• 29Nov

    Chile Chef Challenge – Report

    Earlier this month, we were happy to attend the Chile Chef Challenge at the Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington (RAMW) HQ in DC. Thank you ProChile for showing us how wonderful Chilean mussels, salmon, and beef can be! This annual event highlights how Chefs and mixologists can do incredible things with truly high-quality ingredients. I won’t say which, but we actually voted for one one of the winning dishes and one of the winning cocktails. And of course, one of the highlights of any Chilean event is the wine!Above are some images highlighting the event.

    I really enjoyed the mussel dishes, since it was excellent quality shellfish, but also because I just don’t order mussels enough in restaurants (or cook them at home). At the end of the event, one of the chefs (City Winery) asked me to help him finish off the last few plates, which I did.

    I didn’t actually try Slate’s dish, since I have an allergy to one of their ingredients.

    Event Winners:

    JUDGES FOOD CHOICE
    Executive Chef Jonathan Dearden of Radiator created a BluGlacier Aji Amarillo Spiced Salmon made with a quinoa-olive oil salad, avocado puree, and topped with pieces of salmon skin chicharron.

    JUDGES COCKTAIL CHOICE
    Mixologist Peter Grimm at Equinox created a masterpiece cocktail named Pisco Pomada, made with Waqar Pisco, ginger, turmeric, and lime.

    PEOPLES FOOD CHOICE
    Ype Von Hengst from Silver served a merqueen-spiced Range Meats Patagonian ribeye with Chilean pebre cilantro sauce, oregano and thyme seasoned roasted corn, and white beans finished with ulmo honey drizzle, pomegranate and pine nuts.

    PEOPLES COCKTAIL CHOICE
    Jo-Jo Valenzuela of The Barkeep Consulting gave guests something to truly enjoy with the Gobernador Otoño, using El Gobernador Pisco, pomegranate, Autumn-spiced citrus cordial, ginger beer, and bitters.

    -JAY

     

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  • 28Nov

    Miracle on Seventh Street Brings Holiday Cheer

    During the recent media party at Miracle on Seventh Street, casually known as the Christmas bar or the Christmas pop-up bar, everyone was in the holiday spirit. And we couldn’t help it–the fantastically-decorated bar along with delicious themed drinks would put even the Grinch in a good mood.

    There are four gorgeous rooms (all with bars, which is important, so that you can get a drink anywhere), one insanely lit-up hall, and a walk-in New Year’s Eve ball. The first bar is all Christmas, with ribbons and jingle bells and mistletoe. Behind it is a panda-themed bar. The middle bar is Hanukkah happy, with a huge menorah, sufganiyot wallpaper, and giant pandas next to “Shalom” signs. You then walk through a glowing, illuminated hall and you can either walk into the giant ball or continue into the fourth, slightly Nutcracker-themed bar. Be prepared for a lot of pandas and a lot of Christmas. Of course, everything is completely worthy of Instagram.

    Over the course of the evening, I had three drinks: Santa’s S#!T List (blended Scotch, Nutella hot chocolate, waffle marshmallow), Santa Bei Bei (Siembra Azul Blanco Tequila, lime, vanilla agave soda), and Let the Muletide Roll (Absolut ELYX, Cosmo Grenadine, ginger beer). The Nutella hot chocolate drink, served in a Santa mug, was strong and perfect for the season. You must order the Santa Bei Bei, not only for the name and presentation, but because it was delicious. Served in a panda mug, with a green and white straw stick (to imitate bamboo), it is not only totally adorable, but it was a light, balanced cocktail. The bar’s take on a Moscow mule–Let the Muletide Roll–was easy drinking and served in a huge copper Santa mug.

    The bartenders are still learning the drinks and how to handle the crowds, but don’t let that stop you from checking out Miracle on Seventh Street. This bar, and its drinks, are the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season.

    -LEM (Lia)

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  • 08Oct

    Cuba and the Chesapeake

    Thank you everyone who attended Wednesday’s DC Food Blogger Happy Hour, including the two wonderful local authors mentioned below. And, thank you to Cuba Libre for being our venue and providing wonderful food for us to sample. It was fun being the event host for this one.

    The happy hour was a book launch for two local new releases, a cookbook, The New Chesapeake Kitchen by John Shields, and a book about eating local, The Chesapeake Table by Renee Catacalos. Both authors spoke at the event. There was even a raffle which included free copies of both books, and several bottles of Dizzy Pig seasonings. Plus, we had Pacari Organic Chocolate gift bags and Dizzy Pig sample packets on hand.

    Above you can view images of the food we sampled. Personally, I was most impressed with the Cauliflower Hummus (I made everyone try it), Tropical Chips, Spinach & Manchego Bunuelos, and Albondigas (meatballs). They had various caipirinhas available as happy hour specials; I sampled the guava version.

    Somebody make sure to inform me if Cuba Libre ever puts the Blood Orange Salmon Ceviche back on the menu.

    -JAY

    Editor’s Note:

    An attendee posted these pictures from the event:

    https://www.facebook.com/d.c.foodblogger.happyhour/posts/1875772049171380

     

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  • 15Sep

    Happy 1st Birthday, Wilson Hardware!

    Last week was Wilson Hardware Kitchen & Bar’s one-year anniversary media event and it did not disappoint. As soon as I walked through the doors, I was immediately drawn towards the well-lighted high ceiling in their 7,000 square foot establishment. Media folks were guided upstairs where I got to experience just how spacious this restaurant/bar truly is. From the huge brick painted wall mural of a mysterious female bathed in a variety of flowers to live music playing from the 2nd floor, the ambiance was set perfectly for a Friday night.

    View from the 2nd floor.

    Signature drink: “Screw Him.”

    Of the various bar bites served, my personal favorites of the night were the wild mushrooms with truffle butter, and fresh mozzarella with fennel pollen and radish. But my absolute favorite item from the night was not food, but the “adult juice,” as I like to tell my nieces and nephews whenever they get curious about my alcoholic beverages. Wilson Hardware served one of their signature drinks that contains simple ingredients: vodka, lychee, hibiscus, lemon, and champagne, and yet it was absolutely amazing. It was clean, crisp, slightly sweet (and mind you- I don’t have a sweet tooth and am fairly sensitive to sweets) and bubbly. What makes this amazing drink even more amazing is its humorous name: Screw Him. I am tempted to go back this weekend just to get another taste of this refreshing drink.

    Bar bites: Mini crab cakes, quinoa salad, and wild mushrooms with truffle butter.

    Fresh mozzarella with fennel pollen and radish.

    Due to the rain, I was unable to checkout their rooftop, which I was really looking forward to. That is ok, since it gives me a reason to go back ASAP.

    Another reason to go back other than a Clarendon rooftop outing? Brunch! Wilson Hardware came out with a brand new brunch menu with — prepare yourselves — twenty-five cent mimosas (available only with bottomless brunch that is $35 per person). Mimosas for a quarter each?! Sign me up! If bottomless brunch isn’t up your alley, a la carte is available as well. All their brunch small plates sound deliciously promising but one item really caught my eye: Short Rib Hash. It is described in their menu as beef short rib, fried egg, and butternut squash potato hash, with pepper jam reduction. Short rib and fried egg?! Yes, please! They also offer traditional brunch items as well, including Chicken & Waffles, Eggs Benedict, Deviled Eggs & Biscuit, and Belgian Waffles. Check out their brunch menu for more details.

    Wilson Hardware is located at 2915 Wilson Blvd and it is not hard to miss since it is right by the intersection of Wilson Blvd and N. Garfield St. I highly recommend this spot if you want to grab some drinks with friends, do a proper sit-down dinner, listen to music, grab brunch, or all of the above!

    Cheers!

    -EHY (Elina)

     

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  • 16Aug

    Jinya Ramen Bar is now Open at Pike & Rose

     

    Jinya Ramen Bar has recently opened their third DMV location at the ever-expanding shopping center of Pike & Rose located at 910 Prose Street, North Bethesda, Maryland. Having frequented Jinya’s first location in Mosaic District (Fairfax), Virginia, I had high hopes for their soft opening at their newest spot. From taking the first few steps into the Burbank-California based ramen restaurant, it was clear this was no replica of Mosaic’s setup. It was much brighter, with far more exposed windows revealing plenty of natural sunlight, with dangling mini pendant lights twinkling from the ceiling.

    Brussels Sprouts Tempura.

    The most delectable Small Plate item of the night was hands down, the Crispy Chicken. The temperature, the batter texture, the juiciness, everything was just right. Not too salty, not too garlic’y. Just right.

    My second and third favorite Small Plate items were the Pork Gyozas (fried handmade potstickers), and the Brussels Sprouts Tempura (crispy/fried with white truffle oil). The Takoyaki (battered Octopus Balls) was my least favorite due to its creamy texture (thanks to the kewpie mayonnaise) but if creamy is your thing, you’ll probably enjoy it much more than I did.

    Pork Gyoza.

    Now, for the main attraction, the ramen. The ramen sampling feast kicked off with the Spicy Creamy Vegan Ramen. The tofu cubes had a perfect balance of creamy while holding its solidity. The thick noodles were a plus and being a huge fan of chili oil, its presence was much appreciated. To be honest, I wish I could have added in more chili oil.

    Next up, the Jinya Chicken Ramen. Now in this bowl, the noodles are thin, swimming in both chicken broth and chashu. It seemed a bit bland for my taste buds, but perhaps it is due to the fact that I typically do not choose chicken as my choice of ramen protein. Give it a shot if you prefer leaner protein in your bowl.Last but certainly not least, my personal favorite, the Jinya Tonkotsu Black. Served with thin noodles in pork broth, the contrast of the seasoned egg with its runny yolk is magical alongside the fatty pork chashu, garlic oil, green onions, kikurage, and fried onion, topped off with nori dried seaweed and garlic chips. Like I mentioned, it was my favorite but next time, I will be sure to ask for extra spicy sauce or chili oil. Yes, I like my ramen SPICY.

    The soft opening eventually wound down and came to an end with samples of green tea Mochi Ice Cream. These cold nuggets of pure joy were so heavenly and savory that I forgot to take photos because I was too busy asking for seconds (possibly thirds). The green tea Mochi was the perfect palate cleanser after indulging in all things salty, sweet, fried, and mouthwatering goodness. Jinya at Pike & Rose also offers outdoor seating for a maximum capacity of 18 guests out in the front patio, along with a communal fire pit. If you’re in the area, I highly recommend stopping by for dinner, drinks, or both! They are open Sunday – Thursday, 11AM to 10PM, and on Fridays and Saturdays, from 11AM to 11PM.

    Cheers!

    -EHY (Elina)

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  • 19Jul

    The Coolest Affair Around was DC Scoop

    DC Scoop is D.C’s very own scooper bowl! As an ice cream aficionado, I was excited to attend the event for the first time. This year, it was held on a Friday evening outside of Union Market. I was there right after it started, so around 5 p.m., and that was the time to go. Lines were minimal and there was plenty of ice cream and toppings.

    Featured vendors included Trickling Springs Creamery, Ice Cream Jubilee, and Love ‘N Faith Community Cafe, which offers a nitrogen ice cream. At Trickling Springs, I tried the chocolate-covered strawberry ice cream. I sampled the honey lavender at Ice Cream Jubilee, and the salted caramel and Love ‘N Faith. Trickling Springs was definitely my favorite. It was rich and creamy, and full of strawberry flavor. I also loved the nitrogen salted caramel, though it melted quickly. I thought the honey lavender tasted off, so was not a fan.

    The topping bar was phenomenal, and I loved the candied bacon and the strawberries. Those are always a good addition to any ice cream treat.

    The vibe was really fun at DC Scoop, and the DJ was killing it on the 1s and 2s. The best part: it was free! This is definitely an event to look out for in 2019.

    -LEM

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  • 04Jul

    Jardenea’s Summer Menu Shines in Georgetown

    Executive Chef Nelson Erazo

    We recently attended a Summer media tasting of Jardenea in the Melrose Georgetown Hotel. It was nice to return after a wonderful meal several years ago.

    While not gazpacho fans, we did enjoy the Summer Mango Gazpacho with Jumbo Lump Crab and Jalapeno Lime Creme Fraiche. Not sure we would have known it was supposed to be gazpacho, but that is fine.

    The Maine Lobster BLT Salad featured bibb lettuce, melted tomatoes (?), haricot verts (thin green beans), crisp pancetta (bacon), and avocado puree. This is a nice version of lobster salad, but it doesn’t really remind me of a BLT.  We should have asked what “melted tomatoes” are.

    They did a great job with the Cherry Wood Smoked Duck, which was served with flavorful caramelized onions and thyme pancakes. For a gluten-free diner, the pancakes were not served with this dish.

    Than Pan Seared Wild Salmon was one of our favorite dishes of the evening. It was served with coconut risotto, fresh pineapple, citrus gremolata, lemon preserve, and (very flavorful) Appalachian corn.

    The Menu for the evening.

    The Coconut Panna Cotta was served with (a delicious) papaya compote and toasted coconut. But, the Panna Cotta was not properly set, so was more like a pudding. We have no doubt that if properly set, this dessert would be delicious.

    We ordered the Stoli Doli cocktail, which features Pineapple infused Stolichnaya Vodka, Mint Simple Syrup, and Lemon Juice. This is definitely a drink we would order again.

    The restaurant is good at dealing with food allergies and alternate diets (such as gluten-free, dairy-free, or specific allergies).

    And, the service was very good. Our waiter was attentive and took great care of us. He even brought each wine bottle around for us to photograph.

    -JAY

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  • 20Jun

    The Lamb Jam Swept Through Union Market

    This event was as usual a pleasure to attend. Above are some image highlights from the recent annual Lamb Jam restaurant competition in NE DC. Click on the images twice to read the dish descriptions on the signs.

    Halfway through the event, several of the restaurants had completely run out of food, which was a bit of a disappointment; you can’t vote for dishes you were not able to try.

    The results:

    Best in Show and Best in Mediterranean: Cava
    People’s Choice: Federalist Pig
    Best in Asian: Indique
    Best in Latin: Art and Soul
    Best in Middle Eastern: BLT Steak
    -JAY
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  • 17Jun

    Cookie Decorating Brunch for Kids at Wildfire

     

    Catalina teaching the cookie decorating class, while her father assists next to her.

    We were in attendance at Wildfire‘s Memorial Day brunch where guests enjoyed a breakfast buffet, cookie decorating class and face painting. DCFüd‘s, Editor-in-Chief was the guest speaker for the event.

    Chef Oscar Huerta prepared some delicious brunch items for us including bacon, scrambled eggs, potatoes, banana bread, and French toast. Chef Huerta’s daughter, Catalina, taught cookie decorating skills to the kids at the event. And, yes, the sugar cookies themselves were tasty.

    For $20 a person, this kid’s event was a good value. Wildfire has an upcoming Kid’s Cakepop Class ($20 per child) scheduled for July 8th; a portion of the proceeds from this event will be donated to Food for Others.

    -JAY

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  • 24Dec

    Central Supports a Wonderful Children’s Charity Yet Again

    We miss you, Michel.

    Michel Richard’s Central has continued to hold a annual benefit for St. Jude Children’s Hospital, even a year and a half after his death. A few weeks ago, we were thrilled to sample Central Michel Richard‘s delicious French desserts and donate toys to St Jude. Above are some images of of the highlights from this benefit.

    Our Previous coverage of Michel and his events can be found here. You can easily see how he was a beloved fixture in the DC restaurant scene.

    Happy Holidays everyone!

    -JAY

     

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