The Van Ness neighborhood is full of hidden gems and is home to a quaint dining scene. From Asian fare to Italian comfort food, the area has something for everyone. We’ve rounded up our favorite spots to eat and drink around our apartments on Connecticut Avenue for you to consider the next time you’re going out to eat!

Have any other suggestions? Leave them in the comments!

BREAKFAST 

Bread Furst – 4434 Connecticut Avenue Northwest, Washington, DC 20008 (2 minute walk)

This traditional bakery has become a staple in the Van Ness neighborhood. Boasting fresh loaves of bread, delectable pastries, and breakfast sandwiches – this is the perfect spot for a quick bite to eat or spending a relaxing morning sipping coffee on their spacious patio.

Starbucks – 4250 Connecticut Avenue Northwest, Washington, DC 20008 (4 minute walk)

Conveniently located across from the Van Ness Capitol Bikeshare dock and Metro entrances, Starbucks is a great breakfast option for caffeinating before commuting to work. You can even download the Starbucks app and place a drink order before you walk out of your apartment door, ensuring a seamless coffee run and less time in line.

LUNCH

Pho 14 – 4201 Connecticut Avenue Northwest, Washington, DC 20008 (5 minute walk)

Pho is a traditional Vietnamese soup served with rice noodles, aromatic spices, and your choice of meat and/or veggies – perfect for warming up on chilly days. Pho 14 also serves up salads, stir-fry, and sandwiches for days when you can’t take the DC heat.

Potbelly Sandwich Shop – 4300 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008 (2 minute walk)

You’ll find toasty sandwiches and hearty salads at this corner sandwich store. We love that there are plenty of vegetarian options here as well! If you’re craving something sweet to go with your lunch, order up a fresh baked cookie or hand-dipped milkshake.

HAPPY HOUR

Cactus Cantina – 3300 Wisconsin Avenue Northwest, Washington, DC 20016 (28 minute walk or 11 minute bike ride)

While it might be a little bit further from Park Van Ness, we promise that the margaritas will be worth it! This spacious Tex-mex restaurant keeps their house-made chips and salsa flowing while you enjoy specials like $5 margaritas, $3.50 drafts beers, and $4 glasses of sangria. Happy hour is Monday – Friday from 3 PM – 6 PM.

Acacia Bistro – 4340 Connecticut Avenue Northwest, Washington, DC 20008 (1 minute walk)

Sip on a glass of hand-selected wine while nibbling on a charcuterie and cheese board at this cozy Mediterranean café. Happy hour runs from 4:00 PM – 6:30 PM and includes discounted wine, beer, and small bites.

DINNER

Sushi Para – 4221 Connecticut Avenue Northwest, Washington, DC 20008 (5 minute walk)

Unlimited, hand rolled sushi for $19.99 per person? Sign us up! If you’re in the mood for a night in, Sushi Para also offers takeaway specials and online ordering for seamless transactions.

Tesoro – 4400 Connecticut Avenue Northwest, Washington, DC 20008 (2 minute walk)

Located directly across from Park Van Ness, Tesoro offers upscale Italian fare at affordable prices. The intimate dining room lends itself well to date night, but the kid-friendly menu also makes this a go-to destination for a family outing.

COMING SOON 

Soapstone Market – 4465 Connecticut Avenue Northwest, Washington, DC 20008 (1 minute walk)

Nestled on the first floor of Park Van Ness, the multi-concept market will feature grab and go items, a butcher, seafood, and deli counters, a coffee bar, and a wine and beer bar – talk about a one stop shop!

Sfoglina – 4445 Connecticut Avenue Northwest, Washington, DC 20008 (1 minute walk)

Chef Fabio Trabocchi will be bringing his talents to the Van Ness neighborhood in the form of a pasta-focused restaurant this fall. The Italian restaurant will also feature antipasti, salads, meat and fish dishes, and dessert.