Don’t confuse this place with the similarly-named Tex-Mex chain. Instead, think California cuisine in Dupont Circle. This casual dine-in and carry-out spot has mellow music and a small patio. Boasting “No Fillers and No Additives,” Baja prides itself on making everything fresh daily and pays special attention to vegetarians. Choose your Cabo (open-face tortilla stuffed with a variety of good things like cheese and steak) wisely and eat it at one of the many tables in the pink and green restaurant. Pick up a triple rich brownie or strawberry cheesecake for dessert.

See more: Downtown restaurants, American restaurants, Californian restaurants, Mexican restaurants, Tacos/burrito restaurants