I prefer to spend sunny D.C. days sitting in Dupont Circle with a snack, and my go-to is always Compliments Only, the beloved sandwich shop known for its gargantuan subs. The shop has built a devoted local following thanks to its menu of creative, mouthwatering 10-inch subs made with fresh ingredients and served on pillowy Italian bread. Whatever you order, don't leave without a pile of napkins because things will get messy.
The vibe: Completely casual and friendly—this is primarily a takeout place (there's barely any seating), and the diners who do manage to snag one of the few tables are usually facedown in their massive subs. The eclectic decor, which includes a vintage candy cigarette dispenser, adds to the quirky and welcoming ambience.
The food: The Crunchy Boi is one viral food that exceeds its hype. The shop's most famous sandwich is the ideal marriage of crunchy and creamy, thanks to a refreshing heap of potato chips, lettuce, pickles, onion, turkey, provolone, and garlic mayo. Another standout menu item is the Turkey Caesar Sub, which crowns a giant cruton with turkey, iceberg lettuce, Caesar dressing, parmesan and black pepper.
The drink: You won't find any cocktails on the menu here (just soads, lemonade, and iced teas). But there's no more elite combo than an ice cold lemonade or coke with a sandwich on a hot day.
Time Out tip: The good folks at Compliments Only know you probably want a drink with your sandwich. You're in luck if Diet Coke is your bev of choice, because every day from 2-3pm is Diet Coke Happy Hour, which means cans of the good stuff for only $1.