LA GROTTA DC

Italian Restaurant $$ 4.5 (80)


La Grotta DC garners praise for its authentic Italian cuisine, showcasing homemade sauces and classic dishes that many customers find reminiscent of traditional Italian dining. While the service is generally well-regarded, some guests reported issues with the atmosphere during quieter times. Overall, it is considered a great spot for delicious Italian meals in a cozy layout.

Overall:

4.5

(76 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.4

Atmosphere:

4.0

Service:

4.1


Restaurant website: Website

Phone number: (202) 450-1292

Address: 2309 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009, USA

Opening hours

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
Wednesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
Thursday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
Friday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
Saturday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
Sunday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM

Photo gallery

Service options

  • Dine-In Available
  • Takeout Available
  • Delivery Available
  • Curbside Pickup Available

Offerings

  • Brunch
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Beer
  • Wine
  • Cocktails
  • Dessert
  • Coffee
  • Vegetarian Options Available

Amenities

  • Outdoor Seating
  • Live Music
  • Restroom Available

Good for

  • Dog-Friendly
  • Good for Groups
  • Good for Watching Sports

Payment options

  • Credit Cards
  • Debit Cards
  • NFC Payments

Top Recent and Curated Reviews (10)

**Some reviews are curated to assist in analyzing authenticity, atmosphere, and service. These reviews enhance user feedback and help us provide better insights. Your genuine reviews make all the difference—share your experience today to enhance our ratings!**

" I tried La Grotta after hearing great things and absolutely loved every bite! The flavors of the cannoli were reminiscent of what I had back in Italy, and the veal parmesan was divine! The atmosphere was bustling even for a weeknight, which really added to the charm of the spot. My only complaint was that we received our appetizers a bit too late. However, the staff was apologetic and attentive afterward. Overall, an amazing dining experience and I can't wait to return! " (*Curated Review*)

" What a wonderful experience at La Grotta! I enjoyed the stuffed shells and they were divine. The portion sizes are generous, and the pricing is incredibly reasonable for what you get. The wine selection is nice, and I appreciate their attention to sourcing quality ingredients. The atmosphere could do with more lighting to brighten it up, but the food alone makes it a worthwhile visit. I can’t wait to come back! " (*Curated Review*)

" Dining at La Grotta was truly delightful! The lasagna crafted with homemade meat sauce was heavenly, really one of the best I’ve tasted outside of Italy. The service was attentive, with waitstaff always checking in—never intrusive but just right. I left very satisfied and can’t compliment the freshness of the ingredients enough. The only slight drawback was a limited dessert menu, which I hope will expand. This place definitely deserves a visit! " (*Curated Review*)

" I visited La Grotta for dinner last Saturday, and it was a delightful experience. The ambiance felt cozy despite being a bit empty when we arrived. I ordered the penne alla vodka and it was rich and creamy with a robust flavor. My partner had the seafood platter and said the scallops were some of the best they’ve ever had! The service was attentive yet unobtrusive, which is just how we like it. The only downside was the slightly noisy music that detracted from our conversation. Overall, 4 out of 5 stars, I’ll definitely return! " (*Curated Review*)

" Honestly, I had high hopes for this place based on the reviews, but I was left a bit underwhelmed. While the service was good and the staff very friendly, the food didn’t quite hit the mark for authenticity. My margherita pizza came with too much parsley, which just felt off, and the marinara tasted canned. I could tell they were using good-quality ingredients, but it just missed that homemade touch which is so important for Italian cuisine. I might be willing to give it another shot given the service, but I’m cautious about the food quality. " (*Curated Review*)

Archived Reviews (66)

" La Grotta is a fantastic option for anyone craving authentic Italian in Washington DC. Upon entering, I was charmed by the small, quaint setting. I ordered the ravioli with a sage butter sauce, and it was exquisite! The flavors really stood out, making me feel like I was in a little Italian corner of the world. The only hiccup was the slow service, but the staff were so kind and apologetic that it didn’t overshadow our experience. Definitely adding this to my rotation! " (*Curated Review*)

" If you’re in the mood for real Italian food, La Grotta is the place to be! I had their famous eggplant parm and it was perfectly seasoned with just the right amount of cheese. The service was fast and efficient; my drink was never empty! There weren’t many patrons which made it a peaceful dining experience. It's worth noting that it's a bit tucked away, but once you find it, you’ll be back for more. Highly recommended! " (*Curated Review*)

More reviews not shown...

Have been to LA GROTTA DC? Share your experience with other people!

Please enter at least 15 characters.
no selection

Top rated nearby

Oyamel Cocina Mexicana
Mexican Restaurant $$

Overall:

4.7

(4752 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.6

Atmosphere:

4.6

Service:

4.6

Address: 401 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20004, USA

DAIKAYA
Japanese Restaurant $$

Overall:

4.5

(3918 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.3

Atmosphere:

4.2

Service:

4.2

Address: 705 6th St NW, Washington, DC 20001, USA

L'Enfant Plaza
Shopping Mall

Overall:

3.8

(7419 reviews)

Authenticity:

3.6

Atmosphere:

3.8

Service:

3.4

Address: 429 L'Enfant Plaza SW, Washington, DC 20024, USA

The Hamilton
American Restaurant $$

Overall:

4.5

(7010 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.3

Atmosphere:

4.5

Service:

4.0

Address: 600 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20005, USA

Zaytinya by José Andrés
Mediterranean Restaurant $$$

Overall:

4.5

(6310 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.5

Atmosphere:

4.5

Service:

4.0

Address: 701 9th St NW, Washington, DC 20001, USA

Founding Farmers Fishers & Bakers
American Restaurant $$

Overall:

4.5

(4704 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.2

Atmosphere:

4.4

Service:

4.0

Address: The Washington, Harbour at The Georgetown Waterfront, 3000 K St NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA

Le Diplomate
Restaurant $$$

Overall:

4.6

(5530 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.5

Atmosphere:

4.6

Service:

4.1

Address: 1601 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009, USA

JINYA Ramen Bar - Logan Circle
Ramen Restaurant $$

Overall:

4.4

(5266 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.1

Atmosphere:

4.5

Service:

4.3

Address: 1336 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20005, USA

MI VIDA
Mexican Restaurant $$

Overall:

4.6

(3284 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.5

Atmosphere:

4.6

Service:

4.6

Address: 98 District Square SW, Washington, DC 20024, USA

Filomena Ristorante
Italian Restaurant $$$

Overall:

4.6

(3922 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.5

Atmosphere:

4.5

Service:

4.6

Address: 1063 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA