Image: New art.
Last Updated: October 2021
Current Status: Indoor and outdoor dining available (though check on outdoor as it cools down). Take-out and delivery also available. Open for lunch (it is after all a Washington power spot) and dinner. Closed Sundays.
Overview: Now into its fourth decade of existence, The Bombay Club recently got a do-over, replacing the Raj aesthetic with something more sleek and reflective of the times. It remains one of the better dining options in downtown, especially if you are looking for an alternative to steak houses (and why wouldn’t you be?). The menu also got a bit of a refresh to supplement longstanding favorites like Tandoori Salmon and spicy Lamb Vindaloo. On a recent visit the Dahi Puri Chaat puffs with avocado, mango, and yogurt were sublime. The wine list is chock full of options to pair with the variety of dishes – and the team enjoys talking about the list, so let them help you find a gem.
The Bombay Club’s location near the White House has made it a power lunch spot for years. The service is clearly trained and attuned to the potential status of its guests. That adult ambiance is reinforced with a piano playing in the background, and request on the site to dress appropriately (though no jacket is required for gentlemen), and a warning that they have no highchairs or room for strollers.
Gift Cards (good at all the restaurant group places).
Summary:
Cuisine: Indian
Neighborhood: Downtown
Address: 815 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington DC
Website: http://bombayclubdc.com/
Reservations: Opentable
Other Critics/Voices:
Washington Post: Post-makeover version is listed in the Fall 2021 Dining Guide. Also made the 2019 Guide in the “Classics” category.
Washingtonian: Preview of the made over spot. #66 in 2019 100 Best of DC; #75 in 2018; And many others over the years (including 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017). Made a “Best Indian” list in 2004.
Michelin: Listed as one of the five best Indian spots in D.C., yet unrated in the Guide.