5 new must-try lunches in D.C.

Thanks to the bitter cold (and this blasted furlough), local businesses could use a little extra love. And you know what? So could you. The next time you're in the mood for something a lot more interesting than a sad desk salad, there are a handful of new options around town that offer everything from seafood to Mediterranean to Mexican to spice up your mid-day meal. Here are five great reasons to keep that frozen lunch on ice for one more day. Olivia.

6 spots proving chefs are majorly inspired by the Mediterranean right now

You can almost feel the sun on your face at a number of new eateries opening around town. That’s because chefs and restaurateurs are looking to the Mediterranean for inspiration. Menus are showcasing the influence Greece, Turkey, Israel and other countries in the region are having on chefs currently. OliviaThe restaurant formerly known as Nopa has been transformed.

8 bartenders compete at the 'Top Dog Bartender Shake Off'

On Sunday, January 20, 2019, eight professional D.C. bartenders competed for the coveted title of "Top Dog" in a craft cocktail competition.

5 rising star chefs to watch out for in 2019

D. C. has produced a clutch of culinary superstars, from Andrés to Ziebold. But who is going to be the next big thing? Here are five rising star chefs whose food you will fall in love with this year. Yuan Tang of Rooster & Owl. “It’s a choose your own adventure,” says Tang of his debut restaurant, which he is opening in Columbia Heights in early February with his wife and general manager Carey Tang.

Inside the José Andrés kitchen that's feeding furloughed feds

#ChefsForFeds is a part of Andrés' World Central Kitchen, a charity venture that feeds those in need around the world.

7 hot spots to find healthy juices for January (and beyond)

January is a time to renew focus on a healthy lifestyle and recharge after a harried and sugar-filled holiday season. Unfortunately, those goals are often easier said than done, and eating right doesn't magically get easier when the calendar changes. One way to take the guesswork out of improving your diet is to grab a fresh juice packed with nutrient-rich fruits, vegetables, nuts and herbs.

Where to score deals during Women's March on Washington 2019

I honestly cannot believe that D. C. is gearing up to host the third annual Women's March on Washington -- wasn't the inaugural march just yesterday? The official Facebook group has 9,600 people marked as "interested" in attending and approximately 6,200 marked as "going" at the time of publication. That's a lot of hungry, fired-up folks to feed! "The #WomensWave is coming, and we’re sweeping the world forward with us," declares the event Facebook page.

Kraft is opening a pop-up grocery store in D.C. supporting furloughed workers

For families affected by the government shutdown, now in its fourth week, Kraft is offering some aid, with an initiative called "Kraft Now Pay Later. "A pop-up store filled with Kraft products such as mac and cheese, bags of cheese, slices of cheese, salad dressings, mayo and BBQ sauce will be open January 16-20 at 1287 4th Street NE, two blocks from Union Market. The store will remain open from 10 a. m. - 6 p. m. on Jan. 16 and then from 8 a. m. -6 p. m. from Jan. 17-20.

How you can buy a beer for furloughed workers

Yesterday may have been the first official OPM snow closure of 2019, but for many federal workers in the DMV, it is far from the first day off. Today is day 25 of the longest government shutdown in U. S. history, with more than 800,000 federal workers on furlough.

Celebrity chef José Andrés opens pop-up restaurant to help unpaid federal workers

Bethesda celebrity chef José Andrés, who is a nominee for the 2019 Nobel Peace Prize for his non-profit disaster work in Puerto Rico and California, is bringing his humanitarian efforts back home this week by opening a relief kitchen in the District to feed federal employees during the shutdown. The shutdown is the now the longest in US history, and government employees missed their first paycheck of the year three days ago.

Restaurant Rumblings: Chaia Expands, Espita does lunch and more

The D. C. food scene is constantly evolving, and it can be hard for even the biggest food fan to keep up. Restaurant Rumblings is here to get you up to speed on the latest bar and restaurant news, from hot openings to exciting new menus. Openings: Vim & Victor. (6805 Industrial Rd, Springfield) Chef Spike Mendelsohn's health-conscious eatery is now open inside the St. James sports and wellness complex.

Shutdown Sitch: Where essential government employees should eat lunch (part 2)

With ninegovernment departments still shuttered during the shutdown, we wanted to offer a few dining suggestions to workers who may find themselves with a little more time for lunch than usual. All lunch options suggested are less than a mile (walking) away, so we hope you'll branch out from your food truck fav and explore more of the city's vibrant lunch scene!

10 dishes not to miss during Restaurant Week

From sweets to booze, we have you covered.

First Look: Peek inside the new Chaia Tacos in Mount Vernon Triangle

If going vegetarian, or just cleaning up your diet in general, is on your list of things to accomplish in 2019,Bettina Stern and Suzanne Simon are making it just a bit easier. The co-founders of Georgetown's popular vegetarian taco brand, Chaia Tacos, opened the doors of their second outpost today in Mount Vernon Triangle.

Let's talk love (and cocktails) on Whiskey Charlie's rooftop

We asked what you wanted more of in 2019, and we heard you loud and clear: COCKTAILS! So join us on Saturday, February 9 for our first cocktail class of 2019 at the Wharf's stunning rooftop bar, Whiskey Charlie. From 2-3 p. m. the Whiskey Charlie team will walk you through how to make three cocktails that will have you feeling the love. And nothing is more romantic than a champagne cocktail!

5 restaurant openings we're excited for in 2019

The new year is here and with it comes a flurry of new restaurants spanning the culinary spectrum. Here are five we can’t wait to try. Emilie’s. Kevin Tien earned a slew of accolades at Himitsu – a Best New Chef award from Food & Wine, a James Beard nomination, and, yes, a spot on People’s “Sexiest Chef Alive” list. He’s building on those achievements by going big – a 5,175 square foot plot in the Penn Eleven development on Capitol Hill to be exact.

5 new brunches to try in 2019

Take your brunch game to new heights. Here are five fantastic new options that will help you level up. St. Anselm. 1250 5th St NE. Whether you’re in the mood for a sweet or savory start to your day, executive chef Marjorie Meek-Bradley has you covered. In the latter category, there’s hot sauce Hollandaise drizzled oysters ‘n’ grits with a poached egg, steak and eggs complemented by golden hash browns and béarnaise sauce, and gravy slathered chipped beef on white bread.

Sip what now? Brabo Brasserie's Truffle Vesper

Earthy and funky, fresh white truffles are one of the most indulgent ingredients of the winter season. A few shavings of the expensive fungi pack a ton of flavor, enhancing dishes like pastas and omelets. And at Brabo Brasserie in Alexandria, white truffles add a luxurious twist to a classic cocktail.

5 hangover-busting New Year's Day brunches

Champagne is great for toasting the new year, but it can cause a wicked hangover. If you know you'll be the feeling the pain of celebrating, here are D. C. 's best hangover-busting brunches hit up on January 1. Where: Jack Rose,2007 18th St. NW. When: 3:00 p. m. -10:00 p. m. The deal: Jack Rose will be hosting a hog roast on their heated rooftop. The event isn't ticketed, but you can get in on the bottomless plates of pulled pork plus collard greens and poblano cornbread for $15.

9 of our food writers' most memorable meals in 2018

2018 was a roller coaster of a ride for D. C. 's dining scene, with unexpected closures, a chef unraveling and increased national attention for the incredible restaurants our city boasts. With so many worthy options, choosing where to spend your hard-earned dollars can be a tough choice. So, as our year-end gift to you dear readers, consider the restaurants mentioned below (all recommended by our expert team of food writers) must visits for your foodie bucket list. Happy eating, friends!

Restaurant Rumblings: Changes at Hazel, Omakase in Falls Church

The D. C. food scene is constantly evolving, and it can be hard for even the biggest food fan to keep up. Restaurant Rumblings is here to get you up to speed on the latest bar and restaurant news, from hot openings to exciting new menus. Openings:Yume sushi. (2121 N. Westmoreland St. , Arlington)Guests at this new Falls Church restaurant can sink their teeth into fresh sushi rolls or experience a classic Japanese omakase meal built on the daily whims of executive chef Saran Kannasute.

The 13 most important people in DMV booze

Here in the District and its environs, we’re rightly proud that we can now boast of some of the country’s best beer bars, cocktail dens and craft distilleries. But these places didn’t just sprout up out of the clay soil. They were painstakingly midwifed into being by an obsessed group of brewers, vintners, distillers and bar owners. Click through the gallery to see our homage to the 13 people who have made our local drinking culture what it is today.

Make eating healthy in 2019 a breeze with these 5 meal-prep services

If you are one of the many people listing a healthier diet as your New Year’s resolution, you may be unsure of where to start. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, having your meals ready to go is your first line of defense before giving in to unhealthy fast food or whatever your office is ordering for lunch that day. That's why so many health gurus recommend planning your meals in advance, aka meal prep!

Shutdown Sitch: Where essential government employees should eat lunch (part 1)

Welcome to day five of the partial government shutdown of 2018. Even though the shutdown officially began at 12:01 a. m. on December 22, the holiday weekend means most of the 800,000 government employees affected are spending today navigating what the shutdown means for them, their paycheck and their work week.

We taste-tested 5 local medium-roast coffees

In D. C. , good coffee is almost always just around the corner. And thankfully, we now have many local small businesses to patronize. With the hopes of helping conscientious, caffeine-focused locals who actually care about the little details when it comes to coffee roasting, DC Refined has put together a list of five of the best alternatives to Starbucks.

The DMV's first Taco Bell Cantina is finally here

Boozy Freezes and local beer are on tap!

How pastelitos and Cubanos are helping one D.C. chef stay close to his roots

Over the past two years, at least three new Cuban restaurants have opened in the D. C. area. However, the rich flavors of Cuban cuisine have been thriving at Chef David Guas' Bayou Bakery, Coffee Bar & Eatery in Arlington for over seven years.

5 new kid-friendly restaurants perfect for the whole family

Some nights you don't feel like cooking for the family, takeout seems like a cop out, and no one can agree on where to order from on Caviar. Don't worry, there are plenty of new kid-friendly restaurants where everyone will have a great meal. Little BeastNaomi Gallego first gained recognition – including a RAMMY Award nomination – for her pastry work at Blue Duck Tavern and Neighborhood Restaurant Group. Turns out, she can handle the savory side of the kitchen equally well.

Hey, hey soufflé is on the rise and having a moment

A classic dessert is popping up – well, gently rising really – all over town: soufflé. Both sweet and savory preparations of the French delicacy are staging a comeback. Here are eight spots where you can revel in their eggy elegance – just make sure you do it quickly, before they deflate. The Hay-Adams. French traditionalism reigns here. Pastry chef Elenor Apolonio-Frantz’s spot-on soufflé is puffy and fluffy – a delightful sweet cloud.

Dine out on Christmas at one of these 10 restaurants

Don’t feel like cooking for Christmas? We don't blame you! The holidays are a time to relax and enjoy your family and friend’s company, not stress over a perfect meal in the kitchen. Thankfully, many D. C. restaurants are serving up delicious holiday menus. Just don’t forget to make reservations! Blue Duck TavernBlue Duck Tavern is offering a special three-course holiday mealon Christmas. Start your meal with a selection of seafood, cheese and charcuterie.

Restaurant Rumblings: Indian abounds & German street food in Georgetown

The D. C. food scene is constantly evolving, and it can be hard for even the biggest food fan to keep up. Restaurant Rumblings is here to get you up to speed on the latest bar and restaurant news, from hot openings to exciting new menus. New on the menu: Combat order envy with the new lunch thali platters at Pappe (1317 14th St. NW). The affordable – and filling – platters are arranged with various Indian curries, vegetables, naan and condiments for a complete meal experience.

4 new bakeries where you can indulge your sweet tooth

We are suckers for sweets. Lucky for us, there is a quartet of new bakeries where we can indulge ourselves, whether we’re in the mood for crazysexycool cakes, Greek goodies, blue-ribbon breakfast treats, or the best banana pudding we’ve ever eaten. Ever. Thank goodness our new diet doesn’t start until January! Mastiha Artisan Greek Bakery. Of course, Greek rooted baker Katerina Georgallas makes baklava. Her version rolls flakey layers of pastry around cinnamon and honey kissed walnuts.

How to navigate all three floors of Todd Thrasher's rum tiki bar

It’s December, and you know what that means. Time to sip on rum and share big mugs of tiki drinks! Ok, so maybe that wasn’t your first guess. But trust us, you’ve got an excuse to sip out of season. It’s called Potomac Distilling, and it comes from Todd Thrasher, the bar maestro behind P/X in Old Town and the lobby in The Line hotel, among other boozy haunts. “I opened a bar where I want to go,” said Thrasher. “It’s like P/X 13 years ago. ”

Ashok Bajaj dishes on the evolution of fine-dining Indian food

Opening a restaurant in D. C. is no easy feat. But to have it stay open for three decades with much acclaim is a huge achievement. That’s exactly what The Bombay Club, an upscale Indian restaurant situated by the White House, has done. 30 years ago, Restaurateur Ashok Bajaj came to D. C. with the intention to open a fine dining Indian restaurant. But it took a lot to convince his landlord that D. C. was indeed ready for such an establishment.

Holiday Gift Guide: Local goodies to wow your fav foodie

Punch Bowl Social is the adult playground you didn't know you needed

This is like game night on steroids!

Inside DC Refined's cocktail class with Whiskey Charlie

This is the final class of 2018, but never fear - we'll be back with our monthly cocktail classes in 2019!

Restaurant Rumblings: Scotch at Scotts, Amalfi at the MGM and more

The D. C. food scene is constantly evolving, and it can be hard for even the biggest food fan to keep up. Restaurant Rumblings is here to get you up to speed on the latest bar and restaurant news, from hot openings to exciting new menus. Openings:Scotts DC. (927 F St. NW)Cozy up with English tavern fare and an extensive list of single malt whiskies at Scotts, a new bar, restaurant and club in Penn Quarter.

6 pastry chefs reveal their favorite holiday desserts

‘Tis the season to be binging on festive sweets. That’s how the song goes, right? To help us indulge over the holidays, we reached out to six pastry chefs to find out which of their desserts they love the most at this time of year. Caitlin Dysart of Centrolina“I’ve made a lot of Bûche de Noël in the past, so I wanted to do something a bit more Italian,” says Dysart. After some consideration, she decided on Cassata Siciliana.

Lessons from the kitchen with restaurateur Jamie Leeds

When Jamie Leeds first moved to D. C. in 2003, the concept of a neighborhood restaurant was still foreign. There was an opportunity for the taking and she seized it. The self-taught chef from New York turned a tribute to her father (Hank's Oyster Bar is named for her father) and good cooking into six successful restaurants, a popular cocktail bar and a restaurant group that employs roughly 300 people.

Occupy the kids during winter break with a cooking class

Thanksgiving is over, and now it’s time for parents to worry about the next holiday hurdle—what to do with the wee ones during the two-week stretch of winter break. If your little one is as addicted to “The Great British Baking Show” as my daughter is, we’ve got at least one activity to break up what can feel like an eternal school holiday: cooking classes.

At The Smith, every night is family meal night

We crashed family meal at The Smith one Friday night!

You can host this chic taco brunch any time of the year

Washingtonians take brunch very, very seriously -- it's pretty much a religion! We spend Monday-Friday planning for brunch, while Saturdays and/or Sundays are reserved for brunching... and brunching hard! Instead of opting for the same restaurant weekend after weekend, spice things up by hosting your own killer brunch. And instead of serving the typical eggs benny, avo toast and waffles, wow your guests with a build-your-own taco bar!

Curious Foods: American Son's tofu gnocchi will convert the tofu opposed

Admit it. Tofu sounds healthy. It rarely – if ever – feels like the indulgent menu choice, especially when surrounded by all manner of meats, cheeses and carbs. True as that might be, the tofu averse need to fight that mindset when eating at American Son, chef Tim Ma's new K street restaurant. Ma is known for his kitchen experimentation, believing that a great restaurant should expose diners to techniques and flavors they’re unlikely to recreate in their home kitchens.

What does Amazon mean for Crystal City dining?

D. C. restaurateurs like José Andrés and Spike Mendelsohn are probably feeling pretty good about their fortuitous expansions into the Crystal City dining market years ago. Andres’ Jaleo and Mendelsohn’s We, The Pizza and Good Stuff Eatery will give next year’s influx of Amazon workers a taste of what the region has to offer when the company opens its Crystal City—pardon us, National Landing—campus.

Carrot cake is springing up on menus all over D.C.

Carrot cake seems to be one of those love-it-or-hate-it desserts, but here’s some great news for all you love-it people: the classic spiced cake is popping up all over town. Even better news is that in addition to the traditional layer cake with cream cheese frosting, pastry chefs are having a bit of fun with these comforting flavors, meaning there are many ways you can get your fix.

Cater Thanksgiving with one of these 5 D.C. restaurants for a stress-free dinner

If cooking isn't your thing, but you've somehow managed to be the host for this year's Thanksgiving festivities, don't sweat! There are a number of D. C. restaurants offering catering packages for Thanksgiving Day. Some will take care of the whole meal from the turkey to the pie, and others have a la carte options. Your guests will have a delicious meal and all you have to do is place the order and pick it up -- it's a total win-win!

The ultimate guide on where to buy Thanksgiving pies

Pretty much everybody loves pie at Thanksgiving, but not everyone wants to spend the time making them. Spare yourself the schlep, the prep, the struggles, the stress and the scrubbing by picking up a pie (or three) at one of these sweet spots.

10 restaurants where you can dine out this Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is just about a week away, and our mouths are starting to salivate. While the day can be an awesome time to bond with family or friends over a delicious meal, we totally understand if you don't want to be cooking all morning or cleaning dishes all night -- no judgment here! Or maybe you're stuck in town this year without any local family to share a meal with, and looking for a place to make you feel a litle less alone. Thankfully, there a number of D. C.

Restaurant Rumblings: Cuban in Silver Spring and Thanksgiving croissants

The D. C. food scene is constantly evolving, and it can be hard for even the biggest food fan to keep up. Restaurant Rumblings is here to get you up to speed on the latest bar and restaurant news, from hot openings to exciting new menus. New on the menu:Savor the flavors of fall with new offerings at the Upper West Side Cafe (2233 M St. NW), located inside the city’s Squash On Fire facility.

More than 30 coffee shops giving away $1 cappuccinos

This week was the first day I actually felt a little shiver run down my spine on my walk home from work, even with a jacket on, and I couldn't have been more excited about it! But if you need a little extra warmth today,Ritual, an order-ahead food app, is celebrating National Cappuccino Day with $1 cappuccinos! More than 30 cafes in the DMV are participating. Login to the Ritual app and search "Cappuccino" to select a nearby restaurant.

Test your hand at making winter drinks at private cocktail class

Start your Saturday on a high note and join DC Refined for a private cocktail class at one of the Wharf's stunning rooftop bars, Whiskey Charlieon Saturday, December 1 from 2-3 p. m. We are continuing our popular summer classes this winter, and this time we will be whipping up winter warmers! The Whiskey Charlie team will walk you through how to make cocktails to keep you warm all winter long.

3 recipes to use up your excess Halloween candy

Are you still mindlessly munching on leftover Halloween candy? Instead, try one of these recipes created by Dave Weir, the newly appointed pastry chef at Red's Table, to elevate your candy game. Whether you intend to share with coworkers or friends, or you plan to eat the whole thing yourself (no judgment! ), the calories will seem way more worthwhile in these Instagrammable desserts! American-Style Ice Cream. Recipe courtesy Dave Weir. American Style Ice Cream (Image: Courtesy Red's Table)

Four delicious D.C. recipes to keep you toasty and satisfied as the temperatures drop

Remember when we were all complaining about how long and wet the summer had been? Now it's the time of year where we can all safely retreat indoors and stay cozy. When binging on Netflix gets old, here are four D. C. recipes to keep your stomach happy as the temperature drops. 1. Make Supra's khachapuri, "the Georgian cheesy bread of your dreams" Earlier this year we chatted with the team at Supra to get the scoop on how to make their legendarykhachapuri.

The DMV's best election day deals to keep the stress at bay

No matter who you're voting for, election day can always be a bit nerve-racking. Although you could try meditation (or you know, screaming into a pillow), sometimes a stiff drink and great food are the best way to handle the voting results rolling in. Many of the deals are contingent upon you showing up wearing an 'I Voted' sticker, so be sure to grab one when you fill in your ballot - and don't forget D. C. has same day voter registration!

Meet D.C.'s top female bartenders (part three)

We are definitely in the midst of a "Who run the world? #GIRLS! " moment in D. C. 's mixology scene and we are HERE. FOR. IT! We rounded up a few of our favorite boss bartending babes for you to get to know -- and then go sample their work! Chelsea Wood: Bar manager,RARE Steakhouse & Tavern. Where are you most likely to go when you're not working? I really enjoy a low-key environment to unwind. Union Trust is one of my favorite spots. Fav. thing about D. C.

Take a Sip Down Memory Lane: 20+ years of Starbucks Holiday Cups

Mark your calendars! Starbucks holiday cups return November 2

I must block this out every year, because when I saw Starbucks was releasing their holiday cups on Friday, November 2, all I could think was THIS IS TOO EARLY! And then annoyed me had to go on a quest to prove just how insanely early this release was... only to discover it is a day LATER than the 2017 holiday cups were released.

Meet D.C.'s top female bartenders (part two)

We are definitely in the midst of a "Who run the world? #GIRLS! " moment in D. C. 's mixology scene and we are HERE. FOR. IT! We rounded up a few of our favorite boss bartending babes for you to get to know -- and then go sample their work! * Stay tuned for the third and final part of this series later this week. Brittany Thornton: Bar Manager, Poca Madre. Favorite drink offered this fall: The Kid Dynomite.

Meet D.C.'s top female bartenders (part one)

In case you haven't noticed, a lot of the faces behind some of D. C. 's top bars right now are ladies! We are definitely in the midst of a "Who run the world? #GIRLS! " moment in D. C. 's mixology scene and we are HERE. FOR. IT! We've rounded up a few of our favorites, and hope you'll read on to see where to find them, what to expect this season and their signature drinks. Get to know them better, and then go sample their work!

Which Starbucks Halloween drink do you prefer?

Let's play who wore it better and see which of Starbucks' Halloween specialty beverages are "winning" life. In one corner we have 2017's "Zombie Frappucino" made with ghastly green Frappuccino Crème infused with flavors of tart apple and caramel, and topped with pink whipped cream "brains" and red mocha drizzle. Not sure yet? And over here we have 2018's "Witch’s Brew Frappuccino" featuring a concoction of purple “toad’s breath,” green “bat warts” and a dusting of “lizard scales. ”

The best boo-zy Halloween deals around the DMV

You don't have to spend Halloween (or the weekend before it) passing out candy if you don't want to. Here are some of the best and spookiest deals around D. C. Where:City Tap Penn Quarter, 901 9th St NWWhen:Saturday, October 27, 9 p. m. - 11 p. m. The Deal: Guests can enjoy themed cocktails or purchase an open bar package for $35, which includes mixed drinks, beer and wine at City Tap Penn Quarter's Witchin’ Halloween Party.

Starbucks opened the first-ever Signing Store in D.C.

It's focused on ASL and deaf accessibility!

What is natural wine and where can you drink it in the DMV?

At first glance, the term “natural wine” seems like a misnomer. Wine is made from grapes and yeast, so what can be more “natural” than that, right? But you’d be surprised how many additives can go into a bottle. Chemical pesticides sprayed on vines can combat harmful bugs and bacteria, and herbicides can replace the job of hand weeding; both can remain on grapes after they are crushed and pressed.

DMV Black Restaurant Week kicks off next month

You likely heard about the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington’sRestaurant Week the minute you moved to D. C. The popular biannual event aims to lure customers to restaurants during otherwise slow periods by offering three-course dining deals at some of the city’s toniest spots. Now, there’s a new restaurant week to add to your calendar—the DMV Black Restaurant Week (DMVBRW), which takes place Nov.

Enjoy a taste of Indian high tea with Bindaas' cutting chai menu

You may not always associate afternoon tea with an Indian masala chai but it actually is a quintessential part of daily life in India. And while it’s not usually an elaborate affair, a cup of chai with a snack or two is commonplace. In fact, most people take multiple "chai breaks" over the course of the day, either at work or with family/friends/neighbors.

People Magazine's 2018 'Sexiest Chef Alive' features 3 D.C. finalists

Get ready for a lot of "heating up the kitchen" jokes my friends, because according to People Magazine, D. C. chefs are HOT, HOT, HOT! In an effort to push the sexy boundaries beyond Hollywood, the magazine has added a sub-feature to their popular "Sexiest Man Alive" issue and named 10 finalists as the "Sexiest Chefs Alive. " This year, D. C. has not one, but THREE familiar names on the list: Johnny Spero, who just opened Reverie in Georgetown (and became a dad!

Restaurant Rumblings: Reverie comes to Georgetown plus seasonal dishes

The D. C. food scene is constantly evolving, and it can be hard for even the biggest food fan to keep up. Restaurant Rumblings is here to get you up to speed on the latest bar and restaurant news, from hot openings to exciting new menus. New on the menu:The refined-yet-relaxed Westend Bistro (1190 22nd St. NW) is embracing some of the season's best produce on its new menu.

#RocktheRed with 7 cocktails made with Jägermeister, the official shot of the Caps

Have you heard? That herbal liqueur in the green bottle that we all threw back in college is now an official partner of the NHL. Not only that, several teams including our beloved Caps are getting into the fun with local sponsorships and promotions. “Our fans will enjoy the ice cold herbal liqueur they love with the unparalleled experience of the NHL,” said Chris Pedy, Mast-Jägermeister U. S. Chief Marketing Officer, in a recent press release.

5 new restaurants to try right now

In this city, you can barely blink without missing a hot new restaurant opening, and this month has seen the realization of some of 2018’s most-anticipated spots. This handful of newbies might run the gamut from Jewish to Italian to American, but they all have one thing in common—established local chefs branching out and taking their cooking to the next level. Here are five new places to try when someone says, “Where should we go for dinner? ”

15 Halloween Movies - and their Cocktail Counterparts

If you’re anything like me, October means one thing: scary movies. Every year I designate a dozen or so nights throughout the month for my family to watch preassigned horror movies. It’s a heavily curated calendar, and I put extreme thought into which films I want to use to scar my poor husband.

Eat your veggies and support local farmers by joining a CSA this fall

Let's start from the very beginning. What even is a CSA? CSA stands for Community Supported Agriculture. It's a model used by local farmers or co-ops to encourage their communities to buy and eat in-season local produce. Basically, at the beginning of a season, members pay for their "share. " Then, over the course of the season members receive fresh produce grown on that farm weekly or biweekly.

Are Caesar salads making a comeback?

When talking about a recent meal with a food editor friend of mine, she asked in a shocked tone, “You ordered a Caesar salad?! ” A year or so ago, I might have reacted with the same raised eyebrows. The ubiquitous salad is what you order when you want to play it absolutely safe, like at a train station fast-food joint or when your great aunt drags you to a Ruby Tuesday.

Get an insider's look at the 7th annual Chefs for Equality gala

The "deliciously defiant" evening raised $300,000 for the HRC Foundation.

Get a taste of a new cookbook celebrating the bounty of Montgomery County

Though it’s adjacent to the urban sprawl of D. C. , Montgomery County boasts a verdant patchwork of thriving farming enterprises. Currently, there are more than 800 farms and horticultural ventures – from growers and gardeners, to ranchers and shepherds, to beekeepers and brewers. What is happening today can be traced back to the region’s colonial roots.

Learn all about mezcal and tequila at this private cocktail class

Start your Saturday on a high note and join DC Refined for a private cocktail class at one of the Wharf's stunning rooftop bars, Whiskey Charlie, on Saturday, October 20 from 1-2 p. m. We are continuing our popular summer classes into fall, and this time we will be learning the basics of tequila and mezcal!

5 delectable D.C. dishes to eat right now

The best bites of the moment aren’t always found at the newest spots. There might be a recently appointed chef at an old favorite who is creating exciting dishes, a seasonal menu change at your favorite bar or a new twist on a popular dish at an oldie-but-goodie. So, while you’re plotting how to get in to the new hotspot, consider checking out these enticing new offerings around town.

If you love meat sweats, you'll love Epic Curing charcuterie

Early this year, when owners Josh Saltzman and Chris Powers shuttered Kangaroo Boxing Club – their Columbia Heights bar specializing in barbecue – they were left with a hefty memento: an 800-pound Southern Pride smoker. Rather than let the wood-fired, gas-assisted beast become “the world’s heaviest paperweight,” as Powers jokingly puts it, the duo decided to finally get serious about the craft charcuterie company they’d been discussing since 2013.

5 nice restaurants that won’t give you side eye for bringing kids

If you want to dine out with your children, you don’t need to eat at a fast food joint, or one with an arcade. Some of the best restaurants in D. C. happily accept pint-sized diners. Here are five to check out the next time you want to treat yourselves and junior to a memorable meal. Rose’s Luxury. Let an adult stand in line at the Barracks Row trailblazer, so the kids don’t get bored or fussy before they even sit down to eat.

Restaurant Rumblings: St. Anselm opens, pizza comes to The Wharf and more

The D. C. food scene is constantly evolving, and it can be hard for even the biggest food fan to keep up. Restaurant Rumblings is here to get you up to speed on the latest bar and restaurant news, from hot openings to exciting new menus. New on the menu:Dolcezza's location at The Wharf (99 District Sq. SW) has added a pair of craveable savory sandwiches to its seasonal menu. Start the day with a breakfast burger topped with fried egg, cheese, bread and butter pickles and a sweet pepper aioli.

D.C. is the 6th best coffee city in America

With National Coffee Day just around the corner (it's Saturday, just in case you need to prepare) we have the perfect excuse to talk about one of our favorite things of all time. Java. Joe. Brew. Wakey Juice. Thing that DC Refined Runs On. COFFEE! This delicious elixir of the gods has gone from a patriotic drink choice during the revolutionary war to a beverage consumed 2. 2 billion times a day worldwide.

Curious Foods: Radiator's bucatini and Impossible 'meatballs'

Executive chef Jonathan Dearden is a self-proclaimed carnivore, and his global tapas-style menu at Radiator features a plenty of dishes to satisfy meat eaters. And while he does prepare a healthy number of dishes for vegetarians, meat substitutes always had him skeptical. That changed on a recent trip to Los Angeles, where he stopped off at a vegan restaurant serving a spicy "meatball" pizza so good he couldn't believe it wasn't beef.

7 over-the-top dishes at D.C. restaurants

We know that springing for a bowl of ramen that doesn't come in an orange packet or a six-pack of imported beer can sometimes feel like a stretch to the old wallet. Want to see how the other half lives? Click through these photos, which include the city's most luxe burrito, most decadent seafood tower and the most daring way to dig on some pig—with price tags to match. Let's call it .... aspirational dining. At the very least, it's a feast for your eyes.

Succotash chef turns up the Asian flavors at Mr Lee's pop-up

Fans of Chef Edward Lee's Southern dishes at Succotash might be interested to know that the Top Chef alum has opened a new pop-up that serves as an homage to his Korean heritage and Asian night markets. To find this hidden restaurant, head to the back of the expansivePenn Quarter eatery, climb the stairs and meander through the door under the neon pink sign that reads "Mr Lee's. "

From grape to glass: Inside District Winery's harvest season

12 indulgent foie gras preparations to luxe up your life

When you want to treat yourself to the epitome of indulgence, order foie gras. Chefs are playfully putting stellar spins on the luxe liver to create decadent dishes that are truly foie-some. MirabelleA duo of tiny tacos feature sweet shells forged from dried bananas. They’re filled with foie gras parfait, gooseberry preserves and pistachios to add another toothsome texture. Definitely not your average Crunchy Taco Supreme. OccidentalThe Presidential Burger has all of the things on it.

Five life lessons from José Andrés' book tour

He's already back on the road, feeding victims of Hurricane Florence

Michelin awards a local restaurant three stars in 2019 guide

Forget little black dresses, today is all about a little red book that is also known to stir up some drama. Last week wediscussed the 39 restaurants recognized on Michelin's Bib Gourmand list, but today we are talking stars! And to mark the third D. C. Michelin Guide release, we finally have a three-star restaurant to brag about.

#DCFoodPorn is the most satisfying way to pick your next meal

Warning: Don't click on this when you're hungry.

Restaurant Rumblings: Peruvian cooking, a new raw bar and more dining news

The D. C. food scene is constantly evolving, and it can be hard for even the biggest food fan to keep up. Restaurant Rumblings is here to get you up to speed on the latest bar and restaurant news, from hot openings to exciting new menus. Recent openings: Pisco y Nazca. (1823 L St. NW)A branch of the Miami-based Pisco y Nazca has opened in D. C. , bringing its modern Peruvian cooking and cocktails.

Peek inside the oldest restaurant in D.C., Old Ebbitt Grill

12 places to try a cooking class around the DMV

When you’re not hangry and in a hurry, cooking can be an exhilarating and rewarding experience. Even more so when you’re learning a new technique to add to your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or a newbie with a knife, it’s easy to find a cooking class that suits your tastes. Most classes cater to all skill levels and each of the schools have a wide curriculum, so the world is your oyster. The best part?

19 D.C. restaurants added to Michelin's 2019 Bib Gourmand list

Can you smell the anxiety in D. C. kitchens right now? It's Michelin time once again, and September 6 marked the release of the 2019 Bib Gourmand list, with 19 newcomers added and two restaurants removed. Given that last year's list only included three additions and no subtractions, it looks like Michelin season is already off to a more exciting start! Could this mean a three-star ranking is eminent?