Where to Eat: Bub and Pop’s

We are always, ALWAYS, on the lookout for places in DC that feel “local.” DC is notorious for not really having a food scene, but that has really begun to change in the last few years and there are now places we can proudly call our own. We are delighted to have found a new joint that will be high on this list of local spots worth bragging about.

“Bub and Pop’s” is a sandwich shop located on 18th and M NW, just a few blocks south of Dupont Circle. It’s got a warm, homespun feel, super friendly owners (Arlene made us feel like long time customers), and, most importantly, food that you’ll remember. If you have a hankering for a sandwich, and there is any possibility you can make your way to 18th and M, it is totally worth it.

Chicken Parmesan Sandwich

So far, we’ve tried several menu items, and we’ve been happy with all of them! The Chicken Parmesan sandwich was particularly memorable because it is so hard to find a good one. It is so common to bite into a chicken parm and be underwhelmed by a simple dry breaded cutlet with drab marinara sauce on top, some limp cheese, and no personality (or much flavor). Bub and Pop’s does not fall prey to this trap- they use fresh-tasting ingredients and add carmelized onion and arugula to give the sandwich flavor and flare. And it works.

Fried Peanut Butter and Jelly

Now, we don’t often go for dessert after lunch, but we did at Bub and Pop’s. They have this thing on the menu called “Fried Peanut Butter and Jelly.” Color us intrigued! We ordered it and were served what looked sort of like if funnel cake and a PB & J had the world’s most amazing baby. For added punch, they serve it with a super fancy vanilla dipping sauce (described as “liquid ice cream”).  It definitely added something, but was not as vanilla-y as we would have liked. But the Fried PB & J was everything we’ve ever wanted and more. It had powdered sugar on top, this incredible crunch, and tons of taste. If you skip dessert here, you are missing out!

So next time you have a hankering for a delicious bite in a place that’s not a chain, head over to Bub and Pop’s. They won’t disappoint!