1 Year In…My Favorite DC Take-Out Options
In one week, it will officially be 1 year since we moved to work-from-home, which for me is essentially one year of “lockdown”. My fiancé and I have been incredibly serious about taking COVID precautions so we have been sticking to delivery groceries and supporting local restaurants by ordering takeout or sometimes delivery. I truly haven’t done a grocery shop in a grocery store since February of last year, which is just nuts.
So, now that we have been doing this take-out thing instead of going out to eat for a year, here is the round up of some of my favorite meals. The way I am “judging” this (not that it is a competition) is does it taste as good/hold up in takeout form and can I semi get the experience from home?
Sushi Ogawa: Sushi Ogawa is a DC hidden gem. I have truly been blown away by how they have adapted their menu to be pickup friendly all while maintaining their amazing menu and fish quality. They have amazing and unique specials daily as well as have added some classic rolls, maki and nigiri options. I also found their pickup process to be incredibly safe and easy,. Not to mention, their staff is so nice and friendly, and for their anniversary, they gave out gift bags to people that ordered from them!
Emmy Squared: Emmy Squared has been our favorite pizza delivery option during the pandemic and we have actually never been or seen the restaurant in person. What I love about Emmy Squared, besides the fact that the pizza is just unreal, is that they send your pizza’s with reheating instructions, which is just so so considerate. Since they are thick crust pizzas, they don’t get soggy and reheat perfectly. Just so delicious!
Rice: I truly just love Rice. I think it is one of the best Thai options in the city. it is consistently delicious, both in person and for delivery/takeout. The staff is incredibly friendly and grateful for your business and the quality is always top notch. I order from them at least once a month. I also really appreciate that their own staff runs their delivery, so you don’t have to go through a third party delivery service. (best panang curry in DC!)
Bandoola Bowl: There is a good chance that I am Bandoola’s number 1 fan. I think their bowls are packed with flavor and goodness, and travel super well. They make a great delivery options when you are looking for something light, flavorful and healthy. Their food is packed well and safely and I appreciate that they put the dressing on the side so nothing comes soggy. Truly a hidden lunch spot. Bandoola can be delivered or picked up!
Sushi Taro: I really admire the way that Shushi Taro has moved to strictly takeout. Their operation is seamless and incredibly safe- they have put a table at the bottom of their steps and you never have to step foot inside. They have also slightly altered the menu to make it takeout compatible, including some incredible bento box options. Overall, I have been incredibly impressed with the dedication to COVID protocols and safety and the consistent quality of sushi. Sushi Taro is offering only pickup options.
Anju: Anju is one of my favorite restaurants in DC, and their takeout does not disappoint. I have been incredibly impressed with the quality of their take out. As much as I would prefer to be eating in their beautiful restaurant, I find that the food travels well, they have safe pickup options and it feels super fun/fancy to have my favorite restaurant at home. You can bring Anju home via delivery or pickup from the restaurant.
Capo Italian Deli: I love Capo when I want a sandwich for lunch, I mean, just look at those sandos!!! They offer both pickup and delivery options and your sandwich always ends up at your door super quickly! I think they really stand out because they have a huge variety of sandwich options, and the quality of their ingredients are really amazing. Not to mention, you can order a Fauci Pauci to go as well!
