Restaurants Archives - Travel & Experiences at Boutique Hotels and Restaurants Around the World

Northern Virginia Lansdowne Spa

…What’s to know about the Northern Virginia Lansdowne Spa (The Insider Scoop)?

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Fairfax is love and Virginia is for lovers ❤️

In the heart of Loudoun County, there is a Northern Virginia Lansdowne spa with roots along the Potomac River. There aren’t many resort spas in the DC metro area where Fairfax is in the middle… and you can count them on one hand, but none are the size of Lansdowne that’s also a place to play golf. I’ll tell you more about the spa scene below…

And if you’re visiting or moving to the Northern Virginia area or considering to do so, you probably want to get this insider scoop to get a lay of the area.

Lansdowne Resort (and golf course) is close to Dulles Airport. And this was where the next tech boom was supposed to happen (they called Netplex, and if you were there in the 90s when Lansdowne was built, you would have breathed that air). That’s where AOL headquarters was and making all the news headlines.

So surprisingly, for such a cultural, affluent, and tech hub-populated area just minutes from the most powerful city in America, there aren’t many big spas around.

Why?

…Many locals have gyms they go to that have pools, steam, and sauna access. Some and many living in the Tyson’s Corner/McLean/Great Falls area especially have personal home spas.

Close by, there are many small boutique spa service stores such as Elizabeth Arden in Reston’s Town Center (that btw, was also a new development in the 90s when the toll road was being built). The Red Door is also in Fairfax, and then you can find smaller spas like Circe or Sugar House Day Spa in Old Town Alexandria or Lorien Spa and hotel I recommend and has a restaurant good for special occasions… but requires taking a drive southeast towards the other side of the Virginia Potomac River.

Northern Virginia Lansdowne spa alternative — Brabo in the Lorien Hotel

But with these few and far between options for a large metro area, there’s a gaping hole for resort-type spas for wellness nearby within a 10-minute drive considering the stressful traffic during rush hour and go-go-go surroundings. You need a massage just to handle the traffic 🫣

If you want to go out further west from Lansdowne, you can visit the luxury Salamander Resort or go more mainstream with a Spa World spa day that seems to be popular with some locals.

In my day spa experience at the Northern Virginia Lansdowne spa, I spent a free day there to recuperate from a busy work season. I’d never tried the spa before and wanted to see if it lived up to its reputation since 1991 when I was far from checking out spas or spa services even though they were all around me. By the late 90s, I was working for Aramark‘s sister property to the Xerox Corporation campus (near Lansdowne) that had about 130,000 sq ft. of conference space and definitely could’ve used a massage. 💆🏻‍♀️

And when I was lucky to be at that spa place, being local I didn’t need a stay, but this resort has rooms and suites you can book and 4 restaurants ranging from country club tavern to golf and poolside eating options… a lot like room service.

So on my weekday visit, I decided to try a facial at the Northern Virginia Lansdowne Spa Minerale. I found the resting room loud (not zen). It was more like sitting at a doctor’s office in a comfy robe and slippers.

But my spa service was good and I bought some one-of-a-spa-kind facial products that didn’t have expiration dates and small bottles that lasted for years. So that was worth the trip alone because spas usually have the better products they’ve researched and tested, and back up their belief by using on their guests.

And afterward, when I got into the spa whirlpool, I felt like a million bucks. I didn’t mind that there were others around because they weren’t chatting.

And if you’re in Northern Virginia and need a nice, economical place to stay, I recommend this newer, boutique hotel style…

You may have discovered this modern color-blocking, exposed ductwork ceiling look in the Aloft brand hotel. The Aloft in Ashburn or Dulles Airport area is close to Leesburg Premium Outlet mall. It’s convenient and they’re sustainable as they do in-room recycling. There’s a WXYZ Bar and a Re:fuel gourmet self-service convenience bar in the lobby in case you need a quick snack. If you like hanging out in airports, you could like this hotel concept.

And if you wanna use or collect your Hilton points, then the Washington Dulles Hilton nearby could be your temp stay hotel place.

My humble hotel work beginnings were at that location.

No Reservations Best Paris Eats

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When you’re in a major city like Paris, bistros and cafes are great for no reservations best Paris eats… that are usually just steps away. PARIS is a walking city full of options, but may not be for all tastes…

You can find these Paris foods prepared and served everywhere: ham, cheese, bread, crepes, croissants, and light salads (plenty o’ photos below so you get a sense)…

If these foods sound good to you, for some/most meals you don’t need to know which cafes or restaurants you’ll drop in… but no matter what your vacation agenda is, I would recommend planning a few named bistro and cafe stops you don’t wanna miss (that btw, still need no reservations!)… and I share some below that didn’t disappoint in food experiences 🍽️

You want to be able to make some food memories in your Paris travels 💕 And remember, most most servers do speak English. And when you have something to say, just first be polite and say, Bonjour! 🇫🇷

…And cafes open early and close later, usually past dinner hours, so relax and enjoy your time there.

In certain months, sunset is past 10 pm (thank you City of Light phenomenon for naturally staying lit up late ✨ So if you’re traveling from U.S. you don’t lose much daylight time even on Day 1 😃 If it’s your first time there, it’s also a city of lights that is well-lit with street lighting and Eiffel Tower lights.

For the food stops you plan in advance but don’t have to be there at any specific time, keep your list simple, short, and sweet. For the other impromptu meals, when you’re hungry, use your senses to look around and read menus.

That makes exploring Paris more fun and enjoyable as you work up to your next snack. And whether you’re alone enjoying the walking city or with others, you can have a great time.

Let’s start with a simple breakfast snack you can get anywhere, like a croissant… this was around the corner from The Five Hotel in Latin Quarter.

This chocolate croissant with cappuccino is good to tie anyone over for a few hours…

Croque Monsieur – this ham and cheese toast (or you can order a Croque Madame with a poached or fried egg) is classic fare. This was across the street from where I was (just sayin’ it’s easy to score a meal like this without any hassle). There are always places to eat near the metro lines all over the city.

A light lemon crepe with my cafe au lait is my choice at this Ile de la Cite cafe (btw, you have to visit and do window shopping at the petite boutiques 🪟 )… that was on a different day than the croissant.

And you may wanna try more than one crepe. Banana and Nutella seem to be a fave, but that’s a little to0 heavy for my liking. I feel like I’ve seen that on a food truck in the States. 💭

Ok… now we get into the fun, like these planned no reservations Paris best eats that add to your trip…

Foie Gras – I’m not one to eat this often (or more than once a millennia),but I thought I’d give it a go as it is a French delicacy like caviar. When in Paris, do as the Parisians do 💋… But that’s completely up to you!.. I’ve had reindeer and whale in Scandinavia, so I’m willing to try anything once.

This was at Au Petit Sud-Ouest, a restaurant with a green awning that I found after my walking visit to the famous Rue Cler street where many food shops and markets are. It’s closer to the Eiffel Tower area and while it does attract visitors, no reservations are needed because it’s not on the busiest street.

you can even try foie gras for great no reservations best Paris eats

Osso Bucco – This is a fall-off-the bone veal shank Italian dish, but when you go to a French restaurant and you see this on the menu… it can be very good… and this one was in Les Halles (near Marais). Sometimes you go off script using your foodie instincts and that becomes a memorable meal. Especially if you’re tired of ham, cheese, and bread.

Both Les Deux Magots or Cafe de Flore in St. Germain du Pres are famous. The famous surrealist artists, and forward-thinking leaders like Picasso, Descartes, Ernest Hemingway, and Jean-Paul Sartre in the early 19th century used to frequent these historical establishments. Since Les Deux Magots is a brasserie, you need a reservation… but not for Cafe de Flore where you watch people go by.

Cafe de Flore is famous and is great for no reservations best Paris eats

And keep in mind, you can get a sandwich anywhere as a quick no reservations best Paris eats option. You’ll run into more Paul Bakery shops (big also in the DMV area) and macarons, than convenient stores. Bon appetit! 💕

18 Old Town Alexandria Restaurant Week Picks

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Alexandria Restaurant Week King St. corner — View from Mia’s on the popular King Street corner (formerly Carluccio’s)

Old Town Alexandria Restaurant Week is a comin’! If you like trying restaurants, fixed price ($35, $45, and $55 to be exact), and easy 2-3 choices, then this is the way to go! And maybe you’re in town and wanna do something foodie exciting… and if you are, these are my picks that you might love! Each left an impression on me and could leave one on you too 😋:

Old Town Alexandria Restaurant Week Restaurants

A La Lucia is on the north side of Alexandria that’s starting to build out closer toward Potomac yards. It’s a small tasty painted place that gets bigger as you enter with a cute restroom (…just sayin’, I notice those details 😉).

Bastille Brasserie and Bar – they started as a small neighborhood restaurant and have turned into a destination restaurant with a name. That’s what good eats and a quaint atmosphere can do. I call this French Alexandria Restaurant Week because the dish titles are

Blackwall Hitch – this is one of the newer restaurants on the waterfront. There’s patio seating options and inside seating great for groups. And plenty of event opportunities. Try it out during Alexandria Restaurant Week and see for ya self. 🎉

Brabo is in the high-end Lorien Hotel both in luxury and location closer to the Masonic Temple. In case you’re not familiar that’s the opposite end from the waterfront where fireworks happen, literally! 🎆

Chart House – closest to the water’s edge, this is a landmark in always because it has been in Old Town forever. But who’s counting?

Cheesetique – in Shirlington Village and Delray, this is a cute place where you’ll find a cute menu that’s good for you and me and a petite mouse. If you need to find a wine gift, you could kill two birds with one stone in one visit!

Clyde’s at Mark Center – with a boating theme, you can visit this restaurant that has a koi pond, and outdoor and indoor seating. I remember it’s open in 1998 (…was a good year in many ways).

Del Ray Cafe – this is a good brunch place (one of my faves) where you can choose from croissants to omelets and steak.

Evening Star – another dynamic Del Ray restaurant and sometimes entertainment establishment, you should visit this great corner spot.

Gadsby’s Tavern – historically this is as old as George Washington and the food is surprisingly revolutionary. Give it a try with a variety of dishes from seafood to chicken and beef, and take in the Historic Alexandria vibes.

Hen Quarter – this is a Southern comfort delight. There’s plenty of seating upstairs and downstairs in this unique restaurant that’s good for gatherings.

Hummingbird – inside the Indigo Hotel that’s becoming a boutique brand-name hotel. This one is new to 2018 and is good if you want to be near the water and in a quieter eating environment where you hear your guests and not the guests around you voicing their fun time!

Mason Social – in the Parker-Gray neighborhood this is a bustling restaurant that has a following. If you’re looking for a friend’s place with delicious appetizers to share, this is a good place to go to.

Rockland’s Barbecue – this is closer to Carlyle area/Duke Street (north end of King Street) barbecue joint that’s like driving up to a garage

The Warehouse – this was surprisingly good upstairs and is fine-dining in food and casual in spirit.

The Wharf – Probably the seafood restaurant with the biggest reputation. Score an outside table and watch the people go by (and they’ll watch you eat your scrumptious meal!).

Union Street Public House – this is a historic landmark near the Christmas Shoppe if you know where that is, on Union Street, and definitely one you want to visit.

Vermillion – A foodie gem that’s known in the area and Old Town Alexandria Restaurant Week could be the perfect reason to eat out and in!

New York Restaurant Week 2019 and Hot Hotel Pick

(New York Restaurant Week in the summertime)

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skyline break from new york restaurant week dining out — NYC Skyline

New York Restaurant Week runs until August 16, 2019. A good reason to visit The Big Apple this time of year. You can try a James Beard Award Winner, Union Square Café owned by famous pioneer restaurateur Danny Meyer where you can have a chilled melon soup and brook trout “a la plancha” – a 2 course lunch for $31+. Having had dinner there, they simply take customer service to another level by knowing about their guests…and there’s no tipping allowed (read Danny Meyer’s book “Setting the Table”).

And another one to add to the list is the legendary Tavern on the Green in Central Park. You can have lunch there for $26++ (2-courses) and select an appetizer like refreshing watermelon and feta salad, with plated salmon or chicken kabobs. Dinner for restaurants participating is $42++ (3 courses). It’s one of those places you want to mention to others you went to.

Ian Schrager has a boutique-y hotel with sleek lines and cool vibe hotel lighting you can visit and stay at for a very reasonable rate, especially considering central NYC — in the heart of the City near Washington Square, SOHO, West Village, and whatever your NYC visit is about.

ICYMI, Schrager is the OG credited for putting boutique hotels as a new category on the map. And if that doesn’t strike a chord, he was the original co-founder and owner of “Studio 54” 🪩

The Hudson New York Central Park is a great hotel to stay at for many reasons. It’s a posh and busy hotel (a real see-and-be-seen type hotel), decorated and designed by world-renowned Philippe Starck. I love his clear stackable acrylic chairs that make the space seem light and airy. The weightless chairs come in fun colors are inspired by the hotel decor (and were in my stay in this Paris posh hotel I stayed at).

The lobby is very cheery with some brick walls and neon color lights and chandeliers, and a dramatic escalator leading to the lobby. The hotel is a great value in the location that it is, next to Central Park. It’s so close to Central Park which is one of my favorite parks… so peaceful and beautiful with the horse-drawn carriages lined up. I’ve taken one of those and it’s romantic. You can even get a New York-style pretzel right there in Central Park to top off your visit.

The only downside is that the standard room is 150 square feet shoebox size (and really meant for just one person or someone you know intimately, like a spouse or a good friend). Don’t let that turn you off, because it’s still worth every penny.

You save money and if you’re in NYC on a mission like trying the trendiest restaurants during NYC restaurant week, shopping, or visiting touristy sites, then you spend very little time in your room other than to sleep and shower. But yes, in a room this size you’ll probably bump into each other on the way to the closet or the bathroom and shelf space, which is all this room has.

My sister and I made a great stay of it because we were able to “bond” sitting on the bed and talking about our lives. But there are I think 8 or 9 sizes and styles of room, including a suite option that’s 450 square feet. Of the two times I’ve stayed there, it has been the best value. August always has good deals for under $200, which is amazing for the great location.

And they make wonderful drinks that you can sit in many areas to enjoy including the Lobby Bar and there’s a lobby library lounge that you can sit at also if you want to work on your laptop or chat on the phone without many others around. They are run by a group that is known for very modern chic hotels. I stayed at one in South Beach, Miami, Florida called the Mondrian.

In Miami, this is cutting edge with avant-garde room artwork with a Japanese cartoon girl’s face on one of the transparent walls separating the living area from the bedroom. And the pool was amazing along the Biscayne Bay in South Beach. Just trying to paint a picture of their brand and what it’s like to stay at another property. You feel very trendy on the trendy side of town but that’s less touristy than some of the Beach Week hotels where word gets around (like the famous 24-hour News Cafe restaurant).

Back in NY vibes, if you want to check out less touristy neighborhoods with a food scene, try Hell’s Kitchen district, but don’t let the name scare you. Or maybe you are curious because of the Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen food show.

There you are close to the best shopping in the city. And just a short subway or cab ride from the busiest Apple store and largest FAO Schwartz I’ve ever been to. My sister and I like to make a girl’s weekend getaway out of it. You are close to Time Square where all the crowds are. And you can people watch at the now very popular Bryant Park.

We go in the August summer usually when the US Open tennis match is advertised everywhere. It’s often New York Restaurant Week in the Big Apple. We’ve tried a few “foodie” New York restaurateur restaurants owned by David Burke (BTW, he has a restaurant that has a great rooftop seating view of One World Trade Center) and Joe Bastianich (aka related to Lidia Bastianich and Eataly) restaurants in great neighborhoods like Greenwich Village.

NC Mountain State Fair near Asheville

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If you want to know where Noah’s Ark is, then the NC State Mountain Fair will answer that… as there are over 4,000 animals. That’s 100 times more than carnival rides they have (40 in case you wanted quick math).

And unlike some carnivals that have mystery rides (that they don’t announce until you’re there), these are no sketchy plans, as they rides are all listed here.

And the NC State Mountain Fair is a close drive to artsy Asheville, NC, where there are plenty of artisan displays to check out if arts and crafts and quilts are your thing. And the Asheville Early Girl Eatery is a good place to enjoy breakfast next to the mountains, and also now in Charlotte a couple hours away.

And enjoy Southern Comfort food at Tupelo Honey Cafe while you stroll the art galleries.

…Asheville, NC (…you may have heard) is full of world-class fun from picturesque Lake Lure (where Dirty Dancing movie shots were taken).

And Chimney Rock’s Hickory Nut Falls was a waterfall debut in The Last of the Mohicans. And of course is home to the Biltmore Castle where there was a recent Leonardi da Vinci exhibit. The castle is good also to see at Christmas time if you like decorated Christmas trees. Plus, there’s a Biltmore winery on ground that remind me of the Virginia wineries if that’s your thing!

Idea 💭 : you can rent a pontoon to enjoy the lake when the weather is nice. And staying at a downtown boutique hotel is a good idea. If you want a unique mountain rock feel in a resort atmosphere with a tennis court, then you can check this one out.

And that’ll put you in the natural mood to visit the Chimney Rock’s Hickory Nut Falls. The waterfall made a debut in The Last of the Mohicans if you’re a movie buff (where Acor Daniel Day-Lewis cried out, “I will come find you” to Madeleine Stowe’s character). And it was voted one of the best waterfalls in America helping to make America beautiful.

2023 Philly Restaurant Week Best

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Depending on what cuisine you like, at 2023 Philly Restaurant Week there’s something for you. After Labor Day’s big Made in America Music Festival curated by Jay-Z, or Parx horse races, you can get your fill of good Philly eats.

Center City District 2023 Philly Restaurant Week has lobster pot pie, mac-n-cheese, arancini, and peach desserts on the menu, so there’s something for every taste! 😋 And you like seafood (see-food 👀), you’ll like my best picks…

Philly restaurant week has lobster dishes like this lobster macaroni

In 2023, it’s $45/3-course dinner and $20/2-course lunch. Forget cheesesteak hoagies for this one because this is the finest aged cuisine brought to one of the oldest cities in America:

Some fave highlights are seafood and Italian cuisine.

The 40-year old Oyster House (BEST seafood) is offering luxe Lobster Roll (chilled New England Style with fries), four oysters. and chocolate panna cotta as a sample $45 menu… that’s a lotta lob and oy-STAHS that are hard to resist! 🦞

And if you’re allergic, then maybe the 30-year old Alice Pizza restaurant inspired by authentic ❤️ Rome foods, can be your new love. Oozing Burrata cheese, Jumbo shrimp (gotta love the oxymoron! 🍤), Amatriciana famous Roman pasta, and sfogliatelle pastries with vanilla gelato or traditional tiramisu. Seafood and cheese are okay in Philly!

And if you want to get really authentic, you may want to try…

Gran Caffe L’Aquila with cinghiale meatballs, monkfish puttanesca-style, and gelato made by the Italian & World (Gelato) Press Champion, Stefano Biasini, that’s like winning the World Cup of Gelato. 🍨

And if Italian isn’t your food vibe, you’ll also find German, Middle Eastern, Thai, and so much more.

Philly is an easy drive on the east coast.

If you need a stay recommend, this is a boutique hotel with so much inspiring charm from the cute building to the mood room interior mod-design headboards adorned with black and white (trending) striped drapes…. NOT your boring blah-beige or solid-color window treatments. And if you look up in the ceiling, you’ll see different mod features you’d see in HGTV dream makeover homes. And for an eclectic feel of unusual art and mix-n-match patterns, this is a moderate-affordable stay worth checking in and checking out!

…And you may be interested in the NYC Restaurant Week or DC Restaurant Week just a few short hours away.

5 Best DC Convention Hotels to Checkout (and Check-In)

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The Watergate Hotel is walking distance to the Georgetown Waterfront

The best Washington DC convention hotels and neighborhood areas are just minutes from free museums, the downtown mall, and some of the best restaurants in the nation. I grew up in the area and worked in local DC area hotels. As an insider, I have watched the DC area revitalize. And some areas in the past that weren’t all that safe are now walkable. 🎉

The northwest area where the White House is, is one of the nicest (the Capitol is on the east side as many get confused). Both the east and northeast areas and growing. And Adams Morgan/U Street areas and surrounding are still hoppin’ busy.

Some hotels have changed names and some are built in the middle of the city where there seemed to be no additional space available to erect another hotel building (like the newest Marriott mega hotel – more below).

Depending on where you want to spend your time in DC most, here are some of my favorites based on long-standing reputation, trying their restaurants, and just being in the area (I don’t usually have to stay in a hotel but I have because I love hotels).

These are the Best 5 Washington DC hotel areas (I wouldn’t mind staying in or visiting again as a local guest getaway 😊):

Georgetown and Virginia border (4 miles from Ronald Reagan National Airport). One of the coolest hotels after it got its facelift before 2019, is the Watergate Hotel near the Kennedy Center and just minutes walking into Georgetown (mega outdoor shopping streets) that runs along Rock Creek Parkway (nice drive). The name may sound familiar as that’s where the Watergate Nixon scandal occurred in the early 70s. They’ve remodeled the hotel since. The hotel now has a really neat vibe inside that you’ll feel right away.

…And I’m told this renovation comes with a Mid-Century vibe in hotel personnel uniforms, but I was too busy admiring the lobby architecture, restroom design (check it out!), and food in my face in the restaurant to notice! 😅 Oh, and if you take an Uber or cab to the airport, be sure they drive across Arlington Memorial Bridge so you can catch a glimpse of the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery that you definitely don’t wanna miss!

White House and 14^th Street. In the heart of DC, you can stay at the beautiful established Willard Hotel near 14^th Street (that has a bridge named after it). The Willard serves a nice afternoon tea comparable to the Ritz Carlton that is known for its tea and scones. The W is one of the best Washington DC convention hotels with views of the Washington DC “mall” on the rooftop bar terrace (POV Lounge). If you take a Segway tour you’ll be able to see the best view of the Capitol from Pennsylvania Ave. even during rush hour!

Convention Center. One of the newest hotels built after 2010 is the Marriott Marquis. It has an open lobby and a covered connector to enter the Convention Center as one of the most convenient, best Washington DC convention hotels. I stayed there for a convention I was actually working at. It’s just minutes from DC City Center, a newly revitalized area that has luxury, high-end shopping, and great restaurants… and just minutes from more great restaurants in DC Gallery Place or Chinatown. During Cherry Blossom season, this is where you want to be.

These are happening spots now, but both were areas you did not want to walk around in late at night prior to the 90s.

Dupont Circle area. The Omni Shoreham in Adams Morgan/Woodley Park area is also a grand hotel closer to the Smithsonian National Zoo. The area is great if you want to be a little bit further from all the hustle and bustle of the downtown mall area. I planned parties for a few years at one of the popular restaurants across the street, so I know the scene. 🎉

It’s in the downtown heart of many events, and I remember enjoying working at Zoofari (where all the foodie restaurants come together and display a tasting or tapas), Zoolights (great for kids!), and all the fun Embassy events. You get your cultural fill! 🌎

Southwest Watefront (Wharf). And if you want a really nice lounge area, visit the Mandarin Oriental Hotel. It’s close to the L’Enfant Plaza metro stop and the popular re-vitalized Southwest Waterfront (The Wharf) area. It’s funny because most of these areas have changed so much… if only you were there! 💭

The Wharf used to be where you bought crabs from the boats on the water to take home, but people didn’t go there as a destination place or to dine at restaurants.. you can now take the water taxi (the bright yellow color of the original taxi cabs) run by The Potomac River Boat Company. They run regularly by the Wharf, Georgetown, Old Town Alexandria, and National Harbor.

You can even then take the boat from Alexandria to a Nationals baseball game at Navy Yards. And you can check out one of the many restaurants and maybe even a DC restaurant week.

baseball is a great downtime pastime away from washington dc convention hotels and conventions

2019 DC Restaurant Week: 15 Favorite Insider Picks

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2019 DC Restaurant Week sushi — DC Restaurant Week

Summer 2019 DC Restaurant Week is happening now in August! Some of my favorite restaurants were discovered through Restaurant Week. Around Washington DC , as a well known mega “foodie” city, I’ve eaten (and worked) in hundreds of amazing restaurants . It’s always a great experience when you’re an Insider to be able to make recommendations.

Wharf 2019 DC Restaurant Week — Officina’s Open Kitchen (Waterfront District)

15 Favority 2019 DC Restaurant Week Insider Picks:

Washington DC:

-1789 Restaurant– American (Georgetown), 1226 36th St NW, Washington, DC 20007

-Acqua Al 2 – Italian (Capitol Hill), 212 7th St SE, Washington, DC 20003

-America Eats Tavern (Chef Jose Andres)– American (Georgetown), 3139 M St NW, Washington, DC 20007

-Birch and Barley – American (14^th Street), 1337 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20005

-BlackSalt – Seafood (Palisades/near Georgtown), 4883 MacArthur Blvd NW, Washington, DC 20007

-DBGB – Modern French (City Center – in between 14^th Street and Gallery Place), 931 H St NW, Washington, DC 20001

-Officina – Italian (Waterfront District), 1120 Maine Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024

-The Hamilton – Sushi and American, Happy Hour and Downstairs Ticketed Live Music Venue (14^th Street/near White House), 600 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20005

Alexandria and Vicinity (south of DC):

-Bastille – French American and Bar Mixologist (Old Town North neighborhood), 606 N Fayette St, Alexandria, VA 22314

-Brabo – American (Old Town in Lorien Hotel), 1600 King St, Alexandria, VA 22314

-Rosa Mexicano – Mexican (National Harbor, MD), 153 Waterfront St, Oxon Hill, MD 20745

-A La Lucia – Italian (North Old Town neighborhood), 315 Madison St, Alexandria, VA 22314

-Blackwall Hitch, 5 Cameron Street, Alexandria (waterfront views and weekend live music!)

Tysons Corner and Vicinity (heart of Northern Virginia):

-Eddie V’s – Seafood/Steakhouse and Live Music & Happy Hour (Tysons Corner Mall on the outdoor Plaza), 7900 Tysons One Pl, McLean, VA 22102

-2941 – French American (Fairview Park – business park), 2941 Fairview Park Dr, Falls Church, VA 22042

-Earls Kitchen + Bar, 7901 Tysons One Plaza

Reston (suburb west of DC):

-Passion Fish – Seafood/Sushi (Reston Town Center), 11960 Democracy Dr, Reston, VA 20190

Coming to Washington DC, and need a good recommendation as to where to stay in DC?

These are some one-of-a-kind memorable ones:

This hotel got a massive facelift and has killer sunset water views by the Kennedy Center. This is a hop to Georgetown and the famous “M Street” where you may remember the old warm Brat Pack movie, “St. Elmo’s Fire” that had a pub scene and now a major shopping scene.

Georgetown: Watergate Hotel, 2650 Virginia Ave NW, Washington, DC 20037

This is around the corner from The White House on 14th Street: Willard International Hotel, 1401 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004

Old Town Alexandria is a historic town that has cobblestone charm. A romantic hotel is the Lorien Hotel, 1600 King St, Alexandria, VA 22314

Blackwall & Hitch Alexandria, VA sign

30 Best 2023 DC Metro Restaurants For Groups and Brunch

DC Metro brunch groups and restaurants — Blue Duck Tavern – a Michelin star hotel restaurant that was one of over 30 brunch places I tried with DC Metro groups.

Since 2020, many DC Metro brunch restaurants said their goodbyes. But some have weathered the storms and withstood the test of time. Which ones?

All 30 of the ones below that I enjoyed.

All were memorable (company more than food), but one Michelin-star restaurant in the Park Hyatt in Georgetown stood out.

My DC Metro brunch group made brunch a weekend event for almost a decade and this one was a highlight (although most of the food served and service was great!).

Growing up in the area, Georgetown was an area full of bars, and you maybe remember… “The Brat Pack” movies. A scene from St. Elmo’s Fire was from a restaurant group that I worked for in the way-back machine, mentioned further below.

Let me back up a little and fill in some details…

From 2010 to 2020, I was booking groups in my foodie restaurants where I managed parties and events (one location mentioned below).

And, on my free weekends and with my DC metro brunch group of friends, we were trying out brunch-friendly neighborhood restaurants. These are some of our favorite tasting place finds I’m sharing with you… that are still around!

(Even the ones that weren’t historical are now captured in history.)

1. Blue Duck Tavern (L’Enfant) – 1201 24th St NW, Washington DC, 20037

2. Le Diplomate – 1601 14th St NW, Washington DC, 20009

3. DBGB (City Center) – retired but you can still dig into the to-die-for Baked Alaska in the Big Apple.

4. Bastille (Parker Gray) – 606 N Fayette St, Alexandria, VA 22314

5. Founding Farmers & Distillers DC – 600 Mass Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001

For a buffet, I was impressed with the spread. I’m not a buffet fan as I don’t think they’re all that hygienic (pre-pandemic included), but this one was one I would recommend. They even had classy bruleed grapefruit halves. The other Founding Farmers have a mix of buffet or plated options.

6. Medium Rare – Capitol Hill/Barracks Row location closed, but Arlington is open – 3601 N. Fairfax Drive, Arlington, VA 22201

Unforgettable steak frites (…need I say more!)

7. Virtue Feed and Grain – Alexandria on the Potomac River – 106 S Union St, Alexandria, VA 22314

The view of the Potomac River is worth the visit! If you book an event, upstairs is the way to go!

8. Oyamel -401 Seventh St NW, Washington, DC 20004

More mole? This is a Tex-Mex institution. And it’s one of a few Chef Andres’ famous restaurants in the exciting Chinatown/Gallery Place block. It’s just around the corner from the Theater District (think DC’s version of Time Square).

8. China Chilcano – 418 7th St NW, Washington DC, DC 20004

This Jose Andres’ newest restaurant addition, that’s just as the exotic name implies… it’s a mix of Chinese, Japanese, and Peruvian cuisines. It’s a great place to stop in before a concert across the street at the Capitol One Arena. You can choose from ceviches, dim sum, and noodles. Yes, please!

9. Tabard Inn – 1739 N Street, Washington, DC 20036 (Dupont Circle)

This is the oldest running hotel. You’ll feel it when you realize you’re sitting on modern antique furniture and floors. Don’t let that intimidate you as they serve traditional DC metro brunch foods like their version of chicken and waffles and Eggs Benedict.

10. Birch & Barley – 1337 14th St NW, 2nd Floor, Washington DC, DC 20005 (Logan Circle)

11. Columbia Firehouse – 109 S Saint Asaph St, Alexandria, VA 22314

12. Hen Quarter (Old Town) – 801 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314

13. Del Ray Cafe – 205 E Howell Ave, Alexandria, VA 22301 (Del Ray in between Alexandria and Arlington)

14. Vermillion – 1120 King Street, Alexandria, VA

15. Blackwell Hitch – 5 Cameron St, Alexandria, VA 22314

Your choice of sitting outside or inside makes this a great DC metro brunch place.

16. Rosa Mexicano – National Harbor location is the busiest- 153 Waterfront St, National Harbor, MD 20745 – fresh guacamole made tableside

17. Fiola – 601 Pennsylvania Ave. DC 20004

Best restaurant week experience and Italian food 🇮🇹

18. Officina – 1120 Maine Ave SW, Washington DC, DC 20024-2417

When I was a kid, this used to be where we bought live crabs. This under developed area is now the popular Wharf area with concerts, restaurants, and the outdoor seafood-fish market spruced up.

19. Sequoia – 3000 K Street, Washington DC 20007 (Georgetown Harbor waterfront)

20. Mia’s – 100 King St, Alexandria, VA 22314

Busy corner of south King Street (Old Town Alexandria) where Mia’s sits (formerly Carluccio’s)

21. Al Dente – Chef Roberto Donna used to run this restaurant. He was the one who put foodie restaurants on the map.

22. Chop Shop Taco – 1008 Madison St, Alexandria, VA 22314 – tex mex

23. Clyde’s Gallery Place/– 707 7th St NW – related to the bar from the St. Elmo’s Fire movie reference I made above, Clyde’s is a DC metro eating institution. Old Ebbitt Grill is one of their well-known restaurants in the country just a few steps from the White House. If you don’t know what to order, you can’t go wrong with the fresh crabcakes or Eggs Benedict.

24. Aqua al 2 – 212 Seventh St SE, Washington, DC 20003

25. Lebanese Taverna (Westover location) – 5900 Washington Blvd., Arlington – this one is neighborhood-friendly. The other locations you can find in big shopping areas like Tysons II Galleria, Adams Morgan, and Pentagon Row. So this quieter neighborhood location (you’ll probably never heard of unless you’ve lived in the area) is a great place to start a meal.

Of course I’m a ‘lil biased because I planned all the parties for these restaurants for a few years when I wasn’t brunching. I don’t mind the adventurous eating once in a while when I’ve tried everything else…

Westover Lebanese Taverna

26. Nat’l Press Club/Fourth Estate Restaurant – 529 14th St. NW, 13th Fl., Washington, DC 20045

This was a fun DC metro brunch place to find once you’re in the building. But after sat, we’re happy and see that they do serve good food!

27. Compass Rose – 1346 T Street, Washington, DC 20009 (U Street Corridor)

28. Commissary DC – 1443 P Street NW, Washington, DC 20005

29. Carlyle Grand Cafe – 4000 Campbell Avenue, Arlington, VA 22206 – this is a well-known DC metro brunch in Shiriington Village, a quaint shopping center. You’ll also find some boutique-y places like Cheesetique that has its own brunch menu with charcuterie and mac-n-cheese.

30. Brabo – 1600 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 – inside the Lorien Hotel and Spa in the north end of Old Town’s King Street

If you’re coming to town for leisure, brunch or a convention, the best time to come is fall when you can appreciate the fall leaves or spring when you catch the cherry blossom display.

Arby’s Deal: Roast Beef Classic Sandwich Picnic Party for $5

You can have your own Arby’s Deal Roast Beef Classic Sandwich Picnic Party Table for $5. Kick up your roast beef table and you have an elegant buffet in 10-minute prep time. No kidding! ⏲️

arby's deal table — Party table featuring Arby’s roast beef classic (5 for $5 deal)

Arby’s deal with the fixings prepared here: homemade rolls, feta cheese, capers, radishes, pickles, horseradish, and homemade au jus. You can always use Arby’s sauce or horsey sauce, but using your own sauces help to kick up the spice and flavor level if that’s what you want (giving a luxury catered party vibe 🎉… for the $5 price). That’s something to smile about!

And instead of North Carolina barbecue you can have roast beef with your own North Carolina-style vinegar barbecue sauce using white vinegar (or any vinegar you have on hand), Worcestershire sauce, cayenne or red pepper flakes, onion powder, salt and pepper. And who doesn’t love Dijon mustard!?

This Arby’s deal: 5 classic roast beef sandwich deal for $5 is good until 7/2! Just in time for July 4th 🇺🇸 and keep your eyes out for other weekly deals!

You can’t beat the roast beef classic sandwich that has been around as long as I have been around (and longer!)… and maybe you have been too.

And since we’re talking history…

The Arby’s chain started the same 1964 year as the Beatles landed in New York. It’s a true classic with the horsey horseradish sauce. And with the 5 sandwich deal, you can share with 4 other individuals… OR you could make a party smorgasbord like I did where you add your gourmet picnic cheeses like brie. And your fancy cornichons and capers. And voila! you’ve got a sharing platter good for a small party of 3 or more.

PLUS… you’ve got leftover buns for your next holiday 🧨 or other celebration. I mean, c’mon! It doesn’t get any better than this for fast food. And actually lemme give you the skinny on what happened (the fast food part).

Rewinding back my steps… I did the rigamaroll of downloading the Arby’s app in the morning and paying for the sandwiches which came to $4.79 for 5 sandwiches. Umm… isn’t that like 1964 rollback prices? Or what you pay for one sandwich in 2023 inflationary costs?

…When I pulled up to the drive-thru, they couldn’t find my order. Oops!

I saved the confirmation receipt sent to my email and took a photo… I didn’t want to take any chances having never ordered from them this way before. AND I double-checked the location before I left. Boy, that’s a classic #1 mistake: people making reservations at the wrong location. Not tragic but imagine if it’s for a restaurant reservation with others.

I’m a planner so that’s just not me. I wouldn’t want others to have to deal with my lack of planning on their dime. Time is money.

…So, they had me pull up out of the drive-thru and a few short minutes later, handed me a fat brown bag full of these sandwiches. They didn’t even check my confirmation. But of course, that’s because I had it on-hand just in case. And they even apologized for the delay… um, what delay? 😊 Just sayin’.

Then I smiled and drove on my merry way. I took those roast beef beauties home, and enjoyed one as a snack. I disassembled each one probably as carefully and systematically as they were assembled. We took a field trip in kindergarten to ooh and aahh over fast food operations at a local Mickey D’s (but that’s a story for another day! 😅).

I digress, but my inner child remembered.. and I stacked the buns on top cookie-cutter style onto one of the foil paper wrappings that could be reused, and put them in my freezer for a later day. Hey, they are good sesame buns (never eaten) and good for re-purposing on any meat or burger occasion. 🍔

And I took the thinly sliced roast beef and fluffed them up out of their round compactness.

arby's deal — Arby roast beef $5 party table

And here we have a delightful picnic you can take along outside or enjoy indoors on a hot summer day. 🧺

And if you don’t want to eat in, you can find other deals during Alexandra Restaurant Week, DC Restaurant Week, and NYC Restaurant Week.