We're so excited for the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics, starting this Friday, July 26th, with a spectacular opening ceremony on the Seine. Over 10,000 athletes from more than 200 countries will float down the Parisian River. The Games will run for just over two weeks, concluding with the closing ceremony on Sunday, August 11th. Whether you're watching gymnastics, water polo, or breaking, take advantage of our ongoing list of where to watch and what to eat and drink. Astro Doughnuts & Fried Chicken: In honor of this year’s Olympic Games, Astro Doughnuts will offer a ½ dozen box of Olympic themed doughnuts. Included in the box are 3 doughnuts filled with black cherry jam, finished with a cream cheese glaze, and adorned with Olympic-themed ring and medal decorations. The remaining 3 doughnuts are filled with peach compote and finished with cream cheese glaze and decorations. The boxes are available for pre-order through August 1st and are available for $32 at both the Downtown DC and Shirlington locations; Multiple Locations. For more information, click here.Barrel Oak Winery: Join Barrel Oak Winery for a golden (and silver) opportunity to savor the finest wines that have earned top honors in prestigious competitions. For $20, toast to champions with a special tasting event featuring 5 exceptional wines: Sauvignon Blanc '22, Seyval Blanc '21, Vidal Blanc '21, Rosé '22, Syrah '21; 540.364.6402. 3623 Grove Lane, Delaplane, VA. For more information, click here.Bluejacket: Join Bluejacket for daytime viewing specials during the Olympics from Friday, July 26th - Sunday, August 11th, 11:00 a.m.  - 5:00 p.m. Enjoy $8 sausages, $9 frozens, and $10 liters while you cheer on your favorite athletes; 202.524.4862. 300 Tingey Street SE. For more information, click here.Bresca: Beverage Director Will Patton is in full Olympic mode. Bresca is supporting and honoring this year’s Olympians by offering a new reimagined drink menu, prepared just for the 2024 games, based on each event.Get those Michael Norman vibes on with the Fastest Man Alive ($16), or cheer on USA gymnastics while saluting the Magnificent Seven ($16), or sip on the Believe in the Impossible; 202.518.7926. 1906 14th Street NW. For more information, click here.Central Michel Richard: The French-American Bistro, Central Michel Richard, is celebrating the Olympics in style by streaming the games live. To enhance the experience, they are offering complimentary Parisian snacks and starting happy hour specials at 1:30 p.m; 202.626.0015. 1001 Pennsylvania Avenue NW. For more information, click here.Commodore: Commodore is celebrating the Olympics with special French and American offerings throughout the games. Enjoy drink specials like The Olympic, French 75 served on draft, and Gold Medal Jell-o Shots. For food, savor the Monte Cristo, Poutine Steak Frites, and Crab Dip Pretzel; 202.525.5309. 1636 17th Street NW. For more information, click here.Cranes: Cranes invites guests to get into the Olympic spirit with exclusive specials at the bar from Friday, July 26th - Sunday, August 11th. Enjoy the Full Cranes Happy Hour every day from 12:00 - 8:00 p.m., featuring a special cocktail, the Golden Dream, for just $9. This delightful drink blends seasonal yuzu, vodka & apricot liqueur, capturing the essence of summer; 202.525.4900. 724 9th Street NW. For more information, click here.Duke's Grocery Foggy Bottom: Duke's Grocery Foggy Bottom will be running its 12:00 - 7:00 p.m. happy hour specials, featuring $7 select beers / wines and $7 rail spirits. During the Olympic Games, they are also offering a Buy 5, Get 1 Free drink card. Guests who purchase 5 drinks will receive a 6th for free. Offer is valid only at Duke's Grocery's Foggy Bottom; 202.733.3967. 2000 Pennsylvania Avenue NW. For more information, click here.Fairmont DC: Fairmont DC is transforming its Lobby and Loggia into the Olympic Headquarters from Friday, July 26th - Sunday, August 11th. Guests can watch Olympians on large screen televisions while enjoying specialty cocktails and French fare crafted by Executive Chef Jaimie Montes de Oca. Featured dishes include Croque Monsieur, Pissaladière, and Paris Brest. Cocktails are available for $18 each. No reservations are necessary. The Lobby and Loggia are open from 2:00 - 10:00 p.m. (Sunday-Thursday) and 1:00 - 11:00 p.m. on (Friday-Saturday); 202.429.2400.  2401 M Street NW. For more information, click here.The Golden Age: The Golden Age is serving up a special cocktail in honor of the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. The “Abra Cadaver” is a righteously uplifting cocktail that puts a coffee-infused spin on the “Death in the Afternoon” — an Ernest Hemingway classic from the Paris bar that famously carries his name in memory, Bar Hemingway. This invigorating blend of Caffe Borghetti, proper French Absinthe, and coffee brings together the bold richness of roasted coffee beans with the elegance of absinthe and a fragrant emulsion sitting afloat. Perfect for those who crave a touch of darkness in their glass; 1726 Connecticut Avenue NW. For more information, click here.Lapop: Lapis’s underground lounge in Adams Morgan is celebrating the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris with a specialty cocktail offering running Monday, July 1st through the end of August. The “Afghan in Paris” ($16) is inspired by the classic French dessert, Bananas Flambe, and is made with Pierre Ferrand 1840 Cognac, Pierre Ferrand Dry Curacao, Tempus Fugit Creme de Banana, and cardamom bitters. The Old Fashioned-style cocktail makes for a boozy but fruity bev that’ll make you feel like you’re celebrating the summer games in the city of lights; 202.299.9630. 1847 Columbia Road NW. For more information, click here.Last Call Bar: Last Call Bar presents "Games Wide Open!" Celebrate the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics at Last Call Bar, an inclusive watering hole. Starting Sunday, July 26th, cheer for the USA team with a circle of five drinks inspired by the Olympic ring symbol. Enjoy festive concoctions such as the Olympic Torch, Track Star Martini, Beam Queen, and more! Don't miss the Medal Count (3 Jell-O Shots sprinkled with gold, silver, and bronze luster dust). The Olympic Menu will be available daily from July 26th to August 11th; 1301-A 4th Street NE. For more information, click here.Lutèce: In honor of the Paris olympics, Lutèce’s Bar Manager Megan Coyle has created three new cocktails that will be available throughout the games from Friday, July 26th - Sunday, August 11th. Each cocktail takes inspiration from French cocktail culture and a bronze, silver, or gold base spirit. The Gold cocktail features a golden calvados brandy and is complemented by laurel liquor, Meyer lemon, and ginger. The Silver cocktail, which takes inspiration from the color of the Cantarelle gin, also features yuzu liquor, pineau des charentes, dem, and ginger bitters. And the Bronze cocktail features a bronze-colored Maison Rouge brandy as its base with lime, GF, salted honey, and angostura bitters; 202.333.8830. 1522 Wisconsin Avenue NW. For more information, click here.Michele’s: You can nosh on tasty French food that represents many of the regions from France, courtesy of Chef Matt Baker in the heart of downtown DC specifically prepared for this year’s Parisian games. Dishes include: Frisee au Lardon, Pickled Vegetable Ratatouille and Saucissons, served with Lyonnaise Crackers or  Potato and Black Truffle Tarte Flambee, and seasonal Peaches and Cream Tart with Lemon Verbena Ice Cream; 202.758.0895. 1201 K Street NW. For more information, click here.Petite Cerise: Just in time for the summer Olympics, acclaimed Chef Jeremiah Langhorne has launched a $58 prix fixe menu featuring dishes inspired by the south of France and North Africa. Enjoy dishes prepared with classic French technique, a cheese cart service, and an exclusive French wine list and specialty cocktails. Dish highlights include “Farm Egg Omelette”, “Chesapeake Striped Bass En Croute” and more; 202.977.4550. 1027 7th Street NW. To make a reservation, click here.Philippe Chow: As Team USA heads to Paris, Philippe Chow is championing in style with a shimmering Wagyu Beef wrapped in gold leaf, served alongside the restaurant’s signature Lobster Fried Rice. Priced at $75, this exclusive dish also benefits the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Foundation with 50% of each dish donated. Available from Friday, July 26th -  Sunday, August 11th; 202.601.8888. 635 Wharf Street SW. For more information, click here.Purple Patch: For the duration of the Olympic games, Purple Patch is offering 5 "Olympic Bowls" and a "Filipino French 75." The $16 Purple Patch Olympic Bowls options are Spicy Adobo Fried Chicken Bowl, Eggplant Adobo Bowl, Lechon Kawali Bowl, Tapa Bowl, and Tocino Bowl. The $12 Filipino French 75 features Purple Patch Gin; 202.299.0022. 3155 Mount Pleasant Street NW. For more information, click here.Taffer’s Tavern: Looking for the perfect spot to watch the Olympics in DC? Check out Taffer’s Tavern at. With excellent happy hour specials, it's an ideal gathering place for enjoying the games. Happy hour includes $3 off cocktails, $6 beer pints, $10 glasses of house white / red wine, and 1/2 off select wine bottles. These deals are available Monday to Thursday from 3:00 p.m. - close, Friday from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. / 9 p.m. - close, and Saturday to Sunday from 9:00 p.m. - close; 202.984.7237. 700 6th Street NW. For more information, click here for more.Thirsty Cow: Cheer on your favorite teams and watch all of the Olympic coverage in Thirsty Crow’s cool basement bar, and nosh on cocktails and Chef James Wozniuk’s Fried “Olympic Rings,” made with Tempura batter, Tamarind salt, and Curry Ketchup; 202.730.2295. 3400 11th Street NW. For more information, click here.

Well, that was fun ... and exhausting ... and exhilarating ... and just, you know, everything. Another RAMMY Awards on the books. I have so much love, respect, and admiration for this community, and I am so grateful that I get to be a part of the celebration. This year's awards were extra special. First, I surprised New Restaurant of the Year winner Chef James Branch of Ellie Bird with a $25k digital partnership with Clear Channel AND, I was able to give the Best Cocktail Program of the Year Award to Silver Lyan in the Riggs Hotel (and Sam Nellis! Bursting with pride is an understatement).  And all the 2024 RAMMYS Awards Winners are:  -New Restaurant of the Year: Ellie Bird-Cocktail Program of the Year: Silver Lyan-Rising Culinary Star of the Year: Masako Morishita, Perry's-Beer Program of the Year: Zinnia-Wine Program of the Year: Apero-Employee of the Year: Michael Wyatt, Annabelle Restaurant-Manager of the Year: Victoria Gradia, KNEAD Hospitality + Design-Service Program of the Year: Reveler's Hour-Casual Restaurant of the Year: La Famosa-Upscale Casual Restaurant of the Year: Lutèce-Pastry Chef or Baker of the Year: Rochelle Cooper, The Duck & The Peach-Formal Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year: Causa/Amazonia-Chef of the Year: Angel Barreto, Anju-Restaurateur of the Year: Kyle Bailey, Jon Ball, Jeremy Carman, Gavin Coleman, and Paul Holder, Long Shot Hospitality-Favorite Gathering Place: Mi Vida (Publicly Voted)-Best Brunch: Duke's Counter (Publicly Voted) -Best Bar: Bar Chinois (Publicly Voted)-Favorite Fast Bites: Fava Pot (Publicly Voted)-Hottest Sandwich Shop: Colada Shop (Publicly Voted) Such an epic evening. Congratulations to all the winners.  

MITA is a groundbreaking vegetable-focused restaurant founded by chefs Miguel Guerra and Tatiana Mora. You may remember it as a pop-up before MITA became a permanent fixture at 804 V St NW, where it offers an exciting menu of Latin American flavors. Drawing on their Latin American heritage, Guerra and Mora have crafted a unique culinary experience that highlights vegetables via a 14-course tasting menu. Chefs Miguel & Tatiana are changing the conversation on plant based dining.   Having dined at their beautiful establishment, we were so excited to sit down with them and ask a few questions. Redefining Latin American Cuisine with a Vegetable-Forward Approach a Q&A with Chef Miguel Guerra and Chef Tatiana Mora of MITA Q: Chef Miguel, can you tell us about the inspiration behind MITA and its focus on vegetable-centric dishes?Miguel Guerra: The inspiration for MITA comes from our deep-rooted Latin American heritage and a desire to reimagine the way people perceive vegetables. Traditionally, Latin American cuisine often centers around animal proteins, but we saw an opportunity to highlight the incredible potential of vegetables. At MITA, we celebrate the rich tapestry of Latin American flavors and the vegetable kingdom, from vibrant fruits and vegetables to rich oils, whole grains, legumes, beans, seeds, and nuts. Our menu is designed to showcase nature's beauty, elevating what are typically considered side ingredients to the main attraction. Q: Chef Tatiana, can you explain the concept of holistic cooking and how it is integrated into MITA's culinary approach?Tatiana Mora: Holistic cooking at MITA is about more than just the ingredients; it's about a philosophy that nourishes both the body and the soul. We focus on sourcing locally and sustainably, respecting the integrity of each ingredient.  Q: Miguel, could you describe some standout dishes on MITA's tasting menu and how they highlight Latin American vegetables?Miguel Guerra: One of our standout dishes is the Asado Negro Terrine, which draws inspiration from a classic Venezuelan preparation and the beauty of Latin American mangroves. This dish features local-grown mushrooms, seasonal greens, and tubers, creating a vibrant and wholesome culinary masterpiece. Another highlight are the Arepas , presented with a trio of sauces that elevate this traditional Venezuelan bite. The Guasacaca brings a herbal freshness, the Suero adds a delightful kick with spiced oil, and the tropical fruit-based spread offers a unique twist. Our dessert, inspired by the Uyuni Salt Flat in Bolivia, features local flavors that transport diners to this breathtaking landscape, creating a memorable finale to the meal. Q: Tatiana, how does MITA's approach to vegetables cater to both carnivores and vegetable lovers?Tatiana Mora: At MITA, we believe in creating a dining experience that appeals to everyone, regardless of dietary preferences. Our vegetable-centric dishes are crafted with such depth of flavor and creativity that they satisfy even the most devoted carnivores. We use a variety of cooking techniques and seasonings to bring out the best in each vegetable, ensuring that every dish is both hearty and satisfying. By focusing on the natural richness of our ingredients, we create meals that are fulfilling and delicious, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the incredible flavors of Latin America. Q: Miguel, what role does sustainability play in MITA's beverage program?Miguel Guerra: at the core of MITA's beverage program. Our wine list emphasizes biodynamic, organic, and sustainably farmed wines, with a special focus on Latin American regions. This not only supports environmentally responsible practices but also introduces our guests to unique and diverse wine selections. Our cocktail offerings celebrate Latin American spirits and ingredients, with options for non-alcoholic and low-alcohol cocktails to ensure everyone can enjoy a refreshing and culturally rich drinking experience. Q: Tatiana, how do you hope MITA will impact the Washington, D.C. dining scene and its approach to vegetables?Tatiana Mora: We hope that MITA will inspire a shift in the way people perceive and enjoy vegetables in their meals. By showcasing the versatility and richness of Latin American vegetables, we aim to demonstrate that plant-based dishes can be just as exciting and satisfying as those centered around animal proteins. Our goal is to cultivate a deeper appreciation for holistic eating, where food nourishes not just the body but also the spirit. We invite our guests to join us on this culinary journey and experience the vibrant flavors and cultural heritage that MITA has to offer. Q: Finally, what can diners expect when they visit MITA?Miguel Guerra: Diners can expect a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere where every dish is a celebration of Latin American flavors and the incredible potential of vegetables. Our tasting menus offer a journey through the diverse and rich culinary heritage of Latin America, with each dish carefully crafted to highlight locally sourced ingredients. From the moment they step into MITA, guests will be treated to an unforgettable dining experience that showcases the beauty and versatility of vegetables in a way they've never seen before.

 Summertime, and the livin' is easy... Join us as we delve into the lively DC culinary scene. We savor all the seasonal delights and have the 411 on the latest menus prepared by your local faves - and maybe some there’s a name or two that’s new to you. We are ready for some summer refreshments — you?  NEW & NOTEWORTHY: Northern Italian Flavors: Ama is a new all-day dining concept from husband-and-wife hospitality veterans Micah Wilder & Johanna Hellrigl embodying the essence of Northern Italy. An indoor-outdoor caffè and Genovese-style focacceria by day, Ama transforms into an aperitivo bar over the course of the afternoon and convivial restaurant by night. Hellrigl focuses on food’s ability to improve well-being and provide nourishment through the sourcing of whole, minimally processed ingredients such as unrefined sugars, grass-fed-and-finished meats, and regeneratively-farmed produce. Hellrigl aims to add to the typical American’s experience of Italian food, which predominantly leans toward Southern Italian flavors and dishes. The menu at Ama introduces signature Northern Italian flavors through ingredients such as chestnut flour, juniper, borage, and foraged bitter greens. The menu leans towards Ligurian seafood and coastal flavors in the spring and summer, before transitioning into the hearty comforts of Alto Adige in the fall and winter. Open for aperitivo and stuzzichini service Tuesday through Saturday from 4:00 to 6:00 pm, and dinner from 5:00 to 9:00 pm. Sunday, Monday and caffè service will follow in the coming weeks. 885 New Jersey Avenue SE; amarestaurant.bar AP x Shilling = delicious: All Purpose's Chefs Mike Friedman and Reid Shilling have collaborated on a seasonal pie featuring Shilling Canning Company's jarred tomatoes (a mix of Roma tomatoes from Fireside Farm in Western Loudoun County and Karma Farm's Sunrise Sauce Tomatoes from Monkton, MD). Reid peels, packs, and processes all product by hand; in turn, Mikey uses it as the base for the ultimate summer pizza called Shilling Reid’s tomatoes, mozz, fresh ricotta, summer herbs, pickled sweet & Calabrian chilis, toasted sesame, chili honey. allpurposedc.comHen quarter Not Pen: Thompson Hospitality, just announced its official opening of Hen Quarter Prime – a more upscale, grown-up version of the Hen Quarter many know and love in Virginia’s Old Town. The menu presents some of the same celebrated Southern fare such as Buttermilk Fried Chicken and Waffles with several new additions and a new Grande Buffet Brunch on Sundays. 2121 1st Street SW; henquarter.comCategory: Cools You Off: The dessert of the summer has been anointed: Tonari’s kakigori, the delicate, cooling shaved ice treat that is as refreshing as it is artful. Kuramoto slowly freezes the ice, layer by layer over 72 hours, to achieve a certain level of purity and clarity. Needing to be tempered—Tonari exposes the ice blocks to a warmer temperature for periods of time before shaving the cube on the machine—the result is fluffy and airy. This is one of the critical techniques in making kakigori: If the ice block is too cold, the ice becomes more brittle. Instead, imagine kakigori is the iced version of cotton candy. Tonari’s kakigori flavors include: strawberry (ichigo), green tea (matcha), coffee, watermelon and wafu Italian ice, which is flavored with lemon and Calpico syrups. The syrups feature fresh seasonal fruits and dairy bases. 707 6th St NW; tonaridc.comCaviar hour (need we say more): Apéro, the multi-award winning modern French restaurant, champagne and caviar bar in Georgetown, is expanding hours for its “Caviar Hour” this  summer. From tuesday through Friday, you can enjoy Happy Hour pricing for Caviar and Champagne pairings run from $44 - $128 for 2 people. Martinis and a selection of wine by the glass are available for $9, and snacks like potato chips and deviled eggs, pickles, and olives are $5. 2622 P Street; aperodc.comPopsicle Pop Up: Hank’s Oyster Bar is kicking off a Pop(sicle) Pop up at Q Street, its hidden indoor/outdoor bar. The menu will feature ice cream truck/popsicle inspired décor and cocktails (think Flintstones Push Pop and Good Humor inspired frozen drinks), and of summer vibey music. 1624 Q Street; hanksoysterbar.comMi casa su casa: Mi Casa has undergone a transformation into a quick-service taqueria and cantina. The new operating hours will be from 11:30 am to 8pm daily, with a special happy hour offering Monday to Friday from 3 pm to 6 pm. The menu features signature tacos, including Korean Fried Chicken, Butter Chicken, Smashburger, Seared Ahi Tuna, and classic favorites such as Al Pastor, Pollo al Carbon, Carnitas, and Beef Birria. Border Classics will remain with items such as their Fajitas, Burritos, and Quesadillas. The beverage menu will continue to rely on an extensive tequila collection and a strong Mexican influence where you can Indulge in a variety of margaritas, tropical cocktails, and a diverse selection of mezcals. 1647 20th Street; micasa-mexico.comNomadic Moves: Immigrant Food is opening their first location outside of DC in Ballston. Director and Executive Chef, Japanese American Chef Ben Murray, on display. Chef Ben brings a fresh perspective to the full service restaurant with recognizable yet unique shareable favorites like Fried Chicken w/ a Filipino twist or a Miso Caesar Salad. For the location, Immigrant Food intentionally chose a location at the global headquarters of The Nature Conservancy. Immigrant Food will honor that partnership with a signature cocktail called "The Kanha," design touches, and several new eco-friendly practices. 4245 N Fairfax Drive; immigrantfood.com100k to Sloppy Mommas BBQ: Arlington’s Sloppy Mama’s BBQ has been announced as the winner of the $100K Pork Chop Challenge at the RAMMYS. The challenge celebrates the finest pork chop dishes in the Capital Beltway area, chosen by the people. This exciting event culminates in awarding a $100,000 prize to the winning restaurant and donating $100,000 worth of pork products to the Capital Area Food Bank. 5731 Langston Boulevard; sloppymamas.comNow an a La Carte Experience: El Cielo is participating in Summer Restaurant Week, offering a delectable three-course menu priced at $65 per person. You are invited to indulge in a curated selection of starters, entrées, and desserts, showcasing the innovative and contemporary Colombian cuisine that El Cielo is renowned for like ceviche, quail and more. 1280 4th St NE; elcielowashington.comThe Perfect Meal: Chef Mike Friedman's beloved All-Purpose restaurants are partaking in RAMW Summer Restaurant Week with special brunch and dinner menus. You can mix and match classic starters like the AP Caesar Salad, Roasted Garlic Knots, and Arancini with a selection of Friedman's deck-oven pies, then finish it off with Tiramisu, Rainbow Cake, and other desserts. allpurposedc.comNon-partisan Dining: Chef David Guas has opened their first full-service restaurant with Neutral Ground Bar + Kitchen. From fire-roasting to baking, each dish on the seasonal menu is touched by fire in some form or another, utilizing Marra Forni wood-burning oven. The Menu celebrates small farmers, heritage growers, and fisherman – regionally, from the Mid-Atlantic and Virginia to the bountiful Gulf Coast. Standout dishes include the NG Caesar with Baby Romaine, crispy Parmesan Crumble, and White Anchovy Filets; The Chop - Wood-fired Bone-in Pork Chop with Whole Grain Mustard Pan Sauce and a Fennel and Green Apple Slaw. 6641 Old Dominion Dr, McLean, VA; neutralgroundbarandkitchen.comMozzarella Fest is Back: Cheestique is hosting the perfect event for cheese lovers. Mozzarella fest will immerse you into the cheese delicacy with events like an online Italian masterclass and an Italian party on the riviera. cheesetique.comCome for the Tennis, Stay for the Michelin Chefs: The Mubadala Citi Open is bringing in unique culinary offerings with Michelin-stared chefs and restaurants providing food at the tournament. As you dine on restaurants like Gravitas and Chef Jose Andres, you can also enjoy off-court experiences like meet & greets with the players. This year’s tournament will showcase culinary offerings from five Michelin-starred chefs, including José Andrés, Patrick O’Connell from The Inn at Little Washington, Michael Rafidi from Albi, The Dabney’s Jeremiah Langhorne and Matt Baker from Gravitas. mubadalacitidcopen.comJaponais Izakaya, Now Open: The team behind Bar Chinois (Dean Mosones, Mark Minicucci, Margaux Donati and Jake Simpson) launched a new izakaya restaurant to provide a sophisticated atmosphere blending Japanese fare and French cocktails. Enjoy dinner and drinks Tuesday through Sunday from 5:00 p.m. to midnight at Bar Japonais, with the kitchen closing at 11:00 p.m. The menu features a fusion of inventive and traditional Japanese cuisine, featuring an array of skewers, appetizers, salads, sashimi, hand rolls, mains, and desserts. 1520 14th Street NW; barjaponaisdc.com  Chef Update: Cicile Mendy at Cork Wine Bar: Cork Wine Bar and Market owners, Diane Gross and Khalid Pitts, have introduced the Logan Circle wine bar’s new executive chef, Cicile Mendy. Chef Cicile is a classically trained chef, having received her culinary education in France with experience at French bistros and hotels in Europe. Most recently, she was the sous chef at Belgian restaurant Et Voilà! in the Palisades neighborhood of Washington, DC. Chef Cicile will focus on dishes that pair expertly with Cork’s selection of sustainable wines from small producers, such as black bass carpaccio with pickled beets, crunchy potatoes and lemon gelée; Duck confit with smashed fingerlings, arugula and orange; and beef tartare with cornichons, capers, shallots and chives. 1805 14th Street NW; corkdc.com Spit & Polish: Georgetown’s Farmers, Fishers, Bakers has recently reopened after renovations throughout the restaurant. Updated seating and design give the restaurant an elegant and elevated feeling throughout. In addition to the main dining room & bar, they’ve built a brand-new dessert & pastry studio. Open year-round, the patio is fully equipped with state-of-the-art heaters, ceiling fans, and retractable sides. Plus, the patio is also available for large parties and private events. With seating for 28 guests and complete with A/V equipment, the private dining room, The Captain’s Proper, can be transformed for any kind of special gathering. Located to the side of the main dining room, this room is cozy, charming, and perfect for birthday parties, graduation dinners, corporate happy hours, and more. wearefoundingfarmers.com Royale with Cheese: La Bohème in Georgetown, the newer concept above Apéro with rotating seasonal tasting menus inspired by groundbreaking artists, launched its latest theme and menu, inspired by the films of Quentin Tarantino. Menu items include nods to “From Dusk Til Dawn” featuring Holy Water & Crosses, watermelon gazpacho, compressed yellow watermelon, jalapeno oil, cilantro oil, garlic crostini crosses, paired with “Father Mortimer's Shotgun” (cucumber melon jus, gin, lemon, sparkling wine, cilantro-chili oil), and “Reservoir Dogs”, featuring Stuck in the Middle with You (heirloom cherry tomatoes, goat cheese cremieux, cucumber & melon granita, hibiscus balsamic reduction), paired with Why Am I Mr. Pink? (fresh tomato-melon lassi, hibiscus vodka, lemon, basil oil drops). 2622 P Street NW; labohemedc.com  Labne Stuffed Croissants Now in Union Market: The Levantine café known for pastries, mezze, wood-fired pita sandwiches, and specialty coffee, Yellow, has opened its Union Market location. In addition to its familiar sweet and savory menu options, Yellow Union Market will open in the evenings to serve “All the Kebabs” from the hearth grill. Just as the (not) Pizza menu is only available in Georgetown, when it launches later this summer, “All the Kebabs” will be a unique offering for Union Market available for walk-ins and reservation seating. With the charcoal grill at its heart, highlights will include steel-skewered offerings like leg of lamb with dill yogurt marinade, bavette steak with chermoula yogurt, grape leaf swordfish, and amba chicken with fermented mango. Accenting the grilled items will be sides like red shatta cucumbers, beet pickled turnips, and spreads and condiments. Led by coffee director Ayat Elhag, the hot beverage list blends creative, Levantine-inspired specialty drinks with intentionally sourced Counter Culture coffee. 417 Morse St NE; yellowthecafe.com  #100KPorkChopChallenge Finalists: The Virginia Pork Council, along with the Iowa Pork Producers Association, North Carolina Pork Council, National Restaurant Association, and Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington, has announced the top five finalists for the #100kPorkChop Challenge. After weeks of voting from the public, the People's Pork Chop Awards finalists are: Dauphine’s, Death Punch Bar, Miss Toya’s Southern Kitchen, Rasika West End, and Sloppy Mama’s BBQ. The finalists then advanced to the final judging round, where culinary professionals and pork producers will evaluate their dishes. The competition winner will be announced at the 42nd RAMMY Awards Gala on July 21. The winning restaurant will receive a grand prize of $100,000, and an additional $100,000 worth of pork products will be donated to the Capital Area Food Bank, highlighting the competition’s commitment to fighting hunger and supporting the local community. More details can be found here. Packing a picnic? Check out our list of all the best spots to find provisions to fill your basket, here. Cool summertime ice cream recs: Check out our list of favorites, here.NOT NEW, BUT NOTEWORTHY: Pranzo alla Romana: Mikey Friedman's Roman restaurant, Aventino, has launched a new lunch special. Pair any lunch pasta with your choice of two Lazio, IT wines by-the-glass for just $30. Pastas include tonnarelli cacio e pepe, mafalde alla Liguria, rigatoni carbonara, lumache all’amatriciana, and spaghetti limone. The new 'Pranzo alla Romana' special is available alongside the full a la carte lunch menu. 4747 Bethesda Avenue, Bethesda; aventinocucina.com Shop Outdoors: The TPSS Co-Op (Tacoma Park Silver Spring Co - Op) grocery store has moved it's operation outside to enjoy the weather. The tent will be open from 8-9pm with a large selection of produce, bulk items and more. tpss.coopDining with Dignity: Little Miner taco has opened in Rockville Town Center with a new initiative to help pay off student meal debt for students in Montgomery County. Little Miner taco will donate 100% of the proceed of kids meals to MCPS meal debt program. 39 Maryland Avenue; littleminertaco.comFire Fridays: Experience live fire cooking from Michelin-starred Chef Chris Morgan on the patio at MayBar at Joon. The menu will consist of seasonal specials alongside steaks and kebabs made to order on the custom grill. The menu will be available outside and inside from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. 8045 Leesburg Pike, Vienna, VA; themaybar.com  Midday Menu: Elevate your afternoons at Josephine with their new midday menu available weekday afternoons. Pair happy hour drinks with snacks like the salted nut mix and Castelvetrano olives. Indulge in hors d’oeuvres such as Wagyu steak tartare with capers and quail egg, onion soup granitée, and escargot in puff pastry. Follow up with steak frites, or the burger Josephine with bacon & onion jam. 109 South Saint Asaph Street, Alexandria; josephineoldtown.com Brunch with Your Pup: During weekend brunch on their covered patio, JOY by Seven Reasons offers a popular "Yappy Hour" so the whole family can enjoy. This pup friendly menu from Michelin-starred Chef Enrique Limardo and Chef William Morles includes fun options like mini Burgers, a tropical pupsicle (Coconut milk, pineapple, orange and mango), a watermelon strawberry mint frosty, and salmon with rice and veggies. For humans, their Venezuelan + broader Latin American brunch menu has favorites like corn pancakes, guava cheesecake waffles, and their famous colossal short rib sandwich. sevenreasonsgroup.com  Lunch Bunch (Lunch Alert): Bourbon Steak has launched a special lunch menu, curated by executive chef Quentin Welch. For $32, you can enjoy a burger or sandwich with a side, zero proof cocktail, and a sweet treat to finish. Choose from several burgers and sandwiches, like the renowned Wagyu Double Burger, or have your fill with the Slider Trio, featuring prime steak, heritage turkey, and quinoa sliders. Opt for the leafy mixed green salad or go for the crispy malt vinegar fries on the side. Sip on a zero proof cocktail by lead bartender Engidawork Alebachew, like the West Indian Limeade, and finish with their beloved ice cream sandwich. 2800 Pennsylvania Avenue NW; bourbonsteakdc.com Focaccia, Please: James Beard semifinalist Mike Friedman has opened a new Italian café and market, Fossette Focacceria. The new all-day concept showcases a tight menu of Italian-inspired breakfast items, pastries, and sandwiches on housemade focaccia alongside espresso drinks featuring Coava Coffee Roasters (the only location in the District to carry the roaster) and a market stocked with pantry goods, cookbooks, canned beers, wines, and more. Fossette Focacceria is adjacent to the group’s original All-Purpose Pizzeria location and will eventually sell Friedman’s signature AP Caesar dressing, tomato sauce, “dippies,” and more from the beloved pizzeria’s menu. The menu is inspired by traditional focaccerie in Italy; the café and market will feature sweet and savory colazione (breakfast) menu items from 8:00 to 11:00 a.m.; Focaccia sandwiches will be available from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 1250 9th Street NW; fossettedc.com The Latest Dinner Club: From the co-founders of Residents Cafe and Bar, River Club invites you to embark on an adventure through the flavors of Lebanon, Italy, and Spain. From mezze style plates to craft cocktails, River Club is designed for comfortable elegance with completely custom furniture and bespoke design elements. riverclubdc.com Get Crackin’: For $99 per person, enjoy all you can eat Maryland blue crab, corn on the cob, chicken wings, and French fries for parties of ten or more at Ivy City Smokehouse. Email [email protected] to book your party and get to crackin’. 1356 Okie Street NE; tavern.ivycitysmokehouse.com Up on the Roof: Rooftop Kitchen has added new bites to their summer menu for you to enjoy. Try the Smash burger with two griddled patties, secret sauce and a side of fries. And for dessert, you have to try the Campfire S'mores sundae with ice cream, marshmallows and more. 14 Ridge Square; rooftopkitchendc.comTrès Petite: Acclaimed chef Jeremiah Langhorne and his team have announced that Petite Cerise will offer a four-course prix fixe dinner menu in the dining room for $58 per person. This new menu will highlight and celebrate the wonderful ingredients from within the Mid-Atlantic region, and beyond, skillfully prepared through an entirely new French culinary lens. 1027 7th Street NW; petitecerisedc.com  Quiet, Please…~yay~: In response to some diners’ desire for quieter restaurant experiences, Ceibo is testing lower volume hours at the restaurant. On Sundays during the lunch hours (noon - 3:00 p.m.) and for Sunday 5:00 p.m. dinner reservations, Ceibo will change the music to a quieter, lo-fi playlist, and encourage a quieter atmosphere for a more serene experience. The hours and days may expand, depending on the dining community’s response. Ceibo is a contemporary restaurant and cocktail and wine bar in Adams Morgan, from brothers Manuel and Chef Juan Olivera. Named for the flowers of the ceibo tree, Ceibo draws inspiration from the bustling bar culture of South America’s cosmopolitan cities, Montevideo and Buenos Aires. 2106 18th Street NW; ceibodc.com New & Improved: Duke’s Grocery’s original location in Dupont Circle has officially reopened its doors. Beyond the new foundation and base building systems, upgrades to the historic building Duke’s Grocery has called home since 2013 include the expansion of the kitchen’s capacity and restaurant hood. This allowed the addition of a deep fryer, so the location will now be able to serve French fries along with the award-winning Proper Burger®, while providing more possibilities and flexibility for Executive Chef Greg Heitzig’s culinary team. Draught beer lines were installed in the East London-inspired gastropub, so more “bevvy” options will also be available. 1513 17th Street NW; https://www.dukesgrocery.com Hi-Fi at Evening Star (Brunch Alert): Join Evening Star every weekend for an exciting new brunch experience. Savor the Tex-Mex barbecue flavors that Hi/Fi is famous for, now at Evening Star Cafe. Enjoy your brunch indoors or in the Hi/Fi beer garden. Menu items include yeasted waffle with nutella whipped cream, fried green tomato eggs Benedict, huevos rancheros, and taco salad. eveningstarcafe.net Presto! (Lunch Alert): Visit Corso Italian for a quick and delicious lunch break. Choose any two items from their frequently changing Presto! menu for $22. The menu includes a rotating mix of sandwiches, appetizers, pastas, drinks, and desserts. Get a sandwich and a spritz, a salad and a dessert, a dessert and another dessert…whatever your Italian-loving heart desires. Presto! Menu available at the bar only, from open until 3:00 p.m. daily, including weekends. corsoitalian.square.site Noodles for Days (Brunch Alert): Experience an unlimited-plates-brunch every Saturday and Sunday at Cranes for $62 per person. The menu features a variety of tapas, such as patatas bravas and shrimp tempura, egg dishes such as Oyakodon with chicken & egg and huevos al plato, and ramen selections like vegetarian red miso and seafood. Finish your meal with brown butter churros and Basque cheesecake. 724 9th Street NW; cranes-dc.com   Second Top Slice: Slice & Pie, the New York and Detroit-style pizza shop from Italian-born master Giulio Adriani, was named the second-best slice shop in the United States. The honor comes from the respected organization 50 Top Pizza, an Italian pizza evaluation site in Paestum, Italy, which ranks pizzas across the globe annually. Their U.S. lists are often dominated by New York businesses, making Slice & Pie’s inclusion as a D.C.-based business even more meaningful. Adriani, the mastermind behind several of New York City’s top-rated pizzerias, created a streamlined menu of NY and Detroit-style pies and slices. Current bestsellers include their Detroit-style Pepperoni & Hot Honey, and NY-style Burrata, Meat Lovers, as well as classics, Cheese and Pepperoni. The shop shares a space with Lucy, a bar and restaurant which leans into Adriani’s Neapolitan roots with a menu of authentic pizzas, pastas, spritzes, and more. Adriani’s uncompromising standards of excellence can be found in the pies at both concepts, which feature always fresh, handmade dough and house-made mozzarella. 2221 14th Street NW; 50toppizza.it  

Spring has sprung, so let's raise a glass with delightful drinks of the season. With warming temperatures, we are ready for the refreshing over-ice concoction, and we found you delish libations that promise to add a touch of warmth to your spring evenings: NEW & NOTEWORTHY: In the Pink: Cucina Morini has added two new cocktails to their menu. Try the manhattan with old bardstown bourbon and bitters. Indulge in the pink gin with bombay, lavender syrup and more. 901 4th St NW; cucinamorini.comCelebrate world Baiju Day: Chang Chang is celebrating world Baiju day with the return of their popular madame wong cocktails with rum-infused all-spice. The cocktail is available until August 30th. 1200 19th St NW; changchangdc.comBalkan Bar menu (happy hour alert) : Ambar is hosting a new happy hour with deals on kiwi smashes, sangria, mango lemonade and more cocktails. The new happy hour special is from Monday-Friday from 4pm-6pm. ambarrestaurant.comPremier Whisky: Jack Rose Dining Saloon has opened a new whisky brand called Premier Drams with a special bottle shop and tasting room. Their aged whisky is more than eight years old, and they are currently aging thousands of bottles in their room. jackrosediningsaloon.com Hiraya x Tiki on 18th= Collab: H Street’s newest Filipino dining destination, Hiraya, has launched an all-new beverage program in collaboration with Jo-Jo Valenzuela of Tiki on 18th and The Game Sports Pub. The Partner/Co-owner of Adams Morgan’s popular spot for Filipino cocktails and small plates was tapped by Hiraya’s Chef/Owner, Paolo Dungca, to revamp the restaurant’s beverage program. The program aims to uplift DC’s Filipino cocktail culture. The new menu features tequila bevs inspired by Filipino bands from the early 90s, and strawberry funk frosé served out of ceramic pig mugs. 2411 18th St NW; tikion18th.com$5 martini (and a spritz): Corso Italian is cooling summer off with two new cocktail specials. Enjoy $5 martinis all day for National Spritz day when you order two spritz drinks you will get a bowl of warm olives as a snack. 4024 Campbell Ave, Arlington, VA; corsoitalian.square.siteCarnavales de Oruro: Casa Kantuta is popping up to serve traditional Bolivian cocktails at Bolivian fest in DC. in addition to cocktails you can enjoy folklore performances, Bolivian street food and more. Bolivian fest starts on August 2nd. 1355 U Street; facebook.comArts & Drafts… Get It? (Happy Hour Alert): Calico has introduced a new summer activity for you to enjoy, Arts & Drafts happy hour. You can enjoy self-guided craft activities like finger painting and more along with drink specials from 4-10pm. 50 Blagden Alley NW; calicodc.comNew Coravin Menu: The Urban Grape DC is now pouring wines by the glass and champagne by the glass. Toast the weekend with Opus One from Napa Valley for $20 per ounce, instead of $510 per bottle. Celebrate with half a glass of Dom Perignon for $30, instead of springing for the $400 bottle. These pours and more are available any day, 4-9 PM. dc.theurbangrape.shopNOT NEW, BUT NOTEWORTHY: Century-Old Beer: A new beer is about to hit the market. Researched by Lost Lagers, brewed by  Right Proper Brewing Co. in partnership with the Heurich House, Maerzen beer will be available in August. The historic Maerzen recipe comes from a 1933 entry in the notebook of Paul Kaiser, a Master Brewers’ Association of America member and head brewer at the Chr. Heurich Brewing Co. (1872-1956). Maerzen had been advertised in DC newspapers since 1880. More information here.Fly with Me: Immigrant Food at Planet World just launched their summer cocktail flight. In this flight you can try three of their six new cocktails. Try the stoni negroni and Caribbean festival cocktails with tropical flavors. 925 13th St NW; immigrantfood.comLate Night Alert: Ceibo in Adam's Morgan is opening up a late-night menu full of offerings by customer requests. There will be a new happy hour on Fridays and Saturdays from 10:30 PM - 1 AM in the downstairs bar area. The restaurant will offer small bites and full meals, featured cocktails, and a rotating selection of wine and beer at special prices. 2106 18th street; ceibodc.comA Round of Applause: Bluepoint Hospitality group (known for the restaurants Bas Rouge, The Stewart and The Wardroom) has won the Wine Spectator Award. Beverage Director Natalie Tapken at the Wardroom has taken the establishment to the next level with her wine experiences. 103 N Washington Street; thewardroom.comJosephine Makes Us Happy (Happy Hour Alert): Josephine's has a new a new mid day menu and an extended happy hour for you to enjoy from 2:00 to 6:00 pm. Sip on draft beers like Brasserie Dieu du Ciel and wines for a discount. 1010 Vermont Avenue; josephineoldtown.comHappy All Day: Get the weekend started early at MayBar with all day happy hour specials every Thursday. From 11:30AM-10PM, enjoy signature cocktails such as Vodka Albaloo made with sour cherry syrup and lemon and Tequila Rose with rose syrup, grapefruit and lime. 8045 Leesburg Pike suite 120; themaybar.comThe Grain Experiment: Dram & Grain, from the owners of Jack Rose Dining Saloon, has opened in Adams Morgan with a new pop-up featuring experimental grain drinks. For this opening “Grain Experiment” menu, they were inspired by the bar’s name, infusing different spirits with ancient grains such as buckwheat, farro, quinoa, barley, amaranth and sorghum. 2001 18th Street; Dram & Grain.comJust Peachy: Bourbon Steak has new cocktails to cool you down for summer. Try the call it peach with Aperol. thyme and peach, or try the Mexican solstice with Don Julio Blanco and more. 2800 Pennsylvania Avenue NW; .bourbonsteakdc.comWhine-Not: Ellington Park Bistro has a new initiative for wine lovers on Wednesdays. Discover a world of lively wine flights and immersive dining experiences as they unveil new themes and dishes each month during Wine-Not-Wednesdays. Find new information about wines as you learn about BBQ pairings for bubbly, earth-inspired wines and more. 2033 M Street; ellingtonparkbistro.comWine Club: Lutece has just launched its first-ever wine club. Every month, the team will curate two bottles for you to enjoy. Members can also add expert-approved bottles to their pack. 1522 Wisconsin Ave NW; lutecedc.com Next Door: Stop in for a relaxing drink at L’Annexe with their hand-crafted cocktails this summer. They also create all their own infusions for their cocktails so everything is made fresh. They will be open from 2:00 - 9:00 pm each Sunday. Try their new Newton's Law, features apple infused gin matched with italicus, dry vermouth, apple cider vinegar, bay leaf, vanilla, and absinthe rinse. Adding to the summer cocktail list, Phuket, Let’s Go to Karachi brings together Gin, Aperol, cardamom, cumin, ginger, mango, red chili, and lime. 2917 M Street N; lannexe-bar.comWanda Barcelona Pop Up: Get summer started right with a new pop-up experience at The Willard. The Pop-Up Bar created in partnership with Barcelona-based atelier Wanda Barcelona; s introducing a uniquely designed floral pop-up at Willard’s Lincoln Library adorned with florals and invites even the most discerning cocktail enthusiasts to savor the flavors of specialty botanical-themed cocktails and zero-proof elixirs while playing their favorite tunes at the dedicated Vinyl Listening Station. Tapa-style food pairings are available for guests to indulge in alongside their beverages. The Pop-Up Bar is open from Tuesday through Saturday from June to September. Live music is available every Saturday, starting at 6 p.m. 1401 Pennsylvania Avenue NW; washington.intercontinental.com

Summer is here! And with it, so many fun & exciting ways to celebrate the season. The best way to soak in the sunshine? All these springtime activations:  MUSEUMS:Marcela Hazan x Smithsonian American History Museum: Marking the centennial of Marcella Hazan’s (1924–2013) birth, the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History has received a donation from the family of the influential cookbook author and legendary teacher of regional Italian cuisine in the United States and United Kingdom. Hazan is widely known for her six cookbooks on the cuisines of Italy, published between 1973 and 2004. Her husband Victor Hazan, an authority on Italian food and wine, and son Giuliano, a chef and cooking teacher, donated 20 of her specialized Italian cooking tools, including a passatelli press, garganelli pasta comb, a mattarello for rolling out pasta, her wood cutting board, lasagna pan and her cotton apron to the museum’s food history collections. The donation also includes a selection of her recipe notebooks, written in Italian, that will be housed in the museum’s Archives Center. Hazan immigrated to the United States from Cesenatico, Italy, with her husband in 1955, and they made their home in New York City where she opened a small cooking school in her apartment in 1969 and published her first cookbook, The Classic Italian Cookbook, in 1973. Hazan was the recipient of numerous awards, including the International Association of Culinary Professionals Lifetime Achievement Award (2004), Cavaliere della Stella della Solidarietà Italiana Award (2003) and the James Beard Foundation Lifetime Achievement Award (2000).Constitution Avenue NW, between 12th and 14th streets; americanhistory.si.edu I’ll Have What She’s Having at CJM: The Lillian and Albert Small Capital Jewish Museum is pleased to announce the special exhibition “I’ll Have What She’s Having”: The Jewish Deli, on view at the Museum through Sunday, August 18, 2024. The exhibition, organized by the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles, explores how American Jews imported traditions, adapted culture, and built community through the experience of food. In addition to showing how Jewish deli forged an entirely new, quintessentially American cuisine by combining Central and Eastern European dishes with ingredients abundantly available in the United States, the exhibition traces the larger arc of the Jewish experience in the US during the twentieth century. Find out more information here. Folger Library: The Folger Shakespeare Library has launched a new program called Imprints in Time, the inaugural show in the new special exhibitions gallery. Drawn entirely from the peerless collection of Dayton Ohio Ohio-based collectors Stuart and Mimi Rose, Imprints in Time offers a chance to see a curated display of books and manuscripts that document some of the greatest achievements of writing and creativity across many centuries. Stuart Rose is a widely regarded collector of rare books and manuscripts, and the 52 works on display at the Folger represent the breadth of his collection, covering topics including science, religion, philosophy, literature, and history. More info here. Subversive Skills, Sublime: Fiber Art by Women at the Renwick: The thirty-three artworks in Subversive, Skilled, Sublime: Fiber Art by Women, now open at the Smithsonian American Art Museum’s Renwick Gallery, piece together an alternative history of American art. Accessible and familiar, fiber handicrafts have long provided a source of inspiration for women. Their ingenuity with cloth, threads, and yarn was dismissed by many art critics as menial labor. The artists in Subversive, Skilled, Sublime took up fiber to complicate this historic marginalization and also revolutionize its import to contemporary art. They drew on personal experiences, particularly their vantage points as women, and intergenerational skills to transform humble threads into resonant and intricate artworks. Book visits here. Mother Earth Exhibition at Meridian International Center: The Mother Earth exhibition is drawing importance to real realities that we are facing in this climate crises. The exhibition Mother Earth considers these pressing issues through the vision of women artists. Ranging from drawings, paintings, textiles, works on paper, and photographs to sculptures, installations, and videos, the featured works harness the power of art to evoke emotions, spark conversations, and inspire meaningful action. By confronting this uncomfortable truth through artistic expression, together we can foster a deeper connection to the environment, a greater sense of urgency to protect our natural world, and a more holistic vision for a sustainable future. More info here. Capital Brutalism at National Building Museum: The National Building Museum has opened a provocative new exhibition, Capital Brutalism.  Capital Brutalism pairs beautifully with another new exhibition, Frank Lloyd Wright's Southwestern Pennsylvania (located just across the Great Hall) which presents both realized and unrealized projects from the famed architect. Learn more here. New Worlds: Women to Watch 2024: Now open, the exhibition New Worlds at the National Museum of Women in the Arts highlights the work of 28 visionary artists from around the globe who reimagine past, present and alternate realities at the National Museum of Women in the Arts. Works by the 28 artists featured in New Worlds: Women to Watch 2024 explore these ideas from perspectives that shift across geographies, cultural viewpoints, and time. Learn more here. DMV THEATER: Beautiful: The Carole King Musical at Olney Theater: The Olney Theater is in production for their new musical. Says Olney Theatre Artistic Director Jason Loewith, “The music of Carole King shaped my childhood, and the story of her challenging ascent as one of the premiere songwriters of her era lends this jukebox musical a greater sense of drama and joy than most." You can purchase tickets here and the show runs through August 25th. The Colored Museum at Studio Theatre: Studio Theater is showing ‘The Colored Museum’ on their main stage this summer. The Colored Museum is a provocative and seriously funny tour of eleven “exhibits”—toxic narratives about Black American experiences. From confrontational to aspirational, morbid to triumphant, Wolfe’s satiric sketches target America’s most pernicious stereotypes of Black culture, looking to retire outdated exhibits and make room for the future. This innovative environmental production immerses the audience in George Wolfe’s 1986 classic about the grief, madness, and hope of Black life. Buy tickets here now through August 11th. LET'S GET INTERACTIVE:King Tut's Tomb: An Immersive Experience: “Tutankhamun: His Tomb and His Treasures,” the most in-depth and historically accurate recreation about King Tut and his treasures ever mounted, and it has never previously toured in Washington, D.C. Produced by Exhibition Hub and Semmel Exhibitions in partnership with Fever, this hands-on experience offers guests the chance to explore ancient Egypt with unprecedented detail and scale, mirroring Egyptologist Howard Carter's discovery right in Washington D.C. Find out more info here. OUTDOOR CONCERT SERIES:Admo Concert Series: Adams Morgan is hosting a concert series this summer including Jazz, rock and bluegrass bands. Local businesses will also be offering deals the night of the concerts. Find the full lineup here. Alden Summer Sunday Concerts in the Park: Due to the renovation of McLean Central Park, The Alden at the McLean Community Center’s Summer Sunday Concerts in the Park will be held at Lewinsville Park this year. The free concerts will be presented on the porch of the historic house in the park at 4 p.m. on Sundays through July 28. The park is located at 1659 Chain Bridge Rd. Featured artists include Backtrack vocal, and more. More info here. Free Concert Series at Strathmore Square: Strathmore is making your tuesdays a little bit better with their tuesday evening music from the square. On the second and fourth Tuesday of each month enjoy family-friendly music and activities on the square. strathmoresquare.comColorburst Park Summer Series: Dance under the stars with live music in Colorburst Park. With concerts through August 29, there’s plenty to enjoy! More info here. Rock the Dock Series: The Wharf has kicked off it's summer series and you can kick back on Transit Pier for free concerts featuring local bands playing a variety of genres such as R&B, Country, Pop and more (Wednesday nights 7:00 - 9:00 PM). wharfdc.comReston Concerts on the Town: Reston Concerts on the Town featuring Sip & Stroll occur every Saturday at the Reston Town Center Pavilion, through Aug. 24, 7:30-10:00 pm. Concert lineup includes: July 27 - The Reflex (80’s tribute)August 3 - Sam Grow Band + DJ (Country)August 10 - Three Sheets to the Wind (Yacht Rock)August 17 - Right On Band (Disco)August 24 - Magic! + DJ (Reggae Fusion)Jazz in The Garden: Jazz is officially back in the DC Sculpture Garden for summer. Musical performances include jazz, Latin fusion, zydeco, and more. The concert series will run through August 9. More info here. Tunes in the Triangle: Milian Park is bringing a summer concert series to their events with new voices. Enjoy concerts now through August 14. More info here. OUTDOOR MOVIE NIGHTS:Sunset Cinema Movies: A great movie night is taking place this summer at the Wharf. Enjoy a wide range of fan-favorite movies showing on the big screen (Thursday nights 7:30 - 9:30 PM). Full lineup here. Bethesda Movie Night: Enjoy free films in Woodmont's triangle this summer in Bethesda. Enjoy classics like Men in Black and Battle of the Sexes. More info here. Smithsonian Summer Movie Series: Come to the Zoo for an unforgettable cinematic experience! Introducing Summer Film Nights at the Zoo, a free outdoor summer event series set to dazzle and entertain. To see the full summer movie lineup, look here. Cabin John Movie Nights: Bring your blankets and lawn chairs to the Village Green at Cabin John. Enjoy movies like top gun maverick and more all summer long. More info here. The Drive-In at Union Market: The Drive-In at Union Market is back for the 12th season.  Get ready for a  blend of movies and munchies with concessions. From street food to Michelin-starred fine dining, experience it all at Union Market District. Bring your chairs and blankets for a cozy picnic-style set up in front of The Market. No tickets are needed to watch on Neal Place. More info here. EXPERIENCES:Fitness at the Fountain: National Landing has a new outdoor fitness program for this summer called Fitness at the Fountain. The two-month summer workout series continues is at Water Park (1601 Crystal Drive, Arlington) with sessions including yoga, kickboxing and more. The series will continue through August 26 in collaboration with local National Landing fitness studios. More info here. The city’s hottest sidewalk sale - Mid city dog days is back: The annual sidewalk sale is back this august 3 from 11am-4pm where you can find unique good from around the area. More info here. Mubadala Citi Open: From July 27 through August 4th, watch the best players in the world compete at the Mubadala Citi Open. As you watch tennis enjoy eats from Michelin-starred chefs and restaurants such as The Dabney, Gravitas and more. mubadalacitidcopen.comSundeck Summer Reads at the Yards: The Yards is hosting a new summer series called Sundeck Summer reads where you can gather on the sundeck on Wednesdays to enjoy dj sets and complimentary books to read. You can also enjoy happy hour deals. theyardsdc.comFolger’s Free Summer Programming: The Folger has just announced its slate of free summer programming for the months of July and August, 2024. From a Cuban salsa night to Arab poetry and music, from an inclusive, neurodivergent-friendly dance class for families to the return of the Folger Book Fair, and much more. More info here. Gardening Workshops at Halley Rise: Halley Rise, Northern Virginia’s largest, has a busy summer of outdoor gardening events and workshops for you to enjoy at The Farm! From Growing in Small Spaces 101 to yoga to bouquet making, there's something for everyone. Info here. Sunday Funday at The Wharf: The Wharf hosts beats and brunch every Sunday this summer from 3-6pm. Enjoy music like blues, R&B, and more. Reserve here. Dancing on the Waterfront: Dancing on the Waterfront is a free weekly outdoor dance class with the Potomac as your backdrop! This event takes place in Georgetown Waterfront Park, where participants of all ages and skill levels gather to embrace the joy of dancing. Every week, a DJ will spin a mix of music, blending various genres and beats. From salsa to square dancing, bachata, country line dancing and kizomba, you’ll get to try an array of dance styles. Info here. Sea Table: Discerning connoisseurs can partake in an extraordinary sensory experience as LOUIS XIII Cognac and Petrossian Paris unite to present an exclusive tasting event aboard the luxurious sailing vessel, Cru Classé. The experience will be hosted by Michelin award-winning Chef Troy Knapp, the owner of Sea Table D.C., who will be joined on this charter experience by LOUIS XIII Cognac and Petrossian. This exceptional guided tasting experience is tailored for up to six guests seeking the pinnacle of luxury on the scenic local waterways of the nation’s capital for a two-and-a-half-hour exclusive journey. Available from June 1 through October 2024, this luxurious adventure costs $65,000. Info here. Riverdale Artisan Market: The Riverdale Artisan market is back for the summer. Enjoy locally crafted fresh goods, artisanal crafts and live music at monthly markets from May to October. Markets will be held on the last Saturday of each month, featuring a variety of local vendors offering everything from paintings and jewelry to vintage clothes and even ice cream. More info here. Perch Putt at the Watermark Hotel: Putt into spring with the re-opening of Perch Putt. The 18-hole putt putt golf course located at The Perch – a 2.5 acre sky park has reopened. The Perch offers guests rounds of golf with live entertainment accompanied by a Greyhound and a double-decker bus that have been converted into food trucks, including a new addition this year, Bap-Bowl. Rhum Rhoost, a vibrant tiki bar, will also be serving special festive drinks for Easter, including Peeps Hot Chocolate and mimosa buckets. perchputt.comWhitlow’s on Water: The guys who brought DC’s only pedal party cruise boats, the Potomac Paddle Club, and only floating tiki bar party boats, the Potomac Tiki Club, will be back on the water for the 2024 season with a 48-passenger Tiki Boat in collaboration with iconic DC and former Clarendon bar, Whitlow’s. The 50-foot floating bar, Whitlow’s on Water, will sail from Georgetown Harbour and Navy Yard beginning St. Patrick’s Day weekend 2024. Whitlow’s on Water will have an 18-foot U-shaped bar surrounded by stool seating. The vessel will be fully covered allowing cruises in all kinds of weather. It will have two televisions, an on-board bathroom and plush seating couches. Find out more info here. 

BYOB (B stands for Blanket!) No, you do not need a reason to pack a picnic, but! July just happens to be National Picnic month and who are we to argue? Area restaurants and markets are packing up everything you need - snacks, salads, wine, etc - to help you better enjoy these lazy summer days. All you need to do is pick the location and lay out your blanket. Pro-tip: Don't forget the corkscrew ~ Apéro: Caviar & Champagne Bayou Bakery: Sweet endings (blondies, cookies, and pies) Bread Furst: More than bread - but you also really wanna get some bread  Call Your Mother: A schmear for everyone  Cheesetique: All the wines & cheeses - natch  CMB at Home: The whole meal from soup to nutsCork: Fried chicken and Champagne  Doro Soul Food: Fried chicken bucket with all the sides  Green Almond Pantry: Perfectly packed picnic & salad supplies (don’t forget the focaccia)  Hank’s Oyster Bar: Lobster roll kits  The Hay-Adams: Customized picnic backpacks via in-room dining  I Egg You: Breakfast sammiesNobu DC: Sushi cups to-go Park Hyatt: Picnic for two (choose from breakfast, lunch, or dinner) plus an overnight stayPizzeria Paradiso: Pizza picnic package The Point: Crabs to go  Soko Butcher: All the sandwichesSt Vincent Wine: Wine & charcuterie package for 4-6 people  Stachowski's: Piled-high sandwiches  Sticky Fingers: Cherry pie bars and DIY campfire cookie kits  Taco Bamba: Empanadas and margaritas to-go 

July is National Ice Cream Month, with the third Sunday of the month designated as National Ice Cream Day. It's the perfect time to cool off and indulge in this sweet treat, especially around the DC Metro Area. The DMV has numerous spots to indulge in a refreshing hand-crafted confection. Ice Cream is the OG of comfort foods. Creamy and velvety, it melts in your mouth and takes you back to a simpler time. Of course, we've compiled a list of some of the best places to explore and get your scream on:Alma Cocina Latina: Guanábana and green peppercorn ice cream; almacocinalatina.comBayou Bakery: Rainbow sno-balls topped with condensed milk; bayoubakeryva.comBeresovksy’s Deli: Classic and boozy milkshakes; beresovskys.comBlue Duck Tavern: Strawberry ice cream made with local milk from Kurtz Family Creamery and Harry’s Berries Strawberry puree; blueducktavern.comCumberland Valley Ice Cream Trail: Free digital passport encouraging you to visit ice cream locations throughout Cumberland County; use your mobile’s location to check-in to each location and earn points to win prizes; visitcumberlandvalley.comDolcezza Gelato: Pistachio Siciliano, made with pistachios from Sicily; dolcezzagelato.comIce Cream Jubilee: Blueberry Crisp, made with homemade blueberry jam, vanilla ice cream, and cinnamon streusel; icecreamjubilee.comJeni’s Splendid Ice Cream: Sparkling cherry pie with sour cherry and Sichuan peppercorn; jenis.comJoon: Cardamom and toffee ice cream or raspberry sorbet made with Moon Valley Farm berries; eatjoon.comJoy by Seven Reasons: Purple ube soft serve with lemon ginger syrup, bee pollen, and peanut caramel; sevenreasonsgroup.comLapop: Boozy saffron milkshake;nstagram.comMalai: All South Asian inspired flavors are eggless, handcrafted, and churned with very little air; malai.coQueen’s English: Salted duck yolk with espresso crumble; queensenglishdc.comResidents Cafe: Peaches & Cream made with whipped yogurt cream. residentsdc.com 

 All Purpose: Frozies (both rum and vodka options)Colada Shop: Piña Coladas - duh!ilili DC: Aperol Spritz’sicle Jack Rose Dining Saloon: The Hot Girl SummerJoon: Frozen Joon Julep King Street Oyster Bar: Frozen espresso martiniPascual: Frozen MargaritaPatty O's: FrosėPetite Cerise: Frozen rum cocktail with coconut meringue801: Coco Loco 

National Rosé Day may be over, but we’ll raise a glass of this pink drink all summer long. This beloved beverage, known for its versatility and refreshing taste, has become a staple of summer sipping, inspiring the famous mantra "Rosé All Day." There are so many hot spots in the DC Metro Area where you can sit back and raise a glass to this favorite wine. Apéro: aperodc.com    Barrel Oak Winery: barreloak.com  Brasserie Liberte: libertedc.com Cheesetique: cheesetique.com Cork Wine Bar: corkdc.com  Era Wine Bar: erawinebar.com Fiola Mare: fiolamaredc.com Le Diplomate: lediplomatedc.com Lena's: lenaswoodfire.com Little Blackbird: littleblackbirddc.com Lulu's Wine Garden: luluswinegarden.com Lutèce: lutecedc.com  Maxwell Park: maxwellparkdc.com Patty O's: pattyoscafe.com Planet Wine: planetwineshop.com The Point: thepointdc.com Pop Fizz Bar: popfizzdc.com Primrose: primrosedc.com Sixty Vines: sixtyvines.com  St Vincent: stvincentwine.com Urban Grape: dc.theurbangrape.shop