MichelleMunches

A new site, a new look, but the same old me! Long time no see, but I think I’m finally making my return to blogging after almost 3 years! These year-in-review posts are always my favorite and the ones I look forward to writing the most, so I hope you enjoy this 2025 year in review.

Here are the top spots I visited each month:

January

DIG [hosted]
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I started the year off right by checking out DIG in Bethesda, MD. I had been eyeing this place since I first heard it was opening. Imagine if Chipotle and Panera had a baby, but elevated. DIG serves scratch-made, home-cooked meals in a fast-casual setting. I was able to try several items, but what stands out to me—what I keep going back for—are the sandwiches (which aren’t on their online menu) and their bowls. I love loading them up with charred broccoli with lemon, farro salad, and their delicious protein options, from herb-roasted chicken to crispy chicken thigh to seared wild salmon—there are no bad choices here.

Surf n Turf
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While I started the year off strong by cooking this extravagant “Munches Meal,” I barely did much cooking after that. I’m not sure why I lost the enjoyment, but it’s definitely something I want to get back into in 2026. This meal was so delicious and definitely pushed me out of my comfort zone. I rarely cook steak or lobster, but when I do, I go all out. This meal is also definitely not healthy by any means—it’s loaded with butter, but hey, all good things are! If you’re looking for a “fancy” meal to make at home, I’d recommend checking out my reel and giving this a try yourself!

February

Kanpai [hosted]
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Kanpai, located on Rockville Pike in Rockville, MD, is part of a new wave of Asian restaurants that opened in 2025. Kanpai offers Southeast Asian shabu-shabu, BBQ, and a small buffet. It’s the best of all worlds, clearly. The restaurant is also STUNNING, with lush greenery, beautiful wallpaper, and gold accents— it feels very regal inside. I definitely think this is one of my new favorite spots for shabu-shabu and BBQ! As a Southeast Asian gal, I was most impressed to see papaya salad and woonsen on their buffet lineup. My favorite meat options were the kalbi and pork belly, but if you try only one thing, it has to be the Hokkaido scallops on the grill! So delicious and fresh!

March

Crimson Coward [hosted]
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In recent years, it feels like hot chicken joints have popped up everywhere, with options like Hangry Joe’s, Dave’s Hot Chicken, and of course, Crimson Coward. I had heard about Crimson Coward many times from my foodie friends, but there were none close to me, so I hadn’t had the chance to try it. Luckily, they opened two locations near me in 2025! Although they all serve similar items, I feel like you can’t really compare them because it would be like comparing gala apples to honeycrisp apples—they’re both apples, but each has its own flavor profile and style. I really enjoy the chicken tenders (medium), Joey-style fries, the Crimson sandwich, Crimson onions, and fried pickles—basically everything on the menu!

April

Peri Peri [hosted]
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Originating in the United Kingdom and now with 15 locations in the DMV, Peri Peri offers a vast menu ranging from chicken to burgers to tacos to wraps and more. I checked out the Ellicott City location, and my favorites were the fried chicken, seasoned fries, and Passionfruit Mojito! The chicken was perfectly seasoned, golden, and juicy. Everything is also certified halal, and they serve only hormone- and antibiotic-free chicken!

May

Poyoteca [hosted]
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I’ve loved Poyoteca for years, ever since I first tried them in Baltimore. I recently checked out their newest location in Rockville, MD, where they started launching their new empanadas! There are four flavors: beef, chicken, lomo, and veggie. The beef was definitely my personal favorite. They also have delicious dishes like lomo saltado and the Southwest bowl, but if you try only one thing, I highly recommend the yuca fries—and don’t forget the yellow sauce!

Noi’s Kitchen [hosted]
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When they first reached out, I was ecstatic to check them out! As a half-Thai gal, I always love eating Thai food because it’s comforting and brings back some of my best memories. Noi’s Kitchen is a food truck, typically located at 2922 Duke St, Alexandria, VA, in the Shell gas station parking lot, but they can also be found at Lost Boy Ciders (317 Hooffs Run Dr, Alexandria, VA 22314) on occasion. Definitely check their Instagram to see where they’ll be. I love that everything is made fresh to order by Chef Nee! My favorites are the shrimp in a blanket, basil fried rice, drunken noodles, and the lime Thai tea!

June

Pisco Y Nazca [hosted]
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I was fortunate to check out Pisco Y Nazca’s third location in the DMV, in Bethesda, MD. Known for their fresh ceviches, Pisco Y Nazca offers a modern twist on traditional Peruvian cuisine with savory, innovative dishes and unique cocktails—it’s a gastronomic dream. The menu at Bethesda differs a bit from the Washington, DC location. My favorites at Bethesda are the tuna tartare tacos and lomo saltado to bite, and the Chilcanos Guapo and Pisco Sours to sip!

July

Rooted3 Fare
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I stumbled upon Rooted3 Fare during a walk around downtown Bethesda, MD. I first noticed the beautiful mural and outdoor dining space, and once inside, it felt like I was in a gardenscape with all the cut flowers and vibrant greenery. They have a small health food market in the store where you can shop for your next snack or drink. They also make bowls and smoothies in-house. I really loved the Panacea smoothie! I also love that everything is 100% organic, naturally plant-based, anti-inflammatory, and allergen-free!

Carbe Diem Pasta [gifted] – Dairy Free Penne Alla Vodka
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I had been wanting to try Carbe Diem Pasta, so I was thankful when they gifted me a box to try! I love Carbe Diem pasta because it tastes just like regular pasta but has lower net carbs, more fiber, and fewer calories. I used it to make a dairy-free penne alla vodka. Check out my reel for the recipe, and make sure to tag me if you try it!

The Purple Pig (Chicago)
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I went on a girls’ trip to Chicago this summer and had the best time exploring the city! I used ChatGPT to help me curate an itinerary and find the best places to eat, and all the lists said we had to try The Purple Pig. Having been there myself, I couldn’t agree more! They’ve been recognized by the Michelin Bib Gourmand since 2011 and are known for their nose-to-tail cooking. I’d say I’m a pretty adventurous eater, but I was hesitant to try a few of the dishes, for sure. I had never eaten pig’s ear or bone marrow before, but the way they prepare it here is phenomenal. Truly, I can’t say enough good things. The crispy pig’s ear didn’t taste like I expected at all—it was light, airy, and crispy, with amazing flavor paired with the egg and veggies. The bone marrow was out of this world! Literally, every other table had an order of it, so naturally, we had to order one too! Do not miss out on these two, as well as the squid ink chitarra! Those would definitely be my top 3 must-try dishes here.

August

Hawker Haus [hosted]
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Hawker Haus is this season’s belle of the ball, in my opinion. A noodle stall typically found at festivals like the NVA Thai Market or Asia in a Bite Festival, Hawker Haus has brought the best chili garlic noodles to the DMV. The noodles are so chewy and bouncy, paired with their flavorful sauces—it’s a match made in heaven! I love the house special sauce with all the toppings!

Tempo Meals
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As I mentioned earlier, I really lost the joy of cooking and just couldn’t be bothered. We decided to try out some meal kit delivery services to see if they could help bridge the gap for a bit. I had tried HelloFresh in the past and liked it, but I wanted to try something new. So, I started with HungryRoot, but that still involved way too much cooking for me at the time. We then found Tempo Meals by HomeChef and decided to give them a try. Think TV dinner, but healthier. We used them for several months—at first to try them out, but then mama munches had major surgery, and we needed to focus all our energy there. These meals really came in clutch to keep me healthy, but took the pressure off having to cook and think about my next meal. They were great at first, but eventually, they started to feel repetitive. The flavors began to blend together, and I just didn’t enjoy them by the end. However, I’d say they were a lifesaver during that time. I would do them again if something like that were to happen and we needed meals in a pinch. I think they’re also great for portion control, but a big con, in my opinion, is that they’re pretty pricey.

September

Pop-Up District [hosted]
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A new Asian food hall in Eden Center in Falls Church, VA! I love a place with options, so this was definitely calling my name. I was so excited to collaborate with them! As an indecisive gal who loves to have a little bit of everything, this place is heaven for me. You can get moo ping and khao soi from Eatsy Thai, Bún Bò Huế from Sun C, and LA galbi from Honey Pig Cupbop—all at the same time! Definitely make sure to also get a matcha cloud from Doppo! You can also enjoy a drink at the bar or take photos in the photo booth.

Sho Sushi & Izakaya [hosted]
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Hands down, my new favorite sushi spot in the DMV! Located in McLean, VA, this hidden gem is called Sho. They have some of the freshest fish I’ve ever tasted, along with some of the most comforting dishes. I was invited in to check out “A Taste of Autumn at Shō”—their fall menu—which featured a kabocha shepherd’s pie and Shō quiche, both of which were my personal favorites, as well as pumpkin ravioli, tempura quail egg skewers, and kabocha skewers. I highly recommend trying the sushi flights or checking out their Shōmakse items. If you’re a tuna lover (which I’m becoming because of them!), you have to go on Wednesday nights to try Chef Tony’s tekkadon special—the tuna is melt-in-your-mouth good!

October

Taan Thai Food [gifted]
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After having such delicious khao soi at Eatsy Thai in Pop Up District earlier this year, I was so thankful to be gifted this khao soi meal kit from Taan Thai Food! My dad, Papa Munches, taught me a lot about cooking, and of course, he taught me my favorite Thai dishes. However, we didn’t have khao soi growing up, and I’ve definitely been missing out! This kit made it so easy for me to make at home—I only needed 5 minutes and my choice of protein! If Thai food feels intimidating to you, I highly recommend checking out their kits to make weeknights a little easier when the cravings hit!

N0vember

Fish with You [hosted]
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Fish with You is one of those spots that can be intimidating if you’re not familiar with this type of cuisine. I grew up eating Chinese sauerkraut, or suan chi, and knew I would like that, but I was definitely a little nervous to try the fish, if I’m being honest. I can confidently say there’s nothing to be nervous about—they do such an amazing job cleaning and cooking the fish that it doesn’t taste fishy at all! You can choose between bass or snakehead for any of the dishes. Personally, I liked the bass better—it had a meatier texture, which I preferred. Don’t worry, though! If you’re not into fish, they also have a few beef dishes that are just as delicious and definitely worth trying.

Cypress Restaurant & Bar [hosted]
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Located right in my backyard is Cypress Restaurant & Bar in Seven Park, MD! Y’all, growing up, there wasn’t a lot of good food around—honestly, it’s still a work in progress in my opinion. But it’s places like Cypress that are making it better! Cypress has been open just over a year now, and they serve up fresh seafood and hearty classics. It’s definitely on the pricier side, but they have specials every night of the week! Check out their website here for more details. Must-tries are the sangria flight, smoked burrata, and seared scallops!

December

Yu Noodles Rosslyn [hosted]
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Like hot chicken, Yu Noodles are popping up all over the DMV! I had tried their Towson, MD location prior to this visit and noticed that the menus differ slightly from location to location. Yu Noodles in Rosslyn, VA, specializes in pizza soup dumplings, which are super unique! They taste exactly like a slice of pizza in a pillowy dough—definitely a must-try if you go! I also can’t recommend the Yu Village Cold Noodles enough. They were so delicious, with a nutty, sesame flavor paired with crunchy cucumbers and fresh poached shrimp—it’s the perfect combination. Trust me!

Masti [hosted]
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I’m a huge fan of Indian food, but it’s definitely one cuisine I don’t eat enough of. Masti is your sign to eat more Indian food in 2026. This spot is phenomenal. From the gorgeous interior design to the friendly waitstaff to the delicious food and tasty drinks, you’re sure to have the best experience here. Located at Reston Town Center in Reston, VA, it’s the kind of restaurant you visit once and immediately start planning your next trip back. I highly recommend trying the vada pav, chicken sekuwa with the puffed rice, and butter chicken for bites, and the Masti Sarbat for a sip.

District Candle Lab & Fawne [hosted]
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Rounding out the year, I was able to create magic at District Candle Lab and Fawne, located at the Mosaic District in Merrifield, VA. It’s best to make a reservation at the candle bar because it fills up, especially on weekends! However, Fawne is walk-in only. You can also book private events for groups of 10 or more. This spot is perfect for a girls’ day, date night, or solo self-care activity. The candle tender walks you through each step to help create your perfect blend. I loved finding my favorite scents, which are now orchid, palo santo, and white tea. PSA: the candles take about 2 hours to set, so you can come back later to pick them up. You can also build your dream jewelry while you wait for your candle, which is what we did. I loved picking all my perfect charms for my bracelet, but you can also make a necklace or keychain!

What a year

So many amazing eats this year—it was tough to narrow down these choices! There were definitely some spots that could or should have made the list, but I tried to pick my top eats for each month. I hope you enjoyed reading this. Here’s to another year filled with tasty bites and sips!