February 2008

See also:
>> Hotel Construction Update
>> Transportation Updates
>> 2008 Convention Outlook
>> WCTC Sales & Services Update

What's New on the DC Dining Scene

DC's dining scene is a destination for all types of events, from business conferences to casual cocktail parties. Here's the latest on the newest eateries and news on recent renovations to some of DC's classic restaurants.

Wine lovers find a new event destination with Vinoteca - a new addition to DC's growing collection of wine bars, located in the U Street corridor. The cozy wine retreat accommodates up to 100 guests for private events in its elegant split-room, aptly named the ‘Vinolounge.' Event planners can customize a wine menu from more than 60 wines from around the world and create specialty charcuterie and cheese boards. For more information, contact Diego Cerezo at (202)-332-9463 or by email at [email protected].

For a taste of the UK right here in the District, try Kemble Park Tavern, a tavern-style eatery in the Palisades neighborhood that captures the spirit of 18th and 19th century English countryside. The menu features comfort fare like short ribs sliders, grits and sausage, bread pudding and more. Kemble Park Tavern's private dining area accommodates up to 16 guests, plus the spacious bar area may be reserved for cocktail parties of approximately 45 patrons. For more information, call (202) 966-5125.

Coming in spring 2008 to Dupont Circle, the elegant Black Fox Lounge bills itself as an "Executive Lounge,"catering to upscale professionals living in or visiting DC. Business clients and party-goers can expect club service typically experienced in the lounges of world-class hotels and inns. This opulent new venue offers a tasty assortment of cheeses, a paté trio, smoked salmon sandwiches, chocolate truffles, along with a vast selection of cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, and premium wines. Black Fox Lounge is now taking reservations for cocktail parties and receptions for 150 guests for a cocktail party or reception. A private room is available for media presentations and business conferences of up to 25 guests. For details, call (202) 265-0030.

Diners searching for a taste of the Caribbean with a hint of French flair can feast on small, shareable plates at Café Tropé in Dupont Circle. Menu highlights include Jamaican Jerk Chicken Lollipop with fried cabbage, Vidalia onion and potato hash; Filet of Beef Rossini with potato allumette; Plantain Crusted Oyster with arugula, Roquefort cheese and Old Bay aioli; and Rum and Apple Cider Cured Pork Tenderloin with sweet potato puree and rum sauce. Opened in December 2007, the charming eatery offers two private dining rooms, the first of which can accommodate 12 people and the second of which holds 30 guests for a seated dinner. Call (202) 223-9339 for details.

Seafood lovers can host their next event in the new tasting room at Blacksalt, an upscale fish market in upper Georgetown. Executive Chef Jeff Black is committed to the sustainability of fish and shellfish stocks and sources his products from like-minded companies and individuals. Blacksalt offers mouth-watering selections such as Chesapeake Bay Blue crab cakes, Oysters on the half shell, Wild Alaskan halibut and spiced Hawaiian blue marlin. A private dining room featuring a five-course chef tasting option is available with seating for approximately 30 guests. To book an event, call (202) 342-9101.

A power dining favorite, Sam and Harry's recently expanded its private dining options to accommodate large dinner parties and events. Debuted in December 2007, the Fitzgerald Room offers seating for up to 46 guests - the largest of the restaurant's seven private dining rooms. This classic steakhouse features the finest prime-aged beef available. Menu highlights include Center Cut Filet Mignon with Béarnaise sauce, Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes with lemon herb tartar sauce, Prime Aged Ribeye, plus the chef's fresh selection of seafood. For booking information contact Rachael Krieger at (202) 296-4333.

Another power spot, Morton's The Steakhouse offers a new way to experience patio dining year round. Still nestled on the second floor above Connecticut and L Streets, NW, the renowned steakhouse has been redesigned into a state-of-the-art all season dining and reception space after months of renovation. The balcony patio is encased with retractable, rain-proof clear plastic sheeting, resistant to the strong wind and winter weather. Inside the thin, transparent walls, guests enjoy the Morton's experience under brilliant heated umbrellas towering 12 feet from the ground that are designed to keep patrons warm and toasty during the cold winter months. For reservations or for more information on how to book private events on the all-season patio, call (202) 955-5997.

There's also a new venue available for planners with a sweet tooth - and a taste for one-of-a-kind events. Artfully Chocolate Kingsbury Confections brings together a chocolate shop, a cocoa and espresso bar and art gallery under one delicious roof. Located in Logan Circle, ACKC offers an array of novelty items for personal or corporate gifts and hosts event receptions and business networking events for up to 100 guests. If you're looking for a creative way to entertain a group of 40 guests or fewer, try their chocolate making class. For details, call (202) 387-2626.

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