STREET ART OF D.C.

Despite its reputation for being all politics and K Street lawyers, D.C. has plenty of creatives.  If you’re not into the art gallery scene and prefer something non-traditional, why not go on a walking tour of D.C. street art?  Here is a handy Google overlay you can follow around town.

Here are some of my favorites.

Solly's
Solly’s on U St.
Logan circle
Logan Circle
NoMa
NoMa
Angel wings
Embassy Row
Ledroit Park
Ledroit Park

Bloomingdale
Bloomingdale
MBT
Metropolitan Bike Trail
img_4022Blagden Alley has a bunch of murals and even a mosaic.  While you’re there, take a coffee break at La Colombe.Not pictured is the collection behind 52 O Street Studios.  I would recommend checking out the ever-changing art back there. That’s where we had some engagement photos done!

Enjoy!  Let me know if you discover a new mural or painting in your travels!

MASSERIA, D.C.

Living in Northeast D.C. can be a bit of an adventure sometimes, but we are lucky to be in an up-and-coming area.  Union Market is right down the street, along with Cotton & Reed, plus Masseria.  Did I mention Trader Joe’s is coming, too?  Now all we need is a Target and I’ll never need to leave. Masseria has become our go-to spot for special occasions.  They offer a tasting menu in the restaurant area, and have a small plates menu on the patio, which is year round with fire pits and a tent during the wintertime.  One of the servers clued us in that the patio is underused.  In fact, it was empty when we were there!  Must go back to try the small plates with wine and fire pits. The restaurant recently received a Michelin star, and that has made reservations even more difficult to get.  Luckily, the bar area is first come first serve and offers the same menu.  We most recently tested this out by arriving early.  Plenty of seats and great service at the bar.  I think this actually better than the restaurant seating, which includes a view of the kitchen.  I’d rather be oblivious to the amount of butter used! The smallest option on weekends is a 4 course meal.  You choose an appetizer, pasta, meat or fish, and dessert.  After ordering, a bread platter of sorts arrives.  The first time we went, it involved an octopus of crackers, fluffy rolls, and a tomato spread.img_2766The second time, we got this interesting mix of squid ink bread sticks, cheese filled donuts, and pickled veggies.  Definitely NOT gluten free or paleo, but one meal off from the SIBO life every once in a while is ok with me.After the bread, on to a fall salad.  It was almost too pretty to eat!Pasta, meat, and fish took the stage next and did not disappoint.Desserts here are just as good as the main courses, and come out as a work of art.img_2767 If you’re not stuffed after 4 courses, a bread plate, and a sorbet to cleanse your palate…make room for the cannoli and cake that accompany the check.  (Also, side note: apparently cannoli is plural for cannolo.  Who knew?)img_3831

A winner in my book!

Address: 1340 4th St NE, Washington, DC 20002

HoursTuesday to Thursday 5:30 – 9:30 p.m.

Friday and Saturday 5:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Closed Sunday and Monday

COTTON & REED DISTILLERY

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this is a real sign in my neighborhood..what?!

It’s Fri-yay!  Not sure which direction to take your weekend?  How about stopping in to Cotton & Reed, D.C.’s first rum distillery?

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Cotton & Reed back bar

The gentlemen behind Cotton & Reed worked as consultants for NASA with a passion for rum.  After perfecting their recipe, they opened D.C.’s first rum distillery and tasting room in the Union Market neighborhood.  They distill a dry spiced rum and a white rum.

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The Dijonata

I tried the Dijonata, a mix of coriander, mustard soda, and rum.  Savory and a touch of sweet.  The rum enhances the flavor of the other ingredients, rather than mask it.  Cheers!

 

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where the magic happens

Take a tour of the production process and see where the magic happens.  We were lucky to meet one of the founders, who was giving out samples of the rums neat.  The dry spiced rum is far less sweet than a traditional spiced rum, giving it a unique finish perfect for cocktails.

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shiny new equipment

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Head on over to one of the fastest growing parts of the city for some rum and distillation education!

 

Cotton & Reed

PHONE

(202) 544-2805

LOCATION

1330 5th Street NE
Washington, DC 20002

HOURS

Weds – Fri, 4pm to midnight

Sat & Sun, noon to midnight