José Andrés Stands With Cultural Heroes at the Academy Awards

Spotted

Celebrity chef and humanitarian of the year honoree José Andrés on March 4 joined nine other activists from all walks of life on stage at the Academy Awards during a special performance of Oscar-nominated song “Stand Up For Something.”

According to Variety, entertainers Common and Andra Day contacted Andrés because of the relief effort he has spearheaded in storm-ravaged Puerto Rico.

Closer to home, restaurateur Jamie Leeds thanked former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama for having dinner March 2 at the Hank’s Oyster Bar she planted in the Wharf last fall.

The Shutter

Bethesda Magazine reports that homegrown chain Lebanese Taverna is closing in Bethesda, Maryland, on Saturday, March 10. The family-run business was unable to negotiate a new lease, but will continue to operate its other restaurants in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia.

Arlnow reports that local producer Capitol City Brewing Company closed in Shirlington, Virginia, on March 2. “After 22 years of proudly serving Northern Virginia, we have had to make the difficult decision to close this location,” the company wrote in a farewell note on social media. A location opposite the City Center complex remains in operation.

Beer here

Northern Virginia Magazine reports that new brewery and self-service beer hall the Craft of Brewing — co-founded by a Capitol City Brewing Company alum — is opening on Wednesday, March 7 in Ashburn, Virginia. Expect nearly two dozen brews plus root beer and cream ale.