Tag Archives: intimate

The Phillips Collection: Have Cocktails with Renoir

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For a more cultured look at the city, take a trip to popular Dupont Circle to America’s first museum of modern art, the Phillips Collection. Opened in 1921 and housed in the former home of the collection’s founder, Duncan Phillips, the Phillips Collection combines the charm of an intimate, private art institution with awe-inspiring works found typically at larger, government-run galleries (think stumbling upon Renoir’s “Luncheon of the Boating Party” while having tea with a friend).

With priceless modern and impressionist works from both American and European artists, the Phillips Collection houses an impressive permanent collection with several works from Mark Rothko, Georgia O’Keefe, Renoir and van Gogh. The museum also includes works from contemporary, living artists to add to its diverse exhibits. Despite its size, the Phillips Collection seems to always be rotating new special exhibits to accentuate their impressive permanent collection.

Insider Tip: Visit the gallery on the first Thursday of every month for their entertaining, “Phillips After 5” event from 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM. With live jazz, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, as well as gallery lectures and films, this artisanal party attracts young, cultured patrons from around the city looking to enjoy the gallery in a more social atmosphere!

*Note: The Phillips Collection is closed on Mondays and holidays.

Spirited Performances at The Studio Theatre

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Pull that curtain open and opt for an evening you won’t soon forget with an intimate performance at Logan Circle’s eclectic Studio Theatre. Founded in 1978 with a passionate mission of bringing innovative theatre to the performing arts community, The Studio Theatre boasts quality performances with a provocative, spunky edge that’s unique to Washington.

With both American and European works performed in four intimate theatres, The Studio Theatre prides itself on setting the stage for an intimate interaction between actor and audience. From Mamet’s American Buffalo to Nobel winning playwright Harold Pinter’s Moonlight to portraying Joan Crawford in drag in The Passion of the Crawford, grab tickets to one of the Theatre’s one-of-a-kind performances and settle in to an eclectic evening full of incredible plays from some of the best playwrights in the world.

Insider’s Tip: Depending on the night, tickets range from about $35-$65. For risky patrons looking to save a few travel dollars, take advantage of the Rush Tickets, available for certain performances for just $30, 30 minutes before the show (select performances listed on the website). The Theatre also offers Pay What You Can deals for specific performances, 2 hours before the show (2 ticket limit).

Travel to The City of Lights at Cafe Bonaparte

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For those unable to make it abroad, but looking for a delectable European dining experience, travel no further than Georgetown’s quaint, Café Bonaparte. Take a trip to The City of Lights at this small French bistro packed with big flavor and an authentic Parisian atmosphere.

Breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner, Café Bonaparte is equally delicious with a wide variety of traditional French favorites mixed with a few creative twists on classics. Try a sinful savory or sweet crepe, or opt for a creative omelet to satisfy your morning cravings.

For an evening out, start off with the crispy Crepe Chips topped with apples and brie before losing yourself in rich, French specialties: Beef Bourguignon, Steak Frites and Duck Confit with Orange Demi Glace. With limited seating in a cozy, upscale bistro atmosphere, Bonaparte is the perfect spot for an intimate, yet relaxed meal – and a tiny piece of Paris hidden in our very own Capital.

Insider Tip: In true Parisian style, Café Bonaparte offers equally alluring cocktails. Take advantage of the Café’s half price cocktails every Monday. The Café Couture (Grey Goose pear, cardamom, fresh lemon juice and honey) is an exotic concoction that will have you speaking the romance language by the end of the evening.

NOKIA Live & It Will Thrive

From Lady Gaga’s Monster Ball to Mo’nique’s Spread the Love Comedy Tour, NOKIA Live in Downtown Los Angeles is the premier venue for every concert, performance or comedic throw down the City of Angels has to offer.

Breaking all the rules in 2007, NOKIA Live opened its doors to fans so they would get to experience an intimate performance from their favorite performers without paying the price. The indoor theater, which can seat close to 7,000, is conveniently located near Staples Center where an extreme portion of L.A. action is generally taking place on any given night.

Though the NOKIA Theater is worth visiting, those craving an even more intimate experience should pay close attention to Club NOKIA, a state-of-the-art theater that can seat a little over 2,000 people. This “club” is home to emerging and new artists, bands and shows that are looking to launch their careers but may already have a decent following.

Thanks to Club NOKIA and NOKIA live, Angelinos don’t have to venture far to witness their favorite up and coming band or sold out superstar. They can enjoy the benefits of being in the heart of downtown with an experience that feels too personal to put a price tag on.

DC’s Best Indie at The Black Cat

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Kings of Leon. Death Cab. The Strokes. The Black Cat’s mission is to bring D.C. locals and visitors the best in live independent music and it’s been succeeding since its opening in 1993. Located in the famous U Street Corridor, the club has served as a staple in Washington DC’s alternative music scene and draws large crowds with its live bands and DJ sets.

Nightly, The Black Cat hosts bands on the local, national, and international levels. Major names include Arcade Fire, Beck, Andrew WK, Korn, Moby, The Killers, Jamiroqui, Foo Fighters, and the list could continue all night. With its cool atmosphere and even cooler bands, The Black Cat is always on the forefront of alternative, independent music.

Surin of Thailand: Atlanta’s Asian Persuasion

Want an alternative to the neighborhood Chinese buffet? Not quite adventurous to try the downtown Sushi bar? Then take a short drive to Virginia highlands for Surin of Thailand. Tucked away on the outskirts of the Atlanta skyline is this cozy dining hotspot that’s a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.

Upon entering this intimate dining chalet, guests are greeted by a fragrant floral bouquet, giving the room not only a feeling of Asian paradise, but that of being at home. The long tables are meant for family style dining, perfect for dinner parties or family outings. There are also private tables for special occasions or simply a romantic dinner for two.

Patrons enjoy a wide range of Thai cuisine including Roasted Duck with Red Curry, Crab Angels and a variety of Stir Fry options. All, of course, can be paired with a glass of delectable Plum wine.

Get Some Rhythm at Georgetown’s Blues Alley

For a little rhythm and blues, take a trip back in time to the nation’s oldest jazz supper club, Blues Alley, hidden between the quaint streets of historic Georgetown in an 18^th century, brick carriage house. With saxophones and bass guitars echoing off the intimate, exposed brick interior, you can’t help but tap your foot as talented artists from around the country liven up the nearly 45 year-old nightclub.

Enjoy a leisurely, Creole-style meal (the menu has hardly changed since 1965) and a glass of wine while you are blown away by old school tunes that will have you scrambling for a CD on your way out. Over the years, Blues Alley has hosted jazz movers and shakers such as Dizzy Gillespie, Charlie Byrd and Eva Cassidy, so you’ll get a little taste of history along with your dinner.

Insider Tip: Blues Alley is open 7 days a week, but fills to the brim right before shows. Be sure to make a reservation and get there a little early – pre-show tickets are available online.

Ted’s Montana Grill

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Beef and bison are king at Ted Turner’s restaurant chain. Ted’s Montana Grill is known for its burgers — but has other great dishes like beer-can chicken, bison prime rib and cedar planked salmon. It’s comfort food done in an intimate masculine setting. The vibe is cozy with plenty of mahogany, tin ceilings and Arts and Crafts-style décor. Catch a drink here after work or bring in the family. Ted’s is always packed with people looking for a filling meal.

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