{"id":27682,"date":"2019-07-15T19:35:21","date_gmt":"2019-07-15T19:35:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.expedia.com\/stories\/?p=27682"},"modified":"2021-10-28T17:19:50","modified_gmt":"2021-10-28T17:19:50","slug":"the-best-cheap-eats-in-washington-dc","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.expedia.com\/stories\/the-best-cheap-eats-in-washington-dc\/","title":{"rendered":"Where to Find the Best Cheap Eats in Washington, D.C."},"content":{"rendered":"

One of America\u2019s best nicknames is The Melting Pot. The nation\u2019s capital is a great example of many cultures coming together to form a community\u2014and the cuisine is just as excellent. Entrees in this city can cost $30+ in a mid-range restaurant, which adds up fast. So don\u2019t bust your budget next time you visit Washington, D.C.<\/a>! Cheap eats in Washington, D.C. are the best way to taste what America is all about.<\/p>\n

We scouted out the best cheap eats D.C. has to offer as well as tips for saving on culinary experiences you can\u2019t miss. Whether you\u2019re traveling with kids or embarking on a solo foodie tour of Washington, D.C.\u2019s famous food, there\u2019s something delicious waiting for you. Ready to feast your way through the yummiest cheap eats Washington, D.C. dishes out? Check out our list of the best cheap food in D.C.!<\/p>\n

Famous food in Washington, D.C.<\/h2>\n

What kind of food is Washington, D.C. famous for? Washington, D.C. is famous for all kinds of food, but especially half-smokes. These grab-and-go meals are similar to hot dogs, but spicier and nuanced in flavor. The District is also known for international flavors and really good burgers. Sample it all, from the diner grub to the Mexican infusions.<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s Chili Bowl<\/a><\/strong><\/h2>\n

1213 U Street NW, Washington, DC, 20009<\/em><\/p>\n

Founded in 1958 when much of D.C. was racially segregated, Ben\u2019s Chili Bowl was a gathering place for anyone who wanted a hearty meal. Today it\u2019s one of the must-eat places in Washington, D.C., as seen on \u201cMan vs. Food.\u201d Barack Obama also ate here just days before his inauguration\u2026no big deal. Old-school half-smokes and veggie dogs are available, too, as part of Ben and Virginia Ali\u2019s growing legacy.<\/p>\n

Oyamel<\/a><\/strong><\/h2>\n

401 7th<\/sup> St., NW, Washington, DC, 20004<\/em><\/p>\n

Humanitarian chef Jos\u00e9 Andr\u00e9s makes award-winning food affordable and fun at Oyamel. The vegetable-forward eatery has been featured on \u201cNo Reservations\u201d and \u201cUnique Eats\u201d! Many of the menu items are under $10, and the atmosphere suits a getaway with friends or a nice meal out with the whole family.<\/p>\n

Good Stuff Eatery<\/a><\/strong><\/h2>\n

Various locations in D.C.<\/em><\/p>\n

With three locations in D.C. and Arlington, Good Stuff is easy to find. Featured on \u201cTop Chef\u201d and \u201cUnique Eats,\u201d this casual restaurant serves up locally sourced burgers and salads under $8. Want to eat like a first family? Order the Prez Obama Burger and the turkey Michelle Melt.<\/p>\n

District Taco<\/a><\/strong><\/h2>\n

Various locations in D.C.<\/em><\/p>\n

When you\u2019re looking for cheap eats in D.C., check out this staple. Here you can top your tacos off the \u201cAmerican Way\u201d (with lettuce, pico, and cheese), the \u201cMexican Way\u201d (with cilantro and onion), the \u201cJefe Way\u201d (with lettuce, pico, veggies, cheese, and sour cream), or the \u201cBreakfast Way\u201d (with scrambled eggs and potatoes). Go on, pick your poison! Best part of all, each taco starts at just $3.29. Other affordable options include burritos, huevos rancheros, nachos borrachos, and more.<\/p>\n

Florida Avenue Grill<\/strong><\/a><\/h2>\n

1100 Florida Ave NW, Washington, DC 20009<\/em><\/p>\n

Florida Avenue Grill has had a home in D.C. since 1944. The neighborhood\u2019s favorite diner has held on to its humble roots and continues to serve all-day breakfast and \u201csoulfully cooked-home style dinners.\u201d You\u2019ll find classic Southern dishes, including Salisbury steak, smothered fried pork chops, and salmon cakes for under $10. For a hardy meal, go for Miss Bertha\u2019s breakfast special. Come in for a bite to eat and you just may hear tales from the locals about the past.<\/p>\n

Kid-friendly cheap eats in Washington, D.C.<\/h2>\n

In Washington, D.C., you don\u2019t have to give up atmosphere and flavor for a kid-friendly dining experience. In fact, many of the city\u2019s most iconic restaurants welcome all ages. Here are some particularly fun places to eat in D.C. on a budget.<\/p>\n

Comet Ping Pong<\/a><\/strong><\/h2>\n

5037 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC, 20008<\/em><\/p>\n

Ping pong, patio, and pizza. Can you think of a better combination for you and the youngsters? Play games between delicious slices and stay late for live music (some is geared toward adults). The build-your-own pizza menu will please your choosiest eaters, and vegans won\u2019t go away hungry either!<\/p>\n

Wicked Waffle<\/a><\/strong><\/h2>\n

1712 I St. NW, Washington, DC, 20006<\/em><\/p>\n

Have the kids ever asked for waffles for lunch? This time say yes. Located just a few blocks from the White House, Wicked Waffle serves sweet and savory waffles for breakfast through late lunch. From the classic grilled cheese waffle to waffle tiramisu, you won\u2019t find any basic bread here. Everything on the menu is under $10, so get ready to stuff your face with unique cheap eats in Washington, D.C.!<\/p>\n

Pinstripes<\/a><\/strong><\/h2>\n

1064 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC, 20007<\/em><\/p>\n

Can\u2019t decide whether to spend the evening bowling or dining on gourmet bistro fare? Have both\u2014plus a couple games of bocce ball and some family time around the fire pit. Pinstripes isn\u2019t just a kid-friendly place to eat\u2014it\u2019s an experience. Order the flatbreads and eat family style to save more.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

Washington, D.C. cheap eats to go<\/h2>\n

This city never slows down. However, even if you\u2019ve packed your itinerary to the brim with museum tours and sightseeing, don\u2019t skip meals. Many cheap eats in Washington, D.C. cater to people who need to eat and run.<\/p>\n

Julia\u2019s Empanadas<\/a><\/strong><\/h2>\n

Various locations in D.C.<\/em><\/p>\n

Sometimes only an empanada will do, and Julia\u2019s has been perfecting their recipes since 1993. Every empanada is $5, including vegan and vegetarian options. You can get your hands on classic Bolivian-style salte\u00f1as and Chilean empanadas, too. Buen provecho<\/em>.<\/p>\n

Zorba\u2019s Caf\u00e9<\/a><\/strong><\/h2>\n

1612 20th<\/sup> St NW, Washington, DC, 20009<\/em><\/p>\n

Dine in or take out, Zorba\u2019s fresh Greek cuisine is delicious either way. Entrees here are sized to share, which is great for saving money. The sandwiches are all $10 or less and perfect for a picnic and people-watching in Dupont Circle. Allergy information is clearly marked on Zorba\u2019s menu to make ordering easy.<\/p>\n

Jumbo Slice<\/a><\/strong><\/h2>\n

2341 18th<\/sup> St. NW, Washington, DC, 20009<\/em><\/p>\n

Jumbo Slice is true to its name and then some. Every $8 piece of pie easily dwarfs two personal pan pizzas at conventional restaurants. Of course, they\u2019re big enough to share, but devouring these cheese-laden monstrosities comes with mouth-watering bragging rights.<\/p>\n

LEON<\/a><\/strong><\/h2>\n

1724 L St. NW, Washington, DC, 20036<\/em><\/p>\n

Finally, a place where you can snag some healthy food without breaking the bank! At this joint, they call their cuisine naturally fast food, and the majority of the items are under $10. If you\u2019re vegan, gluten-free, wheat-free, or vegetarian, you\u2019ll find plenty of options that suit your dietary needs and preferences. Between choices like the Caribbean plantain curry hot box and the truffled portobello and halloumi sandwich, you and your wallet will walk out smiling.<\/p>\n

A. Litteri<\/strong><\/a><\/h2>\n

517 Morse St. NE, Washington, DC, 20002<\/em><\/p>\n

Step into the Italian grocery store, A. Litteri, and you\u2019ll feel like you\u2019ve transported yourself to Europe. In addition to finding some of the finest Italian wine this side of the pond, you\u2019ll discover an authentic Italian deli inside, where they serve up homemade bratwurst and Italian sausage. They serve delectable and affordable sandwiches, which your choice of meat, cheese, and toppings. With choices like capicola, mortadella, and prosciuttini, it\u2019s better to add of them to save yourself the decision making.<\/p>\n

Affordable foodie activities in Washington, D.C.<\/h2>\n