Oh La La! 5 Top DC Places to Fête French National Day

It’s about more than berets, baguettes, and La Boum. Bastille Day, the name for French National Day, actually marks the beginning of the French Revolution with the Storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789.

On July 14th each year, francophiles around the world now celebrate all things French — and you can, too! Here in the District, there are plenty of places to recognize outstanding French cuisine and culture.

Here are some of our favorite special events and places in DC to fête Bastille Day (and Week) this year:

• • Opaline Bar & Brasserie brings Paris back to Lafayette Square with their annual Bastille Day Celebration on Friday, July 14 from 4:30pm to 9:30pm. Guests will enjoy a magnifique French fare menu created by Executive Chef Kevin Lalli, French-inspired cocktails, and entertainment by French D.J.  David Dupree.  Wear your best Parisian attire and you just might win an overnight stay at the Sofitel!
  • Stop by the Wharf ‘s Bistro Du Jour on Bastille Day during breakfast, lunch, or dinner to get a little slice of Paris with limited-time specials. Celebrate with a glass of champagne and your favorite French dish.
  • Just steps from the White House, you can enjoy the great gastronomie of France with a special Bastille Day prix-fixe menu at La Bise from 4:30 pm to 10 pm. Executive Chef Michael Fusano will offer a three-course culinary celebration of French fare to celebrate the day, priced at $75 per person, or $135 with wine pairings (excluding tax and gratuity). Standouts include the Summer Black Truffle Risotto, Mediterranean Sea Bass, and Steak au Poivre.

    

  • You have a couple of days to savor the Steak Frites, Ratatouille, and wine specials that celebrate Bastille Day at Lutèce (7/14 – 7/16). Also, Advanced Sommelier Chris Ray has selected three magnifique wines that you won’t want to miss.
  • And all week long Central Michel Richard is hosting its nod to Netflix and outstanding French fare (and flair!) with its “Emily (& Michel) in Paris” party (7/10-14). The legendary bistro is bedecked with French flags, servers don berets, and Executive Chef David Barigault has a menu of special dishes, classic French cocktails, and wines and surprise and delight. AND Central will cap the week with an “Emily in Paris” party on Bastille Day – July 14 – from 4:30 until 7 pm on its patio and bar, so plan your outrageous outfit and don’t be ringard!