Ben's Chili Bowl

After a night out on U Street in DC, we satisfied everyone's munchies with a trip to the famous Ben's Chili Bowl. This old-school joint is known locally for its chili dogs, half-smokes, and milk shakes. It was frequented by both police and protesters during the 1968 Washington, D.C. riots, and is regularly visited by celebrities such as Bill Cosby and Chris Tucker (via Wikipedia). One of the order-takers behind the bar suggested to try the chili dog. I also ordered a side of chili fries for B and everyone else. Each bite of the chili dog was delicious and comforted my soul. I was able to understand how this place withstood the test of time and was madly crowded well past 2 AM.

Hank's Oyster Bar

B and I are in DC this weekend. We're visiting his good college buddies D and W, a very wonderful couple who share a similar enthusiasm for food. Upon hearing about my oyster infatuation, they decided take us to Hank's Oyster Bar for a late brunch, which is a charming little seafood establishment in Dupont Circle. Since 2005, Hank's has been a fantastic neighborhood success by renowned chef Jamie Leeds. I had just completed Rowan Jacobsen's "A Geography of Oysters: The Connoisseur's Guide to Oyster Eating in North America" and have been very eager to try out my newly-enlightened palette on a fresh dozen.