What's Happening In Washington, DC: October 12, 2015
Despite our yoyo-style weather, it really is fall in D.C. and Halloween looms not far off on the horizon. To get into the mood, local restaurants, brewers, wine bars, and watering holes are hosting beer and squash parties, chocolate and wine pairings, guest chef dinners, and doggie costume contests. There are plenty of tricks and treats for everyone.
BRABO Hosts Oval Room Chef John Melfi for Guest Chef Dinner Series
Tuesday, October 13, Brabo Restaurant by Robert Wiedmaier, and chef Harper McClure, are hosting acclaimed Oval Room chef John Melfi for an exciting five-course dinner as part of the restaurant's Guest Chef Series This one-of-kind culinary collaboration is $65 per person and gives diners a chance to sample unique, inventive dishes that celebrate each chef's culinary talents. Call 703-894-3440 or email for a reservation.
Chocolate and Wine Tasting at ENO Wine Bar
On Wednesday, October 21, chocolate and wine lovers have yet another reason to visit ENO Wine Bar: a chance to sample and savor delicious handmade chocolates from Chouquette Chocolate paired with complementary wines. The event is from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. and tickets are free. Sign up by emailing or calling ENO at (202)295-2826.
Doggy Howl-o-ween Costume Contest at Jackson 20
If you love celebrating Halloween and good food and drink with good friends, especially the furry kind, then head to Hotel Monaco and Jackson 20 in Alexandria, Virginia. They're marking the end of Jackson 20's Doggy Happy Hours by having a Doggy Howl -o-ween costume contest featuring up to 50 four-legged contestants. The fashion show begins at 6:15 p.m. and each furry friend will take a turn down the "doggiewalk" to show off his or her costume and help support the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria. Tickets are free with a $10 suggested door donation and prizes for contestants include a weekend stay and dinner for two at three Kimpton Hotel Monaco hotels and their restaurants. Complimentary doggy treats and fresh water bowls will be available for the canine crowd while two-legged guests can sample snacks and drinks from Jackson 20's bar menu. For information about fees, registration, contest details, and more call (703) 842-2790.
Kabocha & Fall Beer Pairings at Zentan
Get your seasonal beer fix for Halloween at Zentan on Saturday, October 17 from to 2 to 4 p.m. This fun and informative tasting will highlight the happy flavor marriage that exists between the flavors of the kabocha (an Asian winter squash) and spicy fall beer selections. Zentan's chef Yo and lead barkeep Matt Allred will feature some of the most popular fall beers paired with recipe ideas you can take home to re-create your own Halloween-themed party. Tickets are $40 per person.
Summer Whitford is the D.C. Editor and food, drink and travel writer at The Daily Meal and the DC Wine Examiner. You can follow her on Twitter @FoodandWineDiva.