Rachel McCain – Spokin User @rachelmccain
Allergies: Peanut, Tree Nuts, Milk, and Egg. Also managing EOE.
Class: 2025
Major: Media, Journalism, and Film Production
Post Graduation Plans: I currently serve as the Director of Operations for the Howard University Film Organization. Post-grad I plan to be in LA working in Film and Television Development!
Busboys and Poets
I’ve had several successful meals at Busboys and Poets! The staff is knowledgeable and eager to help accommodate those with allergies. They have multiple locations within the DMV, but I’ve only been to this one and their Takoma Park location.
Il Canale
This is by far one of my favorite DC restaurants. The staff is so friendly and I always feel taken care of. The food is delicious and you can easily walk around Georgetown after a tasty meal here!
The Smith DC
I’m a veteran Smith goer, they have multiple locations across the country. Like each location, the DC branch always makes me feel safe and taken care of. They have a wonderful system for allergies that includes flagging your food (literally a little red flag) to ensure you’re receiving the dish meant for you. I’ll always recommend The Smith! I’ve brought so many Howard friends here.
The Sovereign
The waitress I spoke with was very helpful in explaining what would be safe for me on their menu. They understand cross contact and I was able to have a safe dining experience. This place is closest to Georgetown and GW’s campus.
Carmine’s Italian Restaurant
I attended a birthday dinner at Carmine’s and the staff was very helpful in finding a dish that would be safe for me. It’s located within walking distance of the National Mall and the Green and Yellow Line Metro.
Ben’s Chili Bowl
You can’t go wrong with Ben’s Chili Bowl! I asked for them to show me the hot dog buns’ ingredients and they happily obliged. Highly recommend to anyone who’s visiting. Ben’s is a short walk from Howard University’s campus.
Mi Vida
I’ve dined with friends at Mi Vida a couple times, and each time I’ve visited the staff has been helpful. This is a great spot just off of U Street! Walking distance from the Howard University campus.
&Pizza
&pizza is a great fast food option for me. If you have a severe dairy allergy, I would only recommend ordering in person to ensure that you can communicate cross contamination needs since this is a pizza place. Lots of great toppings and the staff is very friendly. This location is close to Howard University’s campus, but there are a couple spread throughout the DMV area.
Clyde’s of Georgetown
The staff at Clyde’s is knowledgeable and helped me find an option that was safe for me. Because it’s a popular place and it can get busy, I’d recommend calling in advance and sharing your allergens with the reception when making a reservation.
Call Your Mother Bagels (Georgia Ave)
As a New Yorker, I’m picky about my bagels! This place has some pretty tasty ones, and the plain bagels are egg and dairy-free!
