March is Women’s History Month, and International Women’s Day lands on March 8, which feels like the perfect moment to be intentional about where we spend our dining dollars. The DMV hospitality community is powered by women who are building businesses, leading kitchens, shaping beverage programs, and mentoring the next generation. Some are household names. Some are neighborhood heroes. All deserve the spotlight.Here’s a look at the women behind some of the region’s most exciting bakeries, restaurants, bars, and beverage programs.Bakeries & Cafés-Baked by Yael — Yael Krigman opened DC’s first “cakepoppery,” building a nut-free and kosher bakery known for cakepops & bagels.-Here’s The Scoop — Karin Sellers turned her Georgia Avenue shop into a sweet destination and a true neighborhood gathering space serving ice cream and desserts.-Olivia Macaron — Ana Claudia Lopez founded this Georgetown macaron boutique, bringing rows of delicate French confections in celebration of joy and color.-Praline Bakery — Former White House pastry chef Susan Limb co-founded Praline in 2006, building a loyal following for sweet and savory patisserie with serious technique behind it.-Rose Ave Bakery — Chef Rose Nguyen transitioned from pediatric nursing to full-time baking, bringing Southeast Asian–inspired pastries and creative coffee drinks to Woodley Park.-Sticky Fingers — Doron Petersan built this 100% vegan bakery from scratch, winning Cupcake Wars twice and proving plant-based treats can win over absolutely everyone.-Teaism — Michelle Brown and Linda Neuman opened Teaism to deepen appreciation for tea culture, pairing thoughtful tea programs with Asian-inspired comfort food that has stood the test of time.-Uncle Chip’s — Founded by Shannon Boyle, this Truxton Circle cookie shop delivers a homespun, one-of-a-kind cookie experience.Restaurants-Ama — Chef Johanna Hellrigl blends Northern Italian tradition with a sustainability-forward philosophy, moving effortlessly from daytime café to evening ristorante.-Baan Siam — Chef Jeeraporn “Boom” Poksupthong continues to impress with bold Thai flavors, balancing tradition with evolving, spice-forward additions.-Centrolina — Amy Brandwein’s flagship Italian restaurant remains one of the most influential kitchens in the region. A multi-time James Beard nominee, she continues to mentor and advocate while delivering elevated Italian cuisine.-Fat Fish — Brittany Lewis, Linda Bacci, and Brianna Keefe bring environmentally conscious, locally sourced seafood to The Wharf.-Fava Pot — Chef Dina Daniel turned her Egyptian food truck into a beloved brick-and-mortar serving falafel and fava beans slow-cooked for 12 hours.-Fish Shop — Chef Ria Montes highlights seafood with globally influenced flavors that celebrate local ingredients.-Kayu — Chef Julie Cortes brings precision and bold flavors to the kitchen, representing the next wave of women shaping DC’s dining scene.-Lapis — Chef Shamim Popal brings generations of Afghan family recipes to this MICHELIN Bib Gourmand restaurant from The Popal Group.-Maydan — Rose Previte transformed her global travels into one of DC’s most acclaimed live-fire restaurants, earning international recognition and accolades.-Pascual — Isabel Coss brings modern Mexican cooking while honoring traditional techniques and presenting dishes with refined precision. Her food tells stories of family and place.-Purple Patch — Patrice Cleary’s Filipino-American restaurant honors her heritage and her mother’s recipes, helping define DC’s Filipino dining story.-The Duck & The Peach — Hollis Wells Silverman built a trio of Capitol Hill concepts, including this refined New American dining room led by Executive Chef Katarina Petonito.-Thip Khao — Chef Seng Luangrath delivers deeply authentic Lao cuisine, bringing bright, spicy, and fermented flavors to the forefront of DC dining.-The Wildset Hotel — This women-owned boutique hotel in St. Michaels was founded by two sisters and  highlights female entrepreneurship throughout the property, from women artists and authors to women-founded brands and female winemakers on the wine list.Pastry Chefs-Lutèce — Ana Sofía Pino balances classic technique delivering refined desserts that feel elegant without ever feeling fussy.-Moon Rabbit — Susan Bae brings precision and personality to every dessert, layering bold flavors into pastries that are as thoughtful as they are beautiful.-The Duck & The Peach — Rochelle Cooper, Executive Pastry Chef for the Eastern Point Collective, crafts polished, seasonal desserts not only for The Duck & The Peach, but also for sister restaurants La Collina and The Wells.-Yellow — Alicia Wang leads the celebrated French-Levantine pastry program for Chef Michael Rafidi’s concepts, including Yellow and Albi. There is a reason the Za’atar and Labne Croissant is a signature.Bars, Wine Bars & Markets-a.kitchen+bar — Led by James Beard Award-winning restaurateur Ellen Yin, this natural-wine-driven spot champions seasonal ingredients.-Apéro & La Bohème — Advanced sommelier Elli Benchimol owns this Champagne and caviar destination, operated by an all-female executive team.-Bar Charley — Co-owned by Jackie Greenbaum, this Adams Morgan staple pairs creative cocktails with a lively neighborhood vibe.-Binge Bar — Founded by Vergie “Gigi” Arandid, this H Street spot is DC’s first fully alcohol-free bar, proving a great night out doesn’t require spirits.-Boogy & Peel — LGBTQ-woman-owned and led by Rachael Jennings, this pizza-and-cocktail spot blends comfort with craft.-Buffalo & Bergen — Gina Chersevani’s soda shop–style cocktail bar serves bagels, playful drinks, and a cult-favorite Bloody Mary.-Cork Wine Bar — Owned by Diane Gross (and her husband, Khalid), this Logan Circle institution remains a go-to for serious wine lovers.-DCanter — Founded by Michelle Lim, this natural wine bar and bottle shop champions approachable, and thoughtfully curated bottles.-Era Wine Bar — Michelle Grant, a certified sommelier and entrepreneur opened this wine bar alongside her husband and is known for eclectic global selections.-Nido Wine Shop + Market — Owned by Erin Lingle, Thea Merl, and Morgan Stana, this Mount Pleasant wine shop specializing in natural wines and Mediterranean fare.Women Behind the Bar-Allegory — Kapri Robinson, Princess “PJ” Johnson, and Kate Boushel have helped shape one of DC’s most celebrated cocktail programs, earning national and international recognition.-Press Club — Ashtyn “Ash” Harris brings creative, nostalgic cocktails and polished technique to the bar.-Service Bar — Christine Kim has been instrumental in shaping the bar’s culture and hospitality-first approach since its opening. This list is by no means exhaustive, but it’s a reminder that the DMV dining scene is powered by women who are constantly building, and leading every single day. This month (and every month), support accordingly.

There are days when you want a perfectly portioned omakase, and then there are days when you want to look your server in the eye and say, “Yes, we’ll take another round.” All-you-can-eat (AYCE) sushi and bottomless brunch offerings are having a moment around the DMV — from luxe Sunday spreads to neighborhood sushi spots where the rolls just keep coming, here’s where to settle in and stay awhile.Bar Chinois455 Eye Street NWBar Chinois has officially entered the bottomless chat with its Bottomless Dim Sum Brunch. Guests can choose $37 bottomless dim sum, $23 bottomless drinks, or combine both for $57 — which, frankly, is the move. Available Saturdays and Sundays from 11AM to 5PM with a two-hour time limit, the unlimited plates include fan favorites like Red Chili Wontons with pork and shrimp, Gyoza de Boeuf filled with French onion beef and gruyere, and Breakfast Fried Rice with shrimp and sweet pork sausage. It may not be strictly sushi, but it absolutely satisfies the unlimited small plates craving. More at barchinoisdc.com.  Nobu2525 M Street NWYes, that Nobu. The downtown DC location recently introduced an all-you-can-eat Sunday brunch featuring an unlimited spread of signature dishes including Crispy Rice Tuna, Yellowtail Jalapeño, Cod Butter Lettuce, Shrimp Cocktail, plus salads, pastries, desserts, and live chef stations with Ribeye carving and hand rolls made to order. The experience is priced at $80 per adult and $40 for children 12 and under, with brunch cocktail specials available for purchase. Offered Sundays from 11AM to 2PM, this is an indulgent way to do unlimited. More info at noburestaurants.com  Love, Makoto200 Massachusetts Ave NWLove, Makoto has debuted an extensive all-you-can-eat brunch buffet priced at $65 per person, excluding beverages. The spread includes Baked Crab Hand Rolls, Tuna Crispy Rice, Miso Salmon, Roasted Strip Loin, Pork Shoulder, Housemade Soba Noodles, three varieties of Mochi Donuts, and the Dear Sushi Ichigo Strawberry. It’s expansive and designed for lingering. Details at lovemakoto.com.  Sushi SatoH Street NEChef Tim Ma’s Sushi Sato offers a vibrant dining experience in a stylish setting along H Street NE. The menu features fresh sushi, sashimi, classic rolls, and creative rolls, with occasional AYCE specials and add-ons such as Japanese-inspired cocktails, sake selections, and even all-you-can-drink select beer. It’s a lively option for those looking to mix quality sushi with a high-energy atmosphere. More information at sushisatodc.com More AYCE Sushi Around the DMVSushi OnSushi BombKumo Asian BistroHokkaido Sushi & Steak HousePro Tips Before You GoMost AYCE spots have time limits, typically ranging from 90 minutes to two hours. Ordering excessively and wasting food can result in additional charges, so pacing yourself is key. Reservations are recommended for brunch formats and weekend evenings. Many locations offer optional add-ons like sake, Japanese-inspired cocktails, or all-you-can-drink select beer packages.Whether you’re brunching at Nobu, dim-summing at Bar Chinois, exploring Love, Makoto’s buffet, or going full roll marathon in Virginia, the DMV has fully embraced the unlimited era. The only real question is how strategic you plan to be.

Big, big news for our region’s dining scene — StarChefs has announced its 2026 DMV Rising Stars and once again the talent coming out of Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia proves that this is one of the most exciting culinary regions in the country.For those who may not know, StarChefs is the national restaurant industry magazine that has been spotlighting up-and-coming talent for over 30 years. Their Rising Stars Awards are no small thing, the editorial team conducts hundreds of in-person tastings before selecting the chefs, pastry pros, bartenders, sommeliers, and hospitality leaders who represent the future of American dining. This year marks the 95th Rising Stars class nationally and the 7th class from the DMV.To celebrate, StarChefs is hosting the DMV Rising Stars Restaurant Week from March 4–18, 2026, giving diners the chance to experience signature dishes and drinks from this new class. Consider this your two-week excuse to get out and support the next generation of industry leaders.Here are your 2026 DMV Rising Stars:Chefs:-Jason Chavenson**, Maison Bar à Vins-Julie Cortes, Kayu-Alam Méndez, Apapacho Taqueria-Ria Montes, Fish Shop-Jarrad Silver**, Silver & Sons BBQ-Martel Stone**, Dōgon-Robbie Tutlewski**, Little Donna’s (Baltimore)Pastry Chefs:-Susan Bae, Moon Rabbit-Ana Sofía Pino, LutèceBaker:-Ashley Patino,  Julio’s Bagels & Pizza Bones (Richmond)Game Changer:-Leah Branch, The Roosevelt (Richmond)Restaurateur:Lane Harlan, Clavel, Fadensonnen, The Coral Wig, W.C. Harlan (Baltimore)Community:-Deke Dunne, AllegoryConcept:-Keiller Kyle, Ovenbird Bakery (Baltimore)Butcher:-Kyle Morse, The Mayor (Richmond)Bartenders:-Andre Levon, Clavel Mezcaleria (Baltimore)-Samuel Nellis**, Silver Lyan (Yeah, Sammy!)Sommeliers:-Eric Moorer, Gemini-Grayum Vickers, Lillian (Richmond)Roaster:-Kris Fulton, Sophomore Coffee (Baltimore)Mentor:Matt Conroy & Isabel Coss, The Popal Group (Lutèce, Maison Bar à Vins, PascualWhat we love about this list? It spans D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. It celebrates chefs, bakers, bartenders, butchers, sommeliers, restaurateurs, and community builders. It reflects a region that continues to evolve  and lead, even in these challenging times.For more information and the full details on DMV Rising Stars Restaurant Week, visit: starchefs.com 

Big news out of the Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington (RAMW): Mayor Muriel Bowser has been named the 2026 recipient of the prestigious Duke Zeibert Capital Achievement Award.Each year, RAMW’s Executive Committee selects an individual who has demonstrably elevated the profile and success of the greater Washington dining landscape and foodservice community. The honor is part of The RAMMYS Honors, which celebrates the changemakers, champions, and institutions that embody the spirit of our region’s restaurant industry.Mayor Bowser’s recognition reflects more than a decade of leadership shaping policy that impacts DC’s small business and hospitality communities. From championing mixed-use developments that helped bring restaurants into neighborhoods across all eight wards, to expanding grant programs like Great Streets, the Food Access Fund, and pandemic relief initiatives, her administration has played a significant role in supporting the city’s restaurant ecosystem. She has also taken strong public positions on issues impacting operators and workers, including defending the tip credit amid Initiative 82 reform.Mark Your Calendar, The RAMMYS Honors Cocktail Reception will take place at The Watergate Hotel on May 5, 2026, from 6PM to 9PM, where Mayor Bowser — along with other dining industry leaders — will be celebrated. Additional honorees will be announced in the coming weeks.It’s always exciting to see the broader community that supports our restaurant scene recognized, because behind every great dining city is leadership that understands its value.For more information on The RAMMYS Honors, visit: ramw.org

Winter Ready? The DMV has officially settled into cozy season. Think rich braises, bubbling cheese, and just-baked desserts. At TheListAreYouOnIt.com, we’ve rounded up the can’t-miss bites  and experiences to get you through winter deliciously.Make a night of it, see a show and grab a great pre- or post-theatre meal with our theatre + dining guide (here).Winter activations are back: igloos, skating rinks, and après-ski vibes all over the DMV (here).This week's list of The List's favorite beverages, here.Cozy up fireside - see the best spots, here.You don’t need an excuse to visit a Black-owned business or celebrate Black history and culture…here’s the list.So much more cozy, crave-worthy goodness below:MARK YOUR CALENDAR: Twenty Years of Mandu: Mandu is marking its 20th anniversary in 2026 with a monthly collaborative dining series celebrating 2 decades in D.C.’s dining scene. The yearlong series brings guest chefs into the kitchen for special tasting menus inspired by Mandu’s Korean roots and the shared language of global cuisines. Scheduled dinners include Tuesday, March 10 with G’Albi and Chef Michael Rafidi of Albi, Yellow, and La Shukran; Tuesday, April 7 with Chef Masako Morishita of Perry’s and Chef Matt Adler of Caruso’s Grocery and Cucina Morini; and Thursday, May 7, an AAPI Month celebration with Chef Erik Bruner-Yang of Maketto and Chef Steve Chu of Ekiben; Click here for more info.Blue Duck Tavern Anniversary:  Blue Duck Tavern will toast 20 years in the nation’s capital as one of the city’s most iconic restaurants in June 2026. To honor this monumental occasion, nationally recognized chefs, who formerly spearheaded Blue Duck Tavern, will return to prepare their signature dishes for a special dinner gathering accompanied by merrymaking over 2006 vintages from Blue Duck Tavern's Sommelier selections. The five-course feast will take place on Wednesday, June 10, with a champagne reception and hors d'oeuvres at 6 p.m. blueducktavern.comCarla Hall One-Woman Show: Carla Hall is debuting her world premiere solo show, “Please Underestimate Me!”, at the Olney Theatre Center this summer. In the one-woman production, the award-winning chef, author, and TV personality shares a candid, humorous, and deeply personal look at her journey—from her Tennessee roots and Howard University to Paris runways. The DC chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier has reserved a block of seats for 2 performances: Friday, June 26 and Thursday, July 9 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $72.00, with a portion supporting scholarships and mentorship for women in food and hospitality. A special $92.00 ticket for the June 26 performance includes a post-show meet-and-greet with Carla Hall and light refreshments; buy tickets here.NEW & NOTEWORTHY: Ragu for You: Vermilion is hosting a Sunday Night Ragu Family Dinner each week starting at 4:00 p.m., offering a hearty family-style Italian feast for $35.00 per person in the tavern, bar, and lounge. The meal features Chef Anthony Chittum’s slow-cooked ragu with pork spare ribs, braised Angus beef, meatballs, fennel sausage, plum tomatoes, and hand-cut egg noodles. The spread also includes a lacinato kale Caesar, sourdough garlic bread, and apple cider donuts with salted caramel and frozen custard for dessert. Guests can also pair the meal with featured red wines by the bottle selected to complement the Sunday feast; vermilionrestaurant.comSisters Are Doing It for Themselves: Hank’s Oyster Bar x Purple Patch: In honor of Women’s History Month, Hank’s Oyster Bar is teaming up with Purple Patch for a month-long collaboration led by chefs Jamie Leeds, Shannan Troncoso, and Patrice Cleary. The limited-time menu features Fried Goose Point Oysters with Hank’s tartar sauce and Purple Patch’s suka, Patrice’s Lobster Pancit with Maine lobster and shiitake mushrooms, and a Spicy Calamansi Margarita made with roasted jalapeño tequila and house calamansi sour. A portion of proceeds from the collaboration will benefit N Street Village, which supports local women experiencing homelessness; hanksoysterbar.comLions and Tigers and Bears, Oh My: Chef Jon Krinn is debuting a boundary-pushing seasonal tasting menu featuring rare proteins like wood pigeon, kangaroo, and sturgeon in a carefully curated multi-course progression. Available for the next 4 weeks, the menu highlights Krinn’s signature approach, pairing globally inspired flavors with refined technique and artful presentation. Tucked away on Fairfax Boulevard, Elyse has earned a reputation as a Northern Virginia hidden gem, offering adventurous diners an intimate tasting experience that pushes the boundaries of fine dining; elyse.lila.llcHello, Friend: Kevin Tien x Alan Bo: Chef Kevin Tien debuts Chao Ban at Tysons Galleria alongside longtime partner Alan Vo. The fast-casual Vietnamese-American counter concept draws inspiration from the pair’s upbringing as first-generation Vietnamese raised in Louisiana, blending Southeast Asian flavors with familiar American formats. The opening menu will feature dishes like pho noodles, a catfish bánh mì, rice platters, and shareable snacks such as Impossible xiu mai and honey pecan shrimp; tysonsgalleria.comWe All Want a Love Bazaar: Chef José Andrés is bringing his acclaimed steakhouse concept to the Waldorf Astoria Washington DC, replacing The Bazaar in the historic Old Post Office building. Bazaar Meat centers on premium cuts and fire-driven cooking, with dishes like ribeye “chuleton,” bone-in New York strip, Japanese wagyu, and a traditional whole suckling pig for communal dining. The menu will also feature signature Bazaar favorites—including the Cotton Candy Foie Gras and Caviar Cone—alongside seafood, jamón, and vegetable dishes, plus a multi-course tasting menu for a more immersive experience; thebazaar.comAfter-Hours: Maison Bar à Vins is hosting “I Heard It Through the Grapevine,” a late-night event on Sunday, March 8 starting at 8:00 p.m. The evening, in collaboration with Press Club and sponsored by Pierre Ferrand/Planteray, will feature late-night bites, wine cocktails, and a live DJ. Press Club’s Ashtyn Harris will also be guest bartending for the night; maisondc.comPasta with a View: Capitano has opened at The Wharf inside Canopy by Hilton, bringing a coastal Italian dining experience inspired by the seaside villages of Southern Italy. The menu highlights fresh seafood, crudo, housemade pastas, vibrant salads, and seasonal specialties, alongside a beverage program featuring Southern Italian wines, coastal-inspired cocktails, and a dedicated spritz menu. The bright, reimagined space evokes a relaxed Southern Italian piazza with floor-to-ceiling windows, ceramic tile accents, and waterfront views, making it a new go-to for aperitivo, lunch, and dinner along the Wharf; capitanodc.comSisters Are Doing It for Themselves - Dolcezza x Chef Tseng: For Women’s History Month, Dolcezza is teaming up with Chef Seng Luangrath (Baan Mae, Thip Khao, Padaek) on a limited-time White Rabbit Soft Serve Sundae launching March 9 through March 31. Inspired by the iconic Shanghai milk candy, the sundae features White Rabbit soft serve topped with Dragon’s Beard sesame-peanut crunch, crispy scallion wonton noodles, peanut brittle, fresh lime zest, and a haw candy disc. The collaboration will be available at select Dolcezza locations (including H Street, CityCenterDC & the Hirshhorn) as well as Luangrath’s restaurants; dolcezzagelato.comPlant-Based in Penn Quarter: Fruitive has opened a new Penn Quarter location, expanding its footprint with a larger, 2,500-square-foot space and an expanded menu. The fast-casual concept is known for its 100% plant-based, organic offerings, including cold-pressed juices, smoothies, grain bowls, vegan waffles, and açaí bowls made with specialty fair-trade fruit sourced directly from Bolivia. Founded in 2015 by Gregg and Katie Rozeboom, Fruitive has become a mainstay in D.C.’s wellness-focused dining scene, emphasizing clean ingredients, sustainable sourcing, and nourishing options for breakfast, lunch, and on-the-go dining; fruitive.comSunday Gravy: Caruso’s Grocery - Pike & Rose is now hosting Sunday Family Dinner, a weekly 3-course dining experience designed for sharing and classic Italian-American comfort. Available every Sunday from 4:00 to 9:00 p.m., the $35.00 per person prix-fixe menu allows guests to select 1 dish from each course, offering a generous lineup of Caruso’s favorites in one satisfying meal. The special brings back the tradition of gathering around the table for hearty pastas, comforting mains, and nostalgic desserts; carusosgrocery.comGrab n Go (Lunch Alert): HI/FI Tex-Mex BBQ at Mosaic has introduced a new $15.00 lunch special featuring 2 Tex-Mex tacos, 1 side, and a soda, available as a weekday-to-weekend deal. Guests can mix and match tacos like the Orange Soda-Braised Carnitas with American cheese, curtido, smoked crema, and chicharrones, among other rotating options, making it one of Northern Virginia’s more crave-worthy midday steals; hifitexmexbbq.comGelato on 14th: Pitango Gelato has opened a new location along the 14th Street corridor, marking the brand’s 8th shop in the region. The authentic Italian gelateria and coffee bar serves hand-spun gelato and sorbet made from scratch with high-quality ingredients—think Sicilian pistachios and single-origin chocolate—alongside freshly brewed coffee, Italian baked goods, and seasonal sipping chocolate. The 1,027-square-foot space features Pitango’s signature mahogany-and-marble counter and indoor seating, bringing the company back to the neighborhood where it first planted its D.C. roots nearly two decades ago; pitangogelato.comLasagna for Brunch, Lasagna for Dinner (Brunch Alert): L’Ardente has expanded its weekend hours and introduced its first-ever happy hour. On Saturdays and Sundays, the kitchen now runs all day with no break between brunch and dinner, and the full dinner menu is available starting at 11:00 a.m. Weekend brunch dishes are served from 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., featuring options like Avocado Toast with lemon ricotta, French Riviera Toast, Egg & Cheese Pizza, Eggs Benedict, Steak and Eggs, and The Works. Brunch cocktails include a Caprese Bloody Mary, Sorbetto Spritz, and a Mimosa Cart for the table; lardente.comIftar Offerings - Lapis: The MICHELIN Bib Gourmand–recognized Afghan restaurant is offering a Ramadan prix-fixe menu available through March 19 in Adams Morgan. Priced at $65.00 per person, the Iftar meal is designed to break the fast with comforting Afghan specialties, with example dishes including crispy pakora, beef kofta in tomato sauce, cardamom-scented rice pudding, and green or black tea; lapisdc.comIftar Offerings - Thompson Restaurant Group: Thompson Restaurants is expanding access to Halal dining across the DMV just ahead of Ramadan. Effective immediately, all chicken and beef offerings at every Matchbox location, as well as Ms. Peach’s and Makers Union in Ashburn, are now available Halal. All Big Buns locations offer Halal Angus beef, with the One Loudoun outpost also serving Halal chicken. The update responds to growing demand for Halal-certified options without compromising on menu variety; thompsonrestaurants.comIftar Offerings - Joon: In honor of Ramadan, Joon is offering a $45.00 per person Iftar menu available February 17 through March 19. The evening begins with stuffed Medjoul dates with walnuts and brown butter, followed by hot pistachio soup with leek, ginger, saffron, and sour orange. Guests can then choose between roasted harissa chicken with toum or lamb shoulder pavé, served alongside labneh harra, grilled carrots with harissa and lemon, dango (stewed chickpeas with tahina, Aleppo chile, and lime), torshi liteh, and house lavash; eatjoon.comIftar Offerings - NAJA Mediterranean: In observance of Ramadan, NAJA Mediterranean is offering special Iftar pre-set menus nightly after 5:30 p.m. from February 18 through March 20. Priced at $35.00 and $55.00 per person, both menus begin with dates and Shorbat Adas, a traditional lentil soup served to break the fast. The $35.00 option includes a choice of mezze followed by entrées like Roasted Half Chicken with markook and toum, Salmon with vermicelli rice, Adobo Cauliflower, or a Chicken Shawarma Platter, plus dessert. The $55.00 Ramadan edition of NAJA’s Table is designed for sharing, featuring grape leaves, kibbeh, signature spreads, fattoush, cheesy pita, and a mixed kebab platter with roasted chicken, koobideh, kofta, and shrimp, along with dessert selections; reserve your table here. NOT NEW, BUT NOTEWORTHY:Sit n Stay (Lunch Alert): Josephine in Old Town Alexandria has introduced a new weekday Lunch Special, offering a Soup & Sandwich or Soup & Salad combination for $23.50, available Monday through Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Guests can choose between the restaurant’s classic Onion Soup Gratinée or Soup du Jour, paired with menu favorites like the Burger Josephine with gruyère, a Brie Grilled Cheese with apple and fig jam, Croque Madame, French Dip, or Fried Chicken Cordon Bleu. Salad options include Endive and Beets with roquefort and walnuts, Lyonnaise with lardons and poached egg, and Salade Josephine with goat cheese and sherry vinaigrette. The new special delivers polished French comfort at an approachable midday price; josephineoldtown.comChef Update - John Cummings at The Wine Kitchen Leesburg: The Wine Kitchen in Leesburg has named John Cummings as its new Executive Chef, ushering in a new chapter for the longtime downtown wine bar. A Leesburg native, Cummings first joined the restaurant in 2015 and most recently served as sous chef before stepping into the executive role in early 2026. He succeeds Tim Rowley, who led the kitchen for more than a decade and will now transition into a new role as Comptroller for Eat Drink Simply Group, overseeing financial operations across its restaurant portfolio. Under Cummings’ leadership, guests can expect the seasonal, locally sourced approach The Wine Kitchen is known for; thewinekitchen.comOnly 25 Seats: Chef Carlos Delgado, 2025 James Beard Award winner for Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic, will open Maru San on February 20, bringing D.C.’s only Nikkei-focused restaurant to a 25-seat, counter-only space near Eastern Market. Created alongside Chef Simon Lam, the concept centers on hand rolls and aims to showcase Nikkei cuisine as its own category—blending Peruvian ingredients with Japanese techniques. Maru San will offer both quick-service lunch and dinner with cigar-shaped hand rolls, premium nori, house-fermented sauces, and dry-aged fish, as well as a once-nightly 10+ course “Maru Experience” for just four guests. The intimate space features handmade ceramics from Peru and Japan and a hand-painted octopus mural overhead, underscoring the restaurant’s cross-cultural roots and craftsmanship; marusandc.comThe Cumberland Valley Coffee & Chocolate Trail Returns: The Cumberland Valley Coffee & Chocolate Trail is back with a nostalgic Friends-inspired theme, running from January 28 through May 11. Using a free digital passport, participants can explore nearly 30 cafés, chocolatiers, and sweet spots throughout the Cumberland Valley, checking in to earn points, prizes, exclusive discounts, and special offers along the way. This year’s trail includes locations such as King & Saint, Denim Coffee, Helena’s Chocolate Café & Creperie, Mummert Chocolates, The Cracked Pot Coffee Shop, and many more. The trail officially kicks off on January 28, with a launch event at King & Saint Café in Shippensburg at 9:00 a.m., where early passport holders can enjoy complimentary coffee and a pastry while supplies last; Click here for more info.If It Walks Like A Duck: Mallard has unveiled a new seasonal menu that leans into the spirit of Southern hospitality and shared dining. Led by Chef Hamilton Johnson, the 14th Street restaurant’s refreshed offerings highlight seasonal ingredients, bold flavors, and thoughtful technique, with dishes designed to be passed around the table and enjoyed communally. The new menu continues Mallard’s focus on gathering, comfort, and Southern-inspired cooking rooted in tradition; mallarddc.com

March is Women’s History Month, and International Women’s Day (March 8) gives us even more reason to raise a glass to the women shaping how we eat, drink, and gather in the DMV. March is filled with chef-driven dinners and winemaker tastings, panels, talks, and pop-up collabs across DC, Maryland, and Virginia all are celebrating the women leading in hospitality. Of course, here at TheListAreYouOnIt.com we are spotlighting all the events that celebrate women and their work in the hospitality industry, because these stories deserve the stage (and a packed room). Find it all here in our events calendar. 

Sweater weather, meet shaker season. As temperatures continue to drop, the DMV’s bars are leaning into winter mode with warming spices and cocktails built for long, cozy nights. We’ve rounded up the most sip-worthy drinks shaking (and stirring) the season.Cozy up fireside - see the best spots, here.Love an igloo moment? Duck into these winter activations here.Looking for this week’s best food? Find it here.MARK YOUR CALENDAR Supra Georgian Wine Dinner: Supra has a new Georgian Wine Dinner, Sunday, March 22, in partnership with DC’s Georgian Wine House. Gvantsa Abuladze (Baia’s/Gvantsa’s Wines; Imereti reg.) and Giorgi ‘Gogi’ Dakishvili (Orgo, Dakishvili Family Vineyards; Kakheti reg.) are legends in Georgia, with unique approaches to wine and winemaking. Attendees will meet the winemakers and hear their stories along with a variety of their wines, including reds, whites, sparkling, and – of course – amber. Get your tickets here. Napa Valley Barrel Auction: The Napa Valley Barrel Auction takes place Friday, June 5, 2026, at the newly reimagined Robert Mondavi Winery, opening in May. Featuring more than 100 participating vintners, the Barrel Auction brings together wine enthusiasts and winemakers for a day of tasting wine directly from the barrel and bidding on lots. More info here. Smithsonian Museum of American History Annual Wine Dinner: The Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History is hosting the 2026 Winemakers’ Dinner—a signature evening that brings together visionary vintners, culinary leaders, and supporters of the Museum to celebrate American wine, food, and history. In 2026, as the nation marks the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the Winemakers' Dinner on April 14, will be one of the Museum's most significant events in this landmark year. The dinner marks the 50th anniversary of the Judgment of Paris—the 1976 blind tasting that stunned the wine world when American wines placed ahead of France’s most celebrated Bordeaux and Burgundy. Get your tickets here. Blue Duck Tavern Anniversary:  Blue Duck Tavern will toast 20 years in the nation’s capital as one of the city’s most iconic restaurants in June 2026. To honor this monumental occasion, nationally recognized chefs, who formerly spearheaded Blue Duck Tavern, will return to prepare their signature dishes for a special dinner gathering accompanied by merrymaking over 2006 vintages from Blue Duck Tavern's Sommelier selections. The five-course feast will take place on Wednesday, June 10, with a champagne reception and hors d'oeuvres at 6 p.m. blueducktavern.comNEW & NOTEWORTHY: Sisters Are Doing It for Themselves: Immigrant Food: Immigrant Food offers a flight of wines from all female producers and winemakers throughout March and Centrolina’s Chef Amy Brandwein participates in MITA’s “Culture Sunday” series (3/8). Plus, female owned-and-operated restaurants to visit this March include Lapis, Joon, Maison Bar à Vins, Pascual, Lutèce, Centrolina, Immigrant Food, and more. 1701 Pennsylvania Avenue; immigrantfood.comPikilia, Ouzo, & Amari (Happy Hour Alert):  Iron Gate has a new Pikilia Happy Hour. They have a traditional “Pikilia” platter nightly, including our favorite Greek snacks, for just $22. They're offering $10 classic cocktail riffs, $7 Ouzos and Amari, and an assortment of $12 Amaro Flights. 1734 N ST NW, WASHINGTON DC 20036; irongaterestaurantdc.comMartini Hour (Happy Hour Alert):  Elegancia has a new Martini Hour, a stylish and elevated take on the classic happy hour, celebrating the timeless cocktail through a Latin lens. From Tuesday through Friday, you can enjoy a curated selection of handcrafted martinis for $10 each, including the Mango Martini, the Espresso de Olla Martini, and a Classic Vodka or Gin Martini. 1280 4th St NE, Washington, DC 20002; Elegancia.comSisters Are Doing It for Themselves: Annabelle’s Alison Paige Sachs: This March, in honor of Women’s History Month, Annabelle in Kalorama is spotlighting women leaders in wine and spirits with a month-long, all-female by-the-glass program. Wine Director Alison Paige Sachs curated a global selection of wines made and/or owned by women from France, Argentina, Australia, Spain, Italy, and the U.S., including standout producers from Château La Freynelle, Vasse Felix, Susana Balbo Wines, Jansz Tasmania, and Canard-Duchêne.  2132 Florida Avenue, NW, 20008; annabelledc.comMixburgh Comes to Pittsburgh: MixBurgh brings together industry leaders, bar owners, and distillers with the goal of sharing Pittsburgh’s beverage scene with the world. This collective marks a shift from competitive to cooperative planning to champion high standards, community care, industry development and a shared pride in craft and city. Find out more information here. Thin Mints + Vino: Little Blackbird is having a monthly wine club, curated each month by General Manager & Wine Director Sara Peregoff. Available for pick-up after the first of each month, the Silver Membership is priced at $29 per month and includes one carefully curated bottle of either white or red wine selected by Peregoff.  3309 Connecticut Avenue, NW; Littleblackbird.comLunedì Aperitivo (Happy Hour Alert): Acqua Bistecca, Washington, D.C.’s Italian-inspired steakhouse at City Ridge, invites you to unwind with its signature Happy Hour experience. The curated menu offers a taste of Italy through refined small plates, vibrant cocktails, and approachable wines and beers. The drinks menu highlights house cocktails such as the Positano (mezcal, lime, raspberry-basil granita), the Atrani (tomato-washed gin, grapefruit, club soda), and the sparkling Amalfi (vodka, pear, lemon, prosecco), alongside $10 wines and $6 Peroni.  10 Ridge Square, City Ridge Development, Washington, D.C; aquabistecca.comNOT NEW, BUT NOTEWORTHY: Happy Hour Starts Late (Happy Hour Alert): Art DC’s reverse happy hour runs Monday through Saturday from 8:30 p.m. to close, featuring select sake ($10), beers ($8), wines ($10) and handcrafted cocktails ($14). Highlights include the Matcha Margarita, made with tequila blanco, matcha, lime and triple sec, and For Goodness’ Sake with Nigori sake, ginger syrup and fresh lime juice. 333 G St. NW, Washington, DC 20001; artdc.comJust Iced Tea Raises the Bar:  Just Ice Tea, known for Fair Trade teas, announced that it has raised $9 million in Series B Financing, further accelerating its national retail growth and product innovation, including new flavors: Watermelon Lime White Tea and Peach White Tea. The brand previously doubled its store presence in 2025 with a rollout into Target, CVS, Wegmans, and Harris Teeter. In 2025, Inc. Magazine named Just Ice Tea the nation’s fifth fastest-growing food and beverage brand and one of its Inc. 500 fastest-growing private companies overall. justicetea.comGetting Our Protein: Colada Shop is expanding its menu with the launch of three new protein smoothies, designed to fuel the day with flavor, balance, and a tropical twist. Each smoothie is made with plant-based protein and finished with coconut cream. Try the Cafecito Energize with Banana, cold brew, chocolate, almond milk, plant protein powder, and coconut cream. coladashop.comBloody Well Good: Motorkat's new Bloody Mary program asks you "Are You Going By land or by sea? The by land drink includes Pork Belly, Candied Bacon, Wagyu Wiener, Andouille. The by sea drink includes Fried Oyster, Jumbo Shrimp, Grilled Octopus. 6939 Laurel Ave, Silver Spring, MD; .motorkat.com 

St. Patrick’s Day in the DMV means skip the green beer (why?!) and lean into the good stuff, soda bread, corned beef, Guinness, Irish whiskey, and all the neighborhood celebrations that go with it. Parades, check.  Irish pub crawl, check. Delish dining? check. Too many ways to be Irish and we’ve rounded up all the St. Patrick’s Day happenings on our TheListAreYouOnIt.com calendar. Sláinte to finding your pot o’ gold.

Just when you thought we’d eaten our way through every Restaurant Week in the DMV, here comes Savor Bethesda, sliding into the calendar with perfect timing. Because let’s be honest: in this town, there’s always room for one more reason to go out to eat and especially when it involves great food at even better prices.Downtown Bethesda has quietly become one of the region’s most exciting dining neighborhoods. Walkable and packed with global flavors, it’s the kind of place where you can start with Ukrainian borscht, pivot to ramen, detour for tacos, and somehow still have room for dessert. It’s a true choose-your-own-adventure dining district, and Savor Bethesda Restaurant Week is the best reason to take it all for a spin.From February 19 through March 1, participating restaurants across downtown Bethesda are offering lunch, dinner, and special treat menus for $10, $20, and $35 for dine-in and take-out, including some insanely good deals that are hard to resist.Here are 10 spots you’ll want to bookmark during Savor Bethesda:-Aventino – Italian comfort by Chef Mikey Friedman-Gringos & Mariachis – Margaritas + Mexican staples-Guardado’s – Spanish tapas-Mon Ami Gabi – Recently renovated french bistro fave-Olazzo – A Bethesda classic-Pisco y Nazca – Peruvian eats & drinks-Planta – Plant-forward bites & big flavor-Ramen Menri – Deep bowls of noodles-Ruta Ukrainian Restaurant – Soul-warming Eastern European classics-The Salt Line – Chef Kyle Bailey brings the SeafoodAnd that’s just the beginning of Bethesda’s Restaurant Week roster.Savor Bethesda Restaurant Week is all about incredible food at incredible deals, and the full list of participating restaurants and menus is available at bethesda.org. 

TheListAreYouOnIt’s latest Theatre Guide rounds up what’s on stage across the region. Broadway favorites, touring productions, and bold originals — and you know we have smart pre-theatre dining picks near each venue. From black box gems to big-house blockbusters, the talent here is the real deal.Pro tip: Chasing post-show bites? Old Ebbitt Grill’s kitchen serves until 1 AM. Curtain down, forks up, people! Arena StageChez Joey: January 30–March 22Inherit the Wind: February 27-April 5 Where to EatDel Mar by Fabio TrabocchiLimaniMoonraker at the PendryPhilippe Chow Capital One HallTina - The Tina Turner Musical: March 20-22Meredith Wilson's The Music Man: May 29-31 Where to EatFlore Cafe ModanOmeteo Starr Hill BiergartenStellina PizzeriaWren   Dupont UndergroundEvery(body) Wants to Be a Showgirl: February 6 - March 1, 2026 Where to EatCasamaraChikoIrongatePizzeria Paradiso The Pembroke Folger TheatreAs You Like It: March 10–April 12 Where to EatChikoThe Duck and the PeachParaisoQuill and Crumb Ford’s Theatre1776: March 13-May 16 Where to EatJaleoMoon RabbitSuccotash PrimeThe Riggs Hotel National TheatreStereophonic: February 10 - March 1, 2026 Where to EatCafé du ParcOld Ebbitt GrillThe OccidentalVue Rooftop at Hotel Washington Olney TheatreLittle Miss Perfect: Through March 15Appropriate: March 12 - April 19Please Underestimate Me: Carla Hall Solo Show: June 26 & July 9  Where to EatBrew BellyOlney StationSalt and VineScratch Kitchen Round House Theatre~updated shows coming soon~ Where to EatAventinoBlack’s Bar and KitchenCubano’sThe Salt Line Signature Theatre~updated shows coming soon~ Where to EatCarlyleCorso ItalianOur Mom EugeniaStellina Pizzeria Shirlington Studio TheatreJonah – March 11 - April 19 Where to EatCork Wine Bar & MarketJane JaneLe DiplomateMallard Pearl Dive Oyster Palace Shakespeare Theatre Co.Hamnet - March 17-April 12 (Harman Hall)Eddie Izzards's Hamlet - March 22-April 5 (Klein Theater)  Where to EatOyamelTonariRasikaZaytinya Synetic Theater~updated shows coming soon~ Where to EatBar CollineBeauty Champagne and Sugar BoutiqueNi HaoWater Bar Theatre JDC Theater Talk with Holly Twyford — through May 4, 2026 (Mondays) Where to EatEttoIron GateHank’s Oyster BarMallard Warner Theatre ~updated shows coming soon~ Where to EatCentral Michel RichardOlio e PiùThe HamiltonThe Henri Woolly MammothTravesty by Sasha Velour - March 24-April 12 Where to EatCentrolinaLucky DangerRasika