Fancy Crab Cake Earns D.C. Chef a Trip to ‘The Chew,’ Plus More Intel

Food TV

Jonathan Dearden, the Virginia native currently manning the burners at Mason & Rook hotel restaurant, Radiator, is heading to New York City next month to represent D.C. in a national cooking competition put on by ABC’s The Chew. Dearden earned the slot after winning a local cook-off with a regionally inspired dish featuring Chesapeake crab, half-smokes, and potato-apple hash.

Coming attractions

When it arrives this spring, Del Ray newcomer Charlie’s on the Avenue plans to serve an eclectic menu featuring Cuban sandwiches, Bavarian pretzels, and Southern fried chicken. In an interview with Northern Virginia Magazine, Charlie’s founder and Fiola alum Frank Justus lays out his vision for the casual eatery he hopes will appeal to “the other side of the market we’re not getting at Live Oak.”

The Shutter

Bethesda Magazine reports that Cleveland-based chain Paladar has closed its location in North Bethesda. The Latin-themed eatery, which favors rum drinks, continues to operate other restaurants in the area.

As American as apple pie

Vermont lawmaker and 2016 presidential candidate Bernie Sanders stopped by the Dangerously Delicious Pies in the Atlas District on January 17.

No word on whether he walked out with something sweet or savory. But the local chain thanked Sanders for supporting the small business community all the same.