Written by DCist Contributor Elisabeth Grant

It was the best of times (for pumpkin lovers), it was the worst of times (for pumpkin haters). It’s that time of year again; the leaves are starting to change, the weather’s promising to get a little cooler (finally), and everything is starting to taste a little more pumpkin-y. But eaters and drinkers beware, not all pumpkin flavors are created equal. They can range from too-sweet fake to more subtle and complex, and sometimes it’s hardly pumpkin at all, but rather pumpkin accompanying spices, like cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar. So for all you pumpkin-lovers out there (sorry, pumpkin-haters) continue reading to find out about some of the area’s best pumpkin picks.

Sette Bello
Heading over to Clarendon for the night? Before you hit the Ballroom, stop by Sette Bello for their mezzelune alla contadina, a “pumpkin and amaretti filled pasta with butter and sage sauce.” This decadent buttery pumpkin ravioli is a uniquely sweet dish with hints of both pumpkin and amaretti. Neither are overpowering, but rather combine to create a meal that’s so flavorful and smooth you’ll have to stop yourself from licking your plate. And procrastinators rejoice, this delight doesn’t just reemerge each autumn, it’s available all year long. 3101 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, Va.

Le Bon Café
If you’re in the city and need a snack, stop by Le Bon Cafe, for a generous slice of their pumpkin gingerbread. It’s a moist and fluffy treat that delivers a distinctly pumpkin taste paired with all the right spices. The pumpkin flavor is subtle enough that you might even trick those pumpkin non-lovers into trying it (convince them it’s a special-recipe banana bread). It’s a good autumn breakfast option, too. 210 2nd St., SE.

Photo from justindc.