How good can a pretzel be, really? That’s a question you’ll never ask yourself again after your first visit to The Pretzel Bakery. Producing hand-rolled, small batch Philly-style soft pretzels out of a small door in a tiny storefront, this local favorite has grown into a Washington, D.C. destination spot for hearty snackers. So what’s the big draw? Plain and simple, these are some of the best pretzels you’ve ever eaten. Soft and fluffy on the inside with the perfect amount of crust and salt on the outside, all you need to pair them with is a little mustard (which you dispense yourself) and you’ve got the snack of a century. You can also opt for fancier toppings like Nutella and caramel mustard for a buck. Considering pretzels are just $2 apiece (and cheaper if you buy in bulk), that’s quite a deal. The Pretzel Bakery also lets you quench your thirst with a variety of Pennsylvania regional soda pops.

The Pretzel Bakery
340 15th Street SE
Washington, DC 20003
(202) 251-0953

www.thepretzelbakery.com
www.yelp.com/biz/the-pretzel-bakery-washington

CC-BY-SA-2.0/Flickr logatfer

Located in Georgetown, Thunderburger throws down when it comes to burgers and exotic meats. This gourmet burger restaurant has a lot of rock and roll attitude with inventive food. Beef burgers are made from free-range beef and favorites include the Love Me Tender with aged white cheddar, tomato and remoulade, and the Buffalo Stomp, a bison burger wrapped in bacon and topped with gorgonzola cheese, and grilled onions. For vegetarians, the Rock The Casbah burger with a falafel patty with a cucumber yogurt sauce is a tasty option. For more adventurous eaters, Thunderburger is known for unique meats and the regular menu offers an Elk burger. Their specials menu offers even more exotic options like turtle fritters, kangaroo and alligator bites, and ostrich. The rock and roll menu pairs well with the creative menu, and makes for a fun, casual meal with a unique twist.

Thunderburger
3056 M Street NW
Washington, DC 20007
(202) 333-2888

www.thunderburger.com/index2.html
www.yelp.com/biz/thunder-burger-and-bar-washington

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr TheHungryDudes

The 9:30 Club delights music lovers with its superior sound system and a remarkable bill of cutting edge acts. The venue is clean and air-conditioned, serving fairly-priced food and drinks. Regulars can't stop raving about the sound quality, which makes it easy to overlook that the space is standing room only. It's the roster of performers, however, that continues to draw in the crowds. The 9:30 Club books both legends and independent bands alike. Previous performances have included Hank Williams III, Stars, Garbage, Goldfrapp, and Brazilian Girls. Upcoming shows include Man Man, Lotus, Trombone Shorty, Simple Minds, Gogol Bordello and Ani diFranco. Check the website for specific show and ticketing information.

9:30 Club
815 V Street NW
Washington, DC 20001
(202) 265-0930
www.930.com
www.yelp.com/biz/9-30-club-washington

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/Sam Foles