100 Challenge

I got the idea from another blog to do a 100 list. I was inspired to try to do 100 new things last year. The list can contain small things, as well as amazing experiences. Here's my list from 2013. Will you join me for the 100 Challenge in 2014? Cheers!

Celebrating the Holidays at the Park Hyatt

By:  Jennifer Duff

Capital Cooking Contributor

This year we had the opportunity to celebrate the holidays at the elegant Park Hyatt hotel, home to the RAMMY's Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year, the Blue Duck Tavern.  As a gift to my parents, we got them the Christmas in the Park package which included a deluxe room and breakfast at Blue Duck Tavern.  Since it was also my mom's 60th birthday, we celebrated her big day with a wonderful dinner downstairs at BDT prepared by Chef Sebastien Archambault.   

Opening: Smashburger in Vienna, VA

 

By: Laurie Wallin

Capital Cooking Contributor

Smashburger continues to bring its ‘better burger’ concept to the DMV with its newest location, Vienna, VA. This location joins Wal-Mart and 24 Hour Fitness in the newly-developed Tysons West area, just steps away from the soon-to-be completed Spring Hill Metro station and located on Route 7 between the Capital Beltway and the Dulles Toll Road. Like other Smashburger locations, this outpost will feature its signature “Smashed” burgers and chicken sandwiches, salads, sides, and shakes. Given the number of burger joints in the DC area, you may ask yourself, “another one? What’s different?” What’s different is that Smashburger uses their signature “smashing” cooking process, which literally means smashing their 100% Certified Angus Beef burgers on a 400-degree flat grill; this unique searing process seals in the juices and results in a juicy, flavorful burger.

Resolution: What's Yours?

Happy New Year! The ball dropped and now it is time to set goals for our new year. For 2014, I'm going to work on cooking a vegetarian meal twice a week. It is time for more fresh fruits and vegetables. Being a food writer, I'm typically dining out 3-4 nights a week. The least I can do is try to cut back a bit when I'm at home. Eating less meat decreases the chances of heart disease and cancer later in life. What about you?