Out to Brunch: Curious Grape

There's no better way to spend a Sunday than heading to brunch with a girlfriend and cruising to Alexandria for some shopping.

I had the pleasure of test driving the Ford Fusion and I was beyond impressed. This car has to be my favorite car I've driven. The engine is as quiet as a mouse. Who could complain with getting 100 miles/gallon?! The leather interior is beautiful and the car has a smooth ride. My next car purchase will surely be a hybrid. I seriously can't recommend this car enough... I've been raving about it all week.

I digress... back to the delicious brunch:  one of my favorite friends in the world came to DC to visit me.  We headed over to The Curious Grape in Shirlington, VA to try their new Sparkling Sunday Brunch.  Owner and wine expert, Suzanne McGrath, laid out the menu so you can perfectly pair each course with bubbly.

No brunch trip to The Curious Grape would be complete without tasting Executive Chef Eric McKamey's Doughnuts with Wild Boar served with hoisin sauce, cilantro and pickled onion.  While this dish might sound a little crazy, it was our favorite.  The sweet and spicy boar melts in your mouth inside of the baby doughnut sprinkled with powdered sugar.

For a slightly sweeter appetizer, try the Ricotta Blintzes with cranberry compote, caramelized honey, thyme and olive oil.  

Make sure to order one of their mini-souffles.  These warm little treats are great snacks in between your appetizer and main course.

For something a little different, check out the Chinese Breakfast served with creamy calasparra rice with roasted pork, marinated anchovy and fried egg.

I liked the Shrimp with Pork Belly and Cheddar Polenta.  The creamy and cheesy grits hit the spot.

To complement its wine list at brunch, The Curious Grape also offers 3 unique Bloody Mary cocktails made with wine.  Our top choice was the Beijing Mary with sake, soy sauce, wasabi and sesame oil.   

Brunch at The Curious Grape is served Sundays from 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM.