If you haven’t been to National Landing lately, here’s the thing, you don’t know it anymore. What used to feel like a commuter corridor between Crystal City and Pentagon City has been completely reimagined into National Landing. This walkable neighborhood has been reimagined for how we actually want to work, live & play. And at the center of it all? Crystal Drive. This is not a “pop in, pop out” situation. This is a wander, sip, snack, repeat kind of place. The kind of neighborhood where you come for one thing and somehow end up staying for three hours. Where to Eat & Drink Let’s start here, because this is what’s really driving the energy on Crystal Drive right now. You can build a full crawl here without repeating yourself, moving from cocktails to full meals, all within a few blocks. Start at Bar Chinois. Cocktails and dumplings are the move. Soup dumplings, chili oil wontons, bao, all coming out hot. Drinks lean citrusy with a little heat and the room keeps the energy up. Right nearby, Bar Colline shifts the tone. French bistro classics like steak frites, onion soup, and a proper burger. This is where you slow down, order a glass or a bottle, and stay a while. Then there’s NiHao from the Peter Chang family. This is your anchor stop. The menu is built for sharing; the famous scallion pancakes, the crispy, wood-fired Peking duck, do not skip the dry-fired eggplant or the tofu skin salad. The table fills up fast and you figure it out as you go. Layer in spots like Queen Mother’s Kitchen for spicy fried chicken, Surreal for creative takes on familiar dishes, Good Stuff Eatery for a big ol’burger, and Tacombi when tacos and aguas frescas are the move. Toastique covers your smoothies, juices, and lighter daytime options. And then there's the Water Bar at the Water Park. Raw bar, seafood, cocktails, and a view over the park. This is where you land when you’re done moving and ready to stay awhile — see more below. Coffee & Pastry Break One thing National Landing gets very right? Daytime. You don’t have to commit to a full meal here. There are enough strong coffee and pastry stops to build into your day and keep moving. Start at Daydrift Coffee. It’s part café, part bookstore, part hangout. The coffee program is thoughtful, with drinks like pandan matcha and pistachio honey lattes. But the move is the egg sandwich, custard-y eggs, melted cheese, all on a roll that holds up. Easy to settle in here longer than planned. And Colada Shop is where you lean into Cuban flavors. Start with a cortado or café con leche, grab a guava cheese pastry, and don’t skip the Cubano (roast pork, ham, Swiss, pickles, mustard, pressed until crisp). If you’re still around later, the patio and rum cocktails are always a good idea. Then there’s Tatte Bakery & Cafe. A chain, yes, but always consistent. Go for the pastries like the pistachio croissants, the kouign-amann, anything buttery, really.  The shakshuka holds its own and the sandwiches are served on house-baked bread. WHERE TO SHOP (AND YES, THIS IS PART OF THE PLAN) This is where Crystal Drive quietly wins, it’s curated and it fits into the flow of the day. Oh, Flight Wine Shop. Owned by Swati Bose and Kabir Amir (of the former Flight Wine Bar), this is a bottle shop built around discovery. The selection leans small-production and minimal-intervention, and the staff will actually guide you to something you didn’t know you wanted. You can build your entire night for later. Cheese, charcuterie, tinned fish, pantry snacks, it’s all there. Walk out with a bottle and everything you need for a night of sips and noshes. Plant people, this is your spot. PLNTR, from husband-and-wife duo James Beach and Caitlin Tuttle, goes way beyond your typical plant shop. Yes, you can shop for everything from tiny greens to big statement plants, but you can also get your hands dirty with terrarium builds, repotting classes, and seasonal workshops. It’s equal parts shop and experience, and it’s hard to leave. And don’t skip Daydrift (mentioned above) for their  curated selection of literary fiction and bestsellers. So much browsing to do. If you need a bit of a glow-up, there’s the Drybar National Landing for a quick blowout, and sit for a quick mani/pedi at Nailsaloon  WHERE TO WALK (OR BIKE IT OFF) Crystal Drive is built for wandering, and so is the Mount Vernon Trail which runs about 18 miles along the Potomac River, stretching from George Washington’s Mount Vernon up to Theodore Roosevelt Island. From National Landing, it’s so easy: Head north → views of DC and bridges Head south → Alexandria and quieter stretches It’s flat, paved, and built for walking, running, or biking. Easy to make this a natural extension of the day. The Water Park,  The Anchor This is the anchor at National Landing. The Water Park is an open-air park built around a central water feature, with a stage and plenty of green space and seating. It works as an outdoor food hall with the the ability to sit and sty or grab and go. but feels more like a place to settle in. The kiosk lineup is amazing. Grab a burrito from Monstera, a drink from Spot of Tea, or mix and match across Call Your Mother, Falafel Inc., PhoWheels, Queen Mother’s, DC Dosa, Dolci Gelati, and more. And then there’s the upstairs move, The Water Bar. Water Bar sits right on top of the park’s water wall, looking out over the fountain and everything happening below. It’s a full service restaurant and bar with a focus on seafood and a solid raw bar. Think oysters, lobster rolls, crab cakes, lobster mac and cheese, cocktails all with a view, and this is where you land and after a few rounds you are probably staying.  IT’S ALL ABOUT THE PROGRAMMING  At the Water Park at National Landing, the programming is what turns it from a place you pass through into somewhere you actually want to plan around. Pink Beats is currently wrapping up on Thursdays. It featured  Outdoor DJ sets and a built-in happy hour crowd.   Live Music + Seasonal Activations: As the weather warms up, you’ll see more casual programming from live music, small pop-ups, and community events that keep the space active. Daytime Use (Don’t Overlook It): During the day, it’s a completely different vibe, coffee in hand, people working, meeting, passing through. It works just as well at 11am as it does at 7pm. If you time it right, you’re walking into something already happening.   National Landing, so easy to Work. Live. & Play.

Sometimes you just need to get out of town for a minute, and an overnight in Charm City can absolutely hit the spot. Baltimore has long been known for its world-famous, filler-free crab cakes and that iconic Orange Crush, but the food scene here goes way beyond the classics. The neighborhoods each bring their own personality, from the cobblestone streets of Fells Point to the creative energy in Remington and the cultural hub of Mount Vernon. Toss in pit beef, Berger cookies, historic markets, and a thriving restaurant scene, and Baltimore is always a good idea. On this quick trip, we packed a lot into about twenty hours. First stop after driving in was Pink Flamingo. I’ve been hearing so much about this tropical rum bar in Remington from Brendan Dorr and Eric Fooy, the team behind Dutch Courage. The cocktail list is serious, but the vibe is all fun. I ordered the Fire Blend with tequila, blood orange, Calabrian chili honey, lime, and a spiced rim. If you know me, you know cocktails can sometimes be a little too sweet for my taste, but this one had just the right balance of heat, citrus, and spice. What surprised me most were the snacks. The Spam chips with onion dip? Ridiculously good and exactly the kind of bar bite you want with a great drink. From there we checked into the Kimpton Hotel Monaco, which I hadn’t visited in a while. It’s still a fantastic place to stay. Centrally located, recently refreshed, and perfect for a quick Baltimore basecamp. Before dinner we popped into La Jetée, Spike Gjerde’s new brasserie, and grabbed seats at the bar for a glass of wine. Sometimes the best travel tip is chatting with the bartender, and this one happily pointed us toward the must-order dishes at our dinner spot. Dinner that night was at Marta in Butchers Hill, Chef Matthew Oetting’s intimate Italian restaurant. We leaned into some of the standout dishes starting with the butter board, which is exactly as indulgent as it sounds. The steak tartare, punctuated with beets and finished with pistachio and the Caesar salad arrived topped with delicate curls of Parmesan. Lastly, we shared the tagliatelle tartufo with housemade pasta, truffle cream, preserved truffles, and Parmesan zabaglione. Perfect evening for a cozy dinner.  But a nightcap was calling. So we headed to Southpaw, a neighborhood favorite just off the beaten path in Fells Point owned by veteran bartender Doug Atwell. It was a cold, rainy night and the hot toddy I was served was exactly what I needed. Warmed me up  and the kind of bar where you immediately feel like a regular. Back to the Monaco for a good night’s sleep. The next morning we had plans for a walk, but the weather had other ideas. That did not stop the pastry tour. First stop was Cafe Dear Leon in Canton. This family-run bakery by Cheolsoo Lee, Sungae Lee, and Min Kim has a devoted following and once you see the pastry case you understand why. We ordered … a lot. One of the best ways to judge a bakery is by its ham and cheese croissant and this one absolutely delivered. But the real star was the crab dip stuffed bagel. Think soft inside, crispy outside, and filled with creamy crab dip with a little Old Bay kick. There’s a reason it’s gone viral. The bakery posts its daily bake schedule online, so if you want their black sesame cream pastry or that crab bagel, you have to check ahead. Snooze and you definitely lose. And of course I wasn’t stopping at just one bakery. Next up was Sacré Sucré in Fells Point. Founded by Manuel Sanchez and Dane Thibodeaux, this charming Parisian-style pâtisserie specializes in beautifully laminated pastries. Naturally we left with boxes to bring home. The oat scone was lovely, the lemon brioche filled with yuzu curd was bright and citrusy, and my favorite was the crookie, part croissant, part chocolate chip cookie, and exactly as good as it sounds. So if you’ve got less than twenty-four hours and need a quick escape, Baltimore has you covered. Come with me next time. I’ll show you where to go.

David and I needed a little overnight escape, so we pointed the car south and decided to explore a bit of Virginia. The plan was simple. Head to Charlottesville, make a few delicious stops along the way, and then continue on to Richmond before circling back home. In about twenty four hours we packed in a lot of eating, drinking, and wandering. Our first stop was Barboursville Vineyards. It had been a minute since my last visit and I’m happy to report the vineyard absolutely still delivers. Established in 1976 by Italy’s Zonin family, the historic estate sits near the ruins designed by Thomas Jefferson for Governor James Barbour. Italian winemaker Luca Paschina, who has led the winery since 1990, helped pioneer Vitis vinifera in the region and the wines here remain some of Virginia’s most celebrated. It was a beautiful day to sit outside overlooking the vines and work our way through a tasting. I started with the Blanc de Noir 2015, followed by the Sauvignon Blanc Reserve 2024 and the Allegrante Rosé 2024. When it came time for reds I leaned into the Barbera Reserve 2023, the Nebbiolo Reserve 2022, and of course the flagship Octagon 2021. A generous board of charcuterie and cheeses made the perfect companion to both the wines and the view. Before leaving we walked over to the Barboursville ruins, the historic Jefferson designed mansion that burned in 1884. The stone remains are preserved and you can wander around the site which feels both peaceful and fascinating. It’s one of those small Virginia moments that reminds you how much history is tucked into the landscape. From there we continued our drive to The Doyle Hotel in downtown Charlottesville. The building used to be a Cork Hotel so it maintains a bit of quirky charm, but the refreshed interiors are warm and welcoming. One of the first things that caught my eye was the large art installation in the lobby by Erin McIntosh. The quilted leaf installation titled Invasive Queer Kudzu features stitched quotes and sayings and was created as a collaborative project for Southern queers and their allies. It’s a striking piece and worth taking a moment to really look at. We dropped our bags and headed out to stretch our legs on the Charlottesville Downtown Mall, one of the longest pedestrian malls in the country. The entire stretch is lined with shops, restaurants, and music spilling out onto the street. It was a gorgeous afternoon and the whole area felt lively. The Shenandoah National Park Trust Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival was in town, so people were everywhere. Of course we popped into Twisted Branch Tea Bazaar because you know me and tea. The bohemian space has more than forty varieties of loose leaf tea and a wonderfully eclectic vibe. I ordered a Silver Peony, perfectly steeped and refreshing, before we headed back to the hotel to change for the evening. Next stop was the Speakeasy + Whiskey Bar at The Doyle, where we had heard about bartender Joel Cuellar. The space is large but still intimate and the whole concept revolves around Joel creating cocktails based on what you like. There isn’t really a menu. You simply tell him what you’re in the mood for and he goes to work. It’s the kind of place where regulars clearly come back again and again. Dinner that night was at Smyrna in Charlottesville where Chef Tarik Sengul is cooking refined Aegean and Turkish cuisine with the benefit of classical French training. On a Saturday night the room was buzzing. We started with the homemade farmer’s bread and a trio of meze that included charred eggplant, hummus, and a yogurt goat cheese dip. That charred eggplant ended up slathered all over the bread and it was exactly the start we needed. I was craving something green so the market greens salad arrived piled high with Manakintowne herbs and brightened with white anchovies in lemon vinaigrette. The Raki Balik featured thick slabs of meaty hamachi with Meyer lemon and we also shared the chicken ballotine, who doesn’t love a stuffed deboned half chicken with lemon confit?  Juicy and satisfying. Back at the hotel I did what I often do when traveling and asked for a tea kettle. After a full evening of eating there is something lovely about ending the night with a quiet cup of tea before bed. The next morning we went walking! First stop was Shenandoah Joe’s for coffee. Everyone told us it was the best coffee in Charlottesville and they may be right. Established in 1993, the small batch roaster hand roasts more than twenty five varieties of Arabica beans. I ordered a cortado which is just enough milk to soften the coffee but still let the flavor shine. Coffee in hand we joined the line at Cou Cou Rachou, the French bakery from pastry chef Rachel De Jong, formerly of The Inn at Little Washington. Waiting in line turned into a pleasant chat with locals who happily told us their favorite pastries. When we finally reached the counter we ordered the Hamembert sandwich on spelt and wheat sourdough baguette filled with ham, Camembert cheese, and grainy mustard. I added a side of cornichons for seventy five cents because why not. Into the pastry box went a savory cheese twist, a potato and cheese tart, a chocolate crinkle cookie, and a beignet filled with pastry cream that immediately delivered a sugar rush. We walked over to Dairy Market, Charlottesville’s lively food hall with local vendors, bowling at Sun Pins, and plenty of room to wander. I also found a clothing shop called Quattro Tizi where I wanted nearly everything on the racks. Given the amount of pastry I had just eaten, trying on clothes felt like a risky move, so we kept walking. Soon enough it was time to head to Richmond. We didn’t have long there but I was thrilled to meet up with one of my college roommates who lives in town. Our first stop was Sub Rosa Bakery, the beloved wood fired bakery founded by siblings Evrim and Evin Dogu. The bakery mills its own organic grains in house and focuses on naturally leavened breads and pastries made with local ingredients. What’s one more ham and cheese croissant at this point. And the Shortbread cookies dotted with pistachios were too tempting to leave behind. Our final stop was The Roosevelt, where Executive Chef Leah Branch leads the kitchen with inventive Southern cooking influenced by Appalachian traditions and African American culinary history. We grabbed seats at the bar, always one of my favorite places in any restaurant. We started with a thick slab of cornbread with whipped maple butter and followed it with the Munster en croute, a brick of Munster cheese wrapped in delicate filo dough and baked until crisp outside and melting inside. It was perfect slathered onto those fluffy biscuits. The barbecue spiced chicken wings with Alabama white sauce came out hot and crisp with juicy meat that snapped right off the bone. There were plenty of things on the menu I wanted to try, but after nearly a full day of eating we had to pace ourselves. We heard a lot about the burger with rooster sauce and bacon jam so of course we ordered it andt our bartender suggested Mike’s Yock, a ramen style bowl with noodles, pork belly, hot pickles in a  pork and chicken broth. He was right. It was fantastic. The cheese grits, made with grits from Sub Rosa across the street, were creamy and so cheesy.. For dessert we shared the Cheerwine cake, a classic yellow cake topped with frosting made from the cherry flavored North Carolina soda. So if you’re thinking about a quick Virginia road trip and have about twenty four hours, Charlottesville and Richmond can deliver a lot of delicious moments. Next time in Charlottesville I have my eye on Black Cow Chophouse, Feast, and Gearharts for chocolate. And in Richmond I’m hoping to visit Lafayette Tavern,, Slack Tide Fish Co., and Mama J’s Kitchen. Come with me next time. We’ll eat our way through it.

I’ve only been to Jamaica once before, and that was a classic resort stay in Montego Bay, so this trip marked my first time in Negril, and specifically the West End. A quick heads-up: if you arrive on a Friday, island traffic is very real. It takes time to get where you’re going, but trust me, the wait is absolutely worth it. Arrived! Night One: We stayed on the rocky cliffs at a new residential property called West Signature, located in the West End of Negril. It’s not a hotel, it is a thoughtfully designed residential community that blends island living with sweeping views of Jamaica’s coastline. Our apartment was beautifully appointed: lots of space, a fully stocked kitchen, a large king-size bed, a pull-down dining table, and the cherry on top, a gorgeous patio with water views for days. And right on the property? Syd’s on the Rocks, which quickly became our anchor. Once we arrived and unpacked (yes, I unpack everything before vacation officially begins), we headed upstairs to Syd’s on the Rocks. We were greeted by Paul with a very boozy rum punch and front-row seats to watch the sun dip below the horizon. (Swing seat for me). We snacked on cod-fritters and fried plantains, before being seated for a welcome meal crafted by Chef Kimsan Austin. As we settled in for dinner, we had the chance to spend time with Sydney Watson, the owner of Syd’s on the Rocks. Jamaican born and raised, Sydney is remarkably young and already leaving an outsized mark. She is one of the few Jamaican women to own resort-style properties on the island, and her story, rooted in vision and pride of place is as compelling as the setting she has created. Day Two:  Day two started early with a trip to Negril’s famous Seven Mile Beach. Breakfast was at Miss Lily’s at Skylark. Traditional Jamaican breakfasts for my table included a bowl of sweet porridge, dense banana bread toasted and slathered with butter and The Jamaican Special (I mean, obviously)—> steamed callaloo, sweet plantain, ackee & codfish. And I had my first-ever Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee experience. Renowned for its mild flavor profile with almost no bitterness, it’s subtly sweet with hints of chocolate. It absolutely does not disappoint. Fueled up, we ditched the coverups and spent a couple of hours soaking up the sun Negril’s famous white sand beach. Later that day, we stopped at Three Dives for a traditional Jamaican lunch of jerk chicken and goat stew. I mean that is the kind of meal that tells you exactly where you are. Not one to sit around, we then went on to Rick’s Café. It’s an iconic spot that everyone talks about. It’s a total scene, booming music, boozy cocktails, and people jumping off those very high cliffs. We watched the sunset there amid all the action. Next stop: Ivan’s for a quieter, more reserved cocktail and cliffside scene. Then it was back to Syd’s on the Rocks for another on of Chef San’s dinner that blends Puerto Rican and Jamaican flavors, and this time we leaned all the way in: Whole fried snapper, the sweet plantains and the twice-fried green plantains and the rice and peas (always). But the standout? The Puerto Rican lasagna, a braised and pulled jerk short rib layered with cheese and plantains. Save room.   Final Day: Wah! On our last day, we headed back to Miss Lily’s for more sun and those gorgeous turquoise waters. We walked along Seven Mile Beach, greeted by good music and those unmistakable Negril vibes. That night, we returned to Syd’s one last time, snacking on those addictive plantain chips with a glass of rosé while watching the sunset yet again. Dinner followed at Rockhouse Hotel, right next door to Syd’s. We simply walked over and settled into one of their cliffside coves. Dinner included Caribbean lobster and (yes) more delicious rice and peas, with the ocean crashing underneath us.   Back Home (and Dreaming of Negril) Now, back home, staring out at dreary weather, all I really want is to be looking out from West Signature, boozy rum punch in hand, watching the sun set over the cliffs at Syd’s on the Rocks.

If you want to see a city quickly—really see it—come walk and eat (and drink) with me. Nashville is one of those cities everyone thinks they know. You know: bachelorette parties on Broadway, honky-tonks blasting music from morning to night. And sure, that has its place. But Nashville is so much more now, rich with history, and increasingly exciting on the food and cocktail front. Nicknamed the “Athens of the South” (yes, that Parthenon—don’t judge my wobbly cartwheel), Nashville really does blend its deep musical roots with its famous, classic Southern hospitality. I was only in town for 48 hours, but boy did I get a taste. I landed in Nashville for a very specific reason: to see Holly Graham of World’s 50 Best Tokyo Confidential at a pop-up at Silo in the Canopy by Hilton Nashville in The Gulch (perfectly located). The lobby was transformed into a disco-ball–decked, Tokyo vibe. Award-winning bartender Holly Graham brought her Tokyo Confidential knowledge and techniques. The standout for me? A Kara-gerita—a blend of tequila, mezcal, jalapeño, shio koji, and washed in chicken fat (yes, chicken fat). Dinner that first night was at Etch Nashville with Chef Deb Paquette, a true national icon and one of the first women in Tennessee certified as an executive chef. And of course, it was my first night, you know I was going to Broadway. I am not a total snob! You have to. Everyone has their honky-tonk of choice. We went to Friends in Low Places, started upstairs in the private club, and the beat of Frankie Rae & the Canyon Band brought us down to the main floor for a night of great music.   Day 1: Put on Your Walking Shoes! 8 miles | 24,000+ steps After a fitful night of sleep (those Canopy beds are so comfortable!) out on the town we went. Breakfast was a choose-your-own-adventure situation: Five Daughters Bakery (those donuts) and a stop at the Goo Goo Shop to make my own Goo Goo Cluster. If you know, you know. We walked down to Vanderbilt University and wandered our way around the gorgeous campus. I toured the historic Hermitage Hotel, because if you’re going to understand Nashville, you need a visit to this classic. Late lunch and much-needed hydration came courtesy of SS Gai Street Thai—grilled peanuts, pounded charred eggplant, and that Southern fried chicken. Also, fresh coconut water straight from the coconut. Exactly what my body needed. Back to the hotel for a quick costume change, then we kicked off the evening with a stop at Bad Idea, and let’s be honest, starting with a Bad Idea is always a good idea. Gorgeous cocktails, smart wine list. I was thrilled to finally sit up at the bar at Peninsula. The Iberian-leaning menu is thoughtful and playful, and that Spanish tortilla? So creamy, sitting under a brûléed top. Chef Jake Howell’s James Beard award so well-deserved. Day 2: Not as Much Walking, but a Whole Lot of Eating - 20,000+ steps We woke up bright and early and walked our way over to Baby Chan for a variety of their baked goods. Obsessed with the curry egg tart with Japanese curry chili crisp and the chocolate cookie with seaweed and sesame. Knowing we had a 2 p.m. lunch, we rushed back to the Canopy for a quick wardrobe change and headed to the 12 South neighborhood. It’s one of Nashville’s most charming areas, dotted with boutiques, murals, coffee shops, and great restaurants... like... Locust by Chef Trevor Moran, where we had lunch and truly one of the best meals I had in 2025. The intimate dining room is situated around the open kitchen. It’s almost dinner (lunch) and a show as you marvel at the chef and team deftly taking care of each table with incredibly smart dishes. Bubbles (a Crémant) started our meal, followed by house-canned sardines, caviar with anchovies, and a playful beef tartare where you made your own hand roll. All dishes were precise but not precious. Dessert sealed it: it looked like a soufflé, but milk + egg + ice— the perfect finish. Later that evening, we started with a pre-dinner cocktail at Four Walls, followed by bubbles at Geist (holiday market vibes were everywhere). You can’t go to Nashville and not stop at Henrietta Red, which we did for another snack before being spoiled rotten by Chef Matt Atkinson & the team at the gorgeous The Patterson House. Before jetting out of town, we snagged a cappuccino from Frothy Monkey and made our way to the airport. Nashville isn’t one thing anymore—and that’s what makes it exciting. In 48 hours, I walked more than 44,000 steps, ate incredibly well, had a drink or two, and barely scratched the surface. If you want to see a city fast? Walk. Eat. Drink. Repeat. — With me.

Taylor Berry I had the chance to attend a special preview of La Dolce Vita, a new summer event at the Waldorf Astoria. It took place on Thursday, June 26th at the hotel’s beautiful location on Pennsylvania Avenue. From the moment I walked in, I knew it would be a night to remember. The Waldorf Astoria looked amazing. The building itself was glowing in the evening light, and inside, Peacock Alley had been turned into a stunning Mediterranean-style space. There were lemon trees, bright flowers, and a vintage white Vespa set up as a photo spot. It felt like stepping into the Amalfi Coast. The event started at 6:00 PM, and we were welcomed with summer cocktails made with house-made limoncello. I tried the Limoncello Spritz first, which was light and refreshing. Then I had the Limoncello Sour, which was smooth with just the right amount of citrus. Both drinks were delicious and perfect for a summer evening. Next came the food. We got a preview of the new La Dolce Vita Afternoon Tea menu. Some of my favorites were the Waldorf Fabergé Egg, Crispy Lemon Polenta with fig and prosciutto, and a creamy Limoncello Cheesecake. Each bite was full of flavor and beautifully made. There were also small plates of Southern Italian dishes. I really enjoyed the Fritto Gnocco, Salted Burrata, Caponata, and Italian meatballs. These dishes gave the event a cozy, home-style feel while still being elegant. The setting felt warm and inviting. Guests were smiling, taking photos, and enjoying the bites, drinks, and beautiful decor. As the evening came to a close around 7:30 PM, I took a final look around and knew I would be back. The soft lighting, fresh lemon scent, and joyful atmosphere made it an experience I will not forget. I highly recommend visiting. It is the perfect way to enjoy a taste of summer in the city.

Taylor Berry On April 3rd, I had the chance to attend the exclusive preview of Bloomroom at Hi-Lawn, located in D.C.'s Union Market District. From the moment I stepped inside, I knew this event was going to be something special. Bloomroom isn’t just a pop-up—it’s a full sensory experience that blends stunning floral visuals, creative cocktails, and delicious seasonal food into one unforgettable evening. Walking into the 50-foot Dome felt like stepping into a different world. There were flowers everywhere—some real, some projected—and the lights and colors made it feel like spring all around me.     A Local Artist’s Blooming Vision: The visual story was brought to life by Chris Pyrate, a D.C.-born artist known for his signature cherry blossoms and bold, floral style. His work was the centerpiece of the experience, and it was amazing to see it animated and projected all around the Dome. His designs were bright, energetic, and full of life—just like spring itself. As the visuals began to play across the Dome’s surface, we were taken on a journey. It started right here in Washington, D.C., with cherry blossoms in full bloom, but then we traveled far and wide. We visited flower markets around the world and places that have inspired Pyrate’s art. It felt like a beautiful global adventure, all told through color, pattern, and motion. Every corner of the Dome came alive thanks to the work of Laura Alice, an Australian digital artist who used animation and projection-mapping to make everything feel dynamic and real. It was like watching a painting come alive, with petals fluttering and flowers opening right above your head.     A Taste of Spring: The food and drinks were just as impressive as the visuals. Everything was clearly inspired by spring, with bright colors, fresh ingredients, and floral touches in every bite and sip. I had a few things off the menu, but the two standouts for me were the shrimp bites and the spiked lavender lemonade. The shrimp bites were perfectly crispy and full of flavor. They were served with a light, herb-infused sauce that added just the right touch of freshness. It was one of those dishes where you instantly want to go back for seconds. As for the drinks, the spiked lavender lemonade stole the show for me. It was the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and floral. The lavender wasn’t too overpowering—it just gave the drink a calming, aromatic note that made it feel really special. It was refreshing and fun, and honestly, I could’ve sipped on those all night. Other people around me were enjoying creative cocktails like the Cherry Blossom Float (a boozy cherry soda float) and grapefruit & sage gin and tonics, which also looked and smelled incredible. It was clear that a lot of thought had gone into matching the flavors and colors of the food and drinks with the art all around us.     Spring on Every Level: One of the things that made Bloomroom so special was how it brought spring to life in so many different ways. You could see it in the artwork, taste it in the food, and feel it in the atmosphere. Everything was tied together—from the color of the cocktails to the edible flowers on the plates to the blossoms floating across the Dome’s ceiling. Even the small plates celebrated the season. I saw dishes featuring hibiscus, rose, beets, and English peas, all prepared in ways that looked just as good as they tasted. The chefs, Nathan Beauchamp and Sam George, really leaned into the theme, and you could tell they were having fun with the menu. It was fresh, vibrant, and very spring-forward.     A Local Celebration: Another thing I loved about the event was the connection to local D.C. talent. Partnering with Chris Pyrate, a local artist with such a strong style and voice, gave the entire experience a personal and meaningful touch. His cherry blossoms are already a familiar part of the D.C. art scene, but seeing them brought to life in this immersive way added a whole new dimension to his work. I also appreciated how the event made space for both visual and culinary storytelling. There was no rush—it was a 90-minute experience that unfolded at the perfect pace, letting you enjoy each moment as it came. You could sip your cocktail, take in the visuals, try something new to eat, and simply enjoy being surrounded by beauty.     Don’t Miss Out: If you’re in the D.C. area, Bloomroom is absolutely worth a visit. The pop-up runs until May 18th, and it’s open Wednesday through Sunday. Tickets start at $35, which includes entry and a reserved dining area. Trust me, it’s a one-of-a-kind experience that combines art, food, and spring in a way that’s both exciting and relaxing. Whether you’re looking for a fun night out, a date idea, or just something a little different, Bloomroom delivers. It’s visually stunning, incredibly tasty, and deeply creative. You don’t have to be an art lover or a foodie to enjoy it—you just have to be open to a night that feels a little magical.     I’m so grateful I got to be part of Bloomroom’s preview night. It was a celebration of the season, of D.C. talent, and of the power of creativity. From the incredible floral visuals to the fresh, seasonal food and drink, everything came together in the most joyful way. Bloomroom is more than an event—it’s an escape, a celebration, and a reminder that spring is a time for color, life, and beauty in all its forms. So if you’re looking to step into something special this spring, don’t wait. Grab your tickets, bring a friend, and get ready to bloom.🌸🌸🌸

"Gratitude" doesn't even begin to cover it—I’m still buzzing from an unforgettable escape to Medellín, Colombia, where I soaked up the city’s energy while indulging in the luxury of El Cielo Hotel.  Medellín is pure magic—a city that hums with color, creativity, and that famous paisa warmth. The lively streets burst with art and music this place doesn’t just welcome you—it pulls you into its rhythm. Every morning, I woke up wrapped in luxury at El Cielo Hotel—plush beds, invigorating showers, and breathtaking city views right from my room. I kickstart the day with a brisk uphill walk to Provenza, a lush, green oasis buzzing with life. The sights, sounds, and scents make it a sensory adventure—and the perfect warm-up for the delicious escapades that awaited me. Everywhere I turned, there were irresistible bites calling my name. I couldn’t resist stopping at nearly every corner stand for those soft, chewy pandebono, warm and bursting with melty cheese. But the true culinary magic? That came courtesy of Chef Juan Manuel Barrientos and his visionary restaurants, all within steps of my stay: -A 21-course gastronomic journey at Elcielo Medellín
 -Bold, vibrant vegan creations at Kai -Soul-satisfying Italian classics at La Sere 
 -The cozy charm of his bistro right in the hotel lobby Each meal was an experience—flavors, textures, and creativity came together in unique and inspiring ways. Medellín’s lush beauty set the perfect backdrop for a journey through Colombian agriculture, coffee, and spirits. I wandered through the enormous chrysanthemum fields at Jardines de San Nicolás, taking in the vibrant blooms while learning about the country’s rich agricultural traditions. From there, it was on to Finca Félicité, where I sipped, swirled, and savored Colombia’s finest coffees—each tasting unlocking new depths of flavor. And, of course, no deep dive into Colombian culture would be complete without an Aguardiente education—a spirited adventure exploring the country’s signature liquor, complete with tastings to bring the experience full circle. Exploring the vibrant sights and tastes of Medellín was made even more special by the incredible group of people I had the pleasure of sharing it all with. From feasting our way through the city’s best bites to discovering hidden gems, it was an unforgettable adventure.  Another highlight? Every night, as I returned to my room at El Cielo, I was greeted with a sweet surprise—Colombian chocolate, waiting for me to indulge in. It was the perfect end to each day, a little taste of heaven to keep the magic of Medellín lingering long after the day had ended.

Taylor Berry I had the amazing opportunity to attend an exclusive media event celebrating the opening of The Ruxton early March. The restaurant is located in downtown Harbor East Baltimore and most definitely does not disappoint. Once guests step inside, The Ruxton instantly radiates refined elegance. Nestled in the heart of Baltimore's vibrant Harbor East neighborhood, the restaurant exuded a timeless charm that effortlessly merged with contemporary sophistication. The event passed out hors d’oeuvres, signature cocktails and included captivating entertainment at The Ruxton as we toasted to the beginning of an new, unforgettable culinary and cocktail experience. I particularly loved their fantastic seafood selection, including crab claws and flavorful shrimp. Just like the other restaurants owned by The Atlas Group, The overall vibe was one of sophistication and class. Whether savoring a sumptuous meal, enjoying a handcrafted cocktail, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, guests couldn't help but feel welcomed to a world of luxury and refinement at The Ruxton. Experience the newfound delight of The Ruxton, now welcoming the public to indulge in its offerings. Be sure to make a reservation to secure your spot!

Anna-Alexandra Rojo Wildman We had the pleasure of exploring the Monet Immersive Experience, which has taken the place of the Van Gogh experience that was in the Rhose Island Center space this past year. For fans of the Van Gogh exhibit, this Monet iteration is just as fun, if not more so.  After an introduction to Monet, his life, and the Impressionist movement, enter a reproduction of his work space in Giverny. With paintings all over the walls and charming quotes from the artist, you feel as if you've stepped into his home.  From there, you pass though a curtain to the gardens, featuring the famous Japanese Bridge spanning a charming animated pond.  Next, enter a dynamic room where you can enjoy a variety of different works projected on the walls (and floors), from his early characatures to the train station, to his paintings of Venice, and much more.  Pull up a chair, or lay back on a cushion, and take it all in (or, in our case, tour the room on the heels of a newly walking small human).  Don't miss the fun VR experience that takes you *into* Monet's paintings before you hit the crayons to create your own masterpiece at the exit of the show.  Claude Monet: The Immersive Experience: 524 Rhode Island Avenue NE; Open to and thoroughly enjoyed by all ages, but full immersion and VR is best experienced by guests older than 16 months. Tickets can be found here.