SweetWater to D.C.; Asti Trattoria Next for Merrifield?

MOUNT PLEASANT— Beau Thai is catering to to the Paleo crowd this winter. They've got five Paleo Diet-friendly specials on their menu right now, including a pork jerky and kaffir lime leaf appetizer, which comes with a homemade Paleo sriracha chili sauce. [EaterWire]

PENN QUARTER— Everyone thinks their chili is the best. For those who swear by their vegan version or scoff at any recipe involving beans, take the battle to Hill Country. They'll be hosting a Chili Cook-off on Saturday, Feb. 1, and registration is open. The event ($10) is open to the public and benefits charity. More here. [EaterWire]

BEER HERE— Atlanta's SweetWater Brewing Company is launching in D.C. and Virginia later this month. The brewery behind such varieties as SweetWater Tackle Box and 420 Extra Pale Ale is working with Capital Eagle Distributors and Virginia Eagle to make its way into restaurants and stores. They'll be doing a variety of launch events in the area from January 28-30, so keep an eye on their Facebook page. This brewery should not be confused with NoVa brewpub Sweetwater Tavern, by the way. [EaterWire]

MERRIFIELD— There's a nugget of news buried in Tom Sietsema's review of Alba Osteria (more on that tomorrow). Owner Hakan Ilhan is opening to open another restaurant, Asti Trattoria, somewhere in Merrifield. [WaPo]