Sushi is just one of those things that I could eat everyday.  For those of you who know me well, it’s true—I have many different things that I could eat everyday.  But, today, we are talking about sushi.  Fresh, creative, delectable sushi.  Sure, there are numerous places in the area that one can find a decent piece of sushi.  Whether you prefer traditional damo style rolls, or creative twists with tempura bits, no matter; I have found a place that offers both in a stylish and exciting way!  Right off of Water Street in our beloved Georgetown, we find Mate.  The posh DC lounge that serves up a fun mix of Latin influenced sushi rolls.  

Some of you may know Mate for it’s pricey drinks, and pretentious standard.  However, you should welcome both with open arms at the best time of the day—the sacred 5-7pm happy Hour!  Offering half price sushi and select cocktails, this is one of the best happy hours I have been to in some time.  My favorite roll and one of the best happy hour deals is the Volcano Roll.  Crunchy shrimp tempura roll topped with a succulent spicy crab salad—yep, it’s even more delicious than it sounds!  Not into the creative rolls?  No worries, Mate also offers a wonderful array of fresh sashimi and traditional maki rolls, you just have to ask!

Anyone for $6 cocktails?  Go ahead and indulge in the Passion Fruit Martini or Mango Mojito.  I’m generally not a huge fan of the sweet drinks, but the bartenders here at Mate definitely know how to infuse the perfect balance of each fruit’s natural essence and sweetness.

So, as you try to scope out that great neighborhood bar, or swanky new hangout, take a chance on Mate Lounge in Georgetown.  Sure, they may check your attire and turn you away if not up to par, but once you’re in—it’s worth the extra trouble!

Mate Lounge

3101 K Street, NW

Washington, DC

202.333.9232

Not sure what to do with yourself with this hot and cold weather? Regardless of your weekend plans, Sundays are bound to include a little sleeping in, followed by a hearty brunch. If you find yourself also shopping around Friendship Heights and Mazza Gallerie, Lia’s might be just what your Sunday ordered.

From the culinary mind of Chef Geoff’s Downtown, sister restaurant, Lia’s offers a quiet respite from the hustle and bustle of Wisconsin Avenue. Hidden within the same office building as the Ritz Carlton, this quaint little spot offers a wonderfully filling brunch, in an unexpected atmosphere. Mirroring that of an Italian Eatery, Lia’s also offers a wonderful selection at lunch and dinner, winning awards as both Chevy Chase and Bethesda’s Best.

If Mother Nature decides that it’s time for Spring and the sun is out, grab a spot on the outside patio and bask in the sun while enjoying a Spicy bloody Mary, made fresh to order. However, if it ends up being drab and dreary, grab a seat at the bar and enjoy some Sunday morning ESPN or a cozy table in the main dining area.

What’s on the menu, you ask? Along with your usual brunch suspects, we have the same infamous scrambles that can be found at Chef Geoff’s brunches, as well as various spins on the classic Eggs Benedict. Our choices? Eggs Chesapeake, which substitutes the ham for crabmeat, and the English muffin for homemade biscuits, and; Smoked Salmon with brioche toast. Boring, you say? Perhaps, but why must every restaurant outing be filled with creative foams and pretentious fusion?

These two selections, though a bit slow in arriving to the table, were presented in a solid, sufficient manner. It is possible that if we had perhaps arrived during the height of brunch hours instead of at the very end, the service and execution of our meal could have been outstanding. Though a bit slow, and not quite as fresh as we’ve had in the past, we still wouldn’t think twice about returning. We may not rush back, but considering the hour and the location of the restaurant (which may hurt them now more than help), brunch was still quite relaxing and enjoyable.

In general, Lia’struly is a great find in the heart of Chevy Chase’s elite shopping district.  Another great thing about this family-oriented, relaxed find is that it is wallet-friendly!  Sundays offer half price bottles and the website offers you a $10 coupon!  That’s right, with this economy, every little bit counts!  Find your $10 coupon here and learn more about Chef Geoff Tracy’s other DC restaurants.

http://www.chefgeoff.com/jump/20090201_Lias.cfm

Lia’s

4435 Willard Avenue

Chevy Chase, MD 20815
Tel: 240.223.LIAS (5427)
www.LiasRestaurant.com

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At first glance, this is bound to intrigue even the shrewdest of drinkers. During a delightful Sunday brunch, my family and I were curious enough to inquire about the various Bloody Mary’s that were offered at the Park Hyatt’s renowned, Blue Duck Tavern in DC’s West End.

There was the Bloody Maria, which we had tried before and simply substitutes the vodka for tequila. There was also the Caesar, which incorporated a shot of Clamato juice in the mix, and was already crossed off the list of my veteran Bloody drinkers. And then, there was the Inside-Out Bloody. As brunch can sometimes become monotonous and predictable, this fun and creative twist on the otherwise standard brunch libation definitely delivered!

Pouring a healthy mixture of vodka and lime juice over frozen cubes of spicy Bloody Mary mix, this inventive concoction sheds new light on your ordinary brunch scene. It packs a powerful punch to start, but as the weight of the vodka melts into the icy bloody mix, this version of your favorite Sunday drink takes on a whole new meaning!

Try it next Sunday or anytime you’re in the West End neighborhood.  Blue Duck sets a relaxed, yet sophisticated scene with their rich, comforting menu.  Be sure to ask for Edwin as your server.  With his level of service, there’s just no other way to go!

Blue Duck Tavern

Park Hyatt Washington

24th Street and M Street

202.419.6755

Though it’s a toss-up between spring and fall as my favorite seasons, DC’s Cherry Blossoms definitely sway in favor of springtime. Even though the weather is horribly rainy cold one day, and then warm and beautiful the next, it seems fair to say that the National Cherry Blossom Festival may rank as one of DC’s most beautiful times of the year! And, what better way to enjoy the blossoms, than dining at one of the many renowned DC restaurants, many of which, prepare specialized menus highlighting springtime and of course, the fruit of the hour, the cherry.

Much like DC restaurant week, the two weeks encompassing the National Cherry Blossom Festival (March 28-April 12, 2009) features a number of restaurants offering prix fixe menus, all at special, economy-friendly prices! But, as a loyal reader to our HungryCity Blog DC, we are providing you with the inside track of how to make your cherry blossom experience V.I.P. For those of you wanting even more bang for your buck, you can get a FREE Drink, Dessert, or Appetizer (w/purchase of entree) at any of the “Cherry Picks Restaurants” listed on GoOut2eat.com. Just visit www.goout2eat.com between March 15 – April 12 and click on the Cherry Picks List!!

Participating restaurants are a plenty, and range from the newly opened, Adour at the St. Regis Hotel, Alain Ducasse’s blessing on the DC scene, to the exotic and far off lands of Mie N Yu, Georgetown’s hip escape to the silken roads of Moroccan-Indian-Asian cuisine!

For a complete listing, and more details, go to www.GoOut2eat.com!

One fish, two fish? Try a dozen! In the midst of Georgetown’s collegiate gathering of pubs and taverns, there lies a haven of fresh seafood, captured with an ocean-friendly vibe. Hook Restaurant, the sister and next-door neighbor to our beloved Tacklebox, provides an impressive selection of fresh fish, which change daily with the availability of the season. Hook not only offers an upscale dining experience, but also provides a unique opportunity to learn about the fish you are eating, as well as how and why that fish is the being served. As more and more establishments strive to increase their “green” practices, it is encouraging to see a seafood restaurant employ such humane and ecologically-sound techniques.

But, on to the food itself! Environmentally-conscious, sure—but, how about quality and flavor? I must say, high marks for Hook on this front as well. Dining with a fairly large group, we were able to sample a good portion of their menu and were not disappointed. From the fresh and unique crudo to the variety of exotic fish entrees, Hook did not miss a note! Splitting the menu into courses, we started with a nice sampling of appetizers, including Oysters on the Half Shell, the House Cured crudo, Tuna Tartare and Wedding Soup.

The crudo, one of the more unique offerings at Hook, included a wonderful trio of house cured sardine, bouqerone and salmon.  In case you’re curious, crudo is kind of like an Italian form for sashimi, however is usually “dressed” with some sort of acid (lemon juice), olive oil and/or sea salt.  The favorite at the table seemed to be the Portuguese Sardine, accompanied with fresh capers and freshly shaved parmesan.

As we made our way to the main event, I was pleasantly surprised at our dining experience up to that point.  Service was knowledgable and friendly, but not overbearing and intrusive.  There were five of us, so though I can attest that all five entrees were wonderfully conceived and executed, I will only highlight the top two so that this remains a blog, and not a term paper!

My Colorado bound brother-in-law chose the Wild Striped Bass.  Hailing from North Carolina, this exquisite filet of fish arrived perfectly cooked, set atop creamy polenta, with a side of deliciously southern kohlrabi greens with bits of pork belly.  Yum! The dish was a perfect example of simple, home-inspired flavors, beautifully melded upon a flawlessly prepared striped bass. As it made its way around the table, you definitely noticed that everyone sampled a second and third bite!

And, the crème de la crème for the evening, in my opinion, was the Hawaiian Moi. Served whole, this highly desired fish, is only found within Hawaii’s waters, and historically was served only to Hawaiian royalty. Royalty indeed! Beautifully grilled whole, this royal fish is presented on a bed of saffron rice with tomatoes, freshly cut green beans and a warm basil butter. Mmmmm, go ahead…take a breath…sounds to good to be true, right? Though to some, it may not sound spectacular without the emulsions and flavored foam of so many culinary artists of today, the bold, colorful presentation combined with such a clean and unpretentious flavor was enough to win me over. Not to mention, saffron and tomatoes are near and dear to my own palette!

Not convinced? Take a look at these pics, and then head over to Hook to see for yourself! Don’t forget, their menu changes daily, so though these specific dishes may not be offered, you’re guaranteed that the catches of the day will be fresh, seasonal and undoubtedly some of DC’s best! For you dessert lovers out there, be sure to also try dessert! Hook’s award winning pastry chef cooks up some delicious and creative options for even the pickiest sweet tooth!! Need more convincing? How does a Lingonberry Linzertorte with Taleggio Cheese Ice Cream and a Port Wine Reduction sound??? …….Uh-huh, that’s what I thought!

Hook Restaurant

3241 M St NW

Washington, DC 20007

(202) 625-4488

www.hookdc.com

So, for my DC buddies out there, I realize it’s been quite awhile. However, instead of listing a plethora of excuses (though they are pretty good ones!), I’ll simply jump back into the blogging scene and tell you about my most recent brunch excursion!

Within the modern, sleek design of the Liaison Hotel on Capitol Hill, we find Art and Soul. Though I am generally not one for hotel spots, Chef Art Smith (formerly Oprah’s chef, for you Harpo fans) proves to be an exception to the rule. Serving up southern favorites with a hint of DC sophistication, there was not one thing we would have changed about our brunch experience, except for maybe the weather—and that is hardly under the control of any restaurant!

From the moment we sat down, we were promptly served a piping hot dish of what I can only guess is their version of a sticky bun. Served directly from a mini cast iron skillet, these wondrous buns were generously coated with a sugary cinnamon rub that melted in your mouth! Be sure to eat these right away, as they are best when hot and due to the nature of all things sugar-coated, tend to have a short shelf life. We, of course, had no problem devouring them and so, enjoyed them immensely!

As we perused the menu, which on Sundays is broken up into Brunch/Supper, we quickly chose one of our Southern favorites: Chicken and Waffles. For my avid readers out there, I know that I have already raved about this same dish at a neighborhood favorite, Founding Farmers–and while deliciously sinful as well, I must say that Chef Smith’s version barely had a fighting chance as our plate was empty in record time! Served with a pecan maple syrup and sausage gravy, this was definitely a winner. Perhaps it was the addition of pecans that got me?

I could go on and on….but, bottom line, I would say get over to Capitol Hill and try Art and Soul.  Not only is it a beautiful space, but the food is wonderfully simple and offers some of the best Southern favorites.  Located in such a stylish and art-infused space, you would never expect a menu serving up Po’ Boys, fried chicken and hoecakes! Yum!

Art and Soul

www.artandsouldc.com

415 New Jersey Avenue NW

Washington, DC 20001

(202) 393-7777

Looking for some fun and exciting weekend activities? Hoping on some outdoor fun and good eats? Or, perhaps are you waiting on pins and needles for this incessant rain to stop!?!? DC’s National Harbor has the answers this weekend as it hosts it’s second annual Food and Wine Festival this weekend from June 6-7, 2009! That’s right, come rain or shine, our own brand new harbor celebrates once again with exciting beer, wine and food tasting from all over!! Top Chef fans can come by and see former contestants, Carla, of DC”s Alchemy Caterers, Spike from Capitol Hill’s Good Stuff Eatery, and Ariane Duarte, who will be giving a fun cooking demo for the kids!! This will be quite an event with local chefs and restaurants gathering together for some good food and fun in the sun (hopefully). If you’re interested, go to the events website at http://www.foodandwinenh.com/event.html and get your tickets!! Ticket info is below:General Admission – 21 years or older *One Day Festival Pass: $65.00. You must be 21 years or older to qualify for this ticket. Photo ID will be required for alcohol sampler wristband.General Admission – 12 to 20 years old *One Day Festival Pass: $30.00. You must be 12 to 20 years old to qualify for this ticket. Only non-alcoholic beverages will be available with this ticket.

General Admission – 6 to 11 years old *One Day Festival Pass: $15.00. You must be 6 to 11 years old to qualify for this ticket. Only non-alcoholic beverages will be available with this ticket. **Children 5 and under are Free!!

In other National Harbor news, have you heard about the latest news of our very own National Harbor pairing up with Mickey Mouse?  The National Harbor is certainly THE place to be this weekend and in the upcoming year!  As one of those crazy Disney fans myself, I just recently heard that a large lot of land in the Nation’s capitol has been purchased by owners of the “Happiest Place on Earth” to build yet another Disney resort!  Sources say the purchase was just weeks ago, so I’m sure the “imagineers” are in the midst of creating what will be the first DC Disney Resort!

So, keep an eye out for those Mouse Ears to popup sometime in the next year or two!! Until then, we’ll see you this weekend at the Food and Wine Festival!

National Harbor Food and Wine Festival
National Harbor
137 National Plaza
National Harbor, Maryland 20745 (map it)
443-716-2800

Looking for some fun and exciting weekend activities? Hoping on some outdoor fun and good eats? Or, perhaps are you waiting on pins and needles for this incessant rain to stop!?!? DC’s National Harbor has the answers this weekend as it hosts it’s second annual Food and Wine Festival this weekend from June 6-7, 2009! That’s right, come rain or shine, our own brand new harbor celebrates once again with exciting beer, wine and food tasting from all over!!

Top Chef fans can come by and see former contestants, Carla, of DC”s Alchemy Caterers, Spike from Capitol Hill’s Good Stuff Eatery, and Ariane Duarte, who will be giving a fun cooking demo for the kids!!

This will be quite an event with local chefs and restaurants gathering together for some good food and fun in the sun (hopefully). If you’re interested, go to the events website at http://www.foodandwinenh.com/event.html and get your tickets!! Ticket info is below:

General Admission – 21 years or older *One Day Festival Pass: $65.00.

You must be 21 years or older to qualify for this ticket. Photo ID will be required for alcohol sampler wristband.

General Admission – 12 to 20 years old *One Day Festival Pass: $30.00. You must be 12 to 20 years old to qualify for this ticket. Only non-alcoholic beverages will be available with this ticket.

General Admission – 6 to 11 years old *One Day Festival Pass: $15.00. You must be 6 to 11 years old to qualify for this ticket. Only non-alcoholic beverages will be available with this ticket. **Children 5 and under are Free

In other National Harbor news, have you heard about the latest news of our very own National Harbor pairing up with Mickey Mouse?  The National Harbor is certainly THE place to be this weekend and in the upcoming year!  As one of those crazy Disney fans myself, I just recently heard that a large lot of land in the Nation’s capitol has been purchased by owners of the “Happiest Place on Earth” to build yet another Disney resort!  Sources say the purchase was just weeks ago, so I’m sure the “imagineers” are in the midst of creating what will be the first DC Disney Resort!

So, keep an eye out for those Mouse Ears to popup sometime in the next year or two!! Until then, we’ll see you this weekend at the Food and Wine Festival!

National Harbor Food and Wine Festival
National Harbor
137 National Plaza
National Harbor, Maryland 20745 (map it)
443-716-2800

For the seven years that I have lived in the DC area, I have often lamented at the lack of mini golf in nearby suburbia, let alone within the DC city limits. All of the true mini golf spots, (you know, the ones with the windmills and next door ice cream shops?!) seemed to be reserved for the outskirts of Ocean City, but who needs that commute just for some fun? If one wanted some whimsical entertainment accompanied by adult beverages, there were places like Dave and Buster’s (sigh) and of course, the now established Rocket Bar in Gallery Place, both of which gave us such things as arcade games, pool and skee-ball. Not to diminish these fine places, but I am happy to announce that I have found something else, dare I say, something better!

Down the road from Gallery Place, within the NE quadrant of our fine city, we find the H Street Country Club. Let me just say, that this is a one-of-a-kind place that I will certainly be frequenting! H Street offers the wonderfully inventive Tex-Mex fare by award-winning Chef Ann Cashion, a fun and casual bar with shuffleboard, pool tables and skee-ball, AND the pièce de résistance….a 9-hole miniature golf course!! That’s right, folks! Upstairs behind the cozy dining area of the H Street Country Club, we find a wonderfully whimsy, DC-inspired masterpiece. Nine holes, each dedicated to piece of DC. Sure, it may be mini mini-golf, but good times can be had by all! I cannot say enough good things about this place! H Street is as eclectic and “DC-centric” as they claim to be.

After the exciting self-guided tour of the bar, we made our way upstairs to the dining area and golf course. The main dining room is cozy, offering about ten or so tables and booths, as well as a smaller bar with limited seating. The décor is a great mix of city street art, mix-matched hanging lanterns/birdhouses and golf ball fun!

We started with the Pork Tacos al Carbon, and the made-to-order house guacamole. A Texan at heart, I’ve often found it a bit difficult to find Tex-Mex that is as authentic and tasty as my home state. H Street Country Club fits the bill. Homemade corn tortillas, fresh guacamole and crema—truly delicious!! We shared an entrée of Lamb Enchiladas with Green Rice, which were not only full of creative flavors, but packed a punch! H Street’s homemade salsas are not for the weary— the heat is subtle, but builds in flavor and spice as you eat. Paired with our freshly made margaritas, I don’t think there was one element of the evening that I would change!

For those of you, who have been waiting on pins and needles for them to open, wait no longer! H Street offers such a unique experience; I almost don’t want to share it! The crowds are growing, so go ahead and check it out for yourself already!!

H Street Country Club

1335 H Street, NE

Washington, DC 20002

202.399.HSCC (4722)

www.hstreetcountryclub.com

So, about nine months ago, I started looking for places to host our upcoming wedding.  As a Starwood groupie, I was THRILLED to be able to take a hard hat tour of the now open W Hotel Washington DC and see the wonderment within.  From the moment I walked in, I could envision not only the historic beauty of the original Hotel Washington, but the nuanced sophistication that one comes to expect from the elegantly urban W Hotels.

Now, as we fast forward to the present, it has been not quite a week that the W DC has opened it’s doors, and it is already becoming the city’s newest hotspot!

Offering unparalleled views of our nation’s capital, POV (Wonderfully abbreviated Point of view) delivers both on service and substance.  Mixology fans line up!  You’ll find no ordinary cocktails here.  Be prepared for ginger beer (made in-house) and muddled fruit libations creatively concocted with that W flair. And, if you’re not into the mixology offerings, no worries– the W DC covers it all, with a cozy, chic Wine Bar in J&G’s Steakhouse. DC’s oldest hotel has received a makeover, and it’s hip, yet luxurious decor redefines what will soon be the quintessential DC hotspot.

And, for those of you who worry that the view from the Hotel Washington may be tainted– think again.  The POV Rooftop Terrace offers that same wonderful view of the White House lawn, with a style and quality that can only be identified with that W refined class.

Word to the wise: be prepared to feel a hit on your wallet as these views do not come cheap.  Offering $15 libations, this isn’t your average neighborhood bar and, like most grand openings, it may take some time for the staff to adjust to their new found fame.  But, take one look at the city’s best views, and it’ll be more than worthwhile!  Be sure to plan ahead and make a reservation.  Opening merely six days ago, the lines are already forming…..

POV Rooftop Terrace

W Washington, DC

515 15th Street, NW

Washington, DC 20004

202.661.2400