Falafel Sandwich at Amsterdam Falafel

While in Washington, D.C., delight your tastebuds without breaking the bank — casual eateries are the real gems here. Here are the best cheap dishes you must eat while in the District.
This dish will be the most delicious burrata to ever meet your taste buds, and it’s not even real burrata! Made from cashew and almond milk, the faux mozzarella is creamier, richer and less fattening than the more conventional kind. Served on toasted baguette slices (with gluten-free bread available), customers lick the plate clean and don’t even feel bad about doing so.
Farewell, 406 H St NE, Washington, D.C., USA +1 202 367 9600
You wouldn’t expect a barbecue joint known for its bacon to offer tasty vegan options, but Smoke & Barrel is an enigma. Not only does it offer a wide variety of vegan options, but it also has vegan wings! The wings, cooked from seitan, are coated in barbecue or buffalo sauce just like your average wing — all the yum, none of the guilt.
Smoke & Barrel, 2471 18th St NW, Washington, D.C., USA +1 202 319 9353
The unique flavor combo, the crisp pastry crust and the all around decadency make for an unforgettable, mouthwatering experience at Pie Sisters. Owned and operated by a trio of Washingtonian sisters, the local pie shop is a necessary stop for your palette while in the District. The bourbon chocolate pecan pie is truly genius, managing to balance flavors and create a delicious treat that is tamed down on the sweetness.
Pie Sisters, 3423 M St NW, Washington, D.C., USA +1 202 338 7437
Dupont Circle’s local bagery is the quintessential hole in the wall spot for unbelievable food. The quaint eatery offers some of the freshest bagels available in the city for not-so-D.C. prices. Bagels Etc is a narrow, easy to miss spot on a busy street, but the friendly-family staff and loyal cliental keep the business thriving. Order a super bagel for $5 and you’ll get plain cream cheese, sprouts, tomato, onion and optional avocado.
Bagels Etc., 2122 P St NW, Washington, D.C., USA +1 202 466 7171
By Kate McMahon