Living in the city has gotten exponentially more expensive in recent years, but everyone needs to eat (and maybe even go on a dinner date once in a while). But even if "Hamilton" describes both the contents of your music library and your wallet, you can still eat a full meal on the cheap. Here are five spots where even the young and hungry can dine like kings.
Tasty Burger
Shaw
After making their way from Boston to D.C. a few years back, these tasty (and inexpensive) burgers have become a local favorite. All the basic burgers go for $5.95 or less, while a chicken parm sandwich runs $6.85. Throw in an extra $3.50, and you can make it a combo with a drink and side (fries, tots, onion rings, and salad). There's an especially good deal for students who are struggling to make ends meet: with your student ID, you can score any burger, fries and a drink for just $10.
We, The Pizza
Capitol Hill
Pizza and wings at rock-bottom prices are the specialty at We, the Pizza, which has been feeding D.C. locals on a budget since 2003. With slices for $4 or a basket of six hand-tossed wings for $7.50, you can pig out without breaking the bank, and still have room in your $10 budget for a $3 homemade soda (try the pineapple or sour cherry varieties) or a $1.50 pair of garlic knots—or sweet cinnamon knots, with vanilla-bean glaze.
Florida Avenue Grill
U Street Corridor
Looking for perfect pancakes that are fluffy but not too thick? This soul-food diner is the place to go. In business since 1944, it's become a go-to for many Washingtonians, especially since it serves up a pair of its famous hotcakes for just $4.50, all day long. Not feeling like pancakes? A quarter fried chicken runs $6, with enough money left over for a $3.50 side of mac and cheese, collard greens, or cornbread dressing.
District Rico
NoMa
If you love rotisserie chicken, then you have to visit District Rico, where the Peruvian-style roasted bird is made according to a 40-year-old family recipe that originated in Lima. A half-chicken with two sides and two sauces runs $9.89, and will likely leave you with extra leftovers for lunch the next day. There are also subs, burritos and salads available for less than $10 each.
SUNdeVICH
Shaw/Georgetown/Park View
Sometimes, all you need is a sandwich to make your day a bit brighter. Look no further than the French-style options at SUNdeVICH, which serves up each sandwich on a mini baguette. Much of the menu can be enjoyed for just $10 at breakfast (try the Zurich, with eggs, apple compote, arugula, gruyere and apple slices) or lunch (check out the Cairo, with hummus, cucumber, brined vegetables, walnuts and fresh herbs). If you want a healthier option, all three of the restaurant's salads—think spinach with goat cheese, cherries, and walnuts—are just $9.
