When my best friend from college came into town, she mentioned there was a kosher deli in Dupont.  I, of course, was intrigued and was looking forward to trying it out.  Unfortunately, we had just eaten breakfast so I wasn’t ready to order anything else.  Instead, I went with a friend for lunch a few weeks later.

  • Food: I don’t know about you, but to me — pastrami or corned beef were the two sandwiches I was looking forward to trying.  I kept waffling and finally ordered the pastrami which was a great sandwich.  It came with chips and a pickle.  I think it might have been a homemade pickle because it had a distinct, yet salty and sweet yummy flavor.  While the sandwich wasn’t as big as I thought it was going to be (like you get in NY), there was still enough for 4 sandwiches! 

Eli's Pastrami on Rye 

I’ve since gone back and gotten their Reuben.  Pretty good stuff and there was “cheese” (it’s a Kosher restaurant so it wasn’t real).  Still though, nothing like So’s Your Mom Reuben.  I think I’m no longer ordering Reubens unless I’m at SYM. 

Eli's Reuben

  • Service: We ordered to go, but they were nice. 
  • Atmosphere: The interior reminds me a bit of Cheers, but with more sunlight.
  • Attire: Casual
  • Price: $
  • Overall: I think it’s a great sandwich place and would absolutely go again.

Details:

  • Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11 AM-9 PM; Friday 11 AM-2:30 PM
  • Address: 1253 20th Street NW; Washington, DC 20036
  • Ph: 202-785-4314