Le Diplomate
✨ Vibe
A transportive Parisian brasserie that blends the shimmering romance of a "Midnight in Paris" dream with the vibrant, high-energy pulse of D.C.’s Logan Circle.
🍸 Best For
Romantic date nights, award-winning weekend brunch, late-night Bordeaux, and sophisticated neighborhood networking.
🔥 Highlights
- Recipient of the 2025 RAMMY award for Best Brunch in Washington, D.C., celebrated for its exquisite menu and iconic impact on the city's dining scene.
- Masterfully executed French classics including signature steak frites, a decadent duck ragu, and a world-class French onion soup that rivals the best in New York City.
- Exceptional service and a sophisticated 14th Street atmosphere that makes it a premier destination for both special occasions and high-end social encounters.
ℹ️ Need to Know
- Reservations are highly recommended and can be booked via Resy to secure a spot in the elegant dining room or on the vibrant covered patio.
- The bar is an excellent choice for a solo "main character" moment or a spontaneous glass of champagne in a bustling, chic environment.
🔄 Weekly Events
📰 In the News
Missed Connection – Derek at Le Diplomate
Le Diplomate's bar served as the setting for a late-night social encounter and subsequent missed connection post involving two patrons on November 21, 2025. The venue is featured as a prominent 14th Street destination for late-night drinks and neighborhood networking.
Exclusive: Le Dip streatery to come down as D.C. crackdown reshapes outdoor dining
Le Diplomate is removing its signature outdoor "chalet" dining structures in response to new Washington D.C. regulations and increased fees for streateries. While the restaurant's parent company, Starr Restaurants, is dismantling the current setups to comply with the city's shift toward uniform, open-air designs, they remain open to exploring future outdoor dining options under the new permanent program.
Cider, Costumes & Charm: Halloween Magic Brews at Le Diplomate
Le Diplomate hosts a seasonal Halloween celebration on 14th Street featuring a signature 'Hot Cider Cart' that serves complimentary cider and fresh-made mini donuts. The event includes a multi-category costume competition for families, individuals, and pets, highlighting the restaurant's Parisian charm and community atmosphere.
UNITE HERE Local 25: Pointing to Union Busting and Sexual Harassment Allegations at DC Restaurants, Restaurant Workers Call for Babbo Boycott on Opening Day
Le Diplomate is one of several D.C. restaurants targeted by a UNITE HERE Local 25 boycott following allegations of union-busting and reports of sexual harassment. The labor campaign, which has been endorsed by 80 members of Congress, aims to pressure ownership into voluntarily recognizing the workers’ union.
D.C. Honors Labor Day With Nationwide Campaign for Federal Workers
Le Diplomate became a central focal point for labor activism during a 2025 Labor Day rally as workers and unions picketed the French café to demand livable wages and the right to unionize. Employees at the 14th Street NW venue shared testimonies regarding workplace mistreatment and called for improved safety and respect within the establishment.
Recent Reviews from Google
The whole experience was stellar. Pablo was our server, and it was truly the best service we’ve had in Washington. He was knowledgeable about the menu, offered fantastic recommendations, and made our...
Le Diplomate is an incredible spot for date night. It’s right on 14th Street and perfectly captures that classic European brasserie atmosphere. It’s definitely on the pricier side, but absolutely...
My experience at this restaurant was excellent with the food and the service. The decor of the place was very pretty. The food was delicious. The coffee was super delicious, with an intense and tasty...
My lunch at Le Diplomate in D.C. was truly exquisite. The atmosphere is authentically French and wonderfully charming. It is full of energy, conversation, and a fun vibe. Since it was a gorgeous day...
Midnight in Paris, but Make It D.C. There’s something about Le Diplomate that makes you believe in romance again — even if it’s just between you and your glass of Bordeaux. The lights shimmer like a...
