This lowkey spot is tucked away on a quaint street corner in Georgetown, which is part of what protects its chill ambience. La Bonne Vache is a great place to just slow down and relax (I frequently bring a book here and read with a glass of wine or soup in hand). The very attentive service—I've been served wine and cocktails while waiting outside in line for a table—adds to the welcoming vibe. Whether seated at the cozy bar or one of the charming bistro tables on the sidewalk, you're bound to feel the stress roll off your shoulders here.
The vibe: Your little corner bistro that's just busy enough to be lively but not so crowded you can't hear or feel overwhelmed. It gets especially nice in here on either a cold, rainy night or a warm, sunny morning; the petite booths and close together tables create a very intimate feeling that just feels cozy.
The food: La Bonne Vache's small and curated menu of comforts makes dinner or brunch a relatively easy series of decisions. The deviled eggs are savory and satisfying, and pillowy gougeres collapse when topped with whipped paprika cream cheese. The steak tartare is melt in your mouth tender. Don't skip out on the burgers, which are delicious and hearty; start with the LBV Classique, which comes topped with red onions and Gruyère fondue.
The drink: The drink offerings here lean heavily on low ABV spirits, so most people can have several drinks comfortably (a particular relief if you're seated at one of the high barstools). Lean into whichever interesting combos are on the menu at a given time, like the Fifi which is made with sorrel liqeur, Lillet blanc, lemon juice, and vermouth.
Time Out tip: The no reservations thing means angling for a table can quickly shatter the relaxing vibe, but you may be able to bypass this by sitting at the bar which is usually far less crowded.