Thinking of Drinking: Brandy Smash

I didn't realize I was such a fan of brandy until I took America Eats Tavern's monthly cocktail class.  Lead bartender, Owen Thomson, gave us a taste of the Germain-Robin brandy and I loved the smooth elegance.  This Brandy Smash is light and refreshing and absolutely perfect for summer sipping.  Cheers!

Toast to America!

On Thursday, June 22nd we all raised a glass of Madeira wine! The President of the Regional Government of Madeira, Miguel Albuquerque, and the Portuguese Ambassador, Domingos Fezas Vital, hosted a "Toast to America" reception to celebrate the independence of the U.S. and to commemorate the historical ties between Portugal and the United States.

Honoring our Veterans with Robert Irvine

Military personnel, lobbyists, a handful of senators, staffers, and reporters all met on Capitol Hill in the Hart Senate Building on Tuesday afternoon to honor our veterans with celebrity Chef Robert Irvine, Hire Heroes USA, and Walmart. 

Uncorked: Wines for BBQ

Looking for wines to go with your BBQ?  Ravenswood Old Vine Zinfandel Mendocino County 2014 and Ravenswood Old Vine Zinfandel Napa Valley 2014 have notes of black cherry and spice, complementing barbecues. 

Thinking of Drinking: Singapore Sling

Summer is here and it is the perfect time to enjoy a Singapore Sling.  This was my first cocktail on my trip to Thailand.  I tried this drink at the Supatra River House in Bangkok and it was refreshing after a long day in the sun.  Try one at home!

Happy Birthday, Corey!

I hope it is one of the best.  Your family loves you more than anything.  Cheers to another year!

National Geographic's Celebration of Exploration

On June 17^th explorers from all over the world came together in downtown D.C. on the yellow carpet! National Geographic’s first annual four-day Explorers Festival celebrated innovative scientists, conservationists, chefs, storytellers, and many other explorers!

Opening: True Food Kitchen

 True Food Kitchen is now open in Bethesda, Maryland at the Solaire Building.

Happy Father's Day!

Thinking of Drinking: Piña Colada

Give me 2 Piña Coladas!  Break out your Tiki glasses and make yourself a Piña Colada.  This recipe is shared by Bar Director Adam Bernbach of Doi Moi.  

Museum Hack: National Gallery of Art

Recently I decided I needed to check out more of the museums in my city, but I didn't want to feel like another dead-eyed tourist. I really wanted to go on a museum tour, but I was worried it was going to be boring and generic. When I heard about Museum Hack, my ears perked up. 

4th of July Recipes

One of the cool things about the Capital Cooking Cookbook is the Menu Planning section in the back.  I provide you with 10 menu ideas to create the perfect meals.  For the 4th of July, try the BBQ options.

Uncorked: Cooper & Thief Red Blend

Get ready for Father's Day with this unique wine.

Dining Out: Silver

On Friday, June 9th we were invited to Silver in Bethesda to meet Co-founder and Executive Chef Ype Von Hengst and to try out their new menu. Silver is an upscale diner that was founded by Ype and his partner Bob Glaimo over 25 years ago, known originally as the Silver Diner. 

Thinking of Drinking: Blackberry Lemonade Cooler

Enjoy some refreshing cocktails as the season begins.  You can find this one and more in the Capital Cooking Cookbook.

Sip, Sense and SAVOR

Do you have your tickets yet?  This is one of my favorite events of the year.  Taste the most amazing beers, meet the makers and try some fabulous pairings.  There are still tickets available.