The Dabney in Washington, D.C. offers a culinary journey through the rich traditions of the Mid-Atlantic region, guided by chef Jeremiah Langhorne. Tucked away in the historic Blagden Alley, the restaurant's rustic interior features exposed brick walls, reclaimed wood, and the warm glow of an open hearth that serves as the centerpiece of the space. The atmosphere evokes a sense of intimacy and connection to the region's heritage, setting the stage for a dining experience that is both grounded and sophisticated.Chef Langhorne's approach is deeply rooted in the exploration of local ingredients and historic cooking methods. He draws inspiration from the agricultural bounty of the Mid-Atlantic, collaborating with regional farmers, fishermen, and foragers to source the freshest seasonal produce. This commitment to locality is evident in dishes that highlight the natural flavors of ingredients such as Chesapeake Bay oysters, heirloom grains, and wild mushrooms.The menu at The Dabney changes regularly to reflect the seasons, but consistently showcases thoughtful combinations and meticulous preparation. The use of the wood-fired hearth imparts a distinctive smoky character to many dishes, adding depth and complexity to the flavors. Guests might encounter offerings like hearth-roasted vegetables accentuated with house-made vinegars, or slow-cooked meats accompanied by aromatic herbs and spices native to the region.Presentation at The Dabney is understated yet elegant, allowing the quality of the ingredients to shine. Plates are artfully composed, balancing textures and colors in a way that is pleasing to the eye without being overly elaborate. The focus remains on delivering a genuine representation of Mid-Atlantic cuisine, honoring traditional techniques while incorporating modern sensibilities.The Dabney's dedication to celebrating regional culinary traditions has earned it a Michelin star, recognizing its excellence in the culinary landscape of Washington, D.C. Chef Langhorne's philosophy centers on authenticity and a deep respect for the origins of his ingredients, creating a dining experience that is both meaningful and memorable. For those seeking to explore the flavors of the Mid-Atlantic in a setting that marries rustic charm with refined execution, The Dabney presents a compelling destination.

The Heart of The Dabney

Jeremiah Langhorne honed his craft working for Sean Brock at his paradigm-redefining Southern restaurant McCrady’s in Charleston, South Carolina, before undertaking a philosophy-shifting stage at Noma in Copenhagen. In 2013, he returned home to Washington, D.C., with one goal: to open a groundbreaking restaurant that would pay homage to the cuisine and foodways of the Mid-Atlantic. Achieving this required extensive research and development. “I wanted to dig in,” he says. “The best way to dig in is to get to know the people who are actually catching, growing, finding, and doing things.”

Langhorne assembled a network of farmers, foragers, fishermen, and artisans, ensuring year-round access to the best produce, proteins, and wild ingredients in the Chesapeake Bay region. His menu evolves with the seasons, featuring dishes such as blue catfish sliders on sweet potato Parker House rolls, sour corn hush puppies with buttermilk dressing, hay-smoked Shenandoah Valley lamb tartare, and grilled Cape Charles rockfish with a flurry of Périgord black truffles. Built on tradition yet fueled by innovation, The Dabney is both a portal to the past and a picture of the present.

Nestled in Blagden Alley, The Dabney’s rustic, colonial-inspired aesthetic provides an apropos backdrop for its neo-vintage fare. Aglow with sepia-toned lighting and flickering tabletop candles, the dining room features exposed brick walls, pine floors, and reclaimed wood tables. Along its eastern wall, the open kitchen showcases a custom-built grill over an open hearth, where much of the cooking takes place.

Langhorne’s live-fire cooking has ignited a blaze of high-profile recognition, including a Michelin star and the top spot on Washingtonian’s 100 Best Restaurants list in 2023.

The Chef

Jeremiah Langhorne is a James Beard Award-winning chef and the owner of The Dabney in Washington, D.C. Known for his dedication to Mid-Atlantic cuisine, Langhorne celebrates the region’s history, ingredients, and culinary traditions through live-fire cooking and hyper-local sourcing.

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