The most famous Black-owned restaurant in DC doesn’t make the best food in the city, but we never pass up the chance to grab a half-smoke at Ben's Chili Bowl anyways. Prepare to wait in line to get some food, which you can eat at the counter or, if you're lucky, at one of the few red booths. Get the original chili half-smoke with all the fixings, and make sure you ask them to split it. It comes with ridged potato chips, but you can always swap for an order of fries instead.

Halfsmoke is a '90s DC kid’s dream, so take advantage of the opportunity to step back in time at this Shaw establishment with throwback board games, metal lunch boxes, and VHS tapes. Lounge on one of the futons as you dive into boozy milkshakes adorned with old favorites like candy necklaces. Try the Cinnamon Toast Crunch-coated french toast, which is the Saturday morning breakfast you didn’t know you were missing.

Some nights at His & Hers in Woodridge, there’s a DJ spinning a set that will make you want to dance more than eat. Except the upscale American food is so damn good, you won’t be able to put it down. Everything on the menu is bomb, like the spinach and artichoke dip, fried cauliflower nuggets, and lamb chops. But if you’re really stuck, get the ragin’ cajun pasta and have them add all the proteins.

The best barbecue doesn’t come out of swanky restaurants. DCity Smokehouse is a testament to the fact that sliding into the local spot to grab your smoked meat is the best way to go. The Bloomingdale restaurant serves up brisket, turkey, ribs, and more in a refurbished garage splattered in all things DC and HBCU. The smoked wings will burst in your mouth when you bite through the crispy skin—pair them with the tangy housemade barbecue sauce.

Ward 8 deserves all of the best things, and this restaurant is one of them. Kitchen Savages is all about the community, and brings a much-needed fancy spot east of the river, complete with black linen tablecloths, gold flatware, and comfortable blue velvet chairs. It’s a good pick for date night or just for a fun ‘round the way evening. From the signature Savage fries to the jerk lamb chops, you can taste the care that goes into every bite at this Anacostia soul food spot.

The Players Lounge in Congress Heights has been a community staple since the '70s and on any given night, you’ll find it packed with regulars enjoying the A1 soul food and family feel. It’s a step back in time, with stained-glass Michelob overhead lamps, wood paneled walls and an old-school cash register. You’ll find most folks packed into the bar area, but there’s also extra seating in the back. Grab some chicken wings with the greens and mac and cheese and you’re in for a good time.

There are a number of spots that have taken the Black clubstaurant idea and run with it, but The Park on 14th paved the way and we like to give credit where credit is due. You aren’t going to get good food here (or at most clubstaurants), so put that out your mind. But you will have a good time, whether you show up for Happy Hour, brunch, or a late-night grinding session. The vibe is always different, depending on the time of day, day of the week, and which of the four floors you’re on.

This upscale restaurant has been open since 1993 and combines luxury dining with classic southern cuisine. The restaurant aims to transport you to a New Orleans jazz club complete with a grand piano and arched windows. Although we’ve had better soul food, the meals here leave us satisfied. The catfish fingers, the fried green tomatoes, and the banana pudding are popular and worth the hype. If you’re looking for a classy night out and a classic meal to go with it, Georgia Brown’s is your spot.

With one of the largest Ethiopian communities in the country, great Ethiopian restaurants in the city are not in short supply. And some of the best DC has to offer can be found at Letena in Columbia Heights. When you order the vegetarian sampler, you get a beautifully plated meal full of vibrant vegetables that’ll have you thanking whatever higher power you believe in for bringing you this far. After a few cups of honey wine and an order of the silky tiramisu, you’ll feel buzzed and blessed.