Daikaya Izakaya Taking Reservations; Al Dente Turns 1

NORTHWEST— To celebrate its first anniversary, Al Dente is pouring free prosecco through Sunday. [Twitter]

PENN QUARTER— Sake fans, get ready to start dialing. Daikaya announced via Facebook today that it is now taking reservations for the upstairs izakaya. Call 202-589-1600 to book a table. [Facebook]

EVENTS— Taste of the Nation, which is happening Monday, is introducing its first Wagshal's Chef Showdown contest, which will provide entertainment during the event. Chefs Victor Albisu of Del Campo, Bertrand Chemel of 2941 and John Manolatos of Cashion's Eat Place will face off against Top Chef vets Mike Isabella of Kapnos, Bart Vandaele of Belga Café, and Bryan Voltaggio of Volt in a cooking competition. Eater will be on hand to judge. More info on the event here. [EaterWire]

BOOK CLUB— The Washington Post's cookbook, featuring recipes from the food section editors, goes on sale April 15. [EaterWire]

[Photo: R. Lopez]