Washington, DC in Pictures and Highlights

I spent a weekend in Washington DC with a good friend just in time for the cherry blossoms festival.

The full slideshow:

Food Highlights:

• Founding Farmers: 1924 Pennsylvania Ave. NW (20th/Pennsylvania)
• Jaleo -480 7th Street NW - Spanish, Tapas - a brainchild of my favorite new chef, Jose Andres and really playful and authentic flavors (if not preparations).  Loved seeing him with Bourdain on the Washington DC show on No Reservations

• Ben’s chili bowl: 1213 U St NW (near 12th st) - I had no idea they could cram so much flavor into a single half-smoke (a half beef, half pork hot dog, seared and covered with chili)
• Tabard Inn: 1739 N St (17/18th) - a thoroughly charming brunch location set in a lovely inn.  Get the freshly fried donuts, don't eat too many of the complimentary muffins and also try the eggs benedict with house-made ham
• Busboys and Poets: 2021 14th St (and V) - a spacious, bustling and adorable cafe, spoken word performance houes and bookstore
• Dupont circle farmers' market - great cheeses, pastries, veggies and flowers

Places to hit next time:

• Minibar: 6 seats, 2 seatings a night, food from Jose Andres' crazy imagination and some of the most creative cuisines this side of the world make this spot impossible to get reservations for.  Already planning my next trip to DC if I can ever manage to snag a resy.
• Cafe Atlantico brunch: latin dim sum!
• Madam's Organ (dance – Adams Morgan) 2461 18th Street, NW