Why go: Raw-foodists, vegans, plain old vegetarians, and even staunch carnivores—the mock General Tso’s chicken could fool anyone—all tune in at this Asian-accented cafe.
What to get: Edamame tossed with sesame; mock fried-chicken nuggets (actually mushrooms and soy protein); spicy Thai tom yum goong soup with mushrooms and bamboo shoots; sweet-sour marinated tofu-skin “sushi” with brown rice; curry fried rice; a take on General Tso’s chicken made with soy protein; Amazing Mushrooms Palate, a mildly spicy sauté of four varieties of mushroom with edamame and ginger.
Best for: Diners looking for an all-natural high—you’ll feel like running a marathon after one of the macrobiotic entrées. Also good for a quick carryout.
Insider tip: Not everything is super-healthy. It’s not the chicken that makes General Tso’s chicken bad for you—it’s the sticky-sweet sauce—and frying is frying.
Open daily for lunch and dinner.
See all Cheap Eats 2008 restaurants
Ann Limpert joined Washingtonian in late 2003. She was previously an editorial assistant at Entertainment Weekly and a cook in New York restaurant kitchens, and she is a graduate of the Institute of Culinary Education. She lives in Petworth.
