DC United - Screaming Eagles Tailgate - RFK Stadium - Washington, DC

What's NEXT: Come cheer on the DC United MLS Soccer Team at RFK Stadium on any Saturday game and enjoy this fabulous Screaming Eagles Supporters Group Tailgate.(http://screaming-eagles.com/game-day/tailgates/)

"The Screaming Eagles gather for food, drink and camaraderie 4 hrs before every D.C. United weekend home game at RFK Stadium.

The tailgate is in parking lot 8 at RFK Stadium near the Soccer Celebration area (look for the large black SE canopies) and is open to members and their guests.

We do have a limited supply of chairs and a lot of shade under our tents, but feel free to bring your own blankets and/or chairs to sit on. Times for the tailgate will vary based on kickoff time and day of the week so check for updates on the website.

Our menus consists of the BBQ standards-hot dogs and burgers along with grilled chicken, bratwurst, chorizo, grilled pizza and ravioli. We also have plenty of vegan/vegetarian friendly options

COST

Tailgate pass includes buffet and drinks

SE members : $10
Non-members : $12

Drinks Only : Free for members with 2013 SE ID, $12 non-members"

Remaining 2013 Schedule:

Jun 29	vs Vancouver	7:00 pm
Jul 3	at Seattle	10:00 pm
Jul 7	at Colorado	9:30 pm
Jul 20	at Chicago	8:30 pm
Jul 27	vs New England	7:00 pm
Aug 3	vs Montreal	7:00 pm
Aug 10	at Philadelphia	8:00 pm
Aug 17	at Montreal	7:00 pm
Aug 24	vs Toronto FC	7:00 pm
Aug 31	at New York	8:00 pm
Sep 8	at Chivas USA	9:00 pm
Sep 15	vs Los Angeles	5:00 pm
Sep 21	at New England	7:30 pm
Sep 28	at Toronto FC	1:00 pm
Oct 4	vs Chicago	8:00 pm
Oct 12	vs Philadelphia	7:00 pm
Oct 18	at Sporting Kansas City	8:00 pm
Oct 27	vs Houston	1:30 pm

16 Must-Try BBQ Spots in 13 U.S. Cities

Check out #13 Urban Bar-B-Que Company on "16 Must-Try BBQ Spots in 13 U.S. Cities"
http://blog.zagat.com/2013/06/16-must-try-bbq-spots-in-13-us-cities.html#more

Far East Taco Grille (Food Truck) - Washington, DC

What's NEXT: Far East Taco Grille is now one of my favorite food trucks in DC!

You can choose 1 taco for $3 or 3 for $8. I really enjoyed the pork, steak and chicken tacos. You can choose toppings like kimchee lime slaw, spicy corn, grilled veggies and a bunch of different sweet and spicy sauces. Also, they serve the tacos using corn or flour tortillas. I enjoyed all 3 of my tacos combinations!

I have 2 pet peeves when it comes to tacos:
1. The tacos must not break when eating! I hate when this happens because it's such a mess and usually it means they've used poor tortillas.

2. Needs to have fresh flavors and decent portions! It's absolutely crucial for any successful taco to have great flavors and portions. If your taco lacks flavor, it will be dull. If it's miniature and for $8, it's an obvious waste of money.

Now, I know that it can be difficult to have decent portions of meat without the taco breaking but that's why not everyone's making tacos. It's not the easiest thing in the world!

Now, Far East Taco Grill delivers and offers fantastic tacos for the lunch crowd. The service is friendly too! Next time the truck is around, looks like I'll be making my way here for lunch!

Words of wisdom:
1. Get here early as lines start to form around 11:30am
2. Tacos are made to order, so you can be in line for a while. Again, look back at #1.
3. They are absolutely worth the wait!

5/5 Stars

Menu

3 Delicious Tacos

Lime Fresh - Arlington, VA

What's NEXT: Since moving to Pentagon City, I've been to Lime at least a dozen times and it's always been a great lunch option for me. While it's not the best Mexican food you've ever had, it does it's one job: satisfy my Mexican/Salsa craving.

Besides the burritos, I go for the fajitas options which comes out sizzling on a hot plate. I mostly come here for the great options on their salsa bar though. Cilantro, limes, pineapple salsa, regular salsa, salsa verde, you name it. They also give you chips with most orders as well.

I agree with other reviewers that I wished they offer a salsa with more heat since I would say most of them are pretty mild.

All in all, a good place to come if you want a delicious and laid back meal.

3/5 Stars

Salsa Bar

Burrito and Chips

Table Seating

Lighthouse Tofu (Annandale, VA)

What's NEXT: If you like Korean style soft tofu soups (soondubu), Lighthouse Tofu is truly a great Korean food spot in Annandale, VA. 

What makes Lighthouse so great is their speedy service, great food, side dishes, and prices!
When you get there, complimentary side dishes, water and tea are brought to your table. They have a simple menu which lets you choose what type of soup you want and how spicy. On the backside of the menu, you can order noodles, rice, and BBQ items such as kalbi or bugolgi.

The food comes out piping hot on the traditional Korean bowl and is provided with raw eggs to crack into your soup. I think this is a very small, but nice touch that this restaurant has. They give you rice and more side dishes which are unlimited.

Prices for the soups during dinner are all around $10. VERY GREAT PRICES considering what you are getting.

I almost always leave this place satisfied and full. There's nothing better than enjoying a hot tofu soup on a cold night in December.

5/5 Stars

Korean Side Dishes

Seafood Pancake

Korean Style Tofu Soup

Buffalo Billiards - Washington, DC

What's NEXT: Buffalo Billiards is a large and spacious bar to enjoy a football Sunday or catch some sporting events with the guys. Located close to the Dupont Circle Metro, it's a downstairs bar with pool plenty of seating. It's also home to the Michigan Alumni Association, so I saw hundreds dressed in Maize Blue during the NCAA National Championship.

It's a huge bar so you won't have to rub elbows with the drunk guy who can't see to walk straight. There are a ridiculous amount of TVs everywhere so you won't have any problem finding a spot with a decent viewing area. They've even came up with certain sitting areas which can distract others and designate a DO NOT SIT area. It's quite brilliant.

If the big game is on, chances are they'll even have audio for games which is great too.

I've had their typical burgers, fries, wings and onion rings. It's typical food you would expect from any sports bar. Drink specials are plenty too, so its definitely worth checking out.

3/5 Stars

One of the Many Bar Areas

Buffalo Wings

TVs on Every Wall

H&pizza - Washington, DC

What's NEXT: With 2 locations by U Street metro and H Street, &pizza focuses on providing a "chipotle style" experience for their customers. I came here on Tuesday and I must say that I'm thoroughly impressed.

You can order a pizza with unlimited toppings for ~$9 and follow your pizza from beginning to end. You choose the dough, sauce and toppings before and after your pizza goes in the oven. What sets this place apart is the thin crust and the quality of the ingredients. Some of my favorites include proscuitto, bacon, pepperoni, chicken, basil, spinach, marsala fig, home made mozzarella, and arugula. It's like you're getting a gourmet pizza.

Each person can get their own or half/half and personalize it however way they like. Not to mention, the entire process from beginning to end takes about 5 minutes. Now, that's speedy service!

Also, they offer a dessert pizza with strawberrys, nutella, pecans and a little whipped cream if you have quite the sweet tooth.

5/5 Stars

Fig Marsala Pizza with Mushroom Truffle Oil and Chicken

Spicy Tomato Pizza with Pepperoni, Proscuitto, Arugula and Basil

Homemade Mozzarella

Dessert Pizza

Hot Spot - Fairfax, VA

What's NEXT: Since the last time I visited Hot Spot, I've noticed a few positives changes to the restaurant which have made me bring my review to 5 stars.

The Changes are:
- Vegetable Platter to Start the Meal: Rather than picking both your starches and vegetables from the beginning, they provide you with a "variety platter". This accomplishes 2 things: Less wait time for food prep and allows people to try vegetables they've never had before. I believe they had most of the typical vegetables including enoki and shitaki mushrooms. This change benefits both the customers and the restaurant.

- Extra Spicy Broth: This was something that I thought was a major letdown when I first came. A number of my friends including me prefer a super spicy (mala) experience. There's just something about the szechuan peppercorns that can't be forgotten in a spicy broth. Having said that, they added it to the menu and it was actually quite satisfying. I'm extremely happy with this change.

- More Order Sheets: Since you order on a piece of paper listing what you want, it was challenging to continuously flag down the wait staff if you wanted another order form. This time, I was given 3 sheets when I initially sat down which allowed me to place a 2nd round of food once my 1st one game. During my last visit, we had 3 rounds of food and waited around 25 min each time.  This change makes it very easy for everyone and allows the turn of tables quicker.

Now I know a lot of people have complained by the slow service and long wait time. When my friend and I came on Friday night, the wait for 2 people at a table was an hour. The place was completely packed by 7pm. In addition, with limited staff, I bet people's drinks and food were refilled at a snail's pace. 

HOWEVER, I do have a secret to share. If you sit at the bar, you'll get the BEST SERVICE EVER. 

We sat at the end of the bar and there were so many benefits. Quick and easy drink orders, refills and it was very easy to catch one of the staff since they would walk right past us to-and-from the kitchen. Everything was great and I couldn't be happier with the service.

All in all, one of my new favorite restaurants in the DMV and I'm happy they opened up right before winter!

5/5 Stars

Meat and Seafood

Ready to Eat

Chima - Tyson's Corner, VA

What's NEXT: I really wanted to love Chima and for the most part I did. But what really disappointed me was for the SERVICE. 

When you're paying this much for a dinner. you should expect top notch service, and it was non existent on this night.

I had made a reservation to celebrate an occasion for 8pm. When we finally got sat, the hostess said that she would have a waiter come by and explain how Chima worked etc. We had never been there before. After 10 minutes, NOBODY came over to our table.

I HAD TO PHYSICALLY WALK TO THE HOSTESS AND TELL HER NOBODY WAS SERVING US. 

This was the first mistake. She should have assigned a server to us immediately. 
The meat that was got was absolutely delicious, tender and divine. I really enjoyed it. 
We enjoyed filet mignon, lamb, swordfish, and numerous cuts of meat. Everything is carved table side by "Gauchos" which is awesome. 

However, towards the middle of the meal, the gauchos stopped coming around. We had our cards faced up showing that we were waiting for more meat. Literally, we didn't have another person come around for 20 minutes and I had to tell the hostess AGAIN what the issue was. I would think that with there only being 8-10 tables served that evening, there shouldn't have been a problem.

Also, there was no apology when we received our check or deduction. 

Overall, I really enjoyed the food, but the SERVICE was extremely disappointing.
Maybe I will try to come here again, but it remains very pricey.

2/5 Stars

Meat or No Meat

Cuts of Meat

Greens From the Salad Bar

Mala Tang - Arlington, VA

What's NEXT: Mala Tang is a decent place if you're looking to have a big group style dinner for hot pot. It's a great experience as each person gets their individual "hot pot" and you just order meats and veggies yourself. You get a large amount of food and you'll find yourself usually satisfied by the end. The restaurant has nice decor and pretty clean for traditional hot pot. 

However, the only thing that has prevented me from coming back is the price. Hot pot is supposed to be inexpensive and this place is way above what anyone should be paying for hot pot. 

Don't get me wrong, the food was good, but it shouldn't cost you more than $30 per person before tip. The ingredients themselves don't cost a lot of money at all. It's just veggies and basic meats. If it was more around $15-$20 per person, I think they would get more business. 

I will say that I enjoyed their appetizers, atmosphere and food a lot. But I won't be coming back because of the price. If you're looking for a better hot pot experience, try Hot Spot in Farifax, VA

3/5 Stars

Individual Hot Pot

Appetizers

Spicy Cold Noodles

Storefront

Kebob Palace - Arlington, VA

What's NEXT: I finally made it to Kebob Palace in Crystal City!

After waiting to go for almost 2 months, I finally grasp the courage to metro out to Virginia for this meal.

I had read numerous reviews (over 400) which was summarized with: expect to wait 20 min at anytime, call ahead if possible, and get the chickpeas.

I got the Palace combo  which came with 3 skewers, rice, salad, naan, and 2 sides for $20. The food was great. I would say the highlights were the tenderness of the chicken, chickpeas, sauce, and curry. I enjoyed their naan, but I do wish it was more crispy. 

Most people go for the Combo #8 which is a combination of boneless chicken, kubideh and 2 sides. If you're feeling more adventures and with a group of people, definitely try the Chicken Karahi. It comes in a large clay pot and is absolutely authentic. Just keep in mind that for the Karahi, it takes 45 minutes to prepare.

This place lived up to most of the hype and I will definitely be back. Granted, it's not the best I've ever been to, but it's still awesome. Good thing I don't live by this place or else I'd be broke. It's Open 24 hours!

5/5 Stars

Combo #8: Boneless Chicken and Kubideh

The meats

Storefront

Nando's Peri Peri - Washington, DC

What's NEXT: Nando's Peri Peri is one of my favorite restaurants in the DC area. It's offers delicious Portuguese style chicken at a very affordable price. 

What makes this place so awesome is the great chicken and the sauces. The chicken comes tender with a crust and packed with flavor. They also offer plenty of sauces from spicy, extra spicy, garlic spicy etc. I love dipping my chicken into these sauces.

Typically, I'll get a half chicken with 2 sides in my meal. For sides, I'll usually get the rice and garlic bread. Once in a while, I'll get the mashed potatoes. 

I'd say with the comparable restaurants in Chinatown, Nandos is a steal and offers some of the best food around. I've been to this place at least 10 time and service/food has always been exceptional.

They have locations in Chinatown, Dupont Circle, and Pentagon City, VA.

If you love chicken and spicy sauces, you've got to make your way to Nandos!

5/5

Sauces

1/4 Chicken with Sides

Dining Area

China Boy - Washington, DC

What's NEXT: China Boy is a hole in the wall. Literally.

It's a small shop located in Chinatown with only 2 tables, enough for make 6 people so carryout is preferred. 

The menu is also limited to maybe 10 items, but they have very good rice noodles here. It's also really cheap ($8) given that their portions are generous.I really liked both the chicken and beef chow fen here, but it was a bit greasy.

If I'm really hungry and looking to grab a quick meal in Chinatown, this is a decent option. Funny but there really aren't that many great Chinese places in Chinatown anymore.

Also, keep in mind that they're only open for Lunch and it's Cash Only too!

4/5 Stars

Beef Chow Fun

Storefront

Rice Crepes

Hill Country BBQ - Washington, DC

What's NEXT: I made it to Hill Country BBQ for my 24th birthday along with a group of friends. It was a Friday night and we made a reservation a few days prior. It was pretty busy with happy hour and the dinner crowd so I was happy there were no issues with our reservation. We showed up and got escorted to our seats.

What's interesting about this restaurant is the meal ticket system. Each person gets their own ticket and can order meats by lb or their "packages" for 1, 2 or 4 people. Our side of the table decided to get a "Everything's bigger in Texas for $97". It comes a whole Pound of Lean Brisket, Four Pork Spare Ribs, Four Beef Ribs, a Whole Chicken and any 4 Sides. This meal is advertised for 4 people but it can definitely feed 6 people no problem. 

The meats were delicious! I would definitely get the Brisket, Spare Ribs and Beef Ribs again no problem. I thought the chicken could be better, but it was still decent.

As far as the sides go, a lot of people enjoyed the corn pudding, sweet potato bourbon mash and the collard greens. I thought they were A-Okay. Nothing amazing, but you wouldn't come here for the sides anyway right?

I also enjoyed heaping 32oz Sweet Tea here. It's perfect to pair with your BBQ.

Overall, I enjoyed the food and atmosphere here. It's a little pricy, but expect BBQ to run you around $20, especially in DC. I saw that they have $20 all you can eat Mondays and live bands daily so definitely can't wait to come back!

Stars 4/5

Storefront

Everything is Bigger in Texas Meal $97

All You Can Eat Mondays for $20

Delicious BBQ

Shake Shack - Washington, DC

What's NEXT: After being in DC for over a year, I finally made my way to Shake Shack in Dupont Circle. My friends have long praised this place for their delicious and juicy burgers as well as their unique style of hot dogs.

I would say that their food definitely delivered. 

I came last week on a Saturday night with a group of friends (minimal line) and most of us got either the shack burger, regular burger or shack stack. I thought my burger (double hamburger) and fries were great. My burger was juicy and the fries came out crispy. My friend who got the shack stack raved about it. It's $8, but it comes with a burger, inside a Portobello mushroom and cheese. All burgers have the option of adding lettuce, tomato, and raw onions. My friends also enjoyed the milkshakes and concrete (tub of ice cream) as well.

The service was great here and I thought the food was priced fairly. It certainly has the feeling of an upscale fast food joint. 

Overall, I can't wait to go back, and next time I will try their hot dogs. 

Good thing I don't live close to here or else I'd definitely be broke from Shake Shack, Nandos, and Julia's Empanadas on the same block.

4/5 Stars

The Large Menu

Waiting for My Food

Mushroom Burger 

Jardenea - Washington, DC

What's NEXT: Jardenea, tucked away inside the Melrose Hotel, is a restaurant serving New American cuisine. This is a great place if you're looking to impress for a great date. The restaurant is modern, upscale and quite trendy. 

However, when we came on New Year's Eve, I thought the food was okay, nothing spectacular. Maybe the fact that it was a 6 course $90 price fixe menu had something to do with it. Generally, for a restaurant that doesn't normally offer a price fixe menu, this could be the issue. 

I thought that the food, although well presented, was not very well seasoned. I thought the duck was quite bland and other courses. Also, the steak received varied among each one of us (I went with 5 others). Everyone asked for Med-Rare and people received steaks Rare to Well Done. This is what I thought was a serious flaw for a restaurant with so much potential. 

I thought the experience was great and I would definitely come back. We'll just try on a normal night and see if the food is more up to par.

3/5 Stars

Pho 75 - Arlington, VA

What's NEXT: This place serves up some solid Pho. The broth is rich and I understand why this place has received all the hype. It's a no thrill or frills Pho experience.

However, I know that it's called "Pho 75", but they literally don't serve any food items except Pho. No spring or summer rolls, no vermicelli bowls. This is tough if you go with a large group like we did who all did not want to get a bowl of Pho in this 90 degree heat.

If you're craving pho, it's a great deal since you can get a large for under $10. And it comes with all of the fixings (bean sprouts, mints etc).

It's a short 5 min walk from the metro but I've heard parking can be a nightmare. It's in the same parking lot as Rays Hell Burger which always brings in a lot of people.

4/5 Stars

Great large bowl of Pho

Storefront