Inauguration day and places to eat in Washington DC

Washington DC, (photo by  )
Washington DC


Behind the closed doors of the White House Barack Obama was yesterday sworn in for a second term in office as President of the United States of America. The televised ceremony took place in the Blue Room with his family at his side.

Today sees the Obamas taking part in a huge public ceremony in Washington DC to mark Inauguration Day, which falls rather poignantly upon the Martin Luther King Jr Day holiday.

The President will address the crowds at noon, followed by a parade on Pennsylvania Avenue from 1pm.  Certain events are ticket only, but there are areas where non-ticket holders can watch the Swearing-in Ceremony and the Inaugural Parade, so hurry if you wish to soak up some of the atmosphere. 

 

 For anyone visiting today, or if you've been inspired to plan a trip to the city, here are our top four restaurants in Washington, DC:


2 Amys Pizza

  • 3715 Macomb Street NW
  • Washington DC
  • Tel: 202-885-5700

www.2amyspizza.com

Blistered, simple, and decadent Neapolitan style pizza. The thin crusts are famous throughout the capital city, and guests can wait up to an hour for a table. $–$$


Ben's Chili Bowl

  • 1213 U Street NW
  • Washington DC
  • Tel: 202-667-0909

www.benschilibowl.com

Loved by celebrities, locals, and presidents, this 1950s joint built its reputation on the chilli half-smoke, a pork-and-beef sausage on a bun, topped with mustard, onions, and spicy chilli sauce. $

 

Oyamel

 401 7th Street NW

Washington DC

Tel: 202-628-1005

www.oyamel.com

DC has fallen hard for the sophisticated Mexican cooking of José Andrés. This branch of his restaurant family serves small plates, ceviche, and tacos. $$


Palena

  • 3529 Connecticut Avenue NW
  • Washington DC
  • Tel: 202-537-9250

www.palenarestaurant.com


Modern, seasonal American cuisine draws Washingtonians here for special occasions, burger cravings, and everything in between.The formal dining room offers a fixed price menu, but the adjoining Palena Café ($$–$$$) has more casual fare. The Palena Market has opened next door providing ingredients used in the restaurant as well as ready to eat sweets and savouries. $$$