Looking for Keto-Friendly Restaurants in Washington, D.C.? Here Are the Top 5 You Need to Visit!
Have you ever found yourself struggling to find a restaurant that caters to your keto lifestyle while you’re in Washington, D.C.? You’re not alone. The keto diet, with its low-carb, high-fat focus, can be tricky to maintain, especially when dining out. But don’t worry! Washington, D.C. is home to several incredible eateries that offer delicious meals perfect for anyone following a keto diet. Whether you’re new to keto or a seasoned veteran, these restaurants are sure to satisfy your cravings without kicking you out of ketosis.
In this article, we’ve done the hard work of researching the top keto-friendly restaurants in Washington, D.C., based on various factors such as menu offerings, location, and customer reviews. Each of these spots offers flavorful keto options, making it easier to stick to your diet while enjoying a night out in the city. Let’s dive into our list of the best keto restaurants in Washington, D.C.!
1. Founding Farmers
Location:
1924 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, D.C. 20006
Hours: Monday – Sunday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Why You Should Visit:
Founding Farmers is a must-visit for anyone looking for a farm-to-table experience with keto-friendly options. This restaurant is committed to offering sustainable and locally sourced ingredients, which means you can enjoy your meal knowing it’s both delicious and ethically sourced. Founding Farmers is known for its wide variety of menu items, many of which are perfect for keto dieters.
Keto-Friendly Dishes:
- Grilled Salmon with Asparagus and Lemon Butter
- Grass-fed Ribeye Steak with Herb Butter
- Roasted Vegetable Bowl (Ask for no starchy veggies)
Founding Farmers also offers a customizable menu, allowing you to tweak your dishes to keep them keto-friendly. For instance, you can swap out carb-heavy sides for leafy greens or roasted non-starchy vegetables.
What Makes It Unique:
Founding Farmers stands out for its dedication to sustainability and its vast menu that can be adapted to various dietary needs. The cozy, rustic ambiance makes it a perfect spot for both casual dining and special occasions.
2. The Grill Room
Location:
1050 31st St NW, Washington, D.C. 20007
Hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM
Why You Should Visit:
Located in the heart of Georgetown, The Grill Room is an upscale dining experience with a focus on quality cuts of meat—perfect for keto enthusiasts. This restaurant is known for its luxurious atmosphere and attentive service, making it an ideal choice for a special night out.
Keto-Friendly Dishes:
- Dry-Aged Prime Ribeye with Garlic Butter
- Pan-Seared Scallops with Cauliflower Puree
- Grilled Lamb Chops with Fresh Herbs
The Grill Room’s menu is full of high-fat, low-carb options that cater well to keto diners. Their commitment to premium ingredients ensures that each dish is packed with flavor and nutritional value.
What Makes It Unique:
The Grill Room offers a luxurious experience with dishes that emphasize high-quality, keto-friendly ingredients. If you’re looking for a fine dining option that aligns with your low-carb lifestyle, this is the place to be. Don’t forget to ask about their wine selection, which features low-sugar options perfect for keto!
3. Rasa
Location:
1247 First St SE, Washington, D.C. 20003
Hours: Monday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Why You Should Visit:
Rasa is a fast-casual Indian-inspired eatery known for its vibrant flavors and health-conscious menu. The great thing about Rasa is its customizable bowls, allowing you to create a meal that fits your keto diet perfectly. Plus, the restaurant focuses on fresh, whole ingredients, making it easy to avoid the hidden carbs that can derail your progress.
Keto-Friendly Dishes:
- Build-Your-Own Bowl: Start with a base of greens, add proteins like chicken, shrimp, or paneer, and top it off with healthy fats like avocado or coconut chutney.
- Tandoori Chicken with a side of roasted veggies
- Keto-Friendly Sauces: Coconut Curry or Cilantro Lime Yogurt
With a variety of fresh ingredients and bold spices, Rasa offers a unique twist on keto-friendly meals that aren’t your typical low-carb fare.
What Makes It Unique:
Rasa offers a refreshing take on fast-casual dining, combining convenience with flavorful, health-conscious meals. The ability to completely customize your meal is a big win for keto dieters who want to ensure they stay within their carb limits.
4. Farmers & Distillers
Location:
600 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, D.C. 20001
Hours: Monday – Sunday: 7:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Why You Should Visit:
Farmers & Distillers is another fantastic option for keto dieters in Washington, D.C. It’s part of the same restaurant group as Founding Farmers, so you can expect the same commitment to sustainability and high-quality ingredients. However, Farmers & Distillers offers a more diverse menu with a focus on American-Chinese fusion dishes, giving you a unique keto-friendly dining experience.
Keto-Friendly Dishes:
- Kung Pao Chicken (Ask for no rice) with extra veggies
- Grilled Pork Chop with Garlic Herb Butter
- Cauliflower Fried Rice with Shrimp
Farmers & Distillers also offers a delicious selection of house-made cocktails, many of which can be made keto-friendly by requesting sugar-free mixers.
What Makes It Unique:
The diverse menu at Farmers & Distillers sets it apart from other keto-friendly restaurants. Whether you’re in the mood for classic American fare or something with an international twist, you’ll find plenty of low-carb options here.
5. Del Mar
Location:
791 Wharf St SW, Washington, D.C. 20024
Hours: Monday – Sunday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Why You Should Visit:
Del Mar, located at The Wharf, offers a Mediterranean-inspired menu with a focus on fresh seafood and healthy fats—music to the ears of any keto dieter. The restaurant’s beautiful waterfront views and elegant décor make it an excellent choice for a romantic evening or a special celebration.
Keto-Friendly Dishes:
- Grilled Branzino with Olive Tapenade
- Octopus with Roasted Peppers and Olive Oil
- Mediterranean Salad with Feta (Skip the croutons)
The emphasis on fresh seafood and olive oil makes Del Mar a great fit for anyone following the keto diet. Plus, the variety of dishes ensures that you won’t feel limited by your dietary restrictions.
What Makes It Unique:
Del Mar offers a luxurious dining experience with a menu that aligns beautifully with the keto diet. Its Mediterranean flavors and focus on healthy fats make it an ideal choice for keto dieters who want to indulge in a gourmet meal without the carbs.
Comparative Table: Keto-Friendly Restaurants in Washington, D.C.
| Restaurant | Location | Keto Specialties | Atmosphere | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Founding Farmers | 1924 Pennsylvania Ave NW | Grilled Salmon, Ribeye Steak, Roasted Vegetable Bowl | Casual, Rustic | $$ |
| The Grill Room | 1050 31st St NW | Prime Ribeye, Pan-Seared Scallops, Lamb Chops | Upscale, Elegant | $$$ |
| Rasa | 1247 First St SE | Build-Your-Own Bowls, Tandoori Chicken | Fast-Casual | $ |
| Farmers & Distillers | 600 Massachusetts Ave NW | Kung Pao Chicken, Grilled Pork Chop, Cauliflower Rice | Casual, Modern | $$ |
| Del Mar | 791 Wharf St SW | Grilled Branzino, Octopus, Mediterranean Salad | Luxurious | $$$$ |
Whether you’re a D.C. local or just visiting, these restaurants offer delicious, keto-friendly options that ensure you can stick to your diet without sacrificing flavor. So, the next time you’re out in Washington, D.C., be sure to give these spots a try!
FAQs About Keto-Friendly Restaurants in Washington, D.C.
Are there keto-friendly restaurants in Washington, D.C.?
Yes, Washington, D.C. has several restaurants that offer keto-friendly menus or customizable options. Places like Founding Farmers, The Grill Room, and Rasa provide delicious low-carb meals that cater to keto dieters.
Can I find keto options at fast-casual restaurants in D.C.?
Absolutely! Fast-casual spots like Rasa allow you to build your own bowl with keto-friendly ingredients like greens, proteins, and healthy fats.
What should I look for on a menu to ensure it’s keto-friendly?
Look for meals rich in protein and healthy fats, like grilled meats, fish, and vegetables. Avoid dishes containing starches, grains, or sugars, and ask for substitutions where necessary.
Are there keto-friendly dessert options in Washington, D.C.?
Some restaurants offer keto-friendly desserts, like sugar-free cheesecake or chocolate mousse. Ask your server if they have any low-carb dessert options available.
Can I modify dishes to make them keto-friendly?
Yes, many restaurants are happy to accommodate dietary requests. You can ask for substitutions like swapping starchy sides for greens or leaving out high-carb ingredients like bread or rice.
