The 5 Best Most Affordable Places to Eat in the DC Suburbs

Northern Virginia and the many magnificent suburbs of Washington D.C. are home to some of the most affluent, happiest people in the nation. The quality of living index in the region is a full 20 points plus higher than in most communities in the rest of the nation. Still, that doesn’t mean there are automatically great places to eat. St. Louis has its BBQ and Texas has its Tex-Mex, San Francisco has China Town and Baltimore has seafood and crabs. But what about the DC suburbs, what is there to eat in that region? Simply put, the DC suburbs have it all, and within short driving distance. Here are 5 of the best gems, and most affordable places to eat, in the region:

• Jackson 20: Located in historic Old Town in Alexandria, this restaurant operates by the motto “you can’t go wrong with pork”. You can’t really argue with that kind of logic, look at the popularity of bacon alone today. This ambitious modern eatery offers some of the best-smoked pork on the East Coast, not to mention ribs! Besides, where else can you get fresh, hot, homemade pork rinds, a treat that, once you have it, you will crave forever!
• Urban Butcher: When a restaurant offers you a butcher’s block that you can fill up with endless delectable meats, like fresh homemade sausages, salami made from venison, smoked lamb and other treats, you can’t possible say no. The Butcher’s Block, a short ride from Northern VA in Silver Springs, MD, is one of the finest butcheries and restaurants in the nation, and even their cocktails are affordable, with none costing more than $10.
• 2941 Restaurant: This restaurant, located in idyllic Falls Church, is run by one of the finest chef’s in the land. It has a menu loaded with eclectic fare like duck-foie gras burgers, white asparagus velouté soup, and oyster 4 ways. It features plantation-style architecture, and yes, real koi ponds. Sounds scrumptious, yes, but REALLY expensive. Well, it is delicious, but is casual fine cuisine, with prices from $9-$25. Quite affordable, and extremely delicious.
• Jinya Ramen Bar: Fairfax has its share of great eateries as well, and one of the best and a must-visit is the Jinya Ramen Bar. Ramen, you ask, isn’t that the chicken and beef stuff that comes in square packs at the supermarket for a quarter? Just add water? That is nothing like the fresh, made from scratch ramen noodle dishes, fresh buns, and even mini-kimchee and pork tacos. Try it once and you’ll be back for more, time and time again.
• Captain Gregory’s: This Alexandria mainstay is widely known for its great food and friendly service, with no dish more than $30. How can you go wrong at a place where the Sunday special involves experimental cocktails? While they are known for serving some of the best cocktails anywhere near DC, the menu is exciting as well, as they offer livers, seafood, sweetbreads, even tartare and pork belly. It sounds expensive, it even tastes expensive, but it is extremely affordable!