What we’re about
We’re passionate about great food, delicious drinks, and even better company. Join us for fun dining experiences where we share good eats, good drinks, and unforgettable conversations! Formerly known as The Weekly Dinner - DC, we’re now rebranded as DC Metro Dining.
Review our group policies and resources before attending:
- No-Show / Late Cancel Policy: Read the full policy document here
- Group FAQs: Access the complete FAQ guide here
After taking a break since COVID, be sure to check your email associated with our group. Please whitelist it or mark it as safe to stay updated on all our events and directevent host communications.
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Quick Start FAQ – The Weekly Dinner Group
What is The Weekly Dinner?
We’re a group of social food lovers who explore DC restaurants together. Most events are dinners, but we also do brunches, happy hours, and occasional extras like a boozy milkshake crawl.
How many people usually attend?
Before the pandemic, we often had 20+ people across multiple tables. These days we keep things smaller, usually 6–14, depending on the restaurant’s space and staffing. It makes dinners easier to manage and more enjoyable for conversation.
Will I be the only newcomer?
Not at all. About one-quarter of attendees at any given dinner are first-timers, so you’ll always meet new faces.
Is this a singles group?
No. Absolutely not. The group is about food, friends, and community. While several marriages and long-term relationships have started here, that’s not our purpose. People attend solo, with friends, or as couples. We aim for a safe, comfortable space for everyone. If attraction happens, keep it mutual and respectful—swap numbers after the event, and please skip PDA during dinner.
How do I RSVP?
Go to the event page and click “Yes.” If your plans change, update your RSVP right away so someone on the waitlist can join.
Why does RSVP matter?
Restaurants set tables for the exact headcount we provide. No-shows leave empty seats, prevent waitlisted members from attending, and can even lead to charges if the restaurant bills per seat.
How is the bill handled?
Most of the time you pay for your own meal. Shared-plate dinners may be split evenly.
What about gratuity?
Large reservations, especially during Restaurant Week, often include a fixed 20% pre-tax gratuity. All attendees are required to accept this as part of attending. Think of it as the only “membership fee” we have—except it goes directly to the staff.
How long are dinners?
Plan for 2.5 to 3 hours. Some members head to a nearby bar or lounge afterward, but that’s optional.
What’s the No-Show policy?
- First no-show: you’ll be asked for a brief explanation. No response may impact membership.
- Second no-show within three months: removal from the group.
Upcoming events
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DC Late Fall Dining – Modern American at Annabelle (Kalorama / Dupont)
Annabelle, 2132 Florida Ave NW, Washington, DC, USOrganizer Joe invites you to an elegant evening at Annabelle, part of Ashok Bajaj’s Knightsbridge group and initially launched in 2020 by James Beard Award–winning Chef Frank Ruta. Expect polished, modern American cooking with a focus on seasonality and detail.
FOOD: Annabelle showcases modern American cuisine, and was recognized in the 2024 Michelin Guide, which means inspectors deemed it a high-quality restaurant.
Executive Chef Michael Fusano took over about a year ago and has a long pedigree, starting at Noe Restaurant in downtown Los Angeles. Most recently in DC he's worked at Casa Luca and Sfoglina. He's gotten great reviews manning the kitchen in the last year as evident by the 2024 Michelin Guide listing. Pastry Chef Bella Paul is a standout and makes amazing desserts, save some room!
Recent standouts include homemade pastas (such as the risotto with crab), seared halibut, and tri-tip. The gnocchi with black trumpet mushrooms is another favorite, often mentioned by returning diners. The menu is seasonal & factors ingredient availability though, so review the current menu for a current representation (see link below). Very good cocktail & wine program here as well.
--> Check out the full dinner menu
→ Visit Annabelle DC’s website to learn more
SPACE: Annabelle offers a refined, intimate setting with soft lighting and a relaxed elegance. It’s upscale without being stuffy—perfect for good conversation and a great meal.
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==> Tax/Tip combo is our required 30% tax/tip policy (no exceptions)
==> Limited to 8 slotsCLOSEST METRO: Dupont Circle (Red Line), ~10 min walk. Take the North/Q Street exit, walk west on Q Street to 20th St NW, turn left and continue to Florida Ave NW, then turn right to reach 2132 Florida Ave NW.
For trip planning, try WMATA’s “Plan a Trip” feature at www.wmata.com
PARKING: Street parking is tight during dinner hours—consider Metro, rideshare, or garage options in the area.
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Attendance Notes:
- If you RSVP “YES,” please commit to showing up. With 5,800+ members and limited seating, we can’t afford no-shows. It’s not fair to other members or to our relationship with the restaurant.
- No-Show / Late Cancel rules apply (see links below).
- Can’t get a slot? Join the Waitlist and check back frequently—spots often open up before Noon on the day of the event. You may also receive midweek confirmation emails to reconfirm your RSVP, so please check your inbox.
- Billing Reminder: Add 30% for tax and tip to your food and drink total. This is part of our group’s expectations and helps smooth out service with the restaurant.
- New Members / 1st Timers: Visit our FAQs and No-Show Policy if you're unfamiliar with how we run things.
Looking forward to dining with you!
– JoeN
1 attendee
Past events
1001
