Just a few short years ago, the D.C. neighborhood of Chinatown was not a place to visit unless there was a sporting event or concert at the former MCI Center. In recent years, however, the area surrounding the now-named Verizon Center has exploded with restaurants, bars and shops, and even a jumbo television that adds to the area’s appeal as a mini Times Square.
The Verizon Center itself is an enclosed arena that seats 20,000 people and hosts basketball games (Washington Wizards, Georgetown Hoyas), hockey games (Washington Capitals) and other special events like concerts, wrestling matches and the circus.
If you’ve snagged tickets to an event at the Verizon Center, make it a night and visit one of the surrounding restaurants for dinner before the event. The center is connected to an entertainment complex of sorts with a few restaurants, a movie theater and a bowling alley all under the same roof.
If time is tight and you need to eat inside the venue, your taste buds won’t be disappointed, but your wallet may be. Prices for a take-away, casual meal like a chicken sandwich or barbecue plate can be upward of $8 and beverages like beer start at around the same price. The best bet is to fuel before entering the arena.
The central location of the arena and its adjacent amenities make the facility a perfect place to catch a live sporting event. With surrounding bars and after-event attractions, the neighborhood does not disappoint when entertainment is on the agenda.
Verizon Center
601 F St NW
Washington, D.C. 20004
Read This Next
Founding Farmers, Washington. D.C.
Restaurant
Jul 16, 2015#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedSurveys
Apr 28, 2025Study Reports Americans Increased Spending on 2025 Spring Break
Spring break may already be in your rearview mirror, and you might be looking forward to your summer vacay — but did you save enough cash after your springtime travel? A new study from Allianz Partners found Americans spent quite a bit more on their spring break trips this year than they did in 2024. The average spring break trip was $5,325 in 2025, more than a 10 percent increase from 2024.
Sponsored Content
AmaWaterways’ Specialty River Cruises
When you embark on a river cruise with award-winning AmaWaterways, unpack once and step aboard a world of unparalleled experiences. With enriching excursions, exquisite locally sourced food and wine, nightly entertainment and more included in the fare, you will learn why AmaWaterways has the most returning guests out of any river cruise line.
Destinations / North America
Apr 28, 2025Your Los Angeles Neighborhood Guide to Hollywood and Griffith Park
With so many iconic locations to see, a trip to Los Angeles, California, may feel overwhelming. Refine your itinerary with this neighborhood guide to Hollywood and Griffith Park.
Technology
Apr 28, 2025App Helping Women Meet Like-Minded Women Moving to New Cities Launches
Already making a name for itself in Europe, Les Amis, a popular app designed to help women meet other like-minded women when they move to new cities, officially makes its debut in the United States. Many young women struggle to find friends and acquaintances when moving to a new city; after all, large cities can be lonely. Les Amis is one solution for many women.
Sponsored Content
Unveiling Europe’s Treasures with AmaWaterways River Cruises
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with AmaWaterways, recognized as Best River Cruise Line by Cruise Critic. What sets AmaWaterways apart is its commitment to offering you the luxury of more. With up to eight daily included excursion options, you have the freedom to tailor your journey to your interests. Whether you're a history buff, a culinary enthusiast or an architecture aficionado, there's something for everyone on the meticulously crafted itineraries. You will also be treated to a range of exquisitely prepared meals in the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant, unlimited wine and beer during lunch and dinner, an array of complimentary host-led fitness classes, and so much more.
Hotel
Apr 25, 2025Experience Local Art at Andaz Hotels This Summer
Andaz properties around the world embrace local art with on-site galleries and partnerships.
ShareThis