Some of the Best Date Ideas in Southeast (SE)

Sadly, the Southeast quadrant of DC has gotten a bit of a bad rap, due to high crime rates — high, at least, in comparison to other quadrants like Northwest. But the area has been undergoing an economic revitalization in recent years, particularly in neighborhoods closest to the U.S. Capitol. So don’t overlook it when considering your next date spot!

Southeast neighborhoods like Barracks Row, Capitol Hill and Eastern Market are particularly great areas for dates, with tasty restaurants and hip bars, plus rich history to boot.

Southeast (SE) Image courtesy of ElvertBarnes on Flickr


eat fried chicken

Crispy on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside – is there anything better than a well-cooked piece of fried chicken? There are tons of restaurants with tasty fried chicken dishes on the menu. Or get some to go and have yourself a little picnic!

where to eat fried chicken in DC >>

eat in Barracks Row

Barracks Row is on the rise! Previously a rundown area, this neighborhood in Southeast DC has been cleaned up and is now a vibrant spot with a wide array of restaurants and bars. It’s a fun and tasty spot to eat!

where to eat in Barracks Row in DC >>

grab a burger

Grabbing a burger is a tried and true date idea. Whether it’s your first date or you’ve been together for years, a burger joint makes for a tasty and fun meal that won’t bleed your wallet dry. Whether on a bun or wrapped in lettuce, with cheese or without, beef or veggie, burgers offer endless options that are sure to please all couples!

where to grab a burger in DC >>

grab a hot dog

Think hot dogs are just for kids? No way! Hot dogs are awesome. First, they’re delicious! Seriously, why do you think Andy Griffith was always hitting up that hot dog stand in “Matlock”? Second, they’re cheap, filling up your tummy without emptying your wallet. So, the next time you’re looking for a tasty but inexpensive date, grab a hot dog!

where to grab a hot dog in DC >>

go out for pizza

Remember the good ol' days of eating pizza at a sleepover or after sports practice? Well, even though you’re all grown up now, pizza hasn’t lost its appeal. So why not share a pie with your sweetie on your next night out?

Sure, it might not make the best date for an anniversary or other special occasion. But, if you’re looking for a casual night out that won’t break the bank, grabbing a slice of pizza is the perfect date!

where to go out for pizza in DC >>

go out to brunch

Brunch is without a doubt the best meal ever created, combining the best parts of breakfast and lunch with a good dose of alcohol to top it all off. Start with a mimosa or bloody mary and then feel free to go hog wild with eggs, bacon, French toast, pancakes, pastries and more. It will be your best foodie date ever!

where to go out to brunch in DC >>

share a milkshake

Want to take that first date to the next level? Well, assuming all went well with dinner, consider closing the meal with dessert. And what better than a milkshake, which is doubly delightful when shared? So, if you’re really diggin' your date, grab a second straw and slurp up the sweetness. It’s good to the last sip!

where to share a milkshake in DC >>

eat Chinese food

It seems that practically everyone loves Chinese food. So if you’re wondering what type of cuisine to have on a first date, Chinese is a pretty safe bet. From eggrolls and fried rice to moo shu pork and Peking duck, there is truly something for everybody. So grab a pair of chopsticks and get your date on!

where to eat Chinese food in DC >>