If you’re a fan of low-key neighborhood places to unwind, you’ll love any one of the 11th Street hot spots! The area’s resident bar-taqueria combo, El Chucho, satisfies all who stumble upon this gem with Mexican-style street corn on the cob and lime- and chili-flavored steak tacos. Next, what happens when you mix a James Beard award-winning chef with a space that has some of the coziest seating space in town? You get Bad Saint, a revelation in Pinoy cooking with an ever changing menu to keep you (and your tastebuds) on your toes!
Come enjoy a casual vibe as you savor some wood-fired pizza at RedRocks or devour the slaw-covered fried chicken sandwich at The Coupe cafe – both spots are open until 11 p.m. on weeknights and midnight on weekends so they’re the perfect spots for late night cravings!
As you’d expect from the main strip that winds right through the neighborhood, you could find spots for every meal of the day along 14th Street. Vegans, new and newly converted, from all over make the trip to Sticky Fingers Bakery that doesn’t disappoint. Its baked goods are so delicious that you won’t be missing the dairy anymore. Just try the cinnamon bun or pancakes that are unlike any other – remember, no butter?! – to find out why! Interested in a more lively scene? Come catch the big game at Lou’s City Bar, where your favorite bar fare is paired with 20-plus beer taps and just as many TVs. Talk about a home run!
When it comes to ethnic food, diners who visit Columbia Heights have voiced their desire to do away with weak Western versions of dishes in favor of ordering the real deal. Take Thip Khao, for instance. The restaurant, which serves authentic Lao cuisine, is buzzing in the evenings with aromas and diners ordering up dishes like kua khao jaew bong, fried rice with fermented chilis, radishes and zucchini, and naem khao thadeau, spicy crispy catfish made with lemongrass and fresh herbs. Continue along a Southeast Asian quest for comfort with Vietnam’s signature take on soup at family-run operations Pho Viet or Pho 14. These spots are sure to satisfy your “around the world cravings” and stir the senses!
Not far from what was locally known as “Little Ethiopia” – who in its prime, reigned over nearby U and 9th Streets NW – you’ll find Letena, where you order at the counter for quick delivery of delicious vegetarian choices like tenderloin tibs and vegetarian-friendly wats (think curry) you could want! In keeping with true Ethiopian fashion, the food is most delicious when folded up within small shreds of spongy injera bread and the coffee service is taken very seriously – as evidenced from the Counter Culture beans. Time to sip and savor when you visit here.
When those late night cravings stir, fill up on an El Salvadorian favorite, affordable and must-try pork pupusas from Gloria’s Pupuseria or go with a conveyor belt-cooked &pizza, which stays open until 1 a.m. on weekends. There’s no shortage of fun, festive and just delicious places to try when you visit Columbia Heights!
