Yume Sushi Features Japanese Delicacies at Tasting Counter

Traditional Omakase Transports Arlington Diners to Japan

At Yume Sushi in Arlington, Chef Saran (Peter) Kannasute takes diners on an intimate dining experience through Japan. Curating the freshest Japanese ingredients directly from the source, Japanese delicacies are shipped overnight and prepared daily for the evening’s Omakase tasting. Omakase or “ I shall leave it up to you” is a traditional Japanese dining experience where the chef prepares seven dishes based on the days’ best offerings. No need to pour over a menu trying to decide what to order, Chef Kannasute will place seven perfect plates in front of you while you sip on local Japanese beers, or sake on draft.

Mintwood Place Unveils Large Format Family Meal Menu

Mintwood Place, a DC staple in Adams Morgan, unveiled their new Family Meal menu, which is easy on the wallet and perfect for enjoying with loved ones and friends. The three-course, family-style feast is priced at $160 and offers guests a rotating list of five nibbles and starters, three entrées, two sides and five seasonal desserts to share, prepared by Chef de Cuisine Matthew Cockrell. Chef Cockrell’s French culinary background is apparent in the classic dishes, adding flair and finesse.

Napoli Pasta Bar: Your Neapolitan Neighborhood Joint

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.

Present Vietnamese Restaurant

Be 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.

Chef Christian Irabién Showcases True Mexican Cuisine at Amparo Fondita

Unfussy Mexican Cuisine

Walking into the newest pop-up, Amparo Fondita, at District Space in Brookland will envelope you with the feeling of having just stepped into your Mexican grandmother's home. You immediately feel welcomed, like you're going to be taken care of - and leave with a full, happy belly.

Lupo Marino Brings Authentic Italian Cuisine at Friendly Prices to The Wharf

Beautiful Food for the Budget Conscious

If you live in DC it should be no surprise that the sparkly new District Wharf is open for business. Tucked amidst the glitz and glamour is Lupo Marino, an Italian street-food concept featuring classic techniques with seasonal pizazz. This budget friendly eatery should be next on your list if making the District Wharf your next staycation destination.

Diners Flock to Fairfax for California Shabu Shabu

The West Coast Phenomenon Hits "DC"

California Shabu Shabu recently opened in Fairfax, VA as the third of it's kind - the first two located in California. It's a casual atmosphere showcasing quality ingredients for an interactive dining experience. There are already regulars at this eatery, located in a shopping center, who recognize the dedication to fresh, high quality ingredients.

Akira Ramen and Izakaya: Worth the to Drive to Rockville

Slurp 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.

Urban Butcher Unveils Endless Carnivore Brunch

Who's ready for the Meat Sweats?

Urban Butcher, known for its award-winning selection of house-butchered meats, charcuterie, and a famous 60-day, dry-aged ribeye, debuted their Endless Carnivore’s Brunch on Sunday, January 21st. This unique, endless brunch experience takes the classic “all you can eat” brunch and kicks it up a notch, adding the butcher’s signature meats and craft cocktails for an experience unlike any other in DC.

Honeysuckle Slays New Bar Menu Debut

Chef Hamilton Johnson debuts fantastic new bar menu

Nestled underground on the bustling M St. NW in DC, Honeysuckle boasts bright murals upon entering the intimate space. Smiling staff greet me in the candlelit entryway and I'm filled with pleasantries, giddy to taste the new creations from chef Hamilton Johnson, formerly of Vidalia.

SoHo DC Review

Southern 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!

Kyirisan

Chinese/French Soul Mates

Kyirisan is Chef Tim Ma's first DC restaurant, and I'm so thankful it has arrived! The modern restaurant, both in decor and cuisine, is inviting and exciting with a small, well-crafted menu designed to please the masses. The fusion of Chinese and French cuisine is exotic and unique, and is something I'm hoping to see more of if it's executed this masterfully.

As I walk in, the enthusiastic and welcoming hostess greets me and I meet my friend at the bar. The bartender wastes no time in helping me select a beverage and surprises us both with a shot of habañero vodka. It is terrifyingly hot, but you should try it just to prove you're not a pussy (hey peer pressure!). Keep reading to find out how I spent my evening.

DC Harvest

Is upscale casual a thing?

So, you may know by know that I am very into all things H Street. What I didn't know about was this little hidden gem called DC Harvest. Tucked away amongst construction and office buildings is DC Harvest, an upscale casual restaurant specializing in mostly local and all homemade ingredients utilizing what's in season - my fave. Check out how I filled my belly below!

ReviewsMichelle StrobelNovember 30, 2016restaurant review, dc harvest, hangry district, little wild things, don ciccio, h street ne, h st ne, local, seasonalComment

Homestead

Comfort in the city

Petworth's Summer opening of Homestead came with mounting anticipation during the past year, as their name had been emblazoned on the wooden slats at the start of construction outlining what would soon be one of their three outdoor dining spaces. The restaurant is in the heart of Petworth, attracting millennials and foodies alike for a taste of the newest hot spot in the ever growing DC food scene. I was excited. I had been following the progress on Instagram, checking out the tentative menu and waiting patiently for the doors to open. What I experienced was incredible service with passionate employees; a warm, buzzing atmosphere; and overpriced food and drink. Here's how it all went down...

Tail Up Goat

G.O.A.T

I find it quite necessary to write about one of DC's G.O.A.T (Greatest Of All Time) restaurants during the final week of the 2016 Summer Olympics. What's more fitting? The restaurant's name, Tail Up GOAT, even alludes to its greatness. This Adams Morgan eatery is inviting, cheerful and delicious, scoring high enough marks to earn it a gold medal in the Hangry District rankings. Even more appealing is knowing that this restaurant is sourcing from local farmers around the area, including one of my all-time faves, Whitmore Farm.

Sally's Middle Name

Sharing is Caring

Sally's Middle Name has been attracting lots of buzz since opening in June of 2015. It has joined the likes of other H Street treasures such as Maketto, DC Harvest, H St. Country Club, and Granville Moore's. The menu changes daily and the small plates are intended to be shared - my favorite way to eat. I'm totally the girl that reaches across the table for a bite of whatever my dining companion is eating before I try my own, #hatersgonnahate. Sally's is the perfect place to go with close friends or family for unique flavors; fresh, local ingredients; and impeccable service. Keep reading to find out what we tried!

- See more at: https://michelle-scholtes.squarespace.com/blog/2016/7/11/sallys-middle-name#sthash.bATVHbcG.dpuf

Convivial

Come Hangry, Leave Happy

Convivial (adj.) relating to or fond of feasting, drinking, and good company, i.e., my online dating profile. Shaw's newest eatery is just that: a place you visit to have fond memories of eating and drinking with great company. Even if you are unsure of your company before you enter the restaurant, you will surely share in some joy together during your dining experience. I was eager to try Convivial and am excited to share my delightful experience of perfectly portioned, French-inspired cuisine with you!

Crane & Turtle

Dinner & A Show

Petworth's Upshur Street is on fire in DC. Joining the likes of this Japanese must-try Crane & Turtle are Slash Run, the Hitching Post, Alex McCoy's anticipated Southeast Asian restaurant and Petworth Citizen to name a few. I have been chomping at the bit to try Crane & Turtle and the experience was surprising and pleasant.

Bad Saint

FilipinO-M-G

Wow. Talk about an evening to remember. My first authentic Filipino food experience was undoubtedly the best I'll ever have and I hope you all take the time to wait for a seat at this incredibly intimate restaurant, Bad Saint.

Daikaya Izakaya

Sake Bombs for "Adults"

It has been almost exactly one year since my trip to Japan, and I have been craving the cuisine. What better way to satiate the craving than to celebrate DC Restaurant Week at Daikaya Izakaya. I've been to Daikaya for the amazing ramen on the first floor and was so excited to try the Izakaya upstairs. I was not disappointed. Keep reading to find out why you should head to Japan for your next meal in the District.