Many of the restaurants on the Washingtonian Cheap Eats List are not cheap. Cheap to someone like Bill Gates, sure, but not your average money maker. When my Mom comes to town, I always take her some where on the cheap eats list and she, not knowing we are sampling the best of the bargains, remarks on how expensive DC is. If I took her to an expensive restaurant noted with just three $$$ (instead of four or five) she would probably eat the menu rather than order a $28 entrée. Even if some one else is paying, she just wouldn't enjoy her self. I'm willing to fork over a lot of cash for a good meal, but my Mom is right DC is expensive. According to CNN.com, the average meal in DC is $33.68 ($68.94 at the 20 priciest restaurants) and I’m assuming that includes one drink, at the most. The article was written in 2005, so I would add on a few bucks for good measure (I can't remember the last time I went for dinner and paid less than $40).
On the npr the other day, I heard the word DEPRESSION and they were not referring to my mental health. So, it's good to report that a meal at Taqueria Distrito Federal is actually cheap, costing about the same as a super sized meal at McDonalds. Taqueria uses fresh, simple ingredients, and provides an authentic experience you won’t find replicated in 31,000 restaurants worldwide. My favorite was the Carnitas Sopes ($2.75) and the cilantro salsa that comes with tortilla chips. I also enjoyed a Carnitas Taco ($2.00). If you are in Columbia Heights, it’s a great stop for lunch or a casual dinner.
