I love a good sit down restaurant, but sometimes when I’m on the go and want something quick I really appreciate a fast casual spot. Luckily when it comes to fast casual restaurants in the DMV, just because it’s fast, doesn’t mean you have to compromise on freshness or flavor! Here are some of my favorite picks for fast casual dining in the DMV.
CHIKO (pronounced chai-koh) at The Village at Shirlington and Bethesda Row offers a thoughtful marriage of Chinese and Korean flavors, while still maintaining a fast-casual and approachable vibe. I always order (and love) their crowd favorite: the Orange-ish Chicken. I’m nothing short of obsessed with the texture of the crispy chicken combined with the candied mandarins and hot peppers. I also enjoyed a refreshing Asian Pear/Szechuan Peppercorn Limeade, which thankfully was more earthy than spicy. If you’re as big of a fan of their dumplings as I am, they also offer a Dumpling Happy Hour with dumplings and Soju Smashes all week!
I was craving something spicy so I visited the Westpost location of Hangry Joes Hot Chicken & Wings. This spot specializes in unapologetically spicy Nashville hot chicken, but also offers other chicken-centric menu items like Korean chicken nuggets, chicken wraps and sandwiches, and even chicken and waffles! You have a variety of heat levels to choose from for a customizable experience, including their hottest (which requires a waiver): Angry Hot. I’m a chicken when it comes to heat, so I stuck with Medium, but their fingers and sandwich definitely hit the spot after shopping at Westpost.
If you’re looking for a fast casual concept that has something for every lifestyle, you have to check out Flower Child in Wildwood Shopping Center. They have fresh but super flavorful quality ingredients you don’t have to go to a sit down restaurant or break the bank for. Their options range from vegan, vegetarian, paleo or gluten-free! My personal favorite was the Mediterranean chicken bowl but we also enjoyed the yakisoba noodles.
NYC-based cafe maman brings French cafe vibes to the heart of Bethesda Row. In comparison to other spots on the list, Maman definitely has more of a “fast cozy” feel, with its ornate flower decor, open and airy feel, and matching blue willow china. They offer everything from a generous case of delicious pastries, to sandwiches, salads, and a drink menu including cocktails! This is a fast casual spot that you’ll want to take your time in.
RASA at Montrose Crossing is truly a fast casual spot, hosting a build-your-own bowl counter with vibrant and fresh Indian flavors. If you get overwhelmed by the choices, don’t fret. They have chef-curated bowls to take the guesswork out! They recently rolled out new bowls such as the Tandoori Paneer Bowl, the Tikka Chance on Me and (my personal favorite pictured separately): the Spicy Chili Chicken Bowl. Make sure to order a cup of their refreshing mango lassi to round out the meal!
