Napoli Pasta Bar, just 18 months old, is a new Italian eatery in Columbia Heights serving up classic Neapolitan cuisine and already nabbing a 2019 Michelin DC Guide Bib Gourmand honor. The intimate neighborhood space has enticed me since I saw the colorful plates adorning the tables through the expansive bay windows, and watched as the cozy patio was added to the entrance.
Read MoreBe Present at this Gift of an Eatery in Falls Church
Family owned Vietnamese restaurant, Present, located in Falls Church, VA is truly a gift. The eatery was named and designed as a retreat for families to gather together, share food, and live in the moment. That’s exactly what we did when we feasted on the cuisine.
Read MoreSlurp it Up in Rockville
There are few reasons why I leave the District. Having spent many years commuting on 270 and 66, I tend to stay within the beltway and explore all of the culinary delights that DC proper has to offer. However, I've found the perfect spot for those of you who live north of the diamond -- Akira Ramen & Izakaya.
Read MoreGet off your roost and roast!
Ok, folks, it’s 2018 and you need to learn to roast perfect f#$%ing chicken already. The time has come for you to put down that dry rotisserie chicken from the grocery store (yes, even the one from Costco…and I LOVE Costco), and learn how to roast your own bird. It takes literally 15 minutes of prep and will taste SO. MUCH. BETTER.
Read MoreCrispy AF
I'm all about a flavorful recipe that utilizes affordable cuts of meat and healthy-ish accompaniments, especially for week-night suppers. I stumbled across this Bon Appétit recipe that highlights the splendor of bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs -- a favorite protein of mine. Upon discovering it was a one-pan meal with minimal items to prep, I was hooked.
Read MoreDolci Gelati and WTF serve up sweet homemade gelato in the District
Summer may be winding down, but these DC sweet spots are heating up! Dolci Gelati and WTF (Woodward Takeout Food) are crafting homemade gelatos that have people, and puppies, lining up! Gelato is perfect for back-to-school date nights, a quick treat while walking the dog, tasting flavors with an old friend, or just indulging in some decadent homemade delights. There's something for everyone at these two spots, so go ahead, treat yourself!
Read MoreCuriously Craveable
I've been attempting a Whole 30/paleo diet the past few weeks and things are going GREAT. I feel great, I've lost some weight, I'm super motivated, and I'm a lot less lethargic. The one thing saving me from my carboholic tendencies? POTATOES. My absolute favorite new potato recipe are these chile lime sweet potato fries. They take less than 10 minutes to prepare and they're ready in 40 minutes, with no mess from a deep fryer. Keep reading for this completely addicting recipe...
Read MoreChinese/Korean Counter Service Draws Crowds in Barracks Row
The newest addition to the increasingly popular Barracks Row neighborhood is a Chinese/Korean collaboration called CHIKO. Well-known DC chefs Scott Drewno and Danny Lee team up to create the ultimate Asian-fusion concept that will leave you wanting to come back every. single. day. It is 100% my favorite restaurant of the moment, and I highly encourage you to get in to CHIKO before the line wraps around the block.
Read MoreSouthern Hospitality, lovingly referred to as SoHo by its regulars, is a staple in the District's Adams Morgan neighborhood. Since opening in 2011, college grads and night life lovers have been calling this hot spot their favorite watering hole. Bartenders sling drinks at a rapid pace, always with a smile, and TVs line the bar for optimal viewing of our DC teams. It's always packed, and NOT just because of the great drink specials.
This "bar" is a restaurant, too, you guys! With a sprawling patio and upstairs dining room, it's not only a great place to take shots with your besties, but also a great place to grab a bite to eat at a reasonable price, or host an event. Yes, they are known for their brunch, but I'm telling you, you should stop by for apps during dinner service, too!
Read MoreGET YOUR SLURP ON
Ramen is not just a trend, it's a movement. The Japenese comfort classic is taking the U.S. by storm with new and interesting takes on the traditional noodle bowl. With the help of photographer Andrew Sherman, I'll walk you through the BEST places to get ramen in DC. Not only will I tell you where to go, I'll tell you what to order! Trust me on this - we spent days trying ramen and I wouldn't steer you wrong. No matter where you choose to go, slurp with confidence and feel all of your troubles melt away through the power of ramen.
Read MoreFrancesco Amodeo, founder of Don Ciccio & Figi, is an Amalfi Coast alchemist bringing century old family liqueur recipes from Italy to DC - and everywhere in between. I caught up with him and his booming business to feature as our April Hangry Hero!
Read MoreJapanese If You Please
City Center DC's newest eatery, Umaya, is a Japanese-style Izakaya serving classic cuisine that left a smile on my face from start to finish. Ramen may be a growing trend in the city, but where can you get authentic robatayaki? Umaya is the place. Chef Nick Hoang dazzles the palate with exquisitely prepared dishes such as traditional yakitori and ramen, and displays his creativity and skill with daily specials. It is rare that I love every single dish at a restaurant, but I could not get enough at Umaya - I highly recommend you check this place out before it's impossible to get a spot at the robatayaki!
Read MoreGet your Southern Fix in the DMV!
Hen Quarter opened its second location in the DMV last week in Silver Spring, MD, owing to the success of their flagship restaurant in Alexandria, VA. The Southern-style restaurant features all things comfort food, boasting a family focused atmosphere and supporting sustainable agriculture in the region. I had the opportunity to check out the new brick and mortar for the grand opening and will share my thoughts below on how to approach the down home eatery.
Read MoreBe the Brunch Hero
One of my favorite breakfast/brunch staples is the frittata – a fluffy egg pie that can be stuffed with any ingredient combination you can dream up. Forget making omelettes to order or poaching eggs for a crowd, just pop this baby in the oven and get your mimosa on with your friends! Frittatas are delicious, impressive, and surprisingly easy AF to whip up. Here’s my recipe for a loaded veggie frittata so decadent you’ll never miss the meat. Don’t be intimidated – it will be egg-cellent (groan).
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