12 Cocktails of Christmas: 7 Swans a Swimming

7 Swans a Swimming is from the Capital Cooking Cookbook. This recipe is perfect for your NYE party.

NYE Appetizer: Meatballs in a Red Wine Sauce

Maybe you're deciding to have a New Year's Eve bash at home this year rather than going out with the crowds.  Sounds fun to me.  If so, consider making these meatballs for an appetizer.  

NYE Recipe: Chorizo Bites

Spice up your New Year's Eve with these delicious Chorizo bites!

Happy Birthday Reilly!

Brunch with Santa

Not much could be cuter than this baby with Santa.  Lucky for you, there is still time to enjoy brunch with Santa at the Roof Terrace Restaurant at the top of the Kennedy Center.  The food was excellent and it was so cute to see all of the kids dressed up.  Don't miss out on the most wonderful time of the year!

Happy Birthday Jolene!

All I Need for Christmas

The Dish on Mosaic District

By: Laurie Wallin

Capital Cooking Contributor

The Mosaic District continues to grow and is quickly becoming one of the DC area’s hottest culinary destinations, and I was able to see why when I attended The Dish – a Mosaic Tasting Tour with four stops at several of their newest restaurants. Not only was this a great event, but it’s something that the average diner could easily do – hop from place to place and create your own “Mosaic District progressive dinner.”

Happy 1 Year Anniversary DCity Smokehouse!

DCity Smokehouse BBQ Eats!

By Lauren Rosalanko

DCity Smokehouse celebrated their 1 year anniversary and I was lucky enough to finally test out almost everything they have to offer! The celebration had a variety of their meats and sides and I was excited to have the opportunity to try a small taste of everything! They offered their brisket, turkey, pork belly, chopped pork, sausage links, and pit smoked wings. For the sides, I was able to try the hush puppies, crispy Brussels sprouts, and house made pickles.

Menu ReVamp: Rialto

One of my favorite Italian restaurants in DC, Rialto, has a new menu that is more delicious than ever!

Holiday Gift Guide: Lauren's Picks

The holidays are right around the corner so it is time to start thinking about finding the perfect gifts for the ones you love.  I'll continue adding more products as I review them.  If you'd like your product considered, please email me at capitalcooking@gmail.com.  Happy Holidays!

Local Picks:

If you don't have a copy yet, get one for yourself and one for all of your friends.  The Capital Cooking Cookbook is only $20 from now until Christmas by using this code:  5KCP7TEC.  Perfect for present to make special cooking memories!

Thinking of Drinking: Champagne Cocktail

Sip on this Champagne Cocktail from Boss Shepherd's.

Cheers to Beer: Pumpkin Beers, Part II

By: Laurie Wallin

Capital Cooking Contributor

Ready to find out the winner of the blind pumpkin beer tasting? This post will reveal the winner by counting down the top 5 pumpkin beers as ranked by our tasters.

The Gibson: New Fall Cocktail Menu

By Claire Goldman/Photographs by Angeline Hsu Somerville

Do not be fooled by the closed shop gate store front, The Gibson is a cozy and dimly lit speakeasy on 14th Street NW (right next to Marvin). The mixologists over at The Gibson are humble about their prolific list of cocktails creations, but these guys have got skill and imagination for days.  Here's a few of our favorites from the new Fall/Winter menu:

First Taste: Medium Rare

I've been meaning to go to Medium Rare for years and I finally made it in last week.  They've got a great concept with bread, salad and steak frites for $19.75.  All of the food is well done and leaves everyone happy.  I loved the perfectly cooked steak and crispy fries.  Yum!

Cheers to Beer: Pumpkin Beers, Part I

By: Laurie Wallin

Capital Cooking Contributor

Thanksgiving is fast arriving, and pumpkin is everywhere – pies, pasta, and beers! Pumpkin beers have exploded onto the scene recently – but there are now so many, it’s hard to choose. Capital Cooking set out to rank pumpkin beers by holding a blind tasting. 10 beers were selected, including Aleworks Pumpkin Ale, Southern Tier Pumking, Dogfish Head Punkin’ Ale, Flying Dog The Fear, Heavy Seas The Greater Pumpkin, Weyerbacher Imperial Pumpkin Ale, Wild Wolf Brewing Company Howling Pumpkin, New Belgium Pumpkick, Devils Backbone Pumpkin Hunter and Ithaca Beer Company Country Pumpkin.  To keep the tasting fair, all chosen beers for this tasting were categorized as “Pumpkin Ale.”

Just Lunch: Pinea

The W Washington DC hotel recently opened a new restaurant with Chef Barry Koslow. 

A Thanksgiving Menu With Pairings

Thanksgiving is almost here. You can't beat the never ending supply of comfort food during the holidays. I'm thankful for that!

Upcoming Events

From Friday, November 14 through Sunday, November 16, Union Market - the vibrant district in Northeast DC – will host Fifth Street Folly, a weekend-long street party. The weekend will feature several signature fashion and food-oriented gatherings throughout the district; the market's free Thread series, Bluejacket’s first ever pop-up beer garden, the ticketed Gilt Sample Sale and the EmporiYUM food festival.

Rio Grande, Puerto Rico

härth Fires Up New Menu

 

By: Laurie Wallin

Capital Cooking Contributor

härth, in the McLean Hilton, recently appointed a new Executive Chef, Luc Dendievel, who recently released a new fall menu. I was pleased to see that the new Chef is taking härth’s commitment to sustainability seriously by sourcing ingredients from local purveyors and continuing to utilize fresh produce from härth’s organic garden and honey from the rooftop beehive. Walking into the restaurant, diners are greeted by a wine cellar across from the kitchen pass, which sits atop hundreds of pieces of firewood. The restaurant’s interior features creamy white walls, wood floors, and numerous fireplaces, providing a sleek, yet comforting atmosphere.

Re-Opening: Embassy Suites Friendship Heights & Willie's Bar

By Lauren Rosalanko

Last Tuesday the Embassy Suites in Friendship Heights hosted its grand reopening after extensive renovations. With the new hotel, they also opened a full-service bar on the 3rd floor in the open a trio space of the hotel. The open space offers an inviting atmosphere, filled with many comfortable seating options, including high communal tables with plenty of outlets for diners' to charge their devices. The bar also has a TV, making it a perfect place to sit back and watch your favorite sports game. The bar is named in honor of Wilfredo Benavides, who passed recently after a battle with ALS/Lou Gehrig's disease. 1% of all proceeds from the bar will be donated in his memory to the ALS Association.

Chilean Culinary Experience: 6 Chefs & 2 Mixologists

By Lauren Rosalanko

This Monday I was able to attend an amazing event at the National Restaurant Association in DC where 6 chefs created dishes to compete for the top spot among the tasters and judges. There were also 2 mixologists and a sommelier sampling some of the best Chilean dishes. Most of the Chilean dishes featured some type of seafood such as shrimp and octopus, while many also had a type of berry or olive oil. Everything was delicious and it was definitely tough to vote on what was my favorite!

Castle of Santa Catalina in Jaén, Spain

We enjoyed lunch at this beautiful castle in Spain 8 years ago during our honeymoon.

Thinking of Drinking: Swing Vote

Using the classic Brown Derby - a true American cocktail - as his inspiration, Adam Bernbach created Basil Hayden’s Swing Vote, a refreshing and contemporary drink that features sweet honey and dry grapefruit notes to highlight the trademark spicy finish of Basil Hayden’s Bourbon. With the addition of Madeira, this cocktail is a one-of-a-kind addition to enjoy while watching the results roll in. In fact, Madeira was a favorite of Thomas Jefferson himself! No matter which party you vote for this November 4th, Basil Hayden’s Swing Vote makes the perfect celebratory (or consoling) cocktail.

The Streets of Ronda, Spain

Out to Brunch: Del Campo

Del Campo recently launched a brand new brunch.  The $45 fixed price menu is inclusive of bottomless items from the a la carte menu as well as bottomless select brunch cocktails. 

Fairytale Brownies for Halloween

Try out these Fairytale Brownies this Halloween!  

Thinking of Drinking: A Walk in the Orchard

It is apple season.  Treat yourself to A Walk in the Orchard. 

Upcoming Events

Thursday, October 23: 10 for 10 Tasting Menu at Belga Cafe: Chef Vandaele guides guests on an exclusive 10-course journey through Belgium’s culinary landscape. The evening begins with a special reception followed by a seated dinner and wine pairing hosted by Chef Bart. Limited seating available and reservations are required. ($125 per person with wine pairings, exclusive of tax and gratuity)  Reception at 6:30 p.m. with dinner at 7 p.m., Belga Café

Recipe: Crab Cakes with Poached Eggs and Aioli

Photo by Emily Clack

A few years ago, we filmed our Sunday Brunch episode with Chef Brian McBride when he worked at Blue Duck Tavern.  He showed us a recipe that takes brunch to the next level.  Spoil yourself with Crab Cakes with Poached Eggs and Aioli.

Out to Brunch: Poste

Poste Moderne Brasserie and newly-appointed Executive Chef Kyoo Eom recently launched a brunch menu with some classic dishes and some unique spins on food to show off Chef's style.  

Menu ReVamp: Trio Grill

 

By: Laurie Wallin

Capital Cooking Contributor

Between the Mosaic District and Halstead Square, the Merrifield area is really becoming a dining gem for those outside the beltway. However, these two areas aren’t the only place where you can dine well in that area – Trio Grill, open for one year and located off Route 29 – recently launched their new fall menu featuring seasonal items and having never dined there, I was excited to try it out. The first thing I noticed when I walked into the restaurant were the warm orange, mahogany and honey tones, large, comfortable leather chairs, four(!) wine cellars, expansive bar and the exposed brick walls, giving the restaurant a warm, cozy feeling.

Just Lunch: Daily Grill

Red Quinoa and Arugula Salad

Daily Grill has some new menu items that are both healthy and delicious.  We always have great meals at this restaurant, but the new menu items really hit the spot.  Get ready to be stuffed with the generous portions!  

Living Mediterranean at Zoës Kitchen

By: Laurie Wallin

Capital Cooking Contributor 

Looking for a fresh taste of the Mediterranean served with a side of Southern Hospitality? Then look no further than Zoës Kitchen, with locations popping up all over the DC area. I visited the Ballston location and was pleased to find a  family-friendly eatery that prides itself on simple, convenient and tasty recipes that embraces the Mediterranean way of life – that a fulfilling, happy life is one that is shared with family, friends, and eating wholesome, fresh ingredients.

Cooking with Cranberries

Are you ready for cranberries?  Not only are they healthy, but they're delicious too!  Try my Cranberry Sangria, Cranberry Salad, Cranberry Chutney or my Cran-Apple Cobbler Cocktail! Also, Check out:

Upcoming Events

10/17: Union Market, home to the highly acclaimed food market, brings back its wildly popular Drive-In series this Fall. The throwback, classic American treat will take place in the market’s parking lot, projected on the three-story front wall. The family-friendly series is just $10 per car (purchased here) or free for walk-ups in the picnic area. Free seating arrangements are first come, first serve. Patrons can bundle up in the comfort of their vehicle and adjust movie sounds through the car radio, with the tune-in number released at the start of the festivities.

Esperanza Resort in Cabo, Mexico

Photo by Emily Clack

Menu Planning: Seasonal Fall Supper

Happy Fall! We celebrated the season with a menu worth sharing. A special thank you for our partners: American Lamb Board, Logan's Sausage, California Figs, Crave Brothers Cheese, Fermin Iberico Pork, Sweet Tango Apples and Ommegang and Boulevard Breweries. It also happened to be my birthday... such a fun way to celebrate!

Looking for Halloween Treats?

Ghosts, goblins and monsters of all ages will have a hard time turning down Sprinkles Halloween BOO box.

Thinking of Drinking: Cran-Apple Cobbler

Photo by Emily Clack

I love fall flavors and cocktails.  I'm a huge fan of a signature cocktail every time I have guests over.  This recipe can be a substitute for dessert.  It makes one, but multiply it as necessary depending on the size of your party.

Happy 30th Anniversary Rosa Mexicano!

Kitty says that the guac is the best she's ever had!

Rosa Mexicano turns 30 and they have a menu that makes me proud to celebrate. Hurry in before October 12th to get a taste of the Desde 1984 menu. Try 3 courses for $30 or you can also order a la carte.  

Beautiful Town of Cape May, New Jersey

Opening: True Food Kitchen

By: Laurie Wallin

Capital Cooking Contributor

The Mosaic District has a new restaurant: True Food Kitchen. True Food Kitchen is a rapidly expanding brand – this is their 10^th location – that serves globally inspired cuisine and regional, seasonal foods in an upscale, green environment. True Food Kitchen’s menu is based on the principles of Dr. Andrew Weil’s anti-inflammatory diet and their menu includes starters, salads, sandwiches, entrees, cocktails, non-alcoholic beverages, desserts.

Welcome the Newest Member of Capital Cooking!

Photo by Kristen Finn

My world changed forever on 9.12.14.  The sweetest baby was born and my heart has continued to melt each day with her smiles.  She's already a great eater!  She recently attended her first food event and has been joining me on dining reviews.

Jaleo Celebrates 10 Years in Crystal City

By Claire Goldman

Jose Andres' Jaleo Crystal City tapas restaurant rang in its 10th anniversary in style.  The Arlington location of the DC staple restaurant was transformed into a Spanish market with different regions from Barcelona to Valencia all represented at stations throughout.

DC VegFest 2014

By Lauren Rosalanko

DC VegFest's Preview was hosted by Busboys and Poets' downtown location at 1025 5th Street NW. The preview featured just a few of the fantastic vendors that will be attending the DC VegFest on Saturday September 20th at Yards Park (on the corner of N St and 1st St SE, DC). I got a small taste of the vendors and Busboys and Poets' new vegan menu options at this event, which was more than enough to get me to attend the VegFest next weekend!

Thinking of Drinking: Pumpkin Pie-tini

You might have tried my Pumpkin Pie Martini from the Capital Cooking Cookbook, but my Pumpkin Pie-tini is even more fun!  This is perfect for a signature Halloween drink or for any Fall Feast. 

Upcoming Events

Thursday, Oct 2:  Phillips After 5 -

Phillips After 5 combines a lively mix of people, jazz, gallery talks, superb modern art, and a cash bar for a memorable evening. For the October event, the collection is featuring:

COCHON 555’S HERITAGE BBQ JOINS TASTE OF D.C.

Heritage BBQ presented by Goose Island Beer Co. is bringing its flavor-packed, five city global BBQ tour to Washington, D.C.’s Taste of D.C. on Sunday, October 12th. The hyper-local BBQ tour started by Brady Lowe, Founder of Cochon 555, invites five notable chefs to create globally-influenced menus featuring whole heritage breed pigs in a friendly competition to promote the family farms raising these great animals responsibly. The event is an all-inclusive culinary feast featuring unlimited access to food, bourbon, brews, wines and ice cream before announcing the winner. Heritage BBQ is an edible education on the finest social tradition in human history, and is a ground-breaking event creating a new hyper-local, globally-themed conversation about our BBQ culture.