We always enjoy going to Bistro Cacao. The biggest plus is the highly appealing decor. It's unique because of its colorful & unusual light fixtures as well as the fact that many of the tables are cozy because they have curtains that separate them from all the other tables. On our most recent visit we discovered an appetizer that we liked very much. It's called spicy shrimp & it's very tasty as well as large enough to share. I wasn't thrilled, though, with my entree. The beef bourguignon wasn't as flavorful as I'd hoped. It also was disappointing because it didn't include any carrots. read more

See all

I love it here. It's a quaint, French restaurant with amazing food. It's a two story restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating. I came here with friends for brunch. They have an a la carte menu or three course brunch, and you can add on bottomless mimosas. The food did not disappoint! Their escargot is some of the best of I've had in DC. Their steak frites were perfectly cooked and I'm a sucker for shoestring fries. For dessert I ordered the crème brûlée. This was their only fault. I think the pan was too deep and not wide enough as the consistency was not on par with standard crème brûlée. read more

See all

My family abd I dined here on a last-day whim during our vacation in the D.C. area. They wrre happy to fit us in on short notice, and it impressed all of us. A very cute vrnue in a townhouse, they have friendly staff and a well thought-out menu. The Bœuf Bourguignon was especially good, as was the Saumon Noirci which my teenager had. Any desert on the menu will just amaze your mouth. We tried them all! Highly recommended! read more

This is quite possibly the best French restaurant in town and I'm not joking. Seriously a 10/10 experience. A date night or special occasion restaurant for sure, the interior is gorgeous. My cousin and I were speechless. We were right on time for our reservation and there was plenty of street parking in front of the restaurant. It was 80° today in Washington DC so everyone was seated outside, which meant we got the whole upstairs dining room to ourselves as we watched the patrons outside. Very first time dining here. I saw it on Instagram and I am blown away. We started Soupe a l'oignon (French onion soup) Grilled de calamari (grilled calamari) Poulpe grille(octopus) and Mushroom Vol-au-vent which is a mushroom pastry. 10 out of 10 on every single appetizer, we were really hesitant on the mushroom pastry and we were so glad we tried it. It was fluffy and light and decadent flakiest dough. Absolutely phenomenal. And like I said, every appetizers blew us away at a point in time we were speechless. Mikey was our waiter and when we told him we were interested in the octopus, he assured us that we've made a really good choice and we did. The octopus is fabulous if you're into that kind of thing. He was such a great sport going over the menu with us and so polite. For dinner we got the fillet and my cousin got the scallops and we cleaned our plates. I don't have any other thing to say about bistro cacao, except that you have to visit, words can't really put into frame how this experience was. The interior is really picturesque by the way, we couldn't stop taking photos. We ended with crème bruele and profiteroles, again, FAB!! This was a FABULOUS experience and we will be back. read more

See all

I wanted to come here for quite some time. I was not disappointed. The ambience is super cute. Coming in it looked more like a bar and possibly a little Parisian Café. But the second floor was weird. It really became more of an experience. Sexy curtain off two seats and eclectic layered patterns and tapestry really made bistro cacao feel like it was outside of the city. The Waite staff was really attentive. Water and bread, service or top-notch. I had the escargot and steak frites. Both the escargot and the steak were pretty good. But I must say the french fries were the highlight. They almost melt into your mouth. I'm a fry girl. I love fries. Honestly these might be some of the best I've had in DC. I just kept remarking the French really know their french fries. C'est magnifique! read more

See all

Have you tried a lunch at @bistrocacao on @capitolhillbid yet? I'd been craving their steak sandwich and fries all week, and my friend thoroughly enjoyed a fat cheeseburger! I'll be back for their brunch menu at some point because their steak and eggs and eggs Benedict looked to die for read more

Bistro Cacao - Cheeseburger - French Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

See all

We had the most fantastic late-Valentine's day dinner. My partner and I came here to celebrate the Monday after because he was away, and they had all the same decor and ambiance. The service was fantastic, and the food was delicious and reasonably priced for a fancy night out. I highly recommend this place for a romantic evening. read more

What a lovely meal - will come back! French cuisine isn't one I naturally gravitate to but my friend wanted to come here. I'm glad we went! Our server was very attentive and friendly. My friend got the old fashioned which she said was very well done and I got a glass of Pinot noir. I ordered the Filet mignon. It was cooked perfectly and whatever they did to the potatoes--chefs kiss! Soft on the inside, crusted and crispy on the outside and I think a hint of sage? Could eat them all day. We split the profiteroles for dessert - hard to go wrong. read more

Bistro Cacao - Profiteroles - French Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

See all

Came for brunch on a Saturday. Cute place. Nice looking bar and outdoor patio, but we opted to be inside on the 2nd floor since it was about to rain. Service was friendly, place was mostly empty. Brunch is a good value 3-course meal, but can go a la carte. We ordered the onion soup, burger, steak frites, French toast dessert, all decent. Also ordered the pastry basket of mini croissants, but small serving for $8 and not very good. read more

See all

Such a cute and aesthetic place!!! Tons of seating, in a lovely area of DC, with street parking available. They have outdoor and upstairs seating. The service was great! They have a good brunch deal which is $35 for an appetizer, entree, and desert. They also have a la carte options or you can do bottomless drinks. We ordered Appetizers - escargot which was a 10/10 sooooo goooood! It was my first time having it and really enjoyed. The flavors were bursting, it wasn't slimy like I thought it would be, and honestly had the texture of grilled oysters. We also had the French Onion Soup - 10/10 best one I've ever had! Flavor was sooooooo gooooood!!! Entrees: The smoked salmon Benedict was alright according to my friend. I'm not a fan of Benedict's so I didn't try it out. I got the Steak and Frites I enjoyed my meal! It wasn't the best steak and frites, but it was solid. They have my favorite frenchy fries the shoe string fries. I'd say if they want to level up the steak rather than mustard they should provide something more savory to go with Desserts were meh we got the crepe and French toast. I'd go with the French toast over the crepe. The crepe was dry as hell Overall I'd come back and try dinner. I feel like this would be a sexy date night spot! read more

See all

Very cute decor inside, loved the theme was very cozy. The food was good. The calamari was amazing definitely didn't expect the flavor but was happily surprised. read more

Bistro Cacao - Branzino - French Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

See all

Randomly was cruising the city and I was starving! My friend and I found this gem and it was so good! Pasta was fresh! Service was quick! And food was good! My friend enjoyed hers too. I got a mushroom ravioli and tore it up in 8 minutes! It's also a cozy place very friendly! I would definitely come back again! read more

Bistro Cacao - Perfect - French Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

See all

The overall restaurant was amazing. I was seated upstairs since I was by myself and my waitress was phenomenal. The muscles and the wine that I have were fresh and better than anywhere that I've tasted thus far in DC. read more

Bistro Cacao - French Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

What a cute hidden gem in Capitol Hill! The restaurant has a beautiful ambiance and the food was great. Definitely great for a romantic night out or an intimate dinner. We came for lunch, which was also a great time to come. I would definitely come back for brunch and try other things. I had one of the salads which was delicious and my friend had a sandwich - we were both very happy. Service was also great, highly recommend stopping by if you have a chance. They also seem to have a space for private dining if you wanna plan an event. read more

Bistro Cacao - French Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Came here with 20 people from work. No small feat for any place. They did a stellar job considering we were a lot. Food top to bottom was delicious. Would probably stay away from the nachos. They were underwhelming. But we ordered almost everything else. All good. Cool atmosphere too. Staff was on it. Even considering the size of our group. Doubt we had to linger for much the whole evening. read more

DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY - plz i never spend time to make a review but this was the biggest waste of money my boyfriend and i came here for valentine's day and we were already pissed because we didn't get the transparency of knowing there was a set menu....anyways... we decided to stay because why not treat ourselves first my drink...i got the lavender french 75. it tasted good don't get me wrong, could've been a bit stronger. but why was there lavender leaves in my drink? i literally had to keep spitting out the actual lavender it was so distasteful next was our food...i was so excited to try dinner menu items that are raved about on here but they didn't have any of the actual good stuff on that set menu. i got a salad which i could've easily made at home (mind you i don't cook) and scallops which were teeny tiny. entrees- a steak should not be wrapped in bacon for it to taste good. at least it was cooked correctly but has no flavor. and the lobster ravioli was more of a lobster empanada. dough was THICK and bread-like. and the sauce was all cheese, just nasty. and you don't think it could get worse but it does. dessert....we got two desserts, which one was okay. do not get the chocolate roll cake- so dry and so tough to actually get through. it felt like chewing styrofoam. anyways $400 later and we are on our way to mcdonald's cuz we are still hungry after that meal read more

See all

Best place for a romantic special occasion. Staff was super helpful, they allowed me to bring a violinist to play some music for my wife's and I 5th anniversary. They accomodated us in a private space, the service was really nice. Food was delicious, and the place was very cozy and intimate. Overall a great experience. 10/10. read more

Bistro Cacao - French Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

My wife and I went to Bistro Cacao for date night recently and we were pretty impressed. Without a doubt this was one of the most romantic venues we've ever eaten in before. From the music to the decor to the rose petals on the table, we loved the detail. I ordered the Salad Cacao and Magret de Canard while my wife ordered the Soupe à l'Oignon and Bœuf Bourguignon. The dishes were fantastic. I haven't had duck in so long so this was a great reminder of how amazing duck is. Parking was not too bad we got lucky. This gem is definitely on the top of our list. Our host/server was extremely attentive and made our experience great. read more

See all

Friends and I had brunch here in June before a show at the Folgers. We were very happy. We were seated on the second floor, which is lovely and old fashioned. We had comfy window seats that felt luxurious. Each of us had an entree that we liked - eggs Benedict for one, Croque Madame for me, and Eggs Norwegian for someone else. (I think that last one had salmon on it, but don't hold me to it.) We all enjoyed our meal. We'd go back. read more

Charming and romantic atmosphere in a row house. Looks like it has rooms for small parties. We enjoyed our meals very much - beef Bourgogne and bronzini. Our server was Mikey and he was very helpful. The bread they delivered to the table with whipped butter was crisp on the outside and warm and soft on the inside. Just like we like it! A perfect evening. Be sure to make a reservation. read more

See all

Beautiful and romantic spot, perfect for a date night. The ambiance is cozy and intimate, service was great, and the food was amazing--you've gotta try the salmon! read more

Bistro Cacao - French Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Best Happy Hour in Capitol Hill hands down!!! Because wow! Amazing prices, food, and vibes. I love the patio seating. I think it's enclosed during cold weather. I'm definitely going back for the happy hour. Service was great. read more

Bistro Cacao - French Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

See all

Everything is delicious--onion soup, mussels (maybe the best I've ever had), steak, dessert.

Amazing Amazing Amazing We went for the crème brûlée and cocktails but also got mussels the service was amazing We even met the owner who was super kind and spent a good 20 minutes communicating with us Nice ambiance We sat at the bar had good service met a lovely couple had great conversations with them as well read more

See all

Been on my list for a while and glad I finally got to go to brunch here! Got the $35 3-course brunch meal! The parfait was fantastic- sweet, lots of fruit, and incredible yogurt. The eggs benedict was also great but I wish there was a bit more meat compared to the size of the muffin. The creme brulee was INCREDIBLE and a must try! Also got tea and my partner got coffee and they were on top of it with refilling both and our waters! We sat outside and it was very nice and quiet for a Saturday brunch! Seating was comfortable. Service was also great, for the waiters were kind and attentive and efficient!! There is a 3% service charge though and its not counted as a tip, which is annoying. My only other small complaint is my partner wanted to do the $8 pastry basket instead of one of the $12-15 appetizers and they wouldnt let them which was annoying given that it was cheaper. Finally, the waiter kept calling us "ladies" which I know is generally the pilot thing to do at restaurants, but my partner and I are both nonbinary and we should be moving away from this gendered language. Nonetheless, I would highly recommend Bistro Cacao. Great food and very affordable given the 3-course special! read more

See all

We were in DC to celebrate a special occasion. This place was perfect for dinner. The food was supreme, the service excellent and the atmosphere very French chic. Next time we're in town, we will surely return. read more

See all

They have an amazing brunch deal for three course for 39.99 and bottomless mimosas!! I think it's a great deal. Then the decor is so cute. I love the Parisian theme. They have indoor and outdoor seating. The service was also very good. The food came quick and my waitress was really pleasant. I can come back here over and over again!! read more

Nice food. Not all staff is trained. You get different Waiters, which is fine. But, that is how you see the lack of care. If they would train them about basic human care it would be a nicer place. Nice ambiance. No restroom on the first floor which is a considerable problem. The stairs are long, old style building. They did have beautiful roses which were the best part of my visit. read more

Went here for brunch during Restaurant Week in DC (so I'm a few weeks late to getting this review posted, but it's a long one and I do remember this vividly). My sister, friend and I were quickly greeted and seated (my request for upstairs seating was honored). The decor is gorgeous! The restaurant week menu noted that a pastry basket could be purchased for an additional $8 and it was worth it! My sister and I got the Forbidden Rose mocktails which were lovely, floral, and refreshing! The menu was 3 courses for $35, which isn't a bad deal, however... food was medicore. First course: sister and I went with the salade cacao, which had a pleasant tangy dressing. For entrees: I chose the omlette vegetarienne, my sister got the crepes aux champignons, and my friend got the ouefs benedict and asked for chicken sausage to be substituted for the pork bacon. First they brought 2 benedicts and I had to correct them that I ordered the veg omlette, but they quickly fixed it. My omlette was average, it was better once I got them to bring me some chili flakes, my sister enjoyed her crepe, and my friend did not like her benedict; she said the sausage tasted horrible, and we're assuming maybe they dont get asked for substitutes often so maybe it was just old. Not great. For dessert: I ordered the creme brulee, my sister got the chocolate tart (asked them to remove the raspberry coulis, as she's allergic), and our friend got the pain perdu french toast. I've made creme brulee at home much better than what I was given... the texture was not good. The sugar top was good, but the cream was lumpy, not smooth, and just not good overall. THE WORST OF ALL WAS THIS: my sister received her plate and IMMEDIATELY spotted a hair on the plate. She quietly whispered to him and let him know to not attract attention. The waiter was apologetic and brought her a new one. He was nice though and offered us all coffee on the house, which was appreciated. My sister liked the tart and Our friend enjoyed her pain perdu after not eating much of her benedict. Overall, the dishes lacked flavor and some technical/textural issues were present. ALSO, The water they brought out in the beginning was in 2 large bottles (we got still, our friend got sparkling), to pour from; We noticed on the receipt we were charged $6 for these lol... also service was a bit slow between rounds (we went around 1 mind you so the rush was mostly gone bc I was able to find paid parking right outside in the street), and the restroom had no toilet paper in either stall but was still clean. I don't think I'd return. Maybe this place has better reviews for the dinner items but brunch here was not it. read more

See all

Always 5 of 5 stars! Bistro Cacao is always wonderful! I've enjoyed over 25 meals over the last few years. The outdoor patio is really pleasant, the indoor first floor area has a nice and historic DC feel, and the upstairs has the most beautiful, intimate, and romantic dining rooms. Bistro Cacao's cuisine is exquisite all the time, boasting my personal favorites being their Magret de Canard, Boeuf Bourguignon, Raviolis aux Champignons, Steak Frites, and their Saumon Grille. The appetizers of Moules Marinieries are the best mussels that I have had in the DC area! The desserts are always delightful! Oh, and the wine, how could I forget the fine selection of French wine? The varied selection is marvelous and the fantastic wine flights to pair with one's meal is truly excellent! read more

See all

This place is absolutely lovely inside and also they have a precious front patio with a tent over it. Restaurant week brunch was a great deal but it was a little hit or miss. Service was friendly but very very slow. As far as food. The "mushroom" crepe was a HUGE disappointment. There were like two bites of mushroom inside. It was filled mostly with potatoes!!!! I did not order a potato crepe! It was also really dry and flavorless. Highly disappointed and highly do not recommend. All of us found the potatoes bland as well/ The dishes that went well were the yogurt parfait, gazpacho, chocolate tart, and French toast. I'll try again but I was pretty bummed that the mushroom crepe wasn't what I expected. read more

See all

After dining as a family on Mother's Day, I'm upgrading my review. The food was very good and the service was friendly. The prices are high, but it's a woman-owned business in the community worth supporting inside an 1885 rowhouse. read more

Had a very disappointing experience on Valentines day. Food, tables and service were all very very behind. Management clearly over booked and staff was not equipped to handle. Menu was very overpriced and the food subpar. Sad because the decor is wonderful, but I won't be going again. read more

What a lovely jewel box of a place. The decor is so lovely and the derive is very attentive. We went for our anniversary and the staff could not have been nicer. The food, while traditional French has some lovely unique takes on the classics. I had the calamari and it was delicious. I also had th Beef Wellington, which is Friday speciality and it was outstanding. Could not have asked for a better anniversary dinner. read more

This place has been on my "to visit" list for quite some time, and honestly... it was time, and absolutely worth it. We opted to sit outside this visit. Inside was incredibly cute, vibrant. We did have a run in at the end of our meal by one of DCs most popular rodents lmao. Sitting outside at night is a roll of the dice, I'm learning. Anyway, I ordered one of my favorite girls: espresso martini. It was by far one of the best I've ever had. The body of the drink, the richness, de-freaking-licious. Absolutely a must try! He tried the one of their wine flights, we don't remember the name but it had blanc in the name. Very good. For starters, we ordered the Soupe à l'Oignon and Grillade De Calamars. The French onion soup was so tasty! I enjoyed every single bite, the flavor was savory and bold. We didn't receive a baguette on the side but that didn't affect anything. The grilled calamari was also a hit. The flavor combination of every component was spot on, especially the grilled pineapple. I had the Magret de Canard for my entree. The duck had a citrusy flavor to it, very juicy and tender. I wish it had some crispiness or a crust to it. Nonetheless 10/10. He had the Truite Farcie. The stuffed trout was great. It wasn't heavily seasoned, very simple. Almost bland but not really? Crispy skin!! A very well composed dish. We would absolutely return, especially to try brunch, in spite of the visitor. Pamela was so sweet and attentive, she provided great service. read more

Every now and again I come up on a restaurant whose ambiance, customer service, & food are equally yoked. This French Bistro provided excellence in all 3 areas. I can't say I've ever had authentic French cuisine before, AND this is a great date spot!! . Where I am: @bistrocacao . Location Reviewed: 316 Massachusetts Ave., N.E. Washington D.C. . Menu Includes: Soups, Salads, Escargot, Calamari, Beef Tartare Petite Plates, Charcuterie Plates, Grilled Salmon, Grilled Blackened Striped Bass, Roasted Lamb, Pan seared Duck, Craft Desserts, Wine, Cocktails, & MORE!! . Items Reviewed: Their Soupe à l 'Oignon (French Onion Soup topped with Gruyère cheese, with a toasted baguette, & butter $15). STAMP!! Rich, not overbearing, smooth, the cheese flavor packed this soup. Their Crevettes Flambees (sautéed shrimp, heirloom tomatoes, a lemon, pickled shallots, tomato sauce, & cognac $16). STAMP!! Delectable, a tangy but savory sauce , & fresh!! GET THIS!! Their Steak Frites (a Filet Mignon cut medium well topped with herb butter, with Pommes Frites $42). STAMP!! I should've got the Filet medium, but juicy, tender, & well seasoned nonetheless!! The Fries...STAMP!! These were the BEST shoestring fries I've EVER had!! Well salted, extra crispy, no dip needed!! Their Trio Crème Brûlée (vanilla, chocolate, & coconut cream topped with caramelized sugar $11). STAMP all 3!! Truly rich, silky, & decadent!! Their Pearfect Drink (with Pear vodka, lemon juice pear nectar, shaken on the rocks $15). . Customer Service: On Point . Online Navigation: Easy . Parking: Rough . Recommendations: Everything I got!! Music: YouTube-Backyard Band Pockets & Sockets 1997 5 Stars=STAMP 4 1/2 Stars=LIKE THAT 4 Stars=DELICIOUS 3 Stars=DECENT 2 Stars=PASS 1 Star=NAH #Bigschlimsreviews read more

See all

My fiancee and I shared dinner here for New Year's Eve and I have to admit that I thought the service and food was pretty top notch for a night in which they were definitely SLAMMED busy. I tried escargot for the first time and tbh it wasn't my absolute favorite but I was grateful that I had the opportunity to try. I would give it a second chance but there was an element missing to reach five stars. read more

I have always enjoyed the beautiful decor and great food here. I had bad service experiences in the past, so I hesitated to come back. But we were pleasantly surprised this time. The service was very good. The nice waitress was smiling all the time, and very accommodating. It seemed like the venue was expanded, outdoor and the bar area were bigger and nicer. I still enjoyed the second floor the most. It was sophisticated with red lamps and curtains. We had brunch with friends and we tried almost everything on the menu. 4* Soupe à l'Oignon: French Onion Soup with Gruyère Cheese: typical French soup, good. 4*Salade "Cacao"-Mesclun Greens, Cherry Tomato, Goat Cheese, Walnut, Herb Vinaigrette: portion was small, but very fresh. 5*Escargots au Beurre d'Ail- Sautéed Snail, Garlic-Parsley Butter: my favorite, tender and tasty. 3*Saumon Fumé-Smoked Salmon, Shallot, Caper, Lemon, Boiled Egg, Whipped Creme Friache, Brioche Toast: healthy and light. 4*Oeufs Norwegian-Grilled Tomato. Smoked Salmon, English Muffin, French Fries, Hollandaise: big portion. 2*Crepes aux champignons Classic French Crepes, Roasted Forest Mushrooms, Potatoes, Gruyere, Egg: very small portion and lots of potatoes. Do NOT recommend. 4*Hamburger Grille-American cheese, lomato Aioli, Onion Jam, Pickles, French fries, Brioche Bun: big and good hamburger. It tasted better with onion jam. The fries were good too but I wish a salad alternative was available. 4.5*SteaK et Oeuis-Grilled New York Strip, Sunny Side Up Eggs, French Fries: big portions. The medium steak was cooked just right. 5*Pain Perdu-Challah French Toast, Fresh Fruit, Whipped Cream, Vermont Maple Syrup: toasted just right. The best dessert. 4*Bol de Fruits-Fruit Bowl with Fresh Seasonal Berries and Pineapple: it was topped with cream, light and healthy. 5*Trio Creme Brûlée-Vanilla, Cholocate & Seasonal Flavor of Custard Topped with Caramelized Sugar: classic and on the spot. read more

See all

We stopped in for happy hour before an event the other night and we loved this place! We luckily found two seats at the small bar and ordered the smoked salmon croissant and truffle fries for nibbling. They were really good! The fries were very thin and crispy. They came with ketchup and this wonderful mustard. Yum! I had their happy hour bubbly. Wish we could have stayed for a second glass. Definitely have to come back soon! read more

4.5 stars and a great place. 1. Reservation: a must 2. Food: excellent Everything I like in French cuisine in 1 place, which is amazing. Having just come from Paris, I can tell for sure that this place has better French cuisine than most restaurants in France. - escargot: amazing (they do need to serve it with a bread though, had to ask for one was not good) - cheese platter was okay, not as good I hoped it would be, but better than other restaurants in that area - steak was very well done in execution and tasted good 3. Dessert: good Profiterole was delicious. They are 1 of the few places in DC that makes profiterole. 4. Service: professional but our server lady was kinda aloof. I felt uncomfortable. I also hated our table was right next to the station, so when not actively serving, waiters literally standing next to our table and can listen to everything we are talking the whole time was not so good. Still, it is a good place. read more

See all