Le Diplomate

This is a fantastic restaurant in the D.C. area. Myself and some friends had brunch reservations at 9:00 and had a fabulous time. The server was knowledgeable, professional, and funny, and our food was fantastic! They also had fresh bread as a little appetizer from a local bakery included in the meal. There was hand churned butter to put on the bread as well. The only negative thing that I have to say about this restaurant is the mosquitoes and flying insects. The windows were wide open, and with that, bugs flew around our food occasionally. It was extremely annoying. This is the only reason I’m giving this place four stars and not five. Overall, my party enjoyed themselves, and the Quiche Florentine, salad, and fresh bread were excellent. Everyone enjoyed their meals, and the atmosphere was calm and fitting for the restaurant. I’m not sure if I will be back or would recommend this place because of the open windows and flying bugs, but I did enjoy myself other than that. Note: Don’t get the side of bacon - it isn’t worth the price.

Highly recommended! We stopped by for a late afternoon food one day and was amazed at how fantastic the food is. It was all so good, especially their desserts. I have travelled to multiple regions in France and I can attest the food here tastes the closest to food in France. They even have a wine carafe on the menu, just like France. I wished I lived near here so I could go treat myself now and then.

Five Stars for the food and the atmosphere. Visited on a busy Saturday evening and got a table without a reservation, amazing. So much seating available. Indoor and outdoor seating. Went with a couple of friends and the drinks and food were fabulous. Tuna dish is a small serving. Trout was great and the muscles were awesome. Apple dessert and vanilla creme brulee delicious. Definitely a popular spot. And the bread... So much bread... Good variety of bread to choose from. Enjoy!

Excellent food, service, and romantic atmosphere at surprisingly affordable rates. Our waiter was highly attentive and helpful. Their bread is great. We dipped our bread in the French onion soup we ordered and they paired very well together. The steak frittes is tasty, but do be warned that the steak has very little fat in it since I believe it’s hanger steak so don’t expect fatty flavor.

Service: 3/5 Food: 4/5 Got a reservation and got seated immediately. We were running late and was trying to call but they don't answer phone calls. Fortunately our table was kept with a grace period. Recommend warm shrimp salad (the shrimp is very fresh), steak, escargot, and the duck. French onion soup is a must. We also ordered fries with added truffle but the truffle is flavorless so strongly recommend against adding it the entree.

Loved this place for a few reasons. Let’s start with the bread. Why can’t all restaurants serve great, fresh, delicious bread? Because it’s not easy. I pictured the empty escargot plate because after dipping the bread in the garlic sauce it was game over. Add onion soup, superb steak frites, profiteroles to die for and you have a neighborhood gem. Not to mention the wait staff gives treats to dogs being walked by the restaurants. How great is that?!

The food and ambiance are always great. However, on multiple occasions, I’ve felt that the service is not what you’d expect from a restaurant of this caliber. Last time I felt a bit rushed and the service, while attentive, was curt. When our entrees arrived, a waiter couldn’t fully reach to place my friend’s plate in front of him. Rather then walk around the table (there was space), the waiter placed it on the table and gave the plate a quick flick of the wrist to push it over. It’s a small example but I think captures a similar sentiment seen in other reviews about the service.