David Chang has come a long way since his tiny game-changing original in New York City’s East Village. This impressive DC outpost is bright and shiny with multiple levels, lots of glass and textbook-contemporary décor (think backless blonde wood stools). Executive Chef Tae Strain carries on Chang's signature street-style food that put him on the map, and that's exactly what you'll find here. Those buzzed-about buns (let's face it, that's what you came for) are the stuff that pilgrimages are made of: pillowy soft, stuffed with meat or shrimp and slathered with tangy sauces. Rice cakes are yet another favored dish, while braised fried chicken is oh-so-good. Located just off the main dining room, the takeout Milk Bar carries desserts like the famed crack pie. - MICHELIN guide inspectors