kickassDC

The largest Vietnamese enclave in the East Coast, featuring some of the best Vietnamese cuisine on this side of the globe. Nearly every restaurant is Zagat rated but dirt-cheap and unbelievably delicious. Every so often Vietnamese gangs will cause trouble or a jewelry store will “accidentally” blow up, which adds flavor.

A speakeasy hidden by a secret sliding wall conveniently nestled near Eastern Market. Make a reservation.

Most raw food sucks, this doesn’t. The chefs clearly do what they want to do here, and everything is unique and unexpected.

• What to Do: Eat whatever the chefs make.
• When: Anytime.
• Warnings: Dishes are light and come slowly, some may stay hungry. French decor is silly.

Hidden in a crappy strip mall, this 5-star place is the haunt of everyone from President Obama to George Clooney. The duck is to die for, the ambiance is amazing, and the history is intimidating.

• What to Do: Eat the Peking Duck
• When: Anytime, but make a reservation.
• Warnings: Always crowded.