Marco Polo Bar & Grill

This Georgetown sports bar that’s been open since 1950 could win an award for displaying the most Washington State University memorabilia in the city. And while we'd come here exclusively to snack on cornmeal-dusted pickles alongside a cold beer, their "broasted" fried chicken is the real star. These huge pieces of thigh, wing, and breast are pressure-fried, so the inside stays juicy while the salty skin crisps up like it’s been sunbathing in a layer of tanning lotion all day. Don't be surprised when even the bouncer is clutching a drumstick as they come to check your ID.

photo credit: Brooke Fitts