Tamale Cart Albermarle/McDonald

On weekday mornings, you’ll find a tamale vendor parked just across from the entrance of the Foodtown in Kensington, right outside of the Church Avenue F/G subway entrance. Do yourself a favor and get some tamales—there are usually a few different varieties on rotation, but if you come early enough you can score an Oaxacan-style tamale, which is steamed in banana leaves and has a rich, spicy chicken filling. We like the mole and jalapeño cheese varieties, too. The champurrado and arroz con leche are perfect on a chilly morning.