Welsh rarebit is a dish that I find irresistible every time I spot it on a menu. Who can resist cheese, bread, and Worcestershire sauce? At Vienna’s pub, Hawk & Griffin, they serve a fantastic version: three generous slices of fluffy bread topped with a savory mix, then broiled to create a gooey sensation, all for just $11. I couldn’t help but indulge in it during my second visit in two days last weekend (a little mishap involving my purse left at the bar). Luckily, this also allowed me to snag another stamp on my gin passport—a fun gimmick I quickly became invested in, especially since the pub features over 20 different gin, tonic, and garnish pairings. 435 Maple Avenue W., Vienna, Virginia — Missy Frederick, Editorial Director of Dining
Located in Old Town, Rock It Grill has established itself as a King Street landmark, consistently attracting a loyal crowd eager for karaoke, pool games, and quality late-night pub fare. On a recent Sunday around 9 p.m., I enjoyed captivating free vocal performances while savoring their excellent fried chicken tenders—a highlight of the menu that the bartender highly recommended. She specifically noted that the fiery Buffalo-style was the best choice ($12). She was spot on. Coated in-house, these substantial tenders come with a zesty honey mustard sauce and a generous side of fries (just an additional $3) reminiscent of those from Five Guys. 1319 King Street, Alexandria, Virginia — Tierney Plumb, Northeast Editor
If you’re looking for a cozy spot to catch up with a friend on a Friday evening, this new bistro on U Street is the place to go. The prix fixe menu ($45) is an incredible deal, especially when shared along with a carafe of wine (an $18 half-liter that comfortably accompanied our entire meal) while you engage in lively conversation. The skirt steak and mussels were expertly prepared in traditional French style, perfectly complemented by endless fries. Those crispy fries, with their blistered exterior achieved via a double-fry technique, definitely made a lasting impression. I even took home leftovers (we couldn’t finish the large silver tray), and they emerged from my air fryer just as crunchy as before. We left having spent about $70 each for a lavish French dinner, an absolute steal in D.C. these days. 1604 U Street NW, Washington, D.C. — Emily Venezky, Editorial Associate
H Street has certainly seen its fair share of restaurant openings and closings over the years, but Ethiopic continues to shine as a beloved fixture along the Northeast corridor. Recently, I decided to revisit this Ethiopian restaurant through Uber Eats, aiming to grab a vegetarian sampler for two, which was on sale for half price (normally $42). The takeout box was a vibrant display of colorful dollops of diverse flavors and textures. This generous serving consisted of seven vegetable sides—spiced collard greens, red lentil stew, turmeric cabbage and potatoes, and chickpeas cooked with spices—beautifully arranged on a bed of spongy injera. A delightful bonus was the abundance of flatbread, expertly folded into thick triangles. Although the delivery was well-packaged, nothing compares to dining in the restaurant’s elegant space and enjoying the charming hand-painted plateware. 401 H Street NE, Washington, D.C. — TP
