The Italian Store
There isn’t an Italian-American or a New York or Boston transplant within 20 miles who hasn’t made a pilgrimage to The Italian Store. The original location at the intersection of Lee Highway and Spout Run has long been a go-to for hard-to-find imported ingredients and a hit of that amazing aroma found only in Italian delis. After your first visit to this popular Italian market, which also serves stellar sandwiches and pizza, you’ll likely spend the rest of your days trying to figure out the best time to go to avoid the crowds. (Pro tip: The best time is not at noon on a sunny Saturday.) Order from the counter, peruse the sauces and pastas while you wait, grab an Aranciata soda, pay and find a place to sit and savor whatever deliciousness struck your fancy.
3123 Lee Highway, Arlington, italianstore.com
Taqueria el Poblano
Back in 1999, before there was a Chipotle or District Taco on every corner, chef Glen Adams decided to bring the food of his native Southern California to the Washington, D.C. area. He now operates three Taqueria el Poblano locations in Arlington and Del Ray, where the kitchens please crowds with such dishes as fish tacos, duck carnitas and tacos al pastor, washed down with award-winning margaritas that start with an all-natural, house-made base. (Spice fans might want to try the Sweet Fire Marg, spiked with ginger and jalapeños.) The local favorite also handles catering with only 24 hours’ notice.
2503-A N. Harrison St., Arlington, taqueriapoblano.com