Try a new brew this weekend from the forthcoming Pulaski Beer. (Photo courtesy of Peter Tsouras)
By DCist contributor Emelyn Rude
While our Dish of the Week highlights new and interesting takes on poutine around town, this week’s calendar includes a cocktail takeover at Espita Mezcaleria and a planning notice for must-see Anthony Bourdain theater. Read on to find out other ways to eat and drink your way through the District this week.
Beer and free doughnuts (and charity).
Right Proper Brewing and Pulaski True American breweries are teaming up again to create another craft beer variety to satisfy the District’s thirst. To celebrate, Right Proper’s Shaw Brewpub and Kitchen is hosting a coming out party for their new Stay Gold lagered ESB. Stop by their location at 624 T St. NW between 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 22nd to enjoy some beers, chat with some brewmasters, and enjoy free doughnuts from the soon-to-be-opened D.C. location of Sugar Shack Doughnuts. All proceeds from the event (pints of Stay Gold ESB will be $5) will support the Homeless Children’s Playtime Project.
Anthony Bourdain is still hungry and wants to tell you about it
Chef, author, and televised vagabond Anthony Bourdain will be coming to D.A.R. Constitution Hall next Thursday, Oct. 27 as part of his 2016 “The Hunger Tour.” The live show is billed as something between a travelogue, a serious food talk, and a Q&A with the famous host. Those who buy VIP tickets will reportedly get better seats and a chance to meet Bourdain after the show.
The Day of the Dead lasts all week at Oyamel
Jose Andres’ Mexican standout Oyamel is the place to refuel with tequila and tacos next week. From October 24th until November 2nd, the restaurant is celebrating its annual Day of the Dead Festival and will be hosting a series of tequila and mezcal experience dinners, one of which is with the previously mentioned Anthony Bourdain. The regular menu receives some spookily delicious upgrade as well, with dinner specials like carne apache (venison heart tartare) and Tamal de Acelgas (shredded rabbit tamales).
Howard homecoming means boozy brunches and day parties
Howard University’s homecoming is this weekend, which means three days of great performances and even better parties. For those still looking for a place both eat and celebrate, Bonfire (1132 19th Street) is offering a $35 prix fixe menu, complete with champagne and entertainment, this Saturday from 12 to 5 p.m. Henny & Waffles is laying out an all-you-can-eat buffet between 12 and 4 p.m. at Asia DC (1720 I St NW). Come for the Maryland crab legs and stay for the bottle specials.
Earth, Wind, and Fire (and Water) make an Appearance
As the beverage team of Espita Mezcaleria (1250 9th St. NW) heads out on a research trip, they are leaving their bar in the good hands of the drink masters of Shaw’s Columbia Room. From Sunday, Oct. 23 until Tuesday Oct. 25th, these guest mixologists will be creating cocktail specials such as the Trouble Bath (sotol, fino sherry, lavender, bitter orange, and bubbles) and earth, wind, fire, and water-themed drinks. Specials change daily so be sure to ask about the menu before you go.
Openings:
Fast Casual favorite &Pizza’s 10th D.C. location has just opened on Barracks Row (405 8th St SE). You can stop by all weekend to participate in the chains’ “Buy One, Give One Campaign”. For every pizza they sell at the location this weekend, another will be donated to either Ready, Willing & Working or the Capitol Hill Arts Workshop.
Those who crave Belgian-Style fries above all others will be overjoyed at the Fry Brother’s new “permanent pop-up” every Friday and Saturday from 7 p.m. to 3 a.m.at the Star and Shamrock Tavern & Deli (1341 H St NE). Stop by and try a “Belgian Combo,” featuring a cone of fries, dipping sauce, and a beer.
Proper 21, a new high-end sports bar, is opening tonight at 1319 F St NW. This is the first outpost of the New York-based Nieuw Group and will be serving “All-American classics with a gourmet twist” prepared by Chef Edward Janda. The bar opens.
Plan Ahead:
It’s time to bring out your inner food wonk. The Smithsonian’s American History Museum is hosting its second food history weekend from October 28-29th. This year’s theme is “Politics on Your Plate.” With talks by noted food authors, hands on food demonstrations, and meet and greets with top food writers and culinary experts, this is a once a year opportunity to feed your mind and also your body with all kinds of new information about the exploding American food scene. See the full program online. Highlights include a beer tasting event Saturday evening, a $500 gala dcharity inner on October 27th honoring Chicago Chef Rick Bayless, and optional dining out events. The other events are free of charge. — Johanna Mendelson Forman
For those thirsty souls in the District, the next few weeks will be great for you. October 29th is the Rock the Core Cider Festival, a celebration of all things fermented and fruity, while the DC Beer Festival returns to National Park on November 5th and brings with it not only a ton of beer purveyors, but also food trucks, lawn games, and DJs.
