Washington D.C. Video

Culinary Journeys: Street Foods of Washington D.C. to Try

Washington D.C., the capital of the United States, is not only known for its political significance but also for its vibrant food scene. The city is home to a diverse range of street food vendors, offering a variety of delicious and unique culinary experiences. From food trucks to market stalls, Washington D.C. has something to satisfy every palate. In this article, we will explore the street foods of Washington D.C. that are a must-try for any food lover.

1. Half-Smoke from Ben’s Chili Bowl

• Half-Smoke with Chili and Cheese: A flavorful sausage made with a combination of beef and pork, grilled to perfection and served on a warm bun. It is then topped with a generous amount of chili and melted cheese, creating a mouthwatering combination of flavors.
• Ben’s Chili Bowl has been serving this iconic dish since 1958 and has become a landmark in Washington D.C. It is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the city’s street food culture.

Keywords: Half-Smoke, Ben’s Chili Bowl, sausage, chili, cheese

2. Ethiopian Cuisine at Union Market

• Injera with Doro Wat: Injera, a traditional Ethiopian flatbread, serves as the base for Doro Wat, a spicy chicken stew. The combination of the tangy injera and flavorful stew creates a unique and satisfying taste.
• Union Market is a popular food hall in Washington D.C. where you can find a variety of Ethiopian food vendors. It’s a great place to explore the rich flavors of Ethiopian cuisine.

Keywords: Ethiopian cuisine, Injera, Doro Wat, Union Market, spicy chicken stew

3. Crab Cake Sandwich from Faidley’s Seafood

• Crab Cake Sandwich: A Maryland specialty, this sandwich features a crab cake made with fresh lump crab meat, seasoned with Old Bay seasoning, and served on a soft bun. It is often accompanied by tartar sauce and lettuce.
• Faidley’s Seafood, located in the historic Lexington Market, is renowned for its delicious crab cakes. The family-owned business has been serving this local favorite for over 130 years.

Keywords: Crab Cake Sandwich, Faidley’s Seafood, Maryland, lump crab meat, Old Bay seasoning

4. Peruvian Chicken at El Pollo Rico

• Peruvian-style Rotisserie Chicken: El Pollo Rico specializes in marinated and rotisserie-cooked chicken, seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices. The result is tender and flavorful chicken with a crispy skin.
• El Pollo Rico is a popular spot in Arlington, just outside of Washington D.C., known for its mouthwatering Peruvian chicken. It is often served with a side of rice, beans, and salad.

Keywords: Peruvian Chicken, El Pollo Rico, rotisserie, herbs, spices

5. Empanadas from Julia’s Empanadas

• Empanadas: These savory pastries are filled with a variety of ingredients such as beef, chicken, cheese, or vegetables. They are then baked or fried to perfection, creating a crispy and flavorful snack.
• Julia’s Empanadas is a local favorite in Washington D.C., offering a wide selection of empanadas with various fillings. It’s a great place to grab a quick and satisfying bite.

Keywords: Empanadas, Julia’s Empanadas, pastries, beef, chicken, cheese, vegetables

6. Korean BBQ at Seoul Food

• Bulgogi Rice Bowl: Bulgogi, a Korean marinated beef, is grilled to perfection and served on a bed of steamed rice. It is often accompanied by kimchi, pickled vegetables, and a fried egg.
• Seoul Food is a popular food truck in Washington D.C. that specializes in Korean cuisine. Their flavorful and satisfying dishes are a hit among locals and visitors alike.

Keywords: Korean BBQ, Seoul Food, Bulgogi, rice bowl, kimchi, pickled vegetables

7. Salvadoran Pupusas at El Tamarindo

• Pupusas: These thick corn tortillas are filled with a variety of ingredients such as cheese, beans, and meats. They are then grilled until golden brown and served with a side of curtido, a tangy cabbage slaw.
• El Tamarindo is a popular Salvadoran restaurant in Washington D.C., known for its authentic pupusas. It’s the perfect place to indulge in this traditional Central American dish.

Keywords: Salvadoran Pupusas, El Tamarindo, corn tortillas, cheese, beans, curtido

8. Vietnamese Banh Mi at Banh Mi DC Sandwich

• Banh Mi Sandwich: This Vietnamese sandwich features a crusty baguette filled with a variety of ingredients such as grilled pork, pickled vegetables, cilantro, and mayonnaise. It is a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
• Banh Mi DC Sandwich is a popular food truck in Washington D.C. that specializes in Banh Mi. Their sandwiches are made with fresh and high-quality ingredients, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal.

Keywords: Vietnamese Banh Mi, Banh Mi DC Sandwich, baguette, grilled pork, pickled vegetables

9. Turkish Doner Kebab at Istanbul Grill

• Doner Kebab: This traditional Turkish dish consists of thinly sliced meat, typically lamb or chicken, slow-cooked on a vertical rotisserie. It is then served in a warm pita bread with a variety of toppings and sauces.
• Istanbul Grill is a popular Turkish restaurant in Washington D.C. that offers authentic Doner Kebabs. Their flavorful and tender meat, combined with fresh ingredients, creates a truly satisfying meal.

Keywords: Turkish Doner Kebab, Istanbul Grill, rotisserie, lamb, chicken, pita bread

10. Indian Street Food at Rasika West End

• Pani Puri: This popular Indian street food consists of crispy hollow puris filled with a mixture of spiced potatoes, chickpeas, and tamarind chutney. It is then topped with a tangy and spicy mint water.
• Rasika West End is a renowned Indian restaurant in Washington D.C. that offers a modern twist on traditional Indian cuisine. Their Pani Puri is a must-try for those looking to explore the flavors of Indian street food.

Keywords: Indian Street Food, Rasika West End, Pani Puri, puris, spiced potatoes, chickpeas, tamarind chutney

Conclusion

Washington D.C. is a treasure trove of street foods that showcase the city’s culinary diversity. From iconic dishes like the Half-Smoke from Ben’s Chili Bowl to international flavors like Peruvian Chicken and Indian Street Food, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Exploring the street food scene of Washington D.C. is not only a delicious experience but also a way to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the city.

References

• Ben’s Chili Bowl – www.benschilibowl.com
• Union Market – www.unionmarketdc.com
• Faidley’s Seafood – www.faidleyscrabcakes.com
• El Pollo Rico – www.elpolloricorestaurant.com
• Julia’s Empanadas – www.juliasempanadas.com
• Seoul Food – www.seoulfooddc.com
• El Tamarindo – www.eltamarindodc.com
• Banh Mi DC Sandwich – www.banhmidcsandwich.com
• Istanbul Grill – www.istanbulgrilldc.com
• Rasika West End – www.rasikarestaurant.com