Thinking of Drinking: Bourbon Sour

By:  Mark Silva

Celebrate National Bourbon Heritage Month with Joe Ambrose's cocktail from POV.

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. 

Baby Me

Me, 30 years ago.  Hoping 31 is lots of fun!

Recipe: Pumpkin Dip

Yes, it is that time of year! It is pumpkin season. Try my Pumpkin Dip from the Capital Cooking Cookbook. It is quick and easy and is sure to be a big hit.

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. 

Fall Flavors Recipe: Creamy Butternut Squash Soup

Photo by Emily Clack

It is sad for me to admit, but summer is over:(  I love the fall, but I just wasn't ready yet.  I'm hoping that this soup will help pave the way.

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.

Recipe: Bread Pudding topped with Bourbon Sauce

In celebration on National Bourbon Heritage Month, try my Bread Pudding with Bourbon Sauce. Bread Pudding was way for housewives to use old bread. French bread is typical because of the French influence in New Orleans. You can also find this recipe and more in the Capital Cooking Cookbook.

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. 

Fall Recipe: Mixed Greens with Cranberries, Apples, Caramelized Walnuts and Fig Balsamic Vinaigrette

Photo by Bryn Wallace

This salad is perfect for the fall.  All of the best ingredients including cranberries, apples, and fig.  You can also find this recipe and more in the Capital Cooking Cookbook.

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.

Best Benedict in DC

I've been exploring DC's brunch scene and I'm always a fan of Eggs Benedict.  The story goes that in the 1860s, a regular patron of Delmonico's Restaurant in New York, Mrs. LeGrand Benedict, wanted something new to eat.  They served her muffin halves with cooked ham, poached eggs and Hollandaise sauce.  Any restaurant can make a Benedict, but few can make it outstanding.  Here are my top 3 favorite places to order Eggs Benedict in DC:

Boqueria's Huevos Benedictinos:  It is basically a Spanish spin on Eggs Benedict with Serrano ham, and it is so freaking good!!

Perfect Pair: Potato Gratin

September is National Potato Month.  Celebrate with this Potato Gratin paired with some lovely Virginia wines. 

Recipe: Autumn Apple Crisp

September is National Apple Month.  Everyone loves apple crisp!  I didn't expect fall to sneak up on us so fast, but now that it is here, it is time to enjoy delicious fall fruits and vegetables. Apples, pumpkin, figs, avocado, sweet potatoes...

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: Old Fashioned Collins

Celebrate National Bourbon Heritage Month with Park Hyatt Washington's Old Fashioned Collins.

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. 

Recipe: Creamy Mushroom Ragout on Puff Pastry with Sautéed Spinach

September is National Mushroom Month!  I learned this recipe from my training at L'Academie de Cuisine. You can also find this recipe and more in the Capital Cooking Cookbook.

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.

Recipe: Twice Baked Potatoes

September is National Potato Month.  Make some of my Twice Baked Potatoes from the Capital Cooking Cookbook to celebrate!  Use this code for a discount:  5KCP7TEC.  Only $20!

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!

Thinking of Drinking: Raspberry Mojito

With weather like this, I like refreshing drinks.  This raspberry mojito does the trick.  Enjoy your weekend!

Thinking of Drinking: Agricole Daiquiri

The classic style Daiquiri is one of the simplest and tastiest cocktails.  At our 3rd Annual Capital Cooking team party, Nikolai Konick from Rhum Clement joined us to shake up some cocktails. 

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.

Event: Adams Morgan Day Festival

By Claire Goldman

One of the many delights of DC, is the opportunity to change your scenery with just the journey of a few blocks.  The personalities of DC's neighborhoods are what make this city one of the best in the world.  So why not celebrate one of the best 'hoods' with food, fashion and live music?!  The Adams Morgan Day Festival invites you to 'Rediscover Adams Morgan' this year with the newly revamped street scape giving the vibrant melting pot area a facelift we think you might enjoy. 

Kraut Rocks