Washington's Best Take Out [Updated 2025]

I’ve dived deep into the vibrant culinary scene here, savoring bites from 12 of the top takeout spots that truly capture the essence of our city. Each meal was a delicious adventure, and I can't wait to share my favorites with you!

You might be wondering why you should trust my taste buds. Well, not only have I indulged in countless flavors, but I’ve also chatted with chefs and locals alike, soaking up all the insider tips. So, whether you’re craving comfort food or something a bit more adventurous, I’ve got the scoop on where to find the most mouthwatering takeout that’ll have you coming back for more. Let’s dig in!

Pisco y Nazca Ceviche Gastrobar

Highlights
Outstanding fresh ingredients
Impressive ceviche sampler
Tender and flavorful octopus
Attentive and kind service
Stylish decor and ambiance

Nestled in the heart of the city, Pisco y Nazca Ceviche Gastrobar is a vibrant gem that truly elevates the take-out scene. From the moment I placed my order, I was struck by their outstanding fresh ingredients. Each dish carries a burst of flavor that transports you directly to the coast of Peru.

The ceviche sampler is a must-try, showcasing an array of delightful varieties that highlight the restaurant's dedication to quality and freshness. I was particularly smitten by the tender and flavorful octopus—it was cooked to perfection, balancing tenderness with a satisfying char. Even while dining at home, I could almost feel the ocean breeze!

What truly makes the experience shine is the attentive and kind service. Upon picking up my order, the staff exuded warmth that made me feel like a valued guest. The stylish decor and ambiance of the restaurant are evident even in take-out; I felt a little piece of that atmosphere accompanying my meal.

In a city bustling with options, Pisco y Nazca stands out as a stellar choice for anyone craving exquisite Peruvian cuisine, making it a top pick in Washington's diverse take-out landscape.

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Le Diplomate

Highlights
Amazing French onion soup
MUST HAVE dinner reservations
Busy and vibrant atmosphere
Phenomenal food quality
Decadent creme brulee

Le Diplomate is not just a destination; it's a delightful escape to the heart of France, right in Washington! As I eagerly awaited my takeout order, the bustling, vibrant atmosphere enveloped me; you can almost taste the camaraderie in the air. I must stress that if you're planning to grab that amazing French onion soup, dinner reservations are a MUST—it’s the perfect cozy treat for a chilly evening!

Once I unwrapped my feast, I was greeted with a stunning presentation that only hinted at the phenomenal food quality within. The soup, rich with perfectly caramelized onions and oozy cheese, was a joyful embrace for my senses. And just when I thought it couldn’t get better, there was the decadent crème brûlée—a true masterpiece with its velvety custard and crackling sugar top that shattered like a dream.

In a city overflowing with options, Le Diplomate's takeout has carved out a special place in my heart and stomach. If you’re craving a taste of France without leaving your home, this establishment delivers—both in flavor and experience! Bon appétit!

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Tortino Restaurant

Highlights
Fantastic Italian cuisine
Quick and friendly service
Enjoyable dining experience
Beautiful surrounding area
Notable 4-course meals

Tortino Restaurant is a delightful gem for anyone seeking fantastic Italian cuisine in Washington! As I strolled in, the warm ambiance instantly enveloped me, setting the stage for what would soon be a culinary adventure. Their quick and friendly service had me feeling like an old friend rather than just another customer.

Now, let’s talk food! The highlight of my meal was the notable 4-course option—a true feast for the senses! Each course was more tantalizing than the last, showcasing the chef’s expertise and creativity. From the rich flavors of the antipasti to the perfectly cooked pasta that danced in a sumptuous sauce, every dish celebrated the essence of Italian cuisine.

What made my experience even more enjoyable was the beautiful surrounding area, perfect for a leisurely stroll while waiting for my takeout. As I exited with my savory treasures, I couldn’t help but smile, knowing that Tortino has carved out a special place in my takeout repertoire. Whether for an intimate dinner or a delightful solo meal, this restaurant is certainly a standout in the Washington dining scene. Bravo, Tortino!

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SURA Restaurant

Highlights
Excellent Black Mushrooms
Secret menu with Chicken Curry
Fast kitchen service
Traditional with elevated flavors
Gratuity automatically included

SURA Restaurant in Washington is a true gem for takeout enthusiasts! From the moment I placed my order, I felt the vibrant pulse of traditional flavors dancing in the air. Their excellent black mushrooms are a must-try; they’re cooked to perfection, exuding rich umami goodness that will have you dreaming about them long after the last bite.

What really sets SURA apart is their secret menu featuring the irresistible chicken curry. Imagine tender chicken simmered to flavorful perfection, making each spoonful a delight. The kitchen service is impressively quick, meaning your mouthwatering creations are ready before you can finish scrolling through the menu!

I also appreciate that gratuity is automatically included, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the last-minute math conundrum. This added touch reflects SURA's dedication to providing a seamless dining experience.

All in all, SURA Restaurant has earned its place as one of the best takeout spots in Washington. It’s a fusion of traditional tastes and elevated flavors that will leave you yearning for more. Don't miss out on this culinary treasure; your taste buds will thank you!

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Zaytinya

Highlights
Eastern Mediterranean small plates
Complimentary warm pita bread
Refreshing non-alcoholic drinks
Thoughtfully crafted dishes
Bright and welcoming atmosphere

Zaytinya is a hidden gem in Washington, where Eastern Mediterranean flavors dance in your taste buds' imagination. From the moment you unwrap your takeout, a delightful aroma wafts out—it's like an invitation to savor each bite. The complimentary warm pita bread is a delectable starter, perfect for scooping up the vibrant dips.

I was blown away by how thoughtfully each dish is crafted. The small plates offer a variety of textures and flavors, with standout options like the zesty hummus or their surprisingly playful spicy lamb meatballs. The freshness in every ingredient shines, making each bite an exquisite treat.

What makes Zaytinya even better is their carefully curated selection of refreshing non-alcoholic drinks that pair beautifully with the dishes. I honestly found myself enjoying these just as much as the food!

With a bright and welcoming atmosphere, Zaytinya elevates takeout dining, making it more than just a meal—it’s an experience waiting to happen in the comfort of your home. So, if you're in Washington and craving something substantial yet playful, Zaytinya should be at the top of your list!

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Georgia Brown's

Highlights
Warm and welcoming atmosphere
Impressive and prompt service
Complimentary champagne offered
Talented live jazz music
Memorable anniversary celebrations

Georgia Brown's Review

During my recent culinary adventure, I found myself at Georgia Brown's, an absolute gem in Washington that truly elevates the takeout experience. Upon entering, the atmosphere is warm and inviting, beckoning you to enjoy the delightful Southern inspirations in every bite. What caught my attention immediately was their impeccable and prompt service; it’s like having a personal waiter even while getting takeout!

As if that weren’t enough, I was pleasantly surprised with a glass of complimentary champagne to brighten my day – talk about a classy touch! The live jazz music wafting through the air added a delightful charm, making it feel like an occasion rather than just picking up dinner.

The food itself? Unforgettable. From savory gumbo to mouth-watering shrimp and grits, Georgia Brown’s captures the essence of Southern cuisine in a way that you can savor even from the comfort of home. After indulging in their full-flavored fare, I could easily see why they are a popular choice for anniversary celebrations and special meals. If you're searching for exceptional takeout, Georgia Brown's should be at the top of your list!

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Moon Rabbit by Kevin Tien

Highlights
Accommodating staff
Bold and creative dishes
High-end flavor combinations
Excellent service
Relaxed atmosphere

Moon Rabbit is a culinary gem that serenades your taste buds with a playful yet elegant fusion of flavors. From the moment I placed my order, I was met with accommodating staff who infused a warm welcome into the entire process. The atmosphere, while relaxed, buzzed with excitement about the bold culinary creations we were all about to indulge in.

Upon tasting my meal, I was completely captivated by the high-end flavor combinations that Kevin Tien has so masterfully crafted. Each dish felt like a little journey; the textures were impeccable and the creativity behind the food was evident. The attention to detail and artistry were truly commendable, making it not just a meal but an experience.

What really stood out was the commitment to excellent service. Even while enjoying my takeout at home, I could feel the care that went into crafting my meal. It was evident that Moon Rabbit prioritizes not just food, but the overall dining experience—even in takeout. If you’re looking to elevate your dinner night, Moon Rabbit is a must-try. You’ll find yourself reveling in flavors that dance across the palate, leaving you eager for your next bite!

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Bistro Aracosia

Highlights
Rich, flavorful Afghan cuisine
Delicious dumpling assortment
Amazing Cardamon Milk Cake
Excellent customer service
Inviting and cool ambiance

Stepping into Bistro Aracosia felt like discovering a culinary treasure, and trust me when I say, their take out is nothing short of spectacular. From the moment I placed my order, I was greeted with excellent customer service that instantly made me feel at home. The aroma of rich, flavorful Afghan cuisine wafted through the air, tempting my taste buds even before the food arrived.

I dove into their dumpling assortment, and with each bite, I found myself enchanted by the explosion of flavors. These were not just dumplings; they were little pillows of joy! But the real star of the show was their amazing Cardamon Milk Cake. I can only describe it as a delightful symphony of spices, perfectly sweetened and utterly irresistible — the ideal finale to my meal.

What truly sets Bistro Aracosia apart is its inviting ambiance, which translates beautifully even in their take-out packaging, making each dish feel special. If you're on the hunt for the best take out in Washington, do yourself a favor and indulge in the exquisite offerings from Bistro Aracosia. You won't regret it!

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Logan Tavern

Highlights
Outstanding Service
Amazing Fish & Chips
In-House Bloody Mary
Fun and Friendly Staff
Perfectly Cooked Salmon

Logan Tavern truly lives up to its reputation as a favorite go-to spot in Washington for takeout. The moment I placed my order, the outstanding service from the friendly staff made me feel right at home. I decided to indulge in their amazing fish & chips—a classic choice that I’m known to obsess over. The fish was not only perfectly cooked, but the batter was light and crispy, creating a delightful crunch that was music to my taste buds.

To complement my meal, I couldn’t resist their renowned in-house Bloody Mary, which was a refreshing twist—exactly what I needed. I could tell that the staff put real care into every detail, from the seasoning to the presentation.

I also tried the perfectly cooked salmon, which was succulent and served with a side of zesty lemon that brightened each bite. Overall, my experience at Logan Tavern left me grinning like a Cheshire cat. If you’re hunting for the best takeout in Washington, be sure to swing by—we all deserve a little culinary delight in our lives!

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Grazie Nonna

Highlights
Super Servers
Authentic Italian Cuisine
Quick and Friendly Service
Must-Try Sunday Sauce Pasta
Clean and Inviting Ambiance

Review of Grazie Nonna

Stepping into Grazie Nonna felt like walking into a charming Italian kitchen run by a beloved grandmother. The atmosphere is not only inviting, but it’s also refreshingly clean—no messy counters here! You can sense the passion the chefs have for their craft, and that’s a beautiful thing when you’re craving authentic Italian cuisine.

Now, let’s talk about the servers. They are genuinely friendly, making the whole experience feel warm and personal. I was greeted with a smile and was impressed by their quick service—I barely had time to check my phone before my meal was ready!

I couldn’t resist trying their must-try Sunday Sauce Pasta. Let me tell you, it was a celebration of flavors! Rich and savory, this dish transported me straight to the Italian countryside. The pasta was perfectly al dente, soaked with deep, comforting flavors that made my taste buds sing.

In the grand scheme of take-out options in Washington, Grazie Nonna is a gem, marrying efficiency with heart. If you’re searching for mouthwatering comfort food, look no further!

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The Red Hen

Highlights
Cozy, intimate atmosphere
Exceptional pasta dishes
Friendly, attentive service
Must-try chocolate hazelnut cake
Popular, recommend reservations

During my recent culinary adventure at The Red Hen, I found myself enchanted by its cozy, intimate atmosphere that welcomes patrons like an old friend. As I perused the menu, I couldn’t resist diving into their exceptional pasta dishes. Each bite was a delightful experience, bursting with fresh flavors that revealed the care and passion behind every plate.

The friendly and attentive service further elevated my visit. The staff clearly takes pride in their work, making every guest feel special—like family in their inviting space. And let’s not forget the pièce de résistance: the must-try chocolate hazelnut cake. Decadently rich and oh-so-indulgent, it was the perfect sweet conclusion to my meal.

While I didn’t make a reservation this time, I highly recommend doing so since The Red Hen is quite popular among locals and visitors alike. If you’re looking for a delightful takeout experience, I can't recommend this eatery enough. It beautifully captures the essence of Washington’s dining scene—where food feels like a warm hug on a plate. Don’t miss out on this gem; your taste buds will thank you!

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Dolan Uyghur Restaurant

My recent visit to Dolan Uyghur Restaurant was a delightful culinary adventure! Nestled in a lively neighborhood, this gem serves up hearty dishes that dance with flavor. The lamb skewers are a must-try—juicy and perfectly spiced, they made my taste buds sing! I also adored the hand-pulled noodles, which come with a delightful chew and paired beautifully with the rich sauce. For those craving a unique experience, the kebabs offer an aromatic thrill. With quick service and a friendly vibe, Dolan Uyghur is a top contender in my quest for the best takeout in Washington. Don’t miss it!

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