Hidden Gems with Design Sponge: Washington DC

June 6, 2012 1:00 pm ET

This weekend take the guess work out of enjoying the city with Design Sponge, a design blog that allows for intimate looks at your surroundings.

Visiting the DC area and want to live like a local? Grace Bonney has created a sure fire guide that would make any Washingtonian proud. From Capital Hill to U street, Grace encompasses all things Washington giving you an insiders look. Here are three hidden gems not to miss in the District:

1.  On Capital Hill nothing is more authentic than Eastern Market.  From antiques to fresh meats Eastern Market has something for everyone.  Make sure not to miss some of the local restaurants that locals keep a secret.  Just down the block is Ted’s Bulletin, a diner with a gourmet spin on your classic diner feel.

photo by Eastern Market DC

2.  Looking for a more eclectic area with a cornucopia of different foods? U Street is a must!  Grace has captured the best the area has to offer.  No list of DC would be complete without Ben’s Chili Bowl, a staple for any true Washingtonian.  Either choose a half smoke or a normal hotdog and allow them to top it with their amazing chili.  Local secret, they offer a vegetarian dog/chili and the restaurants is cash only!

photo by Ben's Chili Bowl

3.  Looking for rustic antiques?  Georgetown flea market offers a wide variety of knickknacks for all collectors!  Stationed near Hardy Middle School, this flea market has been supplying Georgetown residents with treasures since 1972.  A must see on Sunday’s the flea market is peppered with magnificent political antiques from DC’s “cave-dwellers.”  Local secret, if you’re traveling by car, it’s easy to find parking across the street at Safeway.

photo by Georgetown Flea Market

Click HERE to read about more of Grace Bonney’s hidden gems.

Featured image by Design Sponge