The story
The Capital Grille at 601 Pennsylvania Avenue N.W. occupies one of Washington's most storied addresses, steps from the corridors of power that define the capital. The room draws a crowd that knows what it wants: expertly prepared American cuisine, a serious wine list, and service that reads the table without being told.
Wine Spectator awarded The Capital Grille its Best of Award of Excellence, a distinction that speaks directly to the depth and curation of the cellar. This is not a list assembled for appearances — it is built for the guest who wants to pair a well-aged Cabernet with a dry-aged steak and have real options at every price point. The recognition has been part of the restaurant's identity since 2003, underscoring a long-standing commitment to getting the wine program right.
Open for both lunch and dinner, The Capital Grille serves the full arc of the Washington day — the power lunch crowd and the evening tables that linger longer. The American menu is anchored in the classics: dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, and sides that earn their place on the plate. The atmosphere is polished without being stiff, the kind of room where a serious conversation and a serious meal can happen at the same time.
Recognition
Location