Eating Around

Jun 22, 2010 by Katelin

Just some updates:

Pizzeria Orso in Falls Church-  just opened its doors, but already is showing an amazing amount of progress.  The crudo, giamette and filetto were my favorites.  The crust was nicely charred and chewy, but still slightly crisp.  But a must order are the clams, cooked in a fantastic white wine garlic sauce.  Nice concise wine and beer list.  And gelatto from Dolcezza, mmm.

One World Cafe in Baltimore-  this cafe specializes in vegetarian and vegan food, but does so in a really tasty way.  A friend of mine had her rehearsal dinner here and it left everyone satisfied and not missing any meat.  Especially with the fantastic vegetable lasagna that had really good roast carrots in it.

Punk’s Backyard Grill in Annapolis- if this place franchises my husband and I both agree we would invest in a location Arlington.  Punk’s has fantastic fresh and simple food.  Grilled right when you order with always fresh ingredients.  We both had the Skinny Chicken Sandwiches- nicely grilled and still juicy chicken with herb spread, a terriyaki glaze and really good fresh bun.  The drippings from the sandwich made the perfect dip for the accompanying arugula and cherry tomatoes.  We also had a small salad and their really good red skin potato salad.  It is mashed redskins with a fantastic dressing that ends up not being heavy at all and with lots of flavor.  The Boylan’s sodas are an added bonus.  So is the dog-friendly outdoor seating.  Max had a great time laying in the shade and licking my fingers.  They were just named as one of Washingtonian’s best Cheap Eats for 2010 for good reason too, our bill was very reasonable for all we got.

Matsutake in Ballston- has slid even further downward.  Cannot be trusted.  Avoid at all costs.

Liberty Tavern in Clarendon- needs to re-work a couple dishes on the current menu that just need tweeked a tiny bit, but continues to be very good.  You can’t go wrong with their mixed seafood pasta, Vermont Pizza or their Hanger Steak.  Meanwhile their sibling Lyon Hall is very quickly getting their feet under them and turning out some great food.

Lebanese Taverna in Arlington- I love the original location for the stellar service and charm.  Their hummus is my favorite in the area (you can buy it in large tubs at the Market down the street).  I had the Mouzat the other night and the lamb shank was fantastic with great flavor in the tomato sauce and meat falling off the bone, but maintaining that great pungent lamb flavor.  And if you don’t like their freshly baked pita… well that is a great shame.  They even gave me extra pita with my leftovers.  I have to say that of all the small chains in the area this one has done the best in maintaining great quality control and service.

M&S Grill in Baltimore- if you are at Harborplace and need an option that won’t have an hour long wait and will have decent food head to M&S Grill.  Their cod was fresh and well prepared, as was the salmon.  And the steak salad is very good too.

After being under the weather I hope to get out to more places soon.

Ballstonites- have you noticed that not only are we getting a Rustico, we are also getting a Buzz Bakery!  I am so excited as Buzz has great coffee and baked goods and a really nice vibe.  Max is excited for a Buzz dog treat too!

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