Little Pearl

Top tier DC restaurant focused around chef prepared 7-course tasting menus. Highly creative, innovative, and delicious. Excellent for dates when you are trying to impress someone or for celebrating something major.

Little Pearl exceeded every expectation. My husband and I visited last Friday and left completely in awe, this place is special in the most understated, genuine way. The venue itself is unique and intimate. It feels considered, personal, and wholly its own thing. The service matched perfectly, it was warm and friendly without ever losing that thread of real knowledge and care. Our team knew the food, knew the story, and made us feel genuinely welcomed rather than just seated. And the food. Chef Ben has always had a gift for making adventurous cooking feel exciting rather than alienating, and he is absolutely thriving here. Every dish was delicious in a way that also surprised us, which is a rare combination. We knew Chef Ben from his time in St. Pete, so getting to experience what he's building in DC felt meaningful on top of everything else. Watching a talented chef find his footing in a space that's truly his own is something worth celebrating and absolutely worth the trip. We will absolutely be back. Little Pearl is one of those restaurants that earns a permanent spot on your list from the very first visit.

Absolutely phenomenal. This could easily have been a 3 star Michelin experience. Every bite was impeccably crafted. You could sense the research and care that went into every element. The pacing was perfect. The staff was lovely. If I had to pick any flaw at all, it would only be that the chairs aren’t the most comfortable. Overall, it was one of the best dining experiences of my life and ranks as high as any other Michelin recommended restaurant I’ve ever been to - topping many of them. I cannot wait to return. Also, don’t hesitate to visit if you’re vegetarian. They don’t phone it in. You’ll receive the same consideration as any other diner.

Overall good experience but I do have some notes! First course was the angel egg and asparagus tart. I absolutely loved the angel eggs, the white meringue like part had a sweet after taste that balanced the creamy yolk part perfectly. The asparagus tart may have been the star of the entire night, the pineapple was very refreshing with the asparagus. The New England clam chowder was good but it is definitely one of those dishes where you should eat everything together each bite. If you eat anything separately it isn’t balanced at all. Amazing though! Another star was the spring egg custard, I was pleasantly surprised by this one. It practically melts in your mouth and the peas give a great crunch. Surprisingly the wagyu beef salad was not our favorite. The flavors were great, but a few of our pieces had gristle or were just straight fat ends with no actual meat to it. With the price and high rating for this place we didn’t expect this. It’s mostly why I ranked it a 4 overall. Lastly the palate cleanser and dessert were stellar. I love toasted coconut so it may be one of my top 5 desserts of all time! We left the restaurant satisfied but not overly full. This may sound big back but I would’ve loved either slightly bigger portions or one other course! With the price I do love leaving the restaurant feeling like I’ve got my money’s worth!

A charming gem set back from a main thoroughfare in the city. Everyone was friendly and the service exceptional. The food and wine pairings were amazing, and they easily accommodate dietary restrictions. They change the menu every few weeks, so it's something to experience at least seasonally.

We had an absolutely fantastic meal. We love Pineapple & Pearls and Rose’s Luxury, and Little Pearl didn’t disappoint — everything was delicious, beautifully prepared, and impressively inventive. The team went above and beyond to accommodate a pescatarian diet, and every dish was spot-on. The staff were incredible and so much fun, making the entire evening memorable. Huge kudos to the kitchen for the creative menu and to the team for the great vibes. We can’t wait to return!

Had an incredible time celebrating our anniversary here. They really made it a unique, custom and unforgettable experience The food was incredible and many of the dishes challenged your expectations (don’t want to give away the secrets 😉). They also gave the cutest cookie & milk as a late night snack!! You can’t book it, only can request it. But ask to eat in the conservatory! Incredible atmosphere. We are concerned it would be cold (was 20F out). But the room was warm and such a cozy feel!!! It is a bit difficult to find parking as many of the surrounding streets are permit only - so give yourself a bit of extra time.

This was from a year ago. 2-3/8 dishes were exceptional!! 1 terrible (okra) and rest were ok. I'd say the non-veg person had a wonderful time/ absolutely loved the food. Can't say the same for vegetarian versions. Great experience but will not go again. If you eat meat- you'd love this place. See the best and the worst (pics)