In recent years the capital of the nation has transformed into a destination for food, moving beyond steakhouses and lunch spots with a new wave of great restaurants popping up in neighborhoods all over the city. Home-grown talent is masterminding some of the hottest restaurants in Washington from locally inspired menus to the far-flung, there’s something for everyone.

Georgetown is a historic neighborhood and entertainment district located in the northwest of Washington D.C. situated along the Potomac River with a variety of appealing restaurants.

Georgetown is a historic neighborhood and entertainment district located in the northwest of Washington D.C. situated along the Potomac River. It is the oldest neighborhood — having been established decades before the nation’s capital itself. The picturesque streets and alleys around the Potomac River offer different storefronts and appealing restaurants. It’s a charming neighborhood with Federal-style architecture, cobblestone streets, and boutiques. Swanky restaurants make up the dining scene and live music lounges in the area. Here you will find five restaurants to visit while in Georgetown.

1. Clyde’s of Georgetown

The original legendary saloon started as Clyde’s of Georgetown. Clyde’s was opened in Georgetown DC in 1963 and is a favorite among residents of the Northwest Washington neighborhoods. The restaurant has helped transform M Street into the commercial destination it is today. Clyde’s serves classic American cuisine, an on-going tradition for 50 years. The re-designed interior has an open and welcoming atmosphere with travel posters, paintings and bronze statues. Clyde’s of Georgetown remains a classic restaurant in the neighborhood.

2. 1789

The décor in 1789 is museum-worthy in this fine dining restaurant located in a Federal home dating back to the mid-1800s. Its six dining rooms are immaculately decorated with American antiques, period equestrian and historical prints creating an elegant setting for guests. In 2007, the restaurant went through a renovation that included opening an extended bar and club room. At 1789 you can try the five-course tasting menu, as well as a la carte offerings such as beef tenderloin with a creamy spinach Tarte, and swordfish with roasted fennel. 1789 Restaurant maintains its historic charm while delighting guests with innovative cuisine to create a unique Georgetown dining experience. The 1789 restaurant is an iconic spot in Washington and worthy of its grand setting.

3. Martin’s Tavern

Martin’s Tavern, has remained a Georgetown favorite due to its service, authentic ambiance, and savory comfort food. The restaurant has been locally owned for four generations since 1933 and is the oldest family-run restaurant in the neighborhood. Martin’s Tavern has had politicians, Hollywood icons, and baseball Hall of Famers walk through its doors to enjoy their food. They claim John F. Kennedy proposed to Jackie O. at one of their booths. The menu at Martin’s is a mix of American and pub food, such as potato skins and fish and chips. It’s an authentic atmosphere that hasn’t been updated in decades, but it is part of the restaurant’s charm.

4. Cafe Milano

Key political diplomats from across all government parties, journalists, broadcasters, lobbyists, entertainers make their way to Café Milano. Café Milano is known for star-studded soirees and Italian food. Guests at Café Milano savor genuine Italian cuisine in a setting reminiscent of a stylish Milan boutique. During the warm-weather months, the front wall of the floor-to-ceiling windows open onto an outdoor sidewalk patio, inserting a touch of the spirit of Italy to the Georgetown streetscape. Café Milano is one of the most sought-after dining spots in Washington.

5. Filomena Ristorante

Filomena offers an old-school Italian dining experience. The dining room is dim, loud, and complete with an area where you can watch your pasta being made by hand. Filomena Ristorante enjoys going all out on decorations for Christmas and Halloween. At Filomena’s you will find fantastic food to enjoy and different stations such as a roasted pig carving station, pasta made to order station, beef carving station, bread encrusted fresh fish carving station, watch fresh mozzarella being prepared before your eyes, homemade season soups and chef’s mixed salads with pasta, meat and cheeses.

These are just five popular restaurants to visit while in Georgetown, DC, but the neighborhood is full of lots of great eateries.