For years, I’ll admit I avoided this hole-in-the-wall shop for what it looked like on the outside. But like so many things, it’s what on the inside that counts. Since 1993, Julia’s has baked her fresh, homemade empanadas daily, serving a steady stream of customers who keep coming back for her spiced, filled pastry. What’s available changes as the day goes on, but if it's on the menu, try the Jamaican-style empanada with ground beef, potato, onions, curry, and spices, or the chorizo with black beans, white rice, onions, and spices. If you’re out clubbing in the neighborhood, do what D.C.’s barhoppers do, and stop here for a late-night snack. There aren’t seats inside, so grab your empanada to go or walk and eat. Other locations are in Dupont Circle (1221 Connecticut Ave. NW) and Brightwood (6235 Georgia Ave. NW).