I've always liked chili but did not become a big fan of it until moving to DC. I tried Tops on a whim several months ago and have come back multiple times (usually, every time they're at my office).
I ALWAYS buy the chili. As far as my lunch goes, if I'm going to Tops, this is non negotiable. I must have chili. As most of the other reviewers have indicated, the chili here is on the sweeter side but still has a slight hint of spiciness at the end of every bite. I'm used to chili being spicy, so I really like the change-up here, and to counterargue what one of the reviewers said, chili is meant to be made with beans, otherwise it would just be the bun-less version of sloppy joe's. So...if you don't like beans, why eat chili? Anyways, the chili is most definitely not runny. It is on the thicker side, and the proportions of meat and beans are great, perfectly complemented with cheese and onions if you so desire.
Now off the bat I will say I am not a sausage fan; I will avoid them when possible. However, I've made an exception to the sausages served at this truck. They are just incredible. So much so I've been extremely disappointed when trying sausages at other dining locations. I've tried all the sausages except the "So Good." Reading my fellow reviewer's post, I hope it's available the next time the truck is near my office because I would definitely love to knock that off of my list of things to try.
The fries are very good. To steal my fellow reviewer's description, "Thick cut, freshly made, perfectly seasoned, and touched with (what appears to be) a very light batter which adds to the crispiness." (H/T to James S.)
I'm giving the truck five stars not just for the quality of the food (this is one of the few trucks I keep finding myself coming back to over and over), but the great customer service offered by the guys that run this truck. I go often enough that they recognize me, but whether you are a first-timer or a regular customer, the guys always make sure to engage in polite small talk with you.
Finally, as an example of how great the customer service is, one time my coworkers and I made an order and were patiently waiting for our food, and it the wait time did not seem out of the ordinary (less than five minutes, if that). But this day the truck just had ridiculous line and I guess some people ended up waiting slightly longer than that. To make amends for making us wait too long (which we didn't, but they still wanted to apologize for the madness of the day,), they gave each of my coworkers and I a free side of chili.
Again, it must be said, these guys are among the quickest servers of all food trucks in the DC area, and they appear to hold themselves to a really high standard of serving their guests promptly and accurately. As a west coaster, I've got a laid-back vibe, so I will not lose my patience if forced to wait a long time as long as the retailer acknowledges and apologizes for the unusually long wait. But I also know that on the east coast things run at a more frantic pace and some people are not as understanding. Regardless, these guys get you your food as quickly as possible.
I've got an essay going here, so I'll end it now by saying this is a great truck that serves great food and offers stupendous customer service. A definite must-try. Cheers! read more