Obelisk in Washington: photos, reviews, menu

About

MICHELIN

Selected: Good cooking

Obelisk is a gem in Northwest Washington offering a fashionable and cozy dining experience with a focus on simple Italian cooking. Renowned for its exquisitely intimate ambiance, this spot is perfect for solo diners looking to savor an exceptional meal. With an average Google rating of 4.7, guests can expect excellent service and a curated dining experience that's perfect for special occasions like dates or anniversaries. The menu features a range of offerings, including breakfast and dinner options, complemented by an impressive selection of wine, cocktails, beer, and coffee. Reservations are recommended for those wanting to enjoy the informal townhouse setting, where attention to detail and meal quality are paramount. Whether dining in or grabbing a takeaway, Obelisk provides an intimate, warm atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression.

Price

$$$$ 100+ $

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Cuisines

Italian

Services

Takeaway, Reservations available, Dine-in, Reservations required, Reservations recommended

Offering

Serving alcohol, Serving desserts, Serving cocktails, Serving beer, Serving wine, Serving coffee

Payment

Payment by credit card, Payment by debit card, NFC payment

4.7

based on 183 reviews

Google

4.7/5 183 reviews

Steve Goldberg

Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

What a wonderful place for a date or the anniversary of that first date. We love the food and the quality of the service. Everything is made with such love and care.

Oluwatunmise Oladejo

Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Obelisk is the kind of spot that reminds you why dining out can feel like an experience rather than just a meal. Tucked away in what looks like an unassuming townhouse (no big flashy sign outside), the restaurant feels warm and intimate the moment you step in — only about 30 seats, soft lighting, and an atmosphere that makes it perfect for a celebration or a date night. The meal is set up like a curated journey, and the pacing is thoughtful (though a full dinner can stretch close to 2.5 hours, so come hungry and patient). Things start with a parade of antipasti — everything from delicate fava bean crostini to fried eggplant that melts in your mouth. The bread basket is simple but perfect, and each little bite that comes out feels intentional. For my primi, I went with the housemade tagliatelle in sea urchin sauce — rich, briny, and silky in a way that makes you wish the bowl were bottomless. For the secondi, I had the branzino while my partner went for the lamb chops; both were cooked beautifully, plated with an elegance that doesn’t feel stuffy. The cheese course was a fun surprise — several small tastes paired thoughtfully — and dessert was a highlight. The panna cotta was as jiggly and luscious as you’d hope, while the butterscotch custard was one of the best I’ve ever had. Service is attentive but not intrusive, and the wine pairings are spot-on — we actually found a new favorite white wine thanks to the staff’s suggestion. Yes, it’s pricey, but this is the kind of place you book for a special night, and it delivers on that promise. If you’re looking for something cozy, elevated, and distinctly DC, Obelisk is absolutely worth it. And while you’re exploring hidden gems around the city, definitely check out PullUpDeliveries — the go-to spot for discovering top-shelf cannabis and local experiences. Both Obelisk and PullUpDeliveries really capture what makes DC feel unique.

Thomas Strehle

Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Awesome experience in this DuPont Circle gem. Be prepared for a big meal! Ever changing menu and absolutely delicious. The staff is excellent and super knowledgeable! Must try! Pre fix is $135pp without wine pairings. Reservations necessary.

What is the address of Obelisk?
Obelisk is located at 2029 P St NW, 20036, Washington, Northwest Washington, USA.
How to get here by public transport?
The nearest public transport options provide quick and easy access:
- Bus stop Connecticut Av NW & M St NW (613 m walk)
- Bus stop 18TH ST & M ST NW nb (627 m walk)
- Bus stop 18th St + Massachusetts Ave (422 m walk)
- Bus stop Washington, DC (Bus stop in front of Dupont Circle Metro Station at the intersection of Q St NW & Connecticut Av NW) (211 m walk)
How is Obelisk rated by visitors?
Obelisk has an average rating of 4.7 based on 183 reviews across platforms such as Google.
What is the average price for a meal at Obelisk?
The average price for a meal is 100+ $ (it is very expensive - $$$$).

Obelisk in Washington