Tyler Cowen's Ethnic Dining Guide

Antipuqueño Restaurant (also Intipuqueno), web site, 2504 Ennalls Avenue, Wheaton, MD, 301-942-1129 (web site says place is for sale)

This place is a total wreck and mess when it comes to service, décor, and organization. They also serve the best pupusas I’ve eaten in the U.S., ever. It’s worth it. The soups look pretty good too. The menu is ghastly in its presentation and it doesn’t list a lot of what they serve. Just try to talk your way into what you want to eat. The cute waitresses will giggle and mess up your order, but they do know what a pupusa is. I call this a find, though you need to go with the proper expectations.

China Jade, web site, 16805 Crabbs Branch Way, The Grove Shopping Center, Rockville, MD, 301-963-1570 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | Don Rockwell | Yelp]

This is run by the same people who do Hong Kong Palace and it has pretty much the same menu. Oddly, for a new branch, it is not quite as good as the home base. Their braised pork belly is much superior, but the five other dishes we tried were all lesser than at Falls Church. They were still pretty good and if you live in Maryland you may wish to come here. But right now it isn’t worth the trip from VA. It may yet improve, we will see. It also has a less interesting atmosphere and décor than the home branch.

Spice Xing, web site, 100 Gibbs Street, Rockville, MD, 301-610-0303 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | WashTimes | Yelp | Gayot]

Right now this is one of the three or four best Indian places around. Gibbs St. is not the obvious place to go eat in Rockville, but the food here is genuinely excellent.

The dishes are truly spiced and I don’t just mean hot. (The level of heat is quite bearable, though present.) The spices are fresh and taste like a genuine part of each recipe. It’s not a mom and pop, as it actually looks like a nice restaurant, which indeed it is. Some of the cooking has a Parsee slant, to my taste, such as mixing lamb and fruit. I was especially fond of the chicken with spinach.

Sichuan Pavilion, 410 Hungerford Drive, Rockville, MD, just north of Rockville Town Centre, invisibly deep into a strip mall with “Saigon” restaurant and Revere Bank. Enter on the north side of Beall Avenue (south side of the restaurant) between North Washington Street and Hungerfod Drive, across street from Taste of Saigon and the library, about 600 feet southeast of Bob's Noodle 66. Don’t miss it! 240-403-7351, book in advance! (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [City Paper | Gazette.Net | Don Rockwell | Yelp]

Wow and double wow.

Get the Dan Dan Noodles and the Jelly Noodles. Get dumplings and more dumpling-like phenomena. This is the most authentic Sichuan restaurant around and it makes Hong Kong Palace look like Burger King. I haven’t yet “cracked” the best dishes on the main menu (I did like the crispy potato but thought the Chengdu chicken only decent), but it doesn’t matter. Just choosing from the starting, first section of the menu makes this a “Top Five” restaurant. First-rate ambience and clientele as well.

Highly recommended.

Outside from Beall Street side looking north - Washington Street is to the left, Hungerford Drive is to the right

Soy beans with jelly noodles

Mmmmmmm

Beef tendon

Green beans

Fish

Chicken

Michael’s Noodle House, 10038 Darnestown Road, Rockville, MD, 301-738-0370 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Gazette.net | Washingtonian | SilverChips | Yelp | Gayot]

Imagine a combination of A&J and Hong Kong Palace and you have what is perhaps the best Chinese restaurant in this area right now. The dishes are a mix of Sichuan, Taiwanese, and Manchurian.

It has the best noodles and best dumplings around; the Sichuan wontons are a must. Shredded tofu is great. Singapore Noodle is surprisingly good and quite subtle. Pork with spicy noodles, in various incarnations, is excellent. I’ve yet to try the soups but they looks very good. Go mostly with the smaller dishes.

The décor is slightly nicer than at most Mom and Pops, the owners are Taiwanese, not so much English is spoken by the staff, and it draws an older Chinese crowd, less raucous than many other excellent Chinese places. Highly recommended.

Caribbean Sea Seafood Restaurant, 6869 New Hampshire Avenue, Takoma Park, MD, 301-891-3497, closed Mondays. It is hard to see from New Hampshire but it is there, if you are coming from Univ. Blvd. it is on the left just a bit past East-West Highway, tucked away in a strip mall, removed from the street. (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | Yelp]

Lots of lobster, lots of conch, lots of shrimp and fish. This is neither a subtle restaurant nor a restaurant with many different tastes and flavors. But their best flavors are very good indeed. Their devil sauce is one of the best spicy sauces around. It’s not just hot it has real oomph in the soul. Good rice too. This is a very specialized restaurant but also a very good restaurant. High marks for atmosphere too, although note that the lobster is not cheap.

Texas Ribs and BBQ, web site, 7701 Old Branch Avenue, Clinton, MD, 301-877-0323 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Gazette.net | City Paper | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

I had high hopes going to this place, which many describe as the best BBQ around. On the plus side I’ll give it high marks for atmosphere and authenticity. It really is Texas-style barbecue and the beans and bread are pretty good too. The problem is that the meat isn’t great. The ribs were downright mediocre. The brisket was better, OK I would say, but not good enough to drive around the Beltway for. Until I hear more entreaties, I’m not going back. But I would continue to go if I lived next door.

Ray’s the Classics, 8606 Colesville Road, Silver Spring, MD, right across from AFI, 301-588-7297 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [WaPo | Don Rockwell | openlist | Yelp]

Retro dining, chops, big plates of big stuff, like they used to serve in 1976. It’s pretty good for a change of pace. For me, this is what now counts as “exotic.” I like the spinach too.

Nava Thai, web site, 11301 Fern Street, Wheaton, MD, 240-430-0495 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | Don Rockwell | Yelp]

At any point in time there are four or five ethnic places which are way better than the rest. Nava Thai joins that select group. Everything tastes so real and it is the closest thing to Thai street food that I’ve had in the U.S. The Floating Market Soup is excellent, although too spicy for many. The Penang Curry – usually a boring dish – is a revelation. The tamarind sauce on the roast chicken is very good. The curry puffs are recommended as well. The service can be a little slow and not every dish is great (though all are at least good if you are confused just mimic the Thai customers with your order), but right now this is one of the places to visit. It also attracts more Thai customers than any other place with the possible exception of Thai Square.

Bombay Indian Restaurant, web site, 11229 New Hampshire Avenue, White Oak Shopping Center, Silver Spring, MD, 301-593-7222 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper]

This place has gotten very good reviews and in fact it is now one of the premier Indian restaurants around. Very consistent with some Kashmiri inspirations. Rich spicing, though without being too hot. The bread with the cherries and nuts is one special dish you can get here but most of it is excellent. It's not near anything else you might visit, but worth the trip.

Peking Eastern House (Dong Lai Shun), web site, 617 S. Frederick Avenue, Gaithersburg, MD, 301-963-1426 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [This is Gonna Be Good | zabihah | Gazette.net | Yelp]

This is a real Chinese Muslim restaurant! I liked the humburgers [sic] best of all. Get lots of meat dishes, get lots of cumin, get noodles. Ask for help. Don’t let them pawn off their standard “Chinese” food on you. Be aggressive and firm. Just don't expect any pork...

Brazil Market, 11425 Grandview Avenue, Wheaton, MD, 301-942-8412 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian]

They have Brazilian sandwiches, snacks, canned goods, and fried yucca thingies. Not an amazing selection but if you are yearning for a touch of Brazil this does in fact supply it.

Hollywood East Cafe on the Boulevard, web site, 2621 University Blvd., Wheaton, MD, 240-290-9988 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | Yelp | Gayot]

Right now this is the best dim sum place around. They don’t just churn out the usual stuff, they are consistently interesting and make the dim sum with care. At times you might be frustrated by the delays, but that’s part of the signal of quality. First-rate greens too. I might add that they make stuff in batches, and you should stick around for about two hours, and save up space in your stomach, rather than filling up right away. Go slow, slow, slow, and make an afternoon of it.

Paul Kee, 11305-B Georgia Avenue, Wheaton, MD, 301-933-6886 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | Yelp]

One of the best Cantonese places around, although you hardly ever hear of it. Excellent seafood. I like the scallops in pepper sauce, among other dishes. There are also the casseroles, and make sure you get some greens to round out the combination.

Ceviche, web site (flash and music), 921-J Ellsworth Drive, Silver Spring, MD, 301-608-0081 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Silver Spring Voice | Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | Don Rockwell]

I went here with about seven people and sampled many dishes. I thought the rice was quite good, the ceviche pretty good. They have lots of Peruvian dishes you can’t find elsewhere. All a good recipe, but somehow I ended up a bit underwhelmed. I wouldn’t mind going back, but I’m not pushing to either. It’s in “that part” of Silver Spring and appeals almost exclusively to yuppies. It’s missing a certain edge. It’s still pretty good, though, and never to go is probably a mistake. Not super cheap like some ethnic places, but cheaper than most other places for yuppies.

Bob's 88 Shabu Shabu, 316 N. Washington Street, Rockville, MD, 301-294-5888 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | Don Rockwell | Gayot]

Update February 2009: now closed.

The Chinese consider 88, like 66, to be a lucky number, of course this is also the Bob of Bob’s Noodle 66, one of the best Chinese places around. Shabu refers to dipping your food into a boiling pot to cook it. In general I am opposed to this idea, rarely are the results very interesting. But this is a worthwhile restaurant.

You must get your boiling mix to be “very spicy,” then you must order the most complex combination of stuff possible to put into the mix (this will depend on how many people you have). The results are genuinely delicious. I thought the fish was especially good. I might add there is a second menu, small but similar to part of the 66 place, which taken alone would make this one of the best Chinese restaurants around. No matter which route you wish to go, this place is worth trying.

More

• Lucky Phone Number Costs $44,000
• Chinese Business Culture -- Gift Giving
• Prosper with 8 88 888 88888 (scroll down)

Indique Heights, web site, 2 Wisconsin Circle, Chevy Chase, MD, 301-656-4822 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | MenuPages | City Paper | Gayot]

From the people who brought you Indique. I used to love Indique, but I fear the brand is being diluted. This one is pretty good, and certainly worth trying. The Fried Syrian Lamb is a very good dish or appetizer, especially if you don’t mind strong cardamom. But I just don’t feel the same excitement here as I did at Indique when it opened. The restaurant is defined by small plates, which is a good sign. I am told you should try the shallot potatoes. And it is a very nice place to sit, and the best restaurant in its immediate area. For me it is lacking that excitement factor, though I liked what I had.

Mama Leah's Gourmet Pizza (kosher pizza), web site, 4836 Boiling Brook Parkway, Rockville, MD, Randolph Hills Shopping Center, 301-770-1781, their hours observe the Sabbath (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window)

CLOSED.

Aling Pacing, 2311 Price Avenue, Wheaton, MD, 301-933-7070, not always open for lunch on weekdays (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window)

Is this place closed?

See the remarks above on Filipino food under Little Quiapo. This one looks less appetizing, however, although it is easier to find. Oxtail and peanut sauce are often good Pilipino dishes, adobe too.

El Pulgarcito del Callao, 11333 Elkin Street, Silver Spring, MD, 301-942-5395 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [City Paper | Yelp]

Peruvian, El Salvadorean, and Mexican dishes, but Peruvian at its core. I have yet to try it.

Julita’s Restaurant: A Spanish Flavor, 6521 Riggs Road, just a bit away from University Blvd., Hyattsville, MD, 301-559-0958 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window)

I have yet to go. Supposedly it has Spanish and Caribbean food, drop me a line if you have been there, the place does not appear to fit the usual categories.

Crisfield's, web site, 8012 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring, MD, 301-589-1306 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

Just off Georgia Ave. Plain fish of high quality. The Art Deco architecture and atmosphere is stunning. Is this 1953 or what? Great clock. Order the Flounder stuffed with crabmeat. Don't expect so much from the salads or soups, however. Not cheap, but a treat. The accompanying visit to Silver Spring is an object lesson in how Maryland and Virginia differ. A great place to bring visitors who want to see something they will remember.

Royal Mile Pub, web site, 2407 Price Avenue, Wheaton, MD, 301-946-4511 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | Don Rockwell | openlist | Yelp]

Let’s hope they can fit as many Indians into that place as possible, as quickly as possible.

Temari, 1043 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD, 301-340-7720 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

Highly authentic, too authentic some would say. Right next to a Japanese store and Japanese supermarket; patronized primarily by Japanese. More a cafe than a restaurant. If pork cutlet doused in ketchup is your thing, this is the place to go. Here you will encounter the other side of Japanese food.

Rainbow, 312 E. Diamond Avenue, Gaithersburg, MD, 301-947-0099, open daily 11-9 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [City Paper | food-plan | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

I don’t usually cover the dining paradise that we call Gaithersburg, but West African places are hard to find. I have yet to go. The cooks are from Ghana and Sierra Leone.

Izora, 1115 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD, 301-495-2960 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Silver Spring Voice | Washingtonian | openlist | Yelp]

UPDATE May 20, 2006: A commenter says Izora is closed, replaced by Gallery with Carribbean and Latin food, web site, 1115 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD, 301-589-2555. I haven't been.

Or is this place Caribbean? Should it go under Nigerian? East-West Highway is prime territory for undiscovered spicy food, let me know if you visit this place.

Congress African Restaurant, 6834 New Hampshire Avenue, Takoma Park, MD (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window)

This place looks like a total dump and when I drove by it was closed. A report would be welcome…it appears to have promise…

Green Papaya, web site (Flash), 4922 Elm Street, Bethesda, MD, 301-654-8986, near Woodmont Avenue (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | Don Rockwell | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

The Maryland equivalent of Minh’s. Good enough if you live too far from Eden Center, but frankly I feel sorry for you. Ten years ago Maryland had better ethnic food than Virginia, now the reverse is clearly true.

Roger Miller Restaurant, 941 Bonifant Street, Silver Spring, MD, 301-650-2495 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Silver Chips Online | Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | openlist | Yelp]

I love the name (named after a Cameroonian football player). It is probably the best general African restaurant around right now, although it is not the best we have had in the last ten years. The chef is from Cameroon, but you will find dishes from Senegal, Nigeria, and Ghana as well.

Thai Seafood and Grill, The romance Restaurant, web site, 2732 Crain Highway, Waldorf, MD, 301-932-4388 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Yelp]

I’ve given up adding random Thai places to this list. There are too many of them, and too few are unique. But an avid reader recommends this one, plus Wheaton and environs is probably the best neighborhood for Thai restaurants. I bet this one is worth a try.

Benjarong, web site, 855-C Rockville Pike, Wintergreen Shopping Center, Rockville, MD, 301-424-5533, closed Sunday lunch (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

A very good Thai place, somewhat more expensive than most but also nicer than average and better than average.

Dusit, 2404 University Boulevard West, Silver Spring, MD, Wheaton, 301-949-4140 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | City Paper | openlist | Yelp]

Wheaton is an ethnic food center, and here is one of its Thai places. There are many Thai places in Maryland, and as far as I can tell, they are all excellent.

Suporn, web site, 2304 Price Avenue, Silver Spring, MD, 301-946-7613 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | Yelp]

One of the best Thai places around, it has real bite. Thai food is going the way of Chinese food, where most restaurants have the same menu and same taste. Not this one. Most of the dishes sound ordinary but don’t be put off by that.

Sol de Espana, web site, 838-C Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD, 240-314-0202 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | City Paper | Don Rockwell | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

A new Spanish place, from the former managers of Andalucia, in Bethesda. In other words, they had to lower their rent, so they reinvented their place. The core problem is that our Taberna is one of the best Spanish restaurants in the world outside of Spain. So why visit the others? But if you do, get the shellfish.

Cancun, 11260 Georgia Avenue, Wheaton, MD, 301-949-9838 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Yelp]

Mostly a Mexican and El Salvadorean restaurant, but they serve some Puerto Rican specialties on weekends. Sleeveless shirts are not allowed, that kind of place. Alas, no mofongos, however, which means not enough garlic for my taste.

See also Banana Café, under Cuban, they have some Puerto Rican dishes.

Tavira, web site, 8401 Connecticut Avenue, Chevy Chase, MD, 301-652-8684 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

Here’s my theory of Portuguese food: go to the Ironbound section of Newark, otherwise forget it, at least outside of Portugal and Fall River, Massachusetts. This place gets good reviews, but I expect it to struggle. And at $17.95 an entrée, why bother unless it is truly fine? Let me know if you go and find out.

Ceviche, web site (flash and music), 921-J Ellsworth Drive, Silver Spring, MD, 301-608-0081, closed for weekend lunches I believe. (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Silver Spring Voice | Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | Don Rockwell]

Somehow I doubt if this place is good but I guess you should…um…get the ceviche.

See the update, February 2008

Sam's Restaurant and Cafe, 765 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD, 301-424-1600 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [WaPo | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

Stews, kabobs, lamb shank, special rice dishes. Sounds pretty good, I have yet to go, one reader claims they make the best gelato in the DC area.

Paradise Restaurant, 7141 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, MD, 301-907-7500 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [zabihah | Washingtonian | City Paper | openlist | Yelp]

NOW CLOSED

Tacos Pepito's Bakery, web site (Gaithersburg, MD location), 1762 Columbia Road NW, Washington, DC, 202-232-7121, Adams-Morgan (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [WaPo (DC) | The Burrito Blog | WaPo (Gaithersburg) | Yelp]

Also at 107-B East Diamond Avenue, Gaithersburg, MD, 301-990-1541

Recommended on Chowhounds, I have yet to go.

Skewers, web site, 9736 Traville Gateway Drive, Rockville, MD, 301-279-6999, off Shady Grove Road (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [zabihah | Washingtonian | City Paper | food-plan | Yelp | Gayot]

Supposed to be an above-average kabobs place.

Tabeer, web site, 1401 University Boulevard East, International Mall, upper level, Langley Park, Hyattsville, MD, 301-434-2121 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [zabihah | City Paper | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

The menu resembles that of Food Factory. Whenever I am in the neighborhood, I cannot resist going to Udupi Palace or Woodlands (Indian).

BD’s Mongolian BBQ, web site, 7201 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, MD, 301-657-1080, between Bethesda and Willow Lane (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Silver Chips Online | WaPo | City Paper | openlist | Yelp]

A chain.

I haven’t been, mostly the concept just doesn’t attain high enough heights. The best Mongolian barbecue I had was in Taipei.

Samantha’s, 631 East University Boulevard, Silver Spring, MD, 301-445-7300 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Silver Chips Online | Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | Don Rockwell | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

Gives every sign of being a yummy, upscale version of a mom and pop restaurant. There is only one catch: the food is bland and uninteresting. Nor is it cheap, as Mexican food goes. A disappointment. A bit Pan-Latin, but not in any way to its advantage.

El Boqueron Restaurant, 2311 Price Avenue, Wheaton, MD, 301-933-4900 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [City Paper]

Another Mexican/El Salvadorean place. I haven’t eaten here, but it looks decent.

Chipotle, web site, numerous area locations. [Washingtonian | WaPo | food-plan | Don Rockwell | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

OK, let’s get the bad news out of the way up front. This is a chain. Even worse, it is a chain owned by McDonald’s corporation, the fount of culinary evil. That being said, it is pretty good. Fresh and relatively authentic Mexican food, you tell them how to put together your meal. The salsa is genuinely spicy. The carnitas are the best meat. Not much choice, but you don’t need it. I’d rather eat here than almost any other Mexican place on this list.

Matamoros, 2322 University Boulevard West, Wheaton, MD, 301-949-2929 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | City Paper | Yelp]

Mexican food by non-Mexican Latins. Above average for the area, but no great shakes overall.

Toritos, 4936 Fairmont Avenue, Bethesda, MD, 301-654-6007 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [openlist | Yelp]

An object lesson in everything that is wrong about Mexican food in the United States.

Moby Dick House of Kabob, web site, 6854 Old Dominion Drive, McLean, VA, 703-448-8448 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [zabihah | Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | Don Rockwell | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

Multiple locations in DC, MD, and VA, including

• Georgetown (1070 31st Street NW, Washington, DC, Wisconsin Ave. south of M, 202-333-4400)
  
• Bethesda (7027 Wisconsin Avenue, Chevy Chase, MD, 301-654-1838)
  
• Fairfax (12154 Fairfax Towne Center, Fairfax, VA, the mall with Tower Records and the UA theatre, 703-352-6226)

Good kebabs, tasty food, and the best ethnic place in McLean. But simply not the best kabobs place, the meat here somehow has just a bit less taste. The bottom line is they manage to make it in McLean, ultimately not a good sign. Still, going here is better than eating American-style fast food.

Tia Queta, 4839 Del Ray Avenue, Bethesda, MD, 301-654-4443 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [WaPo | City Paper | openlist | Yelp]

I am told they have moles and real Mexican food, I am skeptical but will go to find out.

La Flor de Puebla Bakery V, 6300 Kenilworth Avenue, Riverdale, MD, 301-699-8657 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [WaPo (scroll down under Bakeries)]

A real Mexican bakery, lovely stuff. I don’t usually cover bakeries, but they also sell chile tamales for a dollar a piece. Worth it every time, stop in if you are in the neighborhood.

Taqueria Tres Reyes, 5403 Kenilworth Avenue, Riverdale, MD, 301-779-6060 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [WaPo | City Paper | Don Rockwell (also see this) | openlist]

On weekends they open at eight in the morning, as a good Mexican place should. Fully authentic, the shrimp soup is wonderful. Huaraches are tasty too. Superb for atmosphere and people watching, even when the jukebox is a bit too loud. Recommended.

La Sirenita, 4911 Edmonston Road, Hyattsville, MD, 301-864-0188, just a bit off Kenilworth Avenue (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | Don Rockwell | openlist | Yelp ]

The best chile relleno around, and also the best beans. Excellent posole. I have yet to try the fried quail. The waitress recommends the “stripe soup.” They get an A+ for atmosphere, recommended.

El Mariachi, web site, 765C Rockville Pike, by Wootton Parkway, Rockville, MD, 301-738-7177 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | City Paper | food-plan | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

Many (not all) people love this place, and it is usually crowded. I have yet to go.

Costa Alegre Restaurant, 5815 A Greenbelt Road, College Park, MD, 301-474-2278, near Branchville (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Restaurant.com]

I ate here with Jane Galt, who also liked it. Excellent tacos, and get the barbacoa and the beef cheeks, it is a good sign that they serve it. The guacamole was only average but I liked the place, very friendly and good atmosphere.

Taco Rico, 4811 Edmonston Road, Hyattsville, MD, 301-779-8001 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | Don Rockwell (scroll down)]

Tacos for $2.00 a piece, including tongue and cheef, cueritos and carnitas. Huaraches of many different kinds. I have yet to eat here, but I can’t wait. In a friendly Mexican neighborhood.

Crisp & Juicy, multiple outlets [WaPo | 10Best | City Paper | openlist | Yelp | Citysearch | Gayot]

• 4540 Lee Highway, Arlington, VA, on the corner of Lee Hwy and N. Woodrow Street, 703-243-4222 [Hobnob Blog]
• 913 W. Broad Street, Falls Church, VA, 703-241-9091 [Falls Church News-Press | Tarting it up]
• 1331-G Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD, 301-251-8833
• 3800 International Drive, Silver Spring, MD, 301-598-3333

Many of my readers like these places, I have yet to go.

Crisp & Juicy, 4540 Lee Highway, Arlington, VA

913 W. Broad Street, Falls Church, VA

Crisp & Juicy, , half of whole chicken dinner

Crisp & Juicy, , half of whole chicken dinner

Crisp & Juicy, chicken breast sandwich with everything on it

Crisp & Juicy, whole chicken

Crisp & Juicy, black beans and rice, fries, and salad

Penang, web site, 1837 M Street NW, Washington, DC, 202-822-8770 (on the corner of 19th and M Streets NW, just down the block from Malaysia Kopitiam) (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

Also 4933 Bethesda Avenue, Bethesda, MD, 301-657-2878, Bethesda branch has better hours. [Washingtonian | City Paper | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

Pretty good, but not as good as the sister branch in New York City (Penang: 109 Spring Street, New York, NY, 212-274-8883; Nyonya: web site, 194 Grand Street, New York, NY, 212-334-3669).

It’s still the best Malaysian you’re likely to get this side of Asia, so count your blessings. Some of it is too sweet for me and not spicy enough, but sometimes rigorous instructions can overcome this problem.

Levante, web site, 7262 Woodmont Avenue, Bethesda, MD, 301-657-2441, also 1320 19th Street NW, Dupont Circle, Washington, DC, 202-293-6301 [WaPo | City Paper | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

Some of the dishes here are OK, but if you like this place you are reading the wrong food guide. Ethnic food for yuppies with bad taste. Let’s hope that’s not you.

Bacchus, web site, 1827 Jefferson Place NW, Washington, DC, 202-785-0735, closed Sundays. A bit south of Dupont Circle, doesn't open for dinner until 6:00. There is also a branch in Bethesda: 7945 Norfolk Avenue, Bethesda, MD, 301-657-1722 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

Traditionally it has been the area's ruling Lebanese restaurant. Very good on all counts, especially the appetizers. I love the chicken in yogurt sauce with pomegranate seeds. Not cheap, but worth it, this restaurant is a favorite for many people.

Update: Now closed.

Pita Plus Kosher Deli, College Park, 4425 Lehigh Road, College Park, MD, 301-864-5150, corner of Baltimore Avenue and Knox Road (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window)

One reader recommends the lafah, not the pita bread.

Siena's Pizzeria, 11417 Woodglen Drive, Rockville, MD, 301-770-7474 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [WaPo | openlist | Yelp | Gayot (says closed, but it was open as of 4/30/06)]

Unlikely that I will get here soon, since I don’t trust pizza in this area, plus I have no reason to seek out a kosher version of it.

Red Heifer, 4844 Cordell Avenue, Bethesda, MD, 301-951-5115 or 301-951-1083 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian]

CLOSED - Flanagan's Harp & Fiddle is there now, 301-951-0115

A reader describes it as “Kosher upscale.” The Washington Post recommends the Rib-Eye steak.

Royal Dragon Kosher Chinese Restaurant, web site, 4840 Boiling Brook Parkway, Rockville, MD, 301-468-1922 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [City Paper | openlist | Yelp]

I have never gone.

Max's Kosher Cafe, web site, 2319 University Blvd., Silver Spring, MD, Wheaton, north side, about two blocks east of Georgia Ave, 301-949-6297 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [WaPo | City Paper | openlist]

A central spot for Jewish and Kosher dining and shopping in the area. See also Tel Aviv Café under Israeli.

Yett Gol, 12337-G Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring, MD, 301-949-9060 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Korean DC | WaPo (scroll down) | Yelp]

WooMi Garden, 2423 Hickerson, Wheaton, MD, 301-933-0100 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Korean DC | Washingtonian | WaPo (scroll down) | City Paper | openlist | Yelp]

Given how close to Annandale I live, I probably will never get to either one. The chance of them being bad is small, however.

Sam Woo, 1054 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD, 301-424-0495 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Korean DC | Washingtonian | City Paper | openlist | Yelp]

I've been to dozens of Korean restaurants in my life, and never experienced a bad one. This would be my second choice of the ones I know in Maryland, after Seoul Soondae on Veirs Mill Road.

Seoul Soondae, 4231-L Markham Street, Annandale, VA, 703-642-2220 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Korean DC (Annandale) | Korean DC (Wheaton) | WaPo | Yelp]

Branches in Wheaton, MD, 12203 Veirs Mill Road, Stone Mill Square Plaza, 301-942-5200 (equally good, pretty much the same thing); Ellicott City may be replaced by manna, 410-480-5050: 8801 Baltimore Nat'l Pike, Ellicott City, MD, 410-750-0006; and Queens, NY, 158-15 Northern Boulevard, Queens, NY, 718-321-3231 [Village Voice | AM New York]

If you don’t want buffet, one of the best Korean places around. Great seafood pancake here, Korean food for Koreans who know the difference. Gets crowded.

Yuraku, web site, 19773 Frederick Road, Germantown, MD, 301-515-7448 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | openlist | Yelp]

Recommended by a few of my correspondents, supposed to be very authentic and popular among Japanese.

Matuba, web site, 2915 Columbia Pike, Arlington, VA, 703-521-2811, also 4918 Cordell Avenue, Bethesda, MD, 301-652-7449. (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

Good sushi, though no longer dominant as it once was. Now just another good place.

York Castle Tropical Ice Cream, 9324 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring, MD, 301-589-1616 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [WaPo | food-plan | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

Yes, they have soursop ice cream, among other flavors…worth a try…

Caribbean Feast Restaurant, 823 Hungerford Drive, Rockville, MD, 301-315-2668, closed Sunday I believe. (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | City Paper | food-plan | Yelp | Gayot]

A great name, and one of the best Jamaican places. It doesn’t give me the visceral thrill that Negril does, but it is worth having in the repertoire. Very good chicken, lots of goat, and sides that would never pass the Atkins test. Good atmosphere.

Lots of places along this stretch of Hungerford Drive.

Negril's, web site, 965 Thayer Avenue, Silver Spring, MD, 301-585-3000 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

Also

• 2301-G Georgia Avenue NW, Washington, DC, 202-332-3737
  
• 18509 N. Frederick Avenue, Gaithersburg, MD, 301-926-7220
  
• 12116 Central Avenue, Mitchellville, MD, 301-249-9101

Curried stews, red beans, ox-tail, and rolled breads. Cheap, and very tasty. Don’t be scared off by the branching, this place is great.

Il Pinito, 5071 Nicholson Lane, Rockville, MD, 301-881-0085 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | City Paper | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

Definitely recommended, the sort of place you are convinced this area does not have. Cheap, tasty, fresh Italian food. Nothing shocking, but delivers all around in a way that few Italian places here do.

Israeli Grill (Moti's Restaurant and Grill at KosherMart), web site, 4860 Boiling Brook Parkway, Rockville, MD, 301-468-0400 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [WaPo]

I am told this has good grill and deli and is fully kosher.

Sabang, web site, 2504 Ennalls Avenue, Wheaton, MD, 301-942-7859, usually open (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | City Paper | food-plan | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

This area has no first rate Indonesian place, but this is pretty good. Mostly I save up my Indonesian urges for when I am in other places, most of all the Netherlands. But if you are going to order Indonesian, no matter where you are, go for the Rijstafel (Ricetable), which offers a wide variety of dishes to two or more diners.

Tiffin, web site, 1341 University Blvd. East, Takoma Park, MD, 301-434-9200 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

A non-vegetarian spin-off of Udupi Palace, and just a short bit further down the road, heading away from the Beltway. Very good Indian food, and very authentic, these people know what they are doing.

Woodlands, 8046 New Hampshire Avenue, at University Blvd., Hyattsville, MD, 301-434-4202 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | openlist | Yelp | Gayot] also located in Fairfax, in the mall where Germantown Rd hits the K-Mart, just off of Rt. 29, 4078 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA, 703-385-1996 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | openlist | Yelp]

Finally Fairfax has top-rate dosas. The Maryland branch has now overtaken Udupi with the Indian crowd, although the menus are almost the same. Fairfax branch not quite as good but still excellent. The kind of food is simply hard to beat. Be grateful that you can get it at all. There is one lentils dish, with vegetables, comes with a side order of yogurt, it is my favorite here.

Delhi Dhaba, web site, 2424 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA, 703-524-0008, usually open (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian], other locations: 7236 Woodmont Avenue, Bethesda, MD, 301-718-0008 and 4455 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC, 202-537-1008 [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

The food simmers in front of you at the counter, and you order what you want. Weekend buffet. Very quick, very cheap, good atmosphere, good Indian videos and TV programs - this place fills a niche. Not the finest, but I like it. That said, many of the other local Indian restaurants and improving and this place isn't, so take note.

Bombay Bistro, web site, 3570 Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax, VA, 703-359-5810, also at 98 W. Montgomery Avenue, Rockville, MD, 301-762-8798 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | Don Rockwell | openlist | Gayot]

A good restaurant with a wide-ranging menu. The Fairfax branch opened late in 1995, and rivals Connaught's as the best restaurant in Fairfax. They even have several kinds of dosas. The lunch buffets are good and fresh. There is also a main branch in Rockville, but I have never been there.

Five Guys, web site, 4626 King Street, Alexandria, VA, 703-671-1606, many other branches too, including on 107 N. Fayette Street, Alexandria, VA, 6541 Backlick Road, Springfield, VA, and 2960 Gallows Road, Falls Church, VA, right by the Multiplex and the Szechuan place set back in the strip mall. (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | Don Rockwell | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

See web site for locations in DC, Virginia and Maryland.

Formerly the definitive local hamburger, now it is a huge chain with varying quality. It can still hit the spot, however. Great albeit greasy french fries, makes you realize that most people’s french fries taste like nothing. No spa cuisine here. Not for all tastes, but if you think you might like it, try it. And dirt cheap.

Caribbean Delight, 7811 Riggs Road, at University Blvd., Hyattsville, MD, 301-439-1270 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [City Paper | Gayot]

Goat, calaloo, curried kingfish, the usual things you have come to expect from a Guyanese restaurant.

La Bamba Restaurant, 8241 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring, MD, 301-589-3712 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [City Paper | openlist | Yelp]

More Pan-Latin than Guatemalan, though they have a few specifically Guatemalan dishes, such as “Beef Stew Guatemalan Style.” Not my favorite, but if I lived next door I would go more than once.

Ambrosia Grille, web site, used to be at 1765 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD, now at 802 Hungerford Drive, Rockville, MD, 301-251-5816 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | openlist]

Heard it is in decline. I just can’t bring myself to try these places, the arrogance of experience I suppose.

Mykonos Grill, web site, 121 Congressional Lane, Rockville, MD, near Rockville Pike, 301-770-5999 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

Supposed to be good, but I've never been. Formerly of K Street.

Passage to India, web site, 4931 Cordell Avenue, near Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda, MD, 301-656-3373 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | Don Rockwell | openlist | Gayot]

Truly excellent. This used to be a branch of Heritage India, but now it is run by the original founder. It offers unique Indian regional specialties. In fact only here in this area can you eat specialties of Bombay and Calcutta, among other parts of India. This place is more like a high-class Indian restaurant of India than anywhere else around. Highly recommended, and make sure you get the regional specialties.

Las Margaritas Bar and Grill (formerly Costa Del Sol), web site, 4906 Fairmont Avenue, Bethesda, MD, 301-656-2561 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [City Paper | Chef Moz | openlist | Yelp]

They claim to be Honduran as well as Salvadorean and Mexican. Maybe, but you would have to read Leibniz on the identity of indiscernibles to prove the point. One of the few really ethnic places in Bethesda, plus it has above average pupusas. I also like the black beans soup with onion.

Athenian Plaka, 7833 Woodmont Avenue, Bethesda, MD, 301-986-1337 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Bethesda Magazine | Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | openlist | Yelp]

Comes recommended by a reader, and by Washingtonian. My sixth sense suggests that it is better than most of its kind, but it is not on my short list for a visit.

Persimmon, web site, 7003 Wisconsin Avenue, Chevy Chase, MD, 301-654-9860 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

I’ve yet to go, but Randy Kroszner likes it.

Pampanguena Cafe, 16041 Frederick Road (Route 355), Gaithersburg (technically Derwood), MD, 240-631-2210 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [City Paper | Don Rockwell | Gayot]

I don’t usually include the excellent Gaithersburg in this guide (just too far for me), but how many good Filipino places do we have? A Filipino reader says this is the best one around.

Sam’s II Karaoke & Restaurant (aka Jomel Restaurant and Karaoke), 11125 Georgia Avenue, Wheaton, MD, 301-942-0061 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | openlist]

I have yet to go. The best Filipino food I’ve had in ages was last year, when a few of the Filipino GMU undergrads cooked some for sale in the GMU food court. That’s the way to go, cultivate Filipino friends, the best way to learn this exquisite and interesting and undervalued cuisine.

Walia, 6840 New Hampshire Avenue Takoma Park, MD, 301-270-4545 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Takoma Voice | City Paper]

Another Maryland Ethiopian restaurant, but at a higher level of squalor. Let me know if you have been.

Langano Ethiopian Restaurant, 8305 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring, MD, 301-563-6700 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Silver Chips Online | Silver Spring Voice | Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | Don Rockwell | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

Ethiopian food, for those who chose Maryland. They have a lunch and weekend buffet. Not the very best, but there is something to be said for the buffet feature if you are in a hurry.

El Guajiro, 8650 Colesville Road, Silver Spring, MD, 301-565-4985, right across from AFI (American Film Institute, web site, 8633 Colesville Road, Silver Spring, MD) (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | Gayot]

Update May 15, 2006: Closed

The location is perfect, eat here before or after your movie at AFI. Try the roast pork and beans and rice, duh. Now tell them to bring back the mofongos.

Cubano's, 1201 Fidler Lane, at Ramsey Ave., Silver Spring, MD, 301-563-4020, 11-11 daily (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Bethesda Magazine | Washingtonian | WaPo | Takoma/Silver Spring Voice | Silver Chips Online | City Paper | insider pages | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

There is a flourish of new Cuban places in this area, though we do not yet have critical mass for any of them to be knockouts, as you might find in Florida or New Jersey.

Cuba de Ayer, 15446 Old Columbia Pike, Burtonsville, MD, 301-476-9622, closed Mondays (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | http://www.washingtonian.com/restaurantreviews/1081.html WaPo (Eve Zeibart) | City Paper | Don Rockwell]

A mom and pop, the Washington Post claims it is one of the best Cuban places around; it is a little out of the way for me.

Cuban Corner Restaurant, web site, 825 Hungerford Drive, near Ivy League Lane, Rockville, MD, 301-279-0310, closed Sunday (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Three Guys From Miami | Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

The best Cuban place around, as far as I can tell. Excellent pork and sides. The following is the rule of thumb on Cuban restaurants. The rice and beans are bound to be worthwhile. To have a great meal all you then need do is latch on to one other satisfactory dish. And here that is very easy to do. First-rate atmosphere, and I love the list of all the prominent Cubans on the wall, and the anti-Castro political propaganda. Definitely recommended, and very good for people-watching as well.

Los Arrieros, 7926 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring, MD, right at the DC border where the neighborhood turns dicey. (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | Yelp | Gayot]

They have Mexican dishes also, I have not yet been. I’ll go when you tell me to, otherwise not. I am still waiting. Washingtonian recommends the seafood soup.

Hard Times Cafe, web site, 1404 King Street, Alexandria, VA, 703-837-0050; 3028 Wilson Blvd., Clarendon, Arlington, VA, 703-528-2233; 1117 Nelson Street, Rockville, MD, 301-294-9720; 394 Elden Street, Herndon, VA, 703-318-8941; and others; usually open. (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

Chili up to five different ways, Texas and Cincinnati style, tasty and cheap. That being said, the tastes are blander than they used to be. Not up to the quality level in southern Ohio, but then again what is? Purists will never be happy here.

Manna, 8640 Flower Avenue, Takoma Park, MD, 301-589-9390, usually open (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Yelp]

Go here for mofongos (see under Puerto Rico for an explanation), fried pork and chicken, cuban sandwiches, and cow feet soup. I haven't been here yet, but I have heard good reviews.

Obrycki’s, web site, 1727 East Pratt Street, Baltimore, MD, 410-732-6399. Not open outside of the crab season, though, which varies. [Baltimore Sun | NYT | 10Best | City Paper | openlist | Roadfood | Citysearch | TravelLady | Yelp | Gayot]

Yes, that’s right, Baltimore. This place blew me away, and I don’t even like crabs, or rather didn’t even like crabs until I was converted. A memorable experience, though I received one report of decline.

Also recommended by readers are Faidley’s (web site, 203 North Paca, Lexington Market, Baltimore, MD, 410-727-4898), and The Edgewater Inn (in Edgewater, near Annapolis)

Island Cafe, Beltway Plaza Mall, 6054 Greenbelt Road, Greenbelt, MD, 301-345-0462 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Yelp]

Good roti, curries, other West Indian specialties. It is in a wonderful shopping mall, great for people watching, I bet most of my readers have never been there. One of the best mall restaurants in this Guide.

Caribbean Sea Seafood Market & Restaurant, 6869 New Hampshire Avenue, Takoma Park, MD, 301-891-3497, often closes at 8 or so. (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | City Paper | Yelp]

Mostly take-out and they sell seafood as well.

See updated post, October 2008.

Caribbean Palace, 7680 New Hampshire Avenue, Takoma Park, MD, Takoma Park Shopping Center, 301-431-1563, right at University Blvd. (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [openlist | Citysearch | Yelp | Gayot]

The place smells great, but I have never eaten there. Take-out only - that's why. Those who live closer should go. See also under Jamaican and Haitian, for some other suggestions.

Also, there are several West Indian places along Georgia Avenue, they tend to be clustered near the intersection with Rhode Island. Most are open only for lunch, though, which makes it hard for me to get there.

Pierre's, web site, 4926 Cordell Avenue, Bethesda, MD, 301-652-7757 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [City Paper | openlist | Gayot]

Stewed oxtail, jerk pork loin with pumpkin gnocchi, etc. The City Paper published a somewhat snide review. I would not expect to find a genuine Caribbean place in this part of Bethesda, so I vote no.

Tropics Restaurant, 13016 Middlebrook Road, Germantown, MD, 301-772-9300 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian]

Closed

Washingtonian likes it, plus it sounds authentic, I have yet to go.

New Orleans Bistro, web site, 4907 Cordell Avenue, Bethesda, MD, 301-986-8833 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | Gayot]

I am told they serve Fried Green Tomatoes (menu).

Louisiana Express, web site, 4921 Bethesda Avenue, Bethesda, MD, 301-652-6945 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | openlist | Gayot]

Washington magazine recommends it. I do not trust them, but how bad can it be? Many of my readers like this place.

Green Field Churrascaria, web site, 1801 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD, 301-881-3397 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | openlist | Yelp | Gayot]

This famous Queens churrascaria now has a branch in Maryland. The meats here are better than in the other Brazilian places of this area. That being said, the salad bar is a disappointment. Still worth the visit, however, especially if you don’t know the concept. And definitely construct your own feijoada from the salad bar (pile on the oranges and collard greens and farinha from the salad buffet).

Rinconcito Boliviano, Randolph Hill Center, 4824 Boiling Brook Parkway, Rockville, MD, 301-881-0332 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian |food-plan | Yelp]

NOW CLOSED. More mom and pop stuff. Live music on Sundays. You get to Boiling Brook by turning right on Nicholson, off of Wisconsin.

According to food-plan, this place is closed.

Le Mannequin Pis, web site, 18064 Georgia Avenue, Olney, MD, 301-570-4800, dinner only (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | openlist | Citysearch | Gayot]

Yes, Belgian. Gets rave reviews. Belgian food is great in Belgium, but in Olney? Everyone raves about the mussels and the beer. Not cheap. I now hear it has a new owner, circa 2006, but the same cooks.

Jerk Pit, 8145-C Baltimore Avenue, Rt. 1, College Park, MD, 301-441-4786 [WaPo | City Paper | Gayot]

Yes, jerk is a form of barbecue. The wings are recommended. Fridays they have oxtail stew. Service is slow, because they do it the right way.

Half Moon Bar-B-Que, 8235 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring, MD, 301-585-1290 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo (Eve Zeibart), WaPo (Eric Brace) | City Paper | food-plan | Don Rockwell | openlist | Citysearch | Yelp | Gayot]

Update June 12, 2006: A commenter, tegwar, says this place closed in May, 2006. The web site (link removed) was recently changed to something unrelated to food

Recommended by Washingtonian magazine.

Urban Bar-B-Que, web site, 2007 Chapman Avenue, Rockville, MD, 240-290-4827 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | Don Rockwell | openlist | Gayot]

Mostly take-out, they only have ten tables, always a good sign. They plan to expand, which I take to be a bad sign. The French fries are excellent. The sauces were not exactly to my taste. In any case this is a significant sign of progress. One of the best barbecue places around.

Raku, 7240 Woodmont Avenue, Bethesda, MD, 301-718-8680 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | openlist | Citysearch | Yelp | | Gayot]

More Japanese than anything else. I used to like the old incarnation, I have yet to go here.

Bare Bones, 20260 Goldenrod Lane in the Hampton Inn, Germantown, MD, 301-916-3700 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | openlist | Citysearch]

Ribs are the specialty, I have yet to go.

Bistro Asiatique (web site), 4936 Fairmont Avenue, Bethesda, MD, 301-718-3400 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [WaPo | City Paper | Gayot]

Has to be overpriced for what you get, I have yet to go.

Divino Lounge, web site, 7345-B Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, MD, 240-497-0300 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | openlist]

Meat. I have yet to go.

Clyde's, web site, Reston Town Center, 11905 Market Street, Reston, VA, 703-787-6601, plus branches near Tysons, in Georgetown, and in Chevy Chase (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | Don Rockwell | openlist | Gayot]

When dining with the wimpy, I go to the Tysons one (8332 Leesburg Pike, Vienna, VA, 703-734-1901) which is across from Borders, back behind Rt. 7 a bit and not visible from the road. The bar scene here is unattractive, but the food is pretty good, reliable, and not overpriced. Many will scorn this place, but it comes in handy.

Mandalay Restaurant, web site, 930 Bonifant Street, near Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring, MD, 301-585-0500 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | Citysearch | Gayot]

The best Burmese place around. Order many dishes and follow their lead. A superb restaurant. I’ve only been once, but I do not hesitate to put the place on my favorites list.

Ruan Thai, 11407 Amherst Avenue, Wheaton, MD, 301-942-0075, not so far from Rt.29 and University Blvd. (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | City Paper | openlist | Citysearch | Gayot]

My Thai restaurant of choice, after Duangrat’s. Not just the usual stuff. Fresh ingredients, and truly spicy. When it comes to ordering, you can’t go wrong. This place is exactly what a Thai restaurant should aspire to be.

Chez YonYon, 834 Chillum Road, Hyattsville, MD, 301-853-0404 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [EchodHaiti | City Paper | Citysearch]

Haitian food, the fried pork is my favorite, the fish is good too. You can’t go wrong at Haitian restaurants, as long as you steer clear of the macaroni and cheese. But the real question is not what you want, but rather what they have in that day. This is not better than average Haitian food, but it doesn’t have to be. The rice and beans are always superb, mix in the spicy sauces.

Faryab Afghan Cuisine, 4917 Cordell Avenue, between Norfolk and Old Georgetown, Bethesda, MD, 301-951-3484 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | openlist | Citysearch | Gayot]

I’ve yet to go but I bet it is good, Afghan food is close to a sure thing.

El Patio, web site, 12303 Twinbrook Parkway, Rockville, MD, 301-231-9225 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | City Paper | openlist | Gayot]

Washingtonian magazine praises this place to the skies, but not a word in its favor is convincing. How can do really do this cuisine without first-rate beef, which no U.S. restaurant short of Morton’s is going to have?

Pho 75, 3103 Graham Road, Suite B, Falls Church, VA, 703-204-1490, go early to avoid the line (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | Don Rockwell | openlist | Citysearch | Gayot]

Other locations:

• 1721 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA, 703-525-7355
  
• 382 Elden Street, Herndon, VA, 703-471-4145
  
• 771 Hungerford Drive, Rockville, MD, 301-309-8873
  
• 1510 University Blvd. East, Hyattsville, MD, 301-434-7844
  

Do not fear tripe and the other nasty bits. Learn to eat for crunch and texture.

Udupi Palace, web site, 1329 University Boulevard East, Takoma Park, MD, 301-434-1531 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | openlist | Citysearch | Gayot]

A great place. Southern Indian food in profusion. Goes well beyond the usual dosa places. The food is an entire level better, and the selection is far more extensive. A real treat. I especially recommend any kind of dosa, the Pesarat, the vegetable dishes, and the yogurt rice. By the way, the Latino music shop next door has some good stuff that is not available in your local Tower.

El Tapatio, 4309 Kenilworth Avenue, Bladensburg, MD, 301-403-8882, open 10 to 10 every day, don’t you love those hours? (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | openlist | Citysearch | Gayot]

This is a real Mexican place, treasure the thought. In LA or Houston this restaurant would be only average, but that is still great in absolute terms. Get the goat (“birria del chivo”). The best chile relleno around. Very good tacos. A lifesaver, the first Mexican place I can recommend, despite its inconvenient location. It’s right where the old “Cielito Lindo” used to be.

Seven Seas, web site, 1776 East Jefferson Street, Rockville, MD, 301-770-5020 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | Don Rockwell | openlist | Gayot]

One of the very best Chinese for seafood. You must ask for the Chinese menu, otherwise don't go. Get the Crispy Fish Hunan Style.

Bob's Noodle 66, 305 N. Washington St., Rockville, MD, 301-315-6668, usually open, cash only. (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | Gayot | City Paper | Don Rockwell]

Superb Chinese food, nor is it replicated by the other best Chinese places around. More Taiwanese than most local Chinese restaurants. The thick noodles are amazing. I loved the fish and the ginger casseroles. Get the oyster pancake as a starter. The last fish dish, lightly fried fish in a sweet and sour sauce, is a knock-out. Not to mention the tempura soft shell crab. Right now this is the best Chinese place around. I wouldn’t pretend that I have discovered the best dishes here yet, but you can’t go wrong, even if you don’t usually like duck blood.

Also see Bob's 88 Shabu Shabu

Update January 2007: This restaurant is now in slight decline.

Oyster Pancake

Seafood Combo Thick Noodle Soup


Ginger Chicken Casserole

The Best

Joe’s Noodle House, web site, 1488-C Rockville Pike, near Congressional Lane, Rockville, MD, 301-881-5518 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | Economist | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | openlist | Citysearch]

Superb Szechuan food. Many little items. You order and they bring it to your crowded table. As close to real Chinese food as you are going to get around here. A very exciting place to visit, highly recommended. Plus the best dumplings around.

A&J Restaurant

• 4316 Markham Street (Little River Turnpike), Annandale, VA, 703-813-8181, just east of the Beltway (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | Don Rockwell | openlist | Citysearch | Gayot]
  
• 1319 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD, 301-251-7878 [Washingtonian | WaPo | City Paper | food-plan | Don Rockwell | openlist | Citysearch | Gayot]

Manchurian food and dim sum, one of the best places around. Tasty, original, and very cheap. I love the soups and dumplings. The boiled peanuts and shredded bean curd are other favorites. The smoked chicken has been especially good lately. But you can’t go wrong here, just make sure you get lots of things, and with the median item price below three dollars, this is not hard to do.

China Canteen, 808 Hungerford Drive, Suite E, Rockville, MD, 301-424-1616 (Metro Trip Planner - opens in new window) [City Paper | DC Examiner | Gayot]

A real Szechuan place, dating back several years. Why didn’t more of you write me about it? Get some of the cold dishes. The Dan-Dan noodles are excellent. Otherwise, get dishes that are not otherwise available in non-Szechuan restaurants. Not as good as the best of Tempt Asian or China Star, but worth going to. Perhaps the most extensive Szechuan menu around.