Chef talks: Dan Barber, the chef/owner of the landmark Blue Hill at Stone Bars restaurant in New York, discusses his new book at Politics & Prose at 7 on Monday. The Third Plate: Field Notes on the Future of Food delves into ways we can revolutionize our food system through a more integrated approach. Copies of the book are available for $29.95. Check out our Q&A with the author ahead of time to learn more.
Go USA: Chances are you’ve been watching the World Cup, which kicked off last week. If you need another excuse, Team USA plays its first game on Monday. Check out the After Hours blog for a roundup of places to watch, with plenty of specials and discounts.
Vino pop-up: Spend the evening with Brookyln Oenology at Society Fair Alexandria on Monday during its “urban wine bar.” Guests at 6 and 7:30 seatings can meet the winemaker, taste, and snack on cheese and charcuterie. Reservations are $25.
Best happy hour: Washingtonian’s annual AT&T Best of Washington party is set for July 16, and we’re hosting the first of several happy hours to start the festivities. Head to STK on Tuesday from 6 to 8 for two free drinks, snacks, and the chance to buy discounted tickets to the big event. The $15 door donation benefits the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
Summery sips: Vinoteca starts its Summer of Riesling celebration on Saturday with three months of tasting flights, classes, and specials by the glass. Head in early on Tuesday for the first class from 7 to 8:30, where you’ll sample a variety of Rieslings from around the world, learn about the grape, and snack on small plates ($40 per person).
Taste talks: Those who are looking to open their own restaurant, or are interested in the industry, can head to Taste Talks on Tuesday from 6:30 to 8:30, hosted by Spoon University and General Assembly. Hear from various industry experts about opening and operating a successful business, and come hungry.
Knish love: Laura Silver, author of Knish: In Search of the Jewish Soul Food, takes the stage at Sixth & I on Wednesday at 7. Tickets ($10) are available online only. A book signing follows the talk.
Ahoy: Top Chef at Sea Celebrity Cruises sets sail on July 27 to Bermuda, but you can get a local taste on Thursday at Béarnaise, Top Chef alum Spike Mendelsohn’s restaurant. The happy hour from 4 to 7 includes food and drink specials, and the chance to win prizes such as a $250 on-board gift certificate for the cruise.
Free bubbly: Et Voila! chef/owner Claudio Pirollo turns 40 on Friday, and offers all lunch and dinner guests a gratis glass of Champagne to celebrate.
No gluten, yes wine: Wildfire hosts a gluten-free wine dinner on Friday with guest speaker Vanessa Weisbrod, editor of Delight Gluten Free Magazine. The evening begins with a reception at 6:30, followed by a three-course meal ($75 per person).
Wine festival: The Milk Lady Markets’s Mid-Summer Wine Fest goes down on Saturday from 2 to 7 at the historic B&O Station in Silver Spring. In addition to 70-plus wines you’ll find a variety of local vendors and food trucks, live music, and more. Tickets start at $31 for an unlimited tasting pass (kids can enter for $10).
Fit fest: Ladies who love to eat and exercise can head to our Fit Fest from 9 to 2 on Saturday at American University. In addition to fitness classes you’ll find healthy snacks and drinks, cooking demonstrations, and more. Tickets start at $25.
Taste of the National Harbor: The Gaylord National hosts the first Taste of the National Harbor on Saturday from 7 to 9:30. Guests can sample fare from neighboring restaurants alongside beer and wine. Tickets ($40 per person) benefit the Children’s Miracle Network.
Anna Spiegel covers the dining and drinking scene in her native DC. Prior to joining Washingtonian in 2010, she attended the French Culinary Institute and Columbia University’s MFA program in New York, and held various cooking and writing positions in NYC and in St. John, US Virgin Islands.
