Charity in Chocolate Fashion Show Returns Sept. 6

The Heart of America Foundation's Charity in Chocolate Fashion Show, sponsored by Baci Perugina and hosted by the lovely Kate Michaels, returns this Friday September 6th. Mark your calendars for a fashionably sweet evening at the Mandarin Oriental, where live models will strut the runway dressed in  haute couture that has been replaced with edible chocolate attire. Don't miss the chance to see the amazing talent of 14 area pastry chefs modeled right before your eyes.

Thinking of Drinking: Foggy Bottom Breeze

Tonic offers a wide variety of cocktails including the Foggy Bottom Breeze. I loved this cocktail because it is light and refreshing. The basil adds a nice herbal flavor. Stop in for some tots and sit outside for a Foggy Bottom Breeze.

Thinking of Drinking: Casablanca Cocktail

-->Feel like you've traveled to Morocco without leaving DC by trying this Casablanca Cocktail.  Are you thinking of drinking?  I am.  You can find this recipe and more in the Capital Cooking Cookbook.

Thinking of Drinking: Watermelon Martini

I love watermelon in the summer. This cocktail combines both my love of watermelon and my desire to sip on alcoholic beverages. Enjoy! 

Upcoming Events Around DC

Thursday, 8/29 – Art After Dark 2013: Head over to the Art Museum of the Americas for the Art After Dark event from 8pm to 12:30am. The event will be held in the Fusion collection, which traces the migration of artists or their families to the Americas from Asia during the second half of the 19th century and the first half of the 20th century. Art After Dark features video art projected on the historic OAS headquarters building, performances from Dangerous Muse (as premiering their new music video, Fame Kills) and DJ Shea Van Horn spinning tracks all night long. The $25 admission ticket includes drinks and VIP Tickets (with access to private bar and early entry) are $45 and a variety of food trucks will be on-site for the event. For tickets and more information, visit http://www.museum.oas.org/aad.html.

3 Things to Taste at Carriage House

Looking for good food in Adams Morgan?  Carriage House has you covered.  Sit outside on their patio to enjoy the weather.

First Taste: Fogo de Chão

Hard to believe, but I had never got a taste of Fogo de Chão before this summer.

Opening Today: doi moi

Photo by Zagat

doi moi, the Southeast Asian restaurant located at 1800 14th Street, NW in Logan Circle, opens today. The third restaurant from Proprietor Mark Kuller and Chef/Partner Haidar Karoum, who also opened Proof together in 2007 and Estadio in 2010, doi moi pays tribute to the culinary traditions and regional dishes found throughout Thailand and Vietnam.

Tubing, Barbecuing, Shenandoah-ing

We recently amped up our run of summer fun with a quick trip to the gorgeous Shenandoah for three days of tubing, barbecue, and R and R revelry.

#getfresh campaign

The Fresh 20 supports healthy eating habits as kids head back to school this year. They’re on a mission to find The Freshest Kids in America by asking kids the question, “How do you #getfresh?” Utilizing any social platform, parents can submit either a video or a photo of how their children #getfresh on health. The campaign offers children and their parents a unique opportunity to get creative with their fresh and healthy habits and to get kids involved in their own health decisions. Check out their site for #getfresh back to school ideas. www.thefresh20.com/getfresh

Thinking of Drinking: Tiki Tuesdays at Tonic

By: Garrett Lamm

The new garden patio at Tonic at Quigly’s is the perfect space to enjoy the summer weather. Tiki torches line the perimeter, the exposed brick façade provides shade, and plenty of wooden tables and chairs outside allow for an inviting and comfortable atmosphere on the street level of this historic neighborhood. Located in Foggy Bottom at 21st and G Streets, N.W., Tonic is a fantastic place to socialize outside, or to sit down for evening drinks and appetizers. The college students or young professionals in the area are sure to enjoy this new addition to an already established restaurant/bar.

Upcoming Events Around DC

Today

Thursday, 8/22 – Chuck Brown Birthday Bash Celebration: Come celebrate the “Godfather of Go-go” in one legendary night this Thursday at the Howard Theater. The Chuck Brown Birthday Show has long been a tradition in Washington, DC with some of the most memorable and special performances and guest appearances ever seen at a Chuck Brown concert. The Chuck Brown All-Star Band continues that tradition and its mission to party and rock the house for all who loved Chuck Brown and the music he created and keeping the Legacy of Chuck Brown with us always. The show starts at 8pm and tickets are $20. For more information, visit http://thehowardtheatre.com/show/2013/08/22/the-chuck-brown-birthday-bash-celebration-feat-the-chuck-brown-all-star-band/.

Wat Po Temple of the Reclining Buddha in Bangkok, Thailand

First Taste: Malmaison

Initial Thoughts:

Around the Globe: Kaow Soi Gai

After touring the local Thai food market, we headed back to the The Four Seasons Cooking School. 

Opening: Ted's BULLETIN on 14th St.

As of 7 AM Monday, August 19th, Ted's BULLETIN on 14th St. (1818 14th St. to be exact) is officially open for business.

Menu Re-vamp: Mad Fox Brewing Company

By:  Jennifer Duff
Capital Cooking Contributor

DC Beer Week is August 11 - 18th and one of craft brewers participating in the week long celebration is Mad Fox Brewing Company, based out of Falls Church, VA.  Mad Fox Brewing is a brewpub featuring craft beers (brewed in house in a 15 barrel brewing system) paired with pub-style menu options that range from traditional American fare (like burgers and specialty pizzas) to dishes with an international flair (like Korean or German).  The creative, fun menu and clever craft brews highlight the overall atmosphere at the brewpub -- relaxed and fun, with a focus on people and community. 

Upcoming Events Around DC

Today

Thursday, 8/15 – Beers, Burgers and Baseball: A Celebration of DC Beer Week at Nationals Park: Take me out to the ballgame! As part of DC Beer Week head over to National’s Park on Thursday, August 15 from 3:30-8:30pm as the Washington Nationals take over the Red Porch. Join this special event, as our hometown heroes take on the visiting San Francisco Giants. This exclusive, $55 ticket includes a Scoreboard Pavilion game ticket, entrance to the post-game party with a live band and two hour tasting event (approximately 45 minutes after the conclusion of the game), unlimited beer samples and Shake Shack™ burger with French fries. Brews include local craft beers like DC Brau Citizen Pale Ale, Flying Dog Snake Dog IPA, Mad Fox Kolsch, and Port City Monumental IPA. Tickets are available at http://nationals.com/dcbeerweek.

Cooking with Beer: Baja Fish Tacos

Summer time is perfect for cooking with beer.  I like to make my Baja Fish Tacos.  I usually use tilapia, but you could use cod or another similar fish.

The Grand Palace in Bangkok, Thailand

Best Summer Get-aways

Me and my nephew

Where's your favorite place when you want a weekend get-away out of DC?   Recently we told you where to find the best summer cocktails, frozen treats, brunch, seafood, rooftops, meat-free and burgers.  Here's our list!

Uncorked: Flight Night

By: Lauren Rittermann

Capital Cooking Contributor

Jose Andres, Jaleo, sets the standard for Spanish restaurants across the country, and is now offering a little something special this Summer.  Jaleo in Bethesda and Crystal City want you to experience and celebrate the culture, cuisine, and grapes of Spain with their 11th Annual Paella Festival, Monday Night Flight Nights, and Tour of Spain program.  Recently, I had the chance to check it all out, and it was quite a delicious experience. 

Recipe: Ricotta Honey Spread

I recently hosted a dinner party with an Italian theme.  I came up with this delicious spread for an appetizer and it was a big hit.

DC Beer Week: Brooklyn Brewery Beer Dinner at Zaytinya

What: José Andrés and his team at the award-winning restaurant Zaytinya are partnering with Brooklyn Brewery, www.brooklynbrewery.com, to offer a unique Beer Pairing Dinner Event during DC BEER WEEK. Priced at $60 per person(tax and gratuity not included), the dinner will showcase six beers from the acclaimed craft brewery, featuring special large format selections like the Sorachi Ace and limited time only Silver Anniversary Lager, paired with a menu specially designed by Zaytinya Head Chef Michael Costa.

First Taste: Angler's Inn

We were greeted at The Angler's Inn and made our way to our seats on their amazing patio for a beautiful evening.  

Where I'm Headed: Iowa, Puerto Rico, NYC

I can't believe five months have passed since our trip to Africa.    While I'm taking it easy on the 20+ hour travel destinations, we have some fun stuff coming up.

Summer Recipe: Napoleon of Fresh Berries and Strawberry Coulis

Berry season is here and this recipe is the perfect way to highlight the flavor. We first made this recipe on Capital Cooking's French Style Cuisine with Chef Paul Stearman from Marcel's.

Re-cap: McCormick Chef Challenge

The Citi Open, benefiting the Washington Tennis and Education Foundation, returned to Rock Creek Park from July 27-August 4th. Though things heated up on the court during this nine day tennis tournament, the most heated competition took place off the court as Bravo's Top Chef finalist, ABC’s The  Chew co-host and owner of Alchemy, Carla Hall; Bravo’s Top Chef competitor and owner of Belga Café and B Too, Bart Vandaele; and defending champion and owner of Taco Bamba and Del Campo, Victor Albisu, competed in the McCormick Chef Challenge.

Sticky Fingers Unveils New Menu

By Rachel Pryor

DC's own vegan bakery heaven just got even better, unveiling some new treats, both sweet and savory....and all delicious. I was excited to taste some of the new offerings from my favorite cupcake shop.

Happy Birthday Kitty!

Love you!

Inside the Capital Cooking Cookbook

Capital Cooking Cookbook Promo from Capital Cooking on Vimeo.

Video by Nick Szpara

The Capital Cooking Cookbook is the first cookbook from Lauren DeSantis, the host of the nationally televised show Capital Cooking.

Upcoming Events Around DC

Today

Thursday, 8/8 – Ballston FRESHFARM Farmer’s Market: On Thursday, from 3-7pm, head over to Ballston’s FRESHFARM Farmer’s Market to stock up on local, seasonal produce and other artisan treats. Easy to access in Welburn Square (901 North Taylor Street), and right across from the Ballston Metro, the farmer’s market offers goats' milk cheeses and yogurt smoothies, tree and field fruit, vegetables, honey and beeswax beauty products, crab cakes and dips, eggs, meat, pies, preserves, cut flowers, breads, pastries and more. The market also boasts weekly chef demos and live music. For more information, visit http://www.freshfarmmarkets.org/farmers_markets/markets/ballston.php.

Opening: Flat Iron Steak and Saloon

After a soft opening that lasted several days, Flat Iron Steak and Saloon, the newest dining option on King Street in Old Town Alexandria, officially opened for business on Friday, July 26th. We stopped by a preview event the week of the grand opening to sample their menu.

St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Savannah, Georgia

Savannah has tons of historic churches.  This Victorian Gothic Cathedral was dedicated in 1876.

Best Meat-Free Options in DC

Ask and you shall receive.  Recently we told you where to find the best summer cocktails, frozen treats, brunch, seafood, rooftops and burgers. One of our readers requested a list of the Best Meat-Free Options.  

I asked the writers of Capital Cooking for their selections. Comment below to let us know what you think!

Recipe: Bruschetta

Summer is a great time to enjoy tomatoes. This Bruschetta recipe is perfect for your next dinner party. Enjoy!

First Taste: Al Tiramisu

Initial Thoughts:

• Food:  Traditional Italian dishes taken to new heights.
• Drinks: Exceptional wine and house-made liqueurs
• Service: Outstanding. All of the staff was terrific. They go above and beyond to make everyone feel welcome.
• Would I go back?  Absolutely!

Jaleo 11th Annual Paella Festival Launch!

By: Lauren Rosalanko

The 2-week long 11th Annual Paella Festival at all three DC-metro area Jaleo locations, Penn Quarter, Crystal City and Besthesda is going on now. During the festival they will offer many limited edition paellas that are not typically on Jaleo's menu. I was able to sample six paella dishes and each one brought a unique taste that I had never had in a paella before.

Cookbook Review -- The Leafy Greens Cookbook

If you've been to a farmers market lately or belong to a CSA, you've no doubt got some greens that you haven't cooked with before.  While you can sauté and serve practically any green, you're  probably wondering what to do with at least some of them -- we've all been told to eat more leafy greens and it's a shame to pass them up when they're fresh and local.  The Leafy Greens Cookbook by Kathryn Anible can help sort out the confusion.

Thinking of Drinking: Pomegranate Margarita

Photo by Emily Clack

Thirsty?

Thinking of Drinking: El Presidente

At our 3rd Annual Capital Cooking team party, Nikolai Konick from Rhum Clement joined us to shake up some cocktails.  He squeezed some of the lemon oil into the drink while lighting it on fire. 

Beautiful Beaches of Kenting, Taiwan

Photo by Kristen Finn

Upcoming Events Around DC

14th Annual MidCity Dog Days of August Sidewalk Festival: Over 70 stores, boutiques, restaurants and art galleries throughout the MidCity Corridor of Washington, D.C. will be participating in this year’s Annual MidCity Dog Days of August Sidewalk Festival on Saturday, August 3 and Sunday, August 4. Much more than a sidewalk sale, the MidCity Dog Days of August features special events, sales, family events and restaurant deals throughout the 14th Street (MidCity) Corridor, which comprises 14th Street from Florida Avenue to Thomas Circle and just off U Street from 9th to 17th Streets, Northwest. On the fashion front, area boutiques including Junction, Current Boutique, and Redeem will feature sales of up to 60% on current season clothing and accessories and other sidewalk specials. Restaurants will be holding special events and offering patrons MidCity Dog Days specials on food and libations including Cork Market, Saint Ex, and Pearl Dive Oyster Bar. In addition to the great sales, MidCity Dog Days will also feature art, literature and cultural exhibits, performances, giveaways and deals from Som Records, 9:30 Club, and The Howard Theatre amongst others. Join us to shop, dine and enjoy the experience in the city's most culturally diverse neighborhood!