While cupcake and taco-themed street carts roam DC, this Bethesda-based blue truck has been quietly wowing fans with its fava-bean falafel. Lightly spiced fries and a wonderful fava dip also keep lines long.
Cornucopia
You’ll find everything from imported fresh pasta to hostess-ready grilled-vegetable antipasti at this Italian specialty-food market. Sandwiches, especially one made with sweet soppresatta, are simple and excellent.
Don Pollo
Chickens are doused in lemon juice and beer and then dipped in a dry rub before hitting the flames at this Peruvian rotisserie, creating a bird that’s crisp-skinned yet juicy. Sides such as black-bean salad and coleslaw are worthy, too.
Sweetgreen
This local chainlet of designer-salad shops lets you craft your own leafy mix with ingredients such as spicy quinoa and toasted Parmesan crisps. Or go for the popular Guacamole Greens mix, garnished with crushed tortilla chips.
Taylor Gourmet
The third location of this Philly-style hoagie shop is set to open in Bethesda Row. Expect all the highlights of its siblings: the cold-cut-stuffed Ninth Street Italian sandwich, peppery meatballs, and lightly fried chicken cutlets.
Vace
Our favorite eat-in-the-car meal is a slice of pepperoni pizza from this humble, 33-year-old Italian deli. Have more time? Pick up frozen containers of marinara and meat sauce along with cheese tortellini and fresh fettuccine.
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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.
