Why go: The muffins might be the big lure—the case up front holds two dozen colorful varieties—but this order-at-the-counter operation also boasts some of the most authentic island cooking around, from electric preparations of jerk to excellent overstuffed roti.
What to get: Rum-raisin, carrot-cake, cranberry, and cream-cheese/streusel muffins; jerk shrimp; roti, including chicken and potato (the latter is lighter but doesn’t stint on flavor or heat); stuffed shrimp with fries and coleslaw.
Best for: Spice lovers and anyone looking to recreate the flavors of a Caribbean getaway.
Insider tip: Owners Rod and Sherrie O’Savio plan to open a second location this summer in Bowie.
>> See all 2010 Cheap Eats restaurants here
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.
