Dining In Dc - Food and Restaurant Blog

Ticket Giveaway to Soundbites: Food + Music + Charity

diningindc — Wed, 16 May 2012 23:41:17 +0000

DC Central Kitchen and the 9:30 Club will host the 3^rd Annual Sound Bites charity concert featuring food you crave and music that you love with proceeds benefiting DCCK, a national leader for combating hunger and creating opportunities for individuals in need. The event will be held at the 9:30 Club (815 V St., NW). Comment below to enter to Win Two (2) Tickets to Soundbites, this Sunday, May 20, 2012 (at 5 p.m.)

Samy K from 99.5 will be hosting their first Mixology Madness Competition with master mixologists Brendan Murphy (The Gibson), Owen Thompson (Oyamel), Arris Noble (Fujimar), and Derek Brown (The Passenger). The Mixologists will be judged by Svetlana Legetic (Brightest Young Things), Spike Mendelsohn (Good Stuff Eatery), Gina Chersevani (Master Mixologist), and Todd Thrasher (Master Mixologist).

Participating restaurants and eateries that will be serving their culinary creations at this year’s Sound Bites include: Borinquen, Black Salt, Bobby Vans Grill, Chipotle, Cork, Delia’s, Dolce Gelati, Gordy’s Pickle Jar, Harry’s Smokehouse, Indique, Jackie’s, Mandu, Matchbox, Mie N Yu, Pepe (food truck), P.J. Clarks, Policy, Rappahannock Oysters, Room 11, Shake Shack, Sixth Engine, and Taylor Gourmet (if they’re not too busy after POTUS’s visit!)

Music at this year’s event is curated by Eric Hilton of the Thievery Corporation, including Bone, Fur Feathers, The Archives, and Nappy Riddem, with a DJ Set by Eric Hilton. There will also be a cocktail competition involving three of DC’s hottest mixologists from Oyamel,The Passenger, Fujimar, and The Gibson. And of course, food from the area’s favorite food trucks including Pepe and Borinquen, as well other beloved restaurants.

Tickets are just $40! Be sure to join DCCK and the 9:30 Club May 20^th for music and food that will change lives.

Comment below to enter to win Two (2) Tickets to Soundbites, a benefit for D.C. Central Kitchen, this Sunday, May 20, 2012. The Winner will be selected at 5 p.m. on Friday, May 18, 2012.

Note:*You must be subscribed to Dining in DC to be eligible to win! Winning entries will be verified. Only subscribers will be contacted indicating that they won. Don’t miss your chance! Winner will be notified shortly after 5 p.m. Friday, May 18. Winners name will be at will call at the door day of the event for entry.

“Tiki” it up a notch at Dirty Martini

LHOVE — Wed, 16 May 2012 18:05:28 +0000

Where the rum's gone - DM Tiki Bar.

In the spirit of summer (and rum spirits), Dupont Circle’s, Dirty Martini (1223 Connecticut Ave., NW) known for its modern upscale, sophisticated style has quietly launched a new addition to its rooftop lounge. Unlike the Passenger and Tryst, who currently serve up island flair just once a week, Dirty Martini’s new Tiki Bar will be open ready to serve up a refreshing cocktail Monday through Friday from 5 p.m. – 10 p.m., plenty of opportunity to show off your coconuts. No promises though that you’ll get leid (the kind you get at a luau, what a dirty mind!)

With hand-carved ice (with a chainsaw!), 6 fresh squeezed juices, 9 syrups, a whopping 35 rum varieties, and an enticing menu with more than 14 hand-crafted cocktails, Dirty Martini is stepping up the tiki bar game in both variety and quality of beverages. With more than a dozen island-inspired cocktails, they are guaranteed to quench your thirst (just don’t drink all 14 at once!).

One of 14 featured island-inspired cocktails

JP Caceres, owner and founder of Let’s Imbibe, Inc., as well as mixologist for Dirty Martini, has been honing his Polynesian creations in his “laboratory,” where up to 30 creative cocktails will be devised before the end of summer. “We’ll be serving everything fresh, house-made, and hand-carved,” says Caceres. Look for Caceres and his highly trained mixologist team on the rooftop of Dirty Martini now through at least the end of October.

A Guest post by “Hove”

Dining in DC’s newest contributor, Lindsay Hovermale is a DC area local funding her dining and concert habits as a research associate for drug and alcohol studies, apprentice mixologist at Dirty Martini, and Ph. D student at the University of Maryland. She has a voracious appetite for quality and passion in food and in life. Lindsay enjoys all things bacon, bourbon, local music, running, and recovering from running injuries. She prefers her eggs poached.

Look for more posts from Lindsay to get information on the special event and music scenes in DC and the surrounding areas. Follow her on Twitter @theycallmeHOVE and her forthcoming blog, Hunger Hierarchy.

A Taste of the RAMMYs and South of the Border

LHOVE — Wed, 16 May 2012 17:23:57 +0000

JP Caceres's Pisco Sour honors the MOTAC logo

Although World Cocktail Week may be over, the spirit of great American cocktails lives on. The excitement for Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington’s (RAMW) 2012 RAMMYs began to build as this year’s nominees for Best Mixology Program met for a private cocktail tasting Monday night at Mike Isabella’s Graffiato. Each nominee crafted a unique cocktail for the event representative of their style and program. This year’s nominees included Duane Sylvestre (Bourbon Steak), Greg Engert (ChurchKey), Adam Bernbach (Estadio), Dan Searing (Room 11), and Todd Thrasher (EatGoodFood Group). Guests enjoyed a brief intimate gathering with four cocktails and a selection of charcuterie provided by Graffiato, including Isabella’s signature blistered sweet peppers. With only an hour or two to sample each cocktail, the hors d’oeuvres were welcomed by some of DC’s foodie finest to offset the ample amounts of alcohol.

Upon tasting, there was a distinct and unplanned theme in three of the four cocktail creations – grapefruit. The bright citrus notes provided a hint of summer on an otherwise drearyMonday night. Other highlights included the unexpected peppercorn syrup and absinthe in Engert’s “Farmhouse Punch,” aromatic saffron in Bernbach’s “Dia de Discanso,” a light-bodied Belgian Tripel and cayenne pepper in Searing’s “Chaos Theory,” and the bubbles and rye whiskey in Thrasher’s “42 and Cloudy.” Recipes for each mixologist’s creations are included below.

Each cocktail will be available to sample at their respective nominated restaurant from May 18 – June 20. In addition to enjoying award-nominated beverages, guests will also receive an entry to win two tickets to the RAMMY Awards Gala on June 24^thwith each purchase.

Sylvestre gives an autograph to a cocktail fan

Noticeably absent from the cocktail tasting (but for good cause) was Bourbon Steak’s Duane Sylvestre, who joined the Museum of the American Cocktail (MOTAC) for an education in South of the Border cocktails across town at the Four Seasons. JP Caceres of Let’s Imbibe, Inc. and Jamie MacBain, also of Bourbon Steak, joined Sylvestre for a historical and practical look at several classic cocktails, including mojitos, caipirinhas, and margaritas

The session was hosted by Philip Greene, co-founder of MOTAC and author of the upcoming To Have and Have Another – A Hemingway Cocktail Companion (November 2012, Penguin Books). Many may know that Hemingway enjoyed a cocktail or two in his day, but Green provides a more in-depth look at Hemingway’s life and the characters in his books by means of the cocktails that they enjoy. The book will detail the background on each drink and recipes for creating them at home.

After an initial introduction, Sylvestre took the floor and fashioned a pair of rum drinks, a classic mojito and a swizzled falernum cocktail. He detailed the differences in rums by region, ranging from English rum, which is aromatic and rich in nature, to Spanish rums, invoking hints of vanilla and caramel. As he mixed, Sylvestre continued by describing the different aging techniques that produce different varieties of rum from the unaged light to richer wood-aged dark rum. Attendees were encouraged to enjoy the clean, aromatic, and rich nature of the spirits by adding water to taste and to get “mojado.” Sylvestre closed with a cheeky, “Let’s get wet! You can quote me on that.”

Caceres prepares to create more traditional cocktails

Caceres further enlightened the crowd on the perhaps lesser known cachaça (pronounced ca-cha-za) and pisco. Cachaça, made from fermented cane juice, is primarily produced in Brazil, where 1.5 billion liters are consumed each year, according to Caceres. Using the juice of 1 lime, 1 oz. simple syrup, and 2 oz. cachaça, he created a traditional caipirinha, followed by a frothy pisco sour. The cocktail was complimented by the MOTAC logo, a single martini glass, with angostura bitters atop the beverage’s foam. Caceres revealed the simple tip that enhanced an already stunning presentation – he cut an image from a simple plastic container lid and added the colorful bitters liberally.

Closing the presentation was MacBain, who fostered the classic cocktail theme but finished with a twist. He explained the differences in tequilas ranging from blanco (or, plata, which is aged for a mere 2 months, through extra añejo, a new classification as of 2006 that is aged for more than three years.

MacBain gets "jigger" with it while creating La Paloma

Continuing with the inadvertent grapefruit theme, MacBain crafted a characteristic Paloma, featuring a housemade grapefruit soda. The only non-traditional cocktail of the evening came from MacBain’s “We’ve Got the Beet,” a play on a margarita that featured beet juice, Partido Reposado, agave, Averna, and lime. The “flavored margarita” was a surprising finish to an informative evening that left several guests exclaiming, “This was the best seminar yet!”

For more information on the Museum of the American Cocktail, including upcoming seminars in DC on July 11^th and August 9^th, please visit http://www.museumoftheamericancocktail.org.

Cocktail Recipes

Farmhouse Punch mixed by Greg Engert (ChurchKey)

.75 ounces vodka

.25 or less ounces of absinthe

.5 ounces lemon juice

1 ounce grapefruit juice

.5 ounce peppercorn syrup

Shake

Top with Rayon Vert

Ladle from a punch bowl with a 5 lb. block of ice

Dia de Descanso Mixed by Adam Bernbach (Estadio)

2 parts saffron & grapefruit syrup

1 part Beefeater 24 Gin

1 part lime juice

3 parts sparkling wine

Garnish with limes & mint

Ladle from a punch bowl with a 5 lb. block of ice

Chaos Theory Mixed by Dan Searing (Room 11)

.75 ounces Citra hop-infused Sauza Hornitos plata

.5 ounces grapefruit juice

.5 ounces simple syrup (1:1)

2 ounces Belgian Tripel

Shake first three ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled coupe, top with Tripel Karmeliet and garnish with a light sprinkle of cayenne pepper.

42 and Cloudy (Punch Bowl Cocktail) Mixed by Todd Thrasher

6 ounces Cruzan rum

6 ounces honey flavored vodka

6 ounces passion vodka

6 ounces brandy

15 ounces sauvignon blanc

10 ounces green tea

5 ounces water

28 ounces passion fruit juice

Juice of 2 lemons

1/3 cup of luxardo cherries

Champagne to taste

Ladle from a punch bowl with a 5 lb. block of ice

Monthly Market Fresh Vegan Brunch This Sunday

diningindc — Tue, 15 May 2012 13:49:56 +0000

Photo courtesy of Todd Gray's Muse. Credit: Emily Clack

Although the nation’s capital has a perma-crush on hamburgers and pork, area restaurants have at the same time been evolving into becoming more vegetarian and vegan-friendly. If you’re looking for a deliciously healthy spot to brunch, then you should not miss the upcoming Market Fresh Vegan Brunch at Todd Gray’s Muse at the Corcoran Art Gallery (500 17th Street, NW), this Sunday, May 20, 2012. Once a month, local Chef Todd Gray offers an exclusively vegan brunch menu expertly curated and designed for the Corcoran. Taking inspiration from the Corcoran Collection and the Gallery’s special exhibitions, and distinguished by seasonal, local ingredients—many sourced from the nearby FreshFarm Market, by the White House—Muse is a unique culinary experience.

This Sunday, May 20th, try their special Vegan Brunch for just $25 for adults, per person. Children 12 and under are $12. Brunch libations will be also be available for $8. 11:00 am – 2:00 pm; Reservations are recommended. Please e-mail your request to reservations@toddgraysmuse.com.

Sip Your Way to The RAMMYS with RAMW’s Month-long Cocktail Promotion

diningindc — Tue, 15 May 2012 13:34:43 +0000

Adam Bernbach, mixologist at Estadio; Photo by L. Shapiro

One of DC’s hottest events of the year, The RAMMY Awards, the Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington’s (RAMW) annual restaurant industry awards gala, is rapidly approaching, and DC metro-area residents once again have a chance to score a pair of coveted tickets to the highly-anticipated gala by simply sipping a cocktail (twist your arm, right?!). From May 18 to June 18, “Beverage/Mixology Program of the Year” RAMMY nominees will host a month-long cocktail promotion where consumers can patronize any of the five nominated restaurants and order their signature RAMMY cocktail for a chance to win two tickets to the hottest industry event of the year, the annual gala on June 24.

Last night, I was at Graffiato who hosted a media preview where I was invited to sip and mingle with the best of the best mixologists to sample their award-winning concoctions. Now through this RAMW promotion, you can too!

The five nominees for “Beverage/Mixology Program of the Year” are Bourbon Steak, ChurchKey, EatGoodFood Group, Estadio, and Room 11. The nominees will be serving up the following creative cocktails at their restaurants:

Duane Sylvestre, the mixologist extraordinaire at Bourbon Steak has created The Huntress, a unique cocktail made with Red Stag Bourbon, cold black tea, housemade sarsaparilla syrup and fresh lemon. This RAMMY cocktail is served in an absinthe-rinsed glass and garnished with a lemon twist. Guests can enjoy The Huntress at Bourbon Steak located in the Four Seasons Georgetown hotel located at 2800 Pennsylvania Ave., NW.
Churchkey's Farmhouse Punch. Photo by L. Shapiro

ChurchKey’s award-winning beer master Greg Engert is combining brews and booze in his innovative Farmhouse Punch. He tops a mixture of Russian Standard Vodka, Pernod Ricard Absinthe, lemon juice, grapefruit juice and peppercorn syrup with Rayon Vert, a Belgian-style Pale Ale from Green Flash Brewing Co. To my surprise, while I am generally not a fan of Absinthe, I really enjoyed this cocktail. The sweet yet grapefruit flavor balances the spicy peppercorn syrup. Customers can try the Farmhouse Punch at ChurchKey located at 1337 14^th St., NW.
Adam Bernbach, mixologist at Estadio is mixing up the Día de Descanso (meaning ‘Day of Rest’ in Spanish). The refreshing cocktailis made with Beefeater 24 Gin, housemade saffron and grapefruit syrup, fresh lime juice and sparkling wine, garnished with lime and mint. This was definitely a favorite, as it goes down so smooth. It’s light, refreshing, and truly a beverage that one would sip while enjoying a “day of rest”. Patrons can sip the Día de Descanso at Estadio located at 1520 14^th St., NW.
Todd Thrasher of EatGoodFood Group has concocted a creative punch bowl cocktail, the 42 and Cloudy. Thrasher said that the inspiration of his drink came from New Zealand. The complex 12-ingredient drink is made with Cruzan White Rum, honey vodka, passion vodka, Sazerac rye, Brandy, New Zealand sauvignon blanc, sencha green tea, water, passion fruit juice, fresh lemon juice, Luxardo cherries and Champagne to taste. The alcohols are mixed using their frozen drink maker, even though the drink is not served frozen. It helps keep all of the ingredients and flavors well combined. Another favorite of mine, I truly enjoyed Todd’s punch. Diners can try the 42 and Cloudy at Virtue Feed & Grain located at 106 S. Union St. in Old Town, Alexandria, VA.
DC’s own punch master, Dan Searing of Room 11, is serving up his citrusy Conquistador Punch. The summertime-perfect punch is a mix of Sauza Hornitos Tequila, Gonzalez Byass Solera 1847 Oloroso Dulce, fresh lime and clementine juices, housemade clementine zest syrup and fresh clementines served over a large ice block. Guests can taste the Conquistador Punch at Room 11 located at 3234 11^th St., NW.

Diners who purchase a RAMMY cocktail at any of the five restaurants until June 18 will be eligible to win two tickets to the RAMMY gala on June 24. Consumers will fill out an information card for each RAMMY drink purchase and a winner will be chosen at random on June 18 at the end of the promotion. Good Luck!

On March 26th, hundreds of the Washington, DC metropolitan area’s top restaurateurs, chefs and key restaurant industry players gathered at the Ritz-Carlton Downtown in Washington, DC as the Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington (RAMW) announced the nominees for its annual RAMMY Awards. The 2012 RAMMY Award winners will be named at the 30th annual RAMMY Gala on Sunday, June 24, 2012 at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel. This year’s RAMMY Gala theme is “Hats Off to Restaurants!” honoring the extraordinary accomplishments of the Washington, DC regional restaurant scene over the past year.

Can’t wait! See you there!

Foodie Itinerary: Delicious To-Do Events May 15-31

diningindc — Mon, 14 May 2012 16:52:46 +0000

Memorial Day Weekend Pool Party!

Dining in DC’s Foodie Itinerary or To-Do List: Looking for some food-related events for this week or upcoming weeks? Summer is almost here and May is chock full o’ fun and delicious things to do and … eat! Below is a compilation of various, food-related events, such as tastings, festivals, and workshops or classes throughout the Washington, DC Metropolitan area for the weekend or upcoming weeks. Also, check out the Foodie Event Calendar, the newest Dining in DC feature (on the right side bar) for local delicious events to add to your foodie calendar.

Tuesday, May 15:

Anchor Steam Beer Dinner (Meet the Maker) at the Light Horse restaurant (715 King Street) in Old Town, Alexandria: Enjoy 5 delicious courses prepared by the talented executive chef, Adam Stein and wash it down with 5 perfectly paired Anchor Steam beers. Menu includes: Anchor Summer Beer with Softshell Crab, Local Vegetable Slaw and Spicy Remoulade; Liberty Ale with House Sausage Arancini; Anchor Steam Beer with Pork & Clam Hot Pot; Brekle’s Brown Ale and Smoked Beef Short Ribs & Fingerling Potato Salad; Old Foghorn Barleywine Style Ale and Fresh Fruit Summer Pudding and Blackberry Sorbet. Just $50 per person! Their beer dinners usually sell out, so if you like these beers, get on the train early. E-mail Dave P. at lighthorseprivatedining@gmail.com to reserve your seats, now! Ride the free trolley from the King Street metro (yellow line) to get there with ease. 7 p.m.

Taco Tuesday: Every Tuesday, in the Taqueria & Tequileria at El Centro D.F. (1819 14th St., NW), where Richard Sandoval offers authentic Mexican comfort food and fine Tequilas in three vibrant spaces, including an open rooftop! Enjoy Taco Tuesday, but these are not your ordinary flavors, such as Beef Heart & Stomach, Lamb Birria, Guajillo Cauliflower, Blood Sausage and more… Taste the wild, weird, and always wonderful taco creations for only $2 each All Night Long! Try new exotic tacos every Tuesday at El Centro D.F. in Logan Circle. Make sure you tell em’ Dining in DC sent ya!

Saturday, May 19:

Saturday to Brunch at Cedar. Located in the heart of Penn Quarter, Cedar (822 E St., NW) is a contemporary, rustic American restaurant specializing in wild game where Executive Chef Aaron McCloud artfully prepares well-executed dishes that will blow you away. After just 4 months at Cedar, McCloud is creating inventive dishes that leave you wondering why you never gave wild boar or bison a chance. Their Brunch menu includes tempting choices such as the Braised Pork Belly BLT with fried egg, smoked tomato, basil aioli, Crab Cake Benedict on brioche with bearnaise, Smoked Salmon Benedict with potato cakes, poached eggs, caper hollandaise, and more! Call (202) 637-0012 for reservations! Checkout my dining review here.

2ND ANNUAL CRAFT BEER TASTING & FESTIVAL: Clyde’s of Columbia: (10221 Wincopin Circle, Columbia, MD 21044) will host their 2nd Annual Craft Beer fest outdoors by the Lake, Saturday, May 19. 3-8 p.m. Sample more than 50 brews, including many limited-release or hard-to-find varieties. Live music all day from Subtle Hustle, The Bumpin Uglies, and 8 Ohms Band. $2.50 per ticket or $30 for 15 tickets; 4 oz tasting cup=1 ticket.

8th Annual Testicle Festival: The Montana State Society will sponsor the Eighth Annual Testicle Festival of Washington, D.C. – “Legends of the Ball”, held from 6-10 PM on Saturday May 19 at the Arlington American Legion (3445 N. Washington Blvd.). They invite you to try this unique Montana tradition, and enjoy live music, Rocky Mountain Oysters, beer and Crown Royal. Straight from the original Rocky Mountain Testy Fest at Rock Creek Lodge outside of Missoula, this year’s celebrity chef Frank Mcgraw will be serving up tasty testes with an authentic zest. Get there early, the first 200 guests will also get an amazing T-Shirt to forever memorialize the event. Tickets cost $25 online or $30 at the door. 6 – 10 pm

Sunday, May 20:

Photo courtesy of Todd Gray's Muse. Credit: Emily Clack

Market Fresh Vegan Brunch at Todd Gray’s Muse at the Corcoran Art Gallery: Local Chef Todd Gray’s expertly curated menu has been designed exclusively for the Corcoran. Taking inspiration from the Corcoran Collection and the Gallery’s special exhibitions, and distinguished by seasonal, local ingredients—many sourced from the nearby FreshFarm Market, by the White House—Muse is a unique culinary experience. On Sunday, May 20th, enjoy their special Vegan Brunch. Adults $25, children 12 and under $12. Brunch libations will be also be available for $8. 11:00 am – 2:00 pm; Reservations are recommended. Please e-mail your request to reservations@toddgraysmuse.com.

Gospel Sunday Brunch at The Ha milton (600 14^th Street, NW), a landmark building that was originally constructed in 1929 and operated as the flagship store for Garfinckel’s department store until 1990, is now offering a Southern-inspired buffet guaranteed to lift one’s spirits, while enjoying a live gospel show to feed the soul. Available every Sunday, priced all inclusively at $25 per person, two ticketed shows are offered, with doors opening at 10 AM for the first one-hour performance which begins at 10:30 AM. The second seating is from 12:30- 2 PM, which also includes an hour-long gospel performance from 1 -2PM. This Sunday, Howard Gospel Choir will perform at The Hamilton Live for Gospel Brunch.

Guests begin their brunch with a complimentary Mimosa or Bloody Mary, plus coffee, tea and juice are also included, as are tempting pastries created by The Hamilton’s Pastry Chef Lauren Petri. The brunch buffet features the following items every Sunday: Hand-Carved Smoked Beef Brisket and Glazed Ham, Fried Chicken, Chicken & Andouille Gumbo with Dirty Rice, Shrimp & Grits, Macaroni & Cheese, Buttermilk Biscuits, Sausage Gravy, Molasses Collards, BBQ Pork & Sweet Potato Hash, House-Made Breakfast Pastries and Sweets, Waffle Station, Omelette Station,Home Fries, Scrambled Eggs, Bacon, Breakfast Sausage, Smoked Salmon, Fruit Salad and Green Salad.

25th Annual Taste of Arlington: will transform Ballston into a lively street festival, complete with local entertainment, children’s activities, and FOOD from OVER 40 RESTAURANTS! Sunday, May 20th from Noon-5 p.m. While there is no admission fee, tickets are needed to sample the food and beverages at the event. Be sure to take advantage of the online pre-sale ticket promotion. Ticket price is $20, February 15 through March 15. After March 15, online ticket price will be $25. Day of event ticket price is $30. Click here to purchase tickets. This year, three community non-profit organizations will receive a donation from the proceeds of the event - Arlington Community Foundation, the Virginia Hospital Center, and Phoenix Houses of the Mid-Atlantic.

A Gastronomic Adventure at DC’s Premiere Spanish Restaurant: Taberna del Alabardero. To celebrate 23 years in the Capital, DC’s famed Spanish spot, Taberna del Alabardero (1776 I St., NW) is offering an exclusive five-course gastronomic tasting with wine pairings presented by executive chef Javier Romero and sommelier Gustavo Iniesta. Your evening will begin with cocktails served in Taberna’s sumptuous surroundings before you head to the private La Granja room where you’ll observe the kitchen at work and gaze at the 300-plus varietal wine cellar. Iniesta will be sure to provide insight on each wine pairing, and both he and chef Romero will gladly answer all of your questions and allow you to channel your inner gastronome. $145 for five courses with paired wine and cocktail reception; tax and gratuity included. Begins at 6:30 p.m. Complimentary parking at the garage located next door to the restaurant’s entrance on 18th Street. To Reserve: Please e-mail nicoler@alabardero.com or taberna.dc@alabardero.com or call 202- 429-2200 and mention that you saw it on Dining in DC!

Monday, May 21:

The American Lamb Board presents: The 2nd Annual American Lamb Jam. Where else can you go with hundreds of people around and shout, “Hey! Nice rack!” and get away with it? Join me on Monday, May 21, 2012 from 6-9 p.m. when twenty of DC’s most talented chefs will ewe-night for the 2nd Annual American Lamb Jam produced by

This ultimate taste-off held at the Eastern Market in will feature top chefs and their creative preparations of lusty lamb dishes accompanied by several wineries, breweries and more. Enjoy delicious samples of dishes featuring American Lamb, demos, and more!

Media judging, including yours truly as a judge. Guests vote and determine the People’s Choice winner. People’s Choice Award for 2011 went to Executive Chef John Critchley from Urbana Restaurant in Dupont Circle. Chefs Nick Stefanelli of Bibiana, Dennis Marron from Poste, Ed Witt from 701, John Critchley from Urbana, Adam Sobel from Bourbon Steak, Peter Smith from PS7?s, Rodney Scruggs from Occidental Grill, Carl Dooley from Westend Bistro by Eric Ripert, Franck Loquet from iCi Urban Bistro, Brian McPherson from Jackson 20 and the Grille at Morrison House, Hamilton Johnson from Vidalia, Zach Dunphy from Againn, Omar Rodriquez from Oyamel, Dimitri Moshovitis from Cava … and more!

Tickets are just $50 per person. Use this Promo code: DCJAM25 and Buy 1 ticket get 2^nd ticket half off! Order your Tickets online. See EWE there!

Friday, May 25:

Fleming’s Steakhouse & Wine Bar Annual Memorial Day wine dinner: Fleming’s Steakhouse & Wine Bar (1960 Chain Bridge Road, McLean, VA) is kicking off Memorial Day Weekend with a celebration of food and wine, including a four-course wine dinner menu from Chef Jackie Trujillo. At this annual event the wines of Fauquier County’s Three Fox Vineyards will be showcased. Friday, May 25, 6:30 pm. Cost is $85 per guest includes wine (tax & gratuity not included). For reservations: 703.442.8384

Saturday, May 26:

Photo by Michael Palmer Photography

Cooking with Enzo! Join Chef EnzoFargione at Elisir Restaurant (427 11th St., NW), recently nominated for Best New Restaurant of the Year, for a Cooking Class showcasing Pasta and Pasta Sauces on Saturday, May 26th, from 10am-2pm. Learn how to make and sample dishes such as Risotto Asparagus Saffron and Reggiano, Cavatelli and Shellfish Ragu, with Roasted shrimp, clams, bay scallops, green olives, mushrooms and cherry tomatoes and Fettuccine Tomato and Basil. Learn how to make a delicious tomato sauce in just 15 minutes and more! Cost is $129 per person and includes lunch, wine, and beverages. To make a reservation please call (202) 546-0088.

Sunday, May 27:

Adult Swim Pool Party Series Official Grand Opening Memorial Day Weekend:
Adult Swim is a weekly summer pool party held every Sunday at the Capitol Skyline Hotel (10 I Street, SW, DC), hosted by Liquid Lifestyle. These Vegas-style pool parties feature the best local DJs, celebrity appearances, fashion shows, live musicians, costumed dancers and surprise entertainment.

The series Grand Opener on Memorial Day weekend, Sunday, May 27th, is open to the public and will kick-off DC’s most anticipated pool party series. And if a massive pool, dance music and bottle popping isn’t enough, the party also features an all-day barbecue with burgers and hot dogs, blow-up pool toys and 6 bars throughout the venue. The party runs from 12-6pm, with free admission until 1pm with a text RSVP. To RSVP, patrons must text their full names to 202-RESERVE, and will in-turn receive a confirmation text to show at the door. After 1PM or without a text RSVP, cover charge is $20 at the door. Bottles service is available by reservation only and tables usually sell out about a week in advance. For additional information, upcoming special events and pool party photos, visit www.DCPOOLPARTY.com.

Ongoing Events:

Test Kitchen: Hanoi-Havana at ZENGO: How many times have you wished that you could be in two places at once? Well now thanks to Richard Sandoval’s ZENGO (781 7th St., NW), you can! From now until June 30th, diners can enjoy Test Kitchen: Hanoi-Havana, a special menu that was created to blend two incredibly diverse countries (and cultures) Vietnam and Cuba – allowing diners to embark on a journey of taste to enjoy the flavors of two places at once. Every few months, the Chefs at ZENGO research and develop new recipes featuring the cuisine and spirits of one Latin and one Asian country; the result is a menu of specialty small plates and cocktails that showcase flavors and techniques from each region. Review Here: http://ow.ly/aOf19

Adam

Sip Your Way to The RAMMYS with RAMW’s Month-long Cocktail Promotion: From May 18 to June 18, “Beverage/Mixology Program of the Year” RAMMY nominees will host a month-long cocktail promotion where consumers can come into nominated restaurants and order their signature RAMMY cocktail for a chance to win two tickets to the annual gala on June 24. The five nominees for “Beverage/Mixology Program of the Year” are Bourbon Steak, ChurchKey, EatGoodFood Group, Estadio and Room 11. The nominees will be serving up the following creative cocktails at their restaurants. Diners who purchase a RAMMY cocktail at any of the five restaurants until June 18 will be eligible to win two tickets to the RAMMY gala on June 24. Consumers will fill out an information card for each RAMMY drink purchase and a winner will be chosen at random on June 18 at the end of the promotion. Good Luck! Hope to see you there!

Upcoming Events: Save the Date!

June 5: 2nd Tuesdays: Cork Market Whole Animal Grill-Out series, which’ll be held in the dining room above the shop on the second Tuesday of every month, and deliciously prepare everything from goat, to lamb, to king salmon. Chef Rob Weland will serve each whole roasted animal family-style with an array of sides, including mac ‘n’ cheese, baked local apples, and house-made sauerkraut. Cork’s Whole Animal Grill-Out roasts will range from $50-$75 per person, with an additional $25 per person for optional wine pairings. Guests can reserve a space at the April 10 Pig Roast and all future Grill-Outs by emailing Roasts@CorkDC.com. 1805 14th St. NW, (202) 265-2674

DC Wine Country: It is Closer than You Think

diningindc — Mon, 14 May 2012 15:01:07 +0000

Paradise springs winery

In recent years, Virginia has grown to be one of the top five producing wine regions in the country, and new vineyards are always popping up. Trailing behind California, Washington, Oregon, and New York, Virginia has started to gain a following and recognition for producing quality wines. The most common wines produced are Viognier (“Vee-yon-nyay”) and Cabernet Franc. Petite Manseng, Chamborcin and Norton are also popular grapes that are making quite a presence in recent years.

In less than hour, DC area residents can visit the up and coming Virginia Wine Region. It’s a perfect day trip for this time of year. Pack a picnic with light snacks, grab some friends, and take the scenic route to rolling hills that is Virginia wine country. There are two equidistant routes that daytripers can choose: Fauquier County via interstate 66 or into Loudoun County. The Fauquier region is strewed with fantastic wineries, but here are a few must-see spots:

First Stop: Paradise Springs Winery

Fairfax County’s only winery, Paradise Springs, is situated in historic Clifton, surrounded by elaborate mansions and a quintessential community. When you first arrive, you’ll see the original log cabin that dates back to the early 1800’s. The large red barn was an original from downtown Fairfax that was reconstructed on site and behind that is the brand-spankin’ new tasting room! Opened just last year, the tasting room is a spacious wooden barn with the tasting bar on the right hand side, wine barrel tables in the middle, and a gorgeous barrel room on the left behind a wall of glass. The barrel room is available to reserve for private tastings. Walk through to the back and there’s a large, covered patio complete with tables, couches, and a wood-burning fireplace. No need to worry if it’s cold and/or rainy!

The only grapes grown on site are Cabernet Franc but they produce multiple whites, reds, a Rosé and a sparkling. Tastings are $7 per person and you can taste all nine wines, quite the deal. The white wines are off-dry to dry, with crisp finishes and citrusy notes. My personal favorite is the Sommet Blanc. A blend of Vidal Blanc, Traminette and Chardonnay, this wine is off-dry with a smooth, clean finish. They also showcase a 100% Petite Manseng, Chardonnay, and Viognier.

The reds are not to be missed though. Loving the Old World style reds they produce, my favorite is the Meritage (Bordeaux-style blend) of Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Verdot and Malbec. Earthy, full-bodied and prominent red fruit, the Meritage will age well for years to come. Other notable reds are the Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon and of course their estate-grown Cabernet Franc.

Picnic tables are scattered throughout the property, welcoming visitors to bring a picnic lunch and relax. If your kids are four-legged, no worries! Dogs are welcome as long as they are leashed; however, they are not permitted inside buildings. So bring Fido along for the ride! It’s easy to see this is a favorite for me and the atmosphere is just fun! Live music on Friday nights and Saturdays and also they are open much later than other wineries in the area. Open until 9 p.m. on Fridays for their “Friday Evenings in Paradise” and 7 p.m. the other days, this makes for a great Friday evening adventure as well!

Second Stop: Pearmund Cellars

Old Vine Chardonnay vines at Pearmund

Approximately 25 miles further on 66, you’ll reach Pearmund Cellars located in Broad Run, VA. Enter the property while winding through the old vine Chardonnay grapes, leading up to the tasting room. There’s a large wrap around wooden bar where all the tastings are held. Tasting fees are just $10 per person and include a tasting of six white wines and ten reds! They also have a patio with scattered tables overlooking the vines. They’ve recently upgraded their patio to include a fire pit and wooden arbors, perfect scenery for a picnic.

There are six white wines to taste including their estate-grown Old Vine Chardonnay. This Chardonnay has hints of butter from the oak but has gone through 100% malolactic fermentation which means the tart-malic acid has converted to a soft-lactic acid. This creates a fuller mouthfeel, very common in Chardonnays.

Ten red wines are quite the lineup, including a Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petite Verdot and Ameritage. The red that stands out to me is their Cabernet Franc. Bright red fruits with a floral nose, this wine finishes with a hint of pepper and will pair great with an herbaceous meat dish. Pearmund has been always been on my list of go-to wineries in the Fauquier region, great wines, great experience and gorgeous views.

Philip Carter Winery

Third Stop: Philip Carter Winery

Another 20 miles past Pearmund is Philip Carter Winery located in Hume, VA. The Carter family has been growing grapes since 1759 when Charles Carter started in King George County. Still to this day, the Carter name is steadily producing award winning grapes. The tasting room is welcoming with two tasting bars and plenty of seating inside and out. The patio overlooks the vines, perfect for enjoying a bottle and a picnic.

The tasting list includes three whites, one rosé, three reds and two Late Harvests. The 2010 award-winning Chardonnay is not one to miss. With hints of pear and apple, this big white has had 100% malolactic fermentation leaving a big mouthfeel and creamy finish. It was a recent winner in the Indy International and San Francisco Chronicle Competitions.

Philip Carter patio in March before bud break.

Philip Carter also produces an award-winning red, the Cabernet Franc. Winning the Bronze medal in the San Francisco Chronicle Competition, this wine is another great example of Virginia’s popular grape. Bright fruit with a peppery finish, the Cabernet Franc can stand up to any meat dish or strong cheese.

The Winery offers great, informative vineyard tours and I was able to participate in a barrel tasting last year where we got to taste wines straight from the barrel to see how well they are developing. Philip Carter himself was our guide and I must say, it is still one of my favorite winery visits to date.

That’s quite a lineup of award-winning wines, picturesque views, and a perfect weekend afternoon! There are many more fantastic wineries in the region as well. So get in the car and go!

Guest post by new Dining in DC contributor, Jessica Milby.

Jessica has completed the world reknown wine certification, Wine & Spirit Education Trust out of London and is the editor/author of One Classic Wino, a blog about her adventures as a “wino”. Check out Jess’s blog daily for wine pairings, recommendations for the season, and fun recaps of all of her (many) wine adventures!

In addition, she founded Young Winos of DC in August 2010, a group of 20-somethings that convene monthly to share good times and learn about wine.

Foodie Itinerary: Delicious To-Do Events May 9-21

diningindc — Wed, 09 May 2012 21:48:55 +0000

Thursday, May 10:

Cuisine Des Artistes: Where chefs and artists create culinary masterpieces: Cuisine Des Artistes is an exciting and popular event that pairs well-known DC area chefs with artists who collaborate to create culinary masterpieces for your dining delight. The evening features appetizers; a main course made up of samplings of over a dozen chef and artist creations, desserts with artistic flair, coffee, tea, beer, and wine. Laced throughout the evening, there will be poetry, music, and performance artists providing eclectic entertainment for your enjoyment. The Cuisine des Artistes is a phenomenon and always fun event. This is your opportunity to get gussied up, join the fun, and hobnob with artists, chefs, and art lovers! $100; 6:30-10 p.m. Purchase Tickets

Saturday, May 12:

Avoid the Mother’s Day Brunch madness and take her early on Saturday to Brunch at Cedar. Located in the heart of Penn Quarter, Cedar (822 E St., NW) is a contemporary, rustic American restaurant specializing in wild game where Executive Chef Aaron McCloud artfully prepares well-executed dishes that will blow you away. After just 4 months at Cedar, McCloud is creating inventive dishes that leave you wondering why you never gave wild boar or bison a chance. Their Brunch menu includes tempting choices such as the Braised Pork Belly BLT with fried egg, smoked tomato, basil aioli, Crab Cake Benedict on brioche with bearnaise, Smoked Salmon Benedict with potato cakes, poached eggs, caper hollandaise, and more! Call (202) 637-0012 for reservations! Checkout my dining review here.

Sunday, May 13:

Mother’s Day Brunch at Equinox: Treat your Mom to Brunch at one of DC’s best restaurants. From 12-3 p.m., Equinox will offer a special 3-course Brunch Menu for $45 per person or $30 for kids under 12. Enjoy choices such as Brioche French Toast with Strawberry Yuzu Jam, Spiced Pecan Streusel, and Pennsylvania Maple Syrup or opt for the Equinox Eggs Benedict with smokey Shaved Serrrano Ham, Tomato Marmalade, topped with creamy traditional Hollandaise Sauce. 818 Connecticut Ave., NW; 202.331.8118

Sunday, May 20:

Photo courtesy of Todd Gray's Muse. Credit: Emily Clack

Monday, May 21:

Media judging, including yours truly as a judge, will include awards for Best of Show, 1st Place Awards for Shoulder, Leg of Lamb, Shank and Loin tastes. Guests vote and determine the People’s Choice winner. People’s Choice Award for 2011 went to Executive Chef John Critchley from Urbana Restaurant in Dupont Circle.

Chefs Nick Stefanelli of Bibiana, Dennis Marron from Poste, Ed Witt from 701, John Critchley from Urbana, Adam Sobel from Bourbon Steak, Peter Smith from PS7?s, Rodney Scruggs from Occidental Grill, Carl Dooley from Westend Bistro by Eric Ripert, Franck Loquet from iCi Urban Bistro, Brian McPherson from Jackson 20 and the Grille at Morrison House, Hamilton Johnson from Vidalia, Zach Dunphy from Againn, Omar Rodriquez from Oyamel, Dimitri Moshovitis from Cava … and more!

Tickets are just $50 per person. Use this Promo code: DCJAM25 and Buy 1 ticket get 2^nd ticket half off! Order your Tickets online. See EWE there!

Ongoing Events:

Upcoming Events: Save the Date!

May 17: Summer Patio Pig Roast: Clarendon’s Restaurant 3 (2950 Clarendon Blvd.) Kicks Off Summer Patio Pig Roast Series with a Whole Smoked Pig Roast & Southern Foodways Alliance Fundraiser from 4-8 p.m. On the third Thursday of every month through September 20th, 3 will roast a whole smoked Tamworth or Berkshire pig and serve up a menu of homemade sides and drink specials on its expansive, lively outdoor terrace. The monthly roasts will feature several specials including $5 fresh-off-the-pig pulled pork sandwiches, $3 beer drafts and Porkslap, $5 Bacon Bloody Marys, $5 featured wines and a variety of sides including handcut fries and housemade slaw to accompany the juicy pork.

Let’s Take it Outside: Dining Outdoors

diningindc — Tue, 08 May 2012 01:52:24 +0000

McCloone's Pier House patio at sunset. Photo by Dottie Cooper.

The nation’s capital has really lucked out with a temperate winter, and a rather cool spring, but as the thermometer rises from warm to warmer, some metro area restaurants scream summer! This Fabulous al Fresco Dining roundup is designed to serve as a source of information for DC area diners looking for Washington, DC area restaurants with outdoor or patio seating. For ease, the guide is divided by state (D.C., MD, VA) and locations are listed alphabetically.

If your favorite spot isn’t listed, feel free to comment below.

Washington, DC

701 Restaurant – In Penn Quarter, 701 has a dozen or more tables on their outdoor patio inviting patrons to linger over lunch or dinner prepared by the talented executive chef Ed Witt. Enjoy sweeping views of the Navy Memorial Fountain with a tranquil view in the heart of downtown DC. Outdoor tables may be reserved. 701 Pennsylvania Ave., NW; 202.393.0701

Acadiana – Part of the Passion Food Hospitality Group restaurants, Acadiana specializes in Cajun, Creole, and Southern flavors. The dishes represent various cooking techniques from the colorful ethnic areas spanning southern Louisiana, serving up the rich and complex flavors – the roux, the rémoulades, the bisques, and the étouffées for which the region is known and savored. Dappled sunlight breaks through the shade on the quiet K Street side of this contemporary Louisiana fish house, as Cajun music plays softly in the background and a cheerful clinking announces the arrival of buckets of beer at your table. Whether at lunchtime or for the Friday afternoon seafood boils [not available inside!] any one of the tables gracing Acadiana’s northern sidewalk, accommodating 60, offers the most relaxing seat in the house. 901 New York Avenue, NW; 202.408.8848

Ardeo + Bardeo – Ardeo+Bardeo is located in the historic neighborhood of Cleveland Park. This neighborhood gem, offers an intimate roof terrace. While it’s good for the overall sensation of eating outdoors; however, there is no “view” but enjoy being outdoors, none the less. Their Outdoor tables may be reserved. 3311 Connecticut Ave.,NW; 202. 244.6750 Link to Dining Review:

Aria Trattoria Fresca – One of Downtown D.C.’s largest outdoor patio bar and restaurants conveniently located at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center, just steps away from the Federal Triangle Metro station. This spacious setting feels like a relaxed neighborhood hangout. Enjoy happy hour with nightly drink specials, full-service menu, and live entertainment. Aria Fresca is open Monday through Friday beginning at 4 p.m. *Their pizza is excellent! 1300 Pennsylvania Ave., NW; 202.312.1250

Art and Soul – Rrecently named one of the Best New Restaurants in DC by the Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington, this celebrated two-time James Beard Award winning Chef Art Smith as chef/owner serves up southern inspired regional cuisine while showcasing fresh, local, seasonal ingredients. Executive Chef, Wes Morton works closely with Chef Art and with local purveyors, farmers and vendors to bring guests the finest and freshest foods available. The chefs’ mission is to provide patrons with “Food for the Soul” – food made with love and special attention with southern-style hospitality. Enjoy the large open outdoor dining including Crabs and Beer on Wednesday nights. My favorite dishes are the Chesapeak Bay Fry which is a plate of fried oysters, clams, calamari, shrimp, okra, with a duo of sauces; the PO’ OYSTER, which is not a sandwich, like most po boys, it’s a plate of fried oysters drizzled with a spicy remoulade on top of romaine. The cesar salad is also very good – I even ate the anchovy. The seasonal smoked rockfish with capers is delish. Their seasoned french fries are some of the best in the biz. Kid friendly! See Review here. 415 New Jersey Ave., NW; 202.393.7777

Asia Nine Bar and Lounge – Located in the Penn Quarter Neighborhood with a view of downtown, Asia Nine’s design draws inspiration from different Asian cultures. Jewel tones and rich woods envelop guests with a warm and exotic atmosphere. Chef Rod (Boonrod Yotmanee) incorporates elements of Thai, Japanese, Chinese, Indonesian, and Vietnamese including a full service sushi bar, bar & lounge. Enjoy their sidewalk cafe with bright red covered umbrellas for shade. 915 E St., NW; 202.629.4355

Asian Spice – This colorful modern dining room decorated in bright jewel tones, offers Asian inspired dishes that the restaurant insists is produced with only the freshest and finest ingredients on their artfully crafted menu. Relax and enjoy fresh sushi and an array of Asian cuisine on their seasonal outdoor patio. 717 H St., NW; 202.589.0900

Beacon Bar and Grill – Located in Washington, DCs bustling Dupont Circle, the restaurant combines a festive, high energy two story high lounge, an open air patio, as well as an elegant dining room reminiscent of a 1930′s ocean liner providing a sense of upscale casual dining. One of the summer’s seasonal attractions available at the Beacon Bar & Grill is it popular roof-top Beacon’s Sky Bar. The popular alfresco cocktail lounge features spectacular views of the Dupont Circle neighborhood, Embassy Row and expanses of the city skyline in the heart of Washington, DC. The lounge features creative and unique martinis and cocktails with innovative light fare. Open Wednesdays to Saturdays: 1615 Rhode Island Ave., NW; 202.872.1126

Belga Cafe - Credited as the original Belgian restaurant in Washington, DC. Belga is a great place for authentic Belgian food and Beer. Combining an intriguing atmosphere with excellent, light & healthy interesting food, Belga Café is a little bit of Brussels on the Hill, with an open kitchen and sidewalk café. Enjoy a delicious lunch, weekend brunch or dinner on our sun-soaked terrace. They have 7 tables available on a first come first served basis. Saturdays and Sundays brunch is served with a “Belgian waffles and chocolate” theme. Located near the Barracks row neighborhood: 514 8th St., SE.; 202.544.0100

Blue Duck Tavern – Dine al fresco on Blue Duck Tavern’s glorius terrace. Escape into the outdoor oasis while enjoying wholesome American fare prepared through simple, time-honored cooking methods such as roasting, braising, preserving and smoking. This contemporary neighborhood tavern evokes the warmth and convivial setting of a residential kitchen and gathering place. The restaurant welcomes guests with an open staff pantry and kitchen, complete with a wood-burning oven, as well as the showpiece custom-designed commercial Molteni range, crafted in France and the first of its kind in Washington, D.C. Handcrafted furnishings and heavy, uncovered wood tables keep the restaurant warm and contemporary, offering a welcoming dining experience. Loacted in West End at 1201 24 St., NW; 202.419.6755

Bombay Club - This gourmet Indian restaurant offers authentic Indian cuisine in an adaptation of the Ayurvedic tradition. The elegant environment with pale pastels, ceiling fans, and a profusion of greenery is designed to create a warm and inviting gathering place for relaxation and regeneration. The cuisine is the finest of India, utilizing only the best quality ingredients to create a harmony of subtle flavors. Specialties prepared by Executive Chef Nilesh Singhvi, include tandoori salmon and green chili chicken. Also a great option for Vegetarians. The sophisticated cuisine is enhanced by refine service and live piano music. Enjoy al fresco dining in an elegantly casual atmosphere. Outdoor tables may be reserved. 815 Connecticut Ave., NW; 202.659.3727

Brasserie Beck- A cheerful canopy of massive blue umbrellas and woven bistro seating brings a distinctly European joie de vivre to the corner of 11th and K. Belgium is the bold-faced theme of the stylish casual hot-spot seating 70, with tempting charcuterie and shellfish signatures such as Wild Mushroom Mussels, and new-comers, Whole Roasted Boneless Trout and Salmon en papillotte. With its own bar featuring four dedicated beers on tap, you can plan on staying on the sidewalk for a while. 1101 K Street, NW; 202.408.1717

Burger, Tap & Shake - At the bustling Washington Circle location of BTS, the newest member of the Passion Food Hospitality family, guests can get their people-watching fix in the thick of the Foggy Bottom neighborhood. Enjoy handcrafted Burgers and Milkshakes, boozy Shaketails, and select American beers in retro orange chairs at stainless steel tabletops. 2200 Pennsylvania Ave., NW; 202.587.6258

Cabanas – Offering upscale, authentic Latin American flavors on the scenic Georgetown Harbour. Coupled with the option of dining inside the handsome restaurant or outdoors overlooking the fountains, Cabanas cuisine features savory Ceviche, Spanish Paella, and several specialty cocktails including Frozen Mango Margaritas. Enjoy sitting in a private “cabana” overlooking the fountains of Georgetown’s popular, Washington Harbour. Outdoor tables are offered on a first come, first served basis. 3050 K St., NW; 202.944.4242

Café Du Parc – Just footsteps from the White House, you’ll be instantly transported to Paris with authentic wrought-iron furniture and bright blue umbrellas. Start the day off right with a café au lait and pain au chocolat. During the warmer months enjoy the use of 2 separate seating areas, our terrace located on Pennsylvania Avenue & our Courtyard located between the Willard Hotel & the Willard Business Center. Bon Apetit! 1401 Pennsylvania Ave., NW; 202.942.7000

Café Dupont – Sit, relax, and enjoy the colorful Dupont Circle scene while indulging in the palate-pleasing bistro-style menu of Café Dupont. After the senses are satisfied, boogie next door to Bar Dupont and hop onto one of the bright orange comfy outdoor couches. With space for over 70 outside, Bar Dupont is the most coveted neighborhood gathering place on the Circle. Great for people watching and mingling with the young hipster crowd. 1500 New Hampshire Ave., NW; 202.797.0169

Cantina Marina

Cantina Marina, a place that you’d expect to find in Miami, a fun waterside bar with draft beers in plastic cups and Jimmy Buffett playing on the speakers. It’s a place to go and have a margarita and watch the sun move over the water. Enjoy authentic Cajun dishes, such as, the gumbo, catfish, and po’ boys or try the Baja-California-style tacos. Their Crab balls, which are a cross between croquettes and crab cakes are a must have. 600 Water St., SW; 202.554.8396

Equinox - Enjoy contemporary fine dining with a view of DC landmarks from an outdoor patio or glass-walled atrium while enjoying some of the seasons best flavors from the mid-atlantic region. Restaurateurs Todd & Ellen Gray have offered the very best of local, seasonal and sustainable food to Washington, DC area diners for more than a decade. Food & Wine magazine named Equinox executive chef Karen Nicolas as one of its Best New Chefs of 2012 — one of the most coveted distinctions in the food business. 818 Connecticut Ave., NW; 202-331-8118

Hank’s Oyster Bar - The popular outdoor patio, which seats 22 for weekend brunch and dinner, is often filled with patrons feasting on Chef Leeds’ selection of freshly shucked oysters, clams and her famous Lobster Roll. Hank’s Oyster Bar also offers a variety of hand-crafted cocktails. 1624 Q St., NW; 202.462-HANK (4265)

J&G Steakhouse - Located in the W Hotel, J&G Steakhouse’s outdoor patio is now open for al fresco dining and cocktails featuring new lunch, afternoon, and dinner menus. The 90-seat patio with expanded seating, and lounge areas with elegantly modern fire pit cocktail tables is open noon to 10:00pm, Sunday through Thursday, and noon to 11:00pm on Friday and Saturday. 515 15th Street, NW; 202.661.2440

Johnny’s Half Shell – This award-winning seafood restaurant located on Capitol Hill, walking distance from Union Station, has an open-air, roof-covered terrace with a large bar and comfortable seating for 125 people. Using organic produce, poultry, meat and sustainable seafood, Johnny’s continues to delight Washington, DC area diners with its seafood specialties and strong drinks. With lively jazz and blues playing in the background, three happy hours Monday through Friday and free validated parking nightly (Hall of States Lot-E Street entrance, between N.Capitol Street and New Jersey Ave.), the Half Shell is rocking the Hill. 400 North Capitol St. NW; 202.737.0400.

Marcel’s - Elegant yet relaxed, the patio space flanking the entrance to one of the city’s most beloved special occasion restaurants transports you to a seat along the bustling sidewalks of Le Champs Élysée. Seated along Pennsylvania Avenue, in fact, you’ll be offered the bar menu – but make an evening of it and exercise your option to order from the complete dinner menu of Robert Wiedmaier’s award winning cuisine – a secret cherished by locals in-the-know. 2401 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW;202.296.1166

Masa 14 rooftop at night. Photo by Michael Palmer.

Masa 14 - Check out Masa 14′s brand new rooftop, with lots of chic dark wood, and elegant lighting fixtures. It even has its own kitchen, menu, and bar. Masa 14 is a unique restaurant that marries Latin and Asian flavors. The Crunchy Rooftop Handroll resemble ice cream cones, but packs in the flavor with pico de gallo, shrimp, a tangy lemony aioli, and is finished with crunchy chili tortilla strips. Or try the delicious Rising Sun, a plump Kobe beef hotdog, glazed with teriyaki. and topped with wasabi, furikake (sushi sprinkle), and finely-diced pickles. Wash it down with a lighter version of the mojito using half of the normal sugar, Mojito Modesto. 1825 14th St., NW; 202.328.1414

Poste Modern Brasserie - In the heart of Penn Quarter, located in the luxurious Hotel Monaco, Poste offers guests an opportunity to dine in the outdoor courtyard within their own garden. About 20% of what the restaurant uses is grown in the garden, including heirloom tomatoes, herbs and strawberries. 555 8th St., NW; 202.783.6060

POV - Atop of the swanky W Hotel, Point of View (POV) offers excellent bites and sips with a remarkable view of the White House, Washington Monument, and many other beautiful DC landmarks. Shout out to one of DC’s best and brightest mixologists, Joseph Ambrose! 515 15th St., NW; 202.661.2400

J&G Steakhouse Patio.

PS 7’s - Chef Peter Smith’s irrepressible creativity spills out into the courtyard of his elegant Penn Quarter restaurant. Outdoor seating for 50 is surrounded by potted herbal plants and other foliage to seclude diners from the bustling neighborhood. In good weather, it is sure to fill up fast – especially at lunchtime, when it offers both shade and the very best [house-made] People’s Choice Half-Smokes and the most creative libations in town. Now that Anthony Rivera is shaking and stirring his good stuff behind the bar, it’s another great reason to visit! 777 I Street, NW; 202.742.8550

Quill – Step out from the elegant lounge and onto the refined outdoor terrace at The Jefferson, DC, and feel free to puff away on a robust cigar while sipping a hand crafted cocktail or hundred-year-old Madeira. Known for expertly poured drink and fine conversation, Quill is the place to chill as the day comes to a close at one of the patio tables with an exclusive view of the home of our Commander-in-Chief. 1200 16th Street, NW; 202.448.2300

Sequoia: Their three-tier outdoor terrace offers stunning views of the waterfront and the flotilla of boats and kayaks passing by along with panoramic views of the Kennedy Center, the Watergate, Memorial and Key Bridges. If you prefer to stay out of the humidity, the rear facade of two-level restaurant is nearly all glass, allowing diners to enjoy the view of the river without suffering from the heat or the crowds. Enjoy modern American cuisine, a formidable wine list, and renowned River Bar. Don’t miss out on the fresh oysters! Be aware, all of Sequoia’s reservations are for inside only, while dining on the patio is seated on a first come first serve basis. In the summertime, happy hour along the Georgetown waterfront is a place to see and be seen. 3000 K St., NW; 202.944.4200

Virginia

Bayou Bakery Coffee Bar & Eatery - In Arlington, VA, the Louisiana vintage vibe bursts out-of-doors. Black iron gates forming an enclosure between dividers of wood and weathered tin planters, and a cozy couch that has sneaked outside, create casual seating for up to 24 along the Eatery’s breezy 15th street side. Authentic Louisiana fare oozes with authenticity from the crawfish boils and signature causal bites like the Catahoula [spiced hot-dog,] creamy Black and Blue Dip, delicate Beignets and buckets of Abita Beer. 1515 North Courthouse Rd., Arlington, VA; 703.243.2410

Bistrot Lafayette - Old Town Alexandria’s authentic French Bistro, offers al fresco dining for a few lucky guests. Enjoy Bistrot Lafayette’s chef Keo Koumtakoun’s signature style of artistically presented French cuisine and a French wines and warm hospitality. Outdoor tables may be reserved. 1118 King Street Alexandria, VA; 703.548.2525

Brabo - Located in historic Old Town Alexandria, BRABO by Robert Wiedmaier offers a beautiful outdoor patio, creating the ideal atmosphere for a relaxing breakfast, lunch, dinner or Sunday brunch in a courtyard setting. The new oasis for BRABO diners features 28-seats complete with umbrellas and is located adjacent to property’s custom-made clock tower and fountain. The restaurant’s Belgian-inspired brunch menu is a great way to start the day before strolling down to the waterfront and visiting the area’s abundant antique shops. Served from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Sunday brunch patrons can enjoy Chef Robert Wiedmaier’s Belgian Waffle with Crème Fraiche, Lemon Zest, Apple Butter and Pennsylvania Maple Syrup; Roasted Farmhouse Chicken with Gruyère Cheese Potato Cake, or the Randall Lineback Burger with Bacon, Cheddar and Brioche served with Belgian Frites. A complete menu is available below. Link to Dining Review. 1600 King Street, Alexandria, VA; 703.894.3440

The Chart House, located on the historic Potomac River at the foot of King Street, the area’s only waterfront dining location boasts panoramic views of the river, as well as, other DC landmarks. With nightly entertainment, enjoy a relaxing evening with while watching the sunset on the water. 1 Cameron St., Alexandria, VA; 703.684.5080

Indigo Landing, situated on Daingerfield Island, adjacent to the Washington Marina, diners can enjoy watching the boats set sail on the Potomac from their 100-seat outdoor deck and location along the water: the perfect setting for a night out. Find refuge from your long day of museum hopping in the bustling city and enjoy the tranquility of the naturalistic setting while viewing the monuments from your relaxing chair. Instead of waiting in line, you can enjoy the views of DC over your favorite cocktail, specialty drink, or a glass of fine wine from our international wine list. 1 Marina Dr., Alexandria, VA; 703.548.0001

Madigan’s Waterfront, located right on the Occoquan River. Their expansive partially covered deck and tiki bar is especially attractive on summer evenings, where you can enjoy live entertainment, drinks and fresh seafood, and watch for Ospreys flying down the Occoquan River. 201 Mill St. Occoquan, VA; 703.494.6373

PassionFish - Now that the warm weather is upon us, the patios are shaking off their winter dust and the global seafood selections are making their seasonal debut in abundance. Chefs Jeff Tunks and Chris Clime are known as the master seafood mongers of DC, hooking you up with the best catch of the day. The hip vibe of the restaurant flows outdoors, where comfortable lounge chairs and chic tables grace a 46-seat patio, allowing diners to enjoy signature dishes and clever cocktails. If you’re looking for a kid-friendly restaurant with style, this is your place. The kid’s menu is one of the very best in the area. 11960 Democracy Boulevard Reston, VA 20190– 703.230.3474

Maryland

McLoone’s Pier House, (pictured above) part of the new emerging development, just outside of DC, the National Harbor, rising from the banks of the Potomac River in Prince George’s County, MD, the National Harbor offers a wide array of restaurants ranging from elegant waterfront dining to family-friendly and casual eating establishments. At McCloone’s, counting down to sunset is cause for celebration, literally. Enjoy a very lively happy hour spot with live music daily starting at 7 p.m., you can watch the sun set over the flotilla of sails and masts, while sipping on your specialty cocktail and enjoying bowls of their peel-and-eat shrimp. Dine al fresco on their patio with a breathtaking sunset view while enjoying a fresh zesty salad or pasta, savory crab dip, fresh sushi, mouth-watering burger, or steak – you’ll have a hard time choosing! 141 National Plaza, Oxon Hill, MD; 301.839.0815

Mussel Bar– The big ol’ picnic tables and umbrellas outside Bethesda’s Mussel Bar reflect the extreme casual essence of Robert Wiedmaier’s upscale ‘dive.’ Indulge in the fresh local breakfast, lunch, and dinner served up with a side of fresh air. Besides the delectable Mussels, flat savoryBelgian Tartes and Pizzas are hard to resist. 7262 Woodmont Avenue Bethesda, MD; 301.215.7817

Rosa Mexicano, also located at the National Harbor, enjoy a pomegranate margarita and bowl of made-to-order guacamole on the outdoor patio overlooking the water. 153 Waterfront St., Oxon Hill, MD; 301.567.1005

Celebrating Cinco de Mayo Deliciosamente! Ole!

diningindc — Wed, 02 May 2012 00:14:25 +0000

Deliciosamente!

It’s time for Cinco de Mayo! Dining in DC is making it easy to celebrate all week long with this roundup of fiestas, margaritas, and music. Here are just a few places to do tequila shots and have your photo taken with a donkey wearing an oversized sombrero!

Alero: U Streets, Alero celebrates with Grand Margarita tastings (Jose Cuervo Margarita with Grand Marnier), $4 Cuervo Margaritas, $6 Cadillac Margaritas, Nuvo body painted ladies in the Nuvo VIP section, free samples of Nuvo, tons of giveaways, food specials, etc. 4 p.m. to close. (1301 U St. NW)

Asia Nine: Might be a good place to go and dodge the madness … enjoy $5 Margaritas and $7 Tequila shots all day! Saturday, May 5, 2012, from open to close. Includes specials like Berry Margarita & Tequila Sunrise. Patio specials include: $4 Bottles of Singha Beer and $5 Sake Bombs. (915 E Street, NW)

Bandolero: Chef Mike Isabella’s takeover and latest pop-up resto concludes with the biggest Cinco de Mayo party in the city. The festivities start at 12pm, with an a la carte menu available all day. From 5 to 7pm, guests 21 and over can enjoy samples of the Bandolero signature margarita and Sticky Fingers Sweets & Eats‘ margarita cupcake, a vanilla cupcake with lime juice and tequila frosting, served with or without salt and never on the rocks. Sorry, no reservations taken. Tackle Box in Cleveland Park (3407 Connecticut Ave. NW); 202.294.2319

Cafe Citron: Known as the place to go salsa dancing, celebrate early with Wednesday, May 3rd for their annual carnival festival with drink specials ($5 Caipirinhas; $4 Dos XX( and live samba dancers. On Cinco de Mayo, enjoy plenty of drink specials: Corona and domestic beers are $4; margaritas and shots are $5. (1343 Connecticut Ave., NW)

Photo courtesy of Asia Nine

Cantina Marina: Pacifico, OnTap Magazine, and Cantina Marina are offering a truly unique event for Cinco de mayo this year: the “Running of the Chihuahuas” 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.! The puppies run at the 7th Street Landing, then come over to Cantina for the after party. Sign up your dog at OnTap’s website, for a chance to win $500! Race proceeds go to Paws Southwest to build a dog park in Southwest DC. (600 Water St., SW)

Ceiba: Stylish celebrations at this Downtown South and Central American’s svelte bar/lounge will be sparked by $5 margaritas and $5 street-food dishes like tacos al pastor, Mexican-style fish ‘n’ chips and ceviche (May 2–4, 3 PM–close; May 5, 2:30 PM–close; (701 14th Street, NW) 202-393-3983).

El Centro: Chef-owner Richard Sandoval will open his blockbuster 14th Street, NW taqueria with a huge party on May 5th, featuring unlimited aperitivos for $20. $5 Margaritas. $4 Dos XX and enjoy complimentary Mexican Flautas, Tortas, Tacos, Quesadillas and more. Party animals can start their celebration early with Bottomless Brunch (11 a.m.- 5 p.m.) $35 all you can eat & drink. PRE BOOK TICKETS | call 202.328.3131 or email ntulin@richardsandoval.com A cash bar will showcase the restaurant’s tequilas, and a DJ will spin tunes on the rooftop (5 PM–2 AM).

Guajillo: This festive Courthouse cantina really revs up on May 5 with tequila-based drinks and shooters, and souvenir gifts for customers (703-807-0840).

Photo courtesy of CityEats.com

Hill Country Barbecue Market: Cinco De Mayo falls on the same Saturday this year as the Kentucky Derby and if you can’t choose between celebrating Cinco de Mayo or the Kentucky Derby, head over to the latest hot-spot in town: Hill Country where you won’t have to. They’re throwing a “Cinco de Derby” party and serving Beef Short Ribs, Beef Barbacoa, Elote (Mexican corn on the cob) and Flan with carmelized peanuts. Wash it all down with a few “Mexican Juleps”, a tequila-based drink with fresh mint and cactus puree. Sounds like you can get the best of both worlds! 410 7th St., NW; (202) 556-2050

La Tasca (Washington, DC): La Tasca is home to some of the best Spanish tapas and sangria, and with five restaurants in the DC-area, one of the locations is sure to be convenient for you to celebrate and get your drink on. 722 7th St., NW

Jake’s American Grille: After brunching on some of Jake’s delicious grub which includes eggs, waffles, and burgers, make your way downstairs to the recently-opened “Boiler Room”. There, you can watch the races, play video games, and hit up the billiards table all while sipping on some margaritas and other tequila cocktails. 5018 Connecticut Ave., NW

Masa 14: On Saturday May 5th | 5PM to close enjoy 5 Specialty Margaritas for $5; Choose from Tradicional, Modesta, Mango, Mixed Berry & Strawberry. $10 Rooftop Access; No Cover on the Main Floor. Hungry for Masa 14’s menu of Latin Asian small plates? Their regular dinner service will be available in the dining room.

Mio: This Downtown Latin will honor its heritage with hors d’ oeuvres and a tequila tasting hosted by Anibal Gomez Toledo, head of the consular section of the Embassy of Mexico in DC (6–8 PM; $50, $20 for members of GWHCC). From May 2–7, a special three-course, $38 prix fixe will be served in addition to the regular offerings (202-955-0075).

Perry’s: On the 5th, enjoy pork and bean tacos ($5) – along with its usual eclectic fare and cool drinks – at the rooftop bar of this Adams Morgan New American (202-234-6218).

RIS: Offering a special Mexican themed menu, serving chicken, lime and tortilla soup with chilis and sour cream on Saturday, May 5. On May 6 the soup calendar turns to “new” Mexico with a green chile and pork posole with corn bread and honey. Both are available all day each day as part of RIS’ ongoing soup program. Cup – $5; Pint – $8; Quart – $12; also available to-go.

Rosa Mexicano: May 5th means party time at this Mexican’s Penn Quarter and National Harbor locations, which are offering special dishes and margaritas, as well as festive decorations, music, and lots of prizes and giveaways! Enjoy a Cinco de Mayo fiesta with live music and a special menu. (Penn Quarter: 202-783-5522; National Harbor: 301-567-1005).

The Park at 14th: Beach attire is encouraged at Living Social’s Park at 14th fiesta — think flip-flops to sombreros. For $30 dineros, enjoy a buffet of quesadillas, empanadas and nachos; a free margarita made with Corona beer, and $20 buckets of Corona bottles. Entertainment comes from the Dance Party, the local-band-gone-L.A. whose pop-punk sound is infused with ’80s new-wave energy, DJ EPX and, for early arrivals, a mariachi band. (920 14th St., NW)

Tortilla Coast – Logan Circle: Celebrate Cinco de Mayo everyday this week (May 2-5). Take your picture with a life size cut-out of The Most Interesting Man in the World, and enjoy a Dos Equis happy hour all day Wednesday. Win fun prizes while sipping on Cazadores tequila during happy hour on Thursday. Margaritas will be blended with Cointreau Noir tableside during happy hour on Friday. On Saturday, the Tanteo Jalapeno Margarita makes its debut, made with infused jalapeno tequila, agave syrup, and fresh lime juice.

Tortilla Coast - Capitol Hill: Get your Mexican on this week starting on Wednesday with specials such as Sauza Gold Coast margaritas and Sauza Hornitos Plata shots. On Thursday CoronaRitas are $10 all night and on Friday Dos Equis Amber drafts are only $4. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with $5 Sauza Plata shots all day and a surprise live mariachi band! (400 1st St., SE)

National Cinco de Mayo Festival
Sylvan Theater at the base of the Washington Monument
Madison Dr. and 15th St. NW.
Washington, DC 20001
http://marumontero.com/cinco.htm

Price: Free

Date: May 5th, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. rain or shine

On May 5, everyone is Latino, or so says the slogan of this year’s National Cinco de Mayo Festival. Held at the base of the Washington Monument, this family-friendly festival includes dance performances, live music, delicious Latin dishes and even a Mexican market. The fiesta continues in the children’s pavilion where the little ones can make pinatas and dancing puppets, play Mexican bingo for a chance to win prizes and participate in fun workshops. Organized by the Maru Montero Dance Company, the festival is said to celebrate not only Mexicans and their heritage but all Latinos in our country.