The Barefoot Contessa’s Washington Special, Plus More Intel

Barefoot in D.C.

Sounds like Patisserie Poupon wasn’t Ina Garten’s only stop when she was in D.C. The Barefoot Contessa was taping a special called "Barefoot in Washington," which will include stops at vegetarian taco haunt Chaia, experimental cocktail bar Barmini, and even The White House. The one-hour special will air Nov. 5 on the Food Network. [TT]

One last time

Speaking of The White House, the administration’s final state dinner was last night. It included celebrity appearances (including some from the food world like personality Rachael Ray), plus food from chef Mario Batali as previously reported. Reliable Source has details and photos (including those of the First Lady’s knockout dress). [RS]

Red vs Blue restaurants

Eater.com unpacks the donating happening by America’s restaurant chains during the election cycle. While restaurant chains lean Republican in donations in general, many more restaurant employees are donating to Hillary Clinton than Donald Trump. Restaurant PACs and CEOs are also tending to concentrate donations more locally. [E]

Breakfasts of the stars

What do D.C. celebs eat for breakfast? NPR’s David Green makes omelets in a mug at the office; restaurateur Ashok Bajaj’s morning routine includes carrot juice, some nuts, and a piece of fresh fruit. [Washingtonian]