Or at least, how I’m hoping to do Memorial Day Weekend if the weather cooperates. I mean, given this forecast, everybody should absolutely double check before heading out because Mother Nature seems determined to keep us guessing.Still, if the rain holds off, here’s how I’d happily spend the long weekend around the DMV:FRIDAY | LET THE LONG WEEKEND BEGINFirst stop? Jazz in the Garden at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden on Constitution Avenue NW in DC for the return of one of the city’s favorite summer traditions. This year’s theme is “American Sounds,” celebrating everything from Americana and Appalachian music to Creole jazz and contemporary sounds. If you scored lottery passes, amazing. If not, day-of passes are often available beginning at 5pm.From there, I’d head to Hi-Lawn atop Union Market in Northeast DC where their annual four-day Memorial Day Grill-Out Party kicks off Friday and runs through Monday. Think rooftop hot dogs, frozen cocktails, lawn games, DJs, music, retro coolers. Summer has arrived.If you’re looking for something more intimate and culinary driven, Chef Amy Brandwein’s Stela dinner inside the Chef’s Salon at Centrolina in CityCenterDC sounds extraordinary. This month’s concept, “Under the Blossoms,” is an Italian interpretation of Hanami with dishes like Mochi Gnocchi with Miso & Guanciale and Chazuke with Green Tea and Lacquered Salmon. It is exactly the kind of dinner that lingers in your brain long after the meal ends.SATURDAY | MARKETS, MUSIC & STREET FESTSSaturday morning I’m leaning fully into strawberry season at Moon Valley Farm in Woodsboro, Maryland. Their organic strawberry festival includes pick-your-own berries, local vendors, food trucks, and family-friendly activities. There's strawberry muffins and strawberry jam, just so you knowBack closer to home, the 2nd Annual Saint Owen’s Feast at Owen’s Tavern & Garden at Pike & Rose in North Bethesda sounds like exactly the kind of neighborhood party I love. Italian street food, spritzes, craft beer, music, outdoor games, and proceeds benefiting Manna Food Center.If the weather turns messy? I may pivot toward brunch and jazz at Oasis Sushi & The Listening Bar in Clarendon. Their new brunch menu debuts Memorial Day Weekend and, Japanese fried chicken and waffles alongside live jazz and espresso martinis sounds like an excellent rainy day backup plan..SUNDAY | BRUNCH, CRABS & A LITTLE INDULGENCEIt's Sunday but it feels like a Saturday, cause we have an extra day! I am deeply tempted by the Coffee Omakase at Jônt on 14th Street NW because if Chef Ryan Ratino wants to guide me through rare coffees paired with bites, I’m listening.After that? Maybe steamed crabs and Orange Crushes at Cowbell Seafood & Oyster in Northeast DC because Memorial Day Weekend without Maryland crab feels incorrect.And if I somehow still have energy left, I would absolutely end the evening at Little Blackbird in Chevy Chase DC, which is commemorating the 50th anniversary of the historic Judgment of Paris with special Napa wine pairings featuring Chateau Montelena and Stag’s Leap.MONDAY | ONE LAST LONG WEEKEND HURRAHBy Monday I’m fully embracing holiday mode.Lunch at Taquería Xochi in Navy Yard or National Landing for all-day Xochi Hour margaritas and tacos.I also love the idea of grabbing Little Engine’s Family Van takeout package in DC and heading to a park somewhere with friends and absolutely no agenda whatsoever.And if you are looking to end the long weekend with something special, Canton Disco is hosting a one-night-only collaboration dinner featuring Executive Chef Timothy Yu alongside Chef Khan Bataa of Fish Shop DC. The tasting menu includes optional wine pairings curated by Brent Kroll and sounds like the kind of dinner hospitality people will be talking about long after the holiday weekend ends. Very limited seating. Very worth looking into.And for those honoring the meaning behind the holiday, Roots Cafe and Timber Pizza in McLean are offering 50% off for veterans throughout the weekend, a thoughtful reminder of what Memorial Day is ultimately about.The beauty of Memorial Day Weekend in this area is that you can make it whatever you want it to be. A rooftop party. A jazz night. A wine dinner. A crab feast. A picnic. A slow brunch. A road trip for strawberries. Or simply a few days to gather around a table with people you love.Just maybe keep an umbrella nearby.

Why Jon Krinn Doesn’t Play by the Rules and Why It’s WorkingI have known Chef Jon Krinn for more than two decades, really since the earliest days of TheListAreYouOnIt.com, and watching his evolution as a chef and restaurateur has been one of the true pleasures of covering this industry.Long before “chef driven” became a marketing term and before every restaurant felt the pressure to build itself for algorithms and social media, Jon was consistently building something rooted in craft and instinct. He has always marched to the beat of his own drum and honestly, that may be exactly why his restaurants continue to resonate.Jon’s culinary path began at L’Academie de Cuisine under Michelin-starred Chef Gerard Pangaud before taking him to France where he worked alongside Alain Ducasse, Michel Rostang, and Stephane Raimbault. When he returned to the DC area in 2001, he helped redefine fine dining in Northern Virginia with 2941, earning three stars from The Washington Post and repeated recognition in Washingtonian’s Top 10 Restaurants.Now with Elyse, his intimate 30-seat fine dining restaurant, Jon has built something rare in today’s dining landscape. The menu changes monthly. Ingredients are sourced globally. There is virtually no active social media presence. And yet Elyse continues to thrive, recently earning a finalist nomination for the 2026 RAMMY Award for Formal Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year and standing as the only Virginia restaurant nominated in the category.Elyse feels almost radical in its confidence. The restaurant trusts the guest, word of mouth and perhaps most importantly, Jon trusts himself.I recently caught up with Jon to talk about building longevity in this industry, why he refuses to chase trends, how his travels and life with his wife Antonia Le influence the restaurant, and what it really means to create something lasting.TheList: You’ve built Elyse without a significant social media presence, with a menu that never sits still, and with sourcing that crosses continents. What were you protecting when you made those choices?JK: Artisan entrepreneurs create based on what genuinely moves them and hope it resonates with guests. If you’re a chairmaker who loves unique chairs, you hope they sell. Otherwise, eventually you start making standard chairs just to survive and making standard chairs is not very interesting.At this point in my career, I focus on what speaks to me through the opportunities life presents rather than trends or what experts say I should be doing. I change menus regularly because it excites my staff and me and that energy matters. My wife Antonia and I travel and cook together through our retreats, and those experiences naturally influence what appears at Elyse.Developing menus, pairings, and service alongside the team takes an enormous amount of time and honestly, that’s what really moves the needle for us. We also want Elyse to feel like a discovery, a place people tell their friends about. That feeling disappears if we are constantly broadcasting ourselves online. We are asking guests to trust us.TheList: The restaurant industry runs on trends. Ghost kitchens, fast casual pivots, influencer marketing. You’ve largely ignored all of it. What do operators get wrong when they chase the noise?JK: There’s no universal right or wrong, but operators absolutely have to be true to themselves and to the actual needs of their business. Otherwise people see through it immediately, especially in a small, personality-driven operation.If you are small, stay focused on what makes you special. Trying to be everything at once usually reads exactly that way. Everything has to align if you want the business to genuinely resonate. For Elyse, scaling aggressively and influencer marketing simply are not the right fit.TheList: A constantly changing menu sounds like a logistical nightmare for staffing, sourcing, and costs. How have you made that model sustainable and even successful?JK: I attract people who are energized by change because they see where my energy goes. I’m in the trenches with them.I always tell the staff that Elyse is not simply a restaurant. It is a school for all of us, myself included. For the people who work here, change is exciting. A lack of change would actually be the problem.The same goes for guests. They return because they trust whatever we are going to create next, even before they’ve seen the menu. Like-minded staff and like-minded guests create the perfect ecosystem.TheList: Elyse is the only Virginia restaurant nominated for a RAMMY Award for Formal Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year. What does that say to you about fine dining in this region?JK: If Virginia were part of the Michelin Guide, Northern Virginia would attract even more culinary talent because the clientele is already here.Elyse works because of the quality of what we offer and because there is a strong local dining community that truly values having a restaurant like this nearby. We do draw guests from over an hour away, which is gratifying, but ultimately if 90 percent of your support does not come from within 15 minutes, you are in trouble.What makes me especially proud is that we do this without tourist traffic. Our guests are people who work the next morning, who have families and commitments, and who still choose to spend an evening with us repeatedly at this level. That means everything to me.TheList: You’ve had a long career in this region’s restaurant scene. What separates operators who build something lasting from those who don’t?JK: The people around you determine everything. The support system around you influences perseverance, health, relationships, creativity, and whether your concept truly resonates.And one more thing. Don’t believe the hype. Stay focused and continue doing your best for the people in your circle.TheList: What would you tell a young restaurateur today who wants to do things their own way without shortcuts or chasing algorithms?JK: Know who you are and be honest about what kind of business you actually want to build.There is nothing wrong with growth or trends if they align with your vision. But if you spend too much time chasing what everyone else is doing, eventually you lose the thing that made your restaurant unique in the first place.Guests can feel authenticity. They can also feel when something is manufactured. The challenge is having the patience and confidence to trust your own voice long enough for other people to hear it too.

Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial kickoff to summer and the DMV is absolutely ready for it. From sprawling brunches and rosé-filled lunches to rooftop dinners, backyard-style cookouts, seafood feasts, live music, and festivals all across the region, there are plenty of ways to fill every minute of the long weekend. We’ve rounded up the best bites, sips, parties, and happenings around town. Consider this your guide to eating, drinking, and celebrating your way through Memorial Day weekend in the DC area.

Summer Ready? The DMV certainly is. Farmers’ markets are starting to overflow, chefs are loading menus with peak-season produce, grills are firing up, and suddenly every meal feels like a good excuse to stay out a little longer. This is the season!  Tomato salads that actually taste like tomatoes, sweet corn in everything, berries on the menu and long lunches that somehow turn into dinner. No judgement. Honestly, this is one of the best times of year to eat around the region.Here at TheListAreYouOnIt.com, we’ve rounded up the can’t-miss bites, menu changes and dining experiences to help you eat your way through summer in the DMV.- Make a night of it with a show + a great pre or post-theatre meal with our theatre + dining guide here- This week’s list of The List’s favorite beverages is right here- From festivals and pop-ups to patio parties, restaurant events, and summer food happenings around the region, we’ve got those covered here- Looking for outdoor dining? Check out our Patio Pleasures and Up On The Roof roundups featuring patios, rooftops, courtyards, and outdoor sipping spots all across the DMV.So much more summer deliciousness below:MARK YOUR CALENDAR: Get Out of Town: Antigua & Barbuda’s annual Culinary Month returns this May with a full lineup of food-focused events, including Restaurant Week, the signature FAB Fest, and exclusive chef collaborations. The month-long celebration highlights Caribbean cuisine and talent, with guest chefs like Nina Compton and Tristen Epps-Long, plus experiences like “Eat Like a Local” and a finale beach party; antiguabarbudaculinarymonth.comMoon Valley Strawberry Festival: Moon Valley Farm will host its 2026 Strawberry Festival series in May, featuring the region’s only Certified Organic pick-your-own strawberries. Guests can harvest berries straight from the field while enjoying food trucks, local vendors, and family-friendly activities, with a special early-access day for CSA members on May 9; moonvalleyfarm.netSmithsonian Cooking Up History: Registration is now open for a free May 22 cooking demonstration at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History featuring award-winning Italian cooking teacher Giuliano Hazan. Hazan will prepare traditional zabaglione while sharing stories tied to his mother, Marcella Hazan—widely considered the godmother of Italian cooking in America; americanhistory.si.eduSt Owen’s Feast: Owen’s Tavern & Garden and Caruso’s Grocery Pike & Rose are teaming up again for the 2nd annual Saint Owen’s Feast on May 23, an Italian-style street fair packed with food, drinks, and family-friendly fun. Expect Italian street food favorites, seasonal spritzes, rare craft beers, live music, outdoor games, and more—all with free admission and raffle proceeds benefiting Manna Food Center; owenstavern.comJose Andres at Lincoln Theatre: Chef José Andrés is taking his newest cookbook, Spain My Way, on the road with a live immersive event at the Palazzo Theatre presented by Capital One. Guests can expect stories behind the recipes, live cooking moments, music, and the signature energy that has made José one of the culinary world’s most beloved personalities—all inspired by the flavors and spirit of Spain; joseandres.comService & Sacrifice: The DC chapter of Les Dames d'Escoffier International hosts a virtual panel on May 28 exploring the realities of balancing motherhood and careers in hospitality. Moderated by Avery Meetre, the conversation features leaders including Kerry Brodie, Britney Brown-Chamberlain, Leah Culley, and Johanna Hellrigl discussing resilience, flexibility, and the future of caregiving in the industry; lesdamesdc.orgBlue 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.comKeg Hunt: Come take part in a multicity craft beer scavenger hunt hosted by ChurchKey, Rustico, and Neighborhood Restaurant Group. From Thursday, June 4th - Sunday, June 7th, visit up to 8 participating locations to discover secret beers and win prizes, including 2 VIP tickets to Snallygaster; churchkeydc.comFood & Friends: Food & Friends hosts its 33rd annual Chef’s Best on June 8 at the Marriott Marquis, bringing together 30+ top regional chefs for tastings, cocktails, and a live auction. Led by Chef Mauricio Chirinos, the evening supports the organization’s mission to provide medically tailored meals to those living with chronic illness, with a goal to raise $1 million; foodandfriends.orgDinner with Michael Twitty: The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown will host an intimate June 11 dinner experience with James Beard Award-winning culinary historian Michael W. Twitty on the eve of the Virginia Declaration of Rights’ 250th anniversary. The evening blends conversation, history, and a multi-course menu inspired by Twitty’s acclaimed cookbooks, exploring African American heritage, Southern foodways, and the role of community around the table; jyfmuseums.orgDame’s Table: Hosted by Les Dames d'Escoffier Washington DC Chapter, this lively tasting event returns June 11 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m.) at Whittemore House. Guests can explore chef-driven food and wine pairings from top local talent, plus a silent auction featuring unique culinary experiences—all supporting grants and scholarships for the next generation of women in food; lesdamesdc.orgWorld Cup of Wine: Lulu’s Winegarden is hosting a global wine tasting party on June 14 featuring 25+ wines from a dozen wine-producing countries, paired with bottomless breakfast tacos and soccer matches airing throughout the space. The interactive tasting includes walkaround pours, discounted take-home bottles, and two afternoon sessions designed for wine lovers of every level; luluswinegarden.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.Family Reunion: Chef Kwame Onwuachi’s acclaimed culinary festival returns August 20–23 at Salamander Middleburg with its 2026 theme, “Folklore: A History of Storytelling.” The multi-day event brings together top chefs, panels, workshops, and immersive dining experiences celebrating Black and Brown contributions to food and culture, with tickets and packages now available; salamanderhotels.com/experience/family-reunionYottem Ottolenghi at Sixth & I: Celebrated chef and author Yotam Ottolenghi will appear at Sixth & I on October 8 at 7:00 p.m., discussing his latest cookbook Simple Too. In conversation, Ottolenghi will explore his philosophy of bold, approachable cooking and share recipes designed to make flavorful meals feel effortless; sixthandi.orgNEW & NOTEWORTHY: The Salty Donut x Lyre’s Collab: The Salty Donut and Lyre’s Non-Alcoholic are partnering on a limited-time summer collaboration running May 22–29, featuring 2 strawberry-forward treats inspired by non-alcoholic rosé. Highlights include a strawberry rosé cake donut and a rosé & matcha spritz made with Lyre’s Sparkling Rosé, available for one week only at participating locations nationwide; saltydonut.comA Big Brisket Burger: Celebrate National Burger Month and National Brisket Day with 2Fifty’s limited-time Brisket Burger, made with a blend of American Wagyu and prime brisket smoked over white oak and seared to finish. Topped with Swiss cheese, curry sauce, beef-tallow caramelized onions, and pickles on a DC Lyon Bakery bun, it’s a smoky, over-the-top take on the classic burger; 2fiftybbq.comListen to This (Brunch Alert): Oasis is debuting a new weekend brunch, pairing Japanese-inspired dishes with its signature audiophile atmosphere in Clarendon. Highlights include truffle avocado toast with sashimi, smoked salmon crepes, karaage chicken and waffles, and matcha cream crepes, alongside yuzu mimosas, sake flights, and espresso martinis. Sundays add live jazz from 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., kicking off May 24 with guitarist Alejandro Villarreal, turning the patio and listening bar into a laid-back brunch destination for music lovers and weekend diners alike; oasisthelisteningbar.comAla Carte at Oyster Oyster: As it approaches its five-year anniversary, Michelin-starred Oyster Oyster is introducing its first-ever à la carte menu for walk-in guests on Wednesdays and Thursdays, featuring frequently rotating seasonal dishes from James Beard Award-winning Chef Rob Rubba; oysteroysterdc.comLola’s Halo Halo (AAPI Month Alert): To close out AAPI Month, Fish Shop is serving Lola’s Halo Halo, a nostalgic Filipino shaved ice dessert inspired by Chef Ria Montes’ childhood summers with her grandmother in Queens. Available May 15 through 31, the colorful treat layers young coconut, sweet red beans, housemade leche flan, and ube over condensed milk shaved ice for a refreshing taste of Filipino tradition; fishshopdc.comWellies for Everyone: Gordon Ramsay Restaurants are rolling out limited-time Beef Wellington-inspired specials starting May 28 for National Burger Day. The lineup includes a Wellington Burger stacked with mushroom duxelles, crispy prosciutto, and gravy mayo, plus a Wellington Pizza topped with bresaola, truffle béchamel, and rich savory flavors inspired by Ramsay’s iconic signature dish; gordonramsayrestaurants.comUchi Uchi Coo: The nationally acclaimed sushi destination from James Beard Award-winning Chef Tyson Cole is now open in downtown DC, bringing its signature blend of Japanese technique and global flavors to the city for the first time. Led locally by Chef Rob Drennan, Uchi offers creative sushi, hot and cold tastings, omakase experiences, and a popular happy hour—all served with the restaurant’s signature hospitality-driven approach; uchi.uchirestaurants.comYala x Levain = OMG: Levain Bakery Georgetown and Bethesda are teaming up with Yala Greek Ice Cream for a limited-time summer collaboration running through October. Guests can mix and match Levain’s iconic cookies with Yala’s Greek ice cream in the form of ice cream sandwiches, affogatos, floats, and cookies à la mode—with more pop-ups and special events planned throughout the season; levainbakery.comMudbugs!: Bayou Bakery Coffee Bar & Eatery: Chef David Guas is bringing back his annual Crawfish Boils on May 23 and June 13, flying in fresh Louisiana crawfish for an afternoon of true New Orleans-style feasting. Guests can dine in on crawfish platters with all the fixin’s, grab a “Boil in a Bucket To-Geaux,” or go big with the new Bayou Bargain Bundle packed with crawfish, cornbread, muff-a-lotta wedges, beans & rice, and beignets for the whole crew. Frozen Hurricanes, Abita beer buckets, and bottled New Orleans cocktails round out the party; bayoubakeryva.comBully For You (Brunch / Lunch Alert): Bully is bringing the Spanish tradition of Menú del Día to DC with a daily multi-course lunch experience for $28.00. Served Monday through Friday, the rotating menu includes a first course, seasonal main, dessert, and a complimentary bite to start. Brunch is also served on Saturdays and Sundays featuring Spanish-style cuisine; bullywdc.com#Trending: Soft-serve margaritas are having a moment, and Xochi is bringing the trend to DC with its frozen twist on the classic. Pair it with the new Sinaloa Dog—a bacon-wrapped street-style hot dog topped with sautéed onions and peppers—for the ultimate summer-ready combo; taqueriaxochi.comSpring Omakase: Nobu DC is offering a limited-time spring tasting menu through June 16, priced at $145.00 per person. The omakase-style experience features seasonal highlights like oyster with ume salsa, beef tenderloin with ponzu, and strawberry lychee panna cotta, alongside chef-selected sushi and sashimi; noburestaurants.comRagu 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.com NOT NEW, BUT NOTEWORTHY:Brunch Bistecca (Brunch Alert): Acqua Bistecca debuts weekend brunch starting May 10 with an Italian-inspired menu built for lingering over. Highlights include lemon ricotta pancakes, Maryland blue crab crespelle, and tableside tiramisu toast, alongside interactive cocktails like build-your-own spritzes and customizable Bloody Marys; acquabistecca.comYou Had Us at Cardamom Coffee Cake [Brunch Alert]: Chef Lindsey Flowers has launched a new Sunday brunch menu at Namak, blending Eastern Mediterranean flavors with playful brunch dishes like strawberry-rose French toast, cardamom coffee cake, and a sujuk egg-and-cheese sandwich. Guests can also dig into mezze favorites, kebabs, and lamb smashburgers while sipping cocktails like the za’atar-rimmed “Bloody Maryam” or exploring General Manager Dhiandra Olson’s eclectic wine selections; namak-dc.comPasta Pastabilities: Chefs Jamie Leeds and Darren Norris have officially opened Hank’s Pasta Bar above Hank’s Oyster Bar in Old Town Alexandria, blending customizable pasta bowls with a relaxed trattoria atmosphere. Guests can mix and match housemade sauces, artisanal pastas, proteins, and toppings, alongside signature dishes like rigatoni bolognese and fusilli pesto. The new dine-in concept also features cocktails, Italian wines, and opening week perks; hankspastabar.comNew, The Boulevard: Opening in the former Wilson Hardware space, The Boulevard blends modern American and Asian fusion with a nightlife edge. The kitchen—led by Chefs Homero González and Bayron Navarro with consulting from Chef Juan “Nacho” Olivera—serves dishes like lamb bao sliders, king salmon tiradito, sushi, and spicy ceviche. Upstairs, the Solset rooftop delivers cocktails from Glendon Hartley alongside DJs spinning house and down-tempo beats, making it as much a late-night destination as it is a dinner spot; boulevardva.comGranchi Dal Guscio Morbido: Tarì Trattoria is welcoming soft shell crab season with limited-time dishes inspired by the Amalfi Coast. Highlights include sautéed soft shell crabs with saffron aioli, cherry tomato salad, and fregola, plus tonnarelli pasta with soft shell crab and a light peperoncino; tari-trattoriadc.comSoft Serve Collab: A new limited-time collaboration between José Andrés Foods and Dolcezza offers 2 Spain-inspired soft serve sundaes from now until May 10. Highlights include a Basque Cheesecake Sundae with goat cheese, honey, and black pepper, and an Olive Oil Sundae made with Arbequina EVOO and sea salt. Available at select Dolcezza locations and José Andrés restaurants.; dolcezzagelato.comJalapeño SMASH: In honor of National Burger Month, DaBo Burger is serving up The Jalapeño Smash—a limited-time burger from Chef Elias Taddesse featuring a jalapeño-smashed patty, pepperjack cheese, charred tomato salsa, and lemon thyme aioli. Available all May at the Bridge District location, it pairs perfectly with Atlas Brew Works beers, including the award-winning Bullpen Pilsner; daboburger.comCrab & Crush: Crab season starts now with Cowbell’s new “Crab & Crush” nights, featuring prepaid seatings at 5:30 and 7:45 p.m. Each reservation includes a 2-hour table and a first round of steamed blue crabs, plus orange crushes, $5.00 Natty Bohs, and the full menu; cowbellseafood.comSunday Family Dinner: Caruso’s Grocery is launching a new Sunday Family Dinner series, offering a 3-course Italian-American prix-fixe menu for $35.00 per person every Sunday from 4:00 to 9:00 p.m. Guests can mix and match favorites like garlic bread quattro formaggi, chicken parm, penne vodka, and classic desserts—bringing a cozy, family-style vibe to the table; carusosgrocery.comBurrito Pop Up: Michelin Bib Gourmand spot Amparo Fondita is hosting a weekday lunch pop-up from Chef Christian Irabién’s upcoming concept El Gabacho, running through August 14. The takeout-focused menu features handmade flour tortilla burritos filled with bold options like chile colorado, pollo chipotle, and chile relleno—offering a fast, flavor-packed preview of what’s to come; amparofondita.com

Summer drinking season in the DMV looks a little different than the rest of the year. Wine lists get lighter and colder, spritzes return to every cocktail menu in town, frozen drinks make their comeback, and bartenders start leaning into seasonal ingredients like berries and herbs and tomatoes from local farms. Even beer gardens and breweries shift into warm-weather mode with seasonal pours and outdoor events.Here at TheListAreYouOnIt.com, we’ve rounded up all the can’t-miss cocktails, happy hours and summer sipping events happening around the DMV right now.- Make a night of it with a show + a great pre or post-theatre cocktail or dinner with our theatre + dining guide (here)- This week’s list of The List’s favorite food finds is right here- From cocktail pop-ups and wine tastings to brewery events + summer beverage happenings around the region, we’ve got those covered here-You don’t need an excuse to visit a woman-owned business or celebrate women history month…here’s the list.- Looking for outdoor sipping season? Check out our Patio Pleasures + Up On The Roof roundups featuring patios, rooftops, courtyards & outdoor cocktail spots all across the DMV.So much more glass-raising goodness below:MARK YOUR CALENDAR 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. Six at Six at Hay-Adams: Six at Six,” a new guided cocktail hour at Off The Record, the hotel’s celebrated bar just steps from Lafayette Square. Designed for guests who enjoy taking a closer look at what’s in the glass, Six at Six offers an intimate, seated experience at The Bench, the bar’s most sought-after seating area. Held from 6-7 pm on the last Tuesday of each month, Six at Six welcomes only six guests for an hour that feels unhurried, interactive, and quietly structured. May 26, 2026 – Tequila & Mezcal – an agave-focused hour ($90 per person); June 30, 2026 – Gin & Jun – a bright, botanical exploration ($80 per person); July 28, 2026 – Vodka & Bubbles – light, celebratory cocktails that sparkle ($90 USD per person)Foam 10th Anniversary Party: Rustico is celebrating Foam Brewers’ 10th anniversary on May 29 with 6 special anniversary releases on draft, including beers from the brewery’s “Some Things Last a Long Time” series. Expect sought-after hazy IPAs, saisons, lagers, and more from the Vermont cult-favorite brewery—available à la carte with no cover charge; rusticorestaurant.comBlue 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.comKeg Hunt: Come take part in a multicity craft beer scavenger hunt hosted by ChurchKey, Rustico, and Neighborhood Restaurant Group. From Thursday, June 4th - Sunday, June 7th, visit up to 8 participating locations to discover secret beers and win prizes, including 2 VIP tickets to Snallygaster. Register here. Rosé at the Rosewood: Join the Rosewood Hotel in Georgetown for an afternoon of rosé and Champagne, with sweeping views of the Potomac as we celebrate the start of summer and National Rosé Day in style on June 13th. Enjoy wines like 2023 Schramsberg Brut Rosé, California; Champagne Marguet, Shaman 20 Rosé Grand Cru; 2012 Champagne Louis Roederer Brut Rosé; 2024 Clos Cibonne 'Tradition,' Provence. Get tickets here. Lulu’s Winegarden World Cup of Wine: World Cup of Wine: Lulu’s Winegarden is hosting a global wine tasting party on June 14 featuring 25+ wines from a dozen wine-producing countries, paired with bottomless breakfast tacos and soccer matches airing throughout the space. The interactive tasting includes walkaround pours, discounted take-home bottles, and two afternoon sessions designed for wine lovers of every level; luluswinegarden.comNEW & NOTEWORTHY: Who Has The Best Bubbles?: Nominations are now open for the 5th annual Top 10 Bars and Restaurants for Enjoying Champagne list, spotlighting standout venues across the U.S. that celebrate Champagne through exceptional wine programs, educational experiences, and creative events. Nominations close July 31, with the final honorees announced ahead of Champagne Day on October 23; champagne.fr/enVietnamese Cocktails, Reimagined: NUE Elegantly Vietnamese is expanding its signature cocktail menu with two new seasonal additions. The modern Vietnamese restaurant in Falls Church is now offering the Amber Skies, a rich, aromatic and refined cocktail mixed with vanilla cream clarified Vietnamese coffee, Licor 43, and fat washed coffee vodka, alongside the floral, creamy and herbaceous Garden in the Sky made with a fig and laurel gin, rice, coconut, and pear. 944 W Broad St, Falls Church, VA 22046; nuevietnamese.comDown on the Boulevard: The Boulevard blends modern American dining with Asian fusion, a rooftop bar, and weekend DJs. Expect dishes like lamb slider bao buns, king salmon tiradito with yuzu leche de tigre, cavatelli with king mushrooms, sushi, spicy salmon ceviche, etc. Upstairs, Solset rooftop offers lighter bites and drinks by Glendon Hartley (Service Bar, Amazonia) ranging from caviar-paired Gibsons to a nostalgic “Breakfast Fizz.” DJs spin house and down-tempo beats. 2915 Wilson Boulevard Arlington VA 22201; boulevardva.comFlora Garden Pop Up at Lulu’s: Lulu’s Winegarden will soon celebrate DC’s long-awaited spring season with the return of its popular “Flora Garden” – a springtime pop-up bringing floral cocktails and petaled patios to the U Street bar. Lulu’s is showcasing a bouquet of spring flavors and spirits in several creative floral cocktails, including the edible flower-topped First Bloom with botanically-driven Citadelle Jardin D'ete gin, elderflower and Aperol; a slightly-savory garden margarita infused with black pepper tequila; a shiso-pineapple crush; a spicy-citrusy sour with yuzu and jalapeno aguardiente; and a bubbly Chandon Hugo Spritz. 1940 11th Street NW, Washington, DC 20001; luluswinegarden.comNOT NEW, BUT NOTEWORTHY: Rose Season: For its newly released 2025 vintage, Miraval announces its very first international collaboration, and it could only ever have been with Cannes. At the heart of this rendez-vous is an exclusive gift set — not merely a bottle of wine, but a symbol. A talisman of what becomes possible when the right minds, in the right place, reach for something greater than the sum of their parts. The Miraval Rosé 2025 is, by every measure, a vintage that earns its mythology. Born of the intense heat of Cannes summer days and the whispered coolness that descends with a Provençal evening, it captures a duality that feels, itself, almost cinematic.New Orleans Coffee in Maryland: PJ's Coffee has opened a new location at 1703 Ritchie Station Court, Suite 100.The café sits in the Ritchie Station shopping center near Exit 13 off Interstate 495, close to Dave & Buster's, and offers a convenient drive-thru for commuters, students and nearby residents. Guests can enjoy PJ’s signature powdered-sugar-dusted beignets, seasonal Mardi Gras favorites such as the Frozen King Cake, Purple Energy and Carnival Latte, and staples including the Vienna Cold Creme and hot Café Au Lait.  pjscoffee.comTide Tiki PopUp: Hi-Tide Lounge’s Tiki Bar Pop-Up is officially open and it's bringing a vibrant, tropical escape to Old Town Alexandria for a limited time.Running now through August 31, the pop-up transforms the space with festive Tiki décor, island-inspired cocktails, and a specialty menu. On the drinks side, the menu leans into bold, tropical flavors with cocktails like the Mai Tide (a bright rum blend with orgeat and citrus), Smuggler’s Mist (mezcal with coconut cream and pineapple), and Saturn’s Daughter (gin with passion fruit and falernum), plus large-format punch bowls designed for groups, and plenty of zero proof options. 101 N Union St Unit B, Alexandria, VA 22314; volasdockside.comIf I Ever Get Out Of Here: Kathmandu is a Himalayan-inspired cocktail bar from restaurateur Dipesh Acharya that blends the energy of Nepal’s capital with DC’s evolving nightlife scene.Head Bartender José Cox, the concept highlights house-made cordials, infusions, and ingredients sourced directly from Nepal, with signature drinks like a clarified Mango Lassi cocktail, a spiced Himalayan Old Fashioned, and a Timur Collins. Chef Shiva Nepal's focused menu of elevated Nepali tapas complements the bar. 1342 U Street NW; kathmandu-dc.comForget Breakfast, Cocktails at Tiffany’s: Tiffany’s Bar & Bistro recently introduced a wide selection of spring-inspired cocktails. Cocktail enthusiasts can enjoy playful drinks such as the Lion’s Bite stirred with cognac, strawberry, almond syrup, Campari, and San Pellegrino Limonata; the Galata Sunset made with vodka, mastiha (a traditional Greek liqueur made from mastic trees grown on the island of Chios), cucumber, basil, fresh lemon orange blossom, and prosecco; and the Summer Light crafted with chamomile bourbon, Heering cherry liqueur, fresh lime, and ginger beer. 709 H St NE, Washington, DC 20002; .tiffanysbistrobar.comThere is No Bottom (Brunch Alert): Bar Chinois, the French-Chinese fusion restaurant, put a truly signature spin on their seasonal cocktail menu for spring with a special bartender showcase. Selections include the Bijou de Gansu, with rye whiskey, toasted rhubarb, strawberry-cinnamon honey and soda, the Citrus Paradis with Cazadores Blanco Tequila, grapefruit, basil, orange blossom and Stiegl Radler, and the Le Rubis with Citadelle Rouge Gin, Strega, blueberry, honey and lemon. 455 Eye Street, NW; barchinoisdc.com

DC is deep in its martini era right now. No longer something reserved for the Rat Pack, the power lunch crowd, or your grandparents’ dinner party. Suddenly every bar and restaurant in town seems to have a chilled glass at the ready, a signature olive situation, or an entire menu dedicated to the iconic cocktail. Some spots are going luxe and spirit-forward, others are building full-on Martini Hours around the ritual of it all. Dirty, icy, shaken, stirred — the martini is absolutely having a moment. Here are a few of the newest programs shaking things up around town before we get into where to score stellar sips for under $10.Listen to Nycci talk favorite martinis here.New & Need-To-Know-Elegancia has launched a Martini Hour Tuesday through Friday featuring $10 handcrafted martinis including a Mango Martini, Espresso de Olla Martini, and classic vodka or gin martinis. Stylish happy hour energy with a tropical twist.-At Lucy, the laid-back Italian cocktail bar and trattoria has expanded its cocktail menu with an entire lineup of martini riffs and customizable creations. Expect drinks like the Rive Gauche with Citadelle gin and St. Germain, the Highland Whisper with Tanqueray No. 10 and Kilchoman Scotch, plus bespoke martinis tailored to your taste. Pro-tip: the kitchen is spearheaded by Giulio Adriani, a five-time World Champion pizzaiolo. Order the pizza.-Kayu, the acclaimed modern Filipino restaurant in Dupont Circle from chef Paolo Dungca, is serving one of the city’s most fun bar specials: the “Adult Jolly Meal.” A Wagyu burger, caviar-topped fries, and a mini martini for $25. Luxe and playful.-At Minetta Tavern DC, the Union Market outpost of Keith McNally’s famed French-American steakhouse has launched Martini Hour with proper martinis and seven variations for $10 at the bar Sunday through Thursday from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Pair them with bites and linger a while.-Your Only Friend has brought back Martini May Social Club with cold martinis, olive sidecars, Caesar salads, and fried mozzarella sticks. It’s retro cocktail hour energy.-And then there’s Ox & Olive, chef Ryan Ratino’s new Georgetown restaurant, diving headfirst into martini culture with a cocktail program from Will Patton of Press Club. The menu explores the evolution of the martini through five cocktails, from a Martinez to a Manhattan, alongside signature dirty and classic martinis. Pro-Tip: There’s also a weekday happy hour version for $16.Where Else To Go For Martini Deals- All-Purpose in Shaw has $5 Martini Mondays and $6 martinis Tuesday through Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. at the bar.-Ama offers $6 martinis daily from 3 to 6 p.m. at the bar.-At Annie’s Paramount Steakhouse, discounted martinis are available upstairs Thursday through Saturday from 4 to 7 p.m.- Aventino pours $7 dirty martinis daily from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the bar.- Bar Angie offers half-priced martinis during Martini Happy Hour daily from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.- At Corso Italian, you’ll find $9 martinis during daily Aperitivo Hour at the bar and $5 martinis all night on Tuesdays.- Cucina Morini has $7 martinis all night, every night in the lounge.- King Street Oyster Bar features location-specific martini specials across its DC, Virginia, and Maryland locations.- At Last Call, martinis are just $3 from 5 to 6 p.m. on weekdays and 1 to 2 p.m. on weekends.- Madhatter pours $5 martinis Fridays from 4 to 8 p.m.- Osteria Morini offers $7 martinis Monday through Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the bar.- At Pearl Dive Oyster Palace, $8 martinis are available Monday through Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m. and Fridays from 3 to 7 p.m. at the bar.- Pisco y Nazca Ceviche Gastrobar has $7 house martinis, including espresso martinis, during happy hour.- Queen’s English offers $8 martinis all night Tuesday through Thursday on the patio.- And Scarlet Oak serves $7 martinis Monday through Friday from 4 to 6 p.m.- Six Ways to Sunday offers $7 Martinis Tuesday through Friday from 4  to 6 p.m.

Summer has arrived, and with it, so many places to see and things to do. Restaurants and venues across the region are celebrating the season with activations perfect for longer days and warmer nights!The Great Outdoors:MoCA on the Move, Celebrating Spring Family Fun Series: The Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington hosts a spring family series each Sunday in Met Park with live music, lawn games, bubbles and hands-on art making activities guided by local artists. Free and open to the public. Sundays, through June 7 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. 1330 S Fair Street, Arlington, VA.Golden Triangle Outdoor Days: Farragut Square can be your go-to spot for fresh air, fun, and connection. Starting the second week in May, head to the park for a fun lineup of free weekly events designed to fit perfectly into your day. Grab your yoga mat for a healthy happy hour at Trifit every Tuesday through June 23, at 5:30 p.m. Led by CorePower Yoga, these outdoor yoga sessions are open to all skill levels. Check out Farragut Fun Days every Wednesday through June 24, 12:30–2:00 p.m. A variety of events will be hosted, including live entertainment, used book sales, lawn games, and even opportunities to meet and adopt furry friends. See all spring events here.  Toned-Up Tuesdays at City Center: Level up your spring fitness routine with complimentary outdoor yoga and sculpt classes led by Corepower Yoga every Tuesday from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. through July 28, 2026. more information here. What a Show:Bethesda Summer Concert Series: Every Friday this summer, from 6:00-8:00 p.m., head to the corner of Norfolk & St. Elmo Avenues to enjoy a free outdoor concert, and food and drinks from downtown Bethesda restaurants. Just like in previous years, adult beverages will be available for purchase from local restaurants, and can be enjoyed within the concert site. Want to know who else to expect this summer? See the full line-up here. Through June 26, 2026.Jazz @ Met: Back for another season, Jazz @ Met returns to Metropolitan Park with a free outdoor concert  series celebrating the energy of live jazz in the heart of National Landing. Hosted by the National Landing, Jazz @ Met continues every other Thursday through June 18 with a diverse lineup of local and  internationally influenced jazz artists. Enjoy live performances spanning New Orleans jazz, Brazilian rhythms, go-go inspired jazz, and acoustic  sets, all on the Central Green. Plus,  take part in hands-on art activities curated by artists from the Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington’s  Innovation Studio. Attendees are encouraged to stop by one of Met Park’s dining destinations for a bite  to eat before, during, or after the performances. For artist bios and more information, visit nationalanding.org/jazz The Square Rockville Summer Concert Series: Longer days, warm nights, and live music under the open sky—summer is officially sounding better. The Square Rockville has announced the 2026 Summer Concert Series, bringing a lineup of live performances to The Square all season long. Grab your lawn chairs, picnic blankets, and dancing shoes. Whether you’re planning a night out with friends, date night, or a family-friendly evening, these concerts are the perfect way to enjoy summer at The Square. Fridays, through September 11. For a full calendar, click here.  Springtime at Strathmore: Music Center at Strathmore presents internationally acclaimed performers in May and June, including Jason Mraz; Renée Fleming; Andrew Bird with the National Philharmonic (June 3 & June 4): Grammy-nominated violinist performs his acclaimed album The Mysterious Production of Eggs for its 20th anniversary with new orchestral arrangements; Cécile McLorin Salvant (June 11): Three-time Grammy-winning jazz vocalist blends jazz, folk, and Baroque influences in Book of Ayres; Patton Oswalt (June 20): Emmy- and Grammy-winning comedian debuts a night of sharp pop-cultural commentary; Straight No Chaser (June 23): Nine-voice a cappella group returns for a high-energy performance combining tight harmonies and humor; Jesse & Joy (June 24): Six-time Latin Grammy-winning duo blends Latin pop with folk and acoustic influences; Chris Botti (June 26): Grammy-winning trumpeter brings his lush jazz-pop sound with an all-star band. Strathmore’s late-spring lineup also highlights the diversity of creative expression in music, visual art, and performance, including the Intersections Exhibition at the Mansion (May 9–June 10); Bloom at Good Hope concerts featuring Silkbeat (May 9) and Christylez Bacon (June 13); Maryland Classic Youth Orchestras performances (May 13 & May 17); and a Sensory-Friendly Concert Hall Tour (May 16). Emerging and local talent also take center stage through theArtists in Residence program, including Juan Manú (May 13, 20 & 27) and Kanysha (June 10, 17 & 24), offering a mix of heritage, experimentation, and new musical voices.See all the shows coming to town in our Theater Roundup, here.  Let's All Go to the Drive-In:The Drive-In at Union Market: The Drive-In at Union Market is back for the 14th season. It’s the perfect blend of movies and munchies with amazing concessions. From street food to Michelin-starred fine dining, experience it all at Union Market District. Get tickets to watch from the comfort of your car or bring chairs and blankets for a cozy picnic-style setup in front of The Market. No tickets are needed to watch on Neal Place. Once a month through October. See full scheduleand purchase tickets here.Adams Morgan Movie Nights: A beloved community tradition, Adams Morgan Movie Nights brings neighbors together under the stars for free outdoor film screenings. Held seasonally at the soccer field at Marie Reed Recreation Center, the series features a curated lineup of nostalgic favorites, cult classics, and feel-good crowd-pleasers. Additionally, the Embassy of Australia will extend Movie Nights with an extra screening on Thursday, June 25, with additional activities for the younger set. Each screening begins after dark (approximately 20-30 min after sunset) and is free and open to the public. Bring a blanket, pick up a picnic dinner at an Adams Morgan restaurant, and enjoy a relaxing evening. Local restaurants often offer takeout specials to pair with your movie night, making it the perfect way to support small businesses while enjoying a night out. Alcohol and pets are not allowed on the field during the movie. Through July 2, 2026. More information here. Museum Visits:ChromaBloom: The Ballston BID has partnered with ARTECHOUSE Studio for ChromaBloom, an XR (Extended Reality) digital mural at Ballston Quarter. On view through June 1, the installation transforms a prominent public wall into a vibrant, interactive art experience, inviting residents, employees, and visitors to engage with the season in a new way. ChromaBloom reimagines a 10.7’ x 13.8’ wall into an experience that blends technology with the beauty and movement of the season. The artwork is powered by the ARTECHOUSE App and extends beyond the physical surface, revealing digital layers that appear when activated through the free app. ballstonva.org Making Their Mark: The National Museum of Women in the Arts is presenting Making Their Mark: Works from the Shah Garg Collection, on view through July 26. The major exhibition features 80 works by nearly 70 influential women artists spanning from 1946 to today, highlighting the powerful role women have played in shaping abstract art. Drawn from the Shah Garg Collection, the show includes painting, sculpture, textiles, ceramics, and mixed media works exploring themes of identity, form, and artistic innovation across generations; nmwa.orgJack Boul Exhibit at Park Hyatt: Park Hyatt Washington, D.C. is showing a special year-long exhibit featuring monotypes by artist Jack Boul. Jack Boul (1927-2024) was a painter, printmaker, and sculptor whose work can be found in the National Gallery of Art, the Smithsonian, the Phillips Collection, the Library of Congress, and many other public and private venues. Born in New York, Jack Boul spent most of his life in Washington, D.C., as an art professor at American University. He was among the founders of the Washington Studio School. This special collection is curated by his son, David Boul. parkhyattwashington.com Camouflage: Designed to Deceive: Explore the world of camouflage and deception in a new multi-sensory, immersive experience at The International Spy Museum. The special exhibition, Camouflage: Designed to Deceive, examines the fascinating history of camouflage and its many secret connections to espionage. From its origins in the natural world to its contemporary applications in the battlefield and beyond, the exhibit explores the impact of camouflage on covert operations and intelligence gathering throughout history. The exhibit spans the intersecting worlds of science, design, military and political history, art, fashion, and pop culture. Utilizing real stories, artifacts, and immersive media, visitors will get an up-close look at how concealment has influenced espionage throughout time and why it remains essential in today’s digital world of surveillance. Tickets are available now for $15. Visitors can also add the exhibition to general admission for just $13. spymuseum.org Blacklisted: An American Story: This exhibit explores the Hollywood blacklist and the federal government’s loyalty investigations that upended thousands of lives during the Red Scare. Through powerful personal stories, rare artifacts, and film clips, the exhibition reveals how fear, politics, and identity collided—and what was lost when dissent was silenced. From the late 1940s through the 1950s, all three branches of government sacrificed First Amendment rights in the name of security. Freedoms of speech, association, and assembly came under fire. Hundreds of people lost their jobs, thousands resigned under duress, and many more stood by quietly, afraid of repercussions for their real or imagined political participation. On loan from Jewish Museum Milwaukee, the exhibition incorporates film, archival material, oral histories, costume, and photography to examine the shifting definition of what it meant then—and what it means now—to be a patriotic American, and who gets to decide. simpletix.com Two Exhibits, One Conversation: The National Building Museum announces two major exhibitions that, for the first time, will be presented in conversation with one another, illuminating how architecture, education, and collaboration shaped Black American life and the nation’s shared history.  A Better Life for Their Children: Julius Rosenwald, Booker. T Washington and the 4,978 Schools that Changed America, photographs and stories by Andrew Feiler, and The Tuskegee Chapel: Paul Rudolph x Fry & Welch, curated by architect Helen Brown Bechtel, together reveal the built environment as a powerful force for dignity, aspiration, and community transformation.  Together, the exhibitions demonstrate how place becomes meaningful when animated by human intentions and collaboration. From the rural schoolhouses that transformed educational access across the segregated South to the rebuilt Tuskegee Chapel that embodied ambition and self-determination during the Civil Rights Movement, these projects show how communities shaped their futures through design, labor, and collective vision. In both the Rosenwald Schools and the Tuskegee Chapel, architecture is not a neutral container, but an active participant in history, shaped by the people who built it and shaping generations in turn. nbm.org Women United Exhibition at The Watergate Hotel: This spring, The Watergate Hotel highlights Women United, a global exhibition that brings together the work of contemporary women artists from around the world. The collective exhibition features artists Flávia Junqueira, Athena Anastasiou, Emilie Picard, Lesley Bodzy, and Ellen de Meijer, each presenting distinct creative perspectives and artistic styles. As part of the exhibition, Brazilian photographer and visual artist Flávia Junqueira will debut a special interactive installation inside The Next Whisky Bar. Known for her large-scale balloon installations staged in historically significant spaces, Junqueira’s work blends celebration with reflection, transforming environments into immersive visual experiences. For this installation, The Next Whisky Bar will be transformed into a vibrant setting filled with colorful balloons, inviting guests to step directly into the artwork, explore the space, and capture photos while reflecting on themes of memory, history, and transformation. Junqueira frequently draws inspiration from the visual world of childhood—balloons, soap bubbles, pinwheels, and merry-go-rounds—motifs that appear throughout her photography and installations. Through June 30, 2026; For more information, click here.   Museum of Illusions: Located in the heart of CityCenterDC, Museum of Illusions offers a visual, sensory, and educational experience that feels equally fun for kids, teens, parents, and adults. With more than 50 exhibits, it’s an easy indoor option for families looking for something engaging to do after camp or once the school day is done, especially since the museum stays open later than many traditional DC museums. It also works well for date nights or evening plans, given its central location near some of the city’s best food and drink destinations. For more information, click here.Capital Jewish Museum Anniversary: Celebrate the 150th anniversary of the historic synagogue at the heart of the Capital Jewish Museum. Uncover the history of the historic synagogue in a new permanent lobby installation, highlighting its dedication in 1876, its time as a commercial retail space, the 1960's effort to preserve and restore the building, and its three moves to avoid demolition. See guidebooks, artwork, and commemorative ephemera that reveal how Jewish Washingtonians marked America’s Centennial (1876), Sesquicentennial (1926) and Bicentennial (1976). Enjoy this rare opportunity to view “Freedom Road,” a 10x14-foot needlepoint tapestry created by the Washington Jewish community as part of the celebration of the American Bicentennial in 1976. Designed by artist Yankel Ginzburg, the piece depicts the parting of the Red Sea, celebrating the journey from bondage to freedom. Sixty-one crafters from across DC, Montgomery County, and Northern Virginia brought this vision to life. For more information, click here. Where Else You'll Find Us:Jeopardy Bar League Trivia at Water Park: Test your knowledge and compete with friends at Jeopardy! Bar League Trivia, the official interactive bar trivia experience inspired by America’s Favorite Quiz Show. Hosted live and designed for fast-paced fun, this weekly trivia night brings the excitement of the iconic game show into a social bar setting. Mondays at 7:00 p.m. Water Park | 1601 Crystal Dr, Arlington, VA.Sandbox VR: Sandbox is a futuristic VR experience for groups of up to six where you can see and physically interact with everyone inside, just like the real world. Inspired by Star Trek’s Holodeck, these exclusive worlds let you feel like you’re living inside a game or movie, and are built by EA, Sony, and Ubisoft veterans. Located in City Center DC; citycenterdc.com Horizon of Khufu: A Journey in Ancient Egypt: Explore one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World—an archaeological treasure trove and a monumental testament to Egyptian architectural genius. Embark on an immersive journey through space and time to explore Egypt's Giza Pyramid, the resting place of Pharaoh Khufu, constructed over 4,500 years ago in the 4th Dynasty and until now a forbidden realm to the public. This 45 minute VR experience allows visitors to physically move and interact within a shared virtual reality space, providing a deeply emotional and engaging dive into the heart of Egyptian culture. Ages 10 and up; 926 F Street NW; For more information, click here. Hershey Super Sweet Adventure: Embark on an interactive journey complete with games, active play and family-friendly moments designed to spark imagination and connection for candy lovers of all ages. Visitors will celebrate the perfect combination in Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, uncover the delight that wraps Hershey’s Kisses Milk Chocolates, master the art of the Twizzlers Twists, experience the bold flavors of Jolly Rancher candies and more. For its East Coast debut, the experience will feature never-before-seen activations including a playful celebration of Bubble Yum Bubble Gum and an all-new grand finale experience where guests can personalize their own Hershey’s Milk Chocolate bar wrapper with a selfie and other fun options. Tickets for Hershey Super Sweet Adventure will be available starting at $19.99 per person. HersheySuperSweetAdventure.com Cherry Blossom Daruma: Returning for its second year, the pink sphere—adorned with delicate blossom petals and suspended 10 feet above—transforms Anthem Row into a moment of spring beauty and renewal. Designed by multidisciplinary artist My Ly of My Ly Design, the sculpture takes the form of a Daruma—a traditional Japanese doll symbolizing perseverance, good luck, and goal-setting. As the new season begins, pause beneath the Cherry Blossom Daruma to snap photos, jot down your goals and wishes, and let the energy of spring inspire the year ahead. Make a wish as you click the camera, and welcome the season while exploring one of Downtown DC’s charming pedestrian corridors. On display through May 2026; 800 K Street NW; downtowndc.org  

When the weather turns warm in the DMV, we all suddenly start looking up. Rooftop season is officially here and whether it is cocktails at sunset, brunch with a breeze  or just an excuse to linger outside a little longer, there is no shortage of spots around town to do it.We’ve rounded up rooftop spots all across the DMV for all your sipping and dining while taking in the view. Honestly, there are a lot of them and we’ve done our best to get them all on this list. Not a fan of heights and more of a patio person? We’ve got you there too. Check out our Patio Pleasures roundup featuring all the courtyards, gardens, and sidewalk patios throughout the DMV. 12 Stories at the Intercontinental: 75 District Square SW; www.12storiesdc.com801: 801 Florida Avenue NW; 801dc.com Amazonia: 920 Blagden Alley NW; causadc.com ART DC: 333 G Street NW; artrooftops.comBalian Springs: 6432 General Green Way, Alexandria, VA; baliansprings.com Betsy: 514 8th Street SE (Back alley); thebetsyusa.com Solset Bar at the Boulevard: 2915 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington; www.solsetbar.comBuena Vida Gastrolounge: 2900 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington; buenavidagastrolounge.com Capitano: 975 7th Street SW; capitanodc.com Casamara: 1337 Connecticut Avenue NW; casamaradc.com Ciel Social Club: 601 K Street NW; cielsocialclub.com Colada Shop: multiple locations; coladashop.com CUT Above at The Rosewood: 1050 31st Street NW; rosewoodhotels.com Deck 11 at Yotel: 415 New Jersey Avenue NW; deck11rooftop.comThe Delegate: 901 L Street NW; thedelegatedc.com Hell's Kitchen: 652 Wharf Street SW; gordonramsayrestaurants.comHi-Lawn: 1309 5th Street NE; hilawndc.comHive Bar in The Hive Hotel: 2224 F Street NW; hotelhive.comHotel Heron: 415 New Jersey Avenue NW; hotelheron.comIvy City Smokehouse: 1356 Okie Street NE; ivycitysmokehouse.comJack Rose Dining Saloon: 2007 18th Street NW; jackrosediningsaloon.com La' Shukran: 417 Morse Street NE; lashukran.comLady Bird Rooftop Bar at Kimpton Banneker: 1315 16th Street NW; thebanneker.comLimani: 670 Wharf Street SW; limani.com/washingtonLost Society: 2001 14th Street NW; lostsociety-dc.com  Lucha Rosa at The Moxy: 1011 K Street NW; atlasrestaurantgroup.com/properties/lucha-rosa Madam’s Organ: 2461 18th Street NW; madamsorgan.comMoonraker at the Pendry: 655 Water Street SW; pendry.comO-Ku DC: 1274 5th Street NE; o-kusushi.com  Officina: 1120 Maine Avenue SW; officinadc.comThe Perch at The Watermark: Dog friendly; 1805 Capital One Drive, Tysons; capitalonecenter.com/the-perch Perry’s: 1811 Columbia Road NW; perrysam.com Realm Rooftop Bar & Lounge: 899 O Street NW; donahoe.comOver Under, The Rooftop DC: 476 K Street NW; therooftopdc.comThe Rooftop at The Graham: 1075 Thomas Jefferson Street NW; thegrahamgeorgetown.comSalazar: 1819 14th Street NW; salazardc.com  Sauf Haus Bier Hall: 1216 18th Street NW; saufhausdc.com  Sly at The Morrow Hotel: 222 M Street NE; marcusdc.comSmoke & Mirrors: 867 New Jersey Avenue SE; smokeandmirrorsrooftop.comSUMMIT at The Conrad: 950 New York Avenue NW; conradwashingtondc.com  Syn: 1975 Opportunity Way, Reston, VA; synrooftopreston.com  Takoda: 715 Florida Avenue NW; takodadc.com  Techo Palma: 606 Florida Avenue NW; techopalma.comTiki TNT: 1130 Maine Avenue SW; tikitnt.com Top of the Gate at The Watergate Hotel: 2650 Virginia Avenue NW; thewatergatehotel.com Treehouse: 411 New York Avenue NE; treehouseunionmarket.com Vagabond: 1836 18th Street NW; vagabonddc.comThe Ven at Embassy Row, Tag Rooftop Bar: 2015 Massachusetts Avenue NW; thevenembassyrow.com VUE at Hotel Washington: 515 15th Street NW; thehotelwashington.comWhiskey Charlie: 975 7th Street SW; whiskeycharliewharf.comWild Days at The Eaton: 1201 K Street NW; wild-days-dc.com Yara at Washington Marriott Capitol Hill: 175 L Street NE; @yara_caitol_hill 

Once the temperatures hit the 70s in the DMV, we all want to be outside. Patio season is officially here and whether you are looking for a tucked-away garden, a lively sidewalk scene, waterfront dining, or a neighborhood spot perfect for brunch and cocktails, there are plenty of great places to post up this season.Honestly, we think we may have just about every patio in the city on this list,  and yes, there are a lot of them. Consider this your guide to dining al fresco around the DMV. Looking for rooftop season too? Be sure to check out our Up On The Roof roundup featuring rooftop bars and all the sky-high sipping & eating  spots all around the city.2Fifty Texas BBQ: Locations vary; 2fiftybbq.com 600T: 600 T Street NW; 600tdc.com a.kitchen+bar: 1010 New Hampshire Avenue NW; akitchenandbardc.comAl Dente: Dog friendly; 3201 New Mexico Avenue NW; aldentedc.com  ala: 1320 19th Street NW; ala-dc.com All Set: Dog friendly; 8630 Fenton Street, Silver Spring; allsetrestaurant.comAlta Strada: multiple locations; altastradarestaurant.com  Anju: 1805 18th Street NW; anjurestaurant.comApéro: 2622 P St NW; aperodc.comArt & Soul: Dog friendly; 415 New Jersey Avenue NW; artandsouldc.comAstro Beer Hall: Dog friendly; 4001 Campbell Avenue, Arlington; astrobeerhall.com Bar Betsie: 1328 4th Street NE; barbetsiedc.comBastille: 606 N. Fayette Street, Alexandria; bastillerestaurant.com Big Buns: Dog friendly; Locations vary in Northern Virginia; eatbigbuns.comBistro du Jour: 99 District Square SW; bistro-dujour.comBlue Duck Tavern: 1201 24th Street NW; blueducktavern.comBourbon Steak: 2800 Pennsylvania Avenue NW; bourbonsteakdc.comBrasserie Liberte: Dog friendly; 3251 Prospect Street NW; libertedc.com Calico: 50 Blagden Alley NW; calicodc.comCentrolina: 974 10th Street NW; centrolinadc.com Chaplin's: 1501 9th Street NW; chaplinsdc.com Cheesetique: 2411 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria; cheesetique.comThe Commentary: Dog friendly; 801 N. Glebe Road, Arlington; thecommentaryarl.comCork: Dog friendly; 1805 14th Street NW; corkdc.com Corso: 4024 Campbell Avenue, Arlington, VA; corsoitalian.com Crooked Run Fermentation: 22455 Davis Dr #120, Sterling, VA; crookedrunfermentation.com The Dabney: 122 Blagden Alley NW; thedabney.comDacha: Dog friendly; Shaw & Navy Yard; dachadc.com Daru: 1451 Maryland Avenue NE; darudc.comDauphine's: 1100 15th Street NW; dauphinesdc.comDel Mar: 791 Wharf Street SW; delmardc.com dLeña: 476 K Street NW; dlenadc.com Easy Company: 98 Blair Street SW; easycowharf.comElectric Cool-Aid: Dog friendly; 512 Rhode Island Avenue NW; electriccool-aid.comThe Falls: 370 West Broad Street, Falls Church; thefallsva.com Fairmont Courtyard Bar: Dog friendly; 2401 M Street NW; fairmont.com/washington Fiola Mare: 3100 K Street NW; fiolamaredc.com Fish Shop: 610 Water Street SW; fishshopdc.comThe Fountain Inn: Dog friendly; 1659 Wisconsin Avenue NW; fountaininndc.com Garden District: 1801 14th Street NW; gardendistrictdc.com Gatsby: 1205 Half Street SE; gatsbyrestaurant.com Grazie Nonna: 1100 15th Street NW; grazienonnaxoxo.comThe Grill: Locations vary; thegrilldc.com Hell's Kitchen: 652 Wharf Street SW; gordonramsayrestaurants.com Hen Quarter Prime: 2121 First Street SW; henquarterprime.comHeurich House: 1307 New Hampshire Avenue NW; heurichhouse.orgHook Hall: 3400 Georgia Avenue NW; hookhall.comImmigrant Food: multiple locations; mmigrantfood.comIron Gate: 1734 N Street NW; irongaterestaurantdc.com  Jane Jane: 1705 14th Street, NW; janejanedc.comJoon: 8045 Leesburg Pike, Vienna; eatjoon.comKing Street Oyster Bar: NoMa,, Potomac; kingstreetoysterbar.comLapis: 1847 Columbia Road NW; lapisdc.com Le Diplomate: 1601 14th Street NW; lediplomatedc.comThe Liberty Tavern: 3195 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington; .thelibertytavern.com Lyon Hall: 31 North Washington Boulevard, Arlington; lyonhallarlington.com Lulu’s Wine Garden: 1940 11th Street NW; luluswinegarden.comLupo Marino: 40 Pearl Street SW; lupomarinodc.comLupo Verde: 1401 T Street NW; lupoverdedc.com Lutece: 1522 Wisconsin Avenue NW; https://www..lutecedc.com Maison Bar au Vins: 1834 Columbia Road NW; https://www.Maker's Union: Dog friendly'; Arlington, Reston, The Wharf; makersunionpub.comMaketto: 1351 H Street NE; maketto1351.comMasseria: 1340 4th Street NE; masseria-dc.commatchbox: Dog friendly; Locations vary; matchboxrestaurants.com Matt + Tony's: 1501 Mt. Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA; mattandtonysva.comMaxwell Park: 1336 9th Street NW; maxwellparkdc.comMGM National Harbor: 101 MGM National Avenue, Oxon Hill, MD; mgmnationalharbor.comMidlands: Dog friendly; 3333 Georgia Avenue NW; midlandsdc.com Milk & Honey: Bowie, College Park, Fairfax; milknhoneycafe.com Millie’s: 4866 Massachusetts Avenue NW; milliesdc.com Mi Vida: 98 District Square SW; mividamexico.com  Mon Ami Gabi: 7239 Woodmont Avenue, Bethesda; monamigabi.com/bethesda Moxies: Dog friendly; 1111 20th Street NW; moxies.com MXDC Cocina Mexicana: 1610 14th Street NW; mxdcrestaurant.comNina May: 1337 11th Street NW; ninamaydc.comNorthSide Social: Dog friendly; Locations vary; northsidesocialva.com Ometeo: 1640 Capital One Drive, Tysons; ometeotexmex.comOpal: 5534 Connecticut Avenue NW; opal-dc.comOpaline Bar & Brasserie: Dog friendly; 806 15th Street NW; opalinedc.com Ottoman Taverna: Dog friendly; 425 I Street NW; ottomantaverna.com Pascual: 732 Maryland Avenue NE; pascualdc.comPatty O's: 389 Main Street, Washington, VA; pattyoscafe.comPembrook: 1500 New Hampshire Avenue, NW: ThePembrook.comPerry's: 1811 Columbia Road NW; perrysam.com Philippe Chow: 653 Wharf Street SW; philippechow.comPiccolina da Centrolina: 963 Palmer Alley NW; piccolinadc.com Pisco y Nazca: 1823 L Street NW; piscoynazca.com The Point: 2100 2nd Street SW; thepointdc.com Pop Fizz Bar: 2108 Vermont Avenue NW; popfizzdc.comPrimrose: 3000 12th St NE; primrosedc.comProst: 919 5th Street NW; prostdc.comHank’s Oyster Bar at Q Street: 1624 Q Street NW; hanksoysterbar.com/dupont-circle  Queen's English: 3410 11th Street NW; queensenglishdc.comResidents DC: 1306 18th Street NW; residentsdc.comThe Royal: 501 Florida Avenue NW; theroyaldc.comThe Salt Line: Arlington; Bethesda; Navy Yard DC; thesaltline.com  Sfoglina: Downtown DC; Rosslyn, VA; Van Ness Street NW; sfoglinapasta.com   Shaw’s Tavern: 520 Florida Avenue NW; shawstavern.comSonny's Pizza: 3120 Georgia Avenue NW; sonnyspizzadc.comSt Anselm: 1250 5th Street NE; stanselmdc.com Stable DC: 1324 H Street NE; stabledc.comStellina: Mt Vernon Triangle; Tyson's; Union Market; stellinapizzeria.com Supra: 1205 11th Street NW; supradc.com Taco Bamba: Some dog friendly; Locations vary; tacobamba.comTaberna del Alabardero: 1776 I Street NW; alabardero.com Taqueria Xochi: Locations vary; taqueriaxochi.com Terra Gaucha: 1651 Chapman Avenue, Rockville; https://www.terragaucha.com THRōW Social D.C.: 1401 Okie Street NE: throwsocial.com Tony & Joe’s: 3000 K Street NW; tonyandjoes.comUnconventional Diner: Dog friendly; 1207 Ninth Street NW; unconventionaldiner.com Vagabond: 1836 18th Street NW; vagabonddc.com Villa Yara: 2815 M Street NW; villayaradc.com Zaytinya: 701 9th Street NW; zaytinya.comZeppelin: Dog friendly; 1544 9th Street NW; zeppelindc.com

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 StageNew show info coming soon  Where to EatDel Mar by Fabio TrabocchiLimaniMoonraker at the PendryPhilippe Chow Capital One HalMeredith Wilson's The Music Man: May 29 through 31 Where to EatFlore Cafe ModanOmeteo Starr Hill BiergartenStellina PizzeriaWren   Dupont UndergroundNew show info coming soon  Where to EatCasamaraChikoIrongatePizzeria Paradiso The Pembroke Folger TheatreHow Shakespeare Saved My Life - June 9 through July 5, 2026 Where to EatChikoThe Duck and the PeachParaisoQuill and Crumb Ford’s TheatreNew show info coming soon  Where to EatJaleoMoon RabbitSuccotash PrimeThe Riggs Hotel National TheatreNew show info coming soonWhere to EatCafé du ParcOld Ebbitt GrillThe OccidentalVue Rooftop at Hotel Washington Olney TheatreI&You The Musical: April 22 through May 24Please Underestimate Me: Carla Hall Solo Show: June 26 & July 9  Where to EatBrew BellyOlney StationSalt and VineScratch Kitchen Round House TheatreNew show info coming soon  Where to EatAventinoBlack’s Bar and KitchenCubano’sThe Salt Line Signature TheatrePippin - May 12 through July 26, 2026  Where to EatCarlyleCorso ItalianOur Mom EugeniaStellina Pizzeria Shirlington Studio TheatrePurlie Victorious - May 6 through June 21Feeling Afraid As If Something Terrible Is Going To Happen through June 4-July 12 Where to EatCork Wine Bar & MarketJane JaneLe DiplomateMallard Pearl Dive Oyster Palace Shakespeare Theatre Co.Othello - May 19 through June 28  Where to EatOyamelTonariRasikaZaytinya Synetic TheaterNew show info coming soon  Where to EatBar CollineBeauty Champagne and Sugar BoutiqueNi HaoWater Bar Theatre JNew show info coming soon  Where to EatEttoIron GateHank’s Oyster BarMallard Warner TheatreNew show info coming soon  Where to EatCentral Michel RichardOlio e PiùThe HamiltonThe Henri Woolly MammothA Fine Madness - May 30-June 28Venus - September 9 - October 4 Where to EatCentrolinaLucky DangerRasika