Weekend: Cooking, Eating and Drinkng

Friends came for a visit from my hometown of St. Louis and we took them around Washington, DC for a good time. We started at Tabaq on U Street. When we got there our reservation wasn't ready, but they did give us a house glass of champagne while we waited. The service wasn't great this time and they even served us a warm bottle of white wine, but the food was good.



Next we went for drinks in the basement of Saint Ex. When they didn't have Bud Light, it left our St. Louis friends disappointed so we made our way to Policy. We did drink one Miller Light and danced to the 80s music. This spot is better for the end of the evening. Also, it is a nice place to sit outside for dinner. Saint Ex actually has really good food, but it is a little pricey.


At Policy, we had a few expensive drinks and did lots of dancing. Fun atmosphere and good crowd. I've eaten here before and they have some tasty small plates.


We couldn't end the night without going to Ben's Chili Bowl for a chili half smoke and cheese fries. It is always packed...even on Labor Day weekend. Our guests were happy to get a taste.


Saturday, I made our house guests a quick cheese stolen, Bloody Marys and turkey sausage strata. They left for their tour of the White House and I left for the market on 14th and U. It was a beautiful day and I bought some beautiful produce to make fresh homemade nectarine, peach and blackberry jam. I also purchased some multi-colored eggplant that is perfect for roasting, heirloom tomatoes and some big sunflowers. I spent the day making jam and then we went to the Nationals game. After a little baseball, we made our way to Bistrot du Coin in Dupont Circle. Bistrot du Coin has a lively atmosphere and is one of our favorite French bistros in town. The French Onion Soup was thick and cheesy. My ravioli was amazing.


Sunday, I made some Eggs Benedict on croissants with prosciutto and we tried some of the homemade jam on the baguettes. After that I made a chicken salad sandwich ring and we were off to Tarara Winery in Virginia. We did a tasting and enjoyed a couple of bottles and headed back to DC for drinks at Marvin. Despite the rain, Marvin was still packed. Marvin has a great Belgium beer selection and you can't beat the location. It is a great place to be outside and enjoy drinks with friends.


On Monday, we made some waffles with sliced peaches and whipped cream and had to say good-bye to our St. Louis friends. We hope they come visit real soon...or move here!!