What's Happening In Washington, DC: April 13, 2015
Patios, rooftops, sidewalks, and even front stoopS are fair game when Washingtonians can't wait to dine al fresco. We know that the pounding heat of summer temps are not far off so this is the time when we frantically look for a seat at any outdoor dining venue. Luckily, there are already places throwing open their doors and readying their rooftops, and we've got some tasty options to consider this week. The DMV is gaining some creds in the cool department with a new rock n' roll venue and you can go posh and sip Champagne and oysters. Just remember to wear sun block.
Award-winning Chef Michael Schlow to Open Riggsby in Newly Renovated Carlyle Hotel
James Beard award-winning chef Michael Schlow, who also helms TICO on 14th Street, is opening his second D.C. restaurant in the newly renovated Carlyle Hotel in Dupont Circle. Cocktails and an extensive wine-by-the glass program will take center stage in the 40-seat bar and lounge while the dining room will seat 75 with a private dining space for 10 guests. The new chef, Philippe Reininger, recently executive chef at J&G Steakhouse here in D.C. and who trained under Jean-Georges Vongerichten, will offer a creative menu that includes American fare prepared with Old World influences. An open kitchen, warm-toned wood tables, leather booths, and brass finishes create an inviting and intimate ambiance that will encourage guests to savor their meal and spend time in refined yet relaxing atmosphere. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch will be served and stay tuned for more details on the menu, hours, etc.
Dig Into Acadiana's Nola-Style Crawfish Boil
In Louisiana, April is a holy time because that's when the mudbug harvest takes place in and around New Orleans and the bayous. And when the Jazz Festival arrives, it's officially party time. Last week we told you about Bayou Bakery's crawfish boil, now their good buddy, Jeff Tunks, chef at Acadiana, is hosting his own boil and bash, twice, over the next two months. Both N'awlins-style boils will be held on the patio Saturday, April 18 and Saturday, May 9 from 2 to 5 p.m. For $65 per person, you can indulge in all-you-can-eat spice-broiled crawfish, steamed Gulf shrimp, house-made andouille sausage, gumbo, corn on the cob, fruit hand pies, pralines, and more. A Zydeco band will play live jazz and Cajun music, Abita beer and house wine will keep you hydrated, and there are a few door prizes to win.
Oops, He's Done It Again: Chef Robert Wiedmaier To Open Rock n' Roll Hall Villain & Saint
Didn't we just announce a new Robert Wiedmaier resto last week? Well, he's doing it again and it's called Villain & Saint. Watch out Hamilton, Robert Wiedmaier is tapping into his bad boy love of motorcycles and rock n' roll and will be offering a range of music from heavy metal to jazz. He's joined by his new RW Restaurant Group partners and friends, chef Brian McBride, Frank Shull, and Joe Lively, who share his love of rock and live music. For opening night (Thursday, April 16, 9 p.m.), Wiedmaier has waived the cover charge and the band Lloyd Dobler Effect [LDE] will perform live with special guests Elizabeth & Katrina. The RW Group's goal is to make Villain & Saint a launch pad for aspiring artists and showcase local bands that will perform nightly at 9 p.m. and 9:30 on Saturdays. Chef Tom Meyer will serve a diverse menu that taps into vegetarian-style dishes and offers a mix of cuisines. The bar will include signature cocktails, premium bourbon and whiskey, and American craft beer.
Oysters and Bubbly Class at Black's Bar & Kitchen
Few things are as perfectly paired as mineral-driven bubbly and fresh briny oysters and on April 18 resident fishmonger, MJ Gimbar, and Black's Bar & Kitchen sommelier Alicia Chyun, are hosting a tasty pairing session that includes one dozen oysters from across the country paired with a selection of sparkling wines and Champagne. You'll learn that "what grows together, goes together." The featured wines include:
· Bailly Lappière Blanc De Blanc NV, Bourgogne, FR
· Gonet-Medeville Blanc de Noirs Premier Cru Champagne NV, FR
· Domaine Carneros by Tattinger Brut 2009, Calif.
· Rossinyol de Morages Brut Rose Cava NV, SP
The fun happens on Saturday, April 18 from noon to 1 p.m. The price per person is $45 and includes one dozen oysters, a flight of four sparkling wines, and tax and gratuity. Buy your tickets online.
Roofers Union
It's time to lighten up: your wardrobe, menus, and your attitude – take Sheryl Crow's advice, and soak up the sun." And we can't think of a better place than the fab rooftop at Roofers Union. On April 15, Roofers Union officially re-opens their roof with chef Marjorie Meek-Bradley's new spring menu along with a selection of bottomless bowls of tasty punch and $5 frozen slushie specials. You don't have to spend a dime to attend and this launch party gets going at 5 p.m.
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.