Southeast D.C. is home to some of the city’s best and most overlooked restaurants. LaVondra Shinholster, a D.C. influencer who you might know as @xovondra, is from the area and helped us compile this list of the best of the best.
Turning Natural (Anacostia)
This locally-owned juice and smoothie joint has a green juice we swear cures any cold (or hangover). Also, grab a Marion Berry smoothie and spinach pattie while you’re there.
Caruso’s Grocery (Hill East)
An intimate Italian spot, perfect for date nights with plates of pasta that would make your grandma blush. The bread starter gives fancy Olive Garden vibes, but it’s so, so much better.
Players Lounge (Congress Heights)
Not to be confused with 14 Street NW’s Players Club, this spot is open late-night and is perfect for the post-dancing munchies. All the food feels homemade and the mac n’ cheese is not to be missed.
Open Crumb (Anacostia)
Grab a fried chicken sandwich and brown butter chocolate cookie from this neighborhood café and walk down to Anacostia Park. The food is insanely comforting and delicious with large portions.
Pho from Pho Junkies. (Kaela Cote-Stemmermann/City Cast DC)
Mangialardo’s (Hill East)
This old-school family-owned Italian deli is the real deal. They have been slinging meatball subs and Italian beefs since the ‘50s. Portions are huge and prices are all around $10. Get the G-man sub, you won’t regret it.
Pho Junkies (Navy Yard)
I will travel all the way to Navy Yard for this pho (and that’s saying something). The broth is one of the best for pho in D.C. and the QR ordering system makes it perfect for us introverts.
Grounded Café (Anacostia)
This cafe is inside a plant store, so you can hang in a rainforest. Their coffee is supplied by Others Coffee, a local roastery, and is sold alongside matcha, herbal teas, and handmade treats.
Sycamore & Oak (Congress Heights)
There are several great eateries in this food hall and community center. Triceys D.C. serves up Afro-Caribbean dishes like bourbon chicken and braised collard greens. Meanwhile, Glizzy’s serves up vegan hot dogs and hamburgers.
