Contemporary and casual, Westend Bistro is the hotel restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton, Washington, D.C. Popular with guests and locals alike, the bistro features traditional American and Mediterranean dishes made with market-fresh ingredients. Favorites include strip steaks and short ribs along with more inventive dishes like pan-seared skate wing.
The décor is sleek yet warm; so the updated bistro is well suited to groups of businessmen and intimate dinners à deux alike, and in warm weather, the patio is a popular draw. Weekday happy hours draw a younger local crowd.
While the restaurant is no longer helmed by acclaimed chef Eric Ripert as of January 2013, Westend Bistro still offers an exquisite dining experience.
The décor is sleek yet warm; so the updated bistro is well suited to groups of businessmen and intimate dinners à deux alike, and in warm weather, the patio is a popular draw. Weekday happy hours draw a younger local crowd.
While the restaurant is no longer helmed by acclaimed chef Eric Ripert as of January 2013, Westend Bistro still offers an exquisite dining experience.
Our Inspector's Highlights
- The menu at Westend Bistro offers modern American versions of classic French bistro fare. The restaurant’s varied menu provides lots of options so that it is easy to find just the thing you are in the mood for.
- The service at the Ritz-Carlton’s signature eatery is pleasant thanks to the restaurant’s knowledgeable, friendly and attentive staff.
- The best tables at this Washington D.C. restaurant are the raised booths along the wall by the windows. The large glass panels flood the space with natural light.
- The interior design of Westend Bistro is modern and urban with dark wood furniture complemented by orange-red accents. This cozy décor makes it easy to settle in and feel comfortable.
- This Washington, D.C. restaurant is located just blocks from the city’s business district, the Golden Triangle, making it an excellent place for after-work drinks or a pre-event dinner. Head here for happy hour to enjoy discounted sips and bites on the outdoor patio, or at the bar if the weather isn't agreeable.
Things to Know
- The American bistro serves breakfast, lunch and dinner throughout the week, but the hours vary depending on the day. Check the restaurant's website ahead of your visit to avoid disappointment.
- You should make reservations for dinner at Westend, although lunch and the popular happy hour are usually open to walk-in visitors.
- The dress code at Westend Bistro in The Ritz-Carlton, Washington, D.C. is generally rather casual, and guests will be comfortable in business casual attire.
The Food
- The restaurant serves American bistro-style food. That means you can have a high-grade burger with spicy fries just as easily as you can order halibut ceviche or Mediterranean-inspired octopus.
- The menu at Westend Bistro also comes equipped with lighter options that are featured in the Bistro Lite section of the menu.
- The restaurant has a variety of seafood brought in daily and butchered in-house so the fish dishes are delicious and super fresh. Expect to find items such as PEI mussels, day boat scallops, and wild Atlantic halibut.
- Don't skip dessert. The menu features elevated fan favorites, such as a Gin Campari Sour Popsicle or Mocha Blackout Cake "On the Rocks" with a boozy twist of Irish coffee granita and chocolate-rum sauce.
- For an extra special night out, reserve a spot at Westend Bistro's Chef's Table. The intimate experience (there are only six seats) allows you to enjoy a completely customized menu while you engage with the executive sous chef.
The Drinks
- Whenever you visit the bar, you will find a good selection of wines and beers, but the house-made cocktails are spectacular.
- For a light and refreshing sip, try Bee's Knees made with lavender tea-infused gin, fresh citrus, honey and bitters.
- Get a taste of fall with the Smoked Boulevardier (rye whiskey, Campari, vermouth, and cherry and orange bitters) or the Smoked Maple Old Fashioned (maple bourbon, vanilla rooibos tea syrup, brandied cherries and orange bitters).
- Try a local brew from makers like DC Brau and 3 Stars Brewing Company.
Amenities
Bar
Business casual
Dinner
Kid friendly
Lunch
Private dining
Reservations recommended 
Takeout
Valet parking
Getting There
