Sure, everyone loves to hear about hot new restaurants, but equally intriguing are sleepers – those lesser-known gems that folks in-the-know like to keep to themselves in order to keep the crowds at bay. Whether it’s a cozy little corner, an out-of-the-way swingin’ spot or just a friendly place with fantastic food, the sleepers on the following list can help rouse you out of the dining doldrums.
Azucar
photo: courtesy Azucar
Layhill Ctr., 14418 Layhill Rd., Silver Spring, MD; 301-438-3293
The mean margaritas are sure to make you happy (along with the Central and South American dishes) at this colorful Silver Spring Pan-Latin.
Eden Ctr., 6785 Wilson Blvd., Falls Church, VA; 703-538-7110
Yes, Virginia, there is authentic Vietnamese cuisine, including great soup, lemongrass chicken and caramel fish, at Eden Center.
National Museum of the American Indian, Fourth St. & Independence Ave. SW; 202-633-7041
At this lunch-only cafe in the National Museum of the American Indian, you can bone up on culture while enjoying an amazing selection of Native American fare.
Danor Plaza, 120B Branch Rd. SE, Vienna, VA; 703-319-3922
Everyone else may be fooled by the shopping-strip surroundings, but you’re too smart to overlook this sophisticated, sushi-serving Pan-Asian in Vienna.
14511P Lee Jackson Memorial Hwy., Chantilly, VA; 703-631-8277
Don’t by put off by the “industrial park location” of this no-frills, well-regarded Chantilly Thai from chef-owner Nongkran Daks, who offers cooking and catering classes too.
– Jeff Freier