What's Happening In Washington, DC: February 1, 2016
Although some are still digging their way out of the snow, the rest of us are raring to go and on the lookout for hearty ramen soups, fortifying wines, and cocktails that are a throwback to good old-fashioned drinks. Whatever your tastes, we are sure you will find it here in the District this week.
Vajra Wine Dinner at Fiola
On Thursday, February 4, Fiola will be hosting an Italian wine dinner featuring the wines of GD Vajra with the granddaughter of the founders on hand to talk about her family's wines. The five-course dinner prepared by chef Fabio Trabocchi includes standouts like Nantucket Bay scallops tonnato, risotto al Castelmagno with black truffle, chestnut agnolotti, and short ribs and foie gras paired with wines ranging from Langhe bianco to Barolo and Moscato. The dinner begins at 6:00 p.m. and the price per person is $225 per person, tax and gratuity included, and reservations can be made online.
Millbrandt Wine Dinner at Pinstripes
For those who know and love Washington wines, Millbrandt Vineyards is one of the best wineries for gorgeous wines that also offer value. On Friday, February 12, Pinstripes' chef Dan West will guide guests through a four-course tasting menu and discuss why each wine was paired with dishes like stuffed dates, butternut squash ravioli, and Rain Crow Ranch short ribs. The price is $5 per person and reservations can be made online.
Sapporo Ramen 101 Classes at Daikaya
After a smashing run the first go round, Daikaya in Penn Quarter is bringing back its popular class on Saturday, February 6 and February 20 from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. This demo, tasting, and interactive experience is $28 per person (tax and gratuity not included), and each 'Sapporo Ramen 101' experience introduces guests to the step-by-step process of making authentic Japanese/Sapporo ramen and includes a bit of its history. Partners Executive Chef Katsuya Fukushima and Daisuke Utagawa demo each step in the Sapporo ramen making process from creating the base for the broth, to the toppings, and even how to eat the signature noodle soup. In order to ensure a personable experience, a maximum of 10 tickets are available per class. Then at the end of class, guests will enjoy a bowl of their favorite Sapporo-style ramen along with a complimentary soft drink, and a mini goody bag filled with Japanese treats and Daikaya Ramen branded goodies. Reservations are required to attend the class and can be secured by calling (202) 589-1600.
Speakeasy at Fiola Mare
If you enjoy a bit of intrigue and subterfuge, consider attending the secret speakeasy being hosted by Fiola Mare the evening of Wednesday, February 11. Use the side door and enter Bar Piccolo to be transported back to the 1920's. Chef Brinn Sinnott has prepared some tasty small bits that pair perfectly with Prohibition Era cocktails.
Summer Whitford is the D.C. Editor and a food, drink and travel writer at The Daily Meal. In addition to lifestyle topics, Summer also writes about culture and the arts at Woman Around Town. You can follow her on Twitter @FoodandWineDiva and on Instagram at thefoodandwinediva.