Although the Post might be stuck on the line at Potbelly’s at L and 19th streets NW, those lucky enough to work in the Golden Triangle Business Improvement District (what we like to refer to as the ‘axis of nonprofit power’) know the area has plenty of interesting lunch options if you look beyond the big fast food chains.
Although we wrote about Galileo Restaurant’s financial woes last August, the pricey Italian restaurant run by owner and chef Roberto Donna is still open for business. In fact, today the restaurant’s “Galileo Grill” will be open for lunch today beginning at 11:45 and continuing until the food is gone, the last time they’ll offer their special lunch options until January. At the grill you can purchase a sub-like sandwich with pork shoulder, sausage, ribs or chicken from Mr. Donna himself for only $5. They also serve pizza, although an area foodie has warned us it sometimes gets a “so-so review.” A chicken sandwich we ordered yesterday came with savory pieces of chicken tucked into a toasted roll with pesto and vegetables. Although tasty, next time we’d try the sausage.
For an escape from the McMexican chain burrito shops, DCist suggests the Well Dressed Burrito at 1220 19th St. This lunch favorite is hidden in an alleyway between 20th and 19th streets between M and N streets, renowned for their enormous and delicious burritos. A finicky acquaintance complained her vegetarian burrito came with a smorgasbord of vegetables inside, instead of the rice and cheese she’s used to being served at Chiptole. If you’re planning to go be sure to time your trip well: they’re only open from 11:30 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. on weekdays.
Other area highlights include Meiwah, located at New Hampshire Avenue and M Street, and The Greek Deli on 19th Street between L and M streets. Although the prices at The Greek Deli have inched up in recent years, the quality of the food at this family-run business remains superb, and expect to wait at least a few minutes in the fast-moving line around lunchtime. DCist enjoyed a delicious falafel with lentil soup there on a cold day this fall.
