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The Wizards play the 76ers tonight at home in the Capital One Arena. Tip off is at 7 p.m. Watch it on NBC Sports Washington. Listen to it on the Wizards Mobile App or Federal News Radio 1500 AM.
It’s also a great time to have some food.
Since things really haven’t changed drastically from one night to the next because the Wizards are playing the 76ers for the second time in two days, let’s compare an iconic sandwich between the two places. In Philadelphia, there’s the iconic Philly Cheesesteak which is famous worldwide. In Washington, we have the half-smoke.
If you were in Philadelphia yesterday, you may know that Pat’s King of Steaks claims to be the original home of the cheesesteak sandwich. It’s located at the iconic Italian Market district. Right across the street is Geno’s Steaks, Pat’s rival. I ate a cheesesteak at both locations and they’re really good but I don’t think one is better than the other. Both places are also open 24 hours a day. I’m not sure what your factors are when determining what makes a cheesesteak great. Maybe it’s the quality of the hot meat and the “drip factor.” Or maybe you want to make sure that the sandwich doesn’t have bread that’s too dense since you’re having a cheesesteak, right?
The half-smoke isn’t as well known as the cheesesteak to those of you not from D.C. So, I’d describe it as a hybrid between a traditional hot dog and an Italian sausage sandwich. We often top off these sandwiches with chili, cheese, and onions. And no, it’s NOT a hot dog.
There are many places to get a half-smoke in town, but if you want the iconic experience, head over to Ben’s Chili Bowl on U Street Northwest. But Eater.com has a list of other restaurants in D.C. that have their own takes on the half-smoke, whether they are simple street food or a bit more upscale.
Anyway, I’m hungry from typing this so I’ll have a half-smoke. And go Wizards. Hopefully this game is better than yesterday’s.