Washington, DC
Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020 – 2024, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Best Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs and Websites from 2021-2024, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023-24, Top 25 Philly Food RSS Feeds in 2024, nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022-24 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment, and WINNER of Metro Philly Newspaper Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment in 2023 and 2024.
Exploring the Flavors of Washington DC: A Culinary Adventure
Washington DC is a city brimming with history, culture, and an impressive array of culinary delights. My recent trip to the nation’s capital was a whirlwind of delicious experiences, and I’m excited to share the highlights of this flavorful journey with you. Washington DC is a city that not only offers rich historical and cultural experiences but also a vibrant and diverse food scene. Each meal I enjoyed was a testament to the city’s culinary excellence, and I’m already looking forward to my next visit to explore more of what DC has to offer. From iconic chili dogs to innovative pizza pies, here’s a rundown of some of the standout meals I enjoyed.
Ben’s Chili Bowl – Washington, DC
No visit to DC is complete without a stop at Ben’s Chili Bowl, an institution in its own right. I sampled the Ben’s Original Half Smoke, a delectable blend of pork and beef served on a warm, steamed bun with mustard, onions, and their homemade spicy chili sauce. The half smoke was perfectly spiced, with the chili adding a delightful kick. Accompanied by a crisp bag of chips, a juicy hamburger, and a generous order of fries, this meal was the epitome of comfort food. Ben’s Chili Bowl is a must-visit for anyone wanting to taste a piece of DC history.
Hill Country Barbecue Market – Washington, DC
For those who love barbecue, Hill Country Barbecue Market is a gem. I opted for the Cue & 2, featuring tender ribs and succulent brisket. The dish came with sides of cornbread, collard greens, baked beans, and a side of BBQ chicken. Each component was expertly prepared—the ribs were smoky and flavorful, while the brisket melted in my mouth. The collard greens and baked beans were the perfect accompaniments, adding a touch of Southern charm to the meal.
Andy’s Pizza NOMA – Washington, DC
If pizza is your thing, Andy’s Pizza in NOMA should be on your list. The Pepperoni Special Pie was a standout, with red sauce, mozzarella, crispy ‘roni cups, creamy burrata, fresh basil, a drizzle of hot honey, and a sprinkle of parmigiano. The combination of spicy pepperoni, sweet hot honey, and the richness of burrata created a pizza that was both unique and incredibly satisfying.
The Bistro at Courtyard Washington, DC/U.S. Capitol – Washington, DC
For a hearty breakfast, The Bistro offered a classic American start to the day. I enjoyed fried eggs served with multigrain bread, crispy bacon, and home fries. The simplicity of the meal was elevated by the quality of the ingredients, making it a perfect breakfast to fuel a day of exploring.
Sweet Home Café – Washington, DC
Located within the National Museum of African American History and Culture, Sweet Home Café is more than just a museum eatery—it’s a culinary experience. The fried chicken was crispy and flavorful, while the collard greens and mac and cheese were comforting and well-seasoned. Each dish told a story of Southern hospitality and tradition.
Old Ebbitt Grill – Washington, DC
A classic DC establishment, Old Ebbitt Grill did not disappoint. I started with a refreshing Gin Rikey and a jumbo shrimp cocktail that was perfectly chilled. The crab cake was a highlight, served with fries that were crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. The BACON-HORSERADISH GLAZED MEATLOAF, accompanied by whipped Yukon gold potatoes, Swiss chard, and remini mushrooms in a rich bordelaise sauce, was a hearty and indulgent dish that showcased the restaurant’s commitment to quality and flavor.
The Creamery at Union Market – Washington, DC
For a sweet treat, The Creamery at Union Market served up a classic vanilla milkshake. Rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced, it was a nostalgic delight that rounded off my day of eating perfectly.
Dàn Dàn Boy by Chinese Street Market DC At Union Market – Washington, DC
Dàn Dàn Boy offered a taste of Sichuan street food with their Sichuan Beef Noodle Soup. The broth was deeply flavorful, and the beef was tender and spicy, just as you’d expect from authentic Sichuan cuisine. It was a warming and satisfying dish that hit all the right notes.
On Toast at Union Market – Washington, DC
The Chicago Style Italian Beef Sandwich from On Toast was a savory treat. The sandwich was packed with flavorful, seasoned beef and topped with giardiniera, delivering a spicy kick and a taste of Chicago in the heart of DC.
Laoban Dumplings at Union Market – Washington, DC
Laoban Dumplings served up a batch of pork soup dumplings that were both delicate and flavorful. Each dumpling burst with savory broth and tender pork, making them a perfect snack to savor between other tastings.
Gloria’s Pupuseria – Washington, DC
Finally, Gloria’s Pupuseria brought a taste of Central America with their Pupusa and Bistec Encebollado. The pupusa was stuffed with cheese and beans, offering a satisfying, comforting bite, while the bistec encebollado, with its flavorful beef and onions, was a standout dish that provided a deliciously spicy kick.
Again, in 2024, Small Bites with Donato Marino and Derek Timm of Bluejeanfood.com was blown away by winning the Best of the Best in the Philadelphia Region Arts & Entertainment category out of 80,000 votes tallied in total through Metro Philly’s Best of Philadelphia for 2024. Truly appreciate everyone who voted for us. We would be thrilled if you voted for us again in 2025.
As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio. For a list of guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:
http://www.bluejeanfood.com/smallbitesradio
#foodradioshowphiladelphia
#FoodRadioShowSouthJersey
#tophospitalityshow
#foodradio
#foodradioshow
#topphiladelphialifestyle
#toplisted
#bestfood
#bestpodcast
#bestofphilly
#bestphillyblog
#bestfoodfeed
#bestphillyartsentertainment
#metrophillybest
BlueJeanFood 