What Happened at The Festicle; Where Restaurants and Politics Meet

NAVY YARD— So The Festicle, D.C.'s latest testicle-themed food festival, happened over the weekend. Spike Mendelsohn didn't make it, despite the fact his new events team was promoting it. But chefs like Tim Ma and Erik Bruner-Yang did face-off to earn a balls-shaped trophy. [WBJ]

POLITICS—  He may be behind in the polls, but Cork Wine Bar co-owner and City Council candidate Khalid Pitts has been drawing support from the city's restaurants. He's been endorsed by the Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington, as well as dozens of restaurant owners ranging from Jeff Black to Ris Lacoste. Restaurateurs such as Fabio Trabocchi and Todd and Elen Gray have hosted fundraisers as well. [EaterWire]

BETHESDA— Eduardo Harth is now the chef de cuisine at Bethesda. He's previously worked at such restaurants as Citron, Cafe Deluxe and Bistro Lepic. The menu may see more of a Latin influence under his watch, as a press release describes it as one of his culinary passions. The restaurant is in the midst of expanding its new bar program and steakhouse menu. [EaterWire]