We eat really, really, really well here in DC. We’re lucky that we have plenty of food options in the district. Even though you many options, there are a few foods that you absolutely have to try and soon. If you haven’t tried one of these 9 food staples in DC, you need to make that food dining bucket list!

1. Pupusas
Flickr/Laura Tomas Avelina
Pupusas are a traditional Salvadoran. They are a corn tortilla stuffed with a savory filling. You can find them at one of the many El Salvadoran restaurants in DC.
2. Jumbo slice
Flickr/techne
You've had pizza slices before but never a piece like the jumbo slice! These massive pieces of pizza are perfect for late night meals.
3. Oysters
Flickr/urban_jenny
Everyone has to try one of the delicious fresh oysters straight from the Chesapeake in DC! They're popular around the fall when it's peak oyster season.
4. Crab cakes
Flickr/jpellgen
Our Maryland neighbors might say they have better crab cakes, but DC still does a very good crab cake made from fresh Maryland crab.
5. Georgetown Cupcake
Flickr/justgrimes
Yes, the line is long and there are many other cupcake places in DC. But the ones from Georgetown are good and it's worth being able to say you've tried them the next time a tourist is in town.
6. G-Man sub
Facebook/Mangialardo’s
The G-Man sub from Mangialardo's is a quintessential DC sub. It's an Italian sub piled with ham, salami, pepperoni, mortadella, provolone, fontina and hot peppers.
7. Half smoke
Flickr/Mr. Gray
The half smoke is probably the most iconic DC food. You can find them almost anywhere but if you want the real DC deal, head to Ben's Chili Bowl.
8. Taiwanese fried chicken
Facebook/Maketto
Taiwanese fried chicken made its debut in 2015 at Maketto but it's caught on quickly in the district. Chicken breasts are coated in peppery crust and tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce served on top of delicious French bread.
9. Ethiopian food
Flickr/trontnort
Outside of Ethiopia, DC has the largest Ethiopian population in the world. And they've brought their flavorful and beloved DC cuisine.

Have you tried any of these delicious DC foods? Keep your DC dining bucket list going with these 13 best restaurants in the district!

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