticket a decade in, particularly the l’Orangerie space and the charming sidewalk tables. Favorites here include bistro dishes like the seafood plateau, house cheeseburger, steak frites, pricey dover sole meunière (available on Thursdays), and trout amandine.

Since it opened in 2013, Le Diplomat has functioned as DC’s official meeting place for well executed French food in a revolving door of a dining room. The 14th Street restaurant provides the same familiarity you might find in your most comfortable—but not necessarily most fashionable—sweater, and as such, is widely considered a district-wide classic. It’s one of the most reliable places for comforting gruyère omelets at brunch and a crisp late night martini at the always full bar.

Fourteenth Street’s transformation is never more apparent than when you walk into Le Diplomate. From the globe lights overhead and the wood floors underfoot, to the woven bistro chairs and the curieux that adorn the walls—most everything you can touch or see or even hear in restaurateur-impresario Stephen Starr’s brasserie is literally imported from France itself. Even the name, Le Diplomate, is taken from a Parisian bistro Starr once visited.

Modern French brasserie Le Diplomate is well-known amongst DC brunch goers for its charming sidewalk seating, and for remaining one of the city’s most bustling brunch options since it first opened in 2005. Try one of the delicious egg dishes off the “Les Oeufs” menu, like the Gruyere Omelet or Poached Eggs Basquaise, or go for the many bistro items like the Croque Madame, Steak Frites, or Moules Frites.

Recreating the experience of the classic Parisian cafe, Le Diplomate is a Stephen Starr establishment that has helped Fourteenth Street’s revitalization. Everything in the bistro, from the food to decorations, is imported from France, and the tastes of Le Diplomate have proven too good to ignore. Try the classic staples of onion soup gratinee, steak frites or go contemporary with shaved tongue of veal.

Le Diplomate brings France’s chic bistro culture to D.C.’s trendy U Street Corridor. Upon entering through its bright blue door frame, the high ceilings, antique decor, and bread-cart centerpiece will have you checking for your passport. The classic French cuisine is on display with colorful salads, juicy steak frites, and rich crème brûlée.

The scene: Paying homage to the iconic French café culture, Le Diplomate provides diners with a comfortable place to enjoy everything from classic steak frites on a romantic weeknight date to a flaky croissant for a relaxed weekend brunch or a plate of fresh oysters for a special occasion lunch. Taking leave from the usual fine dining atmosphere French restaurants are known for, Le Diplomate has a distinctly warm and inviting ambiance, with comfy booths, extended windows and a tiled floor giving it a casual patio-like feel. The extensive menu features a medley of French classics, such as bouillabaisse and onion soup, along with more international classics, like burgers and half roast chickens.

Snag reservations ahead of time for seats at this Parisian-style brasserie and sidewalk cafe on the 14th Street corridor, where crowds often snake out beyond the front door. The extensive weekend brunch menu features a raw bar, French classics like a croque madame, quiche Florentine, burger Americain, plus several variations on "les ouefs." Order the eggs Norwegian, with smoked salmon and hollandaise sauce, which pairs well with the house spritz cocktail (Lillet blanc, sparkling wine, sour orange, and rhubarb root) or sparkling wine by the glass or carafe. What to Order: Try the duck sarladaise, it comes with a sunny side-up egg, potatoes, and sauce foyot.

This iconic Parisian-style brasserie on 14th Street is one of our favorite places in town, and we cannot recommend the French Onion Soup and Steak Frites enough!. Aside from the delicious menu filled with classic French dishes, Le Diplomate also boasts a well-rounded wine menu, and an incredible list of cocktails to choose from. That being said, the best part about this restaurant, at least to us, is that it truly does feel like you’ve been transported to Paris with its incredible well-built ambiance and its beautiful outdoor-dining space.

Stepping inside 14th Street’s Le Diplomate always felt as if you were walking into a bistro in the Marais, but a new section of street seating adds to the illusion. “You really feel even more like you’re in Paris,” says Eva Torres, the director of restaurants for Starr Restaurants in D.C. To ward off the chill, Torres brought in propane heaters in the outdoor parklet seating area and Le Diplomate-branded blankets for guests to use while sitting outside, either to borrow or to purchase.

Three old favorites are Bistrot Du Coin a few blocks from Dupont Circle (where the champagne list is legendary for selection and modest prices), Le Diplomate (a perfect facsimile of a Parisian brasserie, legendary for being packed at brunch), and the jewel box which is Bistrot Lepic in upper Georgetown. Their menus are about as trendy as boeuf bourguignon, but when you step through the doors, the warm embrace of wine-infused cooking permeates the room, the food, and your soul.

When restaurateur Stephen Starr armed 14th Street with a slice of Paris in spring 2013, he had an instant classic on his hands, and what seems to be a perennial, highly-lauded favorite. Part brasserie, part cafe, part bistro, Le Diplomate is France-meets-DC. Brown butter-infused trout amandine and perfectly cooked steak au poivre – rest assured, it’s peppery – share the menu alongside chilled oysters, a famed roast chicken and ever-munchable pommes frites.

Le Diplomate, Stephen Starr’s perennially packed French brasserie, hardly needs an introduction—everyone from President Biden to your out-of-town relatives have angled for a table. Credit a soiree-like atmosphere, approachable menus—though one can always splurge on lobster frites and Champagne—and sniper-like consistency. Sister Union Market tavern St. Anselm is also a hit, with biscuits and killer avocado toast in addition to axe-handle ribeyes.

This beloved, well-storied Stephen Starr restaurant continues to stand out because of how well-suited to all facets of life it is. You can take visiting parents there during the week or have a boozy weekend celebration, and no one will blink twice. The main dining room remains a beloved and treasured space for dining, the bar is always bustling and full of kinetic energy, and favorites like steak tartare and trout amandine are always done right.

is not only one of the best cities to go to for a feel of American history and culture, it is also a spectacular place to get away from the feeling of being in the United States, without actually needing a stamp in your passport. When you walk into Le Diplomate, it as if you’ve walked into the doors of a Parisian café. The restaurant takes after French café culture and is the perfect place to enjoy a cappuccino and a conversation.

Le Diplomate is one of the most romantic restaurants in DC, especially if you’re in the mood for French-inspired cuisine. The braised lamb with couscous is delicious, and you’ll enjoy the petite plateau fruit de Mer is a tasty choice if you and your date are fans of seafood. The duck confit with yellow tomatoes is a visually impressive entree that is great for sharing, or you can enjoy the seared scallops together.

Le Diplomate pays homage to the classic French bistro and has become a cornerstone of the D.C. dining scene since its establishment on 14th Street NW. This bustling spot is consistently packed, drawing in people with its perfect baguettes, delectable onion soup, and the quintessential steak frites. The ambiance, complete with a charming French-inspired decor, transports diners straight to the streets of Paris.

Le Diplomate is a staple in the District's dining scene, often described as a must-visit for first-timers. James Beard-winning restauranteur Steven Starr's French café concept certainly looks the part; on the interior, a marble embrace sweeps around an earnest bread station, and accents of red get deeper the longer you gaze. But on a French summer day, outside is the place to go, and it's the same at Le Dip.

Mimosa service and Macaroni Au Gratin; two things that should always go together are just a couple of delicious offerings you'll find inside this lovely historic structure. It's like walking into a Parisian brasserie with an extensive menu featuring a variety of Gallic classics, specialty cocktails, and a thoughtfully curated wine list. Check out the ambiance on the Le Diplomate Facebook page.

For a taste of France right here in Washington, D.C., head to this bistro which offers an incredible comfort food menu for lunch, brunch, midday and dinner. Brunch options include breakfast favorites like eggs benedict and avocado toast and entree choices including beef bourguignon and trout amandine. Dinner offers succulent hors d'oeuvres, tasty entrees and a full wine and dessert menu.

The restaurant says: "Le Diplomate pays sincere homage to French cafe culture, providing a comfortable, versatile gathering place that’s become an anchor for Washington, D.C.’s resurgent 14th Street corridor. ... The extensive menu features a variety of Gallic classics, including onion soup gratinée, steak frites and escargots, as well as daily plates such as bouillabaisse and cassoulet.

125 Founder’s Ave., Falls Church, Va., elliebirdva.comLe DiplomateThe French may have mastered crepes, but at Le Diplomate, pancakes are the true star. Stop in for brunch to try their traditional buttermilk pancakes, served with rich maple syrup. Those looking to indulge a little more can add an order of yogurt parfait and macaroni au gratin to spice up their Parisian-inspired breakfast.

Winning high marks for both location and atmosphere, Le Diplomate is just north of Washington D.C.’s monuments and museums in the 14th St. Corridor. Fans also rave that one of the best outdoor dining spots in Washington DC delivers exceptional food. “If you’re on the hunt for textbook-perfect escargots, shellfish towers or beef bourguignon,” says Washington Post food critic Tom Sistema.

Le Diplomate pays sincere homage to French cafe culture, providing a comfortable, versatile gathering place that’s become an anchor for Washington, D.C.’s resurgent 14th Street corridor,” reads the website. Grab a seat on the outdoor patio for a decadent Charcuterie plate, Lobster Frites with garlic-herb butter, and Steak Au Poivre. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to France.

After Baked & Wired (written about later in this post), Le Diplomate comes second in the most recommended when I crowdsourced top restaurants in Washington, DC. Their bread table is what dreams are made of. Le Diplomate serves classic French cuisine in a space that transports you to Europe. Dining in their covered patio on their small tables brought me back to my short time in Paris.

Le Diplomate is one of the best restaurants to visit when you are in the mood to have a great French experience in your locale. They sincerely highlight the culture and traditions of the French café lifestyle with satisfying food and impressive surroundings. This restaurant provides a comfortable and versatile gathering place for many people that come to them and enjoy their menu.

If going to Paris isn't an option this weekend (darn), book a table at Le Diplomate, a charming French brasserie in Logan Circle. It will make you feel transported across the Atlantic for a romantic meal in a classic Parisian setting. With an extensive menu featuring Gallic classics and a curated wine list, Le Diplomate will have you falling in love with each other all over again.

Furthermore, Le Diplomate is a DC classic, and while I can’t say I’ve ever been, I will say that it caught my eye every time I drove by. It’s an old-fashioned, french cafe-style restaurant with an outdoor patio, becoming a gathering place for many residents in the area. The restaurant is an experience in and of itself and is a great option to think about for an evening out.

Le Diplomate pays homage to French café culture serving breakfast, lunch, brunch, mid-day and dinner. The extensive menu features a variety of classic favorites including Onion Soup Gratinée, Steak Frites and Escargots as well as daily plats such as Lavender Roast Duck and Rabbit en Gibelotte. Large wine list with half French wines and half “International Interpretations”.

It’s not easy to get a table at this stylish French bistro in the trendy Logan Circle neighborhood, especially not for weekend brunch. With a raw bar and an upscale menu of luxurious brunch favorites, it’s no wonder why people flock to this restaurant’s impressive sidewalk patio and cafe. Their egg options from the “Les Oeufs” menu are indulgent, to say the least.

If having breakfast or brunch outdoorsoutdoor is your thing, then Le Diplomate is the place to be. This modern French brasserie is popular for its charming sidewalk seating, which features stylish enclosed booths with café tables and green striped wicker chairs. The main draw here is their basket of three types of delicious, freshly baked bread and soft butter.

With its shiny red booths, green subway tiles, and a zinc bar, Le Diplomate pays homage to French cafe culture. The extensive menu features French classics like onion soup gratinée, steak frites and escargots, bouillabaisse, and a slow-cooked meat and white-bean cassoulet. To wash it all down, there’s a carefully curated wine list and specialty cocktails.

Le Diplomate in Logan Circle is a bustling brassiere with classic French fare. Jose Andres just may just be the restaurant king of the city, ask his legions of fans that equally praise Zaytinya and China Chilcano. We loved our meal of chef-driven small plates at The Dabney, where everything is cooked over an open-hearth fire, the star of the open kitchen.

Le Diplomate offers French café culture in Washington, DC. So, if you really wish to take your date on a whirlwind trip to Paris, at least the two of you can still soak in some of the culture of the City of Lights. The menu at Le Diplomate is extensive, but let’s focus solely on the desserts. After all, romantic dates in DC must include something sweet!

If you find yourself at Le Diplomate, don’t miss out on the many seafood options served here. On the menu, a half-dozen Belon oysters are served at $26, while a half-dozen assorted oysters are served at $23. The two options for seafood towers are the Petit Plateau at $115 for one to three people and the Grand Plateau at $185 for four to six people.

Paying respect to French cafe culture, Le Diplomate provides a comfortable gathering place on the District’s trendy 14th Street. Built out of a historic structure, the entire restaurant perfectly emulates a Parisian bistro in both style and menu. Meals include a variety of Gallic classics, such as escargot, onion soup gratinée, and steak frites.

Treat yourself to a little slice of Europe at Le Diplomate, a quaint and popular DC restaurant inspired by French café culture. At Le Diplomate, you can enjoy your food for as long as you’d like, no matter how slow of an eater you are. The restaurant aims to be a gathering space for patrons, to truly embrace the laissez-faire French culture.

On the weekend, head over to Le Diplomate for a photograph-worthy Parisian brunch. This chic, French-inspired café can be found right around the corner on 14th Street and looks as if it has simply been cut and pasted straight from Montmartre. The brasserie’s undeniable aesthetic appeal still pales in comparison to their enticing menu.

Transport yourself to Paris without leaving the city by visiting Le Diplomate. This charming French bistro in Logan Circle captures the essence of a romantic evening with its warm lighting, rustic decor, and classic French cuisine. Indulge in escargots, bouillabaisse, or a delectable crème brûlée while savoring the romantic ambiance.

Whisk that special someone off to Le Diplomate for a romantic date. Enjoy brunch, a midday meal or dinner with French classics such as steak frites, onion soup gratinee, beef bourguignon, foie gras parfait and escargots. Anyone who visits this bustling restaurant will clearly recognize how it pays homage to French café culture.

If you’re craving some rich French food for lunch and a buzzy vibe, you should check out Le Diplomate. This trendy French bistro in Logan Circle has a cozy atmosphere and a delicious menu that will make you feel like you’re in a bistro in Paris. The restaurant serves classic French dishes using locally sourced ingredients.

One of the great things about the increased need for takeaway is restaurants became extremely crafty with their foods. One of my favorite innovations from this time has been the make-at-home meal kit. Le Diplomate has created a perfect meal kit for a group of 4 with instructions for 4 cheeseburgers and dilly potato salad.

staple, Le Diplomate pays homage to the elegance of French cuisines while serving fare sure to please almost any American taste. It’s no wonder that many celebrities, politicians, influencers, and famous foodies have chosen “Le Dip” (as it is affectionately known) as their go-to spot for a fancy, utterly delicious meal.

#7 Le Diplomate: In honor of the holiday, Stephen Starr’s 14th Street staple will be serving up exclusive brunch and dinner menus. During the day, indulge in festive classics like Eggs Benedict and Poached Eggs Basquaise; come nightfall, an Herb Roasted Leg of Lamb is the most fitting way to celebrate in style.

Who in town makes a lighter foie gras mousse, or a finer duck a l’orange, the skin of the leg fried so that it shatters under your teeth?. ” writes Washington Post food critic Tom Sietsema. Le Diplomate serves delightfully-prepared French fare in an authentic setting that pays homage to French cafe culture.

Your little one's picky palate may not be ready for French food in general, but their immature taste buds will appreciate this vanilla bean crème brûlée. The toasted sugar crust has the perfect amount of crunch, while still remaining a creamy, rich dessert. It comes with a French cookie on the side, too.

Capital Exotic had a team dinner at this restaurant, and we enjoyed our dinner outside the seating area. We liked that they offer food inside and outside without changing the menu. Le Diplomate has become popular in the 14th Street corridor of DC because of its quality and versatility in French Cuisine.

Le Diplomate: Once Le Diplomate re-opened for takeout service, I almost didn't want to order from there. Part of Le Diplomate's greatness is the energy of being there. And, I didn't want to diminish the quality of the french fries by letting them wilt in the backseat of a delivery driver's car.

Washingtonians love to eat brunch and when they do, they come here, to Stephen Starr’s French-inspired bistro, Le Diplomate. The restaurant offers some of France’s classic dishes like cassoulet, roast chicken and duck sarladaise. It also happens to make one of the best burgers in the District.

Le Diplomate’s menu features classic Gallic cuisine, including onion soup gratinée, steak frites, beef bourguignon, and, of course, escargot. A thoughtfully curated wine list and specialty cocktail program complete the experience. Just don’t forget to make reservations, especially for dinner.

Address: 1601 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009Phone:+1 (202) 332-3333Website:lediplomatedc.comDetails: $$$, French restaurant. Le Diplomate, a French restaurant located in Washington DC, offers a remarkable dining experience. The staff provides excellent service, ensuring a memorable visit.

Yes, you’ll see this on lists for everything from best brunch to where to take your parents, but it’s a classic. This French restaurant on 14th has excellent food, an intimate yet lively vibe, and the seats outside are perfect for romantically snuggling à les Parisiens on a gorgeous day.

If you’re searching for an incredible French Bistro, you won’t want to miss out on Le Diplomate. Don’t forget to check out the raw bar and order specialties such as the frites with aioli. You’ll want to reserve ahead since this restaurant is incredibly popular in the D.C.

Le Diplomate is home to the spectacular milk chocolate pot de crème. This dessert is so rich that it has the singular honor of being the only dessert that I can’t finish in one sitting. Split this dessert with the rest of your table the next time you eat at Le Diplomate.

This French restaurant does an incredible brunch and their dinner is just as good. They have a wide selection of cheeses and every sauce in a dish I have eaten there is just awesome. You should head up to 14th Street and eat some of their crème brûlée.

I've just tried just about every whole wheat sourdough I could get my hands on in DC, and the Diplomate had among the best. (Also tried baked Joint, Ravenhook, Firehook, fresh baguette, Atwater's; Seylou is also top tier; did not try Elle).

Our love for Le Diplomate is well recorded on this blog, and why not?. It’s the quickest route to Paris we know!. You have to love the commitment of a restaurant that offers not just a dessert menu, but also a brunch dessert menu.

Le Diplomate is a French bistro that welcomes dogs on their outdoor patio. They offer a special "doggy bag" with treats for your pup. What makes this restaurant unique is its authentic French cuisine and charming atmosphere.

This is the best restaurant for allergies that I have ever been to, and I had the best waiter I have ever dealt with!. The food and service was outstanding. We even learned something new about nut allergies!

The sidewalk cafe makes you feel as if you have been transported to France and the cuisine will not shatter this illusion. This brasserie offers classic French cuisine that will delight your tastebuds.

Le Diplomate celebrates French café culture along the busy 14th Street corridor. The restaurant’s outdoor brick patio is perfect for people-watching, and you don’t need a reservation for patio seats.

A photo posted by Le Diplomate (@lediplomatedc) on Mar 7, 2015 at 6:04am PST. When ordering the Burger Americain from Le Diplomate, the waitress described it as a Big Mac but better.

1601 14th St. N.W. Telephone (202) 332-3333 Websitelediplomatedc.com Award of Excellence. Le Diplomate is a long-time go-to for great wine and French classics in Washington, D.C.

Every major US city has at least one traditional French brasserie – and I’m here to tell you that Le Diplomate is the most perfect one I’ve found. Gooey French onion soup?

🦞 Le Diplomate: A buttery gruyere omelet ($17) is available any time at Le Dip, though look out for the lobster omelet special ($32) with gruyere-infused mornay sauce.

Also on 14th Street, we recommend Le Diplomate, one of the most popular restaurants in the city, and Barcelona Wine Bar for Spanish tapas and excellent wines.

For a taste of France right here in Washington, D.C., head to this bistro which offers an incredible comfort food menu for lunch, brunch, midday and...

Steeped in French culture and tradition, this Logan Circle eatery is one of the best D.C. restaurants for European classic fare at affordable prices.

Le Diplomate – A famous French restaurant that offers classic bistro dishes in a lively and bustling atmosphere in the 14th Street Neighborhood.