Headed to a show at The Anthem, Washington D.C.’s premier concert venue? You’re in for a fantastic night of music, but you’re also going to need some sustenance to keep your energy up! The Anthem, nestled within the vibrant Wharf district, is a hub of activity and excitement, and thankfully, its surrounding area boasts a diverse and delicious culinary scene. Forget about grabbing a sad arena hot dog – The Wharf offers everything from quick, casual bites to upscale dining experiences, ensuring you have the perfect meal before or after rocking out. Navigating these options can be overwhelming, which is why this guide is here to help you find the best places to eat near The Anthem.
Whether you’re craving casual eats to keep you moving, a pre-show cocktail to get you in the mood, or a celebratory dinner to end the night on a high note, The Anthem’s location at The Wharf offers a diverse range of culinary experiences to satisfy every taste and budget. Get ready to explore the delicious possibilities awaiting you just steps away from your favorite concert venue!
Exploring Culinary Options Near The Anthem
The Wharf, where The Anthem is located, is a dynamic neighborhood brimming with restaurants, bars, and cafes. From grabbing a quick slice to savoring a multi-course meal, the area caters to various appetites and preferences. So, let’s dive into the different categories of restaurants available to make planning your pre- or post-show dining experience a breeze.
Casual Dining and Quick Bites
Sometimes, you just need something quick and easy before heading into a concert. Maybe you’re running late, or maybe you want to save your appetite for the show itself. Whatever the reason, The Wharf has several casual dining spots perfect for a speedy and satisfying meal.
Consider &pizza, a popular D.C. chain known for its customizable oblong pizzas. You can build your own from a variety of toppings, or choose one of their signature creations. It’s fast, affordable, and undeniably tasty, making it a solid pre-show choice. Shake Shack is another great option for a classic American burger, fries, and milkshake. It’s a reliable and crowd-pleasing choice for a reason. Rappahannock Oyster Bar also offers casual oyster options. While they have formal dining, they are a raw bar area where you can grab a quick snack while standing or sitting at the bar. If you are more of a sweet tooth person, then District Donut will provide you with the perfect dessert to end the meal with!
These spots are ideal for a quick bite without sacrificing flavor or quality. They’re all conveniently located near The Anthem, allowing you to maximize your time and minimize your stress.
Seafood Restaurants: A Wharf Staple
Given its waterfront location, it should come as no surprise that The Wharf boasts a variety of excellent seafood restaurants. Whether you’re looking for fresh oysters, grilled fish, or a decadent seafood platter, you’ll find it here.
Del Mar is an upscale Spanish seafood restaurant offering a truly elegant dining experience. With stunning waterfront views and a menu brimming with flavorful dishes, it’s perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner before the show. But, as mentioned previously, Rappahannock Oyster Bar also provides fresh and high-quality oysters. While they do have formal dining options, you can eat casually at the bar. Pearl Street Warehouse provides a unique dining experience with the options of grabbing a bite to eat and seeing another music performance. The menu is more American food and seafood, but it provides a classic seafood location to eat at while at The Wharf. Brighton SW1 is a restaurant inspired by British culture, but provides seafood dishes along with a water view for a beautiful and delicious experience.
These restaurants showcase the best of the sea, offering fresh ingredients, expertly prepared dishes, and beautiful waterfront settings. They are perfect for those looking to indulge in a memorable seafood experience before or after a concert at The Anthem.
Upscale Dining for Special Occasions
Perhaps you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or just want to treat yourself to a luxurious meal. The Wharf has several upscale dining options that will elevate your evening.
Del Mar, already mentioned for its seafood, deserves another mention for its overall fine dining experience. With its impeccable service, sophisticated ambiance, and exquisite Spanish cuisine, it’s a top choice for a special occasion. Moon Rabbit offers modern Vietnamese cuisine in a stylish setting. The innovative dishes are beautifully presented and bursting with flavor, making it a truly unique and memorable dining experience. Officina brings the taste of Italy to The Wharf. This Italian restaurant boasts handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and a curated wine list. The ambiance is elegant and inviting, making it a perfect choice for a romantic dinner or a celebratory meal with friends. Mi Vida provides upscale Mexican dining with a delicious menu and colorful setting.
These restaurants offer a refined dining experience, perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply indulging in a luxurious pre- or post-show meal. Be sure to make reservations well in advance, especially on concert nights.
Bars and Pubs with Food: Pre-Show Drinks and Bites
Sometimes, all you need is a good drink and some tasty pub fare before heading into The Anthem. Fortunately, The Wharf has plenty of bars and pubs that offer both.
Kirwan’s on the Wharf is an authentic Irish pub offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere, a wide selection of beers, and classic pub fare. It’s the perfect place to grab a pint and some fish and chips before the show. Easy Company Wine Bar is a great stop to grab a wine before or after the show, or just a good stop to make in general. Whiskey Charlie provides a rooftop bar with amazing view of the water and The Anthem. And of course, Dockmaster’s which is a classic American pub with good food.
These bars and pubs offer a lively atmosphere, a wide selection of drinks, and tasty food options. They’re perfect for a casual pre-show gathering or a post-concert celebration.
International Cuisine for a Global Taste
For those looking to explore flavors from around the world, The Wharf offers a diverse selection of international cuisine restaurants. Whether you’re craving Vietnamese, Mexican, Italian, or Greek, you’ll find it here.
Moon Rabbit, as previously mentioned, offers modern Vietnamese cuisine with a creative twist. Mi Vida brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico to The Wharf with its authentic dishes and festive atmosphere. Limani brings you to a new world with Greek food. Officina offers delicious Italian cuisine, from pasta to pizza.
These restaurants provide a delicious journey around the world, offering authentic flavors, unique dishes, and memorable dining experiences.
Tips for Dining Near The Anthem: Planning Your Perfect Meal
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable dining experience near The Anthem, here are a few essential tips:
Make Reservations: This is crucial, especially on concert nights. Restaurants near The Anthem fill up quickly, so it’s essential to book your table well in advance. Use online reservation platforms like OpenTable or Resy to secure your spot.
Consider Transportation: Parking at The Wharf can be limited and expensive. Consider alternative transportation options, such as the Metro (the Waterfront Station on the Green Line is within walking distance), ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, or even a scenic water taxi.
Check Menus and Hours: Before heading to a restaurant, be sure to check their website or online menu to ensure they have options that appeal to you. Also, double-check their hours of operation, as they may vary, especially on concert nights.
Factor in Show Times: Plan your dining experience around the show time. Arriving early allows you to avoid the pre-show crowds and enjoy a relaxed meal. Alternatively, consider a post-show bite or drinks to avoid the rush out of the venue and let the traffic die down.
Budget Accordingly: The restaurants near The Anthem offer a wide range of price points, so be sure to choose an option that fits your budget. There are plenty of affordable casual dining spots, as well as upscale restaurants for a more indulgent experience.
Restaurant Spotlight: Del Mar – A Taste of Spain on The Wharf
For a truly unforgettable dining experience near The Anthem, I highly recommend Del Mar. This stunning Spanish seafood restaurant offers breathtaking waterfront views, a sophisticated ambiance, and a menu brimming with flavorful dishes.
The ambiance at Del Mar is elegant and inviting, with a touch of Mediterranean charm. The restaurant features a spacious dining room with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the water, as well as a beautiful outdoor patio perfect for warm evenings. The menu at Del Mar showcases the best of Spanish cuisine, with a focus on fresh seafood and flavorful tapas. The paella is a must-try, as are the grilled octopus and the gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp). For a truly decadent experience, try the seafood platter, which features a selection of oysters, clams, mussels, and other fresh seafood delicacies.
Del Mar is an excellent choice for concert-goers looking to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a luxurious pre-show meal. The impeccable service, sophisticated ambiance, and exquisite cuisine will make your evening truly memorable.
Enjoy the Show, Enjoy the Food!
The Anthem offers an amazing concert experience, and The Wharf’s diverse culinary scene ensures that your pre- or post-show dining is just as exceptional. With everything from casual bites to upscale dining, you’re sure to find the perfect restaurant to satisfy your cravings. So next time you’re headed to The Anthem, skip the pre-show hunger pangs and explore the delicious dining options The Wharf has to offer! Explore the food near the Anthem for your next experience and enjoy!
