Unearth The Voyage
Washington D.C. tourists flock to famous restaurants, but the real treasures hide in plain sight. Locals guard these culinary secrets jealously, whispering recommendations only to their closest friends. These unassuming spots serve incredible food without the crowds or inflated prices. Ready to eat like a true Washingtonian?
1. Well Dressed Burrito – The Alley Champion
Tucked away in a narrow alley near 19th Street, this Tex-Mex treasure has been quietly serving monster-sized burritos since 1986. Most people walk right past without noticing the humble entrance.
Their daily specials change based on what’s fresh, but the generous portions and bold flavors never disappoint. Locals love the chimichangas and enchiladas that arrive steaming hot with perfectly seasoned fillings.
2. Panda Gourmet – Hotel Lobby Surprise
Who expects authentic Szechuan cuisine inside a Days Inn lobby? This bizarre location on New York Avenue houses one of DC’s best-kept Chinese food secrets.
The extensive menu features genuine Shaanxi snacks, aromatic barbecued meats, and soul-warming soups that transport you straight to China. Regular customers drive across town specifically for dishes you won’t find anywhere else in the city.
3. Granville Moore’s – Stone House Gastropub
This converted stone row house on H Street Corridor feels more like a friend’s living room than a restaurant. The intimate atmosphere draws neighborhood regulars who treat it like their personal dining room.
Belgian-inspired comfort food dominates the menu, with their famous gnocchi mac and cheese becoming legendary among locals. The mussel preparations change seasonally, always featuring creative flavor combinations that keep people coming back.
4. Lincoln’s Waffle Shop – Downtown Breakfast Haven
This old-school diner on 10th Street serves breakfast that makes downtown office workers arrive early just to snag a table. The retro atmosphere feels authentically timeless, not artificially vintage.
Their chicken and waffles have achieved near-mythical status among locals, while fruit-topped pancakes provide a lighter option. Home fries come perfectly crispy, and the eggs are cooked exactly how you order them every single time.
5. El Sol – Traditional Mexican Corner Gem
Authentic Mexican decor creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere on 11th Street Northwest that makes you forget you’re still in DC. Families gather here for genuine recipes passed down through generations.
Their signature huaraches arrive loaded with beans, fresh cheese, tender cactus, cooling sour cream, and crisp lettuce. Each bite delivers complex flavors that showcase traditional Mexican cooking techniques rarely found in typical American Mexican restaurants.
