Ballston Mall’s long-awaited transformation into the hip, new Ballston Quarter has brought with it a tantalizing array of fast-casual dining options. The aromas hit you as you descend the escalator from Wilson Boulevard, passing by an inviting outdoor plaza with tables and trees. Once it’s completed, this massive (25,000-square-foot) food hall will include 18 restaurant concepts, many of them originating from popular food trucks and start-ups in the greater Baltimore-Washington area. But you don’t have to wait. We’ve come up with a list of tasty items you can (and should) eat right now.
Roast duck bao at Mi & Yu Noodle Bar
These are the perfect snack – chunks (as opposed to bits) of crispy roast duck, garnished with shaved carrots, onion and cucumber and nestled in soft pillows of sweet dough. Filling at two per order, they’re a bargain for $11.50.