When it comes to restaurant food delivery, there are two schools of thought: Spend all your dining-out money at the restaurant itself, or spread the wealth by ordering through a delivery service like GrubHub or UberEats. Both roads have their pros and cons, but if you’re looking to give the restaurants themselves an extra boost while still staying home, it’s best to order from establishments that offer their own delivery service. Here are a few of the top choices:
Chadwicks, 203 Strand St.
Since the beginning of the pandemic, the Old Town favorite featuring American fare has been taking to the streets, offering delivery to hungry diners around the area. Order some burgers, ribs, shrimp and grits or pasta, maybe with a pumpkin pie or mud pie for dessert – and don’t forget some beers or wine to wash it down. Delivery offered from 4 to 9 p.m. daily. 703-836-4442.
South China Restaurant, 1302 Mount Vernon Ave.
Sometimes, the day calls for Chinese takeout and nothing else will do. When the craving hits, South China in Del Ray has you covered. Spring rolls, kung pao, lo mein, Mongolian beef – it’s all here. As are some surprises, such as South China’s Malaysian specialties, including Sayang Meehoon (fried rice noodles with tofu and shrimp) and chicken satay. Delivery offered from noon to 10 p.m. 703-549-5099.
RT’s, 3804 Mount Vernon Ave.
Need a little Cajun flair to spice up your appetite? RT’s has you covered. Feast on crawfish and shrimp beignets, gumbo, étouffée, jambalaya and more in the comfort of your own home. The restaurant offers delivery within a two-mile radius (call and ask if you’re not sure your location fits the bill). Noon-9 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday and Sunday; noon-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday; closed Monday. 703-684-6010.
Thanida Thai, 835 N. Royal St.
From pad Thai to pad eggplant, from green curry to red curry to panang, Thanida Thai takes diners on a tour of Thailand – no passport required. Sweet and sour beef, chicken, pork or tofu will add a bit of tang and pop to the proceedings; the veggies chu chee will give diners a silky smooth sauce to accompany an array of vegetables. Don’t forget the fried banana with ice cream for a sweet treat. 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. and 4 p.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday; open until 9:30 Friday and Saturday. 3:30-8:30 p.m. Sunday.
Hope Nelson is the author of “Classic Restaurants of Alexandria” and owns the Kitchen Recessionista blog, located at www.kitchenrecessionista.com. Email her any time at hope@kitchenrecessionista.com.