Tag Archives: dc

Nora’s First for Organic Eating

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Usually trends are set in New York or Los Angeles, but the Nora Restaurant started one of the best culinary trends as of late: organic eating. Being the first certified organic restaurant in the United States, Nora’s knows how to cook with the heart and body in mind. Not only is the food good for you, it is also really good. The Nora Restaurant was voted OpenTable.com’s Diners’ Choice Winner this year. At Nora’s, once you go organic, you can never go back.

The Non-Denominational National Cathedral’s Rich History

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The most interesting thing about D.C.’s National Cathedral is not its beautiful windows or architecture, but its rich history that dates back to America’s first president and stays relevant to today’s biggest moments.

Picture 140The idea of a non-denominational cathedral that was equally open to all was first conceived in 1791 by Major Pierre l’Enfant, who was commissioned by President George Washington.But it would have to wait until 1907, under Theodore Roosevelt’s presidency, to come to fruition.

The first services were held in 1912 and the Cathedral was quickly accepted as a place for services of national focus, and services have been held daily since its opening. Memorable services include the dedication of Woodrow Wilson’s tomb in 1956, Dr. Martin Luther King’s 1968 sermon (which would be his last), and the National Prayer and Remembrance service on September 14th, 2001.

Visit the National Cathedral and experience a piece of the history of Washington D.C. On Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons visitors can enjoy tea, scones and tarts on the 7th floor of the West Tower. With a great view, it’s a nice way to stop and take it all in.

Honor and Remember at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial

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As a tribute to the men and women who died in the controversial Vietnam War, Maya Linn designed this memorial with a simplicity that she hoped would “allow everyone to respond and remember.”  Divided into three memorials, each one is special and evokes a powerful message.

The memorial consists of the Three Soldiers Statue, VietnamPicture 5 Women’s Memorial, and the most well known of them all, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall, which lists the names of those who died as a result of the war. The latter is made of two long, black granite walls that reflect the surrounding trees, grass, and other Vietnam monuments to create a peaceful and serene atmosphere. There are 58,261 names currently inscribed in the Memorial Wall, with one wall pointing towards the Washington Memorial and the other at the Lincoln Memorial.

The Three Soldiers Statue is a bronze sculpture and was built to complement the Memorial Wall, with the three soldiers looking towards the wall in tribute. Also visit the Vietnam Women’s Memorial, which depicts three uniformed women with a wounded soldier. Visiting this site is a moving and powerful experience, regardless of one’s personal experience to the war.

The U.S. Botanic Garden is Always in Bloom

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Right next to bustling Capitol Hill is haven of breathtaking Picture 15flowers, roses and gardens at the U.S. Botanic Garden. Tracing its beginnings to 1816, The U.S. Botanic Garden the oldest of its kind in North America.

It is divided into three locations: the Conservatory, Bartholdi Park, and the National Garden. The newly renovated Conservatory is one big greenhouse divided into separate rooms and holds over 4,000 living species. Each room simulates a different habitat and contains various types of plants that ordinarily would not survive in Washington D.C., from desert species to Southern plants to medicinal plants.

Bartholdi Park serves as a home landscape demonstration garden and is home to a beautiful fountain that is 30 feet high. There is also the National Garden, which contains the Rose Garden and the First ladies Water Garden, as well as an outdoor amphitheater.

An Unbelievable Point of View at POV Roof Terrace

In the mood for a sexier side of DC?  Head up to POV (“Point of View”), DC’s trendiest rooftop bar and lounge, situated just across from The White House at the new, boutique W Hotel.  Anticipation will rise as you make your way up to the 11th floor terrace, accompanied by an attractive, clipboard-bearing staff member.  Be sure to do a little star gazing on your way up – the shimmering constellations on the elevator ceiling resemble the same pattern as that on the night of July 4, 1776!

Doors open and….WOW.pov Once you’ve recovered from the mind-blowing views where you can literally touch The White House and the glowing Washington Monument is spectacular. Grab a seat at one of the comfy, red velveteen banquettes and sip one of NYC cocktail guru Sasha Petraske’s sinful concoctions as you spy on the neighbors. After a few drinks, patrons swear they can see the lights flicker as the Obamas say goodnight to Washington.

With fresh juices poured from glass beakers and a customized ice program (certain drinks get ice spears vs. chiseled from a block), there’s no doubt Petraske’s creations are a true marriage of both science and art.  Be sure to try his famous Dark & Stormy, made with zesty homemade ginger beer.

Insider Tip: Be sure to make a reservation beforehand (smaller parties should use opentable.com) – the hotel reserves a certain amount of seating for their guests whether they show or not, and the line halts at the elevator.

Visit George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate

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George Washington’s plantation on the banks of the beautiful Potomac River offers visitors a chance to understand America’s first hero and the fascinating world in which he lived. Since the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association bought the nearly empty Mansion in 1858, it has gathered Washington objects and used archaeology and research to piece together clues about the buildings and gardens of a bygone era. Over 1 million visitors come to walk in Washington’s footsteps each year, making Mount Vernon the most popular historic estate in America.

Members Only Rock ‘N Roll at The Rookery

Say goodbye to the grimy, Journey-blasting dives of old Picture 11and hello to “The Rookery,” an upscale live music hotspot that hosts a variety of talent every Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.  Located just beyond Georgetown in DC’s West End, The Rookery is an exclusive, “member’s only” hang-out where Washington’s young creme de la creme congregate over the tunes of local cover bands and national touring classic rockers – all beneath the simple elegance of crystal chandeliers, of course.

A semi-private hotspot for the 30-something conservative Preppy (Luke Russert and the Bush twins have been known to frequent the bar), The Rookery boasts a heated outdoor patio and two floors of rich, dark decor, complete with sport coat-clad patrons.  Grab a bourbon and some dancing shoes (preferably loafers) and get ready for a true Washingtonian-style jam session.  Just remember, collared shirt required.

Insider Tip: Go early and grab a bite to eat before you stake out your place near the stage.  The Rookery has an impressive menu to fuel some serious dance moves.  Shows usually start around 10:00 PM with a $5.00 entrance fee.

5. Celebrate Beethoven’s Birthday to His Music on 12/16/09

Entertain--MusicSure, Beethoven’s birthday may not be a national holiday, but it’s always good to have an excuse to hear exquisite music. A string quartet made up of Ann Shein on the piano, Earl Carlyss on the violin, Darrett Adkins on the cello, and Jerome Barry as the baritone voice, will bring Beethoven’s music to life. Tickets do sell fast so make sure to book ahead.

Sleep Chic at The Donovan House

Picture 2Step away from the political frenzy and into the intimate, modern oasis of The Thompson Hotel Group’s The Donovan House. Located just off Thomas Circle on busy 14th Street, this boutique hotel, known for its impeccable service, is a breath of fresh air from the notoriously “stuffy” Washington hotels. The sleek, minimalist decor and swanky vibe are perfect for the hip, sophisticate looking to take advantage of the nation’s Capitol.

Open since early 2008, The Donovan House boasts just under 200 rooms, outfitted in stark white decor with unique cocoon-like showers and dramatic, extended leather headboards. Freshen up after a long trip with complimentary Kiehl’s bath products or indulge in the fabulous Dean & Deluca mini bar before cozying up to luxurious Sferra sheets.

Insider Tip: For added value, book in the warmer months and be sure to take advantage of The Donovan House’s exclusive rooftop bar and pool lounge, ADC (“Above DC”). Take in breathtaking views while you sip a cool cocktail or two at DC’s trendiest warm-weather hotspot.

Sophisticated CityZen at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel

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Chef Eric Ziebold, named one of “America’s Best New Chefs 2005” by Food & Wine Magazine, explores modern Picture 2American cuisine at this elegant D.C. restaurant. With three menus to choose from –  a three-course prix fixe, a six-course tasting menu or a vegetarian tasting menu – patrons have the opportunity to sample a wide array of what the menu has to offer.

In order to incorporate only the freshest ingredients into his dishes, Chef Ziebold changes the menu frequently. So come back for seconds and you’re likely to find new dishes for your sampling pleasure. High ceilings, an open kitchen, a warm color scheme and decorative lighting work together to create this sophisticated and chic top-tier restaurant.

Strathmore’s Elegant Acoustics and Diverse Artists

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Picture 23Rolling hills in an intimate, park-like setting. If this sounds like the description of an outdoor concert, you’re wrong. This is actually what the architects of the new Strathmore Music Center tried to recreate, and they have succeeded in creating an artistic haven for musicians, dancers and every other kind of artist.

With 1,976 seats wrapping around the stage under the undulating roof and curving balconies, the concert hall is beautiful and elegant. It’s not just about looks either. There are 43 individually controlled acoustical reflector panels as well as a ceiling that slopes upward from the stage, allowing for rich and full acoustics for any kind of performance. And these aren’t just any kind of performances.

Having hosted many famous artists, from Yo-Yo Ma to Wilco, the Music Center is also home to the famous Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. The Strathmore presents affordable and accessible artistic performances all year-round. There are also more intimate performances, as well as art exhibits and lectures, at the 100-seat Strathmore Mansion (located next to the Music Center), which can be rented for weddings and other events.

It may be in Maryland, but the Strathmore Theatre is just minutes from the Beltway. For an amazing artistic experience, this is the place to go.

Take it Slow at Theodore Roosevelt Island

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Whether you’d like to take a run or enjoy the picturesque scenery and touching memorial, the Theodore Roosevelt Island is a beautiful place to visit. Located in the middle of the Potomac River, the island was re-named and made a national memorial to commemorate the heroic 26th U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt. Enjoy the scenic beauty of this island, but make sure to bring your walking shoes. The only way to access the island is through a footbridge from Arlington, Virginia and no cars or bicycles are allowed.

Escape to Rome at the Franciscan Monastery

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When you think of D.C. architecture, the first thing that comes to mind is usually not a Roman style building. Yet, that’s exactly what you’ll find at the Mount St. Sepulchre Franciscan Monastery .Picture 6

This DC National Historical Monument is absolutely stunning. Stroll through the gardens and take a moment to enjoy the beautiful landscape. Undergroudn, there’s a replica of Roman catacombs, which is quite an experience in itself. There is also an archive, a library, and bones of Saint Benignus of Armagh, brought from the Italian Roman Catacombs.

The Byzantine style church was designed by the Roman architect Aristide Leonori and built in 1898. Around the church is the Rosary Portico, with 15 chapels commemorating Jesus and Mary. The monastery grounds contain replicas of shrines in the Holy Land, as well as a greenhouse. The Franciscan Monastery is definitely a unique landmark in the middle of the nation’s capital.

Stellar Service at Andre Chreky Salon

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With luxuries like grand piano music, cappuccino, espresso and fine Picture 6pastries, you may want to book a vacation at the Andre Chreky Salon instead of just a massage. This salon and day spa indulges everything from hair and nails to face and body.

Andre Chreky’s philosophy of stellar service for star clients can be seen any day of the week, with Mr. Chreky himself making an almost constant personal presence in the salon. The  Andre Chreky Salon offers express services, extended hours, fuss-free maitenance, discretion, and luxury so that each client leaves feeling like a VIP.

Try an herbal body wrap, complete with a highly concentrated aromatherapeutic serum to ensure hydration. Spoil yourself or someone you love with a package to relax, renew and rejuvenate the mind and body.

DC’s Chic, Sleek Spa: SomaFit

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Work or play, SomaFit has your body’s needs covered. You can start off with a killer workout in their fitness facilities then grab a healing Carnio Sacral Massage and top off the day with a treat, like the glowing Oxygen Facial. It doesn’t need to be an all day excursion (although that’s always on top of the wish list), you can stop in to get an express manicure or pedicure.

At SomaFit you can buy a fitness package and take a class in a Kukuwa dance workout or body sculpting, then reward yourself with pampering. Now, that’s taking care of your body.

Random Harvest’s Eclectic Mix of Old and New

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randomharvest1This beautifully edited furniture store in D.C. looks like a well designed home. At Random Harvest Antiques & Home Furnishings, you can find the perfect mix of antique, vintage and newly manufactured furniture to make your own abode look like it came out of a design show makeover. From elegant to rustic, formal to casual, each piece is of high quality and is refreshingly affordable.

Random Harvest is the perfect spot to find the one item you’re missing or to make your home unique and special. Random Harvest has four stores in the D.C. area, including this jewel in Georgetown.

Hunt for Vintage Treasures at the Georgetown Flea Market

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People from all over the D.C. area have been coming to this world famous flea market since 1972, from Diane Keaton to Pulitzer Prize-winning author Larry McMurtry. Previously holding space in Arlington, VA, Georgetown Flea Market has made it back to its hometown- trendy Georgetown!

Shop Page--Home and LivingOver 100 vendors bring their goods to the market on Sundays and are ready to bargain, so don’t be afraid to bring that price down. Prices range from cheap to expensive, but there are always great deals- and hidden treasures- to be found. Whether you are a collector or just looking for something interesting, it’s hard to go away empty handed. The lot also houses a Farmers Market on Saturdays, where you’ll find artisanal cheeses, organic meats, fresh produce, herbs and flowers, and delicious baked goods for your tasting pleasure.

With an extensive collection of antiques, collectibles, jewelry, vintage furnishings, glassware, artwork and vintage clothing, there’s something for every vintage junkie.