Where to Eat in Washington DC
I recently traveled to Washington DC for the Festival Afro-Bahia. Dining out in Washington DC can be pricey, but even if you don't have that kind of coin you can have a great time if you keep an open mind.
Luke’s Lobster (Penn Quarter)When in the DMV, seafood is par for the course. I googled lobster rolls near my hotel and this came highly recommended on several sites. This spot is casual with a beachy feel. At first, the fact that it wasn’t packed out threw me off, but I quickly realize that its set up to eat and run. I ate outside so that I could people-watch. I was able to unwind a little bit as I watched people I assumed to be government employees buzz by me on cell phones with brown bags. It made me even more grateful for my yummy food!DineWithDani recommends: The Lobster Roll with chips and slaw is the perfect lunch.
Busboys & Poets (Takoma)I love the concept. Part coffee shop and bar. Part bookstore and restaurant. Part performance venue and art gallery. While there are several locations, the one in Takoma may be worth the drive. It was the perfect space to relax after a long day of dance classes with my girls. With several cocktails in us, we may have laughed a little too loudly for the other patrons, but it’s not a library. So… oh well. Best food in DC? No. Great atmosphere for friends and artists? Yes!DineWithDani recommends: The Nachos are enough food for two people! They could actually be an appetizer for four!
Art of Soul (The Liaison Capitol Hill)Yes, there is southern food available just steps away from the U.S. Capitol. It is not soul food and the most soulful thing about the restaurant is the probably the music. But it is definitely inspired by the south. Crab topped deviled eggs, rabbit pot pie and fried chicken thighs are among the offerings. Make sure you get there in time for happy hour. Appetizers are half off and the bar is buzzing. The wait staff is friendly and attentive. So I’d go back even if I wasn’t staying in the hotel.DineWithDani recommends: The Pork Rinds, they are made in house, huge and delicious with a squeeze of lime and a pinch of salt!
Sankofa (Shaw/Columbia Heights)This book store, video store and café is always a highlight of my annual trip to DC. It is in walking distance of the festival site. Honestly, the environment is better than the food. Sometimes there is a DJ and vendors outside selling really cool handmade goods. I love that it is a space that celebrates the African diaspora that still welcomes everyone warmly.DineWithDani recommends: Get a smoothie or some of the baked goods.
Harrar Coffee and Roastery (Columbia Heights)In a world filled with starbucks (which I love), it is nice to know that spots like this still exist. One-off coffee shops and roasters that take care with every detail of their offerings. This spot has so many different coffees made with beans from different regions of the world at different roasts. I enjoyed reading the descriptions and seeing what notes I could actually identify. They had me buzzing through my dance classes. Happily.DineWithDani recommends: Try as many different coffees as you can!
