Alright, DC, this is your moment. Public voting is officially open for the 44th Annual RAMMYS Awards & Gala, and if you’ve ever had a favorite anything —> bar, brunch, sandwich, or go-to hang —> you’re now part of the process.Hosted by the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington, the RAMMYS celebrate the very best of our region’s restaurant and hospitality community. This is where diners get to weigh in.You can cast your votes now through May 17 across four fan-favorite categories:Best BarBest BrunchHottest Sandwich SpotFavorite Gathering PlaceAnd this year, there’s something new: Content Creator of the Year.This is a write-in category (yes, you have to type it in), and it’s recognizing the digital voices shaping how and where we all eat. The ones going beyond the pretty plate to actually tell the stories of the people and places behind the food.Who’s In the Running?Favorite Gathering Place-Cafe Milano-Jane Jane-Le Diplomate-Old Ebbitt Grill-SOSTBest Brunch-dLeña-I Egg You-Matt & Tony’s-Ruthie’s All Day-Unconventional DinerBest Bar-Cana-El Presidente-Press Club-Service Bar-Silver LyanHottest Sandwich Spot-2fifty Texas BBQ-Celebrity Delly-Joia Burger-Soko Butcher-Your Only FriendWinners will be announced the week of June 22 (NBC Washington + RAMW socials), and then celebrated in full at the 44th Annual RAMMYS Awards & Gala on June 29. Do not forget that this year’s ceremony is at Arena Stage followed by the afterparty at The Anthem.This is your chance to rally behind your favorites and maybe even give some love to the voices helping you discover it all in the first place.Go vote. You know you have thoughts.

Spring Ready? The DMV is officially shaking off winter and stepping into longer days and menus that feel just a little lighter and brighter. Thank Goodness! We are ready for fresh greens, farmers’ market finds, and chefs leaning into the flavors of the season.Here at TheListAreYouOnIt.com, we’ve rounded up the can’t-miss bites and experiences to help you eat your way into spring.-Make a night of it, see a show and grab a great pre- or post-theatre meal with our theatre + dining guide (here).-This week's list of The List's favorite beverages,  here.-Celebrate the season with festivals, pop-ups, and springtime dining events popping up all over the region (here).-You don’t need an excuse to visit a woman-owned business or celebrate women history month…here’s the list.So much more fresh, flavor-packed goodness below:MARK YOUR CALENDAR: Georgetown French Market: The 23rd annual Georgetown French Market returns April 24-26 (11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), transforming Book Hill into a lively open-air market with sidewalk sales from 45+ local businesses, French-inspired bites, live music, and family-friendly entertainment. Free to attend, the weekend brings a taste of Paris to DC. with shopping, strolling performers, and seasonal festivities; georgetownfrenchmarketdc.comZwanze Day: The Sovereign joins beer lovers worldwide on April 25 for Cantillon Zwanze Day, featuring rare lambics, bottles, and exclusive pours. Doors open at 10:00 a.m., with the highly anticipated Zwanze beers tapped at 3:00 p.m. for a synchronized global toast—plus additional Cantillon drafts, retail, and limited merch available throughout the day; thesovereigndc.comNew Kitchens on the Block: Mess Hall’s New Kitchens on the Block returns April 25 with a one-day food festival showcasing nine of D.C.’s most anticipated upcoming restaurants before they open. Guests can sample dishes and meet chefs behind concepts from names like Fabio Trabocchi, the Cava team, and Clyde’s Restaurant Group, with participants including Alfie’s, Maurizio’s, Ebbitt House, and more. The event runs in two sessions with tickets starting at $99.00; messhalldc.comPisco y Nazca Anniversary: Pisco y Nazca is marking its 1-year anniversary on April 29 with all-day specials, including half-off Pisco Sours, Chaufa tastings during “Hora Loca” happy hour, and a chance to win a $50.00 gift card; piscoynazca.comSanta Barbara Wine Dinner at Vermilion: Vermilion hosts a 4-course Santa Barbara wine dinner on April 30 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., featuring pairings from winemaker Sonja Magdevski of Clementine Carter. The $175.00 experience includes guided pours and insights into her Rhône-style wines, known for their elegant, terroir-driven approach; vermilionrestaurant.comTaqueria Xochi Cinco de Mayo: Taquería Xochi is turning Cinco de Mayo into a full-on, weeklong celebration with events from Friday through Tuesday. Expect themed karaoke, DJ sets, all-day Xochi Hour, and festive décor at both Navy Yard and Arlington locations—plus the debut of the Sinaloa Dog, a bacon-wrapped street-style hot dog, starting May 1; taqueriaxochi.comMaru San August Reservations Open: Reservations for the August “Maru Experience” open May 1 at 11:30 a.m. via Resy, offering an intimate, Nikkei-style tasting from Chefs Carlos Delgado and Simon Lam. The $115.00 chef’s counter experience features 15+ courses blending Japanese and Peruvian influences, with just 4 seats per night at 7:00 p.m.; marusandc.comGet Out of Town: Antigua & Barbuda’s annual Culinary Month returns this May with a full lineup of food-focused events, including Restaurant Week, the signature FAB Fest, and exclusive chef collaborations. The month-long celebration highlights Caribbean cuisine and talent, with guest chefs like Nina Compton and Tristen Epps-Long, plus experiences like “Eat Like a Local” and a finale beach party; antiguabarbudaculinarymonth.comBurnt Hill Farm Chef Counter Experience: The Chef’s Counter at Burnt Hill Farm, led by Chef Tae Strain, debuts this May as an intimate 12-seat tasting experience overlooking the vineyard. Guests can enjoy a 7-9 course menu rooted in Asian American flavors and Mid-Atlantic ingredients, paired with estate wines, with reservations open now and service running Friday through Sunday evenings starting May 1; burnthill.farmBeer, Bourbon & BBQ: The 5th Annual Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival returns to the Prince William County Fairgrounds on May 2 for a full day of all-you-care-to-taste beer and bourbon, live music, and serious barbecue. Expect whole hog tastings at the “Shrine of Swine,” pitmasters serving up ribs and brisket, and interactive tasting seminars—plus VIP early access for those looking to go all in; nova.beerandbourbon.comTwenty Years of Mandu: Mandu is marking its 20th anniversary in 2026 with a monthly collaborative dining series celebrating 2 decades in D.C.’s dining scene. The yearlong series brings guest chefs into the kitchen for special tasting menus inspired by Mandu’s Korean roots and the shared language of global cuisines. Scheduled dinners include Thursday, May 7, an AAPI Month celebration with Chef Erik Bruner-Yang of Maketto and Chef Steve Chu of Ekiben; mandudc.comMoon Valley Strawberry Festival: Moon Valley Farm will host its 2026 Strawberry Festival series on May 9, 16, and 23, featuring the region’s only Certified Organic pick-your-own strawberries. Guests can harvest berries straight from the field while enjoying food trucks, local vendors, and family-friendly activities, with a special early-access day for CSA members on May 9; moonvalleyfarm.netBlue Duck Tavern Anniversary:  Blue Duck Tavern will toast 20 years in the nation’s capital as one of the city’s most iconic restaurants in June 2026. To honor this monumental occasion, nationally recognized chefs, who formerly spearheaded Blue Duck Tavern, will return to prepare their signature dishes for a special dinner gathering accompanied by merrymaking over 2006 vintages from Blue Duck Tavern's Sommelier selections. The five-course feast will take place on Wednesday, June 10, with a champagne reception and hors d'oeuvres at 6 p.m.; blueducktavern.comCarla Hall One-Woman Show: Carla Hall is debuting her world premiere solo show, “Please Underestimate Me!”, at the Olney Theatre Center this summer. In the one-woman production, the award-winning chef, author, and TV personality shares a candid, humorous, and deeply personal look at her journey—from her Tennessee roots and Howard University to Paris runways. The DC chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier has reserved a block of seats for 2 performances: Friday, June 26 and Thursday, July 9 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $72.00, with a portion supporting scholarships and mentorship for women in food and hospitality. A special $92.00 ticket for the June 26 performance includes a post-show meet-and-greet with Carla Hall and light refreshments; buy tickets here.Family Reunion: Chef Kwame Onwuachi’s acclaimed culinary festival returns August 20–23 at Salamander Middleburg with its 2026 theme, “Folklore: A History of Storytelling.” The multi-day event brings together top chefs, panels, workshops, and immersive dining experiences celebrating Black and Brown contributions to food and culture, with tickets and packages now available; salamanderhotels.com/experience/family-reunionYottem Ottolenghi at Sixth & I: Celebrated chef and author Yotam Ottolenghi will appear at Sixth & I on October 8 at 7:00 p.m., discussing his latest cookbook Simple Too. In conversation, Ottolenghi will explore his philosophy of bold, approachable cooking and share recipes designed to make flavorful meals feel effortless; sixthandi.orgNEW & NOTEWORTHY: Along Came a Spider: Located on the 11th floor of The Watermark Hotel, Wren offers a Japanese-inspired dining experience from Executive Chef Yo Matsuzaki. The menu blends Japanese street food with modern American touches, featuring sushi, sashimi, and tableside A5 Miyazaki Wagyu, alongside favorites like the Spider Roll with soft shell crab tempura; wrentysons.comThe Brothers of Peru: Peruvian Brothers opens its first standalone DC restaurant on April 20 at 660 North Capitol Street NW, marking a major milestone for the immigrant-founded brand. Opening day will feature a celebration of Peruvian culture, with complimentary alfajores and bottles of Rocoto hot sauce for the first 100 guests; peruvianbrothers.comBeesy Bacon: The Silver & Sons Community Store truck in Bethesda is serving up a new breakfast lineup, including a standout bacon, egg, and cheese made with house-smoked Roseda Farms beef bacon. Served on an English muffin and paired with complimentary coffee, it’s a quick, hearty way to start the day; silverandsonsbbq.comSunday Family Dinner: Caruso’s Grocery is launching a new Sunday Family Dinner series, offering a 3-course Italian-American prix-fixe menu for $35.00 per person every Sunday from 4:00 to 9:00 p.m. Guests can mix and match favorites like garlic bread quattro formaggi, chicken parm, penne vodka, and classic desserts—bringing a cozy, family-style vibe to the table; carusosgrocery.comCrab & Crush: Crab season starts April 30 with Cowbell’s new “Crab & Crush” nights, featuring prepaid seatings at 5:30 and 7:45 p.m. Each reservation includes a 2-hour table and a first round of steamed blue crabs, plus orange crushes, $5.00 Natty Bohs, and the full menu; cowbellseafood.comFrosted Sugar Cookie? Yes, Please: Just in time for Mother’s Day, Jeni’s is scooping a limited-time Frosted Sugar Cookie flavor starting April 14. The nostalgic treat blends buttery sugar cookie custard with soft cookie crumbles and swirls of tangy pink cream cheese frosting—an indulgent, shareable dessert made for celebrating; jenis.comSoft Serve Collab: A new limited-time collaboration between José Andrés Foods and Dolcezza offers 2 Spain-inspired soft serve sundaes from now until May 10. Highlights include a Basque Cheesecake Sundae with goat cheese, honey, and black pepper, and an Olive Oil Sundae made with Arbequina EVOO and sea salt. Available at select Dolcezza locations and José Andrés restaurants.; dolcezzagelato.comTurkish Delights: ala has officially completed its full renovation and reopened in Dupont Circle, unveiling a bright new space and patio just in time for spring. A 2026 RAMMYs semifinalist, the Levantine restaurant is now serving updated seasonal dishes alongside dinner from Tuesday to Sunday, weekday happy hour, and weekend bottomless brunch; ala-dc.comBurrito Pop Up: Michelin Bib Gourmand spot Amparo Fondita is hosting a weekday lunch pop-up from Chef Christian Irabién’s upcoming concept El Gabacho, running through August 14. The takeout-focused menu features handmade flour tortilla burritos filled with bold options like chile colorado, pollo chipotle, and chile relleno—offering a fast, flavor-packed preview of what’s to come; amparofondita.comPack a Picnic - Daru: Chef Suresh Sundas is offering a new Mela Picnic Feast designed for easy, shareable dining. Priced at $65.00 and serving 3-4 people, the takeout-only spread includes tandoori chicken, dal, mushroom biryani, pomegranate aloo, assorted breads, and gulab jamun—perfect for an al fresco meal; darudc.comTop Chef Tasting Menu: Marcus DC has launched its first tasting menu from Executive Chef Anthony Jones, a 5-course experience inspired by his personal story and culinary journey. The menu blends French technique with global influences, featuring dishes that reflect childhood memories, professional milestones, and the restaurant’s modern American perspective; marcusdc.comEat Tacos, Win Prizes: Tour del Taco returns for its 4th year this April, inviting participants to explore DC’s taco and pupusa scene through a month-long, self-guided crawl supporting local businesses. With no cost to join, guests can check in at participating spots, earn points with purchases, and join free group taco crawls every Tuesday throughout the month; districtbridges.org/tourdeltacoRagu for You: Vermilion is hosting a Sunday Night Ragu Family Dinner each week starting at 4:00 p.m., offering a hearty family-style Italian feast for $35.00 per person in the tavern, bar, and lounge. The meal features Chef Anthony Chittum’s slow-cooked ragu with pork spare ribs, braised Angus beef, meatballs, fennel sausage, plum tomatoes, and hand-cut egg noodles. The spread also includes a lacinato kale Caesar, sourdough garlic bread, and apple cider donuts with salted caramel and frozen custard for dessert. Guests can also pair the meal with featured red wines by the bottle selected to complement the Sunday feast; vermilionrestaurant.com NOT NEW, BUT NOTEWORTHY:Mediterranean Flair on H Street: Tiffany’s Bar & Bistro is rolling out a new spring menu from Chef Mehmet Sukutli, blending Mediterranean flavors with modern twists. Expect shareable mezze like whipped feta and beet labneh, plus standout plates like Adana kebab and duck shawarma. Served at weekend brunch on Saturday–Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.) brings dishes like Turkish eggs, pistachio French toast, and indulgent kaitifi hotcakes; tiffanysbistrobar.comItalian’s Back on NY Ave: Ashok Bajaj of Knightsbridge Restaurant Group has opened Rosselli in downtown DC, bringing refined Italian cuisine to the former Modena space. Helmed by Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Cardona, the restaurant pairs classic Italian dishes with a modern fine-dining approach in a newly reimagined, design-forward setting.; rossellidc.comSignature Cuts: Terra Gaucha has introduced its Signature Cuts dinner, a streamlined rodizio-style experience available nightly through September 30. Priced at $49.95, the menu features highlights like picanha, lamb sirloin, New York strip, and grilled shrimp, alongside traditional sides and a gourmet salad bar—offering a more accessible take on the classic Brazilian steakhouse experience; terragaucha.comBig, Crispy Flauta: Taco Bamba’s new limited-time special, The Jazz Flute, is here for spring featuring a crispy flauta packed with shaved steak or black beans, queso, peppers, and onions, all finished with chipotle lime ranch. Available now at all locations for $9.00, it’s a bold, handheld bite built for peak snacking; tacobamba.getbento.comThe Life: AYCE (Brunch Alert): La Vie is stepping into spring with a refreshed brunch, dinner, and dessert lineup, led by its new $55.00 Ultimate Brunch featuring chef stations, seafood displays, and sweet bites (plus $29.00 bottomless mimosas). Highlights also include a seasonal Mediterranean dinner menu and the limited-time Blooming Blossom Cheesecake—a cherry blossom-inspired showstopper available for 3 weeks; lavie-dc.comSupersize Me: Love on the Run launched a Super-Size ramen upgrade! For $7.00, guests can bulk up any bowl with gyoza or mushroom rice, a seasoned egg, and nori—perfect alongside their lineup of housemade ramen like Shio, Miso, and spicy Nagoya Tantanmen; lovemakoto.comAll-Day Counter Service in Georgetown: YELLOW Georgetown is shifting to an all-day counter service model starting April 14, now open Tuesday to Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. with no mid-day closure. Expect continuous access to their signature pastries, mezze, pita sandwiches, and coffee; yellowthecafe.comFarmer’s Market at The Wharf: Farmer’s Market SW has launched its new waterfront home at The Wharf, bringing a weekly Saturday market (9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.) through November 21. The market features a rotating lineup of local vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, prepared foods, and more—set against one of D.C.’s most vibrant waterfront destinations; wharfdc.comBunny Love: From the team behind Tail Up Goat, Rye Bunny has opened in Adams Morgan as a relaxed, counter-service concept from restaurateurs Jill Tyler and Chef Jon Sybert. The seasonal menu reimagines everyday favorites with thoughtful, ingredient-driven twists—think anchovy toasts, wild greens ravioli, and rockfish a la plancha—alongside a curated beverage program led by sommelier Audrey Dowling; ryebunny.comPack a Picnic - Love, Makotto: Love Makoto is celebrating spring with its Hanami Hand Roll Picnic, a limited-time offering inspired by the Japanese tradition of cherry blossom viewing. Available for pickup or delivery, the $42.00 set is designed for 2 and features a selection of hand rolls perfect for an easy, picnic-style dining experience; lovemakoto.comMinetta Mornings (Brunch Alert): Minetta Tavern has launched a new spring brunch menu from Chef Laurent Kalkatour, featuring exclusive dishes like Ricotta Pancakes with blueberry compote, Fish and Chips, Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail, and a Salmon Gravlax plate; minettataverndc.comHello, Friend: Kevin Tien x Alan Bo: Chef Kevin Tien debuts Chao Ban at Tysons Galleria alongside longtime partner Alan Vo. The fast-casual Vietnamese-American counter concept draws inspiration from the pair’s upbringing as first-generation Vietnamese raised in Louisiana, blending Southeast Asian flavors with familiar American formats. The opening menu will feature dishes like pho noodles, a catfish bánh mì, rice platters, and shareable snacks such as Impossible xiu mai and honey pecan shrimp; tysonsgalleria.comLions and Tigers and Bears, Oh My: Chef Jon Krinn is debuting a boundary-pushing seasonal tasting menu featuring rare proteins like wood pigeon, kangaroo, and sturgeon in a carefully curated multi-course progression. Available for the next 4 weeks, the menu highlights Krinn’s signature approach, pairing globally inspired flavors with refined technique and artful presentation. Tucked away on Fairfax Boulevard, Elyse has earned a reputation as a Northern Virginia hidden gem, offering adventurous diners an intimate tasting experience that pushes the boundaries of fine dining; elyse.lila.llcThe Cumberland Valley Coffee & Chocolate Trail Returns: The Cumberland Valley Coffee & Chocolate Trail is back with a nostalgic Friends-inspired theme, running from January 28 through May 11. Using a free digital passport, participants can explore nearly 30 cafés, chocolatiers, and sweet spots throughout the Cumberland Valley, checking in to earn points, prizes, exclusive discounts, and special offers along the way. This year’s trail includes locations such as King & Saint, Denim Coffee, Helena’s Chocolate Café & Creperie, Mummert Chocolates, The Cracked Pot Coffee Shop, and many more. The trail officially kicks off on January 28, with a launch event at King & Saint Café in Shippensburg at 9:00 a.m., where early passport holders can enjoy complimentary coffee and a pastry while supplies last; visitcumberlandvalley.com

Cinco de Mayo in the DMV is a choose-your-own-adventure kind of holiday. Maybe it’s tacos and a margarita at your go-to spot. Maybe it’s a mezcal tasting or a special menu. However you like to celebrate, there are plenty of ways to mark Cinco without going overboard. We’ve rounded up all the Cinco de Mayo dinners, drink specials, tastings, and events across DC, Maryland, and Virginia on the TheListAreYouOnIt.com calendar. Pick your plan, grab your people, and make good choices!

Mother’s Day is for all the moms, stepmoms, bonus moms, chosen-family moms, grandmothers, friends who are doing the mom thing beautifully, and honestly, anyone who shows up with love and care. Whether you’re celebrating with brunch, afternoon tea, bubbles, or a full-on day of indulgence, the amazing team here at TheListAreYouOnIt.com has rounded up plenty of ways to make the day feel special.Acqua Bistecca: Acqua Bistecca is introducing its highly anticipated weekend brunch, a refined Italian-inspired experience that blends indulgence, craftsmanship, and shareable moments. The menu reimagines classic brunch through the lens of Italian tradition and modern technique, featuring dishes like Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with amarena cherry compote, Eggs Celentano with pancetta and olive oil fried potatoes, and Maryland Blue Crab Crespelle with citrus béchamel and smoked trout roe. Guests can also expect signature touches like Tableside Tiramisu Toast, house-made focaccia, and elevated brunch cocktails including a Build-Your-Own Spritz and Diane’s customizable Bloody Mary; acquabistecca.comAda’s on the River: Ada’s on the River sets the tone for an elegant, thoughtfully elevated Mother’s Day, with special brunch and dinner dishes available alongside its signature waterfront experience. Every mother and mother figure will enjoy a complimentary mimosa at brunch or a glass of sparkling wine at dinner; adasontheriver.comala: This Mother’s Day, give back to moms for a brunch at ala (Bethesda and DC locations). From 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., enjoy a brunch buffet with the option of bottomless drinks and a spread of Mediterranean-inspired favorites perfect for celebrating; ala-dc.comAnnabelle: Annabelle is offering a 3-course prix-fixe Mother’s Day menu for $80.00 per person on May 10, featuring seasonal, locally inspired dishes from Chef Michael Fusano. Expect standouts like hamachi crudo, spring risotto, roast chicken with morels, and desserts like strawberry-rhubarb panna cotta; annabelledc.comBaked by Yael: Celebrate Mother’s Day with hands-on Cherry Blossom Cake Pop Classes at Baked by Yael on May 9-10. Kids can create a sweet homemade gift or join in with parents for a fun bonding activity, with multiple class times available Saturday and a relaxed Sunday session perfect for celebrating together (or dropping off the kids for a break); bakedbyyael.comBarca Pier & Wine Bar: Barca Pier offers a Mother’s Day experience that feels like an escape with all day specials. Items like Seared Duck Breast, Surf And Turf, Bacalao Tostada, and more. Designed for sharing, sipping, and taking in the waterfront energy, it is the kind of celebration that unfolds naturally. Every mother and mother figure will enjoy a complimentary mimosa at brunch or a glass of sparkling wine at dinner; barcaalx.comBistro du Jour: Enjoy a classic French afternoon tea with pastries, tea sandwiches, and curated teas on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 10 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Add a glass of Boizel Brut Champagne for $20.00; bistro-dujour.comBlue Duck Tavern: Blue Duck Tavern celebrates Mother’s Day with a luxe brunch ($185.00 per adult / $75.00 per kid) featuring seafood displays, prime rib, spring risotto, and more—plus a complimentary glass of crémant for moms. Extend the experience with afternoon tea in the Tea Cellar or return for à la carte dinner service; blueducktavern.comBoxwood Estate Winery: Treat Mom to a vineyard brunch on May 10 with seatings at 11:00 a.m. and 1 :00p.m. Guests can enjoy a chef-prepared spread including prime rib, handmade pastries, an omelet station, and chocolate truffles—plus a half-bottle of wine per ticket and a special gift for Mom. Outdoor seating is available after brunch for a relaxed, scenic finish; boxwoodwinery.comBully Spanish Steakhouse: Bully Spanish Steakhouse invites guests to celebrate Mother’s Day with a vibrant Flamenco Brunch—a spirited experience that brings together bold Spanish flavors, festive ambiance, and live flamenco flair. Guests can expect a lively brunch menu inspired by Iberian traditions, paired with refreshing sangrias, classic G&Ts, and a warm, celebratory atmosphere designed to honor moms in style; bullywdc.comCaruso’s Grocery: Caruso’s Grocery invites guests to celebrate Mother’s Day with its Mamma Mia! Dinner at Home, a curated Italian carryout feast designed for effortless, at-home celebrations. Priced at $135.00, the package includes a full spread for the family: Tomato & Basil Caprese, Roasted Garlic Caesar Salad, signature garlic bread, a choice of two pastas (from favorites like Penne alla Vodka, Shrimp Scampi, and Spaghetti & Meatballs), classic tiramisu for dessert, and a bottle of wine (Chianti, Pinot Grigio, or Prosecco). Each meal also includes a 5 oz bottle of Caruso’s housemade limoncello for a celebratory toast to Mom. Kid-friendly add-ons are available for $10.00 each, featuring entrée options and a mini cupcake from Buzz Bakery; carusosgrocery.comCheesetique: Celebrate Mom at Cheesetique with a festive Mother’s Day brunch or dinner on May 10, complete with cheerful décor and a thoughtful touch—every mom receives a complimentary Prosecco Composition to toast her special day. It’s a warm, easygoing way to gather, celebrate, and make her feel extra appreciated; cheesetique.comCorso Italian: At Corso, Mother’s Day celebrations span the whole weekend. On May 10, enjoy a festive Mother’s Day brunch or dinner with balloons and a complimentary Prosecco Composition for Mom, creating a lively, celebratory atmosphere. To kick things off early, Corso hosts its “Mamma Mia” Girl Dinner on Thursday, May 7, featuring 2 elevated snacks, a handcrafted cocktail or mocktail, and thoughtful “Moments with Mom” conversation cards—a fun, low-pressure way to connect and celebrate together before the weekend rush; corsoitalian.comDovetail: Dovetail is celebrating Mother's Day at Dovetail with 'Mum's Favorite' Dinner Special's. Menu items include Lobster Eggs Benedict, Brioche French Toast, Crab & Asparagus Omelet and more. Optional Rose (almost) all day pairing for $29.00. They are also offering 'Mum's Favorite' Dinner Special's. Menu items include Fluke Crudo with jalapeño and grapefruit, Chilled Lobster Salad, Petit Filet Mignon and more. Optional Rose (almost) all day pairing for $29.00; viceroyhotelsandresorts.comFigleaf: Join Figleaf on Mother's Day and Celebrate the 'Special Woman in Your Life' with Brunch & Dinner Experience. Priced at $65.00 per person with an option of Bottomless Brunch at $22.00 per person; viceroyhotelsandresorts.comGoodstone Inn & Restaurant: Escape to the Virginia countryside and celebrate the moms in your life! Goodstone is offering a special Mother’s Day brunch as well as a bubbles bar for mom; goodstone.comImmigrant Food: Immigrant Food is offering a special brunch “Salmon Florentine” ($27.00) for Mother’s Day featuring fresh salmon, baby spinach, mushrooms, cherry tomato, dill cream. Enjoy the special in Immigrant Food’s vibrant dining room or on their outdoor patios at all full-service locations; immigrantfood.comIron Gate: Celebrate Mother’s Day with a heartfelt, chef-driven brunch at Iron Gate, where every dish tells a personal story. This one-day-only menu is inspired by the favorite recipes and cravings of the mothers behind the restaurant’s team, bringing together flavors rooted in family traditions, heritage, and memory. Guests can enjoy standout dishes like Blue Crab Benedict with Old Bay béarnaise, Spring Lamb Arancini with mint salsa verde, and a Whole Oak Grilled Branzino, alongside indulgent sweets like a Big Ol’ Cinnamon Roll and Texas Sheet Cake; irongaterestaurantdc.comJoon: Joon is offering a special add-on package designed to celebrate Mom for just $55.00. The experience includes flowers, the restaurant’s signature Persian Love Cake, and a choice of cocktail or zero-proof elixir. Guests can toast with the “Joonam,” a bright pomegranate and gin sour, or opt for the “Mother of Pearl,” a sparkling NA drink. The package is available alongside Joon’s regular menu; eatjoon.comLa Vie: Celebrate Mother’s Day in style at La Vie with an elevated Mediterranean-inspired brunch experience set against the stunning waterfront views of The Wharf. Guests are invited to indulge in a lavish buffet featuring an abundant seafood display, refined carving stations, and an exquisite selection of desserts. Highlights include fresh oysters, lobster tails, crab legs, Mornay Lobster Mac & Cheese, and deviled eggs topped with caviar, alongside a fresh juice station and a dedicated barista crafting custom coffee creations. Thoughtfully designed to honor Mom, this experience blends culinary excellence with a vibrant, elegant atmosphere; lavie-dc.comLiberty Tavern: Liberty Tavern is offering Mother's Day specials alongside their regular menu. Highlights include spring caprese, 6oz filet mignon, pasta primavera with lobster and peas, and berry shortcake pavlova. They'll also feature a specialty cocktail, the Fiore del Paradiso, plus select wines; thelibertytavern.comLittle Blackbird: Little Blackbird is celebrating Mother’s Day with a complimentary self-serve “Mom-osa” bar during brunch, plus a sommelier pairing flight with bites. Dinner features seasonal dishes like rhubarb glazed salmon and roasted strawberries, blending thoughtful wine pairings with fresh flavors; littleblackbirddc.comLutèce: Join The Popal Group on Mother’s Day for dishes from Chefs Bruno Enciso and Ana Sofía Pino including Cinnamon Rolls and Sticky Toffee. Exec Pastry Chef Ana Sofía Pino is also offering an order-ahead cake to make the meal extra special. The signature banana chiffon cake features passionfruit curd and mocha ganache, iced in vanilla buttercream, with house made sprinkles; lutecedc.comLyon Hall: Lyon Hall is hosting a Mother's Day Brunch with reservations available starting at 9:00 a.m. Brunch specials include strawberry and grilled peach salad, sautéed soft shell crab, brook trout Oscar, grilled lamb chops, and berry shortcake pavlova. Guests can also sip on the signature "First Lady" cocktail, made with pea flower syrup, St-Germain, Rosolio di Bergamotto, Stoli Blueberry Vodka, and fresh lemon; lyonhallarlington.comMalabar: Malabar presents a $50.00 prix-fixe Mother’s Day brunch from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., showcasing modern Indian cuisine from Chef Vikram Sunderam. Guests can enjoy dishes like lamb samosas, Goan curry, biryani, and a dessert sampler, with dinner service available later in the evening; malabar-dc.comMedium Rare: On Sunday, May 10, the restaurant is rolling out a celebratory bottomless brunch, complete with unlimited cocktails, coffee, and juice. Guests can indulge in signature brunch dishes like Steak & Eggs, the fan-favorite Famous Benedict (with their secret steak sauce hollandaise), and their decadent 24-hour-soaked French Toast; mediumrarerestaurant.comMia’s Italian Kitchen: Mia’s brings a warm, festive spirit to Mother’s Day with specials available alongside its signature Bottomless Brunchand dinner. Brunch is lively and abundant, with a steady flow of Italian favorites made for sharing—think passed plates, flowing glasses, and a table that feels full in every sense, perfect for celebrating together. In the evening, the specials lean into bold, comforting flavors. Every mother and mother figure will enjoy a complimentary mimosa at brunch or a glass of sparkling wine at dinner; alexandria-va.miasitalian.comMoxies: Celebrate Mother’s Day at Moxies with extended brunch hours until 4:00 p.m., offering the perfect excuse to linger a little longer. Known for its polished yet energetic vibe, Moxies pairs elevated brunch favorites, handcrafted cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere for a celebration that feels both special and fun; moxies.comNorthside Social: Northside Social is offering a Mother's Day take home menu. Guests are encouraged to pre-order online 48 hours in advance. Menu highlights include strawberry shortcake buns, quiches, chocolate buttercream mini cake, macaroons, and specialty to-go cocktails and a mimosa kit; northsidesocialva.comOvoka Farm Winery: Celebrate mom and the beauty of the season at Ovoka Farm Winery. Choose your experience: The Farm to Glass Tasting Tour, a guided farm tour paired with a tasting of Virginia wines, or The Manor Tasting, an intimate tasting of wines and Wagyu inside their historic Manor House; ovokafarm.comPalette 22: Located in Arlington, Palette 22 offers a colorful, celebratory take on Mother’s Day, with special dishes available alongside its signature Bottomless Brunch and dinner experience. Brunch feels lively and generous, with a continuous flow of globally inspired small plates designed for sharing. In the evening, the menu leans into bold, expressive flavors with specials. Every mother and mother figure will enjoy a complimentary mimosa at brunch or a glass of sparkling wine at dinner; arlington.palette22.comPisco y Nazca: Opening early on Sunday, May 10t Pisco y Nazca will offer a $20.00 gift card for moms at all DMV locations, to come back and enjoy more bottomless mimosas and sangrias; piscoynazca.comRasika West End: Rasika is offering a 3-course Mother’s Day brunch for $60.00 ($30.00 for kids), featuring bold Indian flavors like crab ghee roast tacos, murgh rezala, and a trio of desserts. Brunch runs from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., with dinner service following; rasikarestaurant.comRoyal Restaurant: Royal Restaurant offers a warm, neighborhood setting for Mother’s Day, with special brunch and dinner dishes available for the occasion. Every mother and mother figure will enjoy a complimentary mimosa at brunch or a glass of sparkling wine at dinner; royalrestaurantva.comSABABA: SABABA is serving up a seasonal Mother’s Day brunch with specials like lamb lyonnaise potatoes and honey-glazed lamb “ham” steak, alongside its à la carte menu. Moms can enjoy a complimentary self-serve “Mom-osa” bar during brunch service from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.; sababauptown.comSixty Vines: Celebrate Mom the Sixty Vines way. The all-day Mother’s Day feature is one she won’t want to miss - a tender filet topped with cherry drizzle and Point Reyes blue cheese, served with a half Caesar salad and French fries, paired with the “First Bloom” Cherry Blossom Martini for a light, floral toast. Guests can also ease into the day with the new brunch menu, built for slow sips, shared bites, and time around the table; sixtyvines.comThe Bombay Club: The Bombay Club hosts a festive Mother’s Day Champagne brunch ($55.00 or $80.00 with bottomless bubbles) featuring live piano music and an Indian buffet with unlimited entrées. Expect dishes like lamb korma, shrimp caldin, and a classic dessert sampler; bombayclubdc.comThe Boro: Celebrate Mother’s Day weekend at The Boro in Tysons with Mom’s Day Out, a lively, family-friendly event filled with springtime charm. Taking place on Saturday, May 9 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (rain date: May 10), the celebration features flowers for moms, hands-on activities, live entertainment, photo moments, and special treats, plus raffles and shopping and dining experiences throughout the neighborhood. It’s an easy, festive way to spend the day celebrating Mom while exploring one of Tysons’ top destinations; theborotysons.comThe Dabney: The MICHELIN-starred restaurant is offering a 4-course prix fixe menu ($125.00) featuring seasonal dishes and celebratory surprises. Reservations can be booked between 3:00 to 8:00 p.m.; thedabney.comThe Darcy: Celebrate Mom with an elegant Mother’s Day Brunch at Gerrard Street Kitchen. Enjoy made‑to‑order omelets and waffles, artisan bread basket, watermelon burrata salad, your choice of entrée (from Herb‑Crusted Rack of Lamb to Crab Benedict and Impossible Kafta), plus dessert tea service with housemade pastries and Dammann Frères teas. Elevate the experience with bottomless mimosas or Bloody Marys and create memories in a beautiful floral‑inspired setting for $30.00; thedarcyhotel.comThe Falls: The Falls is offering an Unlimited Mother's Day Brunch for $40.00 per person ($14.00 for kids). Menu highlights include roasted lamb with mint jelly, crab cake benedict with old bay hollandaise, shrimp cocktail, ham & cheese and vegetable quiche, and berry shortcake pavlova; thefallsva.comThe Majestic: This Mother's Day, gather around the table at newly opened The Majestic by Chef Santiago Lopez and celebrate moms who make every neighborhood, every family, and every moment a little more meaningful. Join the restaurant for brunch or dinner – no prix fixe, no fuss. Every mother and mother figure will enjoy a complimentary mimosa at brunch or a glass of sparkling wine at dinner; themajesticva.comThe Sovereign: Celebrate Mother’s Day in style with a festive brunch at The Sovereign. Guests can enjoy a menu of classic brunch favorites alongside Belgian-inspired dishes, all served in a warm, inviting setting. Each mom will be honored with a complimentary beverage.  Choose from Sparkling Rosé, Cherry Beer, or a Non-Alcoholic Cocktail, paired with a beautiful dried flower bouquet; thesovereigndc.comTaqueria Xochi: Taquería Xochi, a current RAMMY finalist for Casual Restaurant of the Year, is offering a special of Cochinita Pibil Tacos for the holiday at both their Navy Yard and National Landing locations. The bright, citrusy, celebratory Yucatan-inspired dish features pickled red onions and habanero salsa; taqueriaxochi.comTheismann’s Restaurant & Bar: This Mother’s Day, Theismann’s is inviting families to gather, celebrate, and enjoy a meal that’s as easygoing as it is satisfying, with special brunch and dinner offerings available. Brunch brings a lively, crowd-pleasing energy with its Bottomless Brunch, perfect for sharing favorites, raising a glass, and settling in for a relaxed celebration. In the evening, classic dishes take the spotlight, from Grilled Filet Mignon to Pistachio Crusted Halibut; theismanns.comVola’s Dockside Grill: On Mother’s Day, guests can enjoy brunch and dinner specials. Every mother and mother figure will enjoy a complimentary mimosa at brunch or a glass of sparkling wine at dinner; volasdockside.comXiquet: Celebrate the moms and mother figures in your life with a refined tasting experience rooted in care and intention at Xiquet. Special lunch and dinner services will be offered, each crafted to make the day feel extraordinary; xiquetdl.comYardbird Southern Table & Bar: Yardbird is celebrating Mother’s Day on May 10 with special brunch and all-day menus featuring elevated Southern favorites. Highlights include carrot cake pancakes, cheesy heirloom tomato tart, orange-glazed chicken, and BBQ filet medallions—plus seasonal cocktails like the Southern Passiontini and a zero-proof Porch Spritz; runchickenrun.com

Spring Ready? The DMV is trading hot toddies for spritzes, rosé, and cocktails that taste like sunshine. Bars are opening their windows, patios are filling up, and beverage pros across the region are shaking, stirring, and pouring the flavors of the season.At TheListAreYouOnIt.com, we’ve rounded up the can’t-miss sips and spirited experiences to welcome spring in style.-Make a night of it, see a show and grab a great pre- or post-theatre drink or dinner with our theatre + dining guide (here).-This week's list of The List's favorite food finds, here.-From cocktail pop-ups to wine tastings and brewery events, spring drinking events are blooming everywhere (here).-You don’t need an excuse to visit a woman-owned business or celebrate women history month…here’s the list.So much more refreshing, glass-raising goodness below:MARK YOUR CALENDAR Napa Valley Barrel Auction: The Napa Valley Barrel Auction takes place Friday, June 5, 2026, at the newly reimagined Robert Mondavi Winery, opening in May. Featuring more than 100 participating vintners, the Barrel Auction brings together wine enthusiasts and winemakers for a day of tasting wine directly from the barrel and bidding on lots. More info here. Blue Duck Tavern Anniversary:  Blue Duck Tavern will toast 20 years in the nation’s capital as one of the city’s most iconic restaurants in June 2026. To honor this monumental occasion, nationally recognized chefs, who formerly spearheaded Blue Duck Tavern, will return to prepare their signature dishes for a special dinner gathering accompanied by merrymaking over 2006 vintages from Blue Duck Tavern's Sommelier selections. The five-course feast will take place on Wednesday, June 10, with a champagne reception and hors d'oeuvres at 6 p.m. blueducktavern.comNEW & NOTEWORTHY: Drinks Going for the Gold: Atlas Brew Works's Bullpen Pilsner won gold in the American-Style Pilsener category at the World Beer Cup. With a 4.7% ABV, Bullpen Pilsner features subtle floral and earthy hop notes paired with a clean finish. Light, crisp, and refreshing, it’s the perfect craft lager for a sunny afternoon in the baseball stadium. The beer was previously named a 2025 US Open Beer Championship Gold Medal Winner and 2022 Great American Beer Festival Bronze Medal Winner. atlasbrewworks.comMinetta Martini (Happy Hour Alert): Minetta is unveiling its signature Martini Hour, a new offering set to elevate the pre-dinner special in Union Market District. Designed for everything from post-office cocktails to leisurely evenings with friends, Martini Hour will be offered at the bar Sunday-Thursday, from 4:30pm-6:30pm. Guests can enjoy a proper martini or one of seven variations for $10 ($19 during regular hours), plus a curated selection of bites ideal for an early evening rendezvous. 1287 4th St NE, Washington, DC; minettataverndc.comTide Tiki PopUp: Hi-Tide Lounge’s Tiki Bar Pop-Up is officially open and it's bringing a vibrant, tropical escape to Old Town Alexandria for a limited time.Running now through August 31, the pop-up transforms the space with festive Tiki décor, island-inspired cocktails, and a specialty menu. On the drinks side, the menu leans into bold, tropical flavors with cocktails like the Mai Tide (a bright rum blend with orgeat and citrus), Smuggler’s Mist (mezcal with coconut cream and pineapple), and Saturn’s Daughter (gin with passion fruit and falernum), plus large-format punch bowls designed for groups, and plenty of zero proof options. 101 N Union St Unit B, Alexandria, VA 22314; volasdockside.comForget Breakfast, Cocktails at Tiffany’s: Tiffany’s Bar & Bistro recently introduced a wide selection of spring-inspired cocktails. Cocktail enthusiasts can enjoy playful drinks such as the Lion’s Bite stirred with cognac, strawberry, almond syrup, Campari, and San Pellegrino Limonata; the Galata Sunset made with vodka, mastiha (a traditional Greek liqueur made from mastic trees grown on the island of Chios), cucumber, basil, fresh lemon orange blossom, and prosecco; and the Summer Light crafted with chamomile bourbon, Heering cherry liqueur, fresh lime, and ginger beer. 709 H St NE, Washington, DC 20002; .tiffanysbistrobar.comShaken or Stirred: Lucy is expanding its cocktail menu with a wide-ranging selection of martinis. The menu features riffs on well-known iterations of the iconic cocktails, house specialties, and offers guests the option to create a bespoke martini. Options from the new menu include the Left Bank-inspired Rive Gauche (Citadelle gin, Dolin dry vermouth, Critone chardonnay and St. Germain); the Highland Whisper (Tanqueray n.10, Noilly Prat dry vermouth and Kilchoman scotch). 1350 Florida Ave NW, Washington, DC 20009; lucybardc.comSpring in a Glass: Blue Duck Lounge and Blue Duck Tavern have new spring cocktails just in time for the arrival of warmer weather. Newcomer libations from the bar include the Under Pressure with Mandarin-infused vodka, Combier, Basil Eau Di Vie, black pepper syrup and lime juice, garnished with dehydrated mandarin and espelette-mandarin sugar rim; So Long, Farewell with Hendricks gin, toasted black pepper syrup, lemon juice, basil leaves and two slices of cucumbers, muddled; and more. 1201 24th St NW; blueducktavern.comItalian’s Back on NY Ave: Rosselli has opened with Michelin-starred chef Carlos Cardona as the executive chef. The Italian name Rosselli literally means "rose," the flower. 1100 New York Ave, NW; Rosselli.comNew & Improved: Mélange, Chef Elias Taddesse's celebrated restaurant in Shaw, today announced a new partnership with Lou Bernard, Beverage Director of Michelin-starred Mita, to lead and reimagine the restaurant's bar and service program. All offerings are backed by a cocktail program that includes creative expressions like the kibbeh-washed Old Fashioned, a nod to Taddesse’s culinary heritage and innovation. 2108 8th St. NW; melangefoods.comFlora Garden Pop Up at Lulu’s: Lulu’s Winegarden will soon celebrate DC’s long-awaited spring season with the return of its popular “Flora Garden” – a springtime pop-up bringing floral cocktails and petaled patios to the U Street bar. Lulu’s is showcasing a bouquet of spring flavors and spirits in several creative floral cocktails, including the edible flower-topped First Bloom with botanically-driven Citadelle Jardin D'ete gin, elderflower and Aperol; a slightly-savory garden margarita infused with black pepper tequila; a shiso-pineapple crush; a spicy-citrusy sour with yuzu and jalapeno aguardiente; and a bubbly Chandon Hugo Spritz. 1940 11th Street NW, Washington, DC 20001; luluswinegarden.comNOT NEW, BUT NOTEWORTHY: Virginia is for Lager Lovers:  Virginia Tourism Corporation and Devils Backbone Brewing Company have a new partnership surrounding Devils Backbone’s flagship beer, Vienna Lager: a collaborative “Virginia is for Lager Lovers” logo will appear across all Vienna Lager packaging beginning in April 2026. The co-branded “Virginia is for Lager Lovers” campaign is a spin on the iconic original logo and slogan, “Virginia is for Lovers,” first introduced in 1969. dbbrewingcompany.comBeer. Shuttle. Game.: Atlas Brew Works and Redbrick are making game day easier with a complimentary shuttle service for all weekend Washington Nationals home games in April, including this Friday’s Home Opener (April 3). Running Friday through Sunday, the shuttle will transport guests from Bridge District directly to Nationals Park. Pickup will be conveniently located right outside the Atlas Bridge District Brewery & Tap Room, with drop-off near the First Base line along Potomac Ave SE.What Is Game Night?: Astro Beer Hall recently introduced the interactive and team-based JEOPARDY! Bar League to its weekly event lineup. Every Thursday beginning at 7:30pm only at the DC location, Jeopardy enthusiasts can join the beer hall to play two hours of Jeopardy emceed by trained hosts, featuring official Jeopardy content and chances to win prizes. Try local brews such as The Hopfheiser Brewing Company’s Old Time Lager and Solace Brewing Company’s seasonal Bloom Goes the Dynamite, available for a limited time this spring. Hand-crafted cocktails and mocktails are also available alongside seltzers and wines by the glass.  1306 G St NW, Washington, DC 20005; astrobeerhall.comArak without Alcohol: At Tapori, Bar Director EJ Apaga set out to challenge the predictable world of spirit-free cocktails, and to create something that truly drinks like an extraordinary adult beverage. Frustrated with the current state of non-alcoholic cocktails, which often use lemonade, ginger or capsaicin as a base, he drew from his experience with Arak. The result, after three months of refinement, is the Pom Star Soda: a sparkling, crystal-clear, non-alcoholic arak-inspired drink with layered spice, balance, and a distinctly grown-up profile. 600 H Street NE; taporidc.comThere is No Bottom (Brunch Alert): Bar Chinois, the French-Chinese fusion restaurant, put a truly signature spin on their seasonal cocktail menu for spring with a special bartender showcase. Selections include the Bijou de Gansu, with rye whiskey, toasted rhubarb, strawberry-cinnamon honey and soda, the Citrus Paradis with Cazadores Blanco Tequila, grapefruit, basil, orange blossom and Stiegl Radler, and the Le Rubis with Citadelle Rouge Gin, Strega, blueberry, honey and lemon. 455 Eye Street, NW; barchinoisdc.comMartini Hour (Happy Hour Alert):  Elegancia has a new Martini Hour, a stylish and elevated take on the classic happy hour, celebrating the timeless cocktail through a Latin lens. From Tuesday through Friday, you can enjoy a curated selection of handcrafted martinis for $10 each, including the Mango Martini, the Espresso de Olla Martini, and a Classic Vodka or Gin Martini. 1280 4th St NE, Washington, DC 20002; Elegancia.com 

I spent some time in National Landing recently and here’s the thing,, you may think you know it, but you don’t. Not anymore. What used to feel like a pass-through between Crystal City and Pentagon City has quietly turned into a place you actually plan around.  You go for a coffee, end up staying for lunch, maybe a drink turns into dinner, and suddenly you’re three hours in wondering how that happened. Crystal Drive is where it’s all clicking right now. I put together a full guide of where to eat, where to sip, where to shop, and where to land when you’re done moving (hint: you’re not leaving the Water Park anytime soon). Read the full guide: These Are The People In Your Neighborhood: National Landing Is Having a Moment

Spring is officially in bloom, and so is the DMV dining scene. Restaurants and venues across the region are celebrating the season with activations perfect for longer days and warmer nights!What a Show:Springtime at Strathmore: Music Center at Strathmore presents internationally acclaimed performers in May and June, including Jason Mraz; Renée Fleming; Andrew Bird with the National Philharmonic (June 3 & June 4): Grammy-nominated violinist performs his acclaimed album The Mysterious Production of Eggs for its 20th anniversary with new orchestral arrangements; Cécile McLorin Salvant (June 11): Three-time Grammy-winning jazz vocalist blends jazz, folk, and Baroque influences in Book of Ayres; Patton Oswalt (June 20): Emmy- and Grammy-winning comedian debuts a night of sharp pop-cultural commentary; Straight No Chaser (June 23): Nine-voice a cappella group returns for a high-energy performance combining tight harmonies and humor; Jesse & Joy (June 24): Six-time Latin Grammy-winning duo blends Latin pop with folk and acoustic influences; Chris Botti (June 26): Grammy-winning trumpeter brings his lush jazz-pop sound with an all-star band. Strathmore’s late-spring lineup also highlights the diversity of creative expression in music, visual art, and performance, including the Intersections Exhibition at the Mansion (May 9–June 10); Bloom at Good Hope concerts featuring Silkbeat (May 9) and Christylez Bacon (June 13); Maryland Classic Youth Orchestras performances (May 13 & May 17); and a Sensory-Friendly Concert Hall Tour (May 16). Emerging and local talent also take center stage through theArtists in Residence program, including Juan Manú (May 13, 20 & 27) and Kanysha (June 10, 17 & 24), offering a mix of heritage, experimentation, and new musical voices.See all the shows coming to town in our Theater Roundup, here.Museum Visits:Making Their Mark: The National Museum of Women in the Arts is presenting Making Their Mark: Works from the Shah Garg Collection, on view February 27 through July 26. The major exhibition features 80 works by nearly 70 influential women artists spanning from 1946 to today, highlighting the powerful role women have played in shaping abstract art. Drawn from the Shah Garg Collection, the show includes painting, sculpture, textiles, ceramics, and mixed media works exploring themes of identity, form, and artistic innovation across generations; nmwa.orgJack Boul Exhibit at Park Hyatt: Park Hyatt Washington, D.C. is showing a special year-long exhibit featuring monotypes by artist Jack Boul. Jack Boul (1927-2024) was a painter, printmaker, and sculptor whose work can be found in the National Gallery of Art, the Smithsonian, the Phillips Collection, the Library of Congress, and many other public and private venues. Born in New York, Jack Boul spent most of his life in Washington, D.C., as an art professor at American University. He was among the founders of the Washington Studio School. This special collection is curated by his son, David Boul. parkhyattwashington.com Camouflage: Designed to Deceive: Explore the world of camouflage and deception in a new multi-sensory, immersive experience at The International Spy Museum. The special exhibition, Camouflage: Designed to Deceive, examines the fascinating history of camouflage and its many secret connections to espionage. From its origins in the natural world to its contemporary applications in the battlefield and beyond, the exhibit explores the impact of camouflage on covert operations and intelligence gathering throughout history. The exhibit spans the intersecting worlds of science, design, military and political history, art, fashion, and pop culture. Utilizing real stories, artifacts, and immersive media, visitors will get an up-close look at how concealment has influenced espionage throughout time and why it remains essential in today’s digital world of surveillance. Tickets are available now for $15. Visitors can also add the exhibition to general admission for just $13. spymuseum.org Blacklisted: An American Story: This exhibit explores the Hollywood blacklist and the federal government’s loyalty investigations that upended thousands of lives during the Red Scare. Through powerful personal stories, rare artifacts, and film clips, the exhibition reveals how fear, politics, and identity collided—and what was lost when dissent was silenced. From the late 1940s through the 1950s, all three branches of government sacrificed First Amendment rights in the name of security. Freedoms of speech, association, and assembly came under fire. Hundreds of people lost their jobs, thousands resigned under duress, and many more stood by quietly, afraid of repercussions for their real or imagined political participation. On loan from Jewish Museum Milwaukee, the exhibition incorporates film, archival material, oral histories, costume, and photography to examine the shifting definition of what it meant then—and what it means now—to be a patriotic American, and who gets to decide. simpletix.com Two Exhibits, One Conversation: The National Building Museum announces two major exhibitions that, for the first time, will be presented in conversation with one another, illuminating how architecture, education, and collaboration shaped Black American life and the nation’s shared history.  A Better Life for Their Children: Julius Rosenwald, Booker. T Washington and the 4,978 Schools that Changed America, photographs and stories by Andrew Feiler, and The Tuskegee Chapel: Paul Rudolph x Fry & Welch, curated by architect Helen Brown Bechtel, together reveal the built environment as a powerful force for dignity, aspiration, and community transformation.  Together, the exhibitions demonstrate how place becomes meaningful when animated by human intentions and collaboration. From the rural schoolhouses that transformed educational access across the segregated South to the rebuilt Tuskegee Chapel that embodied ambition and self-determination during the Civil Rights Movement, these projects show how communities shaped their futures through design, labor, and collective vision. In both the Rosenwald Schools and the Tuskegee Chapel, architecture is not a neutral container, but an active participant in history, shaped by the people who built it and shaping generations in turn. nbm.org 34th Annual Juried Exhibition: Strathmore is presenting Steeped, the 34th Annual Juried Exhibition, on view March 7 through April 22 in the Mansion Galleries. The exhibition marks the 40th anniversary of Strathmore’s Afternoon Tea tradition and features 110 works by 78 artists exploring the ritual, history, and symbolism of tea through painting, ceramics, photography, and mixed media. Most artists hail from the D.C. region, offering contemporary interpretations of tea’s cultural and personal significance; strathmore.orgInterested in more tea? Don't miss our springtime afternoon tea roundup, here. Women United Exhibition at The Watergate Hotel: This spring, The Watergate Hotel highlights Women United, a global exhibition that brings together the work of contemporary women artists from around the world. The collective exhibition features artists Flávia Junqueira, Athena Anastasiou, Emilie Picard, Lesley Bodzy, and Ellen de Meijer, each presenting distinct creative perspectives and artistic styles. As part of the exhibition, Brazilian photographer and visual artist Flávia Junqueira will debut a special interactive installation inside The Next Whisky Bar. Known for her large-scale balloon installations staged in historically significant spaces, Junqueira’s work blends celebration with reflection, transforming environments into immersive visual experiences. For this installation, The Next Whisky Bar will be transformed into a vibrant setting filled with colorful balloons, inviting guests to step directly into the artwork, explore the space, and capture photos while reflecting on themes of memory, history, and transformation. Junqueira frequently draws inspiration from the visual world of childhood—balloons, soap bubbles, pinwheels, and merry-go-rounds—motifs that appear throughout her photography and installations. Through June 30, 2026; For more information, click here.  Blossom Fever - A Community Photo Exhibition at Dupont Underground: Everyone loves Cherry Blossoms and we all see them in our own unique ways. Blossom Fever is a projection exhibition featuring cherry blossom photographs taken by DMV residents. No professionals. No aesthetic agenda. Just blossoms, our neighborhoods, our eyes — projected on the 300-foot projection wall of Dupont Underground's historic reclaimed streetcar station. Opening night,  April 3, 6:00-8:00 p.m.; Friday through Sunday, 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., through April 12. For more information, click here.  Where Else You'll Find Us:Peak Bloom: The Dome at Hi-Lawn in the Union Market District is hosting Peak Bloom: Dome Experience, a limited spring installation running through April 26 in collaboration with ARTECHOUSE Studio. The 45-minute immersive experience transforms the venue’s 50-foot spherical dome with digital cherry blossom visuals projected overhead, creating a contemporary interpretation of the season’s iconic blooms. Guests can enjoy the show alongside a spring drink menu featuring spritzes and saketinis garnished with edible flowers. Tickets start at $12 with sessions running every 45 minutes Tuesday through Sunday; hilawndc.comHorizon of Khufu: A Journey in Ancient Egypt: Explore one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World—an archaeological treasure trove and a monumental testament to Egyptian architectural genius. Embark on an immersive journey through space and time to explore Egypt's Giza Pyramid, the resting place of Pharaoh Khufu, constructed over 4,500 years ago in the 4th Dynasty and until now a forbidden realm to the public. This 45 minute VR experience allows visitors to physically move and interact within a shared virtual reality space, providing a deeply emotional and engaging dive into the heart of Egyptian culture. Ages 10 and up; 926 F Street NW; For more information, click here. COMING SOON: Hershey Super Sweet Adventure: Embark on an interactive journey complete withgames, active play and family-friendly moments designed to spark imagination and connection for candy lovers of all ages. Visitors will celebrate the perfect combination in Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, uncover the delight that wraps Hershey’s Kisses Milk Chocolates, master the art of the Twizzlers Twists, experience the bold flavors of Jolly Rancher candies and more. For its East Coast debut, the experience will feature never-before-seen activations including a playful celebration of Bubble Yum Bubble Gum and an all-new grand finale experience where guests can personalize their own Hershey’s Milk Chocolate bar wrapper with a selfie and other fun options. Tickets for Hershey Super Sweet Adventure will be available starting at $19.99 per person. HersheySuperSweetAdventure.com Cherry Blossom Daruma: Returning for its second year, the pink sphere—adorned with delicate blossom petals and suspended 10 feet above—transforms Anthem Row into a moment of spring beauty and renewal. Designed by multidisciplinary artist My Ly of My Ly Design, the sculpture takes the form of a Daruma—a traditional Japanese doll symbolizing perseverance, good luck, and goal-setting. As the new season begins, pause beneath the Cherry Blossom Daruma to snap photos, jot down your goals and wishes, and let the energy of spring inspire the year ahead. Make a wish as you click the camera, and welcome the season while exploring one of Downtown DC’s charming pedestrian corridors. On display through May 2026; 800 K Street NW; downtowndc.org  Blossom: This four-day seasonal activation, April 9 through April 12, takes place in the heart of Ballston. The free event invites the community to explore the neighborhood in bloom with colorful installations, photo-ready moments, and a spring pop-up market featuring local makers. Launching for the first time this year, Blossom will transform the M1 level of Ballston Quarter with six flower-themed installations designed to bring playful, immersive spring moments to the neighborhood. As part of the celebration, the Ballston BID and Ballston Quarter will host the Blossom Pop-Up Market on Friday, April 10 from 4:30–7:30 PM. The curated market will feature more than a dozen local vendors offering handmade crafted jewelry, ceramics, original artwork, home goods, specialty treats, and other unique items. For more information, visit ballstonva.org 

TheListAreYouOnIt’s latest Theatre Guide rounds up what’s on stage across the region. Broadway favorites, touring productions, and bold originals — and you know we have smart pre-theatre dining picks near each venue. From black box gems to big-house blockbusters, the talent here is the real deal.Pro tip: Chasing post-show bites? Old Ebbitt Grill’s kitchen serves until 1 AM. Curtain down, forks up, people! Arena StageA Good Day To Me Not To You: Through May 3 Where to EatDel Mar by Fabio TrabocchiLimaniMoonraker at the PendryPhilippe Chow Capital One HalMeredith Wilson's The Music Man: May 29-31 Where to EatFlore Cafe ModanOmeteo Starr Hill BiergartenStellina PizzeriaWren   Dupont UndergroundThe Lady Bird of St John - April 6 - 12A Streetcar Named Desire - April 20 - May 4Cabaret - May 14 -17 Where to EatCasamaraChikoIrongatePizzeria Paradiso The Pembroke Folger TheatreAs You Like It: March 10–April 12 Where to EatChikoThe Duck and the PeachParaisoQuill and Crumb Ford’s Theatre1776: March 13-May 16 Where to EatJaleoMoon RabbitSuccotash PrimeThe Riggs Hotel National TheatreNew show info coming soonWhere to EatCafé du ParcOld Ebbitt GrillThe OccidentalVue Rooftop at Hotel Washington Olney TheatreAppropriate: March 12 - April 26I&You The Musical: April 22 - May 24Please Underestimate Me: Carla Hall Solo Show: June 26 & July 9  Where to EatBrew BellyOlney StationSalt and VineScratch Kitchen Round House Theatre~updated shows coming soon~ Where to EatAventinoBlack’s Bar and KitchenCubano’sThe Salt Line Signature Theatre~updated shows coming soon~ Where to EatCarlyleCorso ItalianOur Mom EugeniaStellina Pizzeria Shirlington Studio TheatreJonah – March 11 - April 19Purlie Victorious - May 6 - June 21 Where to EatCork Wine Bar & MarketJane JaneLe DiplomateMallard Pearl Dive Oyster Palace Shakespeare Theatre Co.Hamnet - March 17-April 12 (Harman Hall)Eddie Izzards's Hamlet - March 22-April 5 (Klein Theater)Othello - May 19-June 28  Where to EatOyamelTonariRasikaZaytinya Synetic Theater~updated shows coming soon~ Where to EatBar CollineBeauty Champagne and Sugar BoutiqueNi HaoWater Bar Theatre JDC Theater Talk with Holly Twyford — through May 4, 2026 (Mondays) Where to EatEttoIron GateHank’s Oyster BarMallard Warner Theatre ~updated shows coming soon~ Where to EatCentral Michel RichardOlio e PiùThe HamiltonThe Henri Woolly MammothDana Tai Soon Burgess Dance Company - April 24-26 & May 1-3 Where to EatCentrolinaLucky DangerRasika

We at TheListAreYouOnIt.com are unabashed tea lovers. Give us a lovely setting, a silver pot of something steeped, a tower of sweets and savories, and a generous dollop of clotted cream, and we’re in our happy place. If you know us, you know we adore a long, leisurely afternoon tea with friends.And spring might just be the perfect season for it. With gardens coming back to life and longer afternoons ahead, there’s something especially charming about pausing for tea.Luckily, the DMV takes its tea seriously and there are plenty of places to raise your pinky and sip in style.Here’s where you’ll find us sipping an afternoon tea this spring:NEW & NOTEWORTHY TEASFairmont Washington DC: Usher in the spring with Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea in the Loggia overlooking the cherry blossom trees in the Courtyard. Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea, served on Friday, Saturday, and Sundays from March 20 through April 12 with seatings between 1:00 and 3:00 p.m. Executive Chef Jaime Montes de Oca and Executive Pastry Lyndsey Barton have collaborated on an enchanting menu of savory and sweet cherry delights, including pickled watermelon radish on sourdough, Hudson Valley duck prosciutto, sakura jelly cheesecake, Japanese panna cotta, and scones with clotted cream. Priced at $115 per adult, tea includes a glass of Domain Rosé Chandon or a cherry blossom cocktail.  Tea for children ages 5-12 is $65 each and includes sparkling cider.  Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea is exclusive of tax and gratuity. Cherry Blossom themed cocktails will also be available. For reservations for Cherry Blossom Afternoon tea, please click here. Park Hyatt Washington DC: Park Hyatt will celebrate the return of spring & cherry blossoms with the addition of tableside tea service in the Tea Cellar, which will be available on both Saturday and Sunday, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. The Tea menu offers pastries with accompaniments and seasonally inspired savory selections. Weekend afternoon tea service is priced at $125 per person, excluding tax and gratuity, which includes a freshly brewed pot of tea and a glass of Nicolas Feuillatte Sakura Rose Champagne.  Children between six and twelve will enjoy tea for $65 per person. Additional pots of tea can be ordered, ranging in price from $16 to $300.  Park Hyatt Washington D.C.’s Tea Cellar is home to one of the most unique and expansive tea collections in the United States, with over 30 rare, limited-production, single-estate teas, including teas from remote regions of China, Japan, Sri Lanka, Africa, South Korea, and the Himalayas, as well as herbal selections from Egypt. Willard Intercontinental: Celebrate spring with the Willard’s special Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea, returning this year in the Willard’s Peacock Alley and the Willard Tea Room. Through April 26, guests will be immersed in a seasonal celebration complete with elegant cherry blossom décor and the enchanting melodies of in-house harpist Kristen Jepperson. This year’s menu features specialty teas such as The Willard Cherry Blossom Blend, Spring Garden Green, Japanese Sencha, Sweet Lemon Chiffon, and White Peony Silver Needle, alongside savory bites like Japanese Egg Sandwiches, Lobster Tartlets, and Orange-Scented Cucumber Sandwiches. Signature scones and sweets like Matcha Lavender Roulade, Strawberry Vanilla Tarte, and Mango Ube Basket complete the offering, along with the seasonal Little Kyoto cocktail and optional caviar pairings. Children, vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free menus are also available for a fully inclusive experience. Available Friday - Sunday at noon and 2:30 p.m. in Peacock Alley; Wednesday - Sunday at noon and 2:30 p.m. in the tea room. $105 per adult, $120 with Champagne; $65 per child. For reservations, click here. Oasis Sushi & Listening Bar x Flore Café Tysons Collaboration: The 14-course progression features delicacies paired perfectly with Bellocq Tea Atelier teas. Highlights include: Lobster Salad Marie-Rose, Smoked Salmon Crêpe Roll, Sakura Cherry Scones, Hibiscus Guava Crème Brûlée, and two seasonal Japanese selections curated by Oasis Sushi & Listening Bar. Priced at $89 per person; Prosecco pairing additional $15 per person. Beginning March 21, Saturday and Sunday, 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Limited seating available; advanced-purchased tickets are required and can be booked exclusively via Resy, here.  Hello Betty: Sample a curated selection of premium teas, finger sandwiches, fresh-baked scones, and pastries. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply elevating your afternoon, tea service is an invitation to pause, sip, and indulge in something refined. A special children’s menu is available for guests ages 5–10. Be aware that Hello Betty will not accommodate children under five for tea. For more information, click here. Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea at CUT D.C.: Available through April 2026, this seasonal afternoon tea features smoked trout & cucumber, truffled egg salad croissant, and Maine lobster roll, followed by housemade scones and spring pastries like cherry blossom vacherin and coconut tart. Available with tea or coffee, or paired with Champagne or a French 75. $95 per person | $115 with Champagne; to book, click here. ALWAYS A GOOD IDEA: WHERE ELSE TO GET YOUR TEA ONThese tea spots are always steeping something wonderful:The Fairmont HotelHillwood Estate, Museum & GardensLaduréeLady CamelliaThe Park HyattThe PendryQuadrant at The Ritz-CarltonSt. Regis HotelSeasons at Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DCThe Tavern at The Henley ParkThe WillardZinnia

Photo: Jonni Scott Photography; Chef Ryan McIlwraith from Bosco Lamb BurgerApril is bringing the heat (and the lamb) to cities across the country, and while American Lamb Board’s Lamb Jam 2026 is a full-on national moment, let’s be honest, we’ve got our eyes (and appetites) firmly planted right here in Washington, D.C..Yes, Lamb Jam is taking over eight cities, from Atlanta to Seattle, but DC’s lineup? It’s stacked. Think chefs you already love,and a whole lot of creativity coming off the line.Throughout April, these chefs are showcasing American lamb in their own distinct ways as part of a citywide dine-around. Dishes are designed to be approachable (read: under $30), popping up on bar menus, happy hours, and small plates → aka your perfect excuse to make a whole month of it.And while diners can vote for their favorites and judges will weigh in behind the scenes, the real win here is getting to taste how each chef interprets American lamb right now.The DC Chefs Bringing the Lamb LoveHere’s who you’ll find leading the charge across the District:Jarrad Silver of Silver and Son’sRakesh Singh of Rasika West EndJames Robinson of Iron GateManu Carbone of Brasero & FloreriaElias Taddesse of MélangeRobbie Reyes of Lucky DangerRyan Moore of SababaWhat Happens NextAt the end of the month, one DC chef will take the top spot locally. Then it gets interesting: winners from each city go head-to-head, with East and West Coast champions crowned, and yes, bragging rights come with a year’s worth of American lamb.Winning chefs will host intimate Lamb Jam dinners later this summer, multi-course, lamb-focused evenings with wine pairings, butchery demos, and even a chance to meet the producers behind the product. It’s that full pasture-to-plate story we love.Why It Matters (and Why You Should Go Eat)Lamb Jam isn’t just about what’s on the plate. It’s about showcasing American lamb as a versatile, sustainable ingredient and connecting diners to the farmers and ranchers behind it. But let’s not overthink it, this is also your chance to eat really well across the city. Now the only question is, how many stops can you hit this month?