Noelle Yasso

Ridiculously over-the-top, but a must-see/eat for all chocoholics. I went there for the first time with a friend and even though it was incredibly busy and seating at the bar was full, we were able to get a table rather quickly. Inside, the atmosphere was vibrant, the staff was friendly and super-hip (what else do you expect from the East Village), and just looking at the menu made my mouth start to water. It's been like this every time I've gone in. The hot chocolate is still one of the best I've ever had. Most of the desserts on the menu are delicious, though some, like the chocolate pizza, are a little too much, even for me. It's not exactly cheap, but it's still within the range of everything in the area. Definitely worth a visit.

Quick Pita is what Lebanese/Middle Eastern fast food tastes like -obviously not as delicious as the real thing, but better than your average take-out. The bread is authentic, and their spinach/meat pies aren't half-bad, though a little greasy. The best part is that it's open until 3 or 4AM every day. And at that hour, a halloumi and tomato sandwich tastes like manna from heaven.

Part-grocery store, part-cafe with some outdoor seating, Marvelous Market is my stop of choice whenever I need to grab a quick lunch. Everything in there simply tastes good, and their pastries truly feel homemade, My favorite is the caprese sandwich - roasted tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, fresh basil, olive oil, and pesto on a baguette. Apparently they also donate all their leftover foods to local charities, so I can feel good about eating there, too.

I wasn't too impressed either. True, the interior is pretty cozy for a chain, but I've gone there a number of times and I always end up disappointed. The food always LOOKS better than it tastes. Last time my French onion soup was way too cheesy, even for the cheese-lover that I am, and the chocolate dessert was stale. That said, La Madeleine is still better than Bistro Francais and fine for a quick meal. But head over to Le Pain Quotidien down the street for the really good stuff.

So I haven't actually dined there, but I've ordered many times from this place and it's delicious and filling. Much much better than Kitchen No. 1 or Canal Express or any of the usual Chinese places from which college kids order food. Their Beef with Mixed Vegetables is particularly good. Highly recommended - and not just for a late-night study snack!

I've sampled a number of Indian restaurants in this city and this is by far my favorite. Though I wouldn't know much about authenticity, I do know when something tastes good. It's even better when I don't have to spend a lot of money.

Truly one of the most romantic restaurants in DC. It's small, dimly-lit, but oh-so-cozy and well-decorated. The atmosphere totally makes up for the food quality that can sometimes be mediocre.