Best Places for Tapas in Washington D.C.

Going out for a dinner of tapas and assorted small plates can be great with a family, for a group of friends or for a romantic night on the town. Washington D.C. has a wide variety of tapas restaurants both downtown and in the surrounding metro area. Here are some of the best places for tapas in Washington D.C.

Zaytinya -- 701 9th Street NW, Washington, DC, (202) 638-0800

Jos© Andr©s offers up Mediterranean influenced tapas at Zaytinya, focusing particularly on Turkish, Greek and Lebanese influences. Top Chef contestant Mike Isabella is the chef, and the wide-open space also features a large bar area. Enjoy the fluffy, hot pita-pocket style bread that's served as you sit, but leave room for the great tapas and drinks to come.

Oyamel -- 401 7th Street NW, Washington, DC, (202) 628-1005

Oyamel is another Jos© Andr©s restaurant. This one serves Mexican inspired dishes, including tapas style small plates known as antojitos, or street snacks. Inside you'll find a Frida Kahlo inspired restaurant, and a drink menu that's definitely worth your attention with the Oyamel margarita featuring salt air and Ponche, a traditional Mexican drink.

Cava -- 9713 Traville Gateway Drive, Rockville, MD, (301) 309-9090

The strip mall location in suburban Rockville might not seem to inspire great food, but Cava has gained recognition across the entire DC metro area for their great food and drink. They have lots of creative menu and beverage options, and serve Greek tapas. Cava now also has a location in Capitol Hill at 527 8th St SE.

La Tasca -- Locations in Rockville, Arlington, Alexandria and DC

La Tasca offers up a large, diverse selection of Spanish tapas. They have a handful of different paellas available, and nearly a dozen different sangrias to indulge in. Keep a lookout for specials offered up at different locations, including unlimited tapas deals and various discounts.

Jaleo -- Locations in Bethesda, Crystal City and Downtown DC

You guessed it, Jos© Andr©s back for more action. Jaleo offers Spanish tapas, rounding out the collection offered by Zaytinya and Oyamel. You'll find everything from a selection of paellas and sangrias to a variety of other Spanish fare.

Bodega -- 3116 M Street NW, Washington, DC, (202) 333-4733

Located in Georgetown, Bodega thrives from its dark black and red interior, that's equal part restaurant, lounge and bar. They serve a large selection of Spanish tapas and have a small outdoor area as well. It's also a great place to grab a quick drink and just hang out for a bit.

Relic -- 4936 Fairmont Ave, Bethesda, MD, (301) 656-1209

Relic is owned and operated by the same folks at Bodega, and you'll a different take on eye-catching decor and style, and a restaurant that once again operates as a lounge. Come early and grab a seat on a comfy leather couch and enjoy some more rustic tapas, including lots of burgers and steak options.