Le Diplomate

1601 14th St NW, Washington - 20009
1070 reviews
French Brasseries
(202) 332-3333

Very very hot in the outside veranda. Half of our tables were in the sun We were totally drenched and soaked sweating. The small tired very slow fans had absolutely no impact to cool. And the team spared no efforts to accommodate us in a better empty tables

First time eating at Le Diplomate for dinner. I would say that the entrees were okay (trout and steak frites). The trout was nice but bland. The fries were great but the steak was not great quality. Going forward, we will come back just for brunch because we found the food better. The service was great as usual. We really enjoyed eating outside in the individual cubicles. Inside is just too noisy for our son who is autistic. We did really enjoy the french onion soup and the cheese plate. Overall, it is a great restaurant.

My two friends and I are American but we are also French citizens. We enjoy the the Diplomate for its French aspirations. One guest ordered a Ricard and was served a short glass with Ricard and a bunch of ice cubes. This is simply not how a Ricard is served. So, while sitting at a table with ‘Ricard’ written across it, it was necessary for him to explain that Ricard is served with the alcohol in a tall glass by itself with a carafe of cold flat water and a cup of ice cubes, each on the side. This was provided, but the server seemed put off and never provided a spoon for the ice. Two of my guests had not finished the charcuterie plate and their salades vertes before their primary plates were brought to the table. This is bad timing and not a very acceptable manner for a meal to be presented. It would never happen in France. We also waited quite a bit of time for bread to be brought to the table and for our carafes of wine to be served. One of my guests was horrified when his plate was removed from the table when his fellow diners were not yet done with that course. This is extremely poor manners in France and makes those who have not yet enjoyed their meal feel rushed or embarrassed. The quality of the food was however outstanding. With a little better understanding by the servers of how French food is to be served and how one should interpret the placement of utensils on a client’s plate to understand if they are ready for the next course, service could be greatly improved.

Best food and service while we were in DC. We loved the ambiance. This place is legit. We will be back!

Entry is a little tough- no where to stand comfortably and not be in the way on a busy night! Seating came quickly, however, and Hostess was lovely and helped us switch table from atrium/greenhouse area to main dining room. It was a special occasion but it did not appear that Le Dip knew that, despite me entering it on my reservation. Great food and waiter did an excellent job of serving us well and attentively, but not rushing us.

Anastasia was unforgettable at the bar and so was the steak au poivre. Loved our experience here.

We had the most amazing experience and meal. Thank you!!

Never fails to be spectacular.

Great time and meal as always. A DC staple for a reason! We have enjoyed coming over the years but loved bringing our foodie two-year-old for the first time. (He loved it!) Everyone enjoyed their food, the service was excellent and ambience very nice: feels special, yet at the same time informal and comfortable. The people are always welcoming. Thanks Le Diplomate!

There for celebration. It was great, loved it. Will certainly go back