Eater DC: All Posts by Meredith BethuneThe DC Restaurant, Bar, and Nightlife Bloghttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/52682/favicon-32x32.png2016-08-01T10:00:04-04:00https://dc.eater.com/authors/meredith-bethune/rss2016-08-01T10:00:04-04:002016-08-01T10:00:04-04:00The Early Word on Anxo in Truxton Circle
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<img alt="Anxo" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/QO607ECmtObJ_cRLhqopXAw_Q8s=/98x0:897x599/1310x983/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/50250787/anxo12.0.0.0.0.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Anxo | <a href='http://underabushel.com'>R. Lopez</a></figcaption>
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<p>"Owners and staff are supremely gracious, and knowledgeable, and fun..."</p> <p>Anxo Cidery & Pintxos Bar <a href="http://dc.eater.com/2016/7/13/12173206/anxo-opens-cider-pintxos-dc">opened</a> about two weeks ago. The team (Sam Fitz, Rachel Fitz, Tim Prendergast, Cooper Sheehan, and chef Alex Vallcorba) hosted several pop-ups since the project was announced.</p>
<p>The concept focuses on Basque cuisine and cider, and the menu highlights bite-size pintxos (Basque tapas) like salt cod fitters and Spanish tortilla. <span>Also find larger dishes like cider poached octopus and fried pig ears. There's also a selection of 20 different draft ciders, beers, cocktails, and </span>some lesser-known wines from the Basque Country and surrounding regions.</p>
<p>What do diners think so far. The restaurant already has <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516589&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.yelp.com%2Fbiz%2Fanxo-cidery-and-pintxos-bar-washington&referrer=eater.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fdc.eater.com%2F2016%2F8%2F1%2F12329838%2Fearly-reviews-anxo-cidery-pintxos" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">25 Yelp reviews</a> with an overall rating of four stars. Read on for the early word on Anxo:</p>
<p><b>The Layered Decor New:</b> Yelper <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516589&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.yelp.com%2Fuser_details%3Fuserid%3Di1VShODYBZdRBQ7Dwtb4EA&referrer=eater.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fdc.eater.com%2F2016%2F8%2F1%2F12329838%2Fearly-reviews-anxo-cidery-pintxos" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Susan C.</a> writes, "Anxo has a layered look that combines decor, ambiance and lighting to achieve a very natural, sophisticated space that has an earthy textured feel with a modern edge. We loved it." PoPville commenter <a style="background-color: #ffffff;" href="http://www.popville.com/2016/07/at-last-anxo-cidery-pintxos-bar-opens-in-truxton-circle-wed-at-5pm-have-a-look-inside-and-at-the-menu/">North-East-West-South-Shaw</a> says, "Great job on inner decor." [Yelp, PoP]</p>
<p><span><b>The Long Wait News:</b> Facebook user </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/ANXOcider/">Kalimar Maia</a><span> warns, "The wait inside was over an hour but outdoor seating was first come and we got a spot in 10 minutes" Yelper </span><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516589&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.yelp.com%2Fuser_details%3Fuserid%3Dcjxuu63o1RFaFZe7EpBQBA%2520&referrer=eater.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fdc.eater.com%2F2016%2F8%2F1%2F12329838%2Fearly-reviews-anxo-cidery-pintxos" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Romina K.</a><span> says, "We sat outside and had to wait forever to order. Later, we were told that we cannot have any of the seafood outside for an unknown reason." [FB, Yelp]</span></p>
<p><span><b>The Great Cider List News:</b> Instagrammer </span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BH-3LF8B7F7/">@aarontripp7</a><span> says Anxo has a great cider list. PoPville commenter </span><a href="http://www.popville.com/2016/07/at-last-anxo-cidery-pintxos-bar-opens-in-truxton-circle-wed-at-5pm-have-a-look-inside-and-at-the-menu/">Tsar of Truxton</a><span> wants the Woodchuck lovers of the world to know something about their cider selection. He writes, "…the ciders at ANXO are different than they may be accustomed to and may not be for everyone." [Instagram, PoP]</span></p>
<p><b><span>The C</span>old-Sipping-Soup Sensation News: </b><span>Yelper </span><a style="background-color: #ffffff;" href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516589&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.yelp.com%2Fuser_details%3Fuserid%3Di1VShODYBZdRBQ7Dwtb4EA%2520&referrer=eater.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fdc.eater.com%2F2016%2F8%2F1%2F12329838%2Fearly-reviews-anxo-cidery-pintxos" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Susan C.</a><span> calls the gazpacho "flavorful and refreshing." </span><span>Yelper </span><a style="line-height: 1.5; background-color: #ffffff;" href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516589&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.yelp.com%2Fuser_details%3Fuserid%3DAoMuamGTx3mAI9kGOflvcA&referrer=eater.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fdc.eater.com%2F2016%2F8%2F1%2F12329838%2Fearly-reviews-anxo-cidery-pintxos" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Gina K.</a><span> writes, "the sipping gazpacho is refined and the prefect blend of peppers, tomatoes, and cucumber. If you haven't experienced gazpacho before, this is the perfect place to dive in to the cold-sipping-soup sensation." [Yelp]</span></p>
<p><span><b>The Biggest, Sweetest Mussels News:</b> </span><a style="background-color: #ffffff;" href="http://brightestyoungthings.com/articles/first-look-and-taste-test-anxo">Brightest Young Things</a><span> says Anxo has "some of the biggest, sweetest mussels you’ll find in D.C., topped with diced peppers, olive oil, and vinegar;" Yelper </span><a style="background-color: #ffffff;" href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516589&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.yelp.com%2Fuser_details%3Fuserid%3DYyRVhyeCJ7ivURvl_uV0vg&referrer=eater.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fdc.eater.com%2F2016%2F8%2F1%2F12329838%2Fearly-reviews-anxo-cidery-pintxos" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Pegah A.</a><span> also loved them. [BYT, Yelp]</span></p>
<p><span><b>The Juicy Roasted Quail News:</b> </span><a href="http://brightestyoungthings.com/articles/first-look-and-taste-test-anxo">Brightest Young Things</a><span> calls it, "juicy roasted quail with crispy Serrano ham and artichokes, which should honestly just be on the menu as 'You Have to Order This.'" </span><span>It </span>was also a favorite dish for Yelper <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516589&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.yelp.com%2Fuser_details%3Fuserid%3D5tFEF35dtIi0_7pkDuOPsQ%2520&referrer=eater.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fdc.eater.com%2F2016%2F8%2F1%2F12329838%2Fearly-reviews-anxo-cidery-pintxos" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Karlos L.</a> [BYT, Yelp]</p>
<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516589&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.yelp.com%2Fuser_details%3Fuserid%3D5tFEF35dtIi0_7pkDuOPsQ%2520&referrer=eater.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fdc.eater.com%2F2016%2F8%2F1%2F12329838%2Fearly-reviews-anxo-cidery-pintxos" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a></p>
<p><span><b>The Supremely Gracious Staff News:</b> PoPville commenter </span><a href="http://www.popville.com/2016/07/at-last-anxo-cidery-pintxos-bar-opens-in-truxton-circle-wed-at-5pm-have-a-look-inside-and-at-the-menu/">Sydney</a><span> writes, "Owners and staff are supremely gracious, and knowledgeable, and fun — and full of energy for this marvelous undertaking." Yelper </span><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516589&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.yelp.com%2Fbiz%2Fanxo-cidery-and-pintxos-bar-washington%3Fq%3Dgazpacho&referrer=eater.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fdc.eater.com%2F2016%2F8%2F1%2F12329838%2Fearly-reviews-anxo-cidery-pintxos" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Jacquie T. </a><span>calls the service "quick and polished." [PoP, Yelp]</span></p>
<p><span><b>The Prices Versus Portions News:</b> </span><span>Yelper </span><a style="background-color: #ffffff;" href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516589&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.yelp.com%2Fuser_details%3Fuserid%3DrQLPtFjKtHS5XoISsqOTrw&referrer=eater.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fdc.eater.com%2F2016%2F8%2F1%2F12329838%2Fearly-reviews-anxo-cidery-pintxos" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Thomas K.</a><span> writes, "Price is fine after one does the math: pintxos/tapas cuisine takes getting used to and the quality is outstanding." But </span><span>Facebook user </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/ANXOcider/">Lyndsay Webb</a><span> says, "Can't complain about the taste of the food, but the price points are absurd for the portion sizes." [Yelp, FB]</span></p>
https://dc.eater.com/2016/8/1/12329838/early-reviews-anxo-cidery-pintxosMeredith Bethune2016-07-28T15:00:03-04:002016-07-28T15:00:03-04:00Tom Sietsema Has a Like-Dislike Relationship with Kingbird in the Watergate Hotel
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<img alt="Kingbird" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Djgsq8KRrGyWLqbi-Gcp7SCJRtI=/0x0:887x665/1310x983/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/50231113/kingbird.0.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Kingbird | <a href='http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/kingbird-washington'>Kingbird/Yelp</a></figcaption>
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<p>Plus, reviews of Tapp'd, El Sol, Distinct Taste, and Tim Carman's favorite pupusas</p> <p>Tom Sietsema <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/magazine/kingbird-review-the-food-the-view-and-the-wine-bill-can-take-your-breath-away/2016/07/26/0f6a276e-4514-11e6-bc99-7d269f8719b1_story.html">tries</a> Kingbird for his full review in the <i>Washington Post</i>. He awards the restaurant inside The Watergate Hotel two stars. Although he loves the setting, including the $200 million renovation and the waterfront view, he finds it out of touch in terms of comfort and price levels. He’s not a fan of the curvy dining chairs, and he also finds some of the wine prices outrageous. The food (except for the starters) generally seems to please, though. The critic writes:</p>
<blockquote>"Hotel restaurants are obligated to offer something for everyone, and Kingbird…follows suit. Thus, the steak lover can mull the 'Butcher’s Block,' a handful of meats and sauces at different price points. The draws include designer rack of lamb, cooked the shade you ask and every bite an encouragement to get to the bone. For the food explorer, there’s torch-shaped pasta tossed with walnuts, fennel and crumbled goat sausage, sprinkled with toasted bread crumbs for an accent you can hear as well as taste."</blockquote>
<p>He also likes chef Michael Santoro’s risotto and soft-shell crab, the lunchtime lobster roll, and several desserts. [WaPo]</p>
<p>For his <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/going-out-guide/wp/2016/07/26/where-to-find-the-best-pupusas-in-the-d-c-area/">$20 Diner column</a> in the <i>Washington Post</i>, Tim Carman assembles a list of the best pupusas in the D.C. area. One of his favorites is La Casita Pupuseria and Market in Silver Spring. He writes:</p>
<blockquote>"If any place comes close to the archetypal pupusa, it's this ambitious operation…Unlike a lot of pupuserias, which use either mozzarella or a mozz-quesillo hybrid, La Casita offers a corn pocket stuffed with genuine Salvadoran cheese, which is at once sweet and creamy and salty and . . . what is that flavor right on the tip of my tongue? Call it earthy, for lack of a better word. The curtido and salsa are served together in a small bowl on the side, and although the condiment leans heavy on cabbage, it also includes a strong pinch of pepper heat. The kitchen's biggest mistake? There are serious breaches of the masa shell."</blockquote>
<p>Maryland gets lots of representation on the list with Pupuseria La Cabanita in Hyattsville, Pupuseria La Familiar in College Park. Don Juan Restaurant and El Rinconcito Cafe in D.C. also make the cut. [WaPo]</p>
<p>Rina Rapuano goes to Tapp’d for the <a href="http://www.bethesdamagazine.com/Bethesda-Beat/Web-2016/First-Taste-Tappd-Bethesda/">First Bite column</a> in <i>Bethesda Magazine</i>. The menu is typical of bars, and Rapuano tries three different dry-rub varieties of chicken wings, but the onion rings ultimately come out on top. She writes about the main dishes:</p>
<blockquote>"Our server was right to try to steer us away from the pot pie…, admitting the dish is made with frozen vegetables. The basic white crock sadly revealed nothing interesting beneath its browned pastry blanket, and crust fans won’t like that there’s none lining the bottom. The main downfall of the chicken, peas and carrots in white sauce is a lack of seasoning, making it a fine option only for those who prefer very plain food. The juicy, well-seasoned Tapp’d Burger topped with housemade beer cheese, bacon, sautéed onions, lettuce and tomato is a better bet. It’s a hefty 8-ounce blend of chuck, short rib and brisket, and it hits the spot."</blockquote>
<p>The extensive selection of draft beers is one of the main draws at Tapp'd, and six are brewed for the pub by Baltimore-based Oliver Brewing Co. The beer cocktail, unfortunately, was "undrinkable." [Bethesda]</p>
<p>Tyler Cowen <a href="https://tylercowensethnicdiningguide.com/index.php/el-sol-restaurante/">goes</a> to El Sol and agrees with the <i>Washington Post </i>that they have some of the best tacos in the region. He writes:</p>
<blockquote>"I especially liked the tacos del pastor. The pozole I thought was only so-so, and overall I am not entirely convinced by the notion that this is a serviceable full-scale Mexican restaurant with mole and the like. The atmosphere is more mom and pop than the web site might lead you to expect. Don’t get carried away here, but definitely recommended, cheap too." [TC]</blockquote>
<p>He also <a href="https://tylercowensethnicdiningguide.com/index.php/distinct-taste/">eats</a> at Distinct Taste in Gaithersburg. His recommends ordering the tofu skin in black bean sauce and various fish dishes at the Chinese restaurant. [TC]</p>
<p><b>THE BLOGS: </b>Bitches Who Brunch aren't <a href="http://bitcheswhobrunch.com/dacha-beer-garden-brunch/">knocked out</a> by Dacha Beer Garden...Cocktail Amateur <a href="https://cocktailamateur.com/2016/07/19/drinks-on-the-aegean-kapnos/">gives</a> Kapnos a whirl...Hungry Lobbyist <a href="http://hungrylobbyist.com/spice-up-your-night-and-life-at-alfies/">rushes </a>to Alfie's before it closes</p>
https://dc.eater.com/2016/7/28/12308654/restaurant-reviews-kingbird-watergate-tappd-el-sol-distinct-taste-best-pupusas-dcMeredith Bethune2016-07-28T10:30:03-04:002016-07-28T10:30:03-04:00Industry Insiders Weigh In on Metro's Proposal to End Late-Night Service
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<img alt="Metro" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/08P52xJXWm8D-jGThUrAo2Pg2lM=/0x0:910x683/1310x983/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/50230385/5557928950_d4225f3e69_b.0.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Metro | <a href='https://www.flickr.com/photos/rj_schmidt/'>Rj Schmidt/Flickr</a></figcaption>
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<p>The temporary early closure is already affecting business, and it's today's hot topic for restaurant and bar owners</p> <p>Metro has been closing early on weekends as part of the Safe Track plan since May, causing a headache for restaurants and bars open late. Now <span>Metro General Manager Paul Wiedefeld has put forth a proposal </span><a href="http://www.wmata.com/about_metro/news/PressReleaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=6140">to permanently </a><a style="line-height: 1.5; background-color: #ffffff;" href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/trafficandcommuting/metro-general-manager-proposes-permanent-end-to-late-night-service/2016/07/26/b36b15aa-535e-11e6-b7de-dfe509430c39_story.html">end</a><span> late-night service</span><span>. </span><span>He proposes closing at midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, instead of at 3 a.m. and closing at 10 p.m. on Sundays to give work crews enough time to make repairs.</span></p>
<p><span></span><span>Eater asked a bar manager, a restaurant owner, and the head of the city's restaurant association to weigh in on how the closures are already changing business and how the proposal would affect them permanently. Not only is a drop in customers a concern, but it would also reduce transportation options for restaurant and bar employees, they said. Here are their thoughts:</span></p>
<h3><b>Brian Nixon, general manager McClellan's Retreat</b></h3>
<p>"I've noticed a significant drop off in business on Friday and Saturday late nights since the metro began shutting down early on the weekends," Nixon told Eater. "It's really odd to be completely full at 11:45 [p.m.] and empty at 12:30 [a.m.]. Before the shutdown we would stay full for another two hours, which may not seem like a lot but for a small neighborhood bar that can make all the difference."</p>
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<b>Gus DiMillo, co-proprietor at Passion Food Hospitalit</b>y</h3>
<p>"An end to late-night metro service on the weekends would affect our employees returning home more than our guests, as our restaurants close well before or around the midnight hour," DiMillo said. "The safety of our employees is a considerable worry for us, and the economical consequences are facts to be considered."</p>
<h3><b>Kathy E. Hollinger, President and CEO of Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington (RAMW)</b></h3>
<p>"Everyone recognizes the utmost importance of maintaining a safe, functioning Metrorail for area residents and commuters," Hollinger said in a statement sent via email. "However, the restaurant community is concerned that permanently limiting hours of operation will negatively impact guests, as well as hardworking staff, who tend to commute to and from work at non-typical hours," she said.</p>
<p>"We have heard from member restaurants that sales are down as much as 20 percent due to early metro closures and the current SafeTrack schedule. The impact of the Metrorail’s schedule on restaurants and small businesses cannot be ignored and we welcome the opportunity to be included in the upcoming discussions to share the true effect of this decision."</p>
https://dc.eater.com/2016/7/28/12308206/restaurants-bars-dc-metro-late-night-serviceMeredith Bethune2016-07-27T15:00:04-04:002016-07-27T15:00:04-04:00The Thip Khao Team Wants Diners to Stop Stealing Their Restaurant's Namesake Item
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<img alt="Thip Khao" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/7e1ZUk1L4e0nscG2aSOPkkVQaJ4=/164x0:1497x1000/1310x983/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/50221659/thipkhao5.0.0.0.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Thip Khao | <a href='http://underabushel.com'>R. Lopez</a></figcaption>
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<p>Cuteness isn't a good excuse for thievery </p> <p>The collection of sticky rice baskets at Laotian restaurant Thip Khao is shrinking, and c<span>o-chef and owner Bobby Pradachith chalks it up to thieves. </span></p>
<p>Pradachith has<span> even seen a few of them bragging about their exploits on Instagram, so he </span><span>took to social media yesterday to get the word out. Here's the post that appeared on the </span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/bangkokgolden/">Instagram account</a><span> for Bangkok Golden (Thip Khao's sister restaurant):</span></p>
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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a target="_blank" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BIVr7lWB0CI/">This is a Thip Khao. Its the namesake of our sister restaurant. Please leave them at the restaurant. We know you love them and may want to take them home but they must stay at the restaurant. #BangkokGoldenVA #ThipKhao #TrueLao #LaoFoodMovement #Nova #Lao #NorthernViginia #Foodie</a></p>
<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A photo posted by Bangkok Golden (@bangkokgolden) on <time datetime="2016-07-26T20:55:19+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Jul 26, 2016 at 1:55pm PDT</time></p>
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<p>Pradachith and his mother chef Seng Luangrat are understandably upset, and it's not just because the baskets are the restaurant's namesake. <span>"Thip Khaos are very personal for the restaurant and our family and we feel disrespected when people take them because they are 'cute' looking," he said. </span></p>
<p><span>The vessels are nearly impossible to get in the United States. Luangrat actually traveled all the way back to Laos before opening, handpicked hundreds of the baskets for use in the restaurant, and brought them home in her suitcase. They're even getting difficult to find in Laos. Pradachith said they're handmade by mostly older women </span>because <span>the younger generation is less interested in learning the craft. </span></p>
<p>Sticky rice is the main staple food in Laos and larger version of the baskets holding the starch are served at every meal. <span>When Thip Khao first opened, every customer received their own individual basket filled with sticky rice. But now the restaurant's stash of baskets has dropped so dramatically that they only serve one portion of rice with each dish that requires it (customers are welcome to ask for more if they need it). "It really hurts," says Pradachith, "W</span><span>hen you steal something that has so much rich history to it, and is pretty personal to us and is symbolic to the restaurant." </span></p>
https://dc.eater.com/2016/7/27/12299704/thip-khao-laos-stealing-basketsMeredith Bethune2016-07-25T17:00:04-04:002016-07-25T17:00:04-04:00Brookland's Finest Does Weekly Fish and Chicken Fry; &pizza expands to Philly
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<img alt="Brookland's Finest" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/6SWMX2Tumn7W2s9QyIvMYGBzl2E=/0x141:720x681/1310x983/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/50199653/brooklands_finest.0.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Brookland's Finest | <a href='https://www.facebook.com/1493231100890699/photos/a.1493354630878346.1073741828.1493231100890699/1542757509271391/?type=3&theater'>Facebook</a></figcaption>
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<p>Plus, Hakan Ilhan plans new restaurant near White House</p> <p><i>BROOKLAND—</i> <span>Brookland’s Finest is doing a family-style fish and chicken fry dinner during the summer months at market price. The special, which highlights a local and sustainable fish from the </span>District<span> Fishwife, will be available every Sunday during dinner. [EaterWire]</span></p>
<p><i>EXPANSIONS—</i> Local fast-casual chain &pizza is expanding to Philadelphia. A storefront will open at 1430 Walnut Street by the end of the year. [EaterWire]</p>
<p><i>DOWNTOWN—</i> <span>Restaurateur Hakan Ilhan, owner of Alba Osteria and L’Hommage Bistro Français, will </span><a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/going-out-guide/wp/2016/07/25/hakan-ilhan-is-opening-a-french-american-restaurant-near-the-white-house/">open</a><span> Plateau near the White House in March 2017. </span><i>Washington Post </i>reports<span> the new French-American restaurant will have white tablecloths, formal service, and 147 seats</span><span>. [WaPo]</span></p>
https://dc.eater.com/2016/7/25/12278974/brooklands-finest-does-weekly-fish-chicken-fryMeredith Bethune2016-07-22T15:15:03-04:002016-07-22T15:15:03-04:00Where to Cool Off with Frosé in D.C.
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<img alt="Froze at the Brixton" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/JNlMFtzA3BaMz-7qynIGW-vXqCk=/0x0:800x600/1310x983/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/50182525/brixton-frose-3.0.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Froze at the Brixton | Official</figcaption>
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<p>Yes, it's what it sounds like: frozen rosé wine</p>
<p>It's this summer's big drink trend. Icy and boozy at the same time, frosé is a cross between rosé wine and a slushie. It's a playful, childlike treat that's meant only for adults.</p>
<p><span>Rosé wine has had a huge resurgence in popularity over the last several years and wine slushies have also been appearing here and there. Now bartenders are taking it to the next level and combining the two items. It's not as simple as pouring from fruity rosé into a margarita machine, though. </span></p>
<p><span>Bars</span> are putting their own mark on the drink, spiking it with Aperol, fruit, and even flavored vodkas. <span>It's ideal for hot summer days spent on the patio, rooftop, or even hiding in an air conditioned bar.</span></p>
<p><b>2 Birds 1 Stone</b></p>
<p><i>1800 14th St. NW</i></p>
<p>During frappé hour, the bar is planning to do a spin on frosé available on select Tuesdays from 6-8 p.m. "All Rosé Everything" will be made with Capitoline rosé vermouth, raspberry, BrancaMenta, and lemon juice. Follow their <a href="https://www.instagram.com/2birds1stonedc/">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/2Birds1StoneDC">Twitter</a> for updates.</p>
<p><b style="line-height: 1.5;">Arcuri</b></p>
<p><em>2400 Wisconsin Ave. NW</em></p>
<p>Frosé has been spotted in Glover Park at this Italian restaurant. The wine is mixed with Stoli Raz, simple syrup, and lemon juice and then transformed into a slushie.</p>
<p><b>The Brixton</b></p>
<p><i> 901 U St. NW </i></p>
<p><span>Rosé wine isn't exactly English, but this British-themed bars still makes a popular frosé with homemade lemonade and a touch of Aperol.</span></p>
<p><b style="line-height: 1.5;">Lyman's Tavern</b></p>
<p><i> 3720 14th St. NW</i></p>
<p>Frosé and pinball sound like an unlikely combination. But it's just one of the many rotating frozen drink specials regularly getting poured from the margarita machines at this Petworth bar.</p>
<p><b>Macon Bistro and Larder</b></p>
<p><i> 5520 Connecticut Ave NW</i></p>
<p>The Chevy Chase neighborhood bistro makes the Catalonian Freeze drink with Spanish rosé, fresh berries, honey, and mint.</p>
<p><b>Orange Anchor</b></p>
<p><i>3050 K St. NW</i></p>
<p>There's no better place to try frosé than on the Georgetown waterfront. This version combines rosé wine, fresh lemon, and strawberry.</p>
<hr>
<h3>Watch: The Slushie You Might Not Know About</h3>
<div data-analytics-viewport="video" data-analytics-action="volume:view:article:middle" data-analytics-label="Beer Slushie: Best Drink You Didn't Know Existed | 93" data-volume-uuid="e09f50849" data-volume-id="93" data-analytics-placement="article:middle" data-volume-placement="article" id="volume-placement-1566" class="volume-video"></div>
https://dc.eater.com/2016/7/22/12256520/best-frose-frozen-rose-wine-dcMeredith Bethune2016-07-21T17:00:03-04:002016-07-21T17:00:03-04:00More Details About Erik Bruner-Yang's Legal Battles Emerge; Shouk Launches Happy Hour
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<img alt="Erik Bruner-Yang" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/TMxnqzZ24eCcdWIc00s3IubNEls=/0x0:1620x1215/1310x983/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/50174433/erikbruneryang.0.0.0.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Erik Bruner-Yang | <a href='http://underabushel.com'>R. Lopez</a></figcaption>
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<p>Plus, Exiles Bar hosts grand opening party tonight</p> <p><i>LAWSUITS—</i> <i>Washingtonian</i> has more <a href="https://www.washingtonian.com/2016/07/21/toki-underground-countersuit-erik-bruner-yang-company-money-sex-toys/">details</a> on Erik Bruner-Yang's ongoing legal battles with his former Toki Underground partners. They're <span>countersuing the chef and alleging he spent $578,000 in company funds on some unsavory expenses. [Washingtonian]</span></p>
<p><i>MT. VERNON TRIANGLE—</i> Happy hour starts today at Shouk. It will run 5-7 p.m. daily with beers and wines for $5 and snacks for $3.50. [EaterWire]</p>
<p><i>U STREET— </i>Although it's been open for a few weeks,<span> Exiles Bar is hosting a grand opening celebration tonight at 7 p.m. Expect live music, complimentary menu samples, and drink specials. [EaterWire]</span></p>
https://dc.eater.com/2016/7/21/12251070/more-details-on-erik-bruner-yangs-legal-battles-emerge-shouk-launchesMeredith Bethune2016-07-21T14:45:02-04:002016-07-21T14:45:02-04:00Tom Sietsema Calls Hazel the Right Restaurant at the Right Time
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<img alt="Hazel" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/K3tOp0OO5IIscyRoTrB5k9j0sWI=/99x0:899x600/1310x983/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/50170583/hazel7.0.0.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Hazel | <a href='http://underabushel.com'>R. Lopez</a></figcaption>
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<p>Plus, reviews of Bantam King, Kapnos Kouzina and Boundary Road</p> <p>For his <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/food/hazel-review-not-too-big-not-too-small-and-a-lot-thats-just-right/2016/07/13/207c2caa-3d67-11e6-80bc-d06711fd2125_story.html">full review</a> in the <i>Washington Post</i>, Tom Sietsema tries the just-opened Hazel by Neighborhood Restaurant Group. He awards two and a half stars to the Shaw restaurant helmed by chef Rob Rubba. The critic approves of the restaurant’s "medium-sized servings" in lieu of small plates or full entrees. He writes:</p>
<blockquote>"The chef’s seafood-scallion pancake could almost pass for the ubiquitous Korean appetizer, except this one is thinner, more refined and includes circles of garlic mayonnaise and shaved bonito...in addition to shrimp and rings of calamari. Fried cubes of tofu, draped with a peppery lamb sauce and crunchy with fried chickpeas? Another dish you can’t let go of until there’s nothing left but a grin on your face. (Frying is an art here, judging by the high-rise soft shell crabs, blinged out with trout roe and some of the best I’ve caught this season.)"</blockquote>
<p><span>Other favorites are a </span>reworked<span> steak tartare and dark chocolate jasmine custard by pastry chef Naomi Gallego. Less successful dishes include the citrus-glazed ribs and the Japanese-inspired cotton cheesecake. [WaPo]</span></p>
<p>He also tries Bantam King from the Daikaya team for the <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/food/bantam-king-could-quickly-become-a-fried-chicken-heavyweight/2016/07/15/a1e0fc5c-4925-11e6-90a8-fb84201e0645_story.html">First Bite column</a> in the <i>Washington Post</i>. The specialty there is chicken ramen. Sietsema writes:</p>
<blockquote>"Knowing that ramen is meant to be eaten piping hot, I lift some wiry noodles with my chopsticks and support them from below using my white plastic spoon as soon as my bowl of shoyu paitan is set down. I slurp a few strands, a move that tempers the boil, and then sip the broth, which is lightly creamy and dancing with ginger and garlic. Toppings — sweet onion slices, pickled bamboo shoots, tender roast chicken — are appreciated by themselves, bite by bite." [WaPo]</blockquote>
<p>For his <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/going-out-guide/wp/2016/07/21/the-20-diners-guide-to-the-best-sandwiches-in-philadelphia/#else">$20 Diner column</a> in the <i>Washington Post</i>, Tim Carman heads to Philadelphia to check out the city's dining scene before the Democratic Convention next week. He scopes out hoagies, roast pork, cheesesteaks, and more. [WaPo]</p>
<p><span>David Hagedorn </span><a href="http://www.bethesdamagazine.com/Bethesda-Magazine/July-August-2016/Review-Mike-Isabellas-Kapnos-Kouzina/">reviews</a><span> Kapnos Kouzina for <i>Bethesda Magazine</i>. He spots several dishes that are also on the menus at Mike Isabella's other Kapnos restaurants— spreads like taramasalata and hummus, as well as saganaki and spanakopita. He continues:</span></p>
<blockquote>"As to the dishes I’ve tried for the first time, I love Kouzina’s Caesar salad, its whole leaves fully dressed with creamy, tangy feta dressing and topped with feta crumbles, pita croutons, watermelon radish and pickled red onions. Crab flatbread...is a marvelous, summer-fresh salad of lump crabmeat, avocado and tzatziki in pizza form. From the souvlaki section, grilled ground duck patties are moist and tasty, their sublime flavor enhanced by a dip in charred scallion purée."</blockquote>
<p>There are even more highlights from the meal like tuna tartare, fish kebabs, the fried chicken with honey harissa, and the braised lamb shanks. Both the tuna tartare and service could improve. [Bethesda]</p>
<p>Don Rockwell is <a href="http://reviews.dcdining.com/2016/07/18/boundary-road-h-street-corridor/">back in action</a> with a review of Boundary Road. He’s really into their selection of mead from Charm City Meadworks and also the cooking by new chef Luke Feltz. He writes:</p>
<blockquote>"Highlights from my first two meals here were the Beef Tartare ($13), Quark Pierogi ($10), and Veal Sweetbreads ($14), each of the three exactly what I had hoped for;... just four hours before my second visit, I had just finished a multi-course lunch at Betony, and was completely frazzled by leaving my cell phone in a New York taxi ....; on both visits, I merely wanted to relax and unwind..., and that’s exactly what I did, with my mind largely turned off."</blockquote>
<p>He returns a few more times and then describes, in detail, dishes like cured cobia, spicy chicken and ramp sausage, northern neck asparagus, confit trumpet mushrooms, and even the "scoop of ice cream." There's even commentary from the chef himself. [DR]</p>
<p><b>THE BLOGS:</b> Bad Sentences <a href="http://www.badsentences.com/bonfire-dc/">recommends</a> Bonfire as a first date spot...Bitches Who Brunch <a href="http://bitcheswhobrunch.com/cafe-milano-brunch-ii/">escapes</a> to Cafe Milano...French Twist DC <a href="https://frenchtwistdc.com/2016/07/18/pokeball-donuts/">tries</a> a pokeball doughnut</p>
https://dc.eater.com/2016/7/21/12247512/restaurant-reviews-hazel-kapnos-kouzina-boundary-road-dcMeredith Bethune2016-07-20T14:00:03-04:002016-07-20T14:00:03-04:00Where to Watch the GOP and Democratic Convention Speeches in D.C.
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<img alt="City Tap House" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/-oXv2KUPRT78yUVkIjNBq-Gu0rE=/29x0:651x467/1310x983/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/50162077/citytaphouse.0.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>City Tap House | <a href='https://www.facebook.com/CityTapPennQtr/photos/a.1376249075936224.1073741827.1376145815946550/1831085380452589/?type=3&theater'>Facebook</a></figcaption>
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<p>Politics is always more fun with alcohol</p> <p>Nothing says "D.C." like getting friends together at a bar to watch an event like the State of the Union address or the Presidential debates. The Republican and Democratic Conventions offer even more political fun.</p>
<p>Here are some solid options where enthusiasts or jeerers can watch the parties officially nominate their respective candidates: Too jaded to care about politics? Then numb the pain caused by politicians' empty words with lots of drinks.</p>
<p><b>City Tap House</b><br><i>901 9th St. NW</i><br><b> The deal: </b>Order an all-American beer flight and a bite on Thursday, July 21 and Thursday, July 28. For $20.16, convention watchers can get a hot pretzel with mustard paired with four beers from 21st Amendment Brewery. The special will be available from 5 p.m. - 11 p.m. on both days.</p>
<p><b>Lincoln</b><br><i>1110 Vermont Ave. NW</i><br><b>The deal: </b>The restaurant named after the former president is fittingly offering a special for the conventions. Their Trump and Clinton themed cocktails are back this week. Try them while watching the convention and place a vote for the candidates with an order. Find more information <a href="http://lincolnrestaurant-dc.com/uncategorized/watch-the-national-conventions-with-us-our-new-cocktails/">here</a>.</p>
<p><b>Nellie's Sports Bar</b><br><i>900 U St. NW</i><br><b>The deal: </b>The U Street bar is also planning to show coverage of the RNC on July 21 from 7:30 p.m.-11:30 p.m.</p>
<p><b>Number Nine</b><br><i>1435 P St. NW</i><br><b>The deal: </b>The bar is already gearing up to watch Hillary Clinton's acceptance speech on July 28 at 9 p.m.</p>
<p><b>Union Pub</b><br><i> 201 Massachusetts Ave. NE</i><br><b> The deal:</b> Union Pub had $1 jello shots during Trump's speech.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Penn Social</b><br><i>801 E St. NW</i><br><b>The deal: </b>Attend the RNC (July 18-21) and DNC (July 25-28) watch parties with games and drink specials like themed punches ($5) and Miller Lites and Yuengling ($4). <span>Read all about the events </span><a style="line-height: 1.5; background-color: #ffffff;" href="http://www.pennsocialdc.com/?project=wilhelmina-pop-up">here</a><span>.</span></p>
<p><b>Shaw's Tavern</b><br><i>520 Florida Ave. NW</i><br><b>The deal: </b>The restaurant plans to show coverage on the night of Trump's speech, starting at 7:30 p.m. on July 21.</p>
<p><b>Ventnor</b><br><i>2411 18th St. NW</i><br><b>The deal: </b>The Adams Morgan sports bar will be showing every night of both conventions during the next two weeks. Ventnor promises convention-<span>themed food and drink specials during the coverage.</span></p>
https://dc.eater.com/2016/7/20/12236222/convention-speeches-dc-barsMeredith Bethune2016-07-19T17:00:03-04:002016-07-19T17:00:03-04:00Second Location of All-Purpose Coming; Jamie MacBain IN at Dram and Grain
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<img alt="All-Purpose in Shaw" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/S08r3XuZxiPO0sK7SRfoZQl9uI4=/0x0:1334x1001/1310x983/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/50155517/allpurpose7.0.0.0.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>All-Purpose in Shaw | <a href='http://underabushel.com'>R. Lopez</a></figcaption>
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<p>Plus, Shake Shack adds new menu items</p> <p><i>NAVY YARD— </i>All-Purpose has only been open a few months, but the owners are already planning a second location. <i>Washingtonian</i> <a href="https://www.washingtonian.com/2016/07/19/all-purpose-coming-to-navy-yard/" style="background-color: #ffffff;">reports</a> the new restaurant will open at the Dock79 development next summer. Expect a larger space and an attached takeout shop doing Sicilian pizza. [Washingtonian]</p>
<p><i>ADAMS MORGAN— </i> <i>Washington Post</i> <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/going-out-guide/wp/2016/07/19/jamie-macbain-takes-over-the-bar-at-dram-and-grain/">reports</a> Jamie MacBain, formerly of Daikaya and Bourbon Steak, has joined the bartending team at Dram and Grain. [WaPo]</p>
<p><i>SHACK ATTACK— </i>Shake Shack is adding some special items to their menu for the summer. Try bacon cheddar fries, a chocolate cookies & cream shake, and a Shack shandy this season. [EaterWire]</p>
<p><i>THE CRITICS— </i>Tim Carman <a href="http://firstwefeast.com/features/2016/07/washington-dc-best-restaurants/">lists</a> his favorite D.C. area restaurants for First We Feast. Picks include Little Serow, El Sol, and Texas Jack's. [FWF]</p>
https://dc.eater.com/2016/7/19/12227844/second-location-of-all-purpose-coming-jamie-macbain-in-at-dram-andMeredith Bethune