BYOB (Blanket, That Is): It’s National Picnic Month in the DMV!

Do you need a reason to pack up a picnic and head outdoors? Of course not. But July just happens to be National Picnic Month, and if you know us, you know we love a picnic! 

Whether you're tossing together a beloved family potato salad recipe or curating the perfect cheese-and-wine combo, local restaurants and markets are making it easier than ever to pack the ultimate picnic. Just grab a big blanket, fill your basket with all the delish goodies and — don’t forget the corkscrew.

Here’s what to pack for peak picnic vibes:

• Apéro: Caviar and Champagne, yes, you're that person now.
• Bayou Bakery: Blondies, cookies, and pies make for the sweetest endings.
• Bread Furst: More than just bread, but (pro-tip!_ get the bread.
• Call Your Mother: Schmears & bagels make for perfect picnics.
• Cheesetique: Wines and cheeses for a perfectly curated spread.
• Compliments Only Sub Shop: Overstuffed subs like the Hot Pants (pepperoni, capicola & genoa) or the Vesuvio II (meatballs, vodka sauce, mozzarella, oregano) are made to travel — just add chips and a shady spot.
• Cork: Fried chicken and Champagne = instant party.
• Doro Soul Food: Fried chicken buckets with all the soulful sides.
• Each Peach Market: A deli dream, fresh produce, house-made dips, apple & brie sandwiches.
• Fossette Focacceria: Pressed chicken parm, Nutella brownies, and bottles of Italian wine. This is picnic luxury.
• The Girl and The Vine: Charcuterie, a killer wine selection, and the Crispwich hoagie with a chip crunch in every bite.
• Green Almond Pantry: Thoughtfully packed salads, dips, focaccia, and picnic-ready provisions.
• I Egg You: Breakfast sandwiches, no matter the time of day.
• The Point: Crabs to-go for your waterfront feast.
• Rice Market: Hidden gem alert, prepared Thai dishes and rice bowls.
• Side Chick by Ellie Bird: Just launched! This ghost kitchen is slinging bold Asian American fried chicken, killer sides, and decadent desserts for takeout.
• Soko Butcher: House-made sandwiches stacked and ready to go.
• Stachowski’s: Over-the-top, piled-high sandwiches made for serious appetites.
• Sticky Fingers: Cherry pie bars and DIY campfire cookie kits — instant summer nostalgia.
• Taco Bamba: Empanadas and margaritas to-go? Yes, please.