Rare Steakhouse & Tavern

The story

Crafted with passion, served with love

A Classic Steakhouse, Reimagined for Washington, DC

RARE Steakhouse & Tavern brings something specific to downtown Washington: the conviction that eating out should be an experience, not just a meal. Founded by Wisconsin natives, the concept first took shape in Madison in May 2014 before expanding to Milwaukee in 2016 and eventually to 1595 I Street NW in the nation's capital. The Midwestern roots are felt in every interaction — service that is smart and sophisticated without a trace of pretension, and a welcome that, in the restaurant's own words, brings guests in "like family."

The Dry-Aging Program

At the center of what RARE does is a serious commitment to beef. The kitchen runs a dedicated dry-aging program in climate-controlled rooms, where cuts tenderize slowly before being butchered in-house and cooked precisely to order. The result is a range that spans wet-aged USDA Prime cuts — Filet Mignon, Capital Cut, New York Strip — through dry-aged bone-in options including a 36 oz Tomahawk, and extends to American and Japanese Wagyu. A New Frontier Bison Ribeye rounds out a selection that goes well beyond the standard steakhouse playbook. The menu also offers Maryland-Style Crab Cakes, Charred Octopus, Roasted Bone Marrow, and Pan-Seared Scallops, so guests who aren't reaching for a steak are equally well served.

The Cellar and the Bar

RARE earned a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, a recognition that reflects the care put into its wine program. The cellar mixes Old World and New World bottles — Burgundy Chablis alongside Napa Cabernet, Willamette Valley Pinot Noir alongside Argentine Malbec — offered by the glass or bottle, with staff trained to guide guests at any level of wine knowledge. The cocktail list leans into the Wisconsin heritage with a brandy-based Old Fashioned alongside more contemporary builds, and the tavern menu keeps things approachable with dry-aged beef sliders and Wisconsin cheese curds.

The Room and Private Events

The atmosphere is classic and elegant — a deliberate nod to the romance of the traditional steakhouse era. For private occasions, RARE offers two dedicated dining rooms, several semi-private spaces, and the option of a full restaurant buyout, making it a practical choice for corporate dinners and personal celebrations alike.