Bargain Bites

Duke’s Grocery

Micah January 29, 2014

There’s an old cliche that the British have terrible food. I guess it must have come from somewhere, but everything you read (and everything I’ve experienced) indicates that that may be overwrought. And if Duke’s Grocery is an any indication of what they’re doing over in England, I’m moving immediately. Located on 17th St. near such legends as Komi, Little Serow, and Sushi Taro, Duke’s Grocery is a pretty unassuming spot that’s delivering up some some really tasty fare.

Their menu rotates daily (albeit slightly) so make sure you check out Facebook for the daily menu.

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Bargain Bites

Tortilla Cafe

Evan January 16, 2013

If I were to make a list of the places I’ve eaten at most in DC, Tortilla Cafe would easily be in the top three. The Mexican-Salvadoran restaurant, located in Capitol Hill just across from Eastern Market, may have the most reasonable menu in the District. With nothing above $9, most things below $7, and pretty much everything good to eat, Tortilla Cafe should be in everyone’s regular rotation.

Let’s start with breakfast. A stack of pancakes and egg? Only $4.25, and perfectly tasty, if nothing spectacular.

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Bargain Bites

GW Deli

Micah January 15, 2013

Last night I was kicking around a few ideas about where to feature next. And then it hit me, and I thought to myself, duh! GW Deli. How have I not talked about it yet? If you know me you know I love delis and I love GW (cue a snide, “did you go to GW?” from ETD web designer Jordan Sheckman). But it’s true, this place like no other is home. I’ve been eating here for the last seven years (less regularly now), and everytime I bite into a sandwich it tastes exactly like it’s the first time.

Now this is your standard to go counter deli.

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Bargain Bites

The Coffee Bar

Micah January 10, 2013

One of my New Years Resolutions was to learn more about coffee. With Swing’s coming next door to my office, I figured it was about time I learn more about what keeps me going while on the job. No more swill for this foodie. Part of this resolution was to veer away from “corporate coffee.” Call me a snob (I know), call me a jerk (that hurts), I can take it.

What I’m looking for is a neighborhood coffee shop with good pastries, good coffee (I’m not expert on what constitutes good coffee), and a good atmosphere.

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Bargain Bites

Stachowski’s Stacks It High

Micah September 12, 2012

As I said this morning, I love delis. Italian delis, Jewish delis, if they have sandwich I’m all in. The DMV has a lot of great Italian deli options. However, where’s the pastrami? A few spots loom on the horizon (we’re looking at you DGS), but if you’re looking for your handcut Katz-esque pastrami on rye or dark rye you had been pretty much out of luck.

Hold that thought. Stachowski’s in on the scene. I’d been hearing rumors of the mighty deli located in the spot of the old Griffin Market (a place whose closing I mourned).

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Bargain Bites

The Greek Spot

Evan August 23, 2012

It’s a well-worn cliché, whether you’re buying a house or opening a store: it’s all about location, location, location. But when I think about The Greek Spot, located on 11th street just north of U Street, it’s one of the first things that comes to mind. For all that U street has to offer, there are less counter-service restaurants for a quick, cheap bite of food than you’d expect, and The Greek Spot fills this hole with large portions of gyro, souvlaki, and falafel. Whether you’re catching a show at the 9:30 Club or DC9 or are late meeting up with some friends at the bar, The Greek Spot is in the perfect location for you to stop by and fill up.

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Bargain Bites

Tacos El Chilango

Micah August 7, 2012

You’ve already read my review of El Chilango the food truck (if you haven’t read it here). About a month ago it was announced that they would be opening a store on V Street. And then it was announced that it would open my birthday week. And then I found out I was moving 5 blocks away. So consider me excited when I checked it out last week. Would it live up to the truck? Would there be more menu options? Would there be habanero slaw. The answer to all these questions is an emphatic yes.

A heaping plate of goodness

Tacos El Chilango the store lives up to the hype.

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Bargain Bites

Cafe Carvy: Clean Shaven

Steve August 2, 2012

There is a man.  He is behind a counter.  The counter resides at the back of the commercial space at 1020 19th Street NW.  He holds in his hand a blade.  He carves.  Day after day, facing down a large turkey breast and sides of roast beef and ham, he carves.

Located on 19th between K and L, Cafe Carvy is a new sandwich spot serving out their wares during the work day to the suited denizens of the downtown DC business establishment.  They have a relatively small menu but their focus is on their handcarved meats.  

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Bargain Bites

Byblos Deli

Micah July 31, 2012

When you think about Greek food in DC, not a lot comes to mind. Obviously your mind is drawn to Komi, widely regarding as the best restaurant in the city. But you’re not going there every day or to be honest for most us, ever. $150 per person is beyond A Cut Above. So if you’re craving some Greek food, where do you go? The Greek Deli isn’t open for dinner for us non Farragut folks. DC just doesn’t provide a whole lot in the way of Greek. But wait, Cleveland Park once again comes to the rescue. Byblos Deli is out there serving up some mean grub.

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Dangerously Delicious Pies

Evan July 23, 2012

Dessert might just be my favorite meal (and yes, I consider dessert its own meal). The day just doesn’t feel complete without something sweet to eat at the end.  And when frozen yogurt or some cookies just won’t cut it, or when family is in town and we want to go out for dessert, I head over to H Street to Dangerously Delicious Pies.

While Dangerously Delicious Pies also serves savory pies and quiches, I come here exclusively for the sweet pies. When you only make one thing, you better do it right, and Dangerously Delicious Pies typically doesn’t disappoint.  

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