News & Politics

Washingtonian Today: Big Convictions, Giant Meatballs, and Great Crabs

What everyone's talking about this morning

Photo by Evy Mages

About Washingtonian Today

Washingtonian Today is not just another political news roundup. Instead, this daily morning brief provides local context on national news, catches you up on what’s happening at Washingtonian, points you toward super duper awesome things to do around town, and lets you in on some special events going on in-house. Sign up here to receive Washingtonian Today in your inbox every morning.

It is Wednesday, my Washingtonians. While we’re all settling down from yesterday’s newspocalypse, let’s take a look at what’s going on around the District: A New York restaurant group is bringing their big meatballs to 14th street; Michael Cohen and Paul Manafort are now both convicted felons, which could mean big problems for Donald Trump; and expect some serious commuting delays, as portions of U Street will be closed due to a Ben’s Chili Bowl anniversary bash. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more updates throughout the day.

What we have cooking at Washingtonian:

•This New York Italian spot is as popular as it is well-named: Say hello to DC’s new outpost of the Meatball Shop.

•When Paul Manafort was convicted of bank and tax fraud charges, our staff photographer was there capturing the scene. Check out the journalists sprinting from the courthouse!

• The Washington Post is killing it on Twitter lately, and there’s a reason.

• BTW, summer is ending soon, so you should get yourself over to a crab shack. Here are our picks for the essential crab-nomming spots.

Today’s free fitness class, by Kim Olsen:

Getting a run in before work means you’ll be able to make it to happy hour after. Join DC Capital Striders bright and early at the Tenleytown Metro for a three- to six-mile fun run (you set the pace) led by Rachel. Let the gang know you’re coming by registering here but know that if there’s lightning or thunder, the run is canceled. 4501 Wisconsin Ave., NW. 

Our pick for things to do around the District:

Ben’s Chili Bowl is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year. On Wednesday, the restaurant is hosting a block party with performances by artists including Maysa and Rare Essence. Later that night, the Lincoln Theatre will host Ben’s Chili Bowl’s 60th Anniversary Celebration Gala. Block Party: Free, 11 AM. Gala: $60-$150, 7:30 PM.

Good reads from around town:

Many of us know the personality that is T.S. Ellis, the judge presiding over the Manafort trail. But the members of the jury have been kept somewhat a mystery. CNN helps pull back the curtain. (CNN)

As if yesterday weren’t newsy enough, feast your eyes on another Trump administration shocker: The US has reportedly teed up a handshake deal with NAFTA partner Mexico. POLITICO got some details on how Trump changed his tune. (POLITICO)

Killer E.S.P is opening a mini-version of its popular Alexandria eatery in Washington.  (WCP)

Essential long read:

There are several lessons to be learned from Omarosa’s Trump book. The New Yorker spells them out for us. (New Yorker)

Big events from Washingtonian:

Nominate your crew for Washingtonian’s Best Places to Work. I promise, everyone’s going to love you.

Get your questions in now for Ann Limpert’s chat Friday at 11.

Ticket packages for Taste of Georgetown are on sale now.

Staff Writer

Brittany Shepherd covers the societal and cultural scene in political Washington. Before joining Washingtonian as a staff writer in 2018, Brittany was a White House Correspondent for Independent Journal Review. While she has lived in DC for a number of years now, she still yearns for the fresh Long Island bagels of home. Find her on Twitter, often prattling on about Frasier.