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Saturday, June 4, 2011

Bites Nearby: Dusit Thai Cuisine

You could stand on a corner and look around until a restaurant sign draws you in, but we've got a better idea. Each week, Kensington Patch picks a great restaurant either in town or nearby that is worth checking out. Here's this week's choice:

Dusit Thai Cuisine—Pad Thai, Spring Rolls, Pad See-Ew, Green and Panang Curry—Dusit has all of the classic Thai cuisine staples, and at reasonable prices. We have all been there: sick of the usual Chinese food order, not feeling quite adventurous enough to venture off into the depths of a new delicacy, too tired to cook dinner. It's ok. Fear not. Dusit is here to help. Most Thai appetizers will satisfy that greasy food craving, but once you get to the entrees the classic options are light enough—yet still delicious—to not leaving you feeling like you over did it. So when you feel like something new, but don't want to get too crazy, go check out Dusit. 2404 University Blvd W. Wheaton. 301-949-4140. Sun - Thu, 11:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Fri, Sat…

Saturday, May 28, 2011

Bites Nearby: Red Ginger

You could stand on a corner and look around until a restaurant sign draws you in, but we've got a better idea. Each week, Kensington Patch picks a great restaurant either in town or nearby that is worth checking out. Here's this week's choice:

Red Ginger—It's easy to drive by Red Ginger without even considering it as a dining option. Nestled behind a shopping center in Kensington, it doesn't exactly scream "Eat here." In fact, Red Ginger only does carry out and delivery—but they do it well. When your goal is instant-gratification-through-inhaling-massive-amounts-of-carryout-food-at-low-prices, Red Ginger is your solution. Suggestion: With a bevy of televised May sporting events to choose from, settle in at home to watch a game and comfort yourself by dialing Red Ginger, and have a pile of General Tso's chicken, dumplings and fried rice delivered to your door.   10525 Summitt Ave., Kensington., 301-896-0732. Hours Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday, 12-10 p.m.

Saturday, May 21, 2011

Bites Nearby: Irene's Pupusas III

You could stand on a corner and look around until a restaurant sign draws you in, but we've got a better idea. Each week, Kensington Patch picks a great restaurant either in town or nearby that is worth checking out. Here's this week's choice:

Irene's Pupusas III—Tortillas stuffed with various ingredients including beans, cheese, chicken and pork—what could be wrong with that?  Fans of this Salvadorian staple will appreciate Irene's commitment to authenticity. However, don't come expecting fine dining; Irene's is more of a quick-bite joint.  But make no mistake: Irene's is a key cog in the international dining hub that is Wheaton. Also, Wednesday is $2.50 beer night, and with Pupusas only costing $1.50 each, you could easily only total around $10 for a meal and a drink or two. Located on Georgia Avenue, there is plenty of on-street parking nearby. 11300 Georgia Ave, Silver Spring. 301-933-2118

Saturday, May 14, 2011

Bites Nearby: Full Key Restaurant

You could stand on a corner and look around until a restaurant sign draws you in. But we've got a better idea. Each week, Kensington Patch picks a great restaurant either in town or nearby that is worth checking out. Here's this week's choice:

Roasted Duck, Roasted Duck, Roasted Duck. That is the pick to choose at Full Key Restaurant. Located near the corner of University and Georgia, this area haunt has made a name for itself by mastering said duck dish, becoming a Wheaton institution as a result. Other popular options are the Roast Pork, and the Pan Fried Noodles. Do not come to Full Key simply to order the usual Chinese Food offerings—lo mein, General Tso's, etc. Come here expecting Cantonese authenticity, and you'll leave pleased.  There is plenty of on-street parking in the area, so don't be wary of driving. Also, Full Key does fill up quickly, so expect a crowd. 2227 University Blvd W. (301) 933-8388.  Mon. -Thu.,  Sun., 11 a.m . to 11:30 p.m.; Fri. to Sat. 11 a.m. to 12 a…

Richard Rice

8:03 am on Sunday, May 15, 2011

There are many other interesting and tasty dishes at this great place also. Crispy shrimp w/head on (fried) and absolutely delicious, chow foon - a noodle offering with vegetables, etc., Cod which is fried w/a rich soy sauce. My list goes on and on. Please try it! Trust me you too will love it.   more ›

Saturday, May 7, 2011

Bites Nearby: Nick's Diner

You could stand on a corner and look around until a restaurant sign draws you in. But we've got a better idea. Each week, Kensington Patch picks a great restaurant either in town or nearby that is worth checking out. Here's this week's choice:

Nick's Diner—In search of the all-American breakfast? Well, search no longer; Nick's is your spot. With a friendly wait staff, the usual diner breakfast offerings, relatively cheap prices, and the casual ambience of an old school joint, Nick's is a great low-key breakfast destination. Located in Wheaton's main drag, there is plenty of on-street parking. Also, Nick's is a great place to bring the little ones should a family outing be in the offing one weekend morning. Come here expecting the classic breakfast, and you'll leave pleased and ready to tackle the day. But leave time for a post-meal bacon-induced siesta. If you order breakfast like I do, it will probably be necessary. 11199 Veirs Mill Rd, Wheaton, MD 20902. (301) 933-5459

Anthony D Paul

8:13 am on Friday, May 13, 2011

You forgot to mention it's cash only, unless that changed since last time I went in. Requiring cash in a brick and mortar is obnoxious. Even food trucks run credit via a smart phone.   more ›

Saturday, April 30, 2011

Bites Nearby: La Preferida

You could stand on a corner and look around until a restaurant sign draws you in. But we've got a better idea. Each week, Kensington Patch picks a great restaurant either in town or nearby that is worth checking out. Here's this week's choice:

La Preferida—Trucks are pretty cool; food trucks are cooler. But a truck from which you can order tacos, pupusas and other El Salvadorian delights? Um, yes please.  La Preferida is as cheap as it gets (pupusas are $1.50-$2), as authentic as it gets (might want to brush up on your Español before you venture over there) and is also pretty popular (lunch lines are long, be warned). Some whiners out there might be annoyed that the crew speaks mostly Spanish, but if you are searching for authenticity you should be reassured by folks using their native language. Also, stop whining. Broaden your horizons, learn another language, and go get some delicious food. 6900 New Hampshire Ave, Takoma Park. 

Patch Reader

10:08 am on Sunday, May 1, 2011

"You could stand on a corner and look around until a restaurant sign draws you in. But we've got a better idea." Or you could read this vapid review and NOT learn why this food truck is any different different than any of the other mobile pupusarias around the area, including some closer to K-Town. OK, they're cheap and authentic. But according to this waste of cyberspace, the authenticity is …   more ›

Saturday, April 23, 2011

Bites Nearby: Max's Kosher Cafe

You could stand on a corner and look around until a restaurant sign draws you in, but we've got a better idea. Each week, Kensington Patch picks a great restaurant either in town or nearby that is worth checking out. Here's this week's choice:

Max's Kosher Cafe—Tucked away in a little strip mall on University Boulevard, Max's offers a ton of kosher variety. Indeed, you won't find yourself wanting more options when you order at Max's—the menu is extensive. But you don't drive  to Max's for the variety, you go specifically for two things: shwarma and falafel.  The shwarma in particular is rather savory. It's easy to be mesmerized watching it spin on its spivot behind the counter, dripping juices of deliciousness. But you have to focus, there are a bevy of topping choices to make. Choose wisely, but be decisive—there will most likely be a line of shwarmaseekers behind you eager to wrap their hands around some pita goodness.  2319 University Blvd. W, Wheaton. 301-949-6297. Mon. to …

Saturday, April 16, 2011

Bites Nearby: Negril

You could stand on a corner and look around until a restaurant sign draws you in, but we've got a better idea. Each week, Kensington Patch picks a great restaurant either in town or nearby that is worth checking out. Here's this week's choice:

Negril—There are numerous local options for authentic eats, but few beat Negril's combination of value and quality. Jamaican jerk chicken, beef patties, rice and peas; Negril has all the staples.  This spot is perfect for frugal college students and those on a budget, and won a Washingtonian Best Bargain Award as a result. Be prepared for more of a cafeteria style experience than fine dining. But it's no matter, a fancy ambience would take away from the experience of chowing down on a messy platter of jerk chicken. Also, there is plenty of on-street parking, so don't worry about driving.   965 Thayer Ave, Silver Spring, MD 20910. 301-585-3000. Mon.-Thurs., Sat. 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Fri. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Saturday, April 9, 2011

Bites Nearby: Black Market Bistro

You could stand on a corner and look around until a restaurant sign draws you in, but we've got a better idea. Each week, Kensington Patch picks a great restaurant, either in town or nearby, that is worth checking out. Here's this week's choice:

Few feelings beat coming home after a long day to find that someone considers you deserving of a finely cooked meal. It's one reason home cooking occasionally beats fine dining; it's why I make a point on first dates of mentioning my penchant for grilling; and it's why I enjoy Black Market Bistro so darn much.  Simply put, eating at Black Market Bistro is much like eating at home. Only, most homes don't come with chefs trained in new American cuisine. Choosing an old post office building as a location was a risky move, but it worked out. Indeed, the unique location adds a character sorely lacking in many new restaurants.   Be sure to make a reservation, order some mussels, and try the salmon. Also, the burgers are easily the best in the …

Saturday, April 2, 2011

Bites Nearby: El Pollo Rico

You could stand on a corner and look around until a restaurant sign draws you in, but we've got a better idea. Each week, Kensington Patch picks a great restaurant either in town or nearby that is worth checking out. Here's this week's choice:

In a town known for its authentic offerings, El Pollo Rico is king. The restaurant at 2517 University Blvd. in Wheaton, is the place for Peruvian roasted chicken; the aroma that encompasses the surrounding area is testament to that much. Succulent, savory and well worth the $5 to $10 an entrée, it's no wonder El Pollo Rico has garnered such a fervent following amongst locals. Make sure to get some sides: beans, rice, yuca, plantains and empanadas—it's all there and it's all good. Although the decor is more a take-out/quick bite place than a date/sit-down meal spot, I'd submit that if by the third or fourth date you can't take your love interest to get some cheap eats, it might be time to look elsewhere. (301) 942-4419. Mon.-Sun. 10:30 a.m…

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