Jordan Wright
December 21, 2017
Photo credit Jordan Wright
Dining at the Hay-Adams for a Christmas Steeped in Luxury and Tradition ~ Mike Isabella Opens His Biggest Project Yet ~ Crimson DC Whiskey Bar, Diner and Holiday Pop-Up ~ The Maple Guild’s Maple Pecan Sandies
The Hay-Adams Proves Irresistible
Though I think and write about restaurants all the time, my mind can sometimes go completely blank when asked, “Where should we eat?” My response goes something like this, “Ethnic, inexpensive, romantic, large group, trendiest restaurant, intimate, posh, close by, Metro accessible, craft cocktails, pre-theatre dinner specials?” That usually ends the conversation with a thud. People want one answer. But with so many distinctly diverse options for cuisine and atmosphere, that’s the only way to narrow it down.
A few weeks ago, a friend asked where he and his wife should take their distinguished guests for Sunday brunch. The globetrotting trio were flying in from London and he wanted to impress in an elegant spot where they could relax and enjoy easy conversation. Brunch in the DC Metro area often means unlimited bloody marys or mimosas at a fixed price in a noisy, packed restaurant more suitable for large groups of friends or family. And that’s fine if that’s your jam. But for this group of sophisticated diners, that would most emphatically not do.
 Holiday decor in the lobby ~ Tiny creatures adorn the decorations – all created by the hotel staff Given my friend’s specific parameters, I told him to book his party at The Lafayette at the Hay-Adams. Recently chosen by Conde Nast Traveler for a 2018 “Gold List” Award, it checked all his boxes and more. I knew the food and service to be superb and the hotel was gorgeously decorated for the holidays.
Verdict: They loved it!
Here are a few photos I took from the current holiday dinner menu.
 Pan seared halibut filet with maitake mushrooms and wild rice pilaf ~ Octopus Za’atar with favs beans, merguez sausage, black garlic tahini and basil pistou
 Seared diver scallops with celery root purée, Brussels sprouts and saffron cream ~ Spiced Pear Strudel by Hay-Adams Pastry Chef Josh Short For those who have never enjoyed the charms of The Lafayette, nor the ultimate insiders’ bar below stairs at Off the Record, I highly recommend you go. But don’t let it get around. It’s our little secret.
Isabella Eatery Opens in Tysons Galleria
 Malachite green doors beckon diners to relax beside a fireplace at Isabella Eatery Former Top Chef Mike Isabella has come a long way from his early days at Zaytinya. His explosive empire just got even bigger with the opening of his 41,000-square foot emporium, eponymously named Isabella Eatery. Graffiato, Arroz, Retro Creamery, Non-Fiction Coffee, Octagon Bar, Pepita, Kapnos Marketa, Requin and Yona all take their places on either side of a catwalk the second level of this exclusive shopping mall.
 The bar at Pepita at Isabella Eatery ~ The chandelier and portrait gallery dining space Sit at one of the counters or pull up a seat up to a long wooden table, there are plenty of spaces for a crowd to chow down on any one of dozens of offerings from these varied cuisines.
 View of Graffiato and Retro Creamery ~ The central lounge Designed by Jason Maringola of the DC design firm Streetsense, it is a massive project. One of the multiple dining spaces is shaped like a rotunda and features wood floors and walls. Outfitted with a custom designed 25-foot wide $250,000 LED chandelier, it has gallery style art hung clear up to the rafters. Each dining space is stylishly reflective of the type of food and drink served – tacos and margaritas at Pepita; pizza at Graffiato; sangrias, pintxos and tapas at the soon-to-open Arroz; oysters, lobster rolls, crab cakes and champagne at Requin; poke bowls, sushi and sake at Yona; tzatziki, hummus, spit-roasted meats and beers from DC’s 3 Stars Brewing Company at Kapnos Marketa. And much, much more, including a small bakery at Non-Fiction Coffee. Lastly, the Retro Creamery, which is done up in the style of a 1950’s ice cream parlor with banana splits, gelati, sundaes, shakes and floats.
 Oysters, lobster rolls and Veuve Clicquot champagne at Requin ~ A group of friends enjoys the opening night at Isabella Eatery There’s something for every taste. An oyster and champagne bar caters to the luxe crowd, while takeout sandwiches and coffee drinks are for those on the go. A spacious modernistic lounge with crackling fireplace becomes the perfect setting to gather over craft cocktails, caviar and steaks from the deluxe Octagon Bar.
Enter through the mall or up a separate escalator accessible from the parking lot on International Drive.
Crimson DC Whiskey Bar Opens in the New Pod Hotel
 Preparing specialty cocktails at Crimson DC ~ A perfect Manhattan at Crimson DC’s Whiskey Bar
 The hunting lodge lounge Okay, it’s officially a trend – speakeasies, Prohibition-era cocktails, whiskey, bourbon and house made moonshine. But what if I told you can find all this in one spot. In Chinatown. With a view of the city. It’s Ian and Eric Hilton’s a three-in-one destination. The whiskey bar is a vast room broken up into smaller areas for lounging or gathering at the U-shaped bar. I’m not sure how many it seats at the bar. Best guess more than 50. Located below stairs in the stylish new Pod Hotel this spot has a Southern style party-all-night atmosphere. Retro wood booths on one side and sofas and a hunting lodge-themed lounge on another.
 The check in desk at The Pod Hotel The menu trends towards casual bar food – chicken liver parfait, Brunswick stew, a ham board with Virginia’s Olli Salumeria prosciutto, hushpuppies and Chesapeake oysters – fried and served in a po’ boy – or raw.
 Nighttime view of the Chinatown Arch from the rooftop bar at Crimson DC Take the elevator to the rooftop, where a cozy holiday pop-up bar is the perfect spot away from the madding crowd. Overlooking the Chinatown Arch with a 360-degree view of the city, it has both indoor and outdoor seating. Pop in for spiced lattes and gingerbread cookies.
 The rooftop holiday pop-up bar at Crimson DC A brightly lit, mid-century modern diner, bar and coffee bar is on the street level and open from 7am till midnight most days. Top picks: gumbo, biscuits, shrimp and grits, and caramel cake a la mode. And if you’ve never had it before, try the corn pone!
The Maple Guild Beats Out the Competition
What’s going on top of your Christmas morning breakfast stack – the perfect pancake topper from Vermont, naturally. This Vermont-based maple syrup company is the best there is. How do I know? Because The Maple Guild’s Original Grade A Maple Syrup has won the coveted “Best of East” Award at the Natural Products Association’s Expo East, beating out 1500+ other exhibitors for the prize. Yes! 1500 other products of all kinds to win the top prize.
 The Maple Guild Selection This prestigious award, chosen by all press and influencers at the Expo, is the top honor bestowed upon exhibitors at the trade show. The Best of East is the third award The Maple Guild has won at Expos East and West in the past calendar year.
But it’s not just their syrups – Salted Caramel, Bourbon Barrel, Cinnamon and Vanilla Bean (Salted Caramel is off the chain!) – you’ll want to try their maple syrup-sweetened fruity teas and maple cream – that luscious spread that you schmear onto your morning toast. Another product is tapt., a fruit-infused tree water with vitamins, minerals and electrolytes that was the winner of the “Hydration Award” by Runner’s World. Plus, they make a fruit-infused green or black tea sweetened with their maple syrup. And DC distillery Jos. A. Magnus & Co. is using some of the different flavored syrups in their Cocktail of the Month.
The Maple Guild is essentially the Willy Wonka of the maple syrup industry, dreaming up creative and innovative ways to consume maple. The heart and soul of the company’s products shows through in their organic steam-crafted syrups tapped from their 25,000-acre farm in Island Pond, Vermont. Metro DC area residents can find The Maple Guild’s products on OnLine and in-stores at Wegmans, ROOTS Market, GLUT, and MOMs Market.
Maple Pecan Sandies (recipe by Captain Cookie)
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup The Maple Guild original maple syrup
- 1 cup oil (corn, canola, or vegetable oil all work fine)
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 4 cup flour
- 1.5 tsp salt
- 1.5 tsp cream of tartar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2 cups chopped pecans
Recipe
- Preheat oven to 375*
- In a bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Stir in the powdered sugar, maple syrup, oil, and vanilla until well mixed.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, salt, and cream of tartar. Add to the butter mixture and mix on low, scraping the sides of the bowl until everything is uniformly mixed in (don’t over-mix)! Stir in the two cups of chopped pecans.
- Optional: Cover dough and chill for one hour before baking – this will make the sticky dough easier to handle.
- Scoop by tablespoons and bake at 375* for 10-12 minutes or until cookies are puffed with golden edges.
Finishing Touches
- Place one scoop of Salted Caramel Ice Cream between each cookie.
- For the true maple lovers, drizzle maple syrup on top of the ice cream before placing second cookie on top.
- Dig in!
Jordan Wright
November 2017
Photos by Jordan Wright
Wines of Lugana ~ Fiola Mare on Georgetown Waterfront ~ Sunday in Saigon – Upscale Vietnamese in Alexandria ~ Honeygrow Provides Healthy Choices in Pentagon City ~ Pokéworks at The Block in Annandale ~ Duck Donuts Comes to Northern Virginia ~ Red’s Table Wine Spanish Wine Dinner and Upcoming Whiskey Dinner
Wines of Lugana, Italy
 Six of the Lugana wines that range from soft and fruity to lemony and herbaceous A luncheon and wine primer hosted by the Consorzio Tutela at Café Milano proved to be the perfect setting for learning about the wines of Lugana DOC. This wine-growing designation in the province of Brescia, is situated in the southern part of the beautiful Lake Garda in Northern Italy, 150 miles east of Venice and 150 miles west of Milan, and southwest of the Dolomite Mountains. The volcanic soil of clay and sand is rich in mineral salts, and the lake, which was formed from a volcanic eruption 10,000 years ago, supplies 30% of its fresh water to all of Italy. This area also has the advantage of being warm enough to have olive trees with a Mediterranean climate. Perfect for the grapes too.
 A map of the region As a travel destination, the Lake Garda region is hugely popular with tourists and many of the wineries have their own restaurants, bars and lodging. Cyclists can ride around the circumference of this picturesque lake taking in water views and visiting wineries along the way.
 The Lugana wines pairing menu at Café Milano Currently the largest market for this thick-skinned grape is surprisingly Monaco. Following that their largest audience of consumers is Germany. And though the winemakers have seen a ten percent increase in production per year for the past ten years, there were only 15,120,133 bottles of these extraordinarily expressive produced in 2016.
Due to the fact that there are only 4,628 acres in vine, it is the most expensive white wine in Italy. Genetically the Turbiana grape is distantly related to Trebbiano di Soave and is a distant cousin to Verdicchio, but don’t let that distinction define its profile. After tasting a dozen wines from the region, made exclusively with this single grape, I can say that it has stunning versatility, as well as affordability.
 Arugula salad starts the pairings There are a number of expressions of this grape and they are all very individual. They range from soft and floral, fruity to crisp, lemony and herbaceous and even sweet as in the late harvest wines. And most of the wine is made un-oaked.
 Ca Maiol from Lugana – a delicious sparkler The basic Lugana is fruity and dry and is rarely exported; ‘Superiore’ requires one year of aging to mature; Reserva is aged for 24 months – six months in bottle; the late harvest Vendemmia Tardiva is only made by three wineries; and the very lovely Spumante is in limited production. That said, it is finding its way into some of the finer restaurants in our area.
Fiola Mare at Georgetown Harbor
One of the most recommended restaurants in Metro DC is Fabio Trabocchi’s Fiola Mare. Along with his wife, Maria the dynamic duo has launched five of the most successful concept restaurants in town. Here the thrust is seafood – freshly caught, sustainably raised and served with an elegant Italian flourish. It is everything you’d dream of in a posh seafood restaurant in coastal Italy.
 An assortment of crudi and prosecco cocktails at Fiola Mare overlooking the waterfront in Georgetown Situated alongside the Potomac River on the Georgetown Waterfront boardwalk, its sea blue awnings beckon diners to this nautical themed restaurant. Inside bistro chairs are fitted out with white piped, navy blue cushions, just what you’d expect to see on a luxury private yacht. Windows open out to take in the view of Kennedy Center, and a nearby park is the perfect spot for an after-dinner stroll.
 The sleek bar It’s a lively place, not conducive to easy table talk, but the large, narrow dining room sporting cream colored banquettes is arranged to see and be seen. Even the bar, stocked to the ceiling with aperitivos like Cynar and Campari, has a clear view to the main dining room. A smaller room with coffered ceiling, paintings of sailboats, and a marble-topped bar looks to be perfect for private parties.
 Seafood Ancona Dinner began with a pair of ‘Bellagio’ cocktails and a quartet of raw tuna, caviar, sea urchin and foie gras mousse. It merely whet our appetite for more. Our server suggested we order the ‘Ancona’ – – Madagascar shrimp, clams, oysters, scallops, mussels, bay scallops, king crab, langoustines and more tuna tartare. Who could say no?
 Fabio Trabocchi’s famous lobster ravioli One of Trabochi’s best known dishes, is his Lobster Ravioli. There is a reason for this. The pasta, nestled in a delicate sauce, is as sheer as a silk stocking and what lobster the ravioli doesn’t accommodate within, is added to the final dish. It is deluxe…and it is legendary. We followed that with pan-seared fish, whose heritage I cannot now recall, but it was served on soft polenta with baby zucchini. I’m fairly certain that was the only vegetable I made contact with all night.
 The ‘Marchesi’ chocolate and pistachio dessert Allowing for a dessert to share, Pastry Chef Christian Capo created an exquisite terrine of dark chocolate with pistachio gelee and pistachio mousse that I am still dreaming of.
Fiola Mare – 3050 K Street, NW, Washington, DC 20007. For reservations call 202.628.0065 or visit www.FiolaMareDC.com
Sunday in Saigon
The name alone is enticing, conjuring up exotic images of the day of the week best known for relaxing. But it’s not just the name that lures me to the regional Vietnamese dishes in this hip, welcoming atmosphere. It’s as much that as the owner’s attention to detail.
 Chrysanthemum tea at Sunday in Saigon French rattan bistro chairs and wide umbrellas welcome outdoor diners while a cozy, carpeted nook for hanging out in wing-backed chairs offers a plush respite while waiting for your table. There’s even a tech-savvy card-operated wine automat for sampling a rotating selection of wines in ounce increments. Help yourself. Even the décor shows a personal touch with Asian antiques, moth orchids and a feature wall of brightly colored sheet music and album covers from the 1960’s through the 70’s. These almost Pop Art covers from the owner’s private collection derive from controversial love songs that came out during the Vietnam war and were outlawed by the Communists until 1975.
Owner, My Kieu Huyhn, of Café Banh Mi, a tiny spot on Cameron Street in Old Town, opened this more elegant, spacious spot in June in the former Teaism beside the Old Town Trader Joe’s. “Mimi”, as she’s called, aims to showcase a modern Vietnamese aesthetic using higher end ingredients in traditional dishes.
 The cozy lounge Here you’ll find unusual offerings like Pho Bo Wagyu – Wagyu Beef Pho in Oxtail Broth; Com Tay Cam Chay – incorporating seitan, lotus seed pumpkin and rice prepared in a traditional clay pot; Canh Chua – a Viet bouillabaisse with prawns, salmon, pineapple and tamarind. For a refreshing and filling salad try the Tom Hum Xa Lach – lobster salad with avocado, mango, and hearts of palm with a delicate passion fruit vinaigrette, or go with a version of the Saigon seafood pancake, here called a ‘Vietnamese crepe’, that’s loaded with shrimp and veggies. Options for sides include coconut rice, brown rice or black rice.
Exceptional service.
682 North St. Asaph St., Alexandria, VA 22314. For more information visit www.SundayinSaigon.com or call 703 549-7777.
Honeygrow
 honeygrow’s monthly list of local farms where ingredients are sourced. Hmmm, I thought. Honeygrow is an odd name for a restaurant. Then I learned it’s a contraction of ‘Honestly Grown’. And that defines the concept to a tee. It checks all the boxes for eco-friendly – like sustainably grown ingredients (many organic), recyclable flatware and bowls, and locally sourced ingredients. That’s all well and good, you say, but how does it taste? Well, here you’re the chef, customizing your order from a dizzying assortment of ingredients to create a bowl of healthy deliciousness. Just the way you like it. A wall-mounted chalkboard lists local farms cueing the diner to their place of origin.
At the Pentagon City location (another outpost is in DC’s Chinatown), a few feet away from the Crystal City Ritz Carleton, it’s past lunch hour and a line has already formed for takeout orders. Though there is a section for dining-in, it appears most of the patrons have walked over from nearby offices to pick up their pre-orders. Security badges are ubiquitous in this area, and it’s fairly easy to discern government employees from mall shoppers – office dress and military uniforms vs. comfy casual.
 honeygrow in Pentagon City Initially, it’s a bit daunting with many options to choose from, but the menu guides the diner with a few basic ‘bowls’ featuring both cooked and raw options. From there you’ll tailor the finished bowl choosing from a raft of different dressings and toppings. Dishes are primarily designed around Asian and Mediterranean themes with a guide to gluten-free, vegetarian and/or calorie count – if you’re watching your waistline. Proteins range from poached chicken and hard cooked eggs to bacon, turkey, spiced tofu or beef, nuts (walnuts or cashews), cheeses and legumes. There’s even a regional stir-fry or a create-your-own option. And all meats are all natural, antibiotic and hormone-free. High five, up top!
Culinary director, Chef David Katz, previously of Philadelphia’s award-winning Mémé and Creekstone Farms, carefully considers each ingredient offered, from sustainably raised meats to sauces and dressings prepared from scratch daily. Produce is always fresh (honeygrow eschews freezers).
 Freshly bottled juices and salad your way As for drinks the best choice is to go with the cold-pressed, sugar-free juices in to-go bottles. “Better Off Red” is beet-based with watermelon and raspberry; “Green Is Good” features apple, spinach and cucumber; and “Orange You Thirsty” blends oranges, carrots, ginger and lemon. They are all delicious and, of course super-healthful. We tried all three and each was refreshing with well-balanced flavors.
 A stir fry bowl Expect the same health-conscious dessert approach from this Philadelphia-based export. Opt for a base of fresh fruits topped with local honey – wildflower, buckwheat or clover – and top it with fresh cinnamon whipped cream or local yogurt, coconut, granola, ginger snaps or dark chocolate chips and you’re good to go.
Clearly, a popular neighborhood spot, especially for those who embrace a vegetarian and vegan lifestyle.
Opening its newest location in Rockville on December 8th at the Montrose Shopping Center, honeygrow will offer its first 100 guests complimentary meals (choice of one stir-fry or salad, as well as a fountain drink,) on opening day. Additionally, the Rockville Pike location will feature artwork by local photographer Ian Jared Bell. 1100 South Hayes St., Arlington, VA 22202. To check out other locations visit www.honeygrow.com
Pokéworks at The Block
I’ve been to The Block six times. But I always go to Pokéworks. I’ve even got my little buy-twelve-get-one-free card to prove it. I haven’t written about them before because I wanted to keep it secret, but it’s too late for that. This spot is jumping day or night. Located in Annandale in a forgettable strip shopping center that features a K-Mart, a Korean bakery and a nail salon, it was a former Wendy’s, or so I’ve heard. You’d never know it. It’s since been redesigned into a stylishly industrial-hip open floor plan resembling a mini-food hall. You’ll find three other counters – Balo Kitchen – Asian comfort food, Roots – Thai street food, and SnoCream, a Taiwanese shaved-ice shop with uniquely flavored ice creams.
 The Block in Annandale A bar with TV screens runs the length of the space, but at lunch time no one sits there. Communal tables allow for easy conversation amongst strangers and I’ve chatted up a table of middle-aged Chinese-American ladies, a Vietnamese-American gaggle of girls and a mother with teenage daughter who was off to LA for an acting gig who showed me photos of one of The Block’s nighttime themed parties and her sparkly, pink unicorn costume.
 Poké bowl at Pokéworks From humble roots as a popular DC food truck, Pokéworks offers bowl or seaweed wrapped burrito options. First choose from a base of kale noodles, brown rice or sushi rice, then select from two or three proteins (price increases only a dollar) – raw ahi tuna, raw salmon, raw albacore tuna, cooked shrimp, raw scallops, organic tofu or cooked chicken.
 Different choices of protein and toppings Mix-ins are too numerous to mention here, but I am regularly drawn to edamame and diced mango. Eight different dressings are offered, but I like the ponzu or umami shoyu. Then toppings are applied. Avocado and wasabi tobiko are a bit extra, but the other eight are standard options. Lastly ‘Your Crunch’ is applied. Choose from roasted macadamia nuts, garlic crisps, lotus chips, shredded nori and more. As many as you like. Enjoy. Just keep this cool spot on the down low.
Be sure to check out their new monthly night market starting this Saturday and Sunday November 24th and 25th from noon till 10pm. www.dmvnightmarket.com
The Block 4221 John Marr Drive, Annandale, VA 22003
Duck Donuts Arrives in Alexandria, VA
 Teens await opening of Duck Donuts Russ DiGilio, founder and owner of Duck Donuts has rapidly expanded his Outer Banks shop into a franchise operation. Now with 12 locations in Virginia and Maryland, this unique donut concept allows guests to choose their own donut, base, icing and toppings – all made to order and served hot on the spot. Coatings go outside the norm with flavors like maple, peanut butter, strawberry, blueberry and lemon to underscore toppings – sprinkles, coconut, bacon and Oreo. Drizzles include hot fudge, blackberry, raspberry and salted caramel.
 An assortment of Duck Donuts served hot! Excited teens from a nearby school peered through the windows, but were a day early for the grand opening. Nonetheless, six-franchisee owner Alvin Barnuevo graciously brought out a tray of donuts to the students. Kudos, Alvin. You just made a whole new crop of friends. Duck Donuts 3610 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22302. For other locations or to place orders in advance, visit www.DuckDonuts.com/locations
Red’s Table Pairs Spanish Cuisine with Wines
 Spanish wines at Red’s Table dinner event Red’s Table’s executive chef is nothing if not versatile. Definitely worth the drive out to Reston for a guided wine pairing dinner served outdoors on their spacious deck overlooking Lake Thoreau.
 Confit of rabbit, romesco sauce and white beans The six-course dinner, complemented an ambitious dinner by Executive Chef Kevin Ettenson. Because it was such an extensive showing of wine pairings I am listing them so that you can recognize some of your favorites – Cava Brut, Bodegas Murviedro Corolilla, Valencia, NV, Hondarribi Zuri, Bodegas K5, Pilota, D.O. Getariako Txakolina, Basque, 2016, Albarino, Adega dos Eidos, Eidos De Padrinan, Rias Baixas, 2016, Garnacha Blend, Casa Gran del Siurana, GR-174, DOC, Priorat, 2014, and Tempranillo, Dominio Basconcillos, Vigna Magna Seis Meses, Estate, Ribera del Duero, 2015.
 Hangar steak with salt bath roasted potatoes and roasted piquillo peppers These sumptuous wines were served with jamon Iberico y membrillo crostini; tomate tartare; gambas al ajillo; conejo con Romesco; lomo de buey con patatas y piquillos; and a dessert of petits fours. Tell me you can find a better deal for $85.00 per person.
 Roasted tomato confit with shallot aioli To catch one of these special pairing dinners, make a reservation now for the upcoming Whiskey Dinner on Saturday, December 9th. For $85.00pp the evening’s offerings will feature both domestic and imported whiskeys over a four-course dinner. Five whiskeys from the U.S. and Scotland will be served to include – Bulleit Rye Whiskey, Bulleit Bourbon 10 Year, Ardbeg Corryvreckan, Oban, Glenmorangie Nectar D’or, and Glenmorangie Signet. Here’s the plan.
Welcome Cocktail
Smokey Pete featuring Bulleit Rye Whiskey
paired with
Fried Chicken Biscuit with house pickles
First Course
Bulleit Bourbon 10 Year – Fig Smash
paired with
Bourbon French Toast with house smoked hickory syrup
Second Course
Ardbeg Corryvreckan, shaken with orange & chamomile syrup
paired with
Seared Scallops with orange crème fraîche, crispy capers
Third Course
Oban with large sugar cube soaked in bitters
paired with
Roasted Pheasant with wild mushroom ragu and black mission fig marmalade
Fourth Course
Glenmorangie Nectar D’or, chilled and poured over a grilled pear slice
paired with
Lemon-Infused Almond Cake with honeycomb candy, dates, and lightened lemon curd
Optional Fifth Course
(for an additional $25.00)
Glenmorangie Signet, served neat
paired with
Dark Chocolate Ganache with toasted cinnamon rolled in crushed espresso beans
Red’s Table is at 11150 South Lakes Drive, Reston, Virginia 20191. For reservations call 571.375.7755 or visit redstableva.com.
Jordan Wright
August 8, 2017
Photo credit: J. Wright
Sofitel Launches Summer Menu – Baba Bar: A Sexy Speakeasy Sans Password – Japanese Embassy Hosts Travel Writers – Peter Chang Opens Rockville Outpost – Silver Debuts Summer Menu – Hank’s Oyster Bar Proves Great Pairing for Nederburg Wines
Let’s Play the French Way at Sofitel
 The lobby at the Sofitel One of the most enjoyable ways to while away the hours is at the Sofitel Hotel DC where luxury is part of the brand. Whether on the patio (large fans provide a breeze), in the intimate, modern-chic iCi Urban Bistro with its wraparound street-facing windows, or in the plush, loungy Le Bar, the hotel is a calming retreat, and a mere stone’s throw from the ongoing chaos of the White House.
 (l-r) Salmon tartare with pickled Amish vegetables ~ Grilled octopus Executive Chef Gyo Santa for prepares everything with great care and delicacy using the freshest ingredients with a perfectionist’s eye to alluring presentation. Santa’s Asian-influenced spin on modern French cuisine is unlike anything being prepared in the city. And we love it!
 (l-r) Classic Bouillabaisse avec rouille ~ Classic Bouillabaisse avec rouille This summer he imagines the dreamy lavender fields of Provence and the fruits de mer of the Côte D’Azur to conjure up flavors to pair exquisitely with rosés from Aix-en-Provence. A bouillabaisse with rouille, a whole grilled branzino a la Provencal with sauce vierge or roasted moulard duck breast with sliced Brussels sprout, rainbow carrots and poached pear in a sweet wine glaze – each dish could sing “Le Marseillaise”!
 Rosé is perfect with the summer menu Summer-inspired cocktails are decidedly South of France – “Tango St. Tropez”, “Cannes Cachet” and “Carte Blanche”. Of particular note is the luscious sounding, “St. Maxime Side” made with Absolut Elyx, lime juice, in-house made strawberry syrup and fresh basil.
 Heavenly chocolate bombe Pastry Chef Samantha Meissel is killing it with her Chocolate Almond Bomb made with gluten free almond sponge cake, amaretto syrup, dark chocolate mousse, honey almonds, and chocolate Chantilly. Other scrumptious desserts include, a fantastic salty caramel ice cream and refreshing summer sorbets, plus Tropical Pavlova with meringue cookie, Chantilly, mango and strawberry, tropical sorbet, and mango gel; the Bourbon Vanilla Crème Brûlée with citrus Madeleines; and the Valhrona Caramelia Sundae with chocolate sauce, and Chantilly.
And if you’re coming in later in the day, the hotel has refreshed their delightful Le Goûter program. It’s a French concept, used to break up the afternoon, and consists of light, small bites desserts. This delightful interpretation incorporates a mini Napoleon, a macaron, two small fresh fruit tarts, a mini vanilla brulee, and a Valhrona dark chocolate panna cotta. It is served between 2:00pm and 5:00pm every day with coffee, tea, or champagne.
 Le Gouter Sofitel Hotel DC, 806 15th Street, Washington, DC 20005 – 202 703.8800 www.Sofitel.com
Baba Bar – Clarendon
 Baba Bar’s intimate lounge Down a dark stairway and into the candlelight, Baba Bar is the super, sexy, small plates speakeasy where you don’t need a password to get in. Brought to you by the Ambar folks, who are right next door, this is a cozy hangout with banquettes and comfy armchairs, small tables and phenomenal cocktails where you can tuck into flavor-forward Balkan nibbles that, dare I say it, are healthy with lots of vegan and vegetarian options to go along with steak, salmon and seared scallops. You can even find the famed “Forest Gnocchi” here.
 “Forest Gnocchi” dessert Cocktails are listed under “Light & Refreshing”, “Strong & Boozy” and “Spicy & Smoky” to suit your mood. The spirits range from cachaça to rum, pisco to barrel-aged bourbon. Mezcal makes an appearance as does slivovitz and the Balkan firewater, rakia, of which they have more than half a dozen flavors.
 Cocktails Fresh fruits, herbs and vegetables, many from Amish farms, are used in the preparation of these cocktails, or “mocktails” if you prefer. It is one of the most excitingly diverse bar programs around. Of course, you would know this if you had visited Ambar’s two other outposts, the one on Capitol Hill, or the other next door.
That this hip spot serves brunch from 8am till 3pm blows my mind. Coffee is from the fantastic Philadelphia-based La Colombe. It doesn’t get any better. Good Morning, “La Colombe Martini”! I’m serious. Order one.
 (l-r) Wild mushroom toast with kajmak ~ Beet salad Little known secret – the kajmak, a type of butter used in the “Wild Forest Mushrooms” on toast and also the “Scallop Trio”, adds pulverized nori, bacon and parmesan cheese to this addictive spread. It is to die for!
 (l-r) Salmon tartare ~ Seared scallops Baba, 2901 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA 22201 – 703 312.7978 www.baba.bar
Silver
 Ype Von Hengst, Executive Chef Chef and Nutrition Guru Ype Von Hengst and Bob Giaimo have forged a powerful partnership with their Silver Diner restaurants. Last year we wrote about their latest venture, Silver, a stylish Art Deco-inspired restaurant in Bethesda that is a hugely popular neighborhood destination. The night we visited was “Meet the Chef” night and Ype was there in full-on gracious mode – charming guests and overseeing details. The monthly program was instituted this summer to introduce patrons to the congenial chef and it’s caught on – chiefly because of the Dutchman’s engaging personality.
Silver aims high. Hoping to be everything to everyone it boasts a menu jam packed full of nutritionally-dense ingredients, many sourced from local farms, elevated diner fare and upscale casual dishes. (Read more here – https://whiskandquill.com/nibbles-and-sips-around-town-december-26-2015)
 (l-r) Goat cheese bruschetta ~ Avocado toast On the night we visited the energetic Chef Ype, who has clearly discovered the fountain of youth, was dropping by each table with greetings for all the patrons. He made a few suggestions which we were glad to follow – the menu is enormous! – and we tried his recommendations beginning with the excellent Goat Cheese Bruschetta and Avocado Toast. Now I know they are ubiquitous these days, but these are exceptional. The bruschetta is made with a pine nut pesto, tomato, sunflower seeds and balsamic drizzle. See how many healthy ingredients are involved in this simple offering! Ditto for the avocado toast which incorporates queso fresco, thinly sliced radishes, tomatoes, pomegranate seeds and basil oil with the smashed avocado that is then served on slices of fresh country bread.
 (l-r) Creekstone Farms steak frites ~ Pan-seared ocean scallops Did we stop there? No, because my dinner partner had a hankering for a fine steak, while I had my eye on pan-seared ocean scallops with lemon garlic sauce. All the dishes listed on the menu are annotated with their respective calorie, fat, cholesterol, carb, fiber and protein counts. You know what you’re getting even if the dish you choose might compromise what limits you set for yourself.
But we weren’t there to enumerate our caloric consumption, so we dug into dessert with abandon. (Warning: Desserts do not come with calorie counts. You’re on your own here, though “Hand-Spun Shakes” can be ordered low-fat.) These are of the super yummy, over-the-top variety. Both the “Campfire Sundae” and the “Pistachio Mousse + Chocolate Brownie” plus fresh raspberries were satisfyingly delicious.
 (l-r) Pistachio mousse ~ Campfire sundae Check out “Pups on the Patio” every Thursday from 4pm till 7pm.
Silver, 7150 Woodmont Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20815 – 301 652.9780 www.EatSilver.com
Nederburg Wines at Hank’s Oyster Bar Prove a Winning Combination
Thanks to Nederburg and their we had a chance to revisit Hank’s where they paired their South African wines with some immaculately fresh seafood dishes and a heaven-can-wait lemon merengue pie.
 (l-r) Assortment of local oysters ~ Fried scallops and calamari and shrimp seviche Hosted by Andrea Freeborough, the Cellar Master of Nederburg, we heard the story of Nederburg and got a primer on the latest vintages. Established in 1791 the historic winery is on the Western Cape province of South Africa where they use a progressive and pioneering approach to winegrowing and winemaking that has earned them a wealth of respect worldwide.
We loved how nicely their wines from the new ultra-premium “Heritage Heroes” line sidled up to the seafood dishes as we tasted vintages from Nederburg’s latest vintages which includes The Brew Master, named for Johann Graue, a brew master in his native Germany who bought Nederburg in 1937 and adapted his experience to pioneer viticulture and winemaking in South Africa; The Young Airhawk that pays tribute to Johann Graue’s son, Arnold; and The Anchorman named for Nederburg’s founder, Philippus Wolvaart, who bought the farm in 1791 and planted Chenin Blanc, amongst other varietals such as the Winemaster’s Reserve Chenin Blanc. These vintages dovetail seamlessly into the summer season.
 Key lime pie Hank’s Capitol Hill, 633 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20003 – 202 733.1971 www.HanksOysterBar.com and for Nederburg winess visit www.TerlatoWines.com
Japanese Embassy Offers Culture and Cuisine to Travel Writers
 The display from the Japanese National Tourism Organization The Japanese Embassy and the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) along with JAL and purveyors of fine food and spirits presented a dazzling array of authentic musicians, sushi chefs and other traditional Japanese cuisine to excite travel writers and travel agents.
 Kyoto musician Held at the magnificent Ambassador’s residence on Nebraska Avenue, the seminar and reception was to celebrate the International Pow Wow (IPW), one of the country’s largest events to promote travel. The focus was on Tohuku, and featured some of their regional sakes. Tohuku is an area hard hit by the 2011 earthquake and tsunami and which is now welcoming tourists to their charming
 (l-r) Waterfalls in the Japanese tea gardens ~ The formal gardens at the Japanese Ambassadors’s residence The event host was Kelley Ferro, an award-wining travel journalist and filmmaker who visited Tohoku and created videos of her experience. Watch here – Tohoku.
Representatives from Shiki-Shima, Japan’s new ultra-luxurious, high speed sleeper train that travels from Tokyo to off-the-beaten track places like Tohuku, greeted visitors. H. E. Ambassador Kenichiro Sasae gave opening remarks before turning over the microphone to Keith Kirkham, Incoming Minister for Commercial Affairs for the embassy.
 (l-r) Buffet supper features Japanese delicacies ~ Sakes from Tohoku A toast was made, “Kanpai” followed by Kelley Ferro and a lavish dinner reception before Ryoichi Matsuyama, President of JNTO, gave closing remarks.
Peter Chang Opens Q in Rockville
 A soft opening at Q Peter Chang’s empire keeps growing. This is his seventh restaurant and all are located within Maryland and Virginia – all the better for Chang and his partner Jen Lee to check on their cooks and keep the standards up to snuff.
 Peter Chang (right) cuts up with his Chef de Cuisine at Q Their latest venture Q by Peter Chang is in a tony section of Rockville and boasts a glitzy outpost tailor made to showcase Chang’s fine Szechuan cuisine. A large sunken slate patio, with spaciously arranged tables, dresses up the street side. Inside it is ultra-modern with geometrically-shaped chandeliers and a concrete floor befitting Chang’s contemporary approach. Walls are paneled with carved dark woodwork and angular wood tables run alongside the green leather banquettes.
 The sunken patio at Q If you’ve ever dined in Chang’s other locations you’ll know that he doesn’t hold back on the heat. Seasonings can be fiery hot. Tiny Szechuan red chiles take center stage in many dishes, but ask and your server will point you to milder fare.
 Chicken with chiles I’ve learned that when the salt factor rises, it ameliorates the ferocity of the spiciness somewhat, as does the addition of some sweetener to the accompanying sauce. But don’t be surprised, even if you think you know Szechuan cuisine, if you’ll have to recalibrate your palate to adjust to these authentic dishes. And be sure to check out the dim sum platter. Served only at lunch, it consists of nine samplings rotated seasonally.
 (l-r) Pan-fried scallion and scallop dim sum – Scallop dim sum Faves: Pan-fried shrimp dumplings, scallion bubble pancakes, pork with chiles, roast duck pancakes, cumin lamb chops, “big buns”, pan-fried scallop or shrimp buns.
 (l-r) Cumin lamb chops – Peking duck Q by Peter Chang, 4500 East West Highway, Rockville, MD 20814 – 240 800.3722 www.qbypeterchang.com
Jordan Wright
June 2017
All Photo Credit: Jordan Wright
It’s been a whirlwind of restaurant openings, cookbook launches (more on those in a separate post), and embassy parties throughout the spring. If you’ve been missing our updates, it’s because we’re catching our collective breaths.
Barbecue, Y’all
 Myron Mixson (right) with Head Pitmaster and co-owner John Bennet on “Whole Hog” night Myron Mixon’s Pitmaster Barbeque opened in Old Town Alexandria and we got there on whole hog night. Mixon, whose BBQ competitions take him to far-flung American cities, heads to Old Town once a month to host his special “pig out” events (Check the restaurant’s website for the next one).
We saw a number of large groups who evidently make it a party night with friends and family. And now we know why! The four-time World “Memphis in May” BBQ champ has won over 220 Grand Championships and is the two-time New York Times best-selling author of “Smokin’ with Myron Mixson: Recipes Made Simple” and “Myron Mixson’s BBQ Rules: The Old-School Guide to Smoking Meat”. The congenial Mixson knows how to put his customers in hog heaven. Mixson describes his water-smoked barbecue, prepared in a smoker of his own design, as a combination of flavors and sides from North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and South Carolina. Don’t try to pin him down to one region. He won’t have it.
Mixson has an assortment of sauces. What BBQ joint doesn’t? But, good as they are, they were completely unnecessary. The flavor was locked deep inside the meat.
 Pulled pork, cole slaw, baked beans with peaches, and cupcake cornbread with orange maple butter Cooking in his father’s BBQ carry out joint since he was nine years old, he has been raising the stakes on other competitors for years. Last year Mixson won another. perhaps more serious, contest when he was sworn in as mayor of his hometown of Unadilla, GA.
 Ribs, potato salad, mac and cheese and pickles Faves: Pimento cheese, the ribs, the ribs, the ribs, cupcake cornbread (a large crusty muffin served with killer orange maple butter), potato salad, pulled pork stuffed deviled eggs, house made fresh pickles, and chocolate pie.
 Chocolate Pie at Myron Mixson’s Pitmaster Barbecue Good Food Mercantile at Union Market Features Fine Food Crafters
With a host of mostly local products to taste at this terrific event we wandered the aisles looking for new and game-changing products. To our delight we found some super-original, award-winning, artisanal products at this pop-up event at Union Market’s Dock Five.
 Dona Chai – chai tea concentrate Dona Chai, Brooklyn, NY – Chai tea concentrate.
 Sophia Maroon of Dress It Up Dressing Dress it Up Dressing, Chevy Chase, MD – Salad dressings with a pedigree – loved the “Champagne Vinaigrette” and “Blackberry Vinaigrette”.
 Kombucha and fermented veggies from Hex Ferments Hex Ferments, Baltimore, MD – Try the “Miso Kimchee” and “Sea Kraut” made with sea veggies. They also make three flavors of tasty kombucha in gift-worthy bottles. Loved the Carrot Juniper and Ginger.
 Mitch Berliner shows his new line of MeatCrafters’ Skinny Salamis MeatCrafters, Hyattsville, MD – “Skinny Salamis” – made from Duroc pork. Took them to a party and watched them disappear. In several varieties – Black Angus Beef, Truffle (pork), Street Cart Sharma (lamb), Merguez (lamb), Spicy Chorizo (pork) and Casbah (pork), they’d be amazing with beer cheese or a hot cheese dip.
Eliot’s Adult Nut Butters, Portland, OR – Simply crazy about the “Spicy Thai Peanut Butter “– perfect for Sesame Peanut Noodles – and the “Espresso Nib Peanut Butter” – fold into soft ice cream or use in S’mores.
 The team from Red Rooster Coffee Roaster with owner Haden Polseno-Hensley (center), Master Roaster Tony Greatorex (left) and Sales Mgr. Jolie Greatorex (right) Red Rooster Coffee Roaster– From the hippest town in Virginia – Floyd. Small batch roasted, the organic and fair trade certified green beans are sourced from Ethiopia, Kenya, Peru, Columbia, and Costa Rica and roasted in Floyd by this family-owned business.
Regalis Foods, NY, NY – A gourmet line of truffles, caviar and Carabinero prawns – from Ian “Truffle Boy” Purkayastha.
 Oliver Farm Benne Oil Oliver Farm, Pitts, GA – Cold pressed, award-winning, Southern artisan oils in flavors like pecan, benne, green peanut, sunflower, and pumpkin. They also mill the hard-to-find pecan flour and benne flour.
 Renato Vicario of Vicario Wine and Spirits Vicario Wine and Spirits, Greenville, SC – Wines, liqueurs and olive oil from Renato Vicario and Janette Wesley’s vineyard in Italy.
Update Leesburg
 A beautiful charcuterie board In Leesburg, Virginia we found two spots of note – The Wine Kitchen, located in the historic district, where Chef Tim Rowley prepares farm-to-table modern cuisine with a superb wine program in a casual atmosphere,
 Cream of Parsnip Soup with lardons and The Conche, a chocolate-themed restaurant housing a 300-square foot chocolate laboratory. The Conche is the newest venture from owner and celebrity chef Santosh Tiptur of DC’s Coco Sala.
Visit Colorado
The spring, summer and fall are the times I prefer visiting Colorado. I’m not a skier. Enough said. In the spring the wildflowers are magnificent, carpeting the hills and fields in all their glory. The summer is when the Arts are abloom with concerts and festivals throughout the state. Rodeo, anyone? And autumn begins the high season for skiers and leaf peepers.
 Rocky Mountain Underground ~ Photos courtesy Breckenridge Tourism The state divides itself up into nine regions – from the Plains in the Northeastern part of the state due west to the Northern Front Range to the Denver and Fort Collins area, then down through the Rockies where Vail, Aspen, Breckenridge and Steamboat Springs lie. From there go south to Paonia and the Grand Valley AVA of Grand Junction. Cortez is situated in the southwest corner adjacent to New Mexico. Two federally recognized American Viticultural Areas (AVA) are in West Elks in Paonia and Grand Valley near Grand Junction where many of the state’s finest food products come from these areas.
Recently the good folks from Visit Colorado held a press reception at The Kennedy Center to show off some of their crafted beverages to include indie beers, wines, sodas and ciders.
 Mom’s Baking Co introduce some tradition Czech Recipes and other modern European flavors ~ Photos courtesy Breckenridge Tourism They also had an array of specialty foods and brought Café Aion Chef/Owner Dakota Soifer, one of Boulder’s leading chefs, to prepare dishes from these products.
 A bountiful display of Colorado’s best cheeses, meats, breads and chocolates ~ Photo credit Jordan Wright Cheeses and lamb were front and center, as you’d have expected. Faves: James Ranch’s “Belford”, a butterscotch inflected cheese, and Avalanche Creamery’s handmade goat cheeses “Cabra Blanca”, a Tomme style cheese and “Finocchiona” with fennel and black pepper overtones. Tequila truffles courtesy of Telluride Truffle.
 Breckenridge French-inspired bistro Belle V. with family recipes from southern France ~ Photos courtesy Breckenridge Tourism The evening culminated with a rousing concert in the Opera House given by the Boulder Philharmonic.
Red’s Table Is a Fun Bike/Hike Away
Named after their grandfather “Red”, the brothers Ryan, Patrick and Matthew Tracy are thrilled to come “home” to the area they were raised to open Red’s Table. Located in the South Lakes Village Center in Reston overlooking beautiful Lake Thoreau, this lively neighborhood spot features a large patio overlooking both the lake and the bike/walk trail.
 Red’s Table in Reston Recent hire Executive Chef Kevin Ettenson returns to the area after working at hotels to head up the full-service restaurant.
Last week Ettenson switched to a summer menu adding some lighter dishes – burrata salad, watermelon salad, catfish with creole sauce over pasta, shrimp seviche, and fried green tomatoes. Pastry Chef Chris Works adds a new dessert called “Sundae Brunch”. It’s made with pieces of banana French toast chopped into squares, then fried and served with homemade butter pecan ice cream, bourbon caramel sauce and whipped cream.
 Fried calamari at Red’s Table The eclectic menu aims to please both the casual diner and the more discriminating palate with dishes that range from burgers, crab cakes and house made charcuterie to risotto style spring vegetable farro and steaks with beef from Virginia farms. The bar boasts excellent craft cocktails as well as a wide-ranging wine and beer program featuring over a dozen local beers. Right about now I’d go for the sangria chockfull of fresh fruits.
 Jumbo crab cakes at Red’s Table Brunch is serious here. Faves: Hangtown Frittata, Fried Oysters with Stone Ground Grits, Sausage Biscuit Sliders and a wealth of fresh seafood from the raw bar. The espresso blend coffee is from Monument Coffee Roasters in Manassas and it’s exceptional.
 House made biscuits at Red’s Table All breads and desserts, including an assortment of gelati and sorbets, are made in-house under Work’s direction.
If you plan to walk or bike after dining, enjoy either the Reston Red Trail (2.1 miles) around Lake Thoreau or the Turquoise Trail (4.74 miles) on Lake Audubon. If you’re on Metro get the Silver Line to the Wiehle-Reston East Metro exit onto Sunrise Valley Drive on the south side of the Metro. There is an off road path with a cross over to the back patio of the restaurant. It’s only one mile away from the South Lakes Village Center.
Tredici Enoteca Wows Dupont Circle
 The green velvet sofa beckons at Tredici Enoteca Sleek and chic, Tredici Enoteca has been a posh destination since it transformed in January. Located in Dupont Circle’s four-star St. Gregory Hotel it is a sophisticated multi-level space that reveals a bespoke library for lounging, a central fireplace with white marble surround under high coffered ceilings and space age chandeliers. A curving dark walnut stairway guides you to the topmost level overlooking the kitchen.
 The lively bar at Tredici Enoteca Antique mirrors and prints from a private collection adorn the walls, and a green velvet sofa coupled with black leather chairs at the entrance to the subway-tiled bar beckons you to sit a spell. It is one of the prettiest places in town. Skylights and a view to the street brighten up the brass-accented bar where you’ll want to try the smoked whisky cocktail.
 Double lamb lollipops at Tredici Enoteca The menu leans towards Mediterranean coastal fare with plenty of small plates if you just want to graze.
 Broccoli and avocado salad at Tredici Enoteca Executive Chef Carlos Aparicio, who came down from Philadelphia where he helmed restaurants for Marc Vetri and Stephen Starr, has brought his style and experience to the eclectic cuisine.
 “The Tredici Dutch” smoke infused cocktail Faves: Mixologist Israel Nocelo’s “The Tredici Dutch” – smoked infused rye whisky, Carpano Antica vermouth with house bitters and Luxardo cherry.
 Fresh from the raw bar at Tredici Enoteca Seafood samplers, mushroom toast, an unusual salad of broccoli and avocado with a sesame dressing, lasagna with lamb ragu, gnocchi, charred double lamb chops, squid ink tonarelli featuring cockles,
 Chocolate mousse cake at Tredici Enoteca and a decadently delicious chocolate mousse cake draped in ganache. Menu items may change by season.
 Steamed cockles atop squid ink pasta at Tredici Enoteca Taiwan Ambassador Flies in Top Chef for Exquisite Eight-Course Dinner
One of the most beautiful residences in the Cleveland Park district is the 26-room Georgian Revival mansion “Twin Oaks” where the Taiwanese ambassador entertains. Situated on 18-plus acres high atop a hill behind the National Cathedral, the home, built in 1888, originally served as the summer residence of Gardiner Greens Hubbard, the founder of the National Geographic Society. For nearly eight decades it has served as a host property welcoming many U. S. presidents and countless international guests through its doors.
 One of several drawing rooms at Twin Oaks Many priceless antiques including imperial rosewood carved furniture with dragon motifs once belonging to the Empress Dowager, as well as a magnificent painting from the Ch’ing period that graces the elegant blue accented drawing rooms.
 Ambassador and Mrs. Stanley Kao toast “80 Years of Elegance” with guests Donna Christenson and Cary Pollak This spring evening ROC Ambassador and Mrs. Stanley Kao hosted a remarkable evening to celebrate “80 Years of Elegance”. It called for a very special chef and the Ambassador had flown in Chef Yi-Jia Liu(劉宜嘉) long reputed for his exceptional culinary skills, in particular his Zhejiang cuisine expertise, for which he has won numerous prestigious culinary awards. His signature dish “Shaoxing Chicken” is one of the highest rated dishes in Taiwan.
In promoting Taiwanese culture, Liu has showcased his cooking in the United States by invitation of the Overseas Community Affairs Council. Currently Liu is the Executive Chef of the Howard Plaza Hotel’s Yangtse River Restaurant in Taipei.
 Dinner celebration at the Taiwan ambassador’s residence Gold embossed napkins depicting “Twin Oaks” graced the lace covered, candlelit tables along with bouquets of roses and hydrangeas.
 Shaoxing Chicken Chef Liu’s unique dishes had names such as “Welcoming Flowers of Salmon, Cuttlefish, Chicken and Beef Tendon”, “King Crab Soup with the Flavor of an Ancient Royal Dynasty”, “Taste of Lobster in the Atmosphere of Twin Oaks”, “Rice with Sakura Shrimp and Faint Aroma of Winter” and “Delight of Yin (Sesame Mochi) and Yang (Pork Dumpling)”.
 Chef Liu shows his carved vegetable flower to great applause For the guests’ entertainment tenor Jason Ma, Deputy Director of the Congressional Liaison Division, sang the theme song “Nella Fantasia” from the movie, The Mission.
 Chef Liu’s carved watermelon chrysanthemum It was a magical night filled with delectable dishes, hand-selected wines, scintillating conversation and a few shots of the very potent Taiwanese fermented sorghum liqueur!
Afghan Embassy Highlights Theatre, Poetry and Music with Food and Festivities
 Afghan Ambassador Hamdullah Mohib gives opening remarks H. E. Ambassador and Mrs. Mohib hosted a sumptuous dinner to announce their participation in “Women of Troy/Voices of Afghanistan”, a cross-cultural collaboration set in the world’s longest contemporary field of war.
 Guests enjoy the entertainment at the Afghan Embassy Over a dozen performers will participate in the January 2018 event with many of the women coming from Afghanistan. The special project will be produced by the Alliance for New Music-Theatre led by Susan Galbraith, the creator, co-writer and director, with poet and writer, Yalda Baktash. Alliance for New Music – Theatre is the “Theatre in Residence” at Dupont Underground, DC’s new subterranean arts and culture center under Dupont Circle.
 Afghani delights of kebab, bolani and pilaf The dinner introduced us to bolani (pronounced bo-lah-nee), a delicious stuffed flatbread filled with herbs, green onions and potatoes along with many other Afghan delicacies.
 Afghani instruments Milad Yousofi, a composer and Rubab (a lute-like instrument) player who works in Afghan folk, World Jazz and Fusion music, gave a concert with accompanied by a hand drummer. We particularly admired the craftsmanship of gorgeous carpets and Afghan jewelry that Zamani House of Heritage had on display.
Get updates for Alliance for New Music-Theatre .
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