Food

The Week in Food Events: Kolaches at Union Market, Mardi Gras Celebrations

Plus Valentine's Day.

Hot dog pop-up: Chef Katy Chang introduces Haiyo Dog at the food incubator Eats Place beginning on Monday at 5. Asian hot dogs on milk bread buns come with unique toppings like ma po tofu, sushi, and kimchi ($7 to $10).  Sides ($4 to $5) range from smothered pierogies to “hasselback” potatoes. Dessert items are also available, and no reservations required.

Cider festival: The Prospect on U Street hosts a cider festival from Monday to Friday. Guests are treated to complimentary samples from different companies like Bold Rock Hard Cider, the Standard Cider Company, and Sonoma Cider. Look for tap takeovers, and a “hog wing” pairing special ($14) with three ciders offered each day.

Mardi Gras: Washington will feel a little more like New Orleans on Fat Tuesday, with a variety of Mardi Gras celebrations going down across the city. Check out our guide for where to find king cakes, block parties, hurricanes, jambalaya, and all the beads you can handle.

Happy New Year: The Chinese Lunar New Year is celebrated at restaurants around Washington this week (and at some for the whole month). See our guide to feasts at the Source, Zengo, and more.

Drinks and painting: Author and illustrator Marcella Kriebel demonstrates watercolor techniques and cooking together in a class at Union Market on Wednesday from 6:30 to 8. Buffalo & Bergen mixologist Gina Chersevani creates cocktails paired to Kriebel’s instruction. Art materials are included in the registration fee. The event ($46.64) can be reserved online and is 21+ only.

Dessert tasting menu: Trummer’s on Main in Clifton invites guests to try an all-dessert tasting menu on Wednesday and Thursday. Dishes include basil-lime consommé, hazelnut profiteroles, and roasted fruit with brown butter hazelnut cake. Small surprises accompany the courses. Tickets ($32 with optional $22 beverage pairing) are available by calling 703-266-1623.

Beer challenge: Bell’s Hopslam beer goes up against Troegs Nugget Nectar at the Black Squirrel on Friday beginning at 5 in the ultimate hops-off. Sample both beers and decide which one packs a better punch. The kitchen creates special bites like IPA-infused mac n’ cheese and a burger with a hoppy cheddar sauce. Food and drink prices vary.

Evening affair: Kick off Valentine’s weekend with a soiree at Masseria on Friday from 10:30 pm to 1 am. Guests are asked to dress for the occasion, which includes free-flowing sparkling wine from Ca’ d’Or Franciacorta. Masks, glowing candles, and a dance-friendly soundtrack all add to the festive vibe. Tickets ($75) are available online.

Kolaches are coming: Good news for anyone who’s braved the lines at Republic Kolache’s pop-ups: the pastry operation is opening a regular weekend stall at Union Market, through March or longer. The stand opens this Saturday and Sunday, 9 am to 4 pm, and will serve a mix of sweet and savory kolaches and Topo Chico, a.k.a. “the cult-favorite mineral water of Texas,” according to co-owner Chris Svetlik.

Valentine’s Day: Whether you’re a lover or a V-Day hater, Valentine’s Day goes down on Sunday. We’ve picked out the most romantic restaurants from our 100 Very Best list.