We are heading in to 2021 and it is still unclear when we will be able to travel again safely. It’s disappointing for sure, but the good news is for those of that live in D.C. we have so many dining options you can sample cuisines from all around the globe, without ever leaving your home. Read on for a list of some of the best international dishes around the world available in our city. All of the below options offer take-out, and some offer patio dining if that is your preference. An added bonus to the pleasure of sampling these delicious dishes: you will be supporting some of our wonderful local businesses!
MALAYSIA: Makan
Despite opening in 2020 Makan is thriving and for good reason. Chef James Wozniuk is wildly talented, and his Malaysian fare adds an exciting dining option in D.C. Highlights on the menu include paneer satay, where cubes of paneer and grilled and served with a creamy, nutty peanut sauce; dry mushroom curry cooked with fragrant lemongrass and warm nutmeg; eggplant that comes swimming in a tomato and lime leaf infused gravy. Brunch is also available and the spicy sambal eggs, where whole boiled eggs are soaked in an onion and sambal sauce, is hearty and heady and everything you want for your first meal of the day.
ITALY: Modena
There is nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of pasta, and at Modena, the Italian fare is especially soothing. From delicate gnocchi to pillowy ravioli to crusty pizza pies there is no end to the number of comfort dishes on the menu. I am a big fan of the arancini, small crunchy spheres of fried risotto, and chef’s gnocchi which is arguably the best in town. Enjoy it all with copious amounts of Italian wine.
MEXICO: Muchas Gracias
Muchas Gracias DC is newcomer has become quite a hit in just a short amount of time. I am obsessed with the charred sweet potatoes, which come with a fermented garlic salsa negra, as well as the acorn squash and burrata salad, adorned with pepitas and drizzled in a bright orange and sherry dressing. Toasted mushroom and baby cactus tacos are rich and filling, and the garlic rice has exactly the right amount of garlic. Of course, an order of guacamole is essential to your meal. There isn’t anything you won’t like on this menu so order something today!
GEORGIA: Tabla
Our culinary game is so extraordinary in D.C. we even have a couple of Georgian restaurants in D.C. Georgian food is quite diverse, and hosts a variety of soups and stews, cheese, fresh salads and breads. The most famous Georgian dish is of course khachapuri, where round or oval shaped bread is smothered in cheese and butter. At Tabla, you can sample a host of different kinds of khachapuri, including the classic with cheese, the renowned cheese and egg version, and creative spinach and artichoke dip filled one. Order several and share; variety is the spice of life!
SWISS: Stable
When we think of swiss cuisine, we automatically think of fondue. At Stable, the cheese fondue is certainly the star of the show. A pot of melted cheese, served with bread and your choice of apples or potatoes for dipping, is a real exercise in decadence. Right now, Stable is offering fondue kits to go so you can enjoy the fondue at home. Other treats on the menu include chewy and luscious spaetzle, raclette, and rosti.
AFGHAN: Lapis
The flavors of the food at Lapis are so warm and aromatic you will be reminiscing about what you ate for days. There is nothing on this menu that you shouldn’t enjoy. Afghan dumplings drizzled with yogurt and stuffed with leeks are soft and delicate; carrots cooked with dried plums have just the right amount of sweetness; kidney beans simmered in a bright tomato sauce are spicy and earthy; roasted eggplant is tender and perfect. Sample it all with caramelized onion rice or hunks of fresh bread.
SALVADORAN: El Tamarindo
Pupusas are one of my end all, be all favorite dishes of all time. Thick corn cakes made from masa stuffed with melted cheese is basically a dream come true. At El Tamarindo you can have yours with cheese and spinach, pinto beans, jalapeno and cheese, and a host of other fillings. El Tamarindo even offers pupusas with vegan cheese! Order a dozen with a side of fried plantains and a cerveza for a complete Salvadoran experience.
