Piccino. Dogpatchers rejoiced when this restaurant opened on the corner of Tennessee and 22nd Streets three years ago. For me, the perfect lunch is a Piccino pizza. The crust is thin and crispy, the toppings are uncomplicated and creative. There are several choices for pizza, always a sumptuous homemade soup and the salad selections are farmer's market fresh. Follow your main course with a Blue Bottle latte and a baked treat next door at Piccino's coffee bar.
Piccino, 801 22nd Street, 824-4224,
www.piccinocafe.comJust For You. This slow food pioneer has such a varied menu, you can even have breakfast for lunch. I like their po-boy sandwiches and the Tofu-n-Veggie Stir Fry because it's a lot of fresh vegetables and home cooking goodness. The tables are a little close together, but everyone is family at Just For You, so say "hi" and cozy up to your neighbor at the lunch counter.
Just For You, 732 22nd Street, 647-3033, www.justforyoucafe.com.