Matchbox

Aptly named, this narrow, three-story restaurant is always packed. Why? Three reasons: the thin-crust pizzas that come out of Matchbox’s brick oven; the platters of mini hamburgers, and the casual, fun atmosphere. In the mood for something a little fancier? Matchbox also serves traditional bistro dishes like pork tenderloin and rockfish.

Other locations: 521 8th Street, SE, between E & G Streets, Capitol Hill (1-202 548 0369); 1901 14th Street, NW, at T Street, U Street Corridor (1-202 328-0369).