Thinking of Drinking: Passion Chili Whiskey Fizz

This is a signature cocktail for J and G Steakhouse which is a twist on the classic Whiskey Sour. It gets a kick from Red Thai Chile and bright, juicy, tart and fruity notes from the Passion Fruit.  Happy Bourbon Heritage Month!

Upcoming Events: Brunch, Oktoberfest and More!

 El Centro D.F., located in the lively 14^th street neighborhood at 1819 14^th Street, NW, 20009, is serving up all-you-can-eat authentic Mexican brunch on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Priced at $35 per person (tax and gratuity not included), guests can enjoy an endless selection from the entire brunch menu, with options such as Shrimp Ceviche with habanero citrus sauce and pico de gallo; Mexican French Toast and Huevos Divorciados, smothered in green and red sauce with chorizo and bean purée. Bottomless brunch drinks, such as the Michilada, Bloody Maria and choice of seasonal Aqua Fresca cocktails, complement the unlimited brunch offering.  The all-you-can-eat brunch menu must be ordered for the entire table, and all items are available a la carte priced between $5 and $12.95. 

Mike Isabella Brings Crazy Good Italian to the Masses

By Ashley Eames

Capital Cooking Contributor

Mike Isabella is one busy man. With two successful D.C. restaurants under his belt, a “Best New Chef” accolade from FOOD and WINE Magazine, and numerous highlights from the ever popular show Top Chef, Isabella can now add cookbook author to his long list of credentials. Isabella recently hosted a launch party and signing at Graffiato to unveil his first book, Mike Isabella’s Crazy Good Italian. 

Seasonal Ingredients: Butternut Squash

Photo by Emily Clack

Earlier today, I shared my Creamy Butternut Squash Soup recipe.  You can find this fall recipe and many more in the Capital Cooking Cookbook. 

Perfect Pair: Champagne Dinner

“Bonjour Mademoiselle.” These were the first words I heard when I walked into iCi Urban Bistro. Two seconds earlier, I had been on the streets of D.C. With the blink of an eye, I was transported to France. Having spent time living in Paris, I yearn for the days I spent sipping champagne and slowly devouring dishes of rich French cuisine. Saturday night, I got the opportunity to do just that at iCi Urban Bistro's Fête de la Gastronomie Française Champagne Dinner.

Nutella Breakfast Tour hits DC!

Food trucks have been all the rage in DC. Nutella® is getting in on the action with their upcoming breakfast tour. Make sure to track down the truck from October 16-20th for some samples that will awaken your taste buds. You can even get a Nutella Breakfast tour t-shirt. Check out the event page to RSVP and learn more!

Congratulations to Chaudra!

We're so happy for you guys!  Enjoy every minute of your wedding day!!

Thinking of Drinking: The Insider

Photo by Dan Swartz

Celebrate National Bourbon Heritage Month with Brennan Adam's cocktail from A BAR.

Thinking of Drinking: Bourbon Cocktails

 Celebrate National Bourbon Heritage Month with these two cocktails from Al Dente.

Upcoming Events: Oktoberfest Reston, Masa 14 White Party and More!

Black Restaurant Group Chefs/Owners Jeff and Barbara Black are excited to host the one-year anniversary celebration of their vibrant 14^th street dual restaurant, Pearl Dive Oyster Palace and Black Jack, on September 20, 2012.  Tickets are priced at $150 (pre-sale until September 1st) and include unlimited fresh seafood with signature dishes from Pearl Dive’s delicious menu, live music entertainment, and an open bar. 

Overview: Scofflaw's Den Cocktail Classes

By Ashley Eames

Capital Cooking Contributor

There are some basic life skills that everyone should learn: know how to do laundry, know how to make at least one signature dish, and perhaps most importantly, know how to make a perfect martini. This weekend I learned just that, in addition to helpful tips on how to stock your home bar.

Spotlight: Gina Chersevani

Meet Gina Chersevani.  I was intrigued by Gina's talent when I first met her years ago at PS7's.  In her new role as a partner with Chef Jamie Leeds of Hank’s Oyster Bar on Capitol Hill, she developed the entire beverage program for the restaurant, as well as the artful cocktail list.  

Overview: Bodega

Initial thoughts:

• Design and Decor:  Spanish-themed décor
• Food:  Traditional Spanish Cuisine

Around the Globe: Simms Steakhouse in Denver

This past week I visited Denver and thought that while I was in town, I should hit up a steakhouse since when I think of the Rocky Mountains, I think... BEEF.  I decided to go to Simms Steakhouse to sample their happy hour menu and enjoy the view.  They had an awesome patio seating area overlooking the city.

Thank you to our September Partners with 4Bitten Media!

Photo by Bart Kendrick

We would like to take a moment to thank this month's advertisers on Capital Cooking.

Happy Birthday L-Bo!

Looking forward to celebrating tonight!!

Thinking of Drinking: Bourbon Furnace

Photo by Bryn Wallace

September is National Bourbon Heritage Month!  Fall is right around the corner.  It is time to break out the hot apple cider.  You can make this recipe in large quantities for a party in a crock pot.

Recipe: Apple Pear Chutney

Photo by Emily Clack

September is National Apple Month.  Try this Apple Pear Chutney recipe.  It is great as an after dinner treat paired with an assortment of cheeses.  I particularly like Cypress Grove cheese as well as Crave Brothers.  This recipe is perfect for the fall.  I made it last weekend with pork chops and it was delicious.  

Upcoming Events: Grape Festival, Vintage Crystal and More!

Zaytinya Celebrates its Second Annual Grape Festival:  Through September 16^th, taste the fruit’s endless variations with grape-inspired dishes and cocktails through exciting events and menu specials priced between $8.50 and $18.  

Eat with Your Eyes: Soupe A L'Oignon

Is your mouth watering?  Try making Chef Spike Mendelsohn's Soupe A L'Oignon in celebration of Kraut Rocks. 

Re-cap: FNO Georgetown

By Claire Goldman

On Thursday, September 6th, Georgetown BID hosted it's annual soiree of style.  Fashionistas, savvy shoppers, and red carpet lovers alike flock to M  Street to see and be seen at Fashions Night Out.  This was my third time attending this celebration of style and this year those FNO pedicabs were busier than ever, I really saw proof that the people of the District love style!

FREE Yogurt!

Beginning this week DC-area PINKBERRY stores will offer FREE Greek Yogurt every Wednesday until October 3 from 11 am until 2 pm. This newly-introduced delicacy has become a popular choice for a breakfast treat – now PINKBERRY wants to provide it to customers as a lunch snack.

First Taste: Boqueria Brunch

Initial thoughts:

• Food: Twists on Spanish classics

Give-Away: Win 2 Tix to Vintage Crystal

Vintage Crystal: A Taste of Wine and Jazz – This Weekend
A convenient, metro-friendly addition to the Virginia wine festival scene, enjoy sips of wine provided by Jaleo and tempting tastes from local restaurants. Free Salsa dancing lessons from The Salsa Room, Latin Jazz from Trio Caliente and wine tasting classes from the Washington Wine Academy round out the sixth installment of this local favorite.

Recipe: Poached Chicken Legs Supreme

September is National Chicken month.  Try my Poached Chicken Legs with Supreme Sauce. We made this dish during chicken week at L'Academie de Cuisine. First we butchered a whole chicken and we used each part to make a dish. You will love the creamy Supreme Sauce.

Give-Away: Kraut Rocks Prize Pack

For today’s foodie generation, sauerkraut can be a mystery ingredient.   That’s why a group of trendsetting Washington D.C.  chefs have joined together for Kraut Rocks.  Led by celebrity chef Spike Mendelsohn, the chefs are sharing sauerkraut recipes and usage tips with food fans.   The headlining element:  each chef has created a signature sauerkraut dish that he’s featuring on his restaurant menu throughout September.  Get in on the action by entering today to win a Kraut Rocks Prize Pack!

Upcoming Events: Cocktail Classes

Want to explore your inner mixologist? Scofflaw’s Den will be hosting a series of cocktail classes at The Green Pig in Arlington. Classes range from cocktail basics in the Home Bartending 101 class, specialty classes on Whiskey and even themed classes such as Terrifying Tipples that will prepare you for your upcoming Halloween bash.

Upcoming Events: FNO, Grape Festival and More!

Kraut Rocks:  Throughout the month of September, stop into Granville Moore’s, The Queen Vic British Pub, Redline GastroLounge, Toki Underground, or Virtue Feed and Grain to try some Kraut Rocks dishes.  Vote for your favorite to win $250!

Opening: Uptown Tap House

The grand opening of Cleveland Park’s newest dining destination is Thursday September 13th through Saturday, September 15th.

Eat With Your Eyes: Tator Tots

Is your mouth watering? You can find these ooey gooey tator tots filled with melted Gruyere and dipped in spicy ketchup at Food, Wine and Co. These tots are the best I've ever had.

Top 10 Spots for Outdoor Drinks

Labor Day has passed, but this is the perfect time of year to sit outside to enjoy drinks with friends. Here are some of my favorites:

Opening: Union Market

Union Market will open its doors to the public on September 8, 2012.  To celebrate the opening, Union Market will host the Second Annual DC Scoop Artisan Ice Cream competition on September 9, 2012.

Around the Globe: Wild Goose with Apple Vinegar Gravy

On our last day in Sweden, we stopped for a visit in Malmo.  We were greeted by the lovely Mia Klitte to experience A Slice of Swedish Hospitality.  We met Chef Andreas Larsson and went shopping at the Green Market to gather the ingredients needed to prepare dinner.  Mia graciously hosted us at her home to prepare the meal.  Below you'll find one of the recipes that will be featured on Capital Cooking.

Kraut Rocks