Calling all cocktail fans: Dram & Grain co-founders Nicolas Lowe and Trevor Frye reunite on Monday behind the hidden bar in Jack Rose‘s basement from 7 pm to 1 am, joining forces for an evening of creative cocktails and great whiskey. Lauren Lowe joins to the team, who’ll serve classics and new drinks from the Lowe’s Denver bars, Mercantile Dining & Provision and RiNo Yacht Club. Admission is free; drinks priced individually.
Pasta special: A slow week in Washington means it’s a prime opportunity to take advantage of Osteria Morini’s Monday pasta special. Bowls of noodles, both traditional and seasonal, go for just $10. We’re fans of the classic meat ragu and truffled ricotta tortellini.
Taco happy hour: Looking for more deals after spending for the holidays? Try Smoke & Barrel’s taco happy hour on Tuesday evening. Three tacos can be stuffed with the likes of barbecue brisket or smoked tofu, and go for $5 (one side is also included). The special runs all evening long.
Home cooking: Chef Crissy Taylor hosts a hands-on cooking lesson Wednesday at 6, centered around learning restaurant-quality dishes at home. The evening includes a demonstration, free cocktails, and a small meal kit. Email usaniihouse@yahoo.com for more information or purchase tickets ($22.09) online.
New Year’s Eve, party-style: Restaurants and bars are doing it up for New Year’s Eve on Thursday with feasts and all-out bashes. Check out or roundup of the hottest events, from a family-style pork feast at Momofuku CCDC, to cocktails and snacks at Barmini, and all-you-can-eat spanish Tapas at Jaleo.
No-fuss New Year’s Eve: Not interested in a pricey prix-fixe menu? Try one of these great restaurants conducting business as usual: regular a la carte menus, many with no reservations necessary.
Jewish cooking at home: James Beard Award-winning Jewish cookbook author, Joan Nathan, hosts a cooking class on Sunday. Guests are invited into her DC home and will share a meal together in addition to learning new dishes. The day includes either lunch or dinner with wine, a recipe booklet, and all class materials. To register ($150) email olivegarcia@joannathan.com.
