SeoulSpice
Eric Shin’s Korean comfort food concept turns out build-your-own bowls, “Korritos” (also known as gimbap), noodles and salads. The fast-casual format is a familiar one: Choose your preferred base, protein, vegetables, toppings and sauces as you move along an assembly line with the ingredients on display. Too many decisions? Try one of the kitchen’s signature bowls, such as the “Seoul Train” (beef bulgogi, corn, kimchi, cucumbers, kale, scallions, cilantro, garlic and sesame seeds topped with spicy sriracha) or the “Kimchi Krunch” (grilled chicken, carrots, radish, kale, kimchi, bean sprouts, garlic, sesame seeds, scallions and cilantro, topped with ginger-carrot sauce) for between $11 and $14 each. // 1735 N. Lynn St, Arlington (Rosslyn)
Peruvian Brothers
Peruvian Brothers, which also has a location in Northeast D.C.’s Latin food market La Cosecha, began as a beloved food truck that traversed the DMV. Today there are four trucks available to rent for events, as well as a sparkling new brick-and-mortar eatery in National Landing, where sibling owners Guiseppe and Mario Lanzone turn out delectable Peruvian chicken (sold in quarter, half or whole bird portions) alongside a slate of sandwiches, bowls, empanadas and saltados for between $6.50 and $17 each. The eatery’s signature Racoto hot sauce, adorned with a mini Peruvian chullo (knit hat), is available in bottles for purchase. // 1450 S. Eads St., Arlington (National Landing)
Flower Child
With its whimsical decor and health-oriented dishes, Flower Child is a go-to for vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free salads, bowls and wraps stuffed with ingredients such as ancient grains, sweet potato noodles, organic greens and seared veggies. But if you’re a meat eater, don’t worry—the cafe’s Tysons location also serves chicken yakisoba noodles and chicken enchiladas, along with the option of adding the protein of your choice (chicken, salmon, steak, shrimp or tofu) to any dish. Mains range in price from $7.45 to $28, with slight upcharges for add-ons. // 1656 Boro Place, McLean (Tysons)
Roll Play
Roll Play’s tagline, “Viet food that loves you back,” speaks to its focus on nutritious and anti-inflammatory ingredients like avocado oil and salmon in entrees ranging from $10 to $18. A Falls Church outpost that opened in April 2023 in Founders Row is the third iteration of the concept, which also has storefronts in Rosslyn and Tysons. If you weren’t already sold on the spicy oxtail pho, shrimp-and-pork egg rolls or build-your-own bowls, the Tysons and Falls Church eateries are open until 1 a.m. for those craving a late-night snack. // 944 W. Broad St., Falls Church; 8150 Leesburg Pike, Tysons; 1800 N. Lynn St., Arlington (Rosslyn)
Charga Grill
This no-frills chicken joint with restaurants on Langston Boulevard and Columbia Pike specializes in a fusion of Peruvian, South Asian and Pakistani flavors. Its namesake Charga chicken is doused in a blend of spices and then steamed and fried, but that’s hardly the only temptation on an extensive menu that also includes flavor-packed Peruvian chicken, tikka masala, biryani, kebabs and quesadillas, which you can carry out or enjoy at one of the old-school tables. Most meals cost between $12 and $21. Party platters are available for large groups. // 5151 Langston Blvd.; 3203 Columbia Pike, Arlington
Rasa
An ever-evolving menu has helped catapult the rapid expansion of this intensely flavorful Indian concept by restaurateurs Sahil Rahman and Rahul Vinod, whose empire now includes quick-service eateries across the DMV, including outposts in Crystal City and the Mosaic District. New additions include roti wraps and chef-curated bowls packed with favorites like chicken tikka or tandoori paneer, though the offerings change seasonally. Build your own bowl (beginning at $12) and tack on sides like mini samosas and chips and chutney. // 2200 Crystal Drive, Arlington (National Landing); 2905 District Ave, Fairfax (Mosaic District)
Immigrant Food
Ballston newcomer Immigrant Food isn’t technically a fast-casual restaurant (it’s a full-service concept with a few quick options available at lunch). Call it “cause casual” dining with a mission. The eatery’s eclectic menu includes everything from shakshuka and arepas to Greek-inspired wings and chicken milanesa, representing the diversity of the American melting pot. And the local chainlet’s commitment to “gastroadvocacy” is reflected in partnerships with a handful of nonprofits that provide legal aid, English language classes and other services to U.S. immigrants. Lunch options range from $9-$17, and dinner will cost up to $28 per entree. Immigrant Food also hosts a happy hour Tuesday through Saturday from 3 to 6:30 p.m. and weekend brunches from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. // 4245 N. Fairfax Drive, Arlington (Ballston)
Bayou Bakery
If you’re craving a taste of the Big Easy, chef David Guas’ beignets, chicken and sausage jambalaya, and deviled eggs are calling. Part cozy coffee and pastry shop, and part lunch spot, the Courthouse restaurant has an effusive warmth to it, and something on the menu for everyone. Find sandwiches, salads, mac and cheese, and even catfish among offerings ranging from $5-$16 per dish. Grab a refrigerated pint of jambalaya and a tub of pimento cheese to take home for dinner. // 1515 N. Courthouse Road, Arlington (Courthouse)