Washington, DC can be an expensive city when it comes to dining out, and can be tough to do on a tight budget. Even though there are amazing world-class museums and stunningly beautiful monuments to visit for free, finding cheap eats in DC that aren’t your run-of-the-mill national fast food chain can be very tough.
If you care more about the meal than the cost, read about our all time favorite places to eat in Washington DC (including some of them below, too).
I have two young kids who are at that age where they prefer quick, cheap and easy to gourmet. (My wallet likes this phase, my tastebuds do not).
I thought I would highlight some of our favorite local “cheap eats in DC.” You should be able to find something filling and delicious at each of these spots for no more than $10-$15.
Pinstripes
Pinstripes in Georgetown offers a unique dining experience that is both delightful and budget-friendly.
Its affordable pricing, combined with a lively atmosphere, makes Pinstripes an ideal spot. Additionally, guests can enjoy the added entertainment of bocce and bowling, further enhancing the value of a visit.
We have always gone during Happy Hour to make the meal more affordable and not have to worry about crowded lanes in the bowling alley!
District Taco
District Taco actually has multiple locations in DC, so stop by any of them, but this one is close to several standard tourist spots.
It is basically a lot like Chipotle, but much more authentic, and with more options on the menu, including a whole breakfast menu that is available all day. Another highlight is their “Salsa Bar” with four different types of salsa running the gamut on heat and intensity.
Actually, there is a fifth salsa, the super hot “Habanero” salsa, which is only available by request. Pretty much everything on the menu is $11 or less, including their tacos (3 for $12), which you can top with up to 8 different toppings inspired by the flavors of the Yucatan peninsula.
Try to hit this at off-peak meal times, as this is a favorite of locals and office workers right around noon.
Fight Club
Fight Club offers diners an innovative culinary experience without a hefty price tag.
Known for its creative take on sandwiches and small plates, the restaurant provides a menu that appeals to a wide variety of palates at accessible prices.
When developing our Eastern Market Food Tour, I tried really hard to figure out how to include it but it was just slightly too far out of the way, so I want to be sure to include it here.
The half smoke pups are my personal favorite. Fried foods dipped in honey mustard sauce is *chefs kiss*.
&pizza
This rapidly growing DC-based chain is an exceptionally fresh take on pizza. Opened in 2012, &pizza has over 40 locations in the DC region.
They have two different kinds of dough; your traditional pizza dough, and a gluten-free option (though if you have severe gluten allergies, they recommend not trying the gluten-free dough as they can’t guarantee no cross-contamination).
They have 5 different kinds of sauces, including your classic tomato and a spicy version, as well as a parmesan romano and a basil pesto spread. A unique DC themed option is our Mambo sauce.
They offer over 30 topping options for a make-your-own pizza, or you could opt for one of their popular named pizzas, like The New G (classic tomato, mozzarella, tomato, olive oil, and basil), the American Honey (spicy tomato, fresh mozzarella, pepperoni, arugula, goat cheese, hot honey, red pepper flakes), or the Dirty Bird (parm-romano sauce, shredded mozzarella, chicken, jalapeno peppers, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, blue cheese)
Their basic pizza starts around $10, and go up as you add toppings.
DC Dogs & Fries
Located inside the L’Enfant Plaza food court this quick bite is close to the Holocaust Museum & Memorial, the Smithsonian Castle, and the Air & Space Museum.
This location offers American classics. Their twice cooked fries are worth going for. You'll also find hot dogs, Mac & Cheese, and soups.
You'll often find me and the kids here after visiting the Air and Space Museum before we hop on the metro home!
Eastern Market & Capitol Hill
Eastern Market is the perfect place to go when you’re not quite sure what you’d like to eat.
The endless options ensure that every member of the family will find something of their liking.Weekends are the best time to visit as the market also plays host to an outdoor flea market.
Inside there are stalls that specialize in all sorts of things ranging from fruits and cheeses to pasta and deli sandwiches. Depending on when you visit, you could have breakfast, lunch, and dinner at this place.
Interested in learning about the history of the neighbor surrounding Eastern Market?
We offer an Eastern Market Food Tour tour to check out some of the great local eats and explore the neighborhood.
Oohs and Aahs
No one does soul food quite like Oohs and Aahs. My youngest obsessed with their mac and cheese.
Located on U Street NW, this tiny hole-in-the-wall restaurant boasts the best mac and cheese, collard greens, and fried catfish in the city. Oohs and Aahs is so well renowned that it was even featured on the Food Network’s hit show Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives.
Go during lunch to enjoy one of their many afternoon specials.
We love this place so much that it’s a stop on our self-guided U Street Food Tour.
Ben's Chili Bowl
Opened in 1958 by Ben Ali and his wife, Ben’s Chili Bowl is one of the most famous restaurant in all of Washington, D.C. During the 1968 riots, Ben’s would write “soul brother” in their window to ward off violence and welcome peaceful guests.
This restaurant has become one of the most beloved staples in the DC area, and it has been visited by all sorts of notable people including politicians, movie stars, world leaders, and even President Barack Obama.
This is a popular stop for student groups, so as a tour guide I often here - but I really do not mind. I always get the chili cheese dog but you really need to try the half smoke at least once.
Today, there are now multiple Ben’s Chili Bowl locations, though the original remains on U Street NW.
Things to try: Ben’s half-smoke, chili-cheese fries, and chili-cheese burger.
Meals range around $10-$15 per person.
Lucky Buns (burgers & fries)
Sporting 3 locations across the city, Lucky Buns has become one of the most popular burger spots around. They have locations in Adams Morgan, Union Market, and the Wharf.
Lucky Buns serves classic American fare like burgers, fries, wings, and salads. Though their menu offers signature burgers, you can also choose which toppings you want. The ingredients are sourced locally and seasonally. Their pickles and sauces are also made in-house!
Meals are around $15 per person.
