Start the night off with a drink at JoJo Restaurant and Bar, a cozy spot located in a converted row house at 1518 U Street, NW. The bar’s happy hour goes from 5 till 8 and features good deals on house wine, beer, and martinis. But the best part isn’t the drinks—it’s the live jazz by various groups that starts downstairs after 8 Wednesday through Sunday.
Take in the jazz and the intimate setting at JoJo for an hour or two; then, if you’re feeling hungry, head over to Dukem (1114-1118 U Street, NW), for some of the best Ethiopian food in the city and, often, live dancing. If you’ve never eaten Ethiopian before, don’t be concerned when the server doesn’t bring you silverware; you’re meant to eat the spicy meats and vegetables with injera, the spongy bread served with the dished. Try a bottle of the honey wine, and make sure to order the kifto, the Ethiopian beef tartare.
If you’re craving a bit of sweetness to finish off the night, head over to Tabaq (1336 U Street, NW) and up to the third floor, which has a retractable glass roof and fantastic views. Order the marble chocolate cake with vanilla sauce, and split it between the two of you. The amazingly light yet decadent cake, along with the skyline views, are a perfect finish to the night.
