This Mother’s Day, let’s sprinkle a little extra joy (and maybe some bubbly) into the celebration. Whether you’re celebrating side by side or sending love from miles apart, there’s no shortage of ways to make Mom feel like the superstar she is. Think artisanal chocolates that melt hearts, spa treatments that soothe souls, and brunches, lunches, and dinners that turn every bite into a love letter. The DMV is bursting with ways to treat all the extraordinary moms and mother figures in our lives. We’ve rounded up all the best ways to make  Mama proud — because she deserves nothing less than a day filled with love, laughter, and maybe a mimosa (or two).All-Purpose: All-Purpose (Riverfront and Shaw) will gift moms complimentary bubbles (or NA option) alongside Chef Mike Friedman's brunch menus on Sunday, May 11, for Mother's Day. For more information, click here.All Set Restaurant & Bar: This Mother’s Day, show the amazing moms and moms-to-be in your life some love with a mouthwatering New England Clambake from the team at All Set Restaurant & Bar, Fryer’s Roadside Grill, and Money Muscle BBQ. They will handle the cooking, you just reheat, serve, and enjoy. Orders must be placed by Thursday, May 8th for pickup on Saturday, May 10th. To place an order, click here.Arrels: Treat Mom this Mother’s Day to an unforgettable Catalan-style feast with unlimited tapas, paella, grilled seafood, and indulgent desserts for just $55. For more information, click here.Bar Japonais: Celebrate mom all weekend long from May 9-11, join Bar Japonais on an unforgettable culinary journey, available during dinner service and for a special Sunday brunch from 12-3pm. Savor eight beautifully crafted courses (17 selections), showcasing the season’s finest ingredients, including exclusive caviar and wagyu. Enhance your experience with an optional beverage pairing, featuring premium sake, wines and craft cocktails, each designed to elevate every dish. Mother's Day guests will be treated to a complimentary toast! For more information, click here.Bistro Du Jour: Celebrate your love for mom in the City of Love! Visit Bistro Du Jour for a special Mother’s Day brunch on Sunday, May 11th for French fare and bubbly. Opt for their bottomless brunch option for just $33 to try a variety of their signature drinks before diving into a Croque Madame or Salad Niçoise. For more information, click here.The Boro: The Boro is hosting a vibrant, family-friendly celebration in honor of Mother’s Day on Saturday, May 10th from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Guests can enjoy a wide array of free activities, including picking up a complimentary mini bouquet from Array Florals, crafting personalized Mother’s Day cards and time capsules, and browsing local vendors like La Maison Clay and Paris Love Jewelry. The event also features live acoustic music by Mike Heuer, instructor-led fitness classes, glitter tattoos, bubble artistry, giveaways, and complimentary DermaGlow skincare consultations and treatments. Families can cool down with lemonade from Flower Child and take advantage of retail specials throughout The Boro, including brunch at Circa, Paris Baguette, or Flower Child. Attendees are encouraged to support March of Dimes through donations or by shopping from their NICU Family Support Wish List. To top it off, guests can enter a raffle for luxurious gift baskets and enjoy a floral photo installation throughout May. To register, click here.Buzz Bakeshop: Celebrate Mom with sweet and savory treats from Buzz Bakeshop this Mother’s Day! Preorder your favorites, from the Breakfast in Bed Box to our signature Cupcake Bouquet and full-size quiches. To place an order, click here.Caruso’s Grocery (Pike & Rose): Celebrate the most important woman in your life with an unforgettable Italian-American brunch in a warm, red sauce-style setting. Recently named one of Washingtonian’s top Mother’s Day brunches, Caruso’s is serving up chef-driven dishes like the Truffled Mushroom Omelette, crispy Cauliflower & Potato Hash, and signature Gnocchi alla Genovese—perfectly paired with a spritz or espresso martini. For more information, click here.Chang Chang: Chef Peter Chang will gift mother figures with a glass of prosecco or a special NA beverage during its unlimited dim sum brunch on Sunday, May 11th. The popular brunch menu features classic Chinese dim sum like Jade Vegetable Dumplings with cabbage, mushrooms, and celery; Shanghai Pork Soup Dumplings; Beef & Trfulle Baked Puff Pastry; Char Siu Bao, and more. The full menu is linked here. The menu is priced at $38 per person. For more information, click here.Compass Rose: Celebrate Mom with a brunch that travels the globe – no passport required. From 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Compass Rose will be serving their signature à la carte brunch menu in the main dining room, as well as in two unique outdoor spaces perfect for making the day extra special. Reserve a table on the Train Car Patio–a heated, open-air setting for parties of 2-8 inspired by international rail travel–or book La Cabaña, a cozy, semi-private outdoor oasis for groups of 4-8. Guests in all spaces can opt for the full à la carte menu or experience one of Compass Rose’s prix-fixe “Tour of the World” menus. To make a reservation, click here.Crimson Lane Vineyards: Celebrate Mother’s Day with an indulgent wine-country brunch at Crimson Lane Vineyards. In partnership with Melania’s Gourmet, they are offering a specialty Mother’s Day Brunch Board designed to elevate your tasting experience. Each board ($60, serves two) features a delicious spread: biscuit breakfast sandwiches with ham, cheese, and caramelized onion jam, spinach and feta quiche, cinnamon rolls, passionfruit-strawberry tarts, and hazelnut crunch bars. Perfectly paired with a tasting or wines by the glass or bottle. To make a reservation, click here.Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse: Treat mom to a delightful brunch from Davio’s special menu, including Tiramisu French Toast and their 55-Day Prime Aged Flat Iron Steak and Eggs. Guests can also enjoy their full dinner offerings throughout the day. The menu is available to-go as well. To make a reservation, click here.dLeña & dLeña ROJA: Celebrate Mother's Day with bottomless brunch at dLeña on Sunday, May 11. From 10am-3pm, dLeña brunch guests can enjoy endless plates of unique Mexican-inspired dishes and free-flowing cocktails including mimosas, bloody marias, margaritas, and more. All moms dining during brunch service will be given a flower. A la carte pricing is also available for food. For more information, click here.ElCielo: Celebrate Mother’s Day with an extraordinary 10–12 course tasting menu at ElCielo Washington, presented in partnership with the legendary Penfolds Bin series. Each course will be perfectly paired with a curated wine selection—featuring Bin 51, Bin 311, Bin 600, Bin 28, Bin 389, Grange, and Club Port—for an immersive culinary and wine experience like no other. The evening includes a special introduction from the ElCielo team and a Penfolds representative, followed by guided storytelling behind each pairing. Tickets cost $450 per person. To make a reservation, click here.Ellington Park Bistro: In honor of Mother’s Day, Ellington Park Bistro will offer 2 exclusive brunch dishes: the Queen's Breakfast with petite filet, crab, eggs, and smoky hollandaise, and a decadent French Toast Casserole with brown butter bread pudding. Available during brunch only. For more information, click here.El Taller del Xiquet: Indulge in an exceptional culinary experience at this Valencian gem in Glover Park. Choose from a thoughtfully curated prix fixe menu at $85, an outstanding value for a refined four-course journey, or explore the à la carte options to tailor your own meal. The prix fixe showcases the chef’s artistry with a vibrant Salpicón of clams, scallops and mussels, followed by the Fideuà de Llagosta, a lobster and mushroom fideuà prepared in the traditional Gandia style. For the main course, select between Llobarro, a delicate sea bass finished with fennel pollen and tomacat sauce or Carn I Ous, a standout S7 Wagyu paired with Spanish omelet foam and rich Espanyol sauce. Conclude with the Dolc, a beautifully composed dessert of almonds, nectarine cake and vanilla bean ice cream. For more information, click here.Goodstone Inn & Restaurant: James Beard-nominated Chef Paul Verica has crafted a luxurious multi-course Mother's Day Brunch featuring dishes such as Lobster Bisque, Garden Herb Crusted Rack of Lamb, and indulgent Coffee Dark Chocolate desserts. The menu ($140 per adult; $80 per child; optional $75 wine pairing) is available on Sunday, May 11th from 11:00 - 1:30 p.m. To make a reservation, click here.The Grill: The Grill is offering brunch for Mother’s Day, just in time for their latest floral garden activation. Pose for a photo opp with mom beneath an archway of pink roses, then sip and savor a waterfront brunch. From Royal Deviled Eggs w/ duck liver mousse and caviar to banana cakes and a lobster roll. For more information, click here.Hotel Heron: This Mother’s Day weekend, Hotel Heron is celebrating the power of care and connection that lives in all of us with its “Sweat + Sip + Shop” experience. Whether that’s honoring mom, lifting up the mother figures in life, or simply tuning into the inner nurturer within—the chic boutique hotel in Alexandria, VA is inviting all to a rooftop celebration full of movement, community, and good vibes on Saturday, May 10th. For more information, click here.Imperfecto: Head to MICHELIN-starred Imperfecto on Mother’s Day for a special Mediterranean brunch from Chef René González. Highlights include Tiger Praws (Lemon-butter sauce, Imperfecto Cholula, house Sourdough) and a Lobster Omelet (Organic Eggs, Maine Lobster, Arepa Andina), plus sweets like a Lemon Blueberry Soufra and premium add-ons like caviar and truffles. For more information, click here.Iron Gate: This Mother’s Day, Iron Gate is celebrating with a menu inspired by the incredible moms behind our team. Each dish is a tribute to the mothers, grandmothers, and women who raised us—with flavors as rich and memorable as their love. From heirloom beet salad with sesame-crusted feta to bread pudding French toast with rhubarb syrup and Texas sheet cake for dessert, every plate tells a story. For more information, click here.Jackie: Celebrate Mother’s Day in style at Jackie with their elegant Sparkling Brunch — a three-course prix-fixe menu ($75 per person) featuring your choice of appetizer, entrée, and dessert, plus a complimentary pastry & bread basket and a glass of mimosa. Enhance the experience with indulgent seafood bar options, bottomless Bellinis, or their signature Mimosa and Lambrusco Bars. For more information, click here.The Jefferson DC: The Jefferson DC will be celebrating the first lady in everyone's lives all weekend long with a decadent Mother's Day four-course brunch available for $140 per adult and $60 per child (12 and under) Saturday May 10th - Sunday May 11th. The Greenhouse, the luxury hotel's signature restaurant, is "in bloom" and adorned with cherry blossoms while the historic skylight is casting a pink glow for the season, creating the perfect setting to indulge in a special menu curated by Executive Chef Fabio Salvatore. To make a reservation, click here.JINYA Ramen Bar: Treat Mom to a delicious Mother’s Day meal at any JINYA location! On Sunday, May 11th, JINYA is saying thank you to all Moms by offering them a free mochi dessert on their special day, with Chocolate or Green Tea flavors to choose from. Pair with a glass of sparkling wine or any of JINYA’s refreshing cocktails for the perfect Mother’s Day celebration. For more information, click here.Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab: Celebrate Mother’s Day at Joe’s on Sunday, May 11th, with lunch and dinner service from 11:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. The regular menu will be available, along with Joe's Classic Three-Course Weekend Lunch for $42.95, featuring starters like Ahi Tuna Tartare and Stuffed Mushrooms, entrées such as Colossal Lump Crab Cake and Joe's Famous Fried Chicken, and dessert options including Key Lime or Havana Dream Pie. For more information, click here.Joon: Two-time James Beard semifinalist Chef Chris Morgan has conceptualized a new brunch menu at Joon just in time for Mother’s Day! Treat mom to new dishes including Sourdough French Toast with raspberry jam and lemon curd whipped cream, and Baghrir, North African Semolina Pancakes with orange blossom water honey, strawberry preserve, and pistachio amlou. In addition to a la carte options, unlimited plates are available for $55 per person along with brunch cocktails including a Mimosa Tower. To make a reservation, click here.Josephine: Celebrate Mother's Day on Sunday, May 11th with elegance and effervescence at Josephine’s Rosé Party Brunch! They are rolling out the pink carpet with a sparkling rosé Champagne tower—every mom will be welcomed with a complimentary glass from the tower to kick off the festivities. In addition to their classic brunch offerings, we’re serving a curated selection of five exquisite French rosés by the glass ($10–$18) and special one-day-only dishes like Lobster Salad with celeriac apple slaw ($16), Smoked Salmon and Asparagus with gribiche dressing ($19), and a dreamy Rose Vacherin dessert with vanilla ice cream and raspberry sorbet ($10). For more information, click here.JOY by Seven Reasons: For Mother’s Day, JOY by Seven Reasons in The Collective is offering a family-style brunch for $45 per person (groups of 4 and up) as well as an a la carte menu for both brunch and dinner. Mother’s Day will also be the debut of several new brunch dishes including a Croque Madame, Chilaquiles, and for dessert a Carrot Cake, Cinnamon Roll, and a Lemon Tartlet. For more information, click here.La Vie: Celebrate Mother’s Day with an elevated waterfront brunch experience at La Vie, now under the culinary direction of Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Delgado and Executive Chef Aseem Charan. This indulgent, multi-station brunch features a bountiful seafood display, premium carving station, and an artful dessert spread designed to impress. For more information, click here.Mallard: Celebrate Mom with a Southern-inspired brunch at Mallard! Every mom will be welcomed with a complimentary classic mimosa to kick off the festivities. Chef Hamilton is serving up the regular brunch favorites plus two exclusive specials: Cookies & Cream Waffles topped with Nutella, cocoa nib chantilly, and Harry’s Berries, and a Softshell Crab Benedict with charred tomato chow chow and country ham hollandaise. For more information, click here.Maydān: Brunch isn’t a regular thing at Maydān – but for Mom, they’re making an exception. This year’s $110 per person prix-fixe Tawle menu celebrates the mothers and grandmothers behind the Maydan Cookbook, with a shareable feast of seasonal salads, spreads, meat kebabs, and dishes like Swiss Chard M’tabbal and Shakshuka with tangy zhough and creamy labne. The full cocktail and wine list will be flowing, alongside non-alcoholic options, with Lebanese olive oil and signed cookbooks available as thoughtful, last-minute gifts. To make a reservation, click here.Mon Ami Gabi: Celebrate Mother’s Day at the beautifully renovated Mon Ami Gabi in Bethesda Row on Sunday, May 11th, with brunch from 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. and dinner from 3:00 - 9:00 p.m. Treat mom to her favorite French bistro classics like Smoked Salmon Benedict, Trout Almondine, and Steak Frites in a chic and charming setting. For more information, click here.Nobu: Treat the incredible women in your life to a special Mother's Day brunch at Nobu, featuring unlimited sushi, salads, pastries, chef stations, and desserts, all with live DJ entertainment and brunch cocktail specials. Priced at $90 per person and $45 for children, brunch runs from 11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. For more information, click here.The Omni Homestead Resort & Spa: This Mother’s Day, treat mom to an unforgettable getaway at The Omni Homestead Resort & Spa in the scenic Allegheny Mountains, where the weekend includes wellness walks, a vibrant market with local artisans, and special activities like flower wreath-making for kids. On Sunday, May 11th, enjoy an elegant brunch featuring exquisite dishes in a refined setting, making for a weekend full of cherished family moments and well-deserved relaxation. For more information, click here.Paraíso: Celebrate Mother’s Day at Paraíso with a brand new bottomless brunch menu for only $45 a person! Highlights include Avocado Huarache Toast Con Huevo, El Benedicto, and Tres Leches French Toast. For $10 a person, you can indulge in Bottomless Mimosas in a variety of fun flavors. Paraíso is treating all Moms to a free glass of sparkling to say thank you for all that they do. For more information, click here.Pendry DC: In celebration of Mother’s Day, Pendry DC will offer a special “Just For Mom” edition of their popular Boozy Tea service on May 10th. Guests can treat their mothers to a relaxing afternoon in Pendry’s airy second floor events space with sweet and savory bites, tea-based cocktails, as well as a complementary welcome glass of champagne and a surprise floral takeaway. Tickets are priced at $90 per person. To purchase a ticket, click here.Petite Cerise: Join celebrated Chef Jeremiah Langhorne for a special three-course brunch ($35) at Petite Cerise this Mother’s Day. Enjoy delicious french fare featuring the best ingredients from our Mid-Atlantic regions. For more information, click here.The Point: Guests can try four special dishes all day! The comforting Maryland Crab Soup with corn, lima beans, potatoes and tomato Old Bay broth. A Crispy Fried Softshell Sandwich, including pesto mayo, lettuce, tomato, pickle, fries and slaw or Oven-Roasted Sea Bass with Yukon Gold mashed potatoes, sugar snap peas, pearl onions, and lemon caper beurre blanc. Also, the Grilled Petite Filet & Crab Cake, served with Yukon Gold mashed potatoes, sugar snap peas, asparagus, baby carrots, remoulade and a red wine sauce. For more information, click here.Quadrant: Quadrant Bar & Lounge is welcoming families for afternoon tea on Mother’s Day! High tea seatings are available at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., or 3:30 p.m. ($98 per person). Chef Mile Montezuma’s afternoon tea menu will include sweet favorites like Chocolate Eclairs, Coconut White Chocolate Truffles, & Madeleines.Guess can also enjoy bites like a Lobster Salad Tart, Salmon Croissants, and Mushroom + Truffle Beignets, as well as a wide selection of hot teas, champagne, and cocktails are available. For more information, click here.The Roost: Celebrate Mother’s Day on Saturday, May 10th at The Roost’s Mother’s Weekend Garden Party – a whimsical afternoon tea celebrating moms with elegance, charm, and delightful treats. Enjoy dainty tea pastries from Buzz and Roost for $35/tray (includes a flower for Mom), and sip floral-infused tea from Spirit Tea for just $6 per pot. For more information, click here.RPM Italian: Celebrate Mother’s Day at RPM Italian from Thursday, May 8th - Sunday, May 11th, between 12:00 - 9:00 p.m. Enjoy the full à la carte menu of modern Italian favorites alongside specials like Pizza Bianco, Frutti di Mare, and Pistachio and Raspberry Cake. On Sunday, all moms will be treated to complimentary housemade chocolates. For more information, click here.Rustico: Celebrate the moms in your life with a brunch that’s as bold and beautiful as they are. Rustico is serving up a flavorful, family-friendly feast featuring standout dishes like Fried Green Tomatoes with Calabrian chili aioli, Shrimp & Grits, Smoked Ham & Eggs, and Grilled Lamb Chops. Top it off with bubbly and a slice of Carrot Cake — because she deserves nothing less. For more information, click here.The Saga: Chef Mile Montezuma and the Spanish favorite within The Ritz-Carlton DC, is offering a Mother’s Day brunch buffet with an omelet station, a carving station, and a selection of seafood, charcuterie & cheeses, salads, and bakery items for $119 for adults and $49 for children. For more information, click here.Seven Reasons: Join Seven Reasons for brunch on Mother’s Day from 11:00 - 3:00 p.m.! During brunch, a live saxophonist will perform throughout the restaurant. While guests listen to the live music, they can also enjoy the special brunch with dishes like Shakshuka & Queso Fundido, Corn Pancakes, a Cuban Sandwich, and a Breakfast Criollo Platter. For more information, click here.Smoke & Mirrors: Treat mom to a special three-course dinner for $65. Start with a refreshing Watermelon and Feta Salad, or Chilled Corn Soup. Then choose from the tender Herb-Roasted Lamb Chops, rich handmade Lobster Ravioli, or Grilled Sea Bass. For a sweet treat to finish off, the zesty Lemon Tart or Peach Cobbler will be available. For more information, click here.The Sovereign: Celebrate Mother's Day with a special brunch at The Sovereign! Enjoy our beloved classic brunch menu, plus a few extra touches to make Mom feel truly celebrated—including a complimentary glass of sparkling wine and a beautiful dried flower bouquet for every mom. For more information, click here.Summer House North Bethesda: Celebrate Mother’s Day with a sunny meal at Summer House on Sunday, May 11th, from 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. Whether you're stopping by for brunch or dinner, make it extra special by adding a bouquet of Petite Petals flowers to your table for $40. Mother’s Day-inspired cookies will be available at The Cookie Bar from Monday, May 5th - Sunday, May 11th. For more information, click here.Surreal: The National Landing hotspot will have several specials for Mother’s Day from Chef Luis Gonzalez including an Egg Benedict with poached eggs, english muffins, and house-made hollandaise accompanied by a choice of cured salmon, prosciutto, canadian bacon, or wild mushrooms. Other highlights from the brunch menu include a Tomato Puff Pastry Tart, Corn Cheddar Quiche, & Swirl Pancakes. For more information, click here.Tony & Joe’s: From 11-3pm, speciality dishes will be added to the brunch menu like Chicken & Waffles, made-to-order Belgian waffles, fried buttermilk chicken tenders, soft butter, maple syrup and watermelon. Also a speciality Egg Scramble with cherrywood bacon, toasted english muffin, soft butter, orange marmalade, fresh-cut melon. Guests can continue the celebrations with dinner dishes like Grilled Blackened Shrimp, served alongside lemon couscous, steamed asparagus, baby carrots, crunchy garlic butter, or Lemon Rosemary Roast Half Chicken with spinach parmesan risotto, charred tomatoes, balsamic, chicken jus, and red cress. For more information, click here.Truluck’s: Show your appreciation with an exceptional dining experience, paired with a timeless gift for $75. Treat her to a stunning Kendra Scott Ott Adjustable Chain Bracelet in Gold, beautifully paired with a delicate long stemmed rose while you dine. This modern, minimal bracelet offers a subtle sparkle and an adjustable fit, making it the perfect standalone piece or an elegant addition to any stack. To make a reservation, click here.Vermilion: Celebrate Mother’s Day on Sunday, May 11th at Vermilion with a heartfelt brunch inspired by the moms who raised us right. Our team asked the mothers in their lives what they really want to eat on their special day—and the result is a soulful, crave-worthy menu that blends comfort and creativity. From cinnamon rolls with mandarin glaze to a 24oz Roseda Farm porterhouse fit for a queen, every dish tells a story. For more information, click here.Westfield Montgomery: Westfield Montgomery is inviting the community to celebrate Mother’s Day with two special activations on Sunday, May 11th. Starting at 11:00 a.m., guests can create complimentary custom bouquets from the Calluna Flower Truck, stationed inside the mall, available while supplies last. The celebration continues with a high-intensity interval workout led by Barry’s Bootcamp Dupont Circle as part of the ongoing Shopping is My Cardio series. For more information, click here. Wildfire Tysons: Celebrate Mom on Sunday, May 11th, from 11:30 a.m. - 8:45 p.m. with all her Wildfire favorites, including the Wildfire Chopped Salad, Cedar Plank Salmon, and Horseradish Crusted Filet, available for both dine-in and carry-out. For a thoughtful takeout option, choose from the Nightly Specials menu: Sunday’s Spit-Roasted Turkey Dinner comes with mushroom-herb stuffing, cranberry relish, gravy, and redskin mashed potatoes. For more information, click here.Zinnia: This Mother’s Day, Zinnia is offering a special brunch menu. Highlights include Eggs Benedict, Blackened Shrimp and Heirloom Grits, Spring Vegetable Quiche, and more. Each table will also receive a special bread basket. Each guest can also enjoy complimentary juices, coffee, or hot tea and bottomless mimosas for just $60 per person. A special kids menu is available for kids 12 years and under for $35 per person. For more information, click here.801 Chophouse: 801 invites you to celebrate with their traditional Sunday brunch from 10:30-3pm, featuring Banana Foster French Toast, Seafood Frittata, Eggs Benedict four ways, Blueberry Lemon Crepes, and more. Plus, to keep the celebration going, they’re offering special Mother’s Day cocktails all weekend long. For more information, click here.

The RAMMYs are back, and now you get to weigh in. Public voting is officially open for the 2025 RAMMYS Awards & Gala, and it’s time to rally behind your favorite local spots. From killer cocktails to brunches worth waking up for, the people have the power(!) and you’ve got until May 31 to make your picks.The RAMMYS celebrate the best of the best in our region’s dining scene. And while the industry pros decide many of the categories, four fan-favorite awards are up to you, including Best Bar, Best Brunch, Hottest Sandwich, and Favorite Gathering Place.Head to nbcwashington.com/rammys or therammys.org to cast your vote and champion your go-to hangouts.Here are the finalists ready for your love:Best Bar of the YearThe Green ZonemetrobarService BarTune Inn Restaurant and BarRoyal Sands Social ClubBest Brunch of the YearJ. Hollinger's Waterman's ChophouseJosephineLe DiplomateSequoiaVera Cocina & BarHottest Sandwich Spot of the YearAmpersandwich at Shilling Canning Co.Queen Mother'sJettiesSoko ButcherYour Only FriendFavorite Gathering Place of the YearA Baked JointBalosChloeThe Dew Drop InnVagabond Bar and KitchenSo go on, make your voice heard — and maybe treat yourself to a few “research” meals along the way.

MEET THE VISIONARIES BEHIND BRANDDICT: VALENTINA STORY & MARITZA RONDÓN — Creative Marketing Isn’t Just Strategy, Its Soul. In a hospitality world that often leans into trends and templates, Valentina Story and Maritza Rondón are carving a different path, one defined by intentional storytelling, emotional resonance, and bold, identity-driven branding. Together, they are the powerhouse behind Branddict, a creative agency dedicated to helping food and hospitality brands not only stand out, but stay unforgettable. Valentina, a designer turned chef turned creative strategist, combines her background in graphic design, culinary arts, and food criticism to build immersive, meaningful brand concepts. Maritza, with deep experience in media, communications, and digital marketing, brings the storytelling to life online—ensuring that every pixel, post, and platform speaks with purpose.What unites them? A belief that hospitality is about connection—not just visuals or vibes, but the feeling you leave behind. In their Behind The Counter feature, "The Art of Standing Out: How Creativity Drives Hospitality Success," Valentina and Maritza explore why creativity,when rooted in honesty and soul, is the most powerful tool in any restaurateur or hotelier’s toolbox. The Art of Standing Out: How Creativity Drives Hospitality SuccessValentina Story and Maritza Rondon, Co-Founders of Branddict If there’s one thing we've learned from working in hospitality, it’s this:People don’t remember marketing copy, they remember how you made them feel. In an industry where new restaurants open every week and every hotel offers its version of “experiential luxury,” traditional marketing alone won’t cut it. It’s not about shouting louder—it’s about showing up with heart, purpose, and imagination. Creativity is what brings your brand to life and keeps guests coming back for more. Let’s Talk About Standing OutHospitality is noisy. Between Instagram feeds, TikTok trends, and never-ending ads, your audience is bombarded from all angles. So how do you break through? Creativity.Take MITA in Washington, DC. This vegetable-forward, Latin American restaurant could’ve gone the typical route pretty plates, soft lighting, and a few buzzwords about “sustainability.” But instead, they built a story grounded in love, identity, and cultural memory. From Lou Bernard’s evocative cocktails to Chef Miguel and Chef Tatiana’s homage to their Latin roots, every element feels intentional. MITA doesn’t just serve food it invites you into a conversation. If you’re only posting food photos and weekly specials, you’re doing the bare minimum. Push further. Find the why behind your concept—and lead with it. Memorable Experiences Begin with MeaningThe most unforgettable moments in hospitality aren’t always the most extravagant, they’re the most intentional. Consider ALMA Cocina Latina in Baltimore, which reimagines Venezuelan cuisine through a modern, elevated lens. Led by a visionary woman and Chef Hector Romero, ALMA creates deeply immersive dining experiences like spirit-paired dinners that connect guests to the cultural roots behind each bottle and plate. Our advice: focus on the personal and purposeful. Maybe it’s a dish inspired by your heritage or a heartfelt moment of hospitality—these are what turn meals into memories. Digital Isn’t Just a Channel, It’s a CanvasYour digital presence is often the first impression your brand makes. Treat it with the same creativity and care you bring to the plate.Whether it’s:• Partnering with local artists to reinterpret your brand• Sharing pre-service rituals on Instagram Stories• Letting your team shine through personality-driven content...people connect with people. At Branddict, we created a video series called “The Soul of the Kitchen”unscripted, heartfelt chef stories. The result? Some of the highest engagement our client had ever seen. Not because it was slick, but because it was honest. Creative Marketing Works, We’ve Seen ItWe don’t just preach creativity, we practice it. One of our favorite projects? MITA. From day one, we shaped the brand hand-in-hand with the chefs. Every texture, tone, and touchpoint reflected their vision. The digital strategy? Designed to create emotional resonance. And it worked. MITA’s community didn’t just follow they engaged, remembered, and shared. With clarity, creativity, and consistency, you don’t just build a brand—you build a legacy. To Our Hospitality ColleaguesIf you take one thing away from this:Creativity is your superpower. Use it. Tell your story. Make people feel seen. Be bold, be honest, and don’t be afraid to break the mold. Because at the end of the day, this business isn’t just about plates or pillows it’s about people. And when you lead with creativity, you don’t just stand out.You stay in their hearts. Let’s keep pushing this industry forward—beautifully, boldly, and with soul. 

May is officially Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month  and D.C. is turning up the volume with a full-on celebration of the communities, cultures, and cuisines that shape our city in the most delicious ways.From vibrant festivals to thought-provoking exhibitions, there’s no shortage of ways to get involved. But let’s be real, one of the best (and tastiest) ways to honor AAPI Heritage Month? Supporting the incredible AAPI-owned restaurants that fuel this city with flavor and creativity, This month (and every month, really), we’re showing love to some of our favorite spots that keep us coming back for more:- Anju- Any Day Now- Baan Siam- Chang Chang- Kyojin- Love, Makoto- Maketto- Mandu- Moon Rabbit- Onggi- Queen’s English- Sushiko- Sushi Taro- Thip Khao- TonariSo whether you're diving into Korean fried chicken, slurping Lao noodles, or sipping sake with sushi, make a point to eat, shop, and celebrate local this May.Click here for all the ways to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month across the DMV.

May is in full swing—and the DMV is blooming with flavor. Spring produce is showing off, and local chefs are leaning in with bright, seasonal dishes that feel just right. At TheListAreYouOnIt.com, we’re spotlighting the bites that celebrate this sweet spot of the season. Ready to taste what May’s made of?MARK YOUR CALENDAR: Tacos & Tequila: On May 17 from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm, you can have tacos & Tequila with a special event at Na's Park. Your ticket includes 12 tequila and cocktail tastings plus a free taco sample from some of the best in the game, including in-park favorite and reigning Tacos & Tequila champion Los Cincos Tacos. Sip on 90+ tequilas including Tapatio Tequila, Arette Tequila, La Medida and Macurichos, and more while savoring tacos from DC favorites like El Bebe, Taqueria Habanero, El Techo, and Taqueria Xochi. Plus, enjoy music from dueling DJs—DJ Rise and Mr. Styles.Get tickets here. LambJam: Get ready to jam out with your lamb out, because the 2025 Lamb Jam Happy Hour Tour is making its D.C. stop on Tuesday, May 21st at Autoshop in Union Market, and you don’t want to miss a bite. Presented by the American Lamb Board, Lamb Jam is a coast-to-coast celebration of the bold flavor and versatility of American lamb, spotlighting the chefs who know how to cook it best. After months of showcasing creative lamb bites at top restaurants, the Lamb Jam Happy Hour Tour brings all the heat (and the meat) together for one flavorful night. americanlamb.comNEW & NOTEWORTHY: Check Out Xiquet:  El Taller del Xiquet has introduced a series of new spring dishes. One of the standout additions to the starters is Fonoll, a beautifully balanced dish featuring grilled fennel, fennel pollen and romesco. Another being Vera, a vibrant combination of pan-seared Maine scallop, sepia, coconut milk and sherry-cured salmon roe. Lastly, the Crú is a must-try featuring delicate hamachi crudo, vibrant citrus segments and a silky yellow pepper sauce. eltallerdelxiquet.comThe Wharf’s La Vie Reopens: La Vie at The Wharf, has reopened with a renewed Mediterranean spirit, the addition of exciting culinary talent, and a fresh experiential approach that blends vibrant cuisine with celebration and culture.It features an immersive dining experience with live entertainment, and dishes crafted by Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Delgado alongside new Chef de Cuisine Aseem Charan. lavie-dc.com. Partners in Carbs: A new “carb bar” has opened up inside Buffalo & Bergen. This is a dream come true for Neil Dundee. Try dishes like the Lucifer $20 (Red Sauce, Onion, Salami, Pecorino, Parmesan, Hot Honey, and Chili Flakes) along with many other carb-related creations. 3501 Connecticut Ave NW; buffalobergendc.com Chefs on a Roll: Beresovsky’s Deli x a.kitchen+bar: Beresovksy’s Deli has launched their latest Chefs…On a Roll sandwich featuring Chef Eli Collins of a.kitchen + bar! Chef Eli Collins is the Executive Chef of a.kitchen+bar at Hotel AKA in Washington, D.C. (the newest location of the acclaimed Philadelphia restaurant), where his seasonal, French-inspired cuisine has earned him accolades such as Philadelphia Magazine’s Best Chef of 2022 and a “Three Bells” review from The Philadelphia Inquirer. A Scranton native, Collins honed his craft under Chef Daniel Boulud in New York before returning to Philadelphia to lead some of the city’s most acclaimed kitchens. His special Philly Roast Pork Banh Mi, made with Taylor’s Ham, Pork Shoulder Confit, Broccoli Rabe Slaw, Long Hot Pepper Mayo, Cilantro, and Fish Sauce Vinaigrette, will be available for the entire month of May. beresovskys.com Brunch is All Set (Brunch Alert): Celebrate Mother’s Day with brunch at All Set, the New England-inspired restaurant located in downtown Silver Spring. In addition to a take-home clam bake offering, the restaurant will serve a Clam Bake special ($55) and unlimited mimosa offering with the purchase of an entrée for moms on May 11th. To give the gift of a much-needed break, the restaurant will set up a craft table with additional staff to keep an eye on kids from 12pm until 3pm. A special photo backdrop themed for the occasion will also be present in the restaurant on Mother’s Day. allsetrestaurant.com Nepalese in DC: Himalayan Wild Yak has opened a second location in Norther Virginia. Named for the bovine indigenous to the Himalayan mountains of Tibet, Mongolia and Nepal, the wild yak is a healthy, lean alternative to beef. Chef Keshar Jarga explains that Nepal is a landlocked country between India and China, so its cuisine has influences from both of those cultures. 1010 N Glebe rd; Himalayanwildyak.com NOT NEW, BUT NOTEWORTHY: Supping at the Supper Club: Inspired by iconic dining and nightlife experiences in Mykonos, Dubai, and Saint-Tropez, Gaia Supperclub reimagines the supper club for a D.C. audience with world-class culinary offerings, live entertainment, and a transportive atmosphere that blurs the line between dinner and nightlife.The menu boasts dishes like Deep Fried Hummus, a Latin twist on refried beans with an airy mousse-like texture; Chicken Nuggets topped crème fraiche, caviar; and flakes of 24 karat edible gold; and a 1 ½ pound Tomahawk Ribeye served with truffle butter, chimichurri, and tiger sauce. 1025 Vermont Avenue NW; Gaia.comWest African Suya Sundays:  All Set Restaurant & Bar has recently launched a Suya Sundays pop-up series in collaboration with Suya Factory, a DMV-based street food concept lead by Samuel “DJ Chick” Mobit. From 4pm through 9pm each Sunday, Executive Chef Ed Reavis (All Set, Money Muscle BBQ, and Fryer’s Roadside) and DJ Chick will serve suya, a West African dish of marinated skewered meats cooked on a grill, alongside a variety of sides for takeout, delivery, and dine-in service. You will be able to enjoy Afrobeats from local DJ Etn as well as All Set’s full food and beverage menus during the pop-up. The current Suya Sundays menu offers a choice of three proteins, accompanied with sides of Pickled Onion, Red Pepper Sauce, and Plantains.  8630 Fenton Street, Plaza 5; allsetrestaurant.comFish Shop Opening: The Fish shop has opened founded by Iwan and Manuela Wirth of Hauser & Wirth – will open Fish Shop Washington on the Wharf. Fish Shop in Ballater, Scotland honors the traditions and heritage of the local community of which fishing is at the heart, and this ethos is being taken across the Atlantic to Washington, D.C. The menu will be led by the seasons to create a seafood focused offering, making use of what is abundant and available from the surrounding areas. Hero dishes from Fish Shop Ballater that fit in with these principles such as crab crumpets will feature alongside bar snacks and freshly prepared seasonal vegetable and meat dishes. Fish Shop will have its own fish preparation room and deal only with whole fish to minimize waste and to allow chefs to cure, dry and age fish. 610 Water Street SW; fishshopdc.comFabulous Flavors: In celebration of spring, Pitango Gelato will offer new and returning seasonal flavors at each of its seven locations. While supplies last, the gelateria will offer its new Chocolate Mint Chip, made with peppermint infused dark chocolate chips and milk chocolate gelato. On May 9th and in recognition of National Strawberry Month, guests can enjoy Strawberries and Cream gelato made with gently roasted fresh strawberries swirled with Fior di Latte gelato. Fior di Latte, which means “flower of milk” in Italian, is made with organic milk and cream provided by Pitango’s cows in Glen Arm, Maryland. pitangogelatoStart ‘Em Young: The 2025 Sur La Table Kids & Teens Summer Series is now open for registration! This year, the series will run for 14 weeks, from May 27-August 29, perfect for those summer months where kids (and parents) are trying to fill their days with something fun and educational. The Sur La Table summer cooking series is designed to send kids and teens on a culinary adventure. Whether your child is well-versed in kitchen techniques already or they’re completely new to cooking and baking, they’ll love this immersive experience filled with delicious foods and hands-on tasks. The 2025 series will focus on two main themes: baking and global cooking. Apply here. Caffè del Parco, an Italian Pop Up: Caffè del Parco, a seasonal Italian pop-up, is now open Fridays through Sundays from noon to 8:00 p.m., tucked just off the Willard InterContinental’s grand lobby in the elegant Lincoln Library. The pop-up’s name hints at its Italian roots—bringing la dolce vita to the heart of D.C. for a limited time only. They’ve crafted a multi-course menu featuring the soup of the day, risotto, handmade pappardelle, and a decadent dessert paired with thoughtfully selected Italian wines. 1401 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. 20004, USA; washington.intercontinental.comMarcus Is In the House: Acclaimed chef and restaurateur Marcus Samuelsson makes his debut in the nation’s capital with the opening of Sly, an elevated rooftop bar at The Morrow Hotel. Helmed by Executive Chef Anthony Jones, The menu, crafted by Samuelsson and Jones, will showcase local seafood, seasonal produce, and globally inspired flavors. The culinary experience highlights raw bites, shareable snacks, entrées, and treats. 222 M Street; marcusdc.comLocals Get the All Star: Whole Foods Market has just announced its 2024 Supplier All-Star Award recipients, and Laoban, based in DC, has been recognized as one of this year’s standout partners. Local chef Tim Ma and Patrick Coyne are the creators of the concept after falling in love with dumpling shops while teaching English in China after college. laobandumplings.comBar Angie  = Bistro Vibes: The team behind Dupont’s Balos, brings Bar Angie,  a new day-to-night bistro now open in the West End. Inspired by classic New York neighborhood spots and infused with European charm, Bar Angie serves crave-worthy fare—think a luxe Wagyu French Dip, Fried Cream Cheese Caesar, and the over-the-top “Angie Chop Martini,” a crispy pork chop topped with peppers and Parm. At its heart, Bar Angie is a martini bar, featuring an extensive cocktail list and a curated lineup of espresso martinis in partnership with NYC’s For Five Coffee Roasters. Designed with moody lighting, and a Parisian-style zinc bar, Bar Angie offers indoor and outdoor patio seating. Adding to the ambiance: live jazz several nights a week. Open daily for lunch and dinner, with brunch on weekends. Located at 2300 N Street NW, for more information visit, theangierestaurants.comAlbi 2.0: Chef Michael Rafidi’s Michelin-starred Albi is back, did you know it was gone?  After a two-week refresh, the Navy Yard restaurant reopens with a reimagined space and an evolved menu that dives even deeper into Rafidi’s Palestinian-American roots. The highlight? A completely spontaneous five-course Sofra experience ($165) that’s created in real time through guest-kitchen dialogue—no set menu, just seasonal creativity and hospitality. The à la carte menu also gets a seasonal refresh, with standout dishes like smoked duck mujadarra, rabbit shish barak, and a crab-studded maqluba. Behind the bar, expect Levantine-inspired cocktails and an irreverent wine list spotlighting bold producers from the Middle East and Mediterranean. The interiors, redesigned in collaboration with The Klein Agency, now feature a cocktail lounge, expanded bar, and an immersive open kitchen—all anchored by powerful Palestinian artistry from Jordan Nassar. Dinner service runs Tuesday–Sunday. Reservations via Resy. More at www.albidc.com and @albiwashdc.

Get ready to jam out with your lamb out, because the 2025 Lamb Jam Happy Hour Tour is making its D.C. stop on Tuesday, May 21st at Autoshop in Union Market, and you don’t want to miss a bite.Presented by the American Lamb Board, Lamb Jam is a coast-to-coast celebration of the bold flavor and versatility of American lamb, spotlighting the chefs who know how to cook it best. After months of showcasing creative lamb bites at top restaurants, the Lamb Jam Happy Hour Tour brings all the heat (and the meat) together for one flavorful night.And yes, this year’s D.C. chef lineup is straight fire. Prepare your palate for lamb-forward creations from:Chef Rakesh Singh of RasikaChef Erik Bruner-Yang of MakettoChef Ryan Moore of SababaChef Simon Lam of Tiger ForkChef Amy Brandwein of CentrolinaChef Michael Costa of ZaytinyaChef Harrison Dickow of EllēChef Demetri Mechelis of Martha Dear Expect an evening full of juicy bites, craft sips, live music, and American Lamb swag. You’ll even get to vote for your favorite dish to help crown the D.C. Lamb Jam champ.A portion of the proceeds supports World Central Kitchen, the global nonprofit founded by Chef José Andrés, delivering fresh meals to communities in need. For tickets & info here. 

Spring has officially sprung—and DC’s bars are feeling fresh. Think citrus, herbs, and all the floral flair, as bartenders mix up cocktails that are light, bright, and just a little bit flirty. We’re rounding up the sips that are perfect for patio season and beyond. Ready to toast to May? We thought so.And speaking of patios - see our Patio Pleasure Round Up & our Up On The Roof for all your DMV al fresco dining.  MARK YOUR CALENDAR Tacos & Tequila: On May 17 from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm, you can have tacos & Tequila with a special event at Na's Park. Your ticket includes 12 tequila and cocktail tastings plus a free taco sample from some of the best in the game, including in-park favorite and reigning Tacos & Tequila champion Los Cincos Tacos. Sip on 90+ tequilas including Tapatio Tequila, Arette Tequila, La Medida and Macurichos, and more while savoring tacos from DC favorites like El Bebe, Taqueria Habanero, El Techo, and Taqueria Xochi. Plus, enjoy music from dueling DJs—DJ Rise and Mr. Styles.Get tickets here. Wines of the Shenandoah: Discover Peak Shenandoah - A Collective Wine Tasting Event to have the opportunity to meet with winemakers and owners from multiple vineyards in one location. Peak Shenandoah Wine Region announced its upcoming collective wine showcase event, “Discover Peak Shenandoah - A Collective Wine Tasting Event”, to be held Sunday May 18, 2025, from 11:00am to 1:00pm, at Fox Meadow Vineyards & Winery 3310 Freezeland Rd, Linden, VA 22642.Virginia Wine Festival: Saturday, May 31 (4–9 PM) & Sunday, June 1 (12–5 PM), 2025. Taste the best of Virginia wine at the Commonwealth’s premier wine event, featuring over 200 wines from 30+ top wineries, live music, gourmet food, and artisan shopping—all just steps from the Silver Line Metro. This year’s festival is made even more exceptional with the participation of the Neighborhood Restaurant Group, curating elevated culinary offerings that perfectly complement the region’s finest wines. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just in it for a good time, this is your ultimate weekend to sip, savor, and celebrate. Tickets are available here. SommCon: SommCon, the leading conference for wine and spirits education, is making its highly anticipated return to the East Coast with the SommCon DC Summit, taking place June 2-3, 2025, in partnership with The SOMM Journal. Each day of the SommCon DC Summit features two wine-tasting seminars and a curated wine-paired lunch. Sessions offered on June 2 differ from those offered on June 3 and attendees have the option to attend one or both days of the summit. NEW & NOTEWORTHY: Rose (Garden) All Day: Enjoy waterfront views with rosé in hand at The Grill’s new Rose Garden. The patio will be decked out for spring and summer with a new floral backdrop for the perfect setting to sip on rosé and watch the boats pass by on The Wharf. They offer 5oz, 7oz and 8oz pours, and their nonalcoholic spritz is perfect for those seeking a fun and refreshing mocktail. 99 Market Square; The grill.comStrawberry Season: Ilili DC just launched the new spring cocktail menu, conceptualized by Beverage Director Rachid Hdouche. Highlights include the Strawberry & Cream Gin and Tonic made with gin, strawberry cream cordial, and Mediterranean tonic and Carajillo Blanco, made with brown buttered tequila, licor 43, and orange bitters. Ilili.comVegetal Vibes: Beverage Director for The Popal Group, Suzy Critchlow, just launched several new cocktails for this spring at Lutece. Highlights include the shaken “Faux Pois” (vodka, snap peas, forthave genepy, fusion verjus blanc, lemon), “The Sweetest Season” (rye whiskey, pineau de charantes, mole bitters, blackberry & basil), & the “Forager’s Gibson” (gin, dry vermouth, orange bitters, ramp oil & pickled ramps). 1522 Wisconsin Ave NW; Lutece.comFrozen Fields: Frozens are back at Pascual. Beverage Director for The Popal Group, Suzy Critchlow, just launched new frozens at the Capitol Hill favorite including a signature Frozen Mango Margarita (tequila, mango, curcao, lime) ($17). Other highlights throughout the season will include a take on Frosé and variations based on produce seasonality. Plus, Pascual just opened up their covered patio for the season. 732 Maryland Ave; pascual.comTableside Kakigori Cocktails, Yes Please Celebrate summer in the District at Moonraker, the Japanese-inspired rooftop bar and lounge located atop Pendry Washington, D.C. - The Wharf, with the all-new weekend series Suntory Daytime Socials. Every Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm, you can enjoy summer spins from live DJs featuring blends of Japanese city pop, nu-disco and chill jazz funk, and cool down with Moonraker’s new tableside Kakigori Cocktails, a Japanese shaved ice treat spiked with Suntory Japanese spirits. The menu currently features three $40kakigori cocktails, each of which is made and served tableside by Moonraker’s staff exclusively on Saturdays and Sundays. 655 Water Street; Moonraker.comNominate the Bubbliest : Bureau du Champagne, USA has officially opened nominations for the fourth annual Top 10 Bars and Restaurants for Enjoying Champagne list, inviting Champagne lovers, hospitality professionals, and the broader wine and culinary community to nominate their favorite establishments across the United States. Nominate here. Cocktails in the Lobby: Tory Pratt, founder of DC based Pratt Standard Cocktail Company, is eager to bring unique recipes to Lobby Bar’s cocktail and martini program. The House Dirty Martini uses caper brine for a unique twist, while the Specialty Dirty Martini features an olive oil wash and oyster brine. The Earl Grey Arnold Palmer uses Bulleit Bourbon, Pratt Standard’s ‘ Earl Grey Vanilla Syrup’ and lemon. A variety of other cocktails, wines and beers round out the beverage options. 224 7th Street; LobbybarShake It Up, St Regis Style: The St. Regis Washington, D.C. has launched a private cocktail classes led by the St. Regis Bar’s expert bartenders. As a nod to the Kentucky Derby, the inaugural class will invite budding mixologists to learn how to make the bar’s spin on the Mint Julep. marriott.comBubbles & Whiskey All Weekend: Fairmont has launched a West End Weekends promotion. Every Friday from 4pm – 7pm, you can enjoy ‘Bubbles & Bites’ – a glass of premium champagne and 3 carefully curated canapés by our culinary team for $40. 2401 M Street, NW; fairmont.comTea from Thi: Moon Rabbit's Bar Director Thi Nguyen’s new Spring cocktail list boasts flavors of the season intertwined with Vietnamese ingredients. Drinks include the Xí Muội, aka Grandma’s Candy Jar made with butterfly pea-infused yobo soju, salted plum, rice paddy oleo saccharum and lime, as well as their Chi Pha made with Barsol pisco, Ming river Baijiu, lacto-fermented pineapple milk cordial, and kinh giới red wine granita. 927 F St NW; moonrabbitdc.comNOT NEW, BUT NOTEWORTHY: Irish Rebranding: Sazerac's recently-acquired Irish Whiskey Distillery has changed it's name to Hawk’s Rock Distillery. The name change reflects Sazerac Company’s vision for the future of Irish Whiskey – the art and science of blending, innovation and respect for Sligo’s rich heritage. Named after a prominent outcrop in the Ox Mountains that inspired Nobel Prize winning poet William Butler (W.B.) Yeats’ play “At the Hawk’s Well”, Hawk’s Rock Distillery aims to become a global hub for Irish Whiskey, while offering a gateway to explore the rich traditions of Sligo and the surrounding region. HawksRock.comCocktail Shake Up at Serenata: Serenata is shaking up spring with a fresh lineup of bold cocktails inspired by Latin American and Caribbean flavors. From smoky, spirit-forward sips like the Alejandro (mezcal, Brugal Mamajuana, Campari, and allspice-cinnamon smoke) to tropical, island-inspired pours like The Ackee Way (Ten to One Rum, banana, raisin, ackee, and ginger-lime), the new cocktail menu is sure to be a good one. 1280 4th St NE, Washington, D.C.; serenatadc.comThe Cellar Club: Goodstone Inn & Restaurant has introduced The Cellar Club, a new members-only program offering special access to expertly curated wines handpicked from premier vineyards worldwide, typically reserved for the most distinguished private collections. Sign up here. Caribbean Heat Gets Cool (Happy Hour Alert): St. James has a new happy hour. For happy hour, you can enjoy specialty cocktails such as the Dark & Stormy ($10) made with rum, lime, and ginger beer, and the Smokin’ Mirror ($10) served with mezcal, LilletBlanc, and Luxardo Bitter Bianco. Rail spirits with mixers are available for $9 and select wines are also available for $9. 2017 14th St. NW; stjames-dc.comDid Somebody Say Free & Bottomless Brunch Cocktails? (Brunch Alert): Chef David Bacot's full brunch menu (including Housemade Cinnamon Rolls, Steak & Eggs, PBELT with pork belly, fried egg, romaine lettuce & cilantro mayo, and much more) now comes with free bottomless brunch cocktail: guests can opt in to receive complimentary bottomless brunch cocktails (mix-and-match Aperol Spritzes, Mimosas, and Bloody Marys) for 2 hours with the purchase of any brunch entree or sandwich. boundarystonedc.comTulum-Inspired Oasis: Perched atop Hotel Nell, Treehouse is an outdoor, Tulum-inspired oasis serving up handcrafted cocktails, elevated bites, and more. They have happy hour deals available all day Monday, and Tuesday - Friday from 5:00pm - 7:00pm. The deals include $8 Classic Margaritas, and more. 411 New York Ave NE; hotelnelldc.comTiki on 18th Gets a New Look: and a Filipino Soul — Adams Morgan’s beloved Tiki on 18th is back with a full-on glow-up. The tropical two-story hangout is now a vibrant fusion of Filipino flavors, island vibes, and nightlife energy, thanks to a major rebrand from DC hospitality stars Jo-Jo Valenzuela and Oscar Guardado. Expect a revamped menu of bold Filipino-inspired dishes (yes, Jo-Jo’s Pansit is back), next-level tiki cocktails with a modern twist (hello, Pistachio Mustachio and Gin Pom Elite), and late-night DJ sets to keep the vibes strong. Designed by Naii Vegas of Creative Buildr Studio, the space is all lush greenery, bamboo, and cozy corners. More at tikion18th.com | Follow @tikion18dc

When the weather turns warm, we’re heading up, way up. The DMV’s rooftop scene is serving high vibes and even higher views. Whether you're sipping cocktails above the city lights or brunching under a wide-open sky, we've got your golden hour covered. This list is your passport to the rooftops worth climbing for — think panoramic showstoppers where the drinks are cold, the menus are hot, and the views are chef’s kiss.Looking to stay grounded? Click to see our 2025 guide to patio dining across the DMV. 801: 801 Florida Avenue NW; 801dc.com Amazonia: 920 Blagden Alley NW; causadc.com ART DC: 333 G Street NW; artrooftops.comBetsy: 514 8th Street SE (Back alley); thebetsyusa.com Buena Vida Gastrolounge: 2900 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington; buenavidagastrolounge.com Ciel Social Club: 601 K Street NW; cielsocialclub.com Colada Shop: multiple locations; coladashop.com CUT Above at The Rosewood: 1050 31st Street NW; rosewoodhotels.com Deck 11 at Yotel: 415 New Jersey Avenue NW; deck11rooftop.comThe Delegate: 901 L Street NW; thedelegatedc.comEl Techo: 606 Florida Avenue NW; eltechodc.comHell's Kitchen: 652 Wharf Street SW; gordonramsayrestaurants.comHi-Lawn: 1309 5th Street NE; hilawndc.comHive Bar in The Hive Hotel: 2224 F Street NW; hotelhive.comHotel Heron: 415 New Jersey Avenue NW; hotelheron.comHush Rooftop Bar: 1430 Rhode Island Avenue NW; viceroyhotelsandresorts.com The Imperial: 2001 18th Street NW; imperialdc.comIvy City Smokehouse: 1356 Okie Street NE; ivycitysmokehouse.comJack Rose Dining Saloon: 2007 18th Street NW; jackrosediningsaloon.com La' Shukran: 417 Morse Street NE; lashukran.comLady Bird Rooftop Bar at Kimpton Banneker: 1315 16th Street NW; thebanneker.comLimani: 670 Wharf Street SW; limani.com/washingtonLost Society: 2001 14th Street NW; lostsociety-dc.com  Lucha Rosa at The Moxy: 1011 K Street NW; atlasrestaurantgroup.com/properties/lucha-rosa Madam’s Organ: 2461 18th Street NW; madamsorgan.comMoonraker at the Pendry: 655 Water Street SW; pendry.comO-Ku DC: 1274 5th Street NE; o-kusushi.com  Officina: 1120 Maine Avenue SW; officinadc.comThe Perch at The Watermark: Dog friendly; 1805 Capital One Drive, Tysons; capitalonecenter.com/the-perch Perry’s: 1811 Columbia Road NW; perrysam.com Pupatella: Varies; pupatella.com Roofers Union: 2446 18th Street NW; roofersuniondc.com  Roof Terrace Restaurant: 2700 F Street NW; resy.com/rtr-at-the-kennedy-center  The Rooftop DC: 476 K Street NW; therooftopdc.comThe Rooftop at The Graham: 1075 Thomas Jefferson Street NW; thegrahamgeorgetown.comRooftop at the Riggs: 900 F Street NW; riggsdc.comSalazar: 1819 14th Street NW; salazardc.com  Sauf Haus Bier Hall: 1216 18th Street NW; saufhausdc.com  Sly at The Morrow Hotel: 222 M Street NE; marcusdc.comSmoke & Mirrors: 867 New Jersey Avenue SE; smokeandmirrorsrooftop.comSUMMIT at The Conrad: 950 New York Avenue NW; conradwashingtondc.comTakoda: 715 Florida Avenue NW; takodadc.com   Tiki TNT: 1130 Maine Avenue SW; tikitnt.com Top of the Gate at The Watergate Hotel: 2650 Virginia Avenue NW; thewatergatehotel.com  Treehouse: 411 New York Avenue NE; treehouseunionmarket.com Vagabond: 1836 18th Street NW; vagabonddc.com The Ven at Embassy Row: 2015 Massachusetts Avenue NW; thevenembassyrow.com VUE at Hotel Washington: 515 15th Street NW; thehotelwashington.comWhiskey Charlie: 975 7th Street SW; whiskeycharliewharf.comWild Days at The Eaton: 1201 K Street NW; wild-days-dc.com Wilson Hardware: 2915 Wilson Boulevard; wilsonhardwareva.comYara at Washington Marriott Capitol Hill: 175 L Street NE; @yara_caitol_hill12 Stories at the Intercontinental: 75 District Square SW; 12storiesdc.com

Once the temperature hits 70 in the DMV, it’s official: patio season has begun. Everyone’s racing outside to soak up the sun and sip something chilled. Whether you’re into cozy courtyards, bustling sidewalks, or leafy garden hideaways, this list is all about patio perfection. We’ve rounded up the best outdoor dining the DMV has to offer.Looking to take things to new heights? We've got a whole separate list for that!  Check out our Up On The Roof roundup for the ultimate rooftop experiences.600T: 600 T Street NW; 600tdc.com a.kitchen+bar: 1010 New Hampshire Avenue NW; akitchenandbardc.comAl Dente: Dog friendly; 3201 New Mexico Avenue NW; aldentedc.com  Alfreda: 2016 P Street NW; alfredadc.comAll Purpose: 79 Potomac Avenue SE; allpurposedc.com All Set: Dog friendly; 8630 Fenton Street, Silver Spring; allsetrestaurant.comAlta Strada: multiple locations; altastradarestaurant.com  Anju: 1805 18th Street NW; anjurestaurant.comApéro: 2622 P St NW; aperodc.comArt & Soul: Dog friendly; 415 New Jersey Avenue NW; artandsouldc.comAstro Beer Hall: Dog friendly; 4001 Campbell Avenue, Arlington; astrobeerhall.com Bar Betsie: 1328 4th Street NE; barbetsiedc.comBastille: 606 N. Fayette Street, Alexandria; bastillerestaurant.com Big Buns: Dog friendly; Locations vary in Northern Virginia; eatbigbuns.comBistro du Jour: 99 District Square SW; bistro-dujour.comBlue Duck Tavern: 1201 24th Street NW; blueducktavern.comBourbon Steak: 2800 Pennsylvania Avenue NW; bourbonsteakdc.comBrasserie Liberte: Dog friendly; 3251 Prospect Street NW; libertedc.com Café Riggs: 900 F Street NW; riggsdc.comCalico: 50 Blagden Alley NW; calicodc.comCentrolina: 974 10th Street NW; centrolinadc.com Chaplin's: 1501 9th Street NW; chaplinsdc.com Cheesetique: 2411 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria; cheesetique.comThe Commentary: Dog friendly; 801 N. Glebe Road, Arlington; thecommentaryarl.comCork: Dog friendly; 1805 14th Street NW; corkdc.com Corso: 4024 Campbell Avenue, Arlington, VA; corsoitalian.com Crooked Run Fermentation: 22455 Davis Dr #120, Sterling, VA; crookedrunfermentation.com The Dabney: 122 Blagden Alley NW; thedabney.comDacha: Dog friendly; Shaw & Navy Yard; dachadc.com Daru: 1451 Maryland Avnue NE; darudc.comDauphine's: 1100 15th Street NW; dauphinesdc.comDel Mar: 791 Wharf Street SW; delmardc.com dLeña: 476 K Street NW; dlenadc.com Easy Company: 98 Blair Street SW; easycowharf.comElectric Cool-Aid: Dog friendly; 512 Rhode Island Avenue NW; electriccool-aid.comFairmont Courtyard Bar: Dog friendly; 2401 M Street NW; fairmont.com/washington Fiola Mare: 3100 K Street NW; fiolamaredc.com The Fountain Inn: Dog friendly; 1659 Wisconsin Avenue NW; fountaininndc.com Garden District: 1801 14th Street NW; gardendistrictdc.com Grazie Nonna: 1100 15th Street NW; grazienonnaxoxo.comHell's Kitchen: 652 Wharf Street SW; gordonramsayrestaurants.com Hen Quarter Prime: 2121 First Street SW; henquarterprime.comHeurich House: 1307 New Hampshire Avenue NW; heurichhouse.orgHook Hall: 3400 Georgia Avenue NW; hookhall.comImmigrant Food: multiple locations; mmigrantfood.comIron Gate: 1734 N Street NW; irongaterestaurantdc.com  Joon: 8045 Leesburg Pike, Vienna; eatjoon.comJoy by Seven Reasons: Dog friendly; 5471 Wisconsin Avenue, Chevy Chase; sevenreasonsgroup.com King Street Oyster Bar: NoMa, City Ridge, Potomac; kingstreetoysterbar.comLapis: 1847 Columbia Road NW; lapisdc.com Le Diplomate: 1601 14th Street NW; lediplomatedc.comLulu’s Wine Garden: 1940 11th Street NW; luluswinegarden.comLupo Marino: 40 Pearl Street SW; lupomarinodc.comLupo Verde: 1401 T Street NW; lupoverdedc.com Maker's Union: Dog friendly'; Arlington, Reston, The Wharf; makersunionpub.comMaketto: 1351 H Street NE; maketto1351.comMasseria: 1340 4th Street NE; masseria-dc.commatchbox: Dog friendly; Locations vary; matchboxrestaurants.com Matt + Tony's: 1501 Mt. Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA; mattandtonysva.comMaxwell Park: 1336 9th Street NW; maxwellparkdc.comMGM National Harbor: 101 MGM National Avenue, Oxon Hill, MD; mgmnationalharbor.comMidlands: Dog friendly; 3333 Georgia Avenue NW; midlandsdc.com Milk & Honey: Bowie, College Park, Fairfax; milknhoneycafe.comMi Vida: 98 District Square SW; mividamexico.com  MXDC Cocina Mexicana: 1610 14th Street NW; mxdcrestaurant.comNina May: 1337 11th Street NW; ninamaydc.comOld Town Pour House: 212 Ellington Boulevard, Gaithersburg, MD; oldtownpourhouse.com  Ometeo: 1640 Capital One Drive, Tysons; ometeotexmex.comOpal: 5534 Connecticut Avenue NW; opal-dc.comOpaline Bar & Brasserie: Dog friendly; 806 15th Street NW; opalinedc.comOttoman Taverna: Dog friendly; 425 I Street NW; ottomantaverna.com Pascual: 732 Maryland Avenue NE; pascualdc.comPatty O's: 389 Main Street, Washington, VA; pattyoscafe.comPerry's: 1811 Columbia Road NW; perrysam.com Petite Cerise: 1027 7th Street NW; petitecerisedc.comPhilippe Chow: 653 Wharf Street SW; philippechow.comPiccolina da Centrolina: 963 Palmer Alley NW; piccolinadc.com The Point: 2100 2nd Street SW; thepointdc.com Pop Fizz Bar: 2108 Vermont Avenue NW; popfizzdc.comPrimrose: 3000 12th St NE; primrosedc.comProst: 919 5th Street NW; prostdc.comPupatella: 1801 18th St NW; pupatella.comQ Street at Hank’s Oyster Bar: 1624 Q Street NW; hanksoysterbar.com/dupont-circle  Queen's English: 3410 11th Street NW; queensenglishdc.comResidents DC: 1306 18th Street NW; residentsdc.comThe Royal: 501 Florida Avenue NW; theroyaldc.comThe Rub Chicken & Beer: 801 King Street, Alexandria, VA; cluckinhot.com The Salt Line: Arlington; Bethesda; Navy Yard DC; thesaltline.com  Seamore's: 2815 Clarendon Blvd, Arlington, VA; seamores.comSfoglina: Downtown DC; Rosslyn, VA; Van Ness Street NW; sfoglinapasta.com   Shaw’s Tavern: 520 Florida Avenue NW; shawstavern.comShilling Canning Co.: 360 Water Street SE; shillingcanning.com Sonny's Pizza: 3120 Georgia Avenue NW; sonnyspizzadc.comSt Anselm: 1250 5th Street NE; stanselmdc.com Steak Frites DC: 1324 H Street NE; stabledc.comStellina: Mt Vernon Triangle; Tyson's; Union Market; stellinapizzeria.com Supra: 1205 11th Street NW; supradc.com Taco Bamba: Some dog friendly; Locations vary; tacobamba.comTaberna del Alabardero: 1776 I Street NW; alabardero.com THRōW Social D.C.: 1401 Okie Street NE: throwsocial.com Tony & Joe’s: 3000 K Street NW; tonyandjoes.comUnconventional Diner: Dog friendly; 1207 Ninth Street NW; unconventionaldiner.com Vagabond: 1836 18th Street NW; vagabonddc.com Villa Yara: 2815 M Street NW; villayaradc.com Zaytinya: 701 9th Street NW; zaytinya.comZeppelin: Dog friendly; 1544 9th Street NW; zeppelindc.com

Spring is in the air—and DC is bursting with things to do. The days are longer .. yea! The weather’s warmer … double yea! The city is coming alive with fresh energy that includes outdoor festivals and art pop-ups to garden strolls and live action theatre, the team at TheListAreYouOnIt.com has rounded up the best ways to shake off winter and soak in the season. So swap that scarf for sunglasses—it’s time to make your spring plans bloom. Museum VisitsNational Building Museum: The National Building Museum has extended its Frank Lloyd Wright’s Southwestern Pennsylvania exhibition through Sunday, October 5, 2025. This exhibition is a journey into the famed architect’s mind, articulating—for the first time—his broader creative vision. Presenting both realized and unrealized projects Wright designed for the Southwest Pennsylvania region from the 1930s through the 1950s, the exhibition examines how Wright’s vision of the future might have impacted urban, suburban, and rural landscapes. Where Else You'll Find UsBethesda Fine Arts Festival (Mark Your Calendar): The 2025 Bethesda Fine Arts Festival will be held May 10 & 11, 2025 and will feature fine art created by 120 of the nation’s best artists, live entertainment and Bethesda restaurants. Find out more info here. Adams Morgan Outdoor Art Gallery: Adams Morgan will soon become your own personal art gallery thanks to the AdMo Art Walk, a free, fun way to experience art brought to you by the Adams Morgan Partnership BID and The DC Arts Center in collaboration with local artists and neighborhood businesses. Each Saturday and Sunday throughout the event, The DC Arts Center will be offering guided walking tours of the AdMo Art Walk for just $5, making brief stops at each location to discuss the artwork, artist, and local businesses. 2438 18th Street NW; dcartscenter.orgDistillery & Gristmill Tours: These guided tours allow you to see the distillery where George Washington made his whiskey and the gristmill that produced thousands of pounds of flour and cornmeal a day. If you're not planning to visit Mount Vernon and only wish to tour the distillery and gristmill, purchase a $10 tour ticket. Info here. Bethesda Film Festival: Bethesda Film Festival is back in town. These films, and the filmmakers, will be at Landmark's Bethesda Row Cinema on Friday, April 4 and Saturday April 5 for the Bethesda Film Fest. Showtimes are 7:00 pm each night (you only need to attend one screening to see all six films), and tickets are $15. Get tickets here. LEGO Build the Thrill: Lego has a new experience for F1 fans called “build the thrill” You can get hands-on with LEGO® bricks to create a minifigure driver and build an ultimate race car, before putting them through their paces. Rev those engines and join in the LEGO® F1® fun at LEGO Discovery Center Washington, D.C.