In honor of Valentine’s Day (okay, a day late — travel and work got the best of me!), let’s talk about the best fancy date nights in DC. I’ve now made it a tradition to share something date related each February. In the past, I’ve covered the Most Romantic Restaurants in DC and Day Date Ideas, but today it’s all about an excuse to get dressed up.
The Best Fancy Date Nights in DC
An Evening at the Kennedy Center
There’s nothing more iconic than an evening spent watching a show at the Kennedy Center. Get as dressed up as you’d like, you’ll see plenty of people dressed to the nines while they watch the ballet. Grab drinks at the Watergate beforehand.
Photo: Lauren Louise Collective
Drinks at a DC Classic
I love a night out at classic DC bar like the Round Robin bar or Quill. Grab a few drinks in one of these cozy and old-school spots, then stroll around the monuments at night.
A Tasting Menu Experience
There are so many incredible Michelin-star restaurants and tasting menu experiences throughout the DC area. I have several on my wish list, but the ones I’ve been to (and would go back to!) are Little Pearl, Gravitas, and Masseria.
Staycation at the Line Hotel
More trendy than fancy, but a fabulous date night. Stay at The Line DC for an evening. Grab dinner nearby beforehand, perhaps at Lapis, then grab drinks at the bar before retreating to your minimalist, stylish room for the night.
Venture Out to the Inn at Little Washington
This is the only date night on the list that I haven’t yet done. Heading out to the small town of Washington, VA to the Inn at Little Washington, the only three Michelin star restaurant, is a bucket list item. It’s supposed to be just as fabulous as the hype would have you believe.
I’d also recommend the tasting menu at Restaurant Eve–to die for!