How to Eat in Washington, D.C., on the Cheap

The nation's capital is a great choice for the budget traveler, mostly because many of the main tourist attractions are free. Good food comes in a wide variety of price ranges, but you should still be able to eat well without destroying your budget.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Local Guidebooks
• Maps
• Local Newspapers
• Travel Services
• Maps

1. Pick up a budget guidebook before you head to D.C.; most good travel guides should have restaurant listings categorized by neighborhood, price range and type of cuisine.

2. Look at some local dining and entertainment Web sites before you leave home, or visit an Internet café after you arrive. You'll probably find lots of searchable listings, restaurant reviews and other useful information.

3. Find out about affordable restaurants in the area where you're staying ' the management of your hotel should be able to make some useful suggestions. Some hotels may keep sample menus from nearby restaurants at the front desk.

4. Consider eating at Asian, Middle Eastern or Latin American restaurants ' some of the best food buys in town fall into these categories. In general, avoid French and Italian restaurants (other than pizza places) as they tend to be more expensive.

5. Look for classic American food choices ' this city is, after all, at the heart of American history and culture. Check posted menus carefully, of course, to be sure the restaurant falls into your price range.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy a copy of the Washington Post and other local papers or magazines as soon as you arrive, and check out the restaurant listings and reviews.
• Ask students and interns where the food bargains are ' they will probably know the best budget places around.
• Stray from the tourist track whenever possible. Restaurants and cafés at museums and other points of interest may be more expensive than similar establishments just a short distance away.

on 8/8/2006 Grab a picnic lunch from a grocery store or small market and enjoy one of the many parks or public squares.