Photo courtesy of Element Shrub’s Facebook page. Drink of the Week: Non-boozy shrub drinks
Where to Find It: Maketto, Chaia, Element Shrub, various bars
Shrubs are not new to D.C. But these savory, vinegar-based flavored syrups are gaining more steam of late. Shrubs are most often used as ingredients in cocktails. Now though, a growing number of bars and restaurants are highlighting shrubs as a standalone drink and often as nonalcoholic option. When enjoyed simply with just some soda water, shrubs become a refreshing beverage that are less sweet than typical sodas.
Over on H St., the Taiwanese Maketto (1351 H St. NE) has an entire section of its drink menu dedicated to vinegars. Choices change seasonally but have included varieties like maple, beet, celery, and others. They can be ordered as is, mixed with soda and sugar, or whipped up into a cocktail.
The new brick-and-mortar location of Chaia tacos (3207 Grace St. NW) in Georgetown offers seasonal shrub sodas as part of its vegetarian, locally-sourced menu. At $4 they’re not cheap, but they are sweet, savory, and pack a nice punch. Stop by now for a cold glass of spiced apple, sour cherry, or cranberry-orange shrub.
In addition to these non-alcoholic options, many bars incorporate shrubs into special cocktails and other drinks. Blue Duck Tavern, for example, has a section of shrub-based libations, as does Republic in Takoma Park.
If you want to take home some shrub goodness, local retailer Element Shrub sells its products to a variety of area shops. Among the creative flavors are blueberry rosemary, honeydew jalapeno, and lemon mint. Find them at spots like Glens Garden Market, Union Kitchen, and other organic markets around D.C. and Virginia.
Small Bites
Bubbly and Bublé at the Royal
Stop by The Royal (501 Florida Ave. NW) – one of DCist’s best new bars for 2015 – for a festive evening of food and libations. Expect a selection of $8 sparking cocktails as well as special $25 bottles of wine. Sip the night away with Michael Bublé’s smooth stylings on the stereo and classic Christmas movies on the projector. If that’s not enough holiday spirit, guests can also make a donation to participate in the Fernet and sparkling wine ice luge.
A Filipino Christmas celebration
Daikaya (705 6th St. NW) is continuing its monthly Saturday late-night series, and this month will feature Filipino bites with a Japanese twist, as well as some holiday-themed beverages. Stop by from midnight until last call for snacks like fried lumpia, savory macaroni salad, and shrimp tempura. There will also be a DJ, and you can make reservations through the restaurant’s website.
Beer and a Friday “Phish Phry”
Virginia’s Ocelot Brewing Company, which takes its inspiration from Phish songs, is throwing a fish fry party tonight at the Black Squirrel (2427 18th St. NW). Beers on tap will include Planets Align IPA, Plasticine Imperial Porter, and Stumbled Hoppy Red Ale. For food, there will be Southern-inspired favorites like fried catfish, oysters, shrimp, fries, and hush puppies.
D.C. Cocktail Showcase in Chevy Chase
Next Saturday, December 19, Macon Bistro and Larder (5520 Connecticut Ave, NW) will feature six cocktails made from One Eight Distilling spirits (1135 Okie St, NE). Each drink will cost $12 and be made with one of the distillery’s products, which include Ivy City Gin, District Made Vodka and Rock Creek White Whiskey. A special $40 cocktail and snack pairing seating will be held at 8:30 p.m., and reservations can be made by contacting the restaurant.
