Red, blue or just ready for it to be over, nobody should spend election night alone refreshing a results map. On Tuesday, November 3, the DMV’s bars and restaurants are rolling out the big screens, drink specials and plenty of snacks to get you through every last precinct. Whether you’re a political junkie tracking every race or just want good company while the results roll in, head to our events calendar to find a watch party near you.

Pumpkin carving, trick-or-treating, costume contests for people and pups, haunted nights out , you know it is Halloween in the DMV . Fill your calendar with everything that is on our calendar. Head to The List’s calendar of events to find a spooky happening near you, pick your costume, grab the dog, and let’s go!For Those Looking to Celebrate on Halloween: Events on October 31st (Listed Alphabetically):Nightmare on King Street Halloween Party at Alexandria Bier Garden: Celebrate Halloween at Alexandria Bier Garden with live music, DJs, drink specials, and a $300 costume contest. DJ Mike Rodriguez starts at 4:00 p.m., Small Town 7 performs live at 9:00 p.m., and DJ Rubin’s keeps the Hofbräu Room going all night. Costume contest entry starts at 10:00 p.m., For more information, click here.NEW! Halloween Drag Brunch at All Set: Join All Set for their Halloween Drag Brunch from 12:30 - 3:00 p.m. Get excited for spooky performances, outrageous costumes, delicious food, and plenty of Halloween fun. Tickets cost $20 per person. To purchase a ticket, click here.NEW! Hocus Pocus Halloween Party at Astro Beer Hall (Village at Shirlington): This Halloween, Astro Beer Hall’s sixties-themed bar, 1969, will host a Hocus Pocus Halloween party. On October 31st from 8:00 - 11:30 p.m., guests (21+ only) are invited to celebrate the holiday with a live DJ, photo booth, themed cocktails, and festive decor at the beer hall’s Northern Virginia outpost. Astro Beer Hall’s main floor will remain family friendly for guests under 21 years old until 11:00 p.m.. Guests are also invited to participate in Astro's annual costume contest, with a chance to win a $100 gift card. To purchase a ticket, click here.Bottomless Brunch Party at Barrel: Barrel is throwing a bottomless brunch party on October 31st, with two seatings: 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. and 1:45 p.m. - 3:15 p.m. Tickets are $75 per person and include a choice of brunch entrée along with sides served to each table. Bottomless drink options include select beer, bubbles, bloody marys, and espresso martinis, as well as spooky cocktails and mocktails created just for Halloween. Guests can come in costume, and a prize will be awarded for the best costume at each seating. To purchase a ticket, click here.NEW! Halloween Costume Contest & Live Music at Boundary Stone: Boundary Stone is celebrating the holiday with a costume contest and live music by Dead Fish. The winner takes home a 6-pack of Boundary Stone's 15th-anniversary collaboration beer with Atlas Brew Works, Fünfzen. The festivities begin at 6 p.m., and the event is free. For more information, click here.Costume Contest at Cucina Morini: Stop by Cucina Morini on Halloween between 5:00 - 10:00 p.m. in costume, enjoy one of Cucina Morini's cocktails and enter for the chance to win a $500 Cucina Morini gift card.  Each participant will be photographed, and the Best Costume winner will be announced on Instagram the following day. For more information, click here.Spanish-Inspired Halloween at Del Mar: Halloween gets a Spanish-inspired twist at Del Mar by award-winning chef Fabio Trabocchi! Enjoy a three-course menu, cocktail or mocktail, DJ and an 8:00 p.m. costume contest. Menu highlights include Yellowfin Tuna Tartare and Paella Fideuà Negra, plus plenty of spooky-season fun on the Wharf. Tickets cost $70 per person. To make a reservation, click here.Halloween Wine Class & Costume Contest at The Eastern: The Eastern, is hosting a Halloween Wine Class and costume contest on October 31st from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Wine director Eric Morris will lead guests through a tasting of three of his favorite fall wines, each paired with Halloween candy. Guests are encouraged to come in costume, and the winner of the costume contest will take home a free bottle of wine.To purchase a ticket, click here. Exorcist Stairs Light Show: Georgetown’s most infamous staircase is getting a Halloween…glow up. Come in costume to The Exorcist steps for a free haunted light show on October 31st from 7:00 - 11:00 p.m., presented by EventLightsUSA and The Exorcist movie enthusiast Andrew Huff. For more information, click here.Fiola in Maschera - A Venetian Halloween at Fiola DC: This Halloween, Fiola invites guests to a Masquerade. Join them for an evening inspired by the elegance, extravagance, and playful spirit of Venetian Carnevale. Fiola will transform into a lavish celebration featuring Italian food stations, specialty cocktails, live piano, and a few unexpected surprises while surrounded by flickering candlelight, rich florals, and Venetian masks. To purchase a ticket, click here.Fall from Grace Halloween Party at The Grace: Join The Grace for a late-night Halloween celebration featuring a live DJ, themed cocktails, and an alcoholic beverage included with every ticket. Come dressed in costume and they will make it two; costumed guests receive an additional complimentary beverage. Tickets start at $25 per person. To purchase a ticket, click here.Whiskey & History - Ghosts at Hard Rock Cafe: Halloween night gets a historical twist with the latest installment of Hard Rock DC’s Whiskey & History series. Whiskey & History: Ghosts will explore haunted history through an immersive evening of storytelling paired with food and beverage—a fitting way to spend Halloween in downtown DC. To purchase a ticket, click here. Dinner Before The Afterlife at Inca Social: On Halloween, both Inca Social locations will host Dinner Before the Afterlife, a Halloween dinner experience with DJs, seasonal food and drink specials, and group packages for parties of six and eight. Inca Social Vienna will also celebrate Noche Criolla with live Peruvian music, blending the restaurant’s cultural heritage with Halloween festivities. For more information, click here.Into the Grimm Woods Dinner at La Boheme: On Halloween night, enjoy a four-course dinner that will take an extra mystical turn when guests are encouraged to wear costumes from their favorite Grimm’s Fairy Tale. Tickets cost $99 per person. To purchase a ticket, click here.Alley Sessions Part Two - Tacos & Treats at Last Call Bar: On Halloween from 8:30 - 11:30 p.m., Last Call Bar is hosting their second installment of its Alley Sessions. Taqueria Habanero brings the authentic tacos. The bar brings scary-good custom cocktails. A DJ drops monster-mash beats, with prize giveaways all night. Tickets cost $28.52 per person and include two tacos, a Jell-O Shot, and a trick-or-treat bucket. To purchase a ticket, click here.Halloween Spooktacular at the Mosaic District: On Halloween from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m., grab your costumes and join the Mosaic District for their Spooktacular Halloween. Stop by participating retailers and restaurants for trick-or-treating, then head to Strawberry Park for a screening of Hocus Pocus at 6:00 p.m. For more information, click here.Dog Costume Contest at Osteria Morini: Osteria Morini is inviting DC’s best-dressed dogs to its Navy Yard waterfront patio from 11:00 a.m.– 3:00 p.m.  Each participating pup will be photographed, and the Best Costume winner will receive a $500 Osteria Morini gift card. The winner will be announced on Instagram later that day. For more information, click here.NAJA Nights - Halloween Edition at NAJA Mediterranean: NAJA Mediterranean is putting a Halloween spin on its popular NAJA Nights series. The Halloween edition of NAJA Nights kicks off on October 31st at 9:00 p.m. and goes late into the night. Guests can expect music from DJs Temsa and Samra spinning Arabic and Afro house, a live drummer, and complimentary passed hors d’oeuvres. A special Halloween cocktail, the Yallaween, will be available all night alongside NAJA’s new cocktail menu. A costume contest will take place at 11:00 p.m., with winners receiving $250 worth of prizes. To purchase a ticket, click here.NEW! Brunch of the Living Dead at Show of Hands: Celebrate Halloween from 12:00 - 4:00 p.m. with spooky cocktail specials, Bloody Marys, mimosa bars, and brunch food specials. Guests can enjoy a complimentary mini potion, enter a costume contest for a gift card prize, and order a $50 mimosa bar featuring bubbly and three juice options. For more information, click here.After Dark - Halloween Party at SLY: From 7:00 - 11:30 p.m. on Halloween, party under the stars with spooky vibes and vinyl beats at SLY's Halloween party. At The Morrow's rooftop, enjoy an open bar, unlimited snacking and dessert stations and a $500 cash prize for the best costume. Tickets cost $100 per person and includes open bar, stationed bites, and live DJ. Purchase tickets here.Night of the Living Ales at The Sovereign: On Halloween from 12:00 p.m. - close, The Sovereign will host its popular Night of the Living Ales. The event will unleash a bevy of  wild brews (50+ options), certain to delight and astound. There is no admission fee for this event. All bottles will be offered at half-price.Dress Like a Taco at Taco Bamba: Taco Bamba will be celebrating Halloween in style, taco style. Guests who dress up as a taco on Halloween receive a free taco of their choice. For more information, click here.Trick-Or-Treating at Tudor Place: Tudor Place is hosting its own trick-or-treat costume event (this one for humans) on October 31 from 10am – 12pm. Explore the gardens with a coffee while kids gather treats, get their faces painted, enjoy cider and goodies, play games, and do crafts. For more information, click here.Drag Bingo Halloween Party at Unconventional Diner: Unconventional Diner hosts its second annual Drag Bingo Halloween Party, complete with spooky decorations, a tarot card reader and a costume contest with prizes. Each ticket also includes an abundant buffet dinner with dessert, performances from some of the city’s most exciting drag performers—including India Larelle Houston from Perry’s iconic drag brunch!—and five bingo cards, with more available for purchase for $2 each. Cocktails, mocktails, beer, wine and soft drinks available à la carte. $60 per ticket plus tax, including service charge. To make a reservation, click here.Halloween Spooktacular Trick-Or-Treat at Union Market: Trick-or-Treat with Union Market District style. Join on October 31st from 2:00 - 6:00 p.m. for a night of family-friendly trick-or-treating around Union Market District. Visit participating retailers for spooky shopping and treats. Free and open to kids 12 and under. For more information, click here.Halloween Party at Whitlow’s: Whitlow’s on U Street will be the home of scary drinks and even scarier costumes on Halloween night. There will be two Halloween costume contests. At 9:00 p.m., the best costume contest winner will receive two Washington Capitals tickets. At midnight, the grand prize costumed customer will receive $250 and two free shots of any liquor at the bar. Drink specials will be scary, as well including the JD Negative (served in an IV bag) and the Freak Show. Whitlow’s famous Jell-o shots will have eyeballs floating in them. For more information, click here.Wisconsin Avenue Woof Walk: Bring your best-dressed pup to Georgetown on Saturday, October 31 from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. and trick-or-treat along Wisconsin Avenue, stopping at participating businesses for treats and water. Don’t miss the doggy costume contest at 1pm, with prizes for Best Overall, Best Duo (human and dog combo), and Most Creative. For more information, click here.For Those Who Want To Celebrate All Month Long: Halloween Activations Throughout October (Listed Alphabetically):The Exorcist Cocktail at 1789 Restaurant: For Halloween season, 1789 Restaurant is pouring The Exorcist, a cocktail inspired by the iconic Exorcist Stairs just down the street from the restaurant. The spirit-forward cocktail combines Tanqueray London Dry Gin, Hayman’s Old Tom, Luxardo Maraschino, Green Chartreuse and Braulio. Available now through the season for $18. For more information, click here.Halloween Mini Box at Astro Fried Chicken & Doughnuts: In celebration of Halloween, Astro Doughnuts & Fried Chicken will bring back its signature Halloween Mini Box. From October 15th - October 31st, guests can preorder a dozen festively decorated mini-Candy Apple, Pumpkin Pie, Honey Bun and Vanilla Glaze doughnuts for $35. Halloween doughnuts feature celebratory toppings such as edible ghosts, pumpkins, witch hats, and spiders. To place an order, click here.Halloween Movie Nights at The Bit: The Bit is dedicating its Saturday Movie Nights series to scary movies throughout October. Starting at 4:00 p.m. each Saturday, Halloween movies will play on a loop on the bar’s projector. The Bit will have popcorn available, along with a special cocktail for the night and its full food and cocktail menus. To make a reservation, click here.Halloween Cocktails at Euonia: This October, Eunoia will celebrate Halloween with seasonally inspired cocktails available through the end of the month. The restaurant is serving two new cocktails inspired by the staff’s favorite Halloween movies and traditions, blending Eunoia's Mediterranean spirit with American traditions. Cocktails include the Bewitched and the I.C.U. For more information, click here.Halloween Cocktail at The Fountain Inn: The Fountain Inn is getting into the Halloween spirit with its Dirty PSL with a Jack-O-Lantern face, a seasonal cocktail inspired by the classic pumpkin spice latte. For more information, click here.Halloween Pairings at Little Blackbird: From October 15th – October 31st, Little Blackbird will feature five unexpected pairings that put a grown-up spin on Halloween treats. The pairings include Candy Corn + Chardonnay, Peanut Butter Cups + Lambrusco, Snickers + 10-Year Tawny Port, Skittles + Dry Rosé, and Sweet Tarts + Blanc de Blanc. Each pairing is $11–$17 and includes a piece of candy with a wine pour.  It’s a fun and unexpected way to celebrate Halloween, and a chance to see how classic candies pair with different wines. For more information, click here.Candlelight Experience at National City Christian Church: Set against a mesmerizing backdrop of thousands of candles, the Candlelight® experience comes to Washington D.C, this Halloween with a live musical program built around mystery and the supernatural. It's the perfect Halloween experience for friends, families, and coworkers looking for something different from the usual haunted house or bar crawl. Tickets cost $47 per person. Purchase tickets here.NEW! Limited “Goosuto” Halloween Cocktail at Oribu: Oribu debuted a special Halloween cocktail featuring 400 Conejo mezcal, rich Averna amaro, a touch of Campari, and chocolate bitters. Stirred and served over a large ice cube, finished with an orange peel and smoked tableside. For more information, click here.Frankenstein’s Mad Scientist Cocktail Lab Pop-Up at Puttery DC: Puttery DC will have their Frankenstein’s Mad Scientist Cocktail Lab Halloween Pop-Up all month long. Guests can enjoy themed cocktails while enjoying 2-hours of unlimited gameplay. Optional add-ons are also available. Tickets start at $20 per person. To purchase a ticket, click here.Royally Spooked Halloween Pop-Up at Royal Restaurant: This October, Royal Restaurant is transforming its patio into a Royally Spooked Halloween Pop-Up daily from 3:00 - close the entire month, featuring themed cocktails, spirited zero-proof drinks and limited-time bites. Guests can pair their drinks with a variety of playful food specials. For more information, click here.NEW! The Potion Parlor at Show of Hands: Discover four seasonal Halloween cocktails, each served with a potion vial that transforms the drink’s color and flavor. Watch the Blood Moon Elixir bloom red or see October All Over shift from blue to purple. Available from October 22nd - October 31st. For more information, click here.For Those Looking For Día de los Muertos Events, Check Them Out Here!

We don't need an excuse to eat pizza, but October gives us one anyway, and we're calling it research. DC has become a legit pizza town, not just a place where you settle for a slice between meetings ... in the last few years there's been a real explosion of offerings, from old-school Italian trattorias to weekend pop-ups slinging pies out of a fryer stand.Whether you like yours by the slice or super soupy, wood-oven fired or peeled into a deck, there's so many ways to get it and get it good in the DC area. Here's where we're getting our 'za fix during National Pizza Month:2 Amys — 3715 Macomb Street NW; Chef-owner Peter Pastan has been running this Cleveland Park mainstay for over two decades, and it's still one of the most beloved Neapolitan-style pizzerias in the DMV, the kind of place regulars have been loyal to since before "Neapolitan" was a buzzword.Alfreda — 2016 P St NW; Chef Russell Blue Smith traded fine dining (he worked his way up to executive chef at The Source by Wolfgang Puck) for New York-style pizza, landing on a sourdough starter crust that gives it a little sweetness and complexity before it hits the brick oven. The restaurant's named for his late grandmother, and even the gluten-free pizza has a personal story — his daughter was diagnosed with celiac. Happy Hour is buy-one-pie-get-one-free with $8 spritzes.All Purpose — Locations vary; Chef Michael Friedman (also behind Red Hen and Aventino) built All Purpose around pizza-focused Italian-American cooking. Worth noting: the Capitol Riverfront location has closed, so Shaw and Bethesda are your spots now.Bar Del Monte — 3054 Mt Pleasant St NW; From the same owners as 2 Amys, headed up by Oliver Pastan, this Mt. Pleasant spot was recently added to the Michelin Guide and serves Neapolitan pizza made with freshly milled flour alongside simple, seasonal Italian plates. AND, no tipping. Boogy & Peel — 1 Dupont Circle NW; Chef Rachael Jennings is behind the "guilty pleasure" pizzas here, the kind that take nostalgic, junk-food-adjacent flavor combos and zhuzh them up into something you'd actually order at a sit-down restaurant.Frank Pepe's Pizzeria Napoletana — Alexandria, Bethesda; The New Haven original, dating back to 1925. Known for coal-fired "apizza" and the legendary white clam pie, now with outposts close enough that you don't need a trip up I-95 to get it.Frankly…Pizza! — 10417 Armory Avenue, Kensington, MD; Chef Frank Linn started this as a mobile wood-fired pizza stand before it grew into a real restaurant, and the wood-fired pies still carry that same chef-driven, one-guy-obsessed-with-getting-it-right energy.Fryer's Roadside — (Friday–Sunday pop-up) 12830 New Hampshire Avenue; Owners Ed Reavis and Jennifer Meltzer (also of Money Muscle BBQ) run this fried chicken spot, and their wood-fired pizza leans hard into their barbecue roots, think smoked meats and a house-made sausage topping instead of standard toppings.Inferno Pizzeria Napoletana — 12207 Darnestown Rd; Chef Tony Conte walked away from fine dining to make Neapolitan pizza in Darnestown, and it paid off, he's been a James Beard Award finalist for his work here. Get there early, when they run out of dough the doors close. Il Canale — 1065 31st Street NW; Chef-owner Giuseppe "Joe" Farruggio, a Sicily native, has made this Georgetown spot one of the few in the country accredited by Italy's top pizza-making authority.J&J Pizza — 550 Morse Street NE; Co-founders Julian Addison (pizza) and Jake Endres (wings) split duties, and it shows: 48-hour cold-fermented NYC-style dough with Grande mozzarella and Ezzo pepperoni, plus jumbo wings, inside Crooked Run Fermentation's Union Market taproom.L'Ardente — 200 Massachusetts Avenue NW; Chef David Deshaies, a James Beard semifinalist, cooks glam wood-fired Italian here, and yes, the pizza oven is genuinely gold-plated.La Merna — 2153 P Street NW; Co-founders G. Bradley Shorten (a Chicago native) and Meg Schmitt brought real Chicago tavern-style pizza to Dupont. This is not deep-dish. Ready for a cracker-thin crust, cut into squares, in a wood-paneled, red-vinyl-booth room built to feel like a supper club.Lucy Bar — 1350 Florida Avenue NW; Giulio Adriani, the same 5-time World Champion pizzaiolo behind Slice & Pie, mans the oven here too, turning out authentic Neapolitan pizzas (the Hawaiian's a surprise standout) alongside daily homemade pasta, in the old Pizzeria Vetri space at 14th and Florida.Martha Dear — 3110 Mt Pleasant Street NW; Chef-owner Demetri Mechelis, a Tail Up Goat alum, brings Greek influences to sourdough-crusted pizza that's become one of Mt. Pleasant's hardest reservations to snag.Nick's Riverside Grill — 3050 K Street NW; Less chef-story, more vibe-story,  a casual Georgetown waterfront bar and grill where pizza is just one more reason to stay for the water views and the happy hour crowd.Nighthawk Pizza — 1201 S Joyce Street, Arlington, VA; Launched by Michelin-starred chef Johnny Spero, who's since decamped for a new project out west, but the pizza he set in motion is still going strong, now leaning into hand-tossed pies and thick Detroit-style squares alongside Nighthawk's own house-brewed beer. Piccolina — 963 Palmer Alley NW; Chef Amy Brandwein (of Centrolina) brings her wood-fired, all-day Italian café concept to CityCenterDC and it’s delicious.Pizzeria Paradiso — Dupont, Georgetown, Hyattsville, Spring Valley; Founder Ruth Gresser opened the original Dupont location over 30 years ago and basically helped put gourmet pizza on DC's map before selling the business in 2024 to a longtime employee who worked her way up from dishwasher to co-owner.Pupatella — 1801 18th Street NW; Founder Enzo started this as a food cart in Arlington and grew it into a regional group without cutting a single corner. Pupatella holds actual Verace Pizza Napoletana certification, with dough hand-stretched using the traditional slap technique and cooked in a wood-fired oven built from Vesuvius volcanic brick. $5 Happy Hour at every location except North Arlington.Slice & Pie —Multiple locations, Founder Giulio Adriani, a master pizzaiolo, has built this into a NY-and-Detroit-style slice shop good enough to be ranked the country's #2 slice shop by Italian pizza authority 50 Top Pizza.Slice Joint — 1401 Pennsylvania Avenue SE; Chef-owner Rachael Marie earned her "Pizza Regina" stripes during four years at Roberta's in Brooklyn, and now she's slinging NY and square slices at The Roost food hall on Barracks Row.Stellina Pizzeria — Multiple locations, Chef and co-owner Matteo Venini, alongside partner Antonio Matarazzo, developed a signature "Neo-Neapolitan" dough — lighter and crispier than the classic — inspired by southern Italy's street food culture.Timber Pizza Co. — 809 Upshur Street NW; Started out of a pickup truck back in 2014; today owner Luke Watson and head chef Dani Moreira keep the wood-fired pies going strong in Petworth, plus mobile ovens that show up at farmers markets and breweries around the DMV.But Wait There’s More:Coming Soon: Bizzeria — Georgetown; opening this fall; Albi chef Michael Rafidi is spinning off Yellow's cult-favorite "(not) pizza" into its own restaurant. A 48-hour fermented sourdough crust and housemade cheese from pastry chef Alicia Wang, topped with Levantine flavors like spiced lamb and peppers or burnt eggplant with urfa chili crisp.That's the whole spread — from a $5 happy hour slice to a gold-plated oven, DC's not lacking for ways to celebrate Pizza Month. Want me to turn this into a doc so it's easy to edit and hand off?

The DMV has officially turned the corner into fall. Farmers' markets are swapping tomatoes for squash, chefs are loading menus with apples and root vegetables, and suddenly every meal feels like the start of soup season. This is the season for braises that make the whole kitchen smell like Sunday. 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 fall.Make a night of it with a show + a great pre or post-theatre meal with our theatre + dining guide hereThis week's list of The List's favorite beverages is right hereFrom festivals and pop-ups to patio parties, restaurant events, and fall food happenings around the region, we've got those covered hereLooking for cozy dining? Check out our Patio Pleasures + Up On The Roof roundups featuring patios, rooftops, courtyards & outdoor dining spots all across the DMV — now with fire pits and blankets.So much more fall deliciousness below:MARK YOUR CALENDAR: Capital Area Food Bank - At the Table: The Capital Area Food Bank is launching At the Table, a 3-part dinner series bringing together acclaimed restaurants and local culinary talent to raise funds and awareness around food insecurity in the DMV. The series kicked off October 14 at Karravaan, followed by The Ruxton on February 16 and Joon on May 10, with each evening featuring special food, cocktails, desserts, and collaborations. Tickets are $350.00 per dinner, with proceeds supporting the Food Bank’s work to address hunger across the region; capitalareafoodbank.org Mariachi, Tacos, & Margaritas at Apapacho: Apapacho is teaming up with Mariachi Imperio for Mal de Amores, a monthly night of live mariachi, tacos, margaritas, and heartbreak anthems. Guests can sing along to 2 hours of live music while enjoying food and drinks, with one rule: don't call your ex! Upcoming dates include November 13, and December 11 at Apapacho’s Union Market location; apapachotaqueria.com Rustico 20th Anniversary: Rustico and Buzz are celebrating 20 years on Slaters Lane in Alexandria with a family-friendly fall festival on Saturday, October 24, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Festivities include a patio cookout with hot dogs, brats, and giant pretzels, live music, craft beers, wine, cocktails, kids’ activities, and complimentary popcorn and spiced apple cider. Guests can also enjoy a dog adoption event with the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria, Halloween treats for costumed kids and dogs, and a costume donation drive benefiting Carpenter’s Shelter; rusticorestaurant.com Start Your Engines, DMV! Grand Prix Race Day Takes Over City Ridge: DC Motorsport Community is bringing race-day excitement to City Ridge on Sunday, October 25, with closed-street car and motorcycle displays, free outdoor viewing of the United States Grand Prix from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., and a sunset DJ after-party. Guests can upgrade to a $160.00 rooftop VIP experience featuring pool access, complimentary Tito’s cocktails, premium bites including oysters, caviar, and Wagyu, and exclusive race viewing. The event also features specialty cocktails and tastings, with 10% of VIP ticket proceeds benefiting Becky’s Fund; dcmotorsportcommunity.com Vermilion VA Wine Takeover: Vermilion in Old Town Alexandria is hosting a Virginia Wine Takeover on Thursday, October 29, at 6:30 p.m., featuring Present Company Wines founder and winemaker Chris Tropeano. For $40.00 per person, guests can enjoy 2 hours of unlimited pours from 5 Virginia wines, including Chenin Blanc Pét Nat, Riesling, Rosé, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, alongside a guided tasting and snacks from Chef Tony Chittum, including house-made dips, seasonal crudité, and arancini; vermilionrestaurant.com Best Buddies: Best Buddies Virginia & DC will host Homecoming: Two Parties, One Purpose on Friday, October 30, from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center. The inclusive gala features Best Buddies participants teaming up with local chefs to create tasting dishes, alongside bites from restaurants like Taco Bamba and The Salt Line, live music from Bootsie and the Groove, and a silent auction. Gala tickets are $200.00, with proceeds supporting friendship, employment, and leadership programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. A concurrent $10.00 Student Homecoming Dance will feature a DJ, costume contest, and sensory-friendly activities.; bestbuddies.org Rasika West End & Bombay Club Celebrate Diwali: Restaurateur Ashok Bajaj’s restaurants are celebrating Diwali November 6 through 8 with festive menus and candle displays honoring the Festival of Lights. At Rasika West End, Chef Vikram Sunderam’s specials include Chicken Tikka Pista, Tandoori Sunehri Shrimp, Lamb Chop Posto Korma, and Palak Paneer Lasagna. At The Bombay Club, Chef Nilesh Singhvi is serving dishes like Avadhi Kebab, Crab Korma, Lobster Kaliya, Nalli Gosht, and a traditional dessert sampler. Specials will be available for dinner November 6 through 7 and lunch and dinner November 8; rasikarestaurant.com 20 Years of Central Michel Richard: Central is celebrating its 20th anniversary on Saturday, November 7, at 7 p.m. with a special evening honoring the legacy of Chef Michel Richard. Chefs David Deshaies and Cedric Maupillier will reimagine Richard’s signature dishes as passed bites, alongside an open bar and silent auction. Tickets are $150.00 per person, with proceeds benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital; opentable.com ChallahFest: As part of ANU Museum’s global Challahfest, Sixth & I will host Beyond the Braid: Challah, Culture, and Identity on Sunday, November 8, at 6:30 p.m. Moderated by FOODISH founder Merav Oren, the conversation features James Beard Award-winning chef Pati Jinich and chef Alexander “Zoonder” Lachnish, exploring Jewish identity, memory, and culture through the tradition of challah. Guests can arrive at 5:00 p.m. for drinks and a challah lollipop decorating activity with Baked by Yael. Tickets are $12.00 for the panel or $22.00 with the reception; sixthandi.org Capital Food Fight: DC Central Kitchen’s annual Capital Food Fight returns November 12, bringing together top chefs, local restaurants, and celebrity guests for a night of food and friendly competition. This year’s battling chefs include Scheyla Acosta, Anthony Jones, Brian Lacayo, and Robbie Reyes, with appearances by Eric Adjepong, Tiffany Derry, Andrew Zimmern, and more. Guests can enjoy bites from participating restaurants while supporting a great cause, with 100% of event proceeds benefiting DC Central Kitchen’s hunger relief and culinary job training programs; capitalfoodfight.org Four Seasons DC Wine & Dine: The fifth annual Wine & Dine returns November 12 through 13, bringing together celebrity chefs, local culinary talent, and exceptional wines and spirits in support of MedStar Health’s lung cancer research initiatives. The celebration kicks off November 12 with a Culinary Showcase at Bourbon Steak DC from 6:00 tp 10:00 p.m., featuring chef action stations, passed bites, and wine and spirit tastings from chefs including Michael Mina, Lorena Garcia, Douglas Keane, Quentin Welch, and Jillian Fitch. On November 13, guests can enjoy an intimate 4-course celebrity chef dinner with curated wine pairings; web.cvent.com Karavan Diwali Gathering: DC Diwali returns on Sunday, November 15, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Karravaan for an afternoon celebrating South Asian culture. The festivities include Silk Road-inspired cuisine, music by DJ Vicious, South Asian-owned small businesses, and a special appearance by comedian Badar Tareen. Guests are encouraged to dress in South Asian festive attire, with net proceeds benefiting Ashiyanaa, a nonprofit supporting South Asian survivors of domestic violence across the DMV; resy.com Shelia’s Table at Salamander Middleburg: Salamander Middleburg is launching Sheila’s Table, an intimate culinary series hosted by resort owner Sheila Johnson, with its inaugural experience November 15 through 17 featuring Chicago chef and entrepreneur Cliff Rome. The 3-day gathering will include hands-on cooking experiences, chef-led dinners at Harrimans, tastings, cocktails, and fireside conversations exploring the stories behind the food. Attendance is limited, and overnight packages are available. Each gathering will also support a charitable cause selected by the featured chef; salamanderresort.com DC Capital Feast: On Monday, November 16 at 6:00 p.m., DC Capital Feast returns to The Square for an evening celebrating DC’s culinary community. Guests can enjoy dishes from Rose Previte (Maydan), Susan Bae (Moon Rabbit), Anthony Jones (Marcus DC), and Kareem “Mr. Bake” Queeman, with special recognition of C•CAP alumna Chef Nadia Montague. All proceeds benefit C•CAP, supporting more than 1,400 D.C. public school students through culinary training, scholarships, and career opportunities; my.onecause.com Holiday Cookie Exchange: The annual Holiday Cookie Swap will be at La Collina on Monday, December 7, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m., alongside a special Cookie Kindness Project fundraiser benefiting Sasha Bruce Youthwork, which supports young people experiencing homelessness in the DC area. Participants can join the cookie swap, contribute baked goods to the fundraiser, or take part in both. Registration closes October 24 for the fundraiser and November 28 for the cookie swap; sign up here NEW & NOTEWORTHY: Autumnal Omakase: Nobu DC in the West End is introducing 2 new seasonal offerings, including an off-menu Fish & Chips with Caviar special, available by request on weekends. The dish features tempura-fried Glacier 51 Chilean Sea Bass with yuzu-tamari crème fraîche and a tin of Kolikof Grand Reserve Ossetra Sturgeon Caviar. Guests can also enjoy a fall omakase tasting menu, available nightly through January 3, featuring Baked Oyster Shichimi Amazu, Chilean Sea Bass with black pepper crust, Prime Heritage Angus Tenderloin, and a selection of chef’s sushi and sashimi; noburestaurants.comOur Bar: Restaurateur Daniella Senior’s 5C Hospitality, the team behind Colada Shop and Elegancia, is opening Bar Nuestro on October 28 at Urby in Navy Yard. The Latin-rooted, European-inspired bistrot features a menu from Culinary Director Claudio Foschi and Executive Chef Harper McClure, with dishes like Oxtail Mafalde, Truffle Yuca Beignets, and Flan de Mamá Lucy. Beverage Director Josh Murski leads the cocktail program, including a Build Your Own Martini bar. The entire menu is peanut- and tree nut-free and prepared without seed oils, all served in a retro-modern space designed by Shawn Hausman; barnuestro.comCaviar Service: Wild Goat Hospitality’s steakhouse in Pike & Rose is introducing a new Caviar Bar and Caviar Service from Chef Aris Tsekouras. Guests can add Precious Pearls Kaluga or Ossetra caviar to bites like Crab Rolls, Tuna Carpaccio, Beef Tartare, and Crispy Potatoes, or enjoy traditional caviar service with blini, capers, crème fraîche, shallots, and cured egg yolk. The restaurant’s signature “Coldest Martini in D.C.” can also be upgraded with a caviar-stuffed olive garnish. The new offerings are available now; eatbouboulina.com(Chef Update) Mi Vida Culinary Director: KNEAD Hospitality + Design has welcomed award-winning Chef Juan Pablo Loza as Culinary Director, marking the restaurant’s first major culinary leadership change since opening in 2018. With experience at Le Cirque, Rosewood, Belmond, and Auberge Resorts Collection, Loza brings a fresh approach to Mexican cuisine with a new menu featuring chile-rubbed salmon with avocado-citrus purée, al pastor-inspired ribs, crispy pork shank carnitas, banana leaf-wrapped barbacoa short rib, and Guacamole Oaxaca with grasshoppers and chorizo. The new menu debuted October 13, with interactive culinary experiences planned for the coming months; mividamexico.comFred & Stilla…Not Stella: Located inside The Ven at Embassy Row in Dupont Circle, Fred & Stilla is welcoming fall with a refreshed menu of globally inspired comfort food and new weekly specials. Highlights include Ahi Tuna Nachos, Kuku Paku coconut curry chicken, Lamb Osso Buco, and the Wagyu Fred Burger. Guests can also enjoy Tequila & Taco Tuesdays and Bourbon & Burger Thursdays, along with a Premium Tequila Tasting, weekday happy hour from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m., and late-night specials; fredandstilla.comSouthern Coastal Indian for Brunch? Yes, Please: Restaurateur Ashok Bajaj’s Forest Hills restaurant Malabar is launching Sunday brunch on October 25, served from 11:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. The buffet, created by James Beard Award-winning Chef Vikram Sunderam, features a rotating selection of modern Indian dishes, including Kerala Fish Fry, Mangalorean Chicken Curry, Lamb Roganjosh, vegetarian specialties, and traditional desserts. Guests can also enjoy mimosas, Bloody Marys, and sparkling wine, or unlimited brunch drinks for 90 minutes; malabar-dc.comAnniversary Sushi: Sushi Hachi is celebrating its anniversary with a limited-time $99.00 sushi set for 2-3 guests, available October 15 through 31. The special includes 9 pieces each of nigiri and sashimi, 3 sushi rolls, miso soup, edamame, and shishito peppers. Guests can also enjoy house wine and sake specials; sushihachidc.comTweet, Tweet PSL: Chef/Owner Eric Brannon is giving the classic pumpkin spice latte a savory twist with his new Latte Spiced Pumpkin dish. Japanese kabocha squash is roasted with espresso and warm spices, paired with soy-whiskey caramel, and finished with an airy peppercorn-and-chili milk foam, bringing familiar fall flavors from the coffee cup to the plate; littlebirdieva.comNew in the Navy Yard Neighborhood: Restaurateur Daniella Senior’s 5C Hospitality, the team behind Colada Shop and Elegancia, is opening Bar Nuestro on October 28 at Urby in Navy Yard. The Latin-rooted, European-inspired bistrot features a menu from Culinary Director Claudio Foschi and Executive Chef Harper McClure, with dishes like Yuca Beignets, Oxtail Mafalde, Pork Chop Milanesa, and Flan de Mamá Lucy. The menu is entirely peanut- and tree nut-free and prepared without seed oils; barnuestro.comBoo Alert…Ghostly Doughnuts: Astro’s Village at Shirlington location is embracing fall with a seasonal beverage menu featuring pumpkin, apple, and butter pecan flavors. Highlights include the Butter Pecan Crème Brûlée Latte, Pumpkin Crème Brûlée Latte, Apple Pie Latte, and Caramel Apple Cold Brew, alongside seasonal chai, matcha, and cold brew options made with house-made syrups. The menu is available exclusively at the Shirlington location through the end of fall; astrodoughnuts.comBoo Alert…Treats on the Street: Fredericksburg’s historic Goolrick’s soda fountain, which reopened this summer following a 4-year restoration, is celebrating Halloween with seasonal Pumpkin Snap ice cream and milkshakes made with South Mountain Creamery pumpkin ice cream and ginger snap cookies. The treats are available throughout fall, and on October 31, costumed staff will hand out candy during downtown Fredericksburg’s Treats on the Streets celebration; fxbg.com/calendar-item/treats-on-the-streets(Chef Update) Ten Ten: Newly opened inside One Washington Circle, Ten Ten West End showcases contemporary American cuisine from Executive Chef Nicholas Fulginiti, whose cooking draws on his Italian heritage, French techniques, Southern influences, and seasonal Mid-Atlantic ingredients. The menu puts a refined spin on familiar comfort foods, including Spicy Pork Sausage Ragù with lumache, whipped ricotta, basil, and Aleppo pepper. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, happy hour, and dinner; tentendc.comGive a Pie, Get a Pie: Chef Jenn Crovato is bringing back the 6th annual Chicken Pot Pie-athon through October 31st, donating 30% of proceeds to Georgetown Main Street to support local small businesses. This year, the fundraiser expands beyond her signature Chicken Pot Pie to include the full Jenn’s Homemade lineup of freezer-to-oven meals, featuring Vegetable Pot Pie, Short Rib Mac & Cheese, Chicken Enchiladas, and more; 1310kitchendc.comMeyhane…Sit and Stay a While: Tiffany’s has introduced a new Meyhane-style menu inspired by Executive Chef Mehmet Sukutli’s Turkish upbringing and the tradition of sharing leisurely meals over mezze, wine, and raki. The centerpiece is the Meyhane Experience for Two, featuring dips, salads, and grilled meats and seafood. New à la carte dishes include Duck Mutancana and Atom Mezze, alongside Turkish-inspired cocktails like the Pickled Bazaar and Reis, plus desserts including Turkish Wet Cake and Red Pepper Sorbet; tiffanysbistrobar.comRegan-Approved: Just steps from Georgetown’s famous Exorcist Stairs, 1789 Restaurant is getting into the Halloween spirit with The Exorcist, a seasonal cocktail inspired by the iconic landmark. The spirit-forward sip combines Tanqueray London Dry Gin, Hayman’s Old Tom Gin, Luxardo Maraschino, Green Chartreuse, and Braulio, available now throughout the Halloween season; 1789restaurant.comYala! Your Greek Summer Continues Into Fall: Yala is welcoming fall with a lineup of seasonal flavors, starting with Chai on October 8 and Pumpkin Spice on October 10. Later this month, guests can look forward to Dark Chocolate (dairy-free), Apple Pie, and Cinnamon Apple Baklava. Founded by Chrys Kefalas, Yala specializes in Greek yogurt ice cream made with locally sourced A2 dairy from Maryland’s South Mountain Creamery. The brand’s popular pop-up at Conrad Washington, DC has also been extended through the fall; yalagreekicecream.comNOT NEW, BUT NOTEWORTHY:Falling for CHĪKO: From chefs Danny Lee and Scott Drewno and the team behind Fried Rice Collective, CHĪKO brings together Chinese and Korean flavors with a modern, casual approach. This fall, the menu highlights seasonal ingredients with dishes like Acorn Jelly “Scallop” Crudo, featuring soy dressing, trout roe, crispy shallots, and nori, and Butternut Squash Soup finished with chili oil and milk bread croutons; mychiko.comSweet Openings: Pitango Gelato is opening its newest location at South Riding Market Square in Chantilly on Wednesday, October 28, with a grand opening celebration beginning at 4:45 p.m. The festivities include a ribbon cutting, family-friendly activities, complimentary samples of Italian-style sipping chocolate, and giveaways for early customers. Guests can enjoy handcrafted gelato, sorbet, espresso drinks, and baked goods, with $1.00 from every gelato purchased on opening day benefiting Dulles South Food Pantry; pitangogelato.comTwosome Lands in the US: South Korean café brand Twosome Place is making its US debut in Alexandria, Virginia, bringing its signature coffeehouse experience and Korean-inspired desserts to the DMV. Known for its specialty coffee, handcrafted cakes, and café treats, the new location marks the brand’s first step into the American market; twosomeplace.comThis Place is Always Hopping: Pisco y Nazca’s DMV locations are welcoming fall with a refreshed Peruvian menu featuring Aguadito de Pollo, Tacos de Camarones, Ceviche Trío de Conchas, slow-roasted Asado Peruano, and Alfajor Pavlova for dessert. New seasonal cocktails include the Autumn in Cusco and Dulce de Leche Espresso Martini. Throughout October, $1.00 from every Lazo Rosado cocktail sold will support breast cancer awareness efforts; piscoynazca.comPink Moon Oysters - Breast Cancer Awareness Alert: Throughout October, Cordelia Fishbar, Old Ebbitt Grill, Clyde’s, and Rye Street Tavern are partnering with Pangea Shellfish to serve Pink Moon oysters in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. A portion of proceeds from every Pink Moon oyster sold will benefit the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, supporting breast cancer research; clydes.comA Taste of Autumn: Fairfax’s intimate 30-seat culinary speakeasy is celebrating fall with a new 5-course tasting menu from Chef Jon, available through mid-October. Seasonal highlights include squash with saffron, yakitori yak with figs, venison with pumpernickel and sea buckthorn, and a grape-inspired dessert with chocolate. Guests can customize select courses and enhance their experience with a wine pairing or Nude Pairing featuring selections from international boutique producers.; elyse.lila.llc71 Years & Counting: Rodman's is celebrating 71 years in business with a special proclamation from Mayor Muriel Bowser recognizing its longstanding contributions to the community. Founded in 1955, Rodman’s has been a Friendship Heights staple since 1964, known for its specialty groceries, international foods, wine, spirits, and pharmacy services. Now led by third-generation owner Nolan Rodman, the independent business continues to serve generations of Washingtonians across DC and Maryland; rodmans.comPrivate Dining, Yes Chef!: Chef Amy Brandwein, the restaurateur behind Centrolina, has launched Casalina, a new private dining and catering company serving the DC area. Inspired by seasonal Italian cooking and locally sourced ingredients, Casalina offers customized experiences ranging from intimate dinner parties and celebrations to corporate breakfasts, lunches, and meetings. Menus feature dishes like Pear & Ricotta Tortelli, Chestnut Pappardelle, Beef Tenderloin, and Maple Budino, alongside house-made pastries, grazing boards, and aperitivo selections; casalinadc.comUnlimited at Nue: Executive Chef Daniel Lê and Tuyet Nhi Le have introduced a new unlimited dining experience inspired by Vietnam’s family-style dining traditions. Available Sunday through Thursday for $88.00 per guest and Friday throguh Saturday for $95.00, the menu features unlimited selections from NUE’s main menu, including Chili Wontons, Seafood Chả Giò, Black Pepper Bún, Crispy Xôi Gà, and desserts. Guests can also add an Imperial upgrade for $f39, featuring premium dishes like Wagyu Surf n’ Turf, Lobster Garlic Noodles, and Lemongrass Crusted Lamb. Kids under 4 feet receive half-off pricing, while those under 3 feet dine free; nuevietnamese.comLive Fire at Casa Teresa: Casa Teresa is welcoming fall with a new dinner menu celebrating Spanish traditions and locally sourced ingredients. Highlights include Chuletón de Buey, a 45–60-day dry-aged rib-eye from Maryland’s Roseda Farm; Cabecero de Cerdo, grilled pork collar from Autumn Olive Farms; Paletilla de Cordero Lechal, slow-roasted lamb shoulder carved tableside; and Arrós Negre a la Llauna, squid ink rice with saffron allioli. New cocktails include the Carajillo with local rum, coffee liqueur, and bay leaf foam, and the Aguagilda, a savory martini garnished with a Gilda pintxo; teresadc.comCapital One Fall Edit: Capital One Center is welcoming autumn with The Fall Edit, running now through November 15, featuring seasonal food, drinks, and experiences across Tysons. Highlights include fall cocktails at Sisters Tysons, Fusilli Alla Nerano and a Cherry Spritze at Stellina Pizzeria, seasonal nail art at Nothing in Between, and new cocktails at Wren including the Earl Grey Fizz and tropical Kurogroni. Wren will also host a Fall Cocktail Tasting on October 20 with seasonal cocktails, chef-curated bites, and live entertainment; capitalonecenter.com

Fall drinking season in the DMV has begun and no matter what the calendar says, we're all in (well. some of us, comeback summer!). Wine lists swing toward reds and bigger, bolder whites, spiced and barrel-aged cocktails start showing up on every menu in town, hot toddies and warm ciders make their comeback, and bartenders start leaning into fall ingredients like apple, pear, cinnamon and squash from local farms. Even beer gardens and breweries shift into cool-weather mode with Oktoberfest pours and fire-pit on the patios.Here at TheListAreYouOnIt.com, we've rounded up all the can't-miss fall sipping finds and happenings 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 hereFrom cocktail pop-ups and wine tastings to brewery events + fall beverage happenings around the region, we've got those covered hereLooking for cozy sipping season? Check out our Patio Pleasures + Up On The Roof roundups featuring patios, rooftops, courtyards & outdoor cocktail spots all across the DMV — now with fire pits and blankets.So much more glass-raising goodness below:MARK YOUR CALENDAR Glass in Session: BoozeBruvas is bringing back Glass in Session, a series of hands-on cocktail classes featuring seasonal drinks, special guests, creative activities, and bites. Upcoming classes include Conjuring Spirits (October 29), Autumn Spice featuring Brotha Whiskey (November 8), and Friendssipping (November 19); eatonworkshop.comBest Buddies: Best Buddies Virginia & DC will host Homecoming: Two Parties, One Purpose on Friday, October 30, from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center. The inclusive gala features Best Buddies participants teaming up with local chefs to create tasting dishes, alongside bites from restaurants like Taco Bamba and The Salt Line, live music from Bootsie and the Groove, and a silent auction. Gala tickets are $200.00, with proceeds supporting friendship, employment, and leadership programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. A concurrent $10.00 Student Homecoming Dance will feature a DJ, costume contest, and sensory-friendly activities.; bestbuddies.org20 Years of Central Michel Richard: Central is celebrating its 20th anniversary on Saturday, November 7, at 7:00 p.m. with a special evening honoring the legacy of legendary chef Michel Richard, who opened the restaurant two decades ago. Chefs David Deshaies and Cedric Maupillier, two of Richard’s longtime collaborators, will reimagine his iconic dishes as passed bites, giving guests a taste of the culinary legacy that helped shape Washington’s dining scene. The celebration will also feature an open bar and silent auction. Tickets are $150.00 per person, with proceeds benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which provides treatment and support to families at no cost; opentable.comCapital Food Fight: DC Central Kitchen’s annual Capital Food Fight returns November 12, bringing together top chefs, local restaurants, and celebrity guests for a night of food and friendly competition. This year’s battling chefs include Scheyla Acosta, Anthony Jones, Brian Lacayo, and Robbie Reyes, with appearances by Eric Adjepong, Tiffany Derry, Andrew Zimmern, and more. Guests can enjoy bites from participating restaurants while supporting a great cause, with 100% of event proceeds benefiting DC Central Kitchen’s hunger relief and culinary job training programs; capitalfoodfight.orgFour Seasons DC Wine & Dine: The fifth annual Wine & Dine returns November 12 through 13, bringing together celebrity chefs, local culinary talent, and exceptional wines and spirits in support of MedStar Health’s lung cancer research initiatives. The celebration kicks off November 12 with a Culinary Showcase at Bourbon Steak DC from 6:00 tp 10:00 p.m., featuring chef action stations, passed bites, and wine and spirit tastings from chefs including Michael Mina, Lorena Garcia, Douglas Keane, Quentin Welch, and Jillian Fitch. On November 13, guests can enjoy an intimate 4-course celebrity chef dinner with curated wine pairings; web.cvent.comSovereign Beer Share: DC Beer is hosting its November Beer Share on Sunday, November 15, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at The Sovereign in Georgetown. Craft beer enthusiasts are invited to bring rare or specialty brews to share, sample unique finds, and connect with fellow beer lovers. The event is exclusive to DC Beer members, with memberships available for $5.00 per month through Patreon. Attendees are encouraged to purchase food or drinks from The Sovereign to support the host venue; eventbrite.comNEW & NOTEWORTHY: Gettin’ Cozy: Tucked beneath Michelin-starred The Dabney, this intimate English basement bar offers a more casual take on the restaurant’s award-winning beverage program. Guests can enjoy seasonal cocktails inspired by Mid-Atlantic ingredients, a curated selection of wines and beers, and a raw bar featuring freshly shucked oysters and seafood-focused small plates. The Cellar is open Wednesday through Saturday from 5:00 to 11:00 p.m., with happy hour from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.; thedabney.comJoon x Crosskeys Vineyard - Persian Collab: The modern Persian restaurant in Tysons Corner has partnered with Iranian-owned CrossKeys Vineyards to introduce 2 exclusive Virginia wine blends celebrating Iranian heritage. Parsa, a red blend of Chambourcin, Petit Verdot, and Touriga with notes of red cherries, blueberries, and dried rose petals, pairs with Joon’s Barg and Adana Kabobs. Darya, a white blend of Traminette and Vidal Blanc with notes of grapefruit, rose water, mandarin, and lychee, complements dishes like Whole Roasted Branzino and Ghormeh Sabzi. For every glass sold, $1.00 will benefit Children of Persia, with $5.00 donated from each bottle, supporting Iranian families through health, education, and social services; eatjoon.comMovember Awareness: Pisco y Nazca is raising a glass to men’s health this November with its El Macho cocktail, available at its Dupont Circle, Reston, and Bethesda locations. Inspired by a Manhattan or Old Fashioned, the cocktail features Old Forester Bourbon, rhubarb bitters, agave syrup, sweet vermouth, Ancho Reyes, and Angostura bitters. From November 1 through 30, $1.00 from every El Macho sold will benefit the Movember Foundation, supporting research and awareness around men’s health issues, including prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health; piscoynazca.comMahjong Mondays x Tuesday Whiskey Tastings: The Wise Fool is giving guests more reasons to visit throughout the week with a lineup of food and drink specials. Mahjong Mondays invite guests to bring their own sets and enjoy a cheese and charcuterie board paired with a bottle of wine for $64.00, ideal for a group of 4. On Tuesdays, guests can explore a curated whiskey flight for $25.00, while Sundays feature 50% off bottles of wine. Mahjong Mondays and Tuesday Whiskey Tastings are open to everyone, with no tickets required.; thewisefooldc.comCookie Whiskey: Pittsburgh-based Wigle Whiskey is celebrating 40 years of Eat’n Park’s iconic Smiley Cookie with the launch of Smiley Cookie Whiskey, a new limited-release spirit inspired by the beloved treat. Made with light corn whiskey infused with vanilla beans, the 70-proof whiskey features tasting notes of royal icing, vanilla, and sugar cookie. Released October 27, the whiskey is available for $39.00 per 750 mL bottle at Wigle Distillery, Ross Park Mall Bottle Shop, participating Fine Wine & Good Spirits stores, and online for nationwide shipping. Purchases at Wigle’s two retail locations also include a complimentary Smiley Cookie while supplies last; wiglewhiskey.comLate Night in Bethesda: Chef Mike Friedman’s Roman-inspired restaurant is introducing a new late-night happy hour featuring martinis, beer, wine, and half-priced spritzes. Specials are available in the bar and lounge Sunday throguh Thursday from 8:00 to 9:00 p.m. and Friday through Saturday from 9:00 to 10:00 p.m.; aventinocucina.comNew in the Navy Yard Neighborhood: Restaurateur Daniella Senior’s 5C Hospitality, the team behind Colada Shop and Elegancia, opened Bar Nuestro on October 28 at Urby in Navy Yard. The Latin-rooted, European-inspired bistrot features a creative cocktail program with Build Your Own Martinis, $10 Tiny Tinis, the Fluffy Mango Margarita, and a brown-butter Negroni. Guests can pair their drinks with dishes from Culinary Director Claudio Foschi and Executive Chef Harper McClure, including Yuca Beignets, Oxtail Mafalde, and Pork Chop Milanesa. New weekday happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., featuring cocktails like the Nuestro Spritz, Whiskey Highball, and Espresso Martini, wines, lager, and shareable bites including Arepitas, Concón, and Hand-Cut Pommes Frites. A seven-course Happy Hour Tasting for 2 is also available for $120.00. The kitchen is peanut- and tree nut-free, cooks without seed oils, and uses a dedicated gluten-free fryer; barnuestro.comBoo Alert…Bewitching Cocktails: NoMa’s Mediterranean restaurant Eunoia is celebrating Halloween with 2 limited-time cocktails inspired by the staff’s favorite spooky movies and traditions. The Bewitched combines vodka, lime, pineapple, charcoal, and pomegranate, while the I.C.U. features whiskey, black cherry, ginger liqueur, jalapeño, bitters, and an edible eyeball. Both are available through October 31; eunoiadc.comA Bit o’ Movies: The Bit is hosting weekly Saturday Movie Nights, screening a different film on repeat beginning at 4:00 p.m. Guests can enjoy popcorn, rotating drink specials, and the bar’s full food and cocktail menus. The series kicks off with Beetlejuice, followed by more Halloween favorites throughout October and holiday films in December. Select screenings will be chosen by guest vote, with upcoming titles announced on Instagram. Reservations are available on Resy, with walk-ins welcome; bitdc.comIs Chardonnay and Candy Corn a Good Pairing?: Little Blackbird is getting into the Halloween spirit with 5 candy and wine pairings available October 15th through 31st. Guests can enjoy combinations like Chardonnay & Candy Corn, Lambrusco & Peanut Butter Cups, Snickers & 10-Year Tawny Port, Skittles & Dry Rosé, and Sweet Tarts & Blanc de Blanc; littleblackbirddc.comWinetoberfest: Lulu’s Winegarden is welcoming fall with the return of Winetoberfest from September 18 through November 8, transforming its indoor and outdoor spaces with grape vines, gourds, harvest baskets, and amber-hued foliage. The seasonal pop-up pairs the décor with German, Austrian, and Alsatian wines, cowboy boots filled with Festbier, and fall cocktails like pumpkin pie Negronis, apple cider margaritas, and Concord grape spritzes. The festivities also include a CRUSH walkaround tasting on September 20, featuring unlimited tastes of 25+ fall wines, all-you-can-eat breakfast tacos, and discounted take-home bottles for $55.00 per person, with sessions at 12:00 and 2:00 p.m.; luluswinegarden.com NOT NEW, BUT NOTEWORTHY: Capital Social Hour: Located inside Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill, Article One is introducing Capitol Social Hour, available Monday through Friday from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. The new happy hour features Capitol-inspired cocktails, including the D.C. Sour, Constitutional Collins, House Vote Margarita, Capitol Old Fashioned, and Potomac Mule. Guests can pair their drinks with small plates like the A1 Smash Slider, Chesapeake Bay oysters, baked lobster roll, and crispy garlic chicken, with suggested wine and beer pairings; hyatt.comBourbon x Bone Marrow = Delicious: Blue Duck Tavern Lounge is introducing a new bourbon and bone marrow pairing, available nightly through December 31. Guests can enjoy Chef Andrew Cleverdon’s Wood Oven-Roasted Bone Marrow with onion bordelaise, pink peppercorn, and rye crumble, alongside their choice of Four Roses Single Barrel, Woodford Reserve, or Angel’s Envy bourbon.; blueducktavern.comAutumn-Inspired Cocktails at Nue: NUE is welcoming fall with 4 new cocktails blending seasonal ingredients and Southeast Asian-inspired flavors. Highlights include Verdant Lake with jasmine, bergamot, rum, soursop, and pandan foam; Luck of Autumn with rum, persimmon, and warm spices; Bitter Purity with plum, gin, and tea; and The Forbidden Fruit with apple, Japanese whisky, yuzu, and pine honey. Guests can pair their drinks with comforting dishes like Bò Kho Pappardelle, Chili Oil Wontons, and Coconut Curry Risotto, also available on NUE’s new Unlimited menu; nuevietnamese.com$6 Craft Pours: After more than 15 years in Logan Circle, ChurchKey is launching a new weekday happy hour, Monday through Friday from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Specials include craft beer pours, martinis, Old Fashioneds and daiquiris, and beer flights, plus a burger and fries combo from Chef Hamilton and a mix-and-match deal featuring 3 snacks; churchkeydc.comDrinks with Umami: The Naisho Room at Watermark Hotel is shaking things up with 3 new cocktails. Kira Kira combines Japanese whisky, ginger beer, and citrus for a refreshing sip, while Pearl of the Orient features Roku Gin, Nigori sake, lychee, and a delicate foam. For something more tropical, Placebo blends white rum, amaretto, pineapple, coconut, and honey; thenaishoroom.comTeas’n You: Vietnamese café Teas’n You has opened its 2nd location and first in Maryland in Rockville, serving creative coffee and tea alongside Vietnamese-inspired café fare. The extensive drink menu features Vietnamese-sourced oolong matcha, Vietnamese Egg Coffee, Ube Cream Cold Brew, Strawberry Matcha Dalgona, and seasonal sips like Pumpkin Chai Milk Tea. Food offerings include Basil Popcorn Chicken, a Taiwanese Chicken Sandwich, and house-baked pastries, with an emphasis on options for a range of dietary needs; teasnyou.com

Are you ready for some football?! Who isn't. Around the DMV, football season means more than just the game - duh? -  it means beer buckets, wing towers, rooftop TVs, and every bar in town finding a reason to pour a pitcher special. Whether you're claiming a stool at your team's official DC bar or just looking for the spot with the most screens (and the best happy hour), we've got you covered from kickoff through the final whistle. Here's where to watch, what to order, and who's doing it right this season.Game Day SpecialsAlexandria Bier GardenABG is offering beer bucket specials and football food combos all season long, with the game shown inside at the bar, out in the beer garden, or up on the partially covered rooftop overlooking King Street.Astro Beer HallAstro Beer Hall brings back game day specials to its downtown DC and Northern Virginia outposts, with drink and food deals for NFL and NCAA game days all season long. With 20+ TVs at each location, look for $15 Astro Kolsch pitchers on Saturdays in Shirlington, or $2 off all beers every Sunday downtown.BoulevardMultiple TVs make Boulevard an easy call for football fans, with specials running all week: $29 Steak Frites and half off wine bottles on Wednesdays, $3 off sushi rolls and half off sake on Thursdays, and $3 off apps and drafts Sundays from 5 PM to close.CHIKOSkip the kitchen and order in: a bucket of 20 Korean double-fried chicken wings tossed in spicy soy glaze, $40, feeds the whole watch party. Hours vary by location, so order ahead online.Little EngineStock up for football feasts at home with wings tossed in Guava Glaze or Classic Buffalo, or shareable dishes like the Family Van pack and chicken tenders — everything you need to watch the game from your own couch. Order via website.MadhatterFootball specials run during every NFL game: $4 Madhatter Light and Mich Ultra drafts, $5 NÜTRLs, $16 pitchers, $20 buckets of Bud Light, $25 buckets of NÜTRL and Mich Ultra, and $40 Mich Ultra beer towers, plus food specials under $10 and $25 food towers.Mission Navy YardEvery college and NFL game plays across 23 TVs on two levels, sound on, with DJs taking over after the big ones. Happy hour runs daily and the kitchen stays open late (midnight daily, 1 AM Thursday–Saturday). Official teams: Texas A&M, Iowa, Carolina Panthers, and Atlanta Falcons.ProstProst kicks off NFL Sundays from 1 PM to 10 PM with $12 1L Spaten Drafts and $30 NÜTRL Buckets (5 per bucket) — plenty to go around before kickoff. All Commanders games are shown with sound on.Shaw's TavernFootball specials run during every NFL game: Hushpuppies $10, Pomme Frites $8, Fried Green Tomatoes $10, Red Pizza $12, White Pizza $12, Miller Lite and Yuengling Lager Pitchers $20 each, and a Flight of Deep Eddy Shooters for $18.The AdmiralA top spot to watch football in Dupont Circle, with sound on at every TV — 15 in total, including outdoor screens, covering every college and NFL game. Daily happy hour and a kitchen open late (midnight daily, 1 AM Thursday–Saturday). Official teams: Alabama, TCU, Miami Dolphins.The FallsThe Falls is offering NFL Tailgate specials for takeout, featuring smoked wings, cornbread, deviled eggs, sliders by the dozen, and bundles and sandwich kits packed with appetizers and smoked meats. They also serve happy hour daily from 3–6 PM with games streaming, and BBQ favorites like smoked brisket chili, pulled pork sandwiches, and smoked chicken wings make it a solid game-day stop either way.Whitlow's at the WharfWE ARE! Whitlow's is an official Penn State bar for the 2026 football season, with specials running during every Penn State game and on Sundays from 12:30 PM until midnight — pitchers, cocktails, and bar bites like Cheese Fries, Nachos, Fried Pickles, Popcorn Chicken, and Pretzel Bites.More Places to Watch the GameNot every bar needs a press release to pull a crowd on Sunday, these are the other reliable spots around the DMV to grab a stool and settle in:As You Are – Capitol Hill's queer-owned bar and the Washington Mystics' official home, with women's sports on right alongside NFL SundaysBuena Vida Gastrolounge – Rooftop views and Mexican small plates in ClarendonFranklin Hall – A cavernous U Street beer hall with a 60-foot bar and plenty of room to sprawlHard Rock Cafe – Rock memorabilia and screens galore, steps from the National MallIvy & Coney – Chicago dogs and Detroit coneys in Shaw, with a following among transplanted Bears and Lions fansJake's Tavern – A neighborhood tavern doubling as home base for New England faithful far from FoxboroughJohnny's All American Cafe and Bar – Ohio State-themed game-day energy in Columbia HeightsNellie's Sports Bar – U Street's LGBTQ+ institution, TVs across two floors and a rooftopNick's Riverside Grill – Georgetown waterfront views with the game on and the Potomac right thereOver Under Sports Book Rooftop Lounge – A climate-controlled Mount Vernon Triangle rooftop with 20+ TVs and sound on for the big gamesPenn Social – A massive Penn Quarter hangout with a 22-foot projector screen, arcade games, and pitcher specialsPublic Bar Live – A Dupont Circle Commanders rally spot with 40+ screens and a rooftop that turns up post-gameRustico – Roughly 30 rotating craft taps in Alexandria and Ballston, built for grazing through a full Sunday slateTallboy – Laid-back Shaw bar, cheap beer, no frills, just footballTAP Sports Bar – MGM National Harbor's sportsbook-adjacent bar with dozens of screens and Potomac viewsThe Game Sports Pub – Adams Morgan's late-night option, with drafts, bottles, and whiskeys to spare for West Coast gamesThe Point – A Buzzard Point waterfront spot with a massive patio near Audi Field and Nationals ParkTom's Watch Bar – 120+ screens and three "stadium" screens steps from Capital One Arena in ChinatownUnion Pub – A Capitol Hill go-to and longtime favorite for catching out-of-market NFL gamesUpstate FTW – U Street wings and garbage plates from the Fried Rice Collective, doubling as the neighborhood's Commanders barWalter's Sports Bar – Nearly 40 years in Navy Yard, 30+ TVs inside and out, 24 self-pour tapsWhitlows – See the Wharf write-up aboveYard House – Over 100 taps and wall-to-wall TVs in Chinatown/Penn Quarter, a favorite for out-of-town transplantsHowever you spend your Sundays this fall, beer bucket in hand at a rooftop bar, camped out on your own couch with a Little Engine spread, or elbow-to-elbow at your team's official DC bar, the DMV's got a seat for you. Are you ready for some football? We sure are.

TheListAreYouOnIt's Theatre Guide rounds up what's on stage across the region, from  Broadway favorites, touring productions, bold originals, and everything in between. We love black box gems and the big-house blockbusters. The talent here is the real deal, and you know we're not sending you to a show without a plan for what to eat first. Below, every venue paired with the restaurants worth building your evening around, whether you want a proper sit-down before curtain or a plate waiting for you after. Pro tip: chasing post-show bites? Old Ebbitt Grill's kitchen serves until 1 AM. Curtain down, forks up, people! Arena StageAre You Now, Or Have You Ever Been - October 17 through December 6Step Afrika!’s Magical Musical Holiday Step Show - December 4 through 23 Where to EatDel Mar by Fabio Trabocchi — Chef Fabio Trabocchi's Spanish seafood room sits right on the Wharf waterfront. Go for the whole roasted branzino or a platter of hand-carved Jamón Ibérico, and you're steps from your seat at Arena Stage.Limani — Chef Lonnie Zoeller skips the deep fryer entirely and char-grills whole fish to order. The "Limani chips," fried zucchini and eggplant under a blanket of Greek cheese, are worth ordering twice.Moonraker at the Pendry — The Pendry's rooftop sushi spot trades white tablecloths for skyline views over the Potomac. The Tokyo Fried Chicken during happy hour is a smart pre-show bite, and the bar stays open past most curtain calls.Philippe Chow — Arena Stage's own official dining partner is steps from the door. Chef-owner Philippe Chow's tableside Peking duck is the move, just budget the 45 minutes carving time and order the second you sit down. Capital One HallShows & concerts change regularly. Where to EatModan — Chef Chico Dator, a Nobu alum, dry-ages his own beef and fish for a modern Japanese menu that runs from an omakase counter to easy à la carte. Order accordingly, depending on how much time you've got before curtain.Ometeo — Chefs Gabe Erables and Kyle Bailey put a steakhouse spin on Tex-Mex, and the stuffie tamale — a quahog clam tucked into masa — isn't something you'll find anywhere else in Tysons.Starr Hill Biergarten — No frills, just good German-style pub food and the brewery's own beer on tap. Exactly what you want when you're in and out before a show.Stellina Pizzeria — Founders Matteo Venini and Antonio Matarazzo run their upscale pizza counter right inside Capital One Center, which makes it one of the easiest pre-show stops on this list.Wren — Executive chef Yo Matsuzaki's izakaya menu goes from sashimi to tableside hot-stone A5 Miyazaki wagyu, and the kitchen can run late, a rare post-show option in Tysons. Dupont UndergroundShows and concerts change regularly. Where to EatCasamara — Coastal Mediterranean cooking inside the SIXTY Hotel, a five-minute walk from Dupont Circle. Go for the housemade pasta, then take the party up to the rooftop bar, open till midnight on weekends.Chiko — Chef-owners Scott Drewno and Danny Lee's Chinese-Korean mashup is fast, loud, and built for a pre-show counter meal. The double-fried wings and bulgogi rice cakes are the ones to order.Irongate — Chef Anthony Chittum's Mediterranean menu (Greek, Sicilian, Southern Italian) comes with one of DC's most romantic patios, wisteria vines and all. Save it for a night when you want dinner to be part of the show.The Pembroke — Inside the Dupont Circle Hotel, the lobster bucatini and swordfish have earned it a Michelin mention, a step up from a quick bite without derailing your night. Folger TheatreHamlet — March 2–April 11, 2027The Comedy of Errors — May 18–June 27, 2027 Where to EatChiko — The original CHIKO location, blocks from the Folger. Same Drewno/Lee Chinese-Korean menu, same order-at-the-counter speed.The Duck and the Peach —Executive chef Katarina Petonito's elegant, rustic New American menu turns from café by day to elevated dinner by night. The sumac-rubbed roasted chicken is the kind of dish that makes you linger, so time it right. And do not miss Rochelle Cooper’s desserts.Paraiso — Chef-owner Geovany Beltran, who grew up in a mezcalero family in Guerrero, Mexico, runs a taqueria worth detouring for. The al pastor tacos on house tortillas are the standard-bearer.Quill and Crumb — The Folger's own café stays open through intermission, which makes it the most literal pre-or-post-show option on this entire list, soups, sandwiches, and baked goods without ever leaving the building. Plus - the place is beautiful. Ford's TheatreA Christmas Carol - November 19 through December 31The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee - March 13 through May 15, 2027 Where to EatJaleo — José Andrés's Spanish tapas pioneer is a few steps from Ford's. Order a round of small plates and a paella to share, and you'll never miss curtain.Moon Rabbit — Chef Kevin Tien's reimagined Vietnamese menu earned a spot on the Washington Post's essential dishes list and Pastry Chef Susan Bae is a James Beard Award Winner. Just note the kitchen's closed Sundays, so plan around a matinee accordingly.Succotash Prime — Chef Edward Lee's Southern-inflected steakhouse brings a little Kentucky swagger to Penn Quarter, hearty enough for a proper pre-show dinner.The Riggs Hotel — Chef Wolfgang Birk now runs the kitchen at Café Riggs — go big with the 28-gram Golden Kaluga Caviar service (brioche, crème fraîche, chives), or keep it lighter with the Tagliatelle, Crab, Sweet Tomato, and Basil. National TheatreMama Mia - October 27 through November 15The Hip Hop Nutcracker - November 17 through 22Alicia Keys’ Hell’s Kitchen - November 24 through December 6Waitress - December 8 through 13Hamilton - December 16, 2026 through February 7, 2027 Where to EatCafé du Parc — Chef Gyo Santa's French bistro at the Willard is built for exactly this: French onion soup and steak frites within walking distance of National, Ford's, and Warner.Old Ebbitt Grill — The raw bar and jumbo lump crab cakes have made this DC's classic pre-theatre standby for generations. The kitchen runs until 1 AM, so post-show works just as well.The Occidental — Chef Neil O'Connell revived this historic power-dining room with a menu that swings from crab-stuffed avocado to tableside Bananas Foster. Reserve ahead.Vue Rooftop at Hotel Washington — Skyline views near the White House, crab cakes and truffle fries on the menu, and a bar that runs late Thursday through Saturday, good for capping the night after the show. Olney TheatreSome Like It Hot — September 18 through November 8, 2026 A Christmas Carol; one-person show ft Kimberly Gilbert - December 2, 2026 through January 2, 2027Kimberly Akimbo — March 18 through April 25, 2027 Doubt: A Parable — June 2 through July 11, 2027 Where to EatBrew Belly — A craft-beer gastropub with a Philly cheesesteak the Washington Post called worth the drive to Olney on its own, casual and quick before a show.Olney Station — Burgers, pub fare, and cocktails, no fuss required. A reliable stop when you just need dinner on the table before curtain.Salt and Vine — Chef Thomas Zippelli's chef-driven Italian trattoria turns out handmade pastas (squid ink included) and flame-grilled market cuts, worth arriving early for.Scratch Kitchen — Owner Bernie Rousseau's women-led Latin bistro blends European technique with New World flavor. The pupusas and Peruvian fried rice are a genuinely different pre-show option out here. Round House TheatreCult of Love - November 18 through December 27 Where to EatAventino — Chef-owner Michael Friedman, brings seasonal Roman cooking to Bethesda with delicious housemade pastas and market-fresh fish, built for sharing before a show.Cubano's — Classic Cuban comfort food like tostones, ropa vieja, a properly made flan. Very easy and satisfying before curtain.Mon Ami Gabi — Chef Andrew Fleischauer's classic French bistro just reopened on Bethesda Row, steak frites, onion soup au gratin, escargots de Bourgogne. Make reservations for this one,The Salt Line — Chef Kyle Bailey's New England-inspired seafood spot does a serious raw bar. The Dancing Molly oysters are a Harris Creek collaboration you won't find elsewhere in Bethesda.Sushi Masato — Husband-and-wife team Raymond and Amy Yu have turned the former Tako Grill space into a Bethesda gem for traditional nigiri, sashimi and specialty rolls, including Osaka-style pressed sushi. Save room for Hokkaido milk soft serve or a Japanese cake from their adjoining shop, The One Cake.  Signature TheatreAll The World’s a Stage - October 20 to December 20 Where to EatCarlyle — An art-deco New American bistro with bread baked in-house via Best Buns next door. The buttermilk fried chicken sandwich is a Shirlington staple for good reason.Our Mom Eugenia — Eugenia Markesini Hobson cooks the Greek recipes she learned from her grandmother on Zakynthos. Plan on scratch-made, unfussy, and exactly what a neighborhood taverna should be.Stellina Pizzeria Shirlington — Same Venini-Matarazzo pizza program as their other locations, upscale-casual and reliably good, an easy, quick option in Shirlington's restaurant row. Studio TheatreWish You Were Here - through November 1Wilderness Generation - November 18, 2027 through January 3, 2027 Where to EatCork Wine Bar & Market — One of 14th Street's original wine bars, built around small plates and a serious list. A low-key, unhurried way to start the evening.Jane Jane — An intimate cocktail bar with well-crafted classics, savory bites, and — famously — Cheez-Its instead of bar nuts. A fun, low-key pre-show hang rather than a full sit-down.Le Diplomate — Stephen Starr's Parisian brasserie has anchored 14th Street for over a decade. The steak frites and raw bar are the reasons it's still packed a decade in.Mallard — Chef Hamilton Johnson's refined Southern menu (sweetbreads and waffles, anyone?) took over the old Birch & Barley space in 2024 and made it worth a special trip. Beer lover, Churchkey is right upstairs, ready to satiate your toughest beer fiend. Shakespeare Theatre Co.Frida…A Self Portrait — October 8 through November 8, 2026A Midsummer Night's Dream — December 4, 2026 through January 10, 2027A Raisin in the Sun — January 23 through February 28, 2027Romeo and Juliet — April 23 through May 16, 2027 Follies — Spring 2027 Where to EatLucky Danger — Chef-owner Tim Ma's Chinese-American flagship comes with crab lo mein and a mahjong lounge attached, good for a livelier pre-show crowd.Oyamel — José Andrés's modern Mexican small plates and a serious mezcal program make this an easy Penn Quarter go-to before a show.Rosselli — Restaurateur Ashok Bajaj and chef Carlos Cardona's new Italian spot, open since spring 2026 in the old Modena space, does a Vitello Milanese worth planning your night around.Zaytinya — José Andrés's Turkish-Greek-Lebanese mezze menu is built for sharing,  order a spread across the table and you'll still make curtain. Synetic TheaterSleepy Hollow - November 14 through 22 Where to EatBar Colline — The Hilton brothers' French bistro in National Landing features shareable plates, good wine, an easy pre-show stop close to Synetic.Beauty Champagne and Sugar Boutique — Owner Zena Polin curates the Champagne list and bakes the desserts herself,  a sweet, sparkling detour before or after the show.Ni Hao — Chef Peter Chang's tapas-style Chinese menu brings his signature heat to National Landing, order a few plates to share and pace yourselves before curtain.Water Bar — Part of the National Landing waterpark complex, with a solid raw bar and a crispy shrimp po'boy this place is casual, fast, and easy on the way to Synetic. Theatre JNew show info coming soon Where to EatEtto — A no-reservations, no-celebrity-chef wood-fired pizzeria on 14th Street. Quick and exactly what you want when you're squeezed for time before a show.Iron Gate — Chef Anthony Chittum's wisteria-covered patio is one of DC's most romantic settings for Mediterranean cooking, worth the extra time if your evening isn't rushed.Hank's Oyster Bar — Chef-owner Jamie Leeds' "urban beach food" like oysters, a proper lobster roll is a fast, satisfying stop near Theatre J. Warner TheatreWashington Ballet's Go-Go 50 - October 30 through November 1Washington Balelt's The Nutcracker - November 28 through December 27 Where to EatCentral Michel Richard — The late Michel Richard's bistro classics live on under the current kitchen, and there's a dedicated pre-theatre menu Monday through Saturday from 4:30 to 6:30, about as convenient as it gets for a Warner Theatre show.The Hamilton — A sprawling American menu (the Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice is the one people remember) paired with live music of its own — good for a group that can't agree on one thing.The Henri —A French-Belgian bistro built around a rotisserie and a seasonal, farmer-driven menu, carrying on the vision of the late Chef Frederik De Pue — spacious enough for a pre-show group. Woolly MammothHanukkah Spectacular — November 14 through December 13 Ten Grand — February 1 through 28, 2027Bobby Robotowitz — March 29 through April 25, 2027Love I Awethu Further — June 1 through 27, 2027 Where to EatAltair — Tucked inside the Arlo hotel, Executive Chef Carson Johansson’s elemental New American restaurant cooks hyper-seasonally around a live wood-fired oven. Grab a pre-show cocktail at the bar or a table in the glass-enclosed atrium.Centrolina — Chef Amy Brandwein's seasonal Italian kitchen, tucked inside CityCenterDC's Palmer Alley, is a short walk from Woolly Mammoth and worth the James Beard buzz it keeps collecting.Lucky Danger — Chef Tim Ma's elevated Chinese-American classics come with DC's only public mahjong bar attached — a fun way to open a night at Woolly Mammoth.Rasika — Chef Vikram Sunderam's James Beard-winning Indian menu is practically next door to the theater. The Palak Chaat and Black Cod are the dishes everyone orders, for a reason. 

Catch Nycci Nellis on FOX 5 chatting National Pizza Month eats at Westfield Montgomery, where you can discover a whole variety of pizza styles without leaving Maryland ... New Haven, Maryland-style, New York, and California, all under one roof.We mean, October gives us an excuse to eat more pizza, and we're calling it research.Press play for Frank Pepe's coal-fired apizza, Ledo's square Maryland-style pies, Andy's Pizza with its 72-hour dough, and California Pizza Kitchen's Original BBQ Chicken Pizza. There's no single definition of a great pie, so tell us which one you'd pick. Find the segment on our Mirepoix page.

Okay, fall, we see you. A chandelier the size of a compact car, a beer hall rising from the dead, and DC's first-ever Haitian fine dining spot, all before Halloween. This town does not do a quiet season.  Good thing, neither do we. Here's what has us the most excited this fall, in alphabetical order (because ranking my favorites would start a fight). and toum: Tariq Alaeddin, founder of NAJA Mediterranean, is launching and toum, a broasted chicken concept built around his lifelong love of toum, the whipped Lebanese garlic sauce. Operating out of NAJA Mediterranean as a takeout- and delivery-only concept, the menu is deliberately tiny: halal broasted chicken and four takes on toum (classic, extra-garlicky Ezbicy, a toum-Zhoug hybrid called Zoum, and a rotating limited-edition flavor). The sauce itself will also be sold for guests to take home.2911 District Avenue, Fairfax, VAOpening: Early Fall Bajo: Husband-and-wife chefs Max Rivera and Sarah Montell of Hambre Hospitality are bringing a moody Spanish-Japanese restaurant and listening bar to Blagden Alley in Shaw, taking over the subterranean space left behind by Never Looked Better. Expect tapas, yakitori, and crudo built at the intersection of Iberian and Japanese technique, backed by a Spanish and Catalan wine program, a sake list, and vinyl spun by DJs. Rivera's resume spans six countries and Michelin-starred kitchens, including a stint as opening executive chef at Cana and, most recently, José Andrés's minibar.130 Blagden Alley NW, Washington, DCOpening: Late October Bar Nuestro: Colada Shop founder Daniella Senior's newest venture is a Latin-rooted, European-inspired bistro landing in Navy Yard, reimagining classic European dishes through a Latin American lens inside a sleek, tiled, design-forward space. It's the first opening under her newly formed 5C Hospitality group, which also includes Union Market's cocktail bar Elegancia.1331 Yards Place SE, Washington, DCOpening: Targeting October 20 The Berliner: Popal Group (Lapis, Lapop, Maison Bar à Vins) revives its dearly missed German beer hall, which closed in Georgetown back in 2022, with a new home in Adams Morgan inside the former Mellow Mushroom space. Expect the same hearty sausages, soft pretzels, and long rotating tap list that made the original a neighborhood fixture.2436 18th Street NW, Washington, DCOpening: October Bizzeria: Chef Michael Rafidi, the James Beard-nominated force behind Albi and La'Shukran, finally gives his wood-fired pizzas a permanent home. The pies — currently only a part-time offering at his Georgetown Levantine cafe Yellow — come from pastry chef Alicia Wang, whose dough gets a 48-hour fermentation, alongside a lineup of meze, charcuterie, and natural wine.3246 Prospect Street NW, Washington, DCOpening: Fall Botiwalla by Chai Pani: The James Beard Award-winning team behind Union Market's Chai Pani DC brings its casual, fast-following sister concept to Tenleytown: charcoal-grilled kababs of chicken tikka, lamb, masala fish, and paneer, wrapped in buttered naan or piled onto rice bowls, plus the chaats that made Chai Pani famous (Masala Smashed Potatoes, Okra Fries) and the iconic Vada Pav. Chef-owner Meherwan Irani is having a big fall all around — his debut cookbook comes out September 22.4000 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, DCOpening: Fall Brisa: Carlos Delgado, the in-demand Peruvian chef behind Michelin-starred Causa and hand-roll bar Maru San — brings a breezy coastal Latin showpiece to Buzzard Point near Audi Field, from Eaternity Hospitality (the Wharf's La Vie and Kinfolk). Expect ceviche, barbacoa ribs, and lomo saltado, with cocktails from Bolivian bar director Paola Salinas.2121 1st Street SW, Washington, DCOpening: Late October Capellini's: Chef Mike Cordero opens a sister restaurant to his beloved Arlington spot Carbonara in Ashburn's Brambleton Town Center, bringing Northern Italian cooking, thick cream sauces, house pastas, a serious wine list — out to Loudoun County.Address: 22850 Brambleton Plaza, Ashburn, VAOpening: September  Chandelier: The long-dormant Del Frisco's space on Pennsylvania Avenue transforms into a super-luxe American steakhouse from Keystone Hospitality Group (Promod Sharma, Jyoti Mahajan, Kamal Azzouz, Joseph Azzouz, and Anthony Azzouz — the trio of brothers behind Urban Roast). The design leans hard into spectacle: a 30-foot custom chandelier over the dining room, a waterfall with fire elements, and seating for 40 at the bar, 180 inside, 77 on the patio, plus a 30-seat private room with its own entrance. Premium cuts, seafood, and a curated wine list round out the menu.1201 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DCOpening: October Charcuteria: Eugene Beckley and Katie Catalano bring a Mediterranean market, wine bar, and gathering place to Shaw, inspired by their travels through Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, and Porto. Expect charcuterie and cheese boards, small plates, conservas, and schiacciata sandwiches, paired with a wine list built around natural, organic, and biodynamic bottles — heavy on women-owned and women-led wineries — plus a serious vermouth and aperitivo program, a wine club, tastings and classes, and an outdoor spritz garden.Address: 2104 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DCOpening: October  Ebbitt House: Old Ebbitt Grill — the marquee moneymaker inside Clyde's Restaurant Group, sitting across from the White House for generations — gets its first-ever offshoot, out in Reston. Expect the same American classics and famous raw bar in a 260-seat dining room with two bars, plus a 125-seat patio with a bar of its own. GM Ajay Bhatia and executive chef Diego Ramirez both previously ran the former Clyde's of Reston, which closed in 2022 after a 30-year run.1860 Reston Row Plaza, Reston, VAOpening: Mid-October Electric Bull: Chef Victor Albisu  of fast-casual chain Taco Bamba, and formerly of BLT Steak and his own Del Campo  returns to sit-down steakhouse roots with an Argentinian grill and butcher shop in his hometown of Vienna. Look for hanger, flank, and flat iron steaks, South American-style short ribs, sweetbreads, a family chorizo recipe, and the rolled skirt steak that beat Bobby Flay on his own show. Albisu tapped James Beard-nominated master butcher Justin Severino (Morcilla) as a partner and Adam Hoffa (formerly of Arlington's Pirouette) as executive chef.176 Maple Avenue West, Vienna, VAOpening: September Itiyah: A 20-seat tasting room in Shaw claims the title of DC's first-ever Haitian fine dining restaurant. Chef Sebastien Salomon, who previously cooked at the White House and the Haitian Embassy, builds prix-fixe courses around dishes like coconut-milk brioche and grilled pigeon with caramelized leeks and breadfruit puree, leaning on epis, the herby paste at the heart of Haitian cooking.1416 11th Street NW, Washington, DCOpening: Fall Kneads Bakeshop: The acclaimed Baltimore bakery and cafe takes over the high-profile space at the foot of the Thompson Hotel, previously home to Danny Meyer's Maialino Mare. The 5,500-square-foot buildout includes a pastry counter, full-service bar, a dedicated remote-work area, and a sprawling patio, with all-day service from breakfast through dinner. Expect the Baltimore favorites to make the trip south — creme brulee doughnuts, pistachio baklava croissants, Basque cheesecakes.221 Tingey Street SE, Washington, DCOpening: October Major Yum: DC chef Scott Chung takes over the storied space that formerly housed Filipino standout Bad Saint with an Asian fast-casual concept built on his Chinese and Korean cooking, honed at Bun'd Up, Sparrow Room, and Rice Crook. The signature dish, "Chung's Chicken," mashes up General Tso's with Korean fried chicken, and every dish arrives with house-made banchan-style pickled vegetables. Preview pop-ups are already running this fall at Kuya Ja, Morena Cafe, Timber Pizza, and Little Engine.3226 11th Street NW, Washington, DCOpening: Fall Maurizio’s: Ted Xenohristos, co-founder of fast-casual Mediterranean chain Cava, brings a modern Italian restaurant to Potomac Village, in the former home of Renato's. Executive chef Aris Tsekouras runs a menu of starters, pastas, and mains — rosemary focaccia, fritto misto, linguine and clams, grilled branzino — plus a dedicated Negroni bar menu. The design, from HapstakDemetriou+ and CedarHouse Creative, leans into greens, florals, terracotta floors, and reclaimed wood.Address: 10120 River Road, Potomac, MDOpening: September/October Prato: One of Florida's most acclaimed restaurants makes its first expansion out of Winter Park, landing at Bethesda Row. Prato's 14-year run in Florida built a reputation on creative riffs on Italian tradition inside a vibrant, communal dining room, with a long bar, window-paned doors, and year-round patio seating.Bethesda Row, Bethesda, MDOpening: Fall Skillette: Founder Kelly Singer opens her first permanent studio for Skillette, a DC-based cooking school and culinary lifestyle house, in a Georgetown space inspired by Parisian culinary culture — and sharing a building with Bizzeria, above. The 1,525-square-foot space houses a cooking school, an atelier, and a gathering room, offering a core technique curriculum, a five-day Mid-Atlantic Culinary Program, seasonal classes, chef residencies, kids' programs, and private events.3246 Prospect Street NW, Washington, DCOpening: September/October Spicewalla: The Asheville-based spice brand known for its colorful tins opens its second retail outpost in Georgetown, right next to fellow Asheville transplant East Fork Pottery. Expect an immersive sensory experience stocking 250-plus individual spices and 60-plus exclusive blends, all roasted, ground, and packed by hand. A sibling opening to Botiwalla by Chai Pani, above, from the same team.1317 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, DCOpening: Fall Taki Taki & Rumba Rumba: Restaurateur Rajiv Chopra debuts two concepts under one roof in Capitol Hill's former Crazy Aunt Helen's space: Taki Taki, a modern South Asian restaurant on the first floor, and Rumba Rumba, a global tapas and cocktail lounge upstairs. Taki Taki leans into vibrant spices and refined technique; Rumba Rumba is built for sharing and socializing with an eclectic, globally inspired menu.713 8th Street SE, Washington, DCOpening: Fall Twosome Place: South Korea's leading premium dessert cafe brand makes its U.S. debut in Old Town Alexandria. The 2,600-square-foot cafe centers on Twosome Place's pairing of specialty coffee and cake — including its trademark-registered Strawberry Chocolate Cream Cake and bestselling Ice Box Cake — alongside Korean-inspired drinks (Dalgona Cream Top, Black Sesame Latte, Misugaru Frappe) and an all-day menu of K-Toast, K-Chicken Panini, and Bibimbowl.404 King Street, Alexandria, VAOpening: Mid-October And That's Just What We Know So FarFall openings have a habit of sneaking up on us!  A soft open here, a quiet ribbon-cutting there, so consider this a starting point, not the whole story. Keep checking TheListAreYouOnIt.com's Coming Soon page as dates firm up and new names get added to the list. See you at the bar.

Summer was busy. Like, blink-and-you-missed-it busy. Steakhouses, supper clubs, rooftop rum bars, the DMV did not slow down just because it was 95+ degrees outside. Summer in the DMV moves fast,  one minute you're grabbing patio drinks, and the next there are ninety new places to eat and you haven't been to a single one. So here it is: everything that opened its doors across DC, Maryland, and Virginia in June, July, and August, pulled from TheListAreYouOnIt.com's openings coverage. Grab a pen (or just bookmark this), because you've got some catching up to do. What did you miss? We got you: Agora Bethesda: Betul and Ismail Uslu opened their third and largest Agora yet inside the Hyatt Regency Bethesda, with a private room for 50, semi-private space for up to 120, and patio seating for 100 of Turkish, Greek, and Lebanese mezze.One Bethesda Metro Center, Bethesda, MD Bernadette’s  Upstairs from the Oak Room, this champagne-soaked supper club from chef Timothy Hollingsworth and beverage director Julian Cox (the same Ten Five Hospitality team) pours roughly 40 grower Champagnes alongside live piano and jazz most nights — think a Parisian nightclub that never got the memo it's 2026.1218 Wisconsin Avenue NW Bourbon Steak's Lounge: Michael Mina's 18-year-old lounge at the Four Seasons Georgetown relaunched August 15 after a $1.5 million renovation, with head bartender Engidawork "Engi" Alebachew and head sommelier Winn Roberton pouring a truffle-brined dirty martini and a wagyu-fat-washed smoked Manhattan.2800 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Call Your Mother: Founders Andrew Dana and Daniela Moreira's beloved bagel shop (formerly mobile-trolley-only in Bethesda) opened its first permanent Bethesda storefront in the old Hardwood Artisans space.4828 St. Elmo Ave, Bethesda, MD Croix: Atop the Cambria Hotel in Navy Yard, Corporate Director of Culinary and Concept Design Keem Hughley and Chef de Cuisine Malika King built a rooftop Caribbean concept rooted in St. Croix heritage — breadfruit, callaloo, sorrel — with a "Botanic Bar" anchored by a backlit wall of ten house-infused Caribbean botanicals and a deep rum list, plus an outdoor extension called Croix Veranda.69 Q Street SW Duke's Burgers: Daniel Kramer's Duke's Grocery brought its fast-casual burger offshoot, with Wagyu and Impossible patties, to National Landing, kiosk-ordering style.1621 Crystal Drive, Arlington, VA The Grace: Sanjay Mandhaiya (Pappe, Karavaan) pivoted hard into American saloon territory, taking over the old Passenger space and keeping the taxidermy antelope, "Gary," as a mascot. Chef Courtney Evans (a Next Gen Chef alum and former Rose's Luxury sous chef) works Afro-Southern-leaning pub food, while director of beverage Stefan Sokic pours house-pressed-sugarcane daiquiris and a reworked Passenger classic.1539 7th Street NW La Merna: Husband-and-wife team G. Bradley Shorten and Meg Schmitt opened a Chicago tavern-style pizza spot in Dupont Circle, scratch-making their own cheese and pouring classics-rooted cocktails in a room dressed in vintage Chicago and DC finds.2153 P St NW, Washington, DC Little Birdie: Matt Sloan and Eric Brannon's crew (Matt & Tony's All Day Kitchen + Bar) opened a chicken sandwich spot in Alexandria's Del Ray, working with local bakers for Japanese milk buns.Address: 1504B Mount Vernon Ave, Alexandria, VA The Oak Room: James Beard-winning chef Timothy Hollingsworth (former chef de cuisine at The French Laundry) brought a Gilded Age steakhouse to Georgetown, all koji-rubbed prime rib, Dover sole, and raw bar plateaus under Ten Five Hospitality. Beverage director Julian Cox runs the cocktail program around five old-fashioned variations and classic martinis, while wine director Taylor Parsons curates the 400-bottle cellar leaning Burgundy and Napa Cab.1218 Wisconsin Avenue NW Oribu: Grand Hyatt Washington's new flagship restaurant chases the Silk Road, blending Japanese precision with Mediterranean warmth under Executive Chef Gerard Spezio and Chef de Cuisine Joevel Magpantay — think jet-fresh sushi under a curved rattan chandelier, with a sake- and Japanese-spirit-driven bar program to match.1000 H St NW Public Interest: Inside the new Tempo by Hilton downtown, this modern American brasserie blends French brasserie tradition with American comfort, with a bar program described as reimagined classics with "a distinct DC edge."1776 K Street NW The Riggsby: Michael Schlow's beloved Riggsby is back after a roughly seven-year hiatus, reopened inside the Royal Sonesta Dupont Circle following a $6 million redesign by Edit Lab by Streetsense. Chopped salad, schnitzel alla Holstein, and Swedish meatballs anchor the menu, with a bar built around Manhattans, martinis, and an off-menu bar burger locals are already whispering about.2121 P Street NW Slice & Pie: Parks at Walter Reed: Giulio Adriani expanded his 14th Street pizzeria with a second, larger location serving pizza, paninis, and smash burgers, seating 26.1155 Dahlia St NW, Washington, DC Sushi Masato: Husband-and-wife team Raymond and Amy Yu opened a family-run Japanese spot with three tiers of omakase ($58/$78/$98) and a sake, beer, and wine list.4914 Hampden Ln, Bethesda, MD The Sweet District: Frost & Flourish's Audrey Angeles and Just Ron Chocolate's Aaron Salvador teamed up on a dessert and gourmet chocolate shop with a Filipino-inspired Halo-Halo, inside Arlington's UPSIDE on Moore food hall.Address: 1700 N Moore St, Arlington, VA Sweetlane by Sweetgreen: The DC area's first Sweetgreen drive-thru — order-ahead salads and grain bowls, no lingering required.6220 Old Dominion Dr, McLean, VA (Chesterbrook Shopping Center) Tam Tam Brunch and Dinner: Thao Tran and Tin Truong elevated Eden Center dining beyond casual pho, serving Southern and Central Vietnamese hot pots and crudo alongside house-made fish sauce from a family recipe — Vietnamese cocktails are "coming soon," but the tea program (kumquat rock sugar, passionfruit honey) is already running.6767 Wilson Blvd, Falls Church, VA (Eden Center) Tenley Provisions: Three concepts! Sofie's (crêpes/breakfast), Bistro Metzger (chef Colin Graham, a Wolfgang Puck alum), and El Jefe Woodfired Pizza (chef/founder Edwin Garcia) all share one roof in the old Steak 'n Egg space, a platform built for independent chef-operators.4700 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC Wheelhouse: Bo Blair's Georgetown Events Hospitality Group (Millie's, Surfside, Jetties) opened a vintage-yacht-club seafood spot on upper Connecticut Avenue under Executive Chef David Scribner, complete with a 33-foot bar slinging yacht-rock-themed cocktails and a Gifford's (Maine) ice-cream takeout window for the boardwalk crowd who never left Chevy Chase. 5714 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC  Xi'an Famous Foods: The NYC noodle chain opened its first full-service DC-area storefront (Rockville to follow in October), pulling hand-pulled noodles and dumplings under a no-tipping policy.2800 Clarendon Blvd, Arlington, VA And Just Like That, September's Already MovingDon't get too comfortable, the DMV didn't take a breath between seasons. We're only a few days into September and several new restaurants have already thrown open their doors across the region. Keep tabs on all of it over at TheListAreYouOnIt.com's openings page, updated constantly with everything new to eat and drink around town, so you're never the last one to know.