authentic place in the middle of bethesda just a block west of wi ave. not surprisingly, my airline got me to dc late, arriving at my wknd hotel after 10. still hungry even after the dca chili dog, i was directed totasteeby the hotel desk staff, as being the only definitely open establishment at that time on a thursday. i wasn't craving diner food & had had my hopes up for something ethnic & unique before my late arrival. however, i was very happy after sitting down at the front counter to observe a large menu, & food being distributed which was clearly above the expected.
i shouldn't fail to mention, before getting to the grub, what a treat it is to be served a perfect fountain soda. so many times you receive a cold glass of sickening syrup or nearly straight soda water, it's almost a surprise to taste a drink that's just right, & this takes at least a bit of extra effort on the staff's part to monitor the fountain.
roberto did a magnificent job of both serving me & preparing my meal. i opted for one of the 8oz. cheeseburgers & specifically requested it be dressed w/ only raw onion & pickles. instead of simply adding the bare minimum b/t the buns, i received 2 small dishes filled w/ one of each. the dill slices were of the cold, thick variety, & plenty of onion was available for customization. while the onion rings (i like onion) came out of the freezer, they were not over breaded nor over cooked, & were a fine side to the excellent burger. the cashier was a bit gruff & rushed for no good reason, but this was easily excused by the late-ish hour. very satisfying late dinner.