Tin of smoked oysters with saltines at Hank’s Oyster Bar and Lounge

 
  BlackSalt Restaurant

Hank’s Oyster Bar and Lounge
The new eatery, located next door to the original Hank’s in Dupont, does not disappoint with an array of delicious seafood snacks and cocktails. Hank’s delivers succulent fulfillment in one shot with its Uni Shooters, a concoction of sea urchin, cucumber, oyster, and Dolin blanc vermouth. 1624 Q St. NW, 202-462-4265; hanksdc.com

Cafe Milano
A bulwark of the District dining scene, Franco Nuschese’s scene-y Georgetown spot gives its seafood the old-world Italian treatment. The standout dish: the Branzino del Mediterraneo—roasted imported Mediterranean sea bass with rosemary and vegetables. Be prepared for an enticing presentation: The fish, brought out as a whole, is fileted tableside. 3251 Prospect St. NW, 202-333-6183; cafemilano.net

BlackSalt Restaurant
While the seasonal daily catch is perfection, we recommend an appetizer of fried Ipswich clams from the standard à la carte menu. Never greasy, the taste conjures summers on the Cape; they also come with a delectable Madras aioli dipping sauce. Another must: The blue shell mussels, prepared four different ways. 4883 MacArthur Blvd., 202-342-9101; blacksaltrestaurant.com

Bar Pilar
Located in Logan Circle, Bar Pilar is a tantalizing spot, with a menu inspired by local farms and New American cuisine. If you like bold flavors, the Spanish white anchovies are unrivaled: served on thick country grilled bread, coated in olive oil, and topped with red peppers. 1833 14th St. NW, 202-264-1751

Marcel’s
Known for its superb pre- and post-theater menu, this French restaurant also constructs excellent potato blinis, which come with Scottish smoked salmon and, should you require a little extra decadence, caviar. 2401 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, 202-296-1166; marcelsdc.com

Plume
It is lauded for its wine list (Wine Spectator recognized it with its Award of Excellence), but Plume is also a superb seafood dining experience, especially with its newest fall menu addition—chef Chris Jakubiec’s pavé of halibut with an herb crust, zucchini “spaghetti,” and Niçoise olives. 1200 16th St. NW, 202-448-2300

The Bombay Club
This Downtown eatery expertly deploys Indian curries in its seafood dishes, like the shrimp patia made with tomato, onion, tamarind, chili, and garam masala. You might even get a star sighting with your meal, as the restaurant is a popular spot for political luminaries and celebrities alike. 815 Connecticut Ave. NW, 202-659-3727; bombayclubdc.com

Equinox
In need of a new twist on lobster? Get a table here and order the fazzoletti pasta with ragout of Maine lobster, sweet corn, and house-cured bacon. With its urban dining charm, Equinox is also the perfect setting for intimate get-togethers. 818 Connecticut Ave. NW, 202-331-8118

Ardeo+Bardeo
This modern American bistro in the heart of Cleveland Park embraces elements from Mediterranean, Asian, and French cuisine. Creative combinations like the scallop schnitzel with sweet onion purée, pickled peaches, and pecan brown butter are best paired with the balanced acidity of a crisp Sauvignon or Chenin Blanc. 3311 Connecticut Ave. NW, 202-244-6750; ardeobardeo.com

Vermilion
The Maryland crab finds its way to Virginia. Executive chef Tony Chittum’s Chesapeake roots lend to a local favorite, known as a soft shell crab “BLT.” Prepared with two fried green tomatoes, smoked bacon, frisée, and whipped avocado, a bite of this crispy bit is an experience to be savored again and again. 1120 King St., Alexandria, 703-684- 9669; vermilionrestaurant.com