There are many restaurants near Union Station Washington DC. If you are looking to get a bite before or after getting on a train, there are many food places around Union Station DC. Let’s take a look. From restaurants where you can comfortable dine in to more casual spots, here is a complete guide to the best restaurants near Union Station in Washington DC.
Restaurants Near Union Station Washington DC: Sit Down & Dine In
Union Station is one of the largest and busiest train stations on the east coast. While the lower level of Union Station has plenty of dining options, you may want to explore the many quality food places that are an easy walking distance from the train station. First, let’s take a look at some of the sit down dining options close to Union Station.
Laos In Town – Michelin Bib Gourmand List
Laos in Town brings the flavors of Laos to Washington D.C. with their range of hot and flavorsome dishes. The restaurant’s rice-based meals, comfort soups, and vegetarian options cater to various dietary preferences, complemented by attentive service.
This exceptional restaurant, which is part of the growing H street area dining scene, has been featured on Michelin’s Bib Gourmand List for its delicious food. If you are a fan of Asian flavors and cuisine, this restaurant is just a couple of blocks from Union Station.
Walk Time From Union Station: 15 minutes
Taxi Time: 5 minutes
Bistro Bis – Open For Breakfast, Lunch, Happy Hour & Dinner
Bistro Bis is located in the swanky Kimpton George Hotel. This hotel is just a stone’s throw away from Union Station. When you leave the waiting area of Union Station and head toward the main exit / entrance, you will want to head to the right. From here it is a quick walk to Bistro Bis.
Walk Time From Union Station: 7 minute walk
Taxi Time: Faster to walk in most cases, but in case of harsh weather, it is a quick 2 minute drive
The Dubliner – Pub Style Historic Spot
The Dubliner is a German-focused gastropub with a great patio for outdoor dining. There is a varied beer selection, warm ambiance, and a very convenient location being just a short walk from Union Station. If you are exiting the main hall of Union Station and see the U.S. Capitol building in front of you, the Dubliner will be just off the right hand side.
Walk Time From Union Station: 5 minutes
Taxi Time: Better to walk as it is just across the street from the station
Cafe Fili – Modern Mediterranean
This restaurant is known for its Mediterranean, New American, and Middle Eastern cuisine. Cafe Fili has established itself as a warm gathering place. Its inviting atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for both old friends and new acquaintances to enjoy a meal together. Cafe Fili’s menu includes a range of Mediterranean dishes that have gained popularity at its original location in Baltimore, Maryland.
Cafe Fili is open seven days a week and is very quick walk from Union Station. To get to Cafe Fili, exit the main hall of Union Station and walk left. The restaurant is just a few minutes away.
Walk Time From Union Station: 8 minutes
Taxi Time: 4 minutes
The Monocle – Classic American
The Monocle is a renowned American cocktail bar and a popular location for political fundraisers on Capitol Hill. Known for its rich history, it also has a diverse menu and is particularly recognized for its steaks.
With its elegant interiors and inventive drinks, this restaurant has a unique experience for visitors.
Walk Time From Union Station: 9 minute walk
Taxi Time: Faster to walk in most cases, but in case of harsh weather, it is a quick 4 minute drive
Bistro Du Jour – Open at 630 AM On Weekdays
Need something to eat early in the morning near Union Station in DC? Then head to Bistro Du Jour, which opens at 630 AM on weekdays. This Parisian style restaurant is located on the ground floor of the Royal Sonesta Hotel. It is the second Bistro Du Jour (the first one is the Wharf area of DC), and part of an ambitious plan by the Knead Hospitality Group to expand its footprint in the nation’s capital.
Walk Time From Union Station: 9 minute walk
Taxi Time: Faster to walk in most cases, but in case of harsh weather, it is a quick 3 minute drive
Nostra Cucina – Classic Italian
Nostra Cucina is an Italian restaurant known for its delicious pasta and pizza options. The restaurant has a cozy wine room alongside very friendly service, making it a favorite choice for anyone who wants to have authentic Italian cuisine in an inviting atmosphere.
When you leave the main hall of Union Station, you will want to exit and make a left. From the main hall of Union Station, Nostra Cucina is a quick walk.
Walk Time From Union Station: 10 minute walk
Taxi Time: 4 minutes
Bistro Cacao – Classic French
Bistro Cacao brings a bit of French charm to Washington D.C., with classic dishes like bagels and salade niçoise. Visitors can also enjoy the restaurant’s delicious French onion soup, which is one of their most popular dishes. The ambiance is that of a small quaint Parisian bistro.
Walk Time From Union Station: 11 minutes
Taxi Time: 4 minutes
Cafe Berlin – German Restaurant With Outdoor Seating
Cafe Berlin is right next to Bistro Cacao. It is a German restaurant with a charming patio for outdoor dining. Located in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, the restaurant is housed on the ground floor of three joined townhouses, featuring outdoor dining areas in their front yards that transform into a Biergarten during warm weather.
This location offers a convenient walking distance to both Union Station and the U.S. Capitol, making it a popular spot for politicians, congressional staffers, and visitors to the area
Walk Time From Union Station: 11 minutes
Taxi Time: 4 minutes
L’Ardente – Modern Italian
L’Ardente was a real hot spot when it first opened. The expansive restaurant was nearly impossible to get a reservation for many nights of the week. However, there is a large bar area and if you get there close to when the restaurant opens, you should be able to grab a spot.
When you leave the main hall of Union Station, you will want to exit the main hall and make a right. From there walk down Massachusetts Avenue until you see the restaurant on your left.
Walk Time From Union Station: 13 minute walk
Taxi Time: 4 minutes
Ethiopic Restaurant – Ethiopian Cuisine
Ethiopic Restaurant brings the rich flavors of Ethiopian and African cuisine to the area, offering a diverse menu with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. Warm and satisfying, the dining experience here caters to a broad range of preferences.
There are plenty of options here for vegetarians, if this is one of your food requirements. This restaurant is closed on certain days of the week so be sure to check the website before heading over.
Walk Time From Union Station: 14 minutes
Taxi Time: 5 minutes
El Presidente – New & Notable Mexican
Opened in 2023, El Presidente is a trendy Mexican restaurant by Stephen Starr. Stephen Starr is a famous restauranteur who has many great restaurants up and down the east coast. El Presidente is located in Union Market which is a short taxi ride.
If this is your first time in Washington DC, Union Market is a great place to check out. There are many food options here aside from El Presidente.
Walk Time From Union Station: 24 minutes
Taxi Time: 8 minutes
Restaurants Near Union Station Washington DC: Quick & Casual
If you are in a rush, then there are plenty of options to have a quick bite near Union Station. There are many restaurants that are quick inside the station itself like Shake Shack and Uno Pizzeria & Grill, but there are also tons restaurants within a couple blocks of the train station.
Ebenezers Coffeehouse – Coffee & Pastries
This is a good place for coffee enthusiasts, and anyone who may want to get an hour of work in before catching a train. Ebenezers Coffeehouse is a friendly neighborhood spot where you can not only enjoy coffee, but also some quiet time to return emails or take a call. The coffeehouse also offers a selection of breakfast options for a quick and satisfying start to the day.
Walk Time From Union Station: 7 minutes
Taxi Time: 3 minutes
Indigo – Casual Indian Eats
Indigo serves a mix of traditional and modern Indian dishes in a cozy and casual setting. The restaurant has a variety of vegetarian selections. In the warmer months, you can also enjoy a casual meal on their outdoor patio.
The restaurant is closed on Sunday, so be sure to check their website before heading over to this popular Indian restaurant. It is a short walk from Union Station. The best way to access this restaurant is to exit Union Station near the Union Station parking garage which is towards the opposite end of the main hall of the train station.
Walk Time From Union Station: 13 minutes
Taxi Time: 5 minutes
Andy’s Pizza – NY Style Pizza
Andy’s Pizza is by far one of the best casual pizza chains in the DC area. Andy’s has expanded to have many locations in the DMV from Virginia and Maryland as well as in Downtown DC. You can order pizza by the slice or order a pie.
Walk Time From Union Station: 18 minutes
Taxi Time: 6 minutes
Union Kitchen – Grab & Go
Union Kitchen is part kitchen part grocery store. It features many local brands and also has a counter where you can get some of the fresh food that they make every day. It is just a block away from Ebenezer’s Coffee House
Walk Time From Union Station: 9 minutes
Taxi Time: 5 minutes
Red Bear Brewing Co – American Gastropub
This American gastropub offers a range of comfort food and drinks to satisfy your taste buds. With a spacious patio for outdoor dining, Red Bear Brewing Co provides great service and a relaxed atmosphere. Vegetarians can enjoy the variety of vegetarian offerings on the menu along with the extensive drinks selection.
Walk Time From Union Station: 19 minutes
Taxi Time: 6 minutes
Restaurants Near Union Station Washington DC: Summary
Whether you are visiting for culture trips or to see the U.S. Capitol, Union Station is a great place to arrive. The beautiful arcade outside the station as well as the beauty of the main hall with its marble floors are a stunning welcome to the nation’s capital. There are many places to eat that are near Union Station Washington DC including Laos In Town, Bistro Bis, The Dubliner, El Presidente, Bistro Cacao, Nosta Cucina, The Monocle, and Indigo.
