Break out the steins and the bratwurst, Oktoberfest is here. The world’s largest beer celebration may be rooted in Munich, but the DMV knows how to throw a party of its own. Running this year from now-ish through Sunday, October 5th-ish, Oktoberfest traditions take over beer gardens, and restaurants across the region. Expect weeks-long promos, special menus, and plenty of one-day bashes filled with pretzels, polka, and pints: Capital Jewish Museum: The Capital Jewish Museum invites guests to celebrate Oktoberfest after hours at CJM After Sunset: Late to the Party Oktoberfest on Thursday, October 16th, from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. The evening will feature curator spotlight talks about the first German Jews to arrive in DC, plus themed activities including stein decorating, trivia competitions, and dancing to klezmer favorites. Guests can sip German beers, enjoy a cash bar with snacks for purchase, and explore all current museum exhibitions. Tickets are $10 for Members, $15 General Admission.Das Best Oktoberfest: Come enjoy Maryland’s oldest running craft beer festival at the Timonium Fairgrounds on Saturday, October 4th from noon to 5 p.m.! Hundreds and hundreds of craft beers, wines, ciders, and schnapps will fill up a souvenir glass as guests enjoy this day-long festival in the infield. Tickets start at $44.46, available HERE. Pike & Rose: Join the community at North Bethesda’s premier fall festival – PIKEtoberfest – on Sunday, October 5th from 12:00 - 4:00 p.m. Celebrate the season Oktoberfest-style with live music and entertainment, a beer garden pouring local and craft brews, and a wide selection of eats and treats from neighborhood restaurants and retailers.

From September 15 to October 15, the country celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month, a time to honor the histories, cultures, and contributions of Latin communities. At a moment when the current administration has too often dismissed or targeted those very voices, celebrating them feels more vital than ever. Here in the DMV, the tributes are loud, proud, and — naturally — delicious. Restaurants and cultural institutions are marking the month with special menus, collaborations, and festivals that highlight the richness of Latin heritage.2Fifty BBQ: Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month with 2Fifty BBQ, led by Chef Fernando González, who brings Latin American culinary traditions to the heart of Texas-style barbecue. Born in El Salvador, Fernando draws on the bold flavors and time-honored techniques of his homeland, blending them with the precision and patience of Texas-style BBQ. Each dish he creates embodies unique flavors, from marinades rich with chiles and citrus to slow smoking over clean, fragrant wood. In honor of National Hispanic Heritage Month, enjoy specialty menu items such as smoked al pastor pork belly, pineapple-glazed ribs, and bright seasonal sides that tell a story of cultural heritage and culinary innovation; For more information, click here.Bayou Bakery: Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month through October 15, where Chef David Guas turns up the heat with a 30-day weekday pop-up featuring drinks and dishes from Spanish-speaking countries. At his first established eatery, Bayou Bakery, Guas honors the culinary stories of his kitchen staff’s ancestral families, serving recipes from Guatemala, El Salvador, and Puerto Rico. From empanadas to sopas and tres leches, each dish becomes a flavorful chapter in his culinary journey; Click here for more info.Cameo Coffee + Tea at The Roost: Cameo Coffee + Tea is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with A Toda Madre Roasters (ATMR), a Gaithersburg-based Latino and Asian-owned coffee roaster known for blending culture, inclusivity, and community into every roast. Through September 31, guests can enjoy exclusive coffees, retail offerings, and specialty drinks crafted with ATMR beans, including collaborations with local talent like Chef Julia Jaramillo. Available daily during Cameo’s operating hours; Click here for more info.Colada Shop: Colada Shop is proud to honor Hispanic Heritage Month by teaming up with four incredible nonprofits serving the Hispanic community across the DMV area. Each week, 1 nonprofit will receive 10% of profits from purchases made with their unique code. To celebrate, Colada Shop will also host a special Happy Hour dedicated to each nonprofit at 1 of its locations, bringing the community together over food, drinks, and culture; Click here for more info.MITA: MITA is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with Culture Sundays, a weekly series beginning September 21 that brings together Chef Miguel Guerra, Chef Tatiana Mora, and a lineup of guest chefs for an afternoon of culture, community, and creativity. Guests can enjoy handcrafted cocktails paired with inventive bar-style bites that highlight the vibrant flavors and traditions of Hispanic heritage, with featured chefs including Juan Nacho Olivera of Just Add Water on September 21 and Danny Ledo of Xiquet on September 28. Held every Sunday from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. at MITA, the series invites guests to gather, connect, and celebrate the rich culinary and cultural traditions that shape our community through casual, flavorful dishes designed to complement expertly crafted cocktails; Click here for more info.Mi Vida: Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at Mi Vida, where Chef Roberto Santibañez brings bold Mexican flavors to DC with a modern twist. Guests can enjoy vibrant cocktails, sizzling fajitas, shareable small plates, and a lively atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to gather with friends and family this September and October; Click here for more info.National Landing: This fall, National Landing BID and Amazon present NaLa Noches, a free live Latin music series at Metropolitan Park running Thursdays through October 23rd from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Curated by DC trumpet legend Joe Herrera and aligned with Hispanic Heritage Month, the series showcases salsa, boleros, Venezuelan jazz, and more, with performances by artists including Max Rosado, Gigi MacLaughlin, Miramar, Fran Vielma, Alfredo Mojica, and the acclaimed salsa band Bio Ritmo. Each evening also features hands-on art activities from the Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington, free Topo Chico (while supplies last), and food from local favorites like Taqueria Xochi and Peruvian Brothers; Guests can RSVP here.Neutral Ground Bar + Kitchen: Neutral Ground Bar + Kitchen, Chef David Guas reimagines American classics through a Hispanic lens. Pop-up specials like Tostones Con Camarón with Salsa Criolla and Vera Cruz Whole Fried Vermilion Snapper with aromatic sofrito bring tradition and innovation together. Guests can also enjoy Lillian's Tuna Croquetas, a personal tribute to Guas’s grandmother, blending family history with every bite; Click here for more info.Pascual: Led by Mexico City native Chef Isabel Coss, Pascual celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with wood-fired dishes and flavors rooted in family traditions. Highlights include lamb neck barbacoa, guacamole with unique accompaniments, masa-based dishes, and rotating seasonal desserts like buñuelos; Click here for more info.

Hello, fall. The DMV is sliding into cozy season. You know, tailgates, steins, sweater-weather patios, and menus swapping sweet corn for squash and figs. At TheListAreYouOnIt.com, we’ve rounded up the can’t-miss bites and sips of the season. Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month (list here). Get game-day ready with our NFL roundup (here). Raise a mug with our Oktoberfest guide (here).It’s still al fresco in our book, see Patio Pleasure and Up On The Roof (here, and here).So much more below: MARK YOUR CALENDAR: DCCK Capital Food Fight: DC Central Kitchen's Capital Food Fight, presented by Tyson Foods, is set for Thursday, November 6th at The Anthem. The annual fundraiser for DC Central Kitchen includes a thrilling stage show featuring the rising stars of DC’s culinary scene, tastes from dozens of top restaurants from across the region, and appearances from some of the biggest names in food. More info here. Capital One Center Celebration of the Arts: Capital One Center Celebration of the Arts, presented with Tephra Institute of Contemporary Art (Tephra ICA), is a two-day outdoor festival happening October 4–5, 2025, in the heart of Tysons, VA. Designed for all ages, this immersive event transforms the streets of Capital One Center into a multi-block celebration of the arts— featuring interactive installations, hands-on workshops, live music, and culinary experiences for every generation. More info here. Taste of Bethesda: Here's a scavenger hunt for you: find a place where can you try food from your favorite downtown Bethesda restaurants while also enjoying live music on four different stages. Stumped? Here's a clue: it'll take place on the streets of Woodmont Triangle the first Saturday of October. That's right, Taste of Bethesda is back with delicious bites from more than 40 Bethesda restaurants. Taste of Bethesda will take place Saturday, October 4 from 11am - 4pm. Tickets here. Shuck It!: Early bird tickets are available for the Shuck It Oyster festival. 65 +dc tax per person* Join them for the 12th annual Georgetown Shuck It! Beer and Oyster Festival at Tony and Joe's! Saturday, October 18, 2025 1-5 pm ID required to enter. 21 and up. Get tickets here. Snallygaster: On October 11, 2025 the merry monster makes its triumphant return to DC for its 13th year as a rollicking tribute to the wonderful world of craft beer. Festival goers can expect a mind-boggling selection of no fewer than 450 highly sought-after draft beers, gravity kegs and bottle + can pours from 175+ of the finest American and international producers set against a backdrop of local food trucks and two stages of live music. info here. NEW & NOTEWORTHY: Midatlantic Dining in Reston: The Simon has opened. Executive Chef Anthony DiGregorio and Executive Pastry Chef Claus Olsen lead the kitchen with a menu that’s both rooted in place and globally refined. Standout dishes include Dry-Aged Duck à la Presse with lavender from the chef’s garden, Pennsylvania Golden Chicken with brioche stuffing, and Pan-Seared Local Rockfish with sauce vin jaune—plus a decadent tableside cheese cart showcasing the largest Murray’s Cheese collection outside New York. thesimonrestonstation.comTwo in the Market:  Slice & Pie has opened a new location on 4th street. You can look forward to the Burrata Pie made with California tomato sauce, mozzarella, fresh burrata, and parmesan and the Detroit-Style Hot Honey topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella, provolone, hot honey, and “cup and char” pepperoni. Appetizers such as meatballs and garlic knots will be available alongside meatball and Italian sandwiches. 1309 5th St. NE, Washington, DC 20002; sliceandpie.comMediterranean Mexican Mashup: Eunoia, NoMA’s newest dining destination rooted in cultural convergence has opened. The kitchen is led by Mexico City’s Chef Josa Maldonado. Designed for sharing, the menu features Maryland koshihikari brown rice, an umami-rich sticky rice topped with mushroom mole, egg yolk, and garlic tamari; buttered Chesapeake Bay blue crab, Eunoia’s ode to the District, served with carrots, espelette pepper, and optional caviar add-on, and Maine scallop aguachile with avocado, Sichuan pepper, burnt onion powder and housemade blue corn tostadas. 320 Florida Ave NE, Washington DC 20002; Love a Late-Night Bite: Maison Bar à Vins, is upping the late night game in Adams Morgan with their impressive late night menu from Chefs Matt Conroy (JBF Best Chef Mid-Atlantic nominee ‘25) and Jason Chavenson. Highlights from the wine bar’s late menu feature Bone Marrow topped with escargots, a Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich, and Eel Croquettes. maisondc.comBrunch, My Darling (Brunch Alert): Joon is launching a new $35 “Classic Feast” for brunch every weekend! The menu features classic Persian brunch dishes, from warm fava beans, falafel and hummus, to crispy tahdig rice and za’atar pickles. Opt for a classic brunch plate like the Joon French Toast with raspberries and lemon curd, or try the “Royal Feast” option for just $55 for chicken or beef kabobs in addition to all of the options in the classic feast. 8045 Leesburg Pike Suite 120; eatjoon.comYou Should Give a Fig!: L’Avant-Garde invites you to indulge in the fleeting beauty of fig season with an exclusive three-course menu, La Figue. Dishes include Goat Cheese Salad — fresh figs, arugula, hazelnuts, orange confit, and thyme honey vinaigrette; Herb-Crusted Branzino — honey roasted figs, cauliflower purée, and aged parmesan emulsion; Tarte Fine aux Figues — with crème anglaise and a berries quenelle. 2915 M St NW; .lavantgardedc.comGhanaian To Go: Chef Eric Adjepong has announced the opening of DAWA, a new casual carryout and delivery concept operating from Elmina. Sharing a focus on bold flavors from his Ghanaian roots, DAWA’s menu is a reflection of Elmina’s, but with a more casual vibe and approachable prices. DAWA is now open Monday through Saturday for lunch and dinner, available for carryout and delivery via third-party apps. ing on to rich, slow-cooked dishes like Suya short rib or tamarind duck leg, both served with jollof rice and roasted tomato salad. 2208 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009; dawakitchen.comPower Lunch is Back: Barbouzard has added a lunch service. Under the direction of acclaimed chef Cedric Maupillier, the lunch menu is designed to suit both the swift business lunch and the more leisurely midday meal, offering guests a momentary escape to the South of France. Highlights include Bouillabaisse Marseillaise, Ratatouille Parmigiana, and Grilled Octopus, alongside signatures like Saumon à l’Oseille and the Wagyu Cheeseburger with frites. Lighter options include the Chopped Salade Niçoise, Fruits de Mer Crudo, and chilled gazpacho. 1700 K St NW, Washington, DC; barbouzard.comNew in Union Market: Chef Meherwan Irani brings his James Beard Award–winning Indian street food to Union Market. The Chai Pani menu is made up of chaat (street snacks), uttapam (savory fermented pancakes), chhota plates (truck stop–style small plates), sigri (grill), pav (street sandwiches, pronounced “pow”), specialties, and tidbits. chaipani.com No Phones Allowed : Hush Harbor, D.C.'s only no-phones bar, has opened and chef Rock Harper created this smartphone-free space as a way to build community when the city needs it most. The cocktail menu will keep many drinks from Hill Prince, Harper’s bar that will turn into Hush Harbor. Classics get a remake with the mole old fashioned, with both Bittermens Xocolatl Mole bitters and Angostura, and an Italian margarita turns red thanks to Cappelletti, a bitter aperitif. 1337 H Street, NE; hushharbor.co New Chef, New Brunch (Brunch Alert): Kiln has launched brunch and welcomed a new chef with new menu items. he new menu, crafted by KILN’s newly appointed Executive Chef, Chef Ruben Hernandez (previously from Gypsy Kitchen), features elevated takes on classic brunch favorites alongside fresh, seasonal ingredients. Menu highlights include the indulgent Lemon Ricotta Pancakes topped with blueberry compote and toasted meringue, a vibrant Chopped Salad with toasted grains and pickled raisins, and a savory Lamb Hash with smoked lamb ham, crispy potatoes, and eggs any style. 699 Prince St.; heronalexandria.com 20 Years of Rasika : Rasika is celebrating 20 years. To celebrate the milestone anniversary, guests dining at Rasika Penn Quarter will be treated to featured “Best of Rasika” tasting menus in October, November, and December created by Chef Sunderam.  The five-course menu changes each month. The Non-Vegetarian Tasting Menu is priced at $90 per person, exclusive of tax and gratuity, and the Vegetarian Tasting Menu is priced at $80. Wine Pairings can be enjoyed for an additional $55 per person.  633 D Street, NW; rasikarestaurant.com Winner, Winner, Pizza Dinner: Slice & Pie was just named number 83 on a list of best pizzerias in the world from 50 Top Pizza, one of the most respected pizzeria guides in the world. This fall, Adriani will open a second Slice & Pie shop alongside an off-shoot of its sister concept Lucy, an Italian cocktail bar where Neapolitan-style pizzas and pastas take center stage on the menu. The new location will serve the complete menu available at the flagship Slice & Pie shop, like the popular Burrata Pie and Pepperoni and Hot Honey Pie alongside sandwiches and desserts. 2221 14th St. NW; sliceandpie.com Gameday Eats, Everyday: Upstate FTW, the latest project from acclaimed local restaurateurs Scott Drewno and Danny Lee of The Fried Rice Collective has opened. The menu reads like a culinary road trip through Rochester, Syracuse, and Buffalo with DC flair: The Garbage Plate, a mash-up of cheeseburgers, mac salad, chili, and mustard, and many more plates. 1314 U Street NW; Upstate.com Mid-Autumn Festival: Mid-Autumn Festival is one of the most important holidays in Chinese culture and at Chang Chang. It is believed to be when the moon is at its fullest and brightest and the shape of mooncakes emulates the roundness of the moon - symbolizing family unity.Chang Chang’s moon cakes are traditional flaky and more delicate Suzhou-style. Order moon cakes here.  Steak x Italian = Michael Mina: Chef Michael Mina, the award-winning culinary visionary behind Bourbon Steak, has debuted his newest restaurant, Acqua Bistecca. The concept celebrates the convivial spirit of Italian dining with house-made pastas, fresh seafood, chargrilled steaks, and Mina’s signature flair. 10 Ridge Square, CityRidge Development Washington, D.C.;  NOT NEW, BUT NOTEWORTHY: Kayu Resurrection: After closing on H Street at the end of June, Kayu by Chef Paolo Dungca is officially back in Dupont Circle. The more casual, streamlined version of Chef Paolo’s former Filipino tasting room offers some new spins and old favorites from the previous menu, including a sweet corn agnolotti, Chef Paolo’s famous cassava cake with crab fat, jamón Ibérico, and trout roe, as well as ube bao bun chorizo burgers and crispy pork belly with a chickpea stew. Enjoy a glass of Chenin Blanc or a tamarind margarita while snacking on some bites at the bar, or sit down for a full dinner in the airy 40 seat dining room. 1633 17th St NW, Washington, DC; Kayu.com 

While you were slipping off for long weekends, pool days, and maybe even a little summer travel, the restaurant world here in the DMV didn’t exactly take a vacation. In fact, the past few months have been buzzing with new openings — some long- anticipated, some total surprises — that now deserve a spot on your fall dining list. From Indian street snacks and no-phone bars to a glam Italian steakhouse and a Western-themed rooftop, here’s a roundup of what’s new: Acqua Bistecca - Chef Michael Mina, the force behind Bourbon Steak, debuts his new Italian concept at City Ridge. Expect crudos, handmade pastas, butter-poached and chargrilled steaks, and a lively bar stacked with spirits. Chef Mina wanted to throw a dinner party and we are all invited.Barbouzard - Chef Cedric Maupillier (of Mintwood Place fame) channels the South of France at this new 17th & K Street address. Seafood towers, grilled fish, caviar, and Riviera-style pastas share the menu with late-night live music and a DJ booth.Chai Pani - The Asheville favorite that won Outstanding Restaurant at the 2022 James Beard Awards has landed in Union Market. Known for its chaat and bold Indian street flavors, Chai Pani’s first DC outpost is already drawing the crowds. Expect butter chicken, masala curries, and cocktails built on tamarind and lemongrass.DAWA - Top Chef alum and Food Network star Eric Adjepong spins off a casual carryout/delivery concept from his fine-dining flagship Elmina. Expect bold West African flavors — suya short rib with jollof rice, tamarind duck leg, chofi (fried turkey tails), and even a DAWA Burger with Yassa onion jam.Desert 5 Spot - Straight from LA and Brooklyn, this country Western bar has landed in Union Market with live music stages, a rooftop cactus garden, a mechanical bull, and cocktails with names like Ring of Fire and Jolene. Food leans hearty: Nashville hot chicken sliders, smoked ribs, brisket sandwiches, and cast-iron cornbread.Dok Khao - Chevy Chase Lake gets a new Thai spot, complete with a leafy dining room and a fountain centerpiece. Menu highlights include lychee duck curry, drunken noodles, and lychee cheesecake.El Mercat Bar de Tapas - Rockville’s beloved tapas spot has crossed the river to National Landing. The new space features paellas, tapas galore, and a Jamónero cart for tableside cured pork. A chef’s counter and open kitchen keep things lively. Stay tuned, lunch and brunch coming soon.Hush Harbor - Rock Harper (Queen Mother) has flipped H Street’s Hill Prince into a Southern- leaning space that’s D.C.’s first official “no-phones bar.” Think shrimp with Creole remoulade, red beans and rice with smoked turkey, and buttermilk biscuits with prosciutto and candied pecans — all paired with classic cocktails given a twist.Karravaan - From the chef behind Pappe, Karravaan explores the Silk Route with dishes that span Persian, Indian, Turkish, and Portuguese traditions. Expect jamón-wrapped dates, momos, tagines, and naan alongside a railway-themed dining room. Kayu - Paolo Dungca’s Filipino project has resurfaced in Dupont after closing on H Street. The vibe is more casual, with ube bao sliders, crab-fat cassava cake, pork belly with stewed chickpeas, and Filipino-inspired cocktails.Lucky Danger - Tim Ma’s Chinese American concept has graduated from takeout to a full- fledged flagship. The new Penn Quarter space features four different dining/drinking areas, including a moody “Lucky Club” cocktail bar and a mahjong parlor. Food runs from blue crab lo mein to duck fried chaufa.Maison Bar à Vin - From the Popal Group (Pascual, Lutèce, Lapis) comes a chic new Adams Morgan wine bar, housed in a three-story brownstone with chandeliers from France and Italy. Executive chef Matt Conroy and team serve French-leaning plates, while sommelier Chris Ray pours organic and biodynamic wines. Marcus DC - Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has finally made his D.C. debut, opening Marcus DC inside NoMa’s Morrow Hotel. The menu blends Samuelsson’s Ethiopian and Swedish roots with local touches from Maryland native chef Anthony Jones. Look for blue cornbread with yassa butter and berbere honey, mambo-sauce roast chicken, crab rice, and fluke crudo in apple cucumber aguachile. The color-splashed dining room seats 80, plus a dozen at the bar. Upstairs, Samuelsson also runs the hotel’s new rooftop bar, Sly.Selva - Central and South American flavors star at this July arrival — from Peruvian chicken to ceviches to Salvadoran-inspired yuca patatas bravas. The space is lush and green, with velvet accents, making it a cozy spot to start the night.  The dog days of summer may be behind us, but the dining scene is just heating up. Which of these openings will you be checking out first?

Sweater weather, meet shaker season. The DMV’s bars are trading beachy spritzes for cider highballs, smoky mezcal riffs, and hot-toddy cozies all made for crisp nights. We’ve rounded up the most sip-worthy fall beverages that are shaking (and stirring) the season.Thirsty for more? Keep the sunsets going on Patio Pleasure and Up On The Roof (here, and here).Feeling flighty? Browse our Flights list, here.Martini mood? Our Martini Guide is here.Need something snug? Slip into our Underground Bars roundup, here.MARK YOUR CALENDAR DCCK Capital Food Fight: DC Central Kitchen's Capital Food Fight, presented by Tyson Foods, is set for Thursday, November 6th at The Anthem. The annual fundraiser for DC Central Kitchen includes a thrilling stage show featuring the rising stars of DC’s culinary scene, tastes from dozens of top restaurants from across the region, and appearances from some of the biggest names in food. More info here.  Old Town Cocktail Week: Presented By Suntory Global Spirits in partnership with Captain Gregory’s, Old Town Cocktail Week is a celebration of the imagination and innovation within Alexandria’s cocktail scene.  Grab a featured cocktail from one of the over 40 participating restaurants or join us for a curated event and enjoy it all while on a staycation at one of the participating hotels with a stay and play package specially curated for Old Town Cocktail Week. September 25Tth - October 6th; more info here.  Capital One Center Celebration of the Arts: Capital One Center Celebration of the Arts, presented with Tephra Institute of Contemporary Art (Tephra ICA), is a two-day outdoor festival happening October 4–5, 2025, in the heart of Tysons, VA. Designed for all ages, this immersive event transforms the streets of Capital One Center into a multi-block celebration of the arts— featuring interactive installations, hands-on workshops, live music, and culinary experiences for every generation. More info here.  Shuck It!: Early bird tickets are available for the Shuck It Oyster festival for $65/person. Join them for the 12th annual Georgetown Shuck It! Beer and Oyster Festival at Tony and Joe's! Saturday, October 18, 2025 1:00 to 5:00 pm; 21 and up. Get tickets here. Bethesda Yappy Hour: Mark your calendars, because your pup's favorite party is coming back. Yappy Hour is back to Elm Street Urban Park this fall, on October 9th, with pop-up dog parks for large and small dogs, live music, and food and beverages for sale. Info here. Snallygaster: On October 11, 2025 the merry monster makes its triumphant return to DC for its 13th year as a rollicking tribute to the wonderful world of craft beer. Festival goers can expect a mind-boggling selection of no fewer than 450 highly sought-after draft beers, gravity kegs and bottle + can pours from 175+ of the finest American and international producers set against a backdrop of local food trucks and two stages of live music. info here. NEW & NOTEWORTHY: We Love When It’s Cheesy (Happy Hour Alert): Cheesetique just launched a new happy hour with $5 - $9 food and drink specials from 3 - 6 PM. $9 signature drinks, including the Apple Martini, Oink Fashioned, and Del Ray Buzz. 2411 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria, VA 22301; cheesetique.com C’mon Get Happy (Happy Hour Alert): Acqua Bistecca, Washington D.C.’s new Italian-inspired steakhouse, invites you to unwind midweek with its signature Happy Hour. 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, CityRidge Development, Washington, D.C.; theminagroup.com Tuesdays Are for Wine, Too: Mallard launches Wine Tuesdays, featuring 50% off select bottles from our curated list. Perfect for pairing with dinner, catching up at the bar, or discovering a new favorite without the splurge. mallarddc.com Wine Wednesdays: Josephine's is having a weekly midweek wine ritual: four rotating bottles at 50% off. The list changes every Wednesday to spotlight producers Josephine loves—think crisp whites, soulful reds, and a surprise gem or two—curated to pair perfectly with dinner or a laid-back catch-up at the bar. 109 South Saint Asaph St., Alexandria VA; josephineoldtown.com Wintoberfest: Fall is the wine world’s anxiously-awaited harvest season, and the start of Oktoberfest. So Lulu’s Winegarden, beer garden-style wine bar just off U Street, is bridging the two celebrations with “Winetoberfest” – an autumnal pop-up from September 24-November 9. You can enjoy harvest wines, apple cider margaritas, cowboy boots of Oktoberfest festbier, and new fall fare while surrounded by grape vines, gourds and amber-hued foliage. 1940 11th Street NW; .luluswinegarden.com What’s Behind the Flower Shop?: Founded by legendary bartender Renato “Tato” Giovannoni and hospitality veteran Alex Resnik, Florería and Brasero are inspired by the cultural tides that have shaped Argentina since the late 19th century. These spaces celebrate the convergence of culinary influences—Italian, French, Spanish, Jewish, Lebanese—brought by immigrants who arrived through the Atlantic. With their Washington, D.C. debut, Florería Atlántico and Brasero Atlántico bring with them not only world-class cocktails and cuisine, but a deeper celebration of immigrant stories and Atlantic crossings—past and present. 1066 Wisconsin Ave NW;  Getting Our Glow: Eat Sprout has collaborated with local nutritionist and wellness influencer Jen Silverman on a limited-edition smoothie. he smoothie—fittingly named Bethesda Glow by Jen Silverman Nutrition—is designed to appeal to both adults and kids. Packed with spirulina, banana, blueberries, and your choice of a protein boost and either dairy or non-dairy milk, it delivers a nutrient-dense punch that tastes as good as it feels. eatsprout.com Tableside Tea (Seasonal Update): Park Hyatt Washington D.C. is celebrating the return of fall with the addition of tableside tea service in the Tea Cellar, which is now available daily from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. You can enjoy one pot of freshly brewed tea from the featured list, accompanied by Pecan-Hazelnut Scones, with lemon curd, whipped crème fraiche, and raspberry blackberry jam prepared by Pastry Chef Colleen Murphy. 1201 24th Street, NW, Washington, D.C., United States, 20037; .hyatt.com House Wine:  RPM Restaurants will begin pouring its debut collection of three expertly blended single-vineyard wines—52W Cabernet Sauvignon, Cèpe d'Été Chardonnay and Three Kings Pinot Noir. A collaboration years in the making, the RPM wine team, led by Beverage Partner Richard Hanauer and RPM Steak Wine Director Brennan Sopko, worked hand-in-hand with acclaimed California Central Coast winemaker Andrew Jones of Field Recordings, to bring these bottles from vine to table. RPM.com NOT NEW, BUT NOTEWORTHY: Look Who’s Shaking: St. Anselm, Union Market's Americana-inspired steakhouse, is shaking things up with a brand-new cocktail program, rolling out fresh sips that bring a little extra personality to their rugged, yet refined bar program. Highlights include the Tequila Cocktail, a bright and bracing mix of Cazadores Blanco, red bitters, grapefruit, lime, and smoked salt that hits all the right notes of citrus and savor. For something playful, the Vodka & Bubbles blends Wheatley Vodka with passion fruit liqueur, vanilla, and lime, topped with bubbles for a sparkling finish. 1250 5th St NE; stanselmdc.com Go West: After celebrated openings in Los Angeles and New York, Desert 5 Spot–a popular country western bar and live music venue–is heading east once again. Signature drinks include the Ring of Fire (mezcal, Ancho Reyes, prickly pear, lime) the Jolene (tequila, strawberry, watermelon, lime) and the Dropkick Me, Jesus (Ilegal Mezcal, green Chartreuse, chile, lime) plus frozen cocktails and large format options. desertfivespot.com  

Are you ready for some football? Who isn’t! For plenty of fans, what’s on the plate (and in the glass) is just as important as what’s happening on the field. Tailgating may have started in stadium parking lots, but around here, it’s a full-blown art form whether you’re cheering in a bar packed with screens, or recreating game-day glory from your couch with takeout.This season, the DMV has no shortage of spots serving touchdowns on the table as well as on the turf. From beer buckets and wings to pretzels, nachos, kabobs, and even Garbage Plates (yes, really), here’s where to eat, drink, and play: Game-Day PromosAlfreda – Score big every Sunday with Alfreda’s lively game-day atmosphere, food, drinks, and every touchdown on the big screen.801 Shaw – Buckets of cocktails, High Noons, and Old Bay fries make this Shaw hangout perfect for college or NFL games.Hard Rock Cafe – $1 drafts, mix-and-match game-day platters, and beer buckets mean you’ll never watch hungry.Madhatter – Wall-to-wall energy in Dupont Circle with $4 drafts, $16 pitchers, and full food towers for the table.Mission Navy Yard – 25 TVs and official watch bar status for multiple teams, plus tacos, sliders, and a baller package for the crew.Prost – German beer hall vibes with Spaten drafts half-off and Pretzel Knot-chos on Commanders Sundays.Royal Sands Social Club – Gator fans (and everyone else) can cheer with pineapple guac, crab rangoon nachos, and the over-the-top “Royal Treatment” package.Shaw’s Tavern – Pitchers, shooters, and Southern-style bites make this neighborhood tavern a go-to.Sheesh Grill – Take football feasting to-go with kabob plates, Aleppo Hot Chicken Sandwiches, and za’atar fries.The Admiral – Dupont’s official watch bar for TCU, Penn State, and the Dolphins, with buckets, Orange Crush pitchers, and sharables.The Greene Turtle – A game-day staple offering pitcher specials, wing packs, and their new “Gameday at Home” catering kits.Upstate FTW – Danny Lee & Scott Drewno’s homage to Upstate NY with Buffalo wings, Beef on Weck, Garbage Plates, and more.Wildfire Tysons – Party platters, ribs, mashed potatoes, and whole pies for the ultimate home watch party. More Places to Catch the GameAs You Are Buena Vida GastroloungeFranklin Hall Hard Rock CafeIvy & Coney Jake’s TavernJohnny’s All American Cafe and BarMission Navy Yard Nellie’s Sports Bar - Nick's Riverside GrillOver Under Sports Book Rooftop LoungePenn SocialPublic Bar Live RusticoSports & Social TallboyTAP Sports BarThe Game Sports Pub The Point Tom’s Watch Bar The Ugly MugUnion PubWalter’s Sports BarWhitlowsYard House

More than three years ago, Alex Resnik shared his vision for bringing something extraordinary to D.C.  and now, that dream has become reality. The celebrated Florería Atlántico, long considered one of the world’s most influential bars, has landed in the capital, paired with its fiery sibling restaurant, Brasero.The project is a collaboration between two longtime friends: award-winning bartender Renato “Tato” Giovannoni, whose Buenos Aires bar has ranked among The World’s 50 Best Bars, and hospitality veteran Alex Resnik, whose career has spanned some of the globe’s most dynamic dining rooms. Together, they’ve created a space where cocktails tell stories of immigration and identity, and food draws directly from Argentina’s grilling traditions. Oh and did I mention the flower shop? TheListAreYouOnIt.com chatted with the duo about the journey from Buenos Aires to D.C., the art of designing a bar with soul, and why storytelling is at the heart of every great drink. TLAYOI: Tato, for those who have never been to the original Florería Atlántico in Buenos Aires, how would you describe its spirit?Tato: The original is a love letter to Argentina’s history of immigration. You enter through a flower shop, descend into a bar inspired by the ships that brought people from all over the world to our shores. Every cocktail tells a story, about Italians, Spaniards, British, Japanese, who all brought their traditions, ingredients, and dreams. It’s never just about the drink; it’s about honoring the journey behind it.TLAYOI: Storytelling is at the heart of Florería Atlántico. How do you translate that to D.C.?Tato: Washington is a city of diplomats, immigrants, and dreamers. In that way, it’s not so different from Buenos Aires. We’ve designed the D.C. space with that same narrative in mind, beautiful, but layered with meaning. The cocktails here will also carry stories, adapted to the history and flavors we find in this city. You’ll recognize the DNA of Florería Atlántico, but it will have its own D.C. accent.   TLAYOI: Alex, Brasero’s open-flame cooking has quickly become a signature. How does your menu complement Tato’s storytelling?Alex: Fire is universal, it’s one of the first things humans shared across cultures. In Argentina, it’s central to our cuisine, but we’re bringing a wider lens to the menu here. Just like Tato’s cocktails, each dish draws on immigrant influences, from Mediterranean spices to Andean produce. Together, the food and drinks are in conversation, one bite sparking the next sip.TLAYOI: The original Florería Atlántico is known for its intentional design. How did you approach the D.C. location?Tato: We wanted guests to feel transported, but not in a kitschy way. The space should have soul, it should whisper its stories rather than shout them. We worked with artisans and designers to create textures, colors, and lighting that make you feel you’ve stepped into a place where time slows down. It’s not just a backdrop; it’s part of the experience.TLAYOI: What do you hope guests walk away with after visiting Florería Atlántico in D.C.?Alex: I  hope they feel they’ve traveled, maybe not thousands of miles, but somewhere deeply connected to history and humanity. And beyond the food and drink, I want them to feel genuinely cared for. Hospitality is the most important part of our DNA, it’s not just about what’s on the plate or in the glass, but how we make people feel from the moment they walk in. If we’ve created a space where guests feel welcomed, seen, and valued, then we’ve succeeded.Tato: And I hope they leave curious and wanting to know more about the people, the cultures, and the ingredients that brought them to that table. Because that’s when hospitality becomes more than service, it becomes connection.To learn more about Tato, Alex and the whole Atlàntico team listen to them in the Foodie & The Beast studio, here 

Ice cold, shaken or stirred, gin or vodka?!  However you take your martini, one thing’s for sure: we like them stiff, stylish, and under $10. That’s right, darlings, in a city where cocktails can flirt with the $20 and higher these dirty (or not) little deals are pure gold. So grab your olive (or three), and let’s get into where to find the best bargain buzz around town. No reason to break the bank, just the ice. Clink-Clink.All-Purpose (Shaw)1250 9th St., NW, DC$6 martinis from 5 to 7 PM, Monday through Friday at the barAma885 New Jersey Ave., SE, DC$6 martinis from 3 to 6 PM daily at the barAnnie’s Paramount Steakhouse1609 17th St., NW, DC$7.25 martinis from 4 to 7 PM, Thursday through Saturday upstairsAventino7272 Wisconsin Ave., Bethesda, MD$7 dirty martinis daily from 5 to 6:30 PM at the barBar Angie1301 9th St., NW, DCHalf‑priced martinis during Martini Happy Hour daily from 3:30 to 5:30 PM. Corso Italian1307 Fairfax Dr., Arlington, VA$9 martinis during daily “Aperitivo Hour” at the bar; $5 martinis all night on TuesdaysCucina Morini901 4th St., NW, DC$7 martinis all night, every night in the loungeKing Street Oyster BarLocations in DC, VA, and MDHappy Hour daily from 3 to 6:30 PM includes a range of $5–$7 cocktails (check location for specific martini availability)Last Call1301 4th St., NE, DC$3 martinis from 5 to 6 PM on weekdays and 1 to 2 PM on weekendsLucky Danger455 I St., NW, DC$8 martinis (and other cocktails) from 4:30 to 6 PM, Tuesday through SaturdayMadhatter1319 Connecticut Ave., NW, DC$5 martinis from 4 to 8 PM on FridaysOsteria Morini301 Water St., SE, DC$7 martinis from 4 to 7 PM, Monday through Friday at the barPearl Dive Oyster Palace1612 14th St., NW, DC$8 martinis from 4 to 7 PM Monday through Thursday and 3 to 7 PM on Friday at the barPisco y Nazca Ceviche Gastrobar1823 L St., NW, DC$7 house martinis, including espresso martinis, during happy hourQueen’s English3410 11th St., NW, DC$8 martinis all night Tuesday through Thursday on the patioScarlet Oak909 New Jersey Ave., SE, DC$7 martinis from 4 to 6 PM, Monday through FridayShilling Canning Company360 Water St., SE, DC$5 gin or vodka martinis and $7 dirty martinis all night, every night at the barThe Wells2020 K St., NW, DC$10 specialty martinis during happy hour, Wednesday through Saturday from 5 to 6 PM

Labor Day may have come and gone, but tomato season is far from over. These sun-ripened beauties keep shining well into early October, and we’re still right in the thick of it. From rainbow-bright heirlooms to those juicy little cherry tomatoes you can pop like candy, they’re showing up everywhere. We like them layered on thick toast or tossed into salads, and shaken into cocktails, natch. Whether you slice them up at home or let the pros surprise you, now’s the time to savor every bite. Here’s your guide to peak tomato season across the DMV:AlfredaChef Russel Blue Smith Tomato Pie - crushed tomato, garlic, chili, fresh basil, wild oregano Romano (no mozzarella)Alma Cocina Latina Chef Hector RomeroScallop Crudo Vuelve a la Vida - scallops marinated in chili sauce, heirloom tomatoes, avocado, citrus, taro chipsAlta StradaChef Michael SchlowCreamy Burrata with ripe tomatoes, basil & warm breadAnd, Mediterranean Branzino served with artichokes, zucchini, tomato, fennel, lemon, capersBuffalo & BergenOwner, Gina Chersevani & Beverage Director Michael SacconeTomato Week runs until the tomato supply lasts at all locations and features rotating tomato dishes like Panzanella Salad, featuring garden-grown varieties: Chocolate, Green Zebra, Red Stripe heirloomsThe $5 Tomatini - vermouth, vodka, tomato water (available daily 12–4 PM)And the Sol Solins Produce 0 clarified tomato cocktail with tequila, basil, tomato, and waterCaruso’sChef Matt AdlerCold Antipasti for Two - marinated artichokes, vinegar peppers, ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, spicy olives, roasted red peppers, Chianti vinaigretteAnd, the classic, Tomato & Basil Caprese with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes  & balsamicCasa TeresaChef Ruben GarciaDrink: Tomato Negroni - tomato leaf gin, tomato water vermouth, sundried tomato Campari, tomato bittersThe Gazpacho Andaluz, grandma Pepa’s classic cold tomato soup, pipirrana & picos breadDon’t miss the How to Pa Amb Tomàquet - cristal bread, tomato, extra virgin olive (elbow grease comes from you)ElBistró at ElcieloChef Juan Manuel BarrientosThe Lobster with achiote butter, tomato & coconut sauceEllēChef Tyson BarrettB.L.T. -  Nueske’s bacon, iceberg, local beefsteak tomato, mayo, served on challah (pro tip: order the pickles and chips)El Mercat Bar de Tapas Chef George RodriguesPan Con Tomate - bread, tomato, garlic, olivesI Egg You Chefs Scott Drewno & Danny LeeAugust 27 is the La Tomatina FestivalCelebrate Spain’s iconic tomato-throwing festival with guest chef Ruben Garcia (Casa Teresa) showcasing regional flavors.Iron GateChef Anthony ChittumSlow Roasted Pork “Gyro” - with cherry tomato, feta, yogurt, sumac red onion & crispy potatoLucy Bar Chef Giulio AdrianiCaprese Di Bufala - Heirloom tomatoes, imported mozzarella di Bufala & basil Matt + Tony’s Chef Eric BrannonHeirloom Tomato & Burrata -  arugula, roasted garlic, pine nut, watermelon radish, fennel pollen, lemon thyme oil, 5-year aged balsamic & challah croutonMITA  Chefs Miguel Guerra & Tatiana MoraRestaurant Week Menu: Gazpacho Our Way - Chalet farm tomatoes, mole blanco, aji dulce, sorrelPerry’s   Chef Masako MorishitaChilled Stuffed Tomatoes - Ground chicken is seasoned with miso, enoki mushrooms, kombu water, mirin and gently stuffed into tomatoes, then simmered in a sweet dashi broth. The tomato dashi is made using the seeds scooped from the tomatoes (zero waste), and the dish is served chilled.Shaw’s Tavern Fried Green Tomatoes - lightly breaded pickled tomatoes topped with goat cheese on a bed of remoulade sauce2fifty BBQ Chef Fernando GonzálezBonfire Beets - ember-grilled beets, cherry tomatoes, tzatziki sauce, balsamic, roasted almonds, fresh dill (served cold)Vermilion  Chef Anthony ChittumHeirloom Tomato Salad - Path Valley melon, cucumber, sweet onion, green goddessAnd the Crispy Eggplant Parmesan with burrata cheese, torn basil, cherry tomato pomodoroWhether you’re sipping a Tomatini, or going full La Tomatina, tomatoes rule the table.

Kitchen musical chairs is in full swing across the DMV. From big-name chef moves to surprise swaps behind the pass, here’s the latest buzz on who’s cooking where and what it means for your next reservation: Chef Update: Andrew Whiteside in at The Conrad: Conrad Washington, DC announces the appointment of Andrew Whiteside as its new Executive Chef, bringing nearly 20 years of culinary leadership in luxury hotel and resort kitchens across the U.S., Canada, and Bermuda. In his new role at Conrad Washington, DC, Whiteside will oversee all culinary operations at the hotel, including in-room dining, events and banquets, and seasonal programming at the hotel’s rooftop, Summit at Conrad. 950 New York Ave NW; Chef Update: Fred “Freddo” Anderson in at Cynthia Bar & Bistro: Cynthia Bar and Bistro has a new Executive Chef, Fred ‘Freddo’ Anderson—a homegrown talent returning to the H Street neighborhood where he was raised. While a menu update is still in the works, Anderson is making his presence known with a bold Father’s Day weekend special: a massive ax-handle ribeye steak for two, served with comforting, soulful sides. It’s a dish that reflects both his culinary style and his intention to make a big impact. 502 H Street NE, Washington, DC; cynthiadc.comChef Update: Nick Sharpe in at La Bise: Chef Nick Sharpe has been tapped to become the new executive chef at La Bise, joining the Knightsbridge Restaurant Group’s culinary team of talented chefs. A Maryland native, Sharpe most recently helmed the kitchen at Ceces Roland Park in Baltimore, Maryland, serving as a chef partner. Before this appointment, he was the executive chef at Cranes Spanish Kaiseki in Washington, D.C. His tenure in the nation’s capital includes being the opening executive chef at Lyle’s, a seasonal American restaurant and bar, from October 2019 to October 2021. 800 Connecticut Ave NW Suite 600; labisedc.comChef Update: Michael Fusano in at Annabelle: Ashok Bajaj, founder and CEO of award-winning Knightsbridge Restaurant Group, is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Fusano as the new executive chef of the Michelin Guide recommended modern American cuisine restaurant, Annabelle. Michael Fusano hails from Southern California. Classically French trained at Le Cordon Bleu culinary school in Pasadena, California, in 2000, Fusano was tapped for his first opportunity as a cook, working for his early mentor Chef Robert Gadsby at Noe Restaurant in downtown Los Angeles. 2132 Florida Avenue, NW; Annabelledc.com  Chef Update: Lyndsey Barton at The Fairmont: Lyndsey Barton has been appointed executive pastry chef for Fairmont Washington. Prior to joining Fairmont, Barton was the pastry sous chef for MGM National Harbor from October of 2023. There, she handled high-volume pastry production, recipe development and created high-end culinary experiences for guests. fairmont.com Chef Update: C.R. Defuoco at Great Oak Manor: Chestertown boutique hotel, Great Oak Manor, is announcing the appointment of a new chef, C.R. Defuoco, who’ll oversee culinary operations at the property. Kellye Walker and Werten Bellamy purchased the manor in 2022 with a vision to reimagine the space while emphasizing wellness and connection and offering guests a tranquil escape to the Eastern Shore. With their ‘Taste of Great Oak Manor’ series, culinary excellence is also a focus where the property hosts award-winning chefs for immersive weekends of dinners, fireside chats, cooking classes and more. Upcoming events in the fall will feature weekends with chef Angel Barreto of Anju and chef Rob Rubba of Oyster Oyster. Chef's culinary career humbly began as a dishwasher at Manor House in upstate New York, eventually becoming a line cook. After six years serving active duty overseas, Defuoco explored his passion for cooking through experimenting with the flavors of Japan, where he visited while stationed in South Korea. He recently worked alongside Hiro Yamamoto at Ebisu Japanese Restaurant as head chef, deepening his understanding of traditional Japanese cooking and techniques. greatoakmanor.com