The Smithsonian Institution boasts 21 museums, galleries, and a zoo in the Washington, DC, area that all reflect complex art, history, and culture. Although this museum complex — the largest in the world — is well known, you may not be as familiar with the dining options offered. Whether you want a quick coffee or a homestyle meal, there are numerous cafés and restaurants inside these museums that are worth visiting. Here are five spots with delicious and diverse cuisines to check out on your next visit.
Dolcezza Coffee & Gelato
10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Satisfy your sweet tooth at this coffee bar in the Hirshhorn Museum. Try house made seasonal gelato, espresso drinks, cold brew, teas, chai, and gourmet pastries. The café features furnishings created by world-renowned artist and architect Hiroshi Sugimoto and his studio, including tables from a 700-year-old Japanese nutmeg tree. Dolcezza is located at several other permanent storefronts around Washington, DC. Seventh Street and Independence Avenue, Washington, DC
Eat at America’s Table
11 a.m.–3 p.m.
After exploring the American History Museum, visit this American fare restaurant boasting three stations: American Table, Southwest, and Grill. Choose from classic sandwiches, barbecue, cheese and charcuterie, salads, and desserts. Coffee, wine, beer, and other beverages are available. This spot also features dishes inspired by Tex-Mex and Native American cuisine. 1300 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC
Mitsitam Native Foods Café
11 a.m.–5 p.m.
“Let’s Eat!” This is what “Mitsitam” means in the Native language of the Delaware and Piscataway peoples. Taste Indigenous cuisines and native foods from throughout the Western Hemisphere at this cafe in the American Indian Museum. Five stations each reflect a specific region of the Americas, embodying both traditional and contemporary native meals. Dishes include chilled soups, lobster rolls, ceviche, grilled bison, tostadas, and more. For a sweet treat, try corn bread, peach shortcake, or banana cake. Fourth Street and Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
Sweet Home Café
11 a.m.–3 p.m.
With a dining and kitchen space spanning approximately 12,000 square feet, this cozy restaurant can be found in the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Sweet Home Café showcases African American culture and history through traditional, authentic offerings at four stations. Taste homestyle entrees and sides including roast chicken, collard greens, baked sweet potatoes, mac and cheese, and coleslaw. Grill items, a salad bar, pastries, coffee, and grab-and-go items are also available. 1400 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC
The Courtyard Café
11:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Conclude your time at the National Portrait Gallery by unwinding at this quaint, casual dining spot in the museum’s Kogod Courtyard. Eat in the elegant glass atrium and gaze at beautiful plants and small reflecting pools. This cafe features a variety of baked goods, sandwiches, salads, desserts, and beverages. Try hand-dipped ice cream or specialty tarts and parfaits. Eighth and G streets NW, Washington, DC
Feature image of the National Museum of African American History and Culture by Alan Karchmer
For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine’s Food & Drink newsletter.
