So will all this hubbub about the Free Food-a-thon, my appetite has been whetted. But I crave not free food, I crave absolute deliciousness. Luckily, some of my favorites around town ain't hard on the wallet.

Etete

1942 9th St. NW
Metro: Green/Yellow to U St., 11th St/African American Memorial exit

Pronounced eh-tet-ah (it's best to mumble the last syllable), this is the best Ethiopian in the city. While I have not been to every place in Little Ethiopia, most would agree with my call on this. Some argue that Dukem is better, but those people are nothing but cheats and liars (thought it does have live music). Ask any cab driver around to list their top 3 Ethiopian places, and Etete will always make the list. If you're not familiar with Ethiopian, just let them know and they'll help you pick. Snobs beware, you eat with your hands (and delicious injera).

Taqueria Distrito Federal

3463 14th St. NW
Metro: Green/Yellow to Columbia Heights, exit North side

I frickin' love this place. If, at any point in time, you ask me "Do you want to go to the taqueria?" I will answer with a deep inhale, a far-off look, and a sighing "Mmmmm." Really, my biggest issue is deciding whether to get tacos, tortas, tostadas, or a burrito. If you like meat, there's a wide selection to choose from. You can also get everything "veggie."

Amma's Vegetarian Kitchen

3291-A M St. NW
Metro: Nowhere close, really. You could walk/Circulate from Foggy Bottom.

So, I'll let you in on a secret: I don't think Amma's is the best Indian food in the city. BUT, it is cheap, and, as a vegetarian, it's nice to go somewhere where I can order everything on the menu. And, though it's not the best, it's damn good.

Five Guys

All over town

This chain started locally and has (from my understanding/recollection) some good burgers. Unlimited toppings are great (which you can also get on the grilled cheese). Fresh cut fries with cajun spices = yum. Free peanuts while you wait, a nice touch (though they are a menace to neighborhood children). If you haven't been, you should go.

Ben's Chili Bowl

1213 U St. NW
Metro: Green/Yellow line to U St., 13th St. exit

Say what you will, but this place is historic, and I will eat anything they smother with chili and cheese. 

Ok, for real, I'm starving now. Off to pretend the sandwich I bought is some sort of the above deliciousness.