Foggy Bottom

Kirk Francis (a.k.a. Captain Cookie) seems to have found a workaround for the classic seasonal conundrum of ice cream shops—locals go to him in the winter for warm chocolate chip cookies, and in the summer for made-to-order ice cream sandwiches. The superhero-themed shop—and its’ three corresponding food trucks—are famous for cookies that are made completely from scratch; he even makes his own vegan butter for vegan cookies. Note: His trucks can be booked for private events.

Despite the name, José Andrés’ fast-casual joint in D.C. (there’s also a location in Philly now) puts all of the focus on vegetables. You’ll pick a base of bulgur, quinoa, rice, or leafy greens, and top it with vegetables and some oomph, like an avocado or a poached egg. The pre-made favorites, like the excellently named “Frida Kale,” or the “Kimchi-wa” bowls, sort of take out the guesswork. There's a second location in Dupont Circle.