Chef Ryan Ratino's Washington, D.C.

The chef behind One MICHELIN Star Bresca and Two MICHELIN Stars Jônt dishes on his favorite spots around town.

Editor's Pick One MICHELIN Star Washington D.C.

Chef Ryan Ratino wears many hats, most notably as the driving force behind Two MICHELIN Star Jônt and One MICHELIN Star Bresca in the nation's capital. As two of the most popular spots in Washington, D.C., reservations are highly sought after. Ratino works exclusively with Capital One Dining to provide customers with access to prime-time tables at his spots for an all-star meal. It's that ethos of bringing good food to good people that started early for the starry chef.

Ratino's love of gastronomy began in his youth when he watched Emeril before spending time with his mom to try to recreate the dishes he saw on screen. Fast forward to present day and Ratino not only had Lagasse taste his cuisine, but also collaborate with him at the Euphoria chef's lunch in Greenville, South Carolina. (Lagasse's son E.J. also worked with Ratino on several special dinners at Emeril's in New Orleans and at Jônt). However, Ratino's love of food extends beyond the screen.

Living and working in Washington, D.C. provides Ratino with a diverse group of talent all bringing their own touch to the gastronomic landscape. "The blend of chefs here trying to cook and represent themselves through food is truly inspiring," says Ratino. "Washington, D.C. has an emerging food scene, and we hope to help push it forth as a global gastronomic dining destination."

Below, Ratino shares where he eats, shops, and has fun in D.C., and make sure to check out more spots not to miss from our Inspectors, chefs, and celebrities here.

Where do you like to go when you want something sweet?

Jenni's ice cream in Ohio is my go-to, but in D.C., it's an almond croissant from Seylou Bakery or any dessert from Chef Susan Bae at Moon Rabbit.

What about when you want a cocktail?

Our new cocktail bar Press Club led by our own Will Patton or Silver Lyan are my two favorites.

Where would you take an out of towner to give them that D.C. feel?

I'd take them out late night to the raw bar at Old Ebbitt Grill.

What are some of your favorite restaurants in D.C.?

When it comes to restaurants, I like Fiola, Albi, The Dabney, Seylou Bakery, Zaytinya, Yellow, and Petite Cerise.

Where do you like to go when you're not enjoying other restaurants?

You'll find me at the Capital One arena for basketball games or the Natural History Museum. Another nice way to spend the day is by renting a boat on the river. I spend a lot of time in Northern Virginia, and Reston is full of friends and fun. For shopping, I head to Tyson's.

Scott Suchman / The Dabney

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Where would we find you on a day off?

I'm pretty active on days off, so you'd find me playing golf, fly-fishing, or exercising at Life Time Fitness. I'm also always enjoying coffee. Bluestone Lane is my spot and an oat milk mocha with an extra shot is my order.

How do you decompress after a busy night in the restaurant?

I tend to come home and relax, sometimes with a decaf latte and a snack. I’m pretty simple. I thrive on the energy in the kitchen so when I get home, it’s easy to come down and get some rest! I’ll have a seat with my dog and just think about the night, run through my mental notes and prepare for my next day. Getting a great night's sleep so I can hit the gym in the morning is important to me.