Washington, DC Special Menu Report: Independence Day 2015, Part 2
Hot dogs, hamburgers, fried chicken, and cupcakes — what else do you need for a happy Fourth of July? We say doughnuts, steamed lobster, and boozy shaved ice would be nice.
Astro Doughnuts & Fried Chicken
Independence Day is our nation's birthday, so if carbs and sweets are your thing, Astro Doughnuts & Fried Chicken is selling their birthday cake and USA doughnuts. Try the chocolate birthday cake doughnut with vanilla glaze, buttercream, and sprinkles; or the USA,:a vanilla glazed doughnut with raspberry drizzle, blueberries, with "USA" piped in chocolate. Available only on July 4, the specialty doughnuts can be ordered in advance on Friday, July 3. Check out the new sandwich menu too — for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
EatsPlace
EatsPlace, D.C.'s favorite restaurant pop-uppery, is winning new fans for their wine, beer, and spirits tastings, and their new tasty pop-up is Kafta Burgers from chef Sima Qatanan. She is serving grilled to order burgers seasoned with spices and ingredients from the Middle East. You can order beef, chicken, or Halloumi cheese versions and then do a Drinkubator. It's shaved ice in flavors like blueberry, strawberry, Parmesan, and Blood Mary, and yes, you can add liquor and create a "lushie!"
G by Mike Isabella
In case you missed the deadline for Fourth of July picnic baskets last week, grab a gourmet basket from G by Mike Isabella. They include a choice of sandwich or salad, choice of canned or bottled drink, two sides, chips, and Nutella cookies. The price is $39 for two or $74 for four people. Place your orders online with 24 hours-notice and pick one up from July 1 to September 7.
Graffiato
Anyone ever feel like yelling, "Hey, Mickey G!" when they see Mike Isabella, or is it just us? Give him a shout at Graffiato and order their version of a lobster bake. It's available all day July 3 to July 5 and includes a pound of lobster meat with drawn butter, corn on the cob, sausage, potatoes, and cornbread for $39 bucks a head. Che bella! Just be sure to make reservations, you know this will sell out fast.
Shake Shack
Love a good dog? Or maybe you prefer a thick, creamy shake? Shake Shack is offering corn dogs and Blueberry Pie Oh My concretes beginning Thursday, July 2 and ending Sunday, July 5. The concrete is made with frozen vanilla custard blended with a slice of blueberry pie. You can find them in D.C. and Baltimore Shake Shacks, except for Nats Stadium.
Sticky Fingers Sweets & Eats
Want to indulge in sticky, sweet cupcakes for Fourth of July but also want it to be healthy? Vegan bakery Sticky Fingers Sweets & Eats has stars and sparkles cupcakes for $4 dollars each or $36 for a dozen.
Summer Whitford is the D.C. City Guide Editor at The Daily Meal and the DC Wine Examiner. You can follow her on Twitter @FoodandWineDiva.