Bites Nearby: Samantha's Restaurant

On a perfectly mild late-summer night, do not even think about defrosting a pizza and parking it in front of the TV. In fact, eating indoors while summer blesses us with her last shorts-and-t-shirts nights should be against the law. Instead, head to the patio at Samantha's Restaurant with a pal and soak up the last of summer. 

This Salvadorean gem is a favorite of Kensington, Wheaton, Silver Spring and Chevy Chase residents, located at the intersection of all four communities. The expansive patio is one of the few locations in the Connecticut/University crossroads area to offer al fresco dining.

Order a cerveza, Golden Cadillac magarita or a refreshing non-alcoholic glass of horchata or maracuya agua fresca. Then tuck in to the flaky chips and spicy salsa as you wait for your much-anticipated meal to arrive.

You can order from either the Especialidades de la Casa (House Specialities)/Salvadorean/Cuban or Platos Favoritos/Mexican menus. The beef entrees on both sides are especially tasty, including lomo saltado - tenderloin tips satueed with vegetables and french fries, the carne asada (the 10 oz. portion seems even larger) and the tacos al carbon.

Vegetarians will also find loads of options, including chiles rellenos, spinach or cheese enchiladas and pupusas. Special dishes you will not find at most local Latin restaurants include fried cassava with pork (yuca con chicarron) and a slow-cooked, savory seafood stew (zarzuela andaluza).

Entrees average from $11-$18. Reservations are not necessary.

631 University Boulevard East Silver Spring, MD. (301) 445-7300.

Open Sun - Thu, 11am - 11pm; Fri, Sat, 11am - midnight.