The top-grossing independent restaurants in D.C.
By Megan Rowe on Oct. 22, 2020Restaurant Business’ annual Top 100 Independents feature ranks the largest indies in the nation by food and beverage sales. Washington, D.C., has had a growing presence on the list in recent years, with nine restaurants this year. Click through to see the top-grossing D.C. restaurants.
Old Ebbitt Grill
A 2019 renovation cut into dining room capacity and eroded sales.
Top 100 rank: 3
2019 sales: $29.1M
2019 meals served: 892,830
Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab
A 2:30-6:30 happy hour promises half-price libations and affordable snacks.
Top 100 rank: 13
2019 sales: $23.7M*
2019 meals served: 277,850*
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*RB estimate
The Hamilton
Three dining rooms, three bars and a sushi bar fill this massive space.
Top 100 rank: 15
2019 sales: $23.1M
2019 meals served: 700,861
Le Diplomate
The $20 cheeseburger is a winner at D.C.’s most popular French bistro.
Top 100 rank: 35
2019 sales: $18.5M
2019 meals served: 363,609
Founding Farmers
The urban farmhouse is OpenTable's most-booked restaurant in the nation's capital.
Top 100 rank: 42
2019 sales: $17.9M
2019 meals served: 648,096
Farmers Fishers Bakers
Like other Founding Farmers locations, this one has pivoted to offer groceries as well as prepared meals.
Top 100 rank: 88
2019 sales: $12.6M
2019 meals served: 371,025
Farmers & Distillers
A popular cocktail bar and brisk lunch trade keep this location buzzing.
Top 100 rank: 92
2019 sales: $12.3M
2019 meals served: 375,309
Carmine's
Seven private dining rooms can accommodate up to 700 guests.
Top 100 rank: 94
2019 sales: $12.2M
2019 meals served: 148,135
Mi Vida
Upscale Mexican from Knead Hospitality + Design and chef/restaurateur Roberto Santibanez.
Top 100 rank: 98
2019 sales: $12M
2019 meals served: 226,226