On Tap Magazine // June 2018

Drink. Dine. Do. June 2018

WATERFRONT WEATHER DC’S RIVERSIDE NEIGHBORHOODS

OUTDOOR VIBES ROOFTOP BARS BEER GARDENS URBAN FARMING INSIDE DC’S

PRIDE

CELEBRATIONS

WINERY DC +INDIECITYLEGENDS THE EELS STUDIO THEATRE’S THE REMAINS

ELECTRO-POP DUO

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The prices of our homes, included features, plans, speci�cations, promotions/incentives, neighborhood build-out and available locations are subject to change without notice. Stated dimensions, SQuare footage and acreage a1e approximate and should not be used as a representation of any home's or homesite's precise or actual size, location or orientation. There is no guarantee that any particular homesite or home will be available. No information or material herein is lo be construed to bean offe101 solicitation for sale. Not all features and options are available in all homes. Unless otherwise expressly stated,homes do not come with hardscape, landscape, or other decorator Items.Community maps,illustrations,plansand/or amenitiesrenectourcurrent visio�andaresubjecttochangewithoutnotice. Mapsnotto scale.Someameniliesmay not yet be construct urchasea home.Pleasecoosulta New HomeAdviso1 forspecilicpriceandolher information for each community.

Please see the actual purchase agreement for additional information,disclosu,es,and disclaime� relating toanvhome,homesiteand/orthefeatures thereof. A Broker/Agent must register their client in pe�on on client's first visit at each community for a Broker/Agent to receive a commission or referral fee.if available. OUI name and the logos contained he1ein are registered trademarks of TRI Pointe Group, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. Winchester is a registered trademark and is used with permission. MHBR No. 57. ©2018WinchesterHomes lnc.,amemberof the TRIPointeGroup.All rightsreserved. BUILDER Magazine namedffilPointeGroupthe Builderof theYearin201S. The Builder of theYear Awa1d is BUILDER'S highest vearlv honor.1 Builcler and Developer Magazine,a national homebuilding publication,named TRIPointe the Developer of theYear in2014.

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JOIN US! For a Grand Opening celebration at VY / Reston Heights, Reston’s newest upscale apartments.

Enjoy complimentary food and drinks from some of Reston’s finest restaurants, musical entertainment, and model apartment tours.

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Table of Contents who is on tap?

June 2018: Vol 20 No 7 SUmmer sitdowns and standups Spring we barely knew ye! The heat came and took over the weather in the blink of an eye, and just like that, June is here.

This month marks a pivotal point in the calendar as a ton of happenings shift outdoors. Not sure where to begin? Check out the hottest (no pun intended) neighborhoods in the DMV. We explored the best boozy views, giving your drinks the perfect Instagram backdrop. This month also brings Pride celebrations and all of the events that make it such a powerful experience. We also dug into DC’s urban farming scene, discovering how local organizations help keep the city eco-friendly. For those looking to escape the heat, step into Studio Theatre to check out Ken Urban’s The Remains, or if music is more your speed, peep our profile highlighting indie rockers Eels’ return to music at the Lincoln Theatre or the lowdown on local pop duo Broke Royals. And last but certainly not least, check out our cover story on Sylvan Esso, who will bestow the District with electric tunes at The Anthem in July.

Drink. Dine. Do. June 2018

WATERFRONT WEATHER

ELECTRO-POP DUO

DC’S RIVERSIDE NEIGHBORHOODS

OUTDOOR VIBES ROOFTOP BARS BEER GARDENS URBAN FARMING INSIDE DC’S

PRIDE

CELEBRATIONS

+

CITY WINERY DC INDIE LEGENDS THE EELS STUDIO THEATRE’S THE REMAINS

On the cover: Sylvan Esso

Designer: Alanna Sheppard

Founder James Currie Publisher Jennifer Currie

jennifer@ontaponline.com

Managing Editor Monica Alford

monica@ontaponline.com

Assistant Editor Trent Johnson trent@ontaponline.com

Print & Digital Design Nick Caracciolo Devin Overbey Alanna Sheppard KEY ACCOUNT MANAGER Tom Roth tomroth@ontaponline.com

Account Executive Natalia Kolenko

In this Issue

natalia@ontaponline.com

n Stage & Screen Stage & Screen Events........................... 4 Studio Theatre’s The Remains.............. 6

n Pride In DC

8

6 Studio Theatre’s The Remains

DC Celebrates Pride

Comedy Explores Gay Divorce

City Supports LGBTQ+ Community

DC Celebrates Pride .............................. 8 Day in the Life: Michele Irimia-Bernabe....10 Did You Know? DC Pride Edition....... 12

n June ROundup Drink, Dine, Do...................................... 13 Waterfront Neighborhoods................ 34

n Sports World Cup Spots................................... 30

n Dining

34

38

Waterfront Weather

Farming in the City

DC’s Riverfront Neighborhoods

DC’s Urban Agriculture Movement

New & Notable.. ..................................... 48 Farming in the City............................... 52

n Drinks Beer Garden Season............................. 54 Cocktails with a View........................... 56 Behind the Bar....................................... 60 What’s On Tap?...................................... 64 City Winery Opens in Ivy City.. ........... 68

Digital & Advertising coordinator Kayla Marsh kayla@ontaponline.com

Events & promotions manager Shannon Darling shannon@ontaponline.com

Events & promotions ASSISTANT Katie Seaman katies@ontaponline.com

OUTREACH COORDINATOR Kelcie Glass kelcie@ontaponline.com

Contributing Writers

Tess Ankeny, Michael Coleman, M.K. Koszycki, Keith Loria, Michael Loria, Travis Mitchell, Fareeha Rehman, Jean Schindler, Alex Thompson, Amanda Weisbrod

Contributing Photographers

Beauty by Photography, Mark Caicedo, James Coreas, Michelle Goldchain, Savannah Jeter, Mike Kim, M.K. Koszycki, Kayla Marsh, Aja Neal, Cristina O’Connell, Devin Overbey On Tap Magazine is published 11 times per year. ©2018 by Five O’Clock Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. Use or reproduction of any materials contained herein is strictly prohibited without express prior written consent. Go to www. ontaponline.com for more information.

Office

n Music

74

78

Eels’ Mark Oliver Everett

Electro-Pop Duo Sylvan Esso

Returns from Hiatus

Bring Magentic Pop to The Anthem

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Local Band Broke Royals.. .................... 72 Eels’ Return from Hiatus ..................... 74 Electro-Pop Duo Sylvan Esso.. ............ 78 Music Picks............................................. 80

25 Dove St. Alexandria, VA 22314 Tel: 703-465-0500 Fax: 703-465-0400 www.ontaponline.com Calendar Submissions www.ontaponline.com/calendar Due by 15th of the month for print issue

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By Trent Johnson

THROUGH SATURDAY, JUNE 9 An Iliad The Iliad is one of Homer’s great tales, culminating in a heartbreaking battle between Prince Hector of Troy and Brad Pi...I mean Achilles, one of the greatest warriors in fictional history (any time your name becomes nomenclature for a pesky body part, you know you’re a legend). Conor Bagley’s version at Atlas Arts is a modern retelling, settling on a more personal story between the two powerful mortals.

While the description throws a ton of adjectives to focus on, the one highlighted heavily is that of rage and why the intoxicating feeling is so hard to control but easy to unleash. Tickets are $15-$25. Atlas Performing Arts Center’s Lab 1: 1333 H St. NE, DC; www.atlasarts.org

THROUGH SATURDAY, JUNE 16 Laugh Index Theatre’s Annual Comedy Festival This festival is a smorgasbord of comedy, featuring a variety of acts from all over the country.

Over the course of a few weeks, and at several venues, there will be improv teams, sketch teams, musical comedy, stand-up (duh) and podcasts all dedicated to making you laugh. So no matter what tickles your fancy, your funny bone will be scratched (no not the area on your arm, don’t be weird). Performances at various locations. Ticket prices vary. LIT Annual Comedy Festival: Various locations around Washington, DC; www.laughindextheatre.com

The Remains Yes, The Remains does sound like the title of a straight-to-video knockoff of HBO’s The Leftovers (fun fact: Nick Cage actually stars in this very thing, a little remake titled Left Behind), but Studio Theatre’s play is anything but. Instead of a story centered around people vanishing into thin air (*snap*), this story focuses on the 10-year marriage of Kevin and Theo, who host a dinner party to celebrate their newly renovated condo. As families tend to upon gathering together for an occasion, philosophy and truth come to the forefront, pulling the curtain on their thought-to-be perfect union. Learn more about the production in Keith Loria’s story on page 6. Tickets start at $20.

Studio Theatre: 1501 14th St. NW, DC; www.studiotheatre.org

THROUGH SUNDAY, JULY 1 The Tempest A classic comedy by the classic hitmaker William Shakespeare, The Tempest is a veteran of the theatre scene and one which commands a certain respect. I have little doubt the folks at Avant Bard will deliver the show with their own offbeat twist. The story is filled with love and magic and of course, riddled with conflict. It wouldn’t be a Shakespeare special if it didn’t also contain a smidge of tragedy as well. Tickets are $30-$35. The Gunston Arts Center: 2700 S. Lang St. Arlington, VA; www.wscavantbard.org

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 6 - SATURDAY, JUNE 23

THROUGH SUNDAY, JUNE 24 Botticelli in the Fire What do artists do when faced with a populist takeover of the societies their work reflects?

There’s no right or wrong answer, as those kinds of regimes often are accompanied by attempts to censor or deride anything seen as contentious. Does this sound relevant? Yeah, that’s what Woolly Mammoth’s Botticelli in the Fire wants you to take away, as it draws comparisons to the current political climate and that of the famed artist during the populist revolution in Lorenzo de’ Medici’s Florence. Faced with numerous choices throughout, Botticelli must make decisions with no easy answers. Tickets are $20-$51. Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company: 641 D St. NW, DC; www.woollymammoth.net

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Switch If you thought the most intriguing body-switching tales involved those of kids and their parents (as seen too many times in pop culture, so excuse me for not listing), you’re wrong. Switch takes the premise and flips it on its head, as the story involves a couple who wake up in one another’s bodies following sex. What follows is the two deciding to explore their boundaries with their genderfluid friend Lark. Written by Brett Abelman and directed by Megan Behm, this play depicts a world “where sex, gender and sexuality intertwine.” Tickets are $25. Trinidad Theatre at Logan Fringe Arts Space: 1358 Florida Ave. NE, DC; www.capitalfringe.org

TUESDAY, JUNE 19 - SUNDAY, JULY 22

Lerner & Loewe’s

Camelot Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations The Temptations are arguably one of the greatest musical acts of all time, so it’s nice to see their story get the recognition it deserves as Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations comes to the Kennedy Center this month. The performance is biographical in nature, following the five young men who would eventually emerge from Detroit, Michigan as The Temptations.

The play was penned by Dominique Morisseau and features hits like “My Girl,” “Just My Imagination” and “Papa Was a Rolling Stone.” Tickets start at $59. The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts: 2700 F St. NW, DC; www.kennedy-center.org

Alan Jay Lerner Music by Frederick Loewe Directed by Alan Paul Book and Lyrics by

Original production directed and staged by Moss Hart Based on The Once and Future King by T. H. White

SATURDAY, JUNE 23 - SUNDAY, JUNE 24

35 or Under?

Get $25 tickets and a FREE DRINK! RebollarDance Erica Rebollar returns to DC to celebrate the tenth anniversary of her works with a new piece titled Variations. According to Dance Place, this piece is a meditation on the choreographic method, or theme and variation. All that being said, this seems like a very meta dance piece, as the focus is about the construction of an actual dance choreography. Though art about art can sometimes be confusing for neophytes, this performance is likely to avoid the possible pitfalls and be enjoyable for all. Tickets are $15-$30. Dance Place: 3225 8th St. NE, DC; www.danceplace.org

Wednesday, June 13 at 7:30 p.m.

Friday, June 22 at 8 p.m.

ORDER TODAY! ShakespeareTheatre.org/Under35 | 202.547.1122 Wine sponsor:

Beer sponsor:

Patrons must be 21 years or older. Valid ID required. Some restrictions apply. Subject to availability and cannot be combined with other offers or previously purchased tickets.

Photo of Alexandra Silber and Ken Clark by Tony Powell.

www.ontaponline.com | JUNE 2018 | On Tap

5

Studio Theatre’s

The Remains World-Premiere Comedy Explores Gay Divorce

By Keith Loria

The Remains’ Maulik Pancholy and Glenn Fitzgerald

tories about failed relationships are nothing new in theatre, as many a play have tackled the subject – be it with humor or on a more serious, darker level.

But Studio Theatre is presenting a new work that puts a different spin on the subject, with Ken Urban’s world-premiere play The Remains, which explores a gay couple going through the process of a divorce.

The play follows Kevin and Theo, a Boston-based gay married couple, who 10 years after their historic coupling decide marriage isn’t for them and must reveal their truth to loved ones. Urban based the comedy loosely on events from his own life.

“I got divorced from my partner of 18 years in 2015,” the playwright says. “I filed the paperwork just about the same time that the federal same-sex marriage ban was removed, so it seemed like an interesting time to think about those two things together. It also got me thinking about what it means to be in a relationship, and what it means to be in love.”

Urban notes that those in the LGBTQ+ community are only a few years into the whole concept of being asked, “When are you two going to be married?” He’s acutely aware of that pressure and understands that with gay marriage sometimes comes gay divorce.

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On Tap | JUNE 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

Photo: Rachael Wilkinson

“Before marriage for gay men and women was an option, we had to define what we meant by being in a relationship,” he says. “When I first met my partner in 1996, I didn’t know any other gay couples and what it meant to be in a long-term gay relationship. With marriage, you can try and rearrange the definition, but more pressures suddenly come upon you.”

Actor Glenn Fitzgerald plays Theo, and stage and TV vet Maulik Pancholy (Weeds, 30 Rock) stars as Kevin. Urban wrote the part with him in mind and asked his friend to take on the role. The two had previously worked together on Urban’s The Happy Sad in 2009 and The Awake in 2013.

Before marriage for gay men and women was an option, we had to define what we meant by being in a relationship.

“He is an incredibly sensitive actor and someone who dives really deep into himself when he’s working on a part,” Urban says. “What I love about Maulik is you can give him all types of challenges offstage, and he always rises to them.”

For his part, Pancholy was excited about tacking dramatic terrain that hasn’t really been explored in theatre onstage before, especially being a gay man himself.

“What is fascinating about this is it’s one of the first gay-themed plays that I’ve read that isn’t about the fight for equality or the fight to be treated as an equal human being, and yet it is,” he says. “We are in a time period now where, thank God, we won a lot of those rights – though given the current temperament, things can feel a little tenuous at times – and there’s still a long way to go in the way LGBTQ+ people are perceived in our society.”

Furthermore, he was intrigued at how Kevin and Theo’s story impacted those around them – those who had seen them fight so hard to be treated as equals and were now watching it be torn apart.

Though it has nothing to do with his real life – Pancholy is happily married – he thinks it’s an important story to be told.

“In my own wedding, there was a sense of it being more special than a heterosexual wedding because with it comes all the history and legacy for the fight of equality, and a lot of hopes pinned on that and a lot of meaning attached to that kind of love.”

Pancholy says the play posits the question, “What does it mean when you fought so hard for the right to love, but then find you may not want to be with that person you fought to be with – not just for the couple, but those around them?”

Studio Theatre’s Artistic Director David Muse is directing the play and was brought to the project by Pancholy. The pair went to graduate school together at the Yale School of Drama.

“We’re friends and we last worked together about 16 years ago,” Muse says about Pancholy. “The chance to have an artistic reunion with him was a big reason why I wanted to do this. He acted in more plays that I directed [in school] than anyone else – something like five times!”

The director shares that the play also sits in Studio’s sweet spot in that it’s a realistic, living-room drama with funny, emotional things going on, and he likes the fact that it’s something of a “next generation” gay play.

“There are a series of plays with contemporary themes dealing with what I call ‘second-stage assimilation’ concerns: questions like gay parenthood and squaring the idea of monogamous marriage with a more liberated approach to sexuality that we tend to associate with gay culture,” he says. “Watching the gay play evolve on some level with less to struggle against really interests me.”

The Remains is at Studio Theatre through June 17. Tickets start at $20. For more information, visit www.studiotheatre.org.

Studio Theatre: 1501 14th St. NW, DC 202-332-3300; www.studiotheatre.org

Photos: Trent Johnson

Photo: Wilson Chin

Shakespeare Theatre Company hosted Young Prose Night for its production of Waiting for Godot, which included a post-show reception with a complimentary beer or glass of wine.

www.ontaponline.com | JUNE 2018 | On Tap

7

DC Celebrates

PRIDE Photo: Courtesy of SMYAL

By Keith Loria When one thinks of Pride in our area, visions of big celebrations with copious amounts of drinking and dancing often come to mind, but there’s much more to appreciating and championing this impactful time than big spectacles. In fact, many organizations use Pride for advocacy or to bring attention to important initiatives in a serious way.

Capital Pride weekend obviously gets a lot of the attention this time of year, and its collection of events and activities is bigger than ever, but there is a lot going on throughout the DC community that shouldn’t fall through the cracks.

Photo: Courtesy of SMYAL

EMPOWERING THE YOUTH Adelphie Johnson, program director at SMYAL (Supporting and Mentoring Youth Advocates and Leaders), says SMYAL youth intend to fully celebrate their various identities of being queer, black, young and amazing leaders in accordance with this year’s theme of “Elements of Us.” “We seek to empower our youth by letting them be the drivers of our involvement,” she says. “Pride is an opportunity to both remember the struggles that our community has faced and is still facing, as well as to celebrate our existence. That can be a very powerful moment for a young person who hasn’t always been told, ‘You’re loved,’ or ‘You can be proud of who you are, however you are.’”

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SMYAL youth will participate in some events, from speaking at Black Pride to handing out information at Trans Pride to walking in the Capital Pride parade. SMYAL is also hosting a youth dance following the parade to give young people a place to continue the party while DC’s adult population hangs out at house parties, bars and restaurants in the area.

“We’ve seen an evolution in how the community has increased their involvement of youth-specific spaces or youth-friendly spaces,” Johnson says. “Young people don’t always have the same availability or resources as adults, so ensuring we intentionally make space for our young leaders in a way that works for them is important.”

Thankfully, she adds, Pride is so openly celebrated across the city in all different communities that it shows our youth that there are places where they can be accepted as they grow into adulthood.

“Sometimes people forget that the first Pride marches were protest marches, and that advocacy is built into Pride from the ground up,” Johnson says. “One specific thing we’re doing this year is partnering with DC Black Pride to cohost a Youth Town Hall led by a group of youth panelists, and the topics of discussion will center around healthy relationships.”

“2018 HAS BEEN A YEAR WHEN A LOT OF MARGINALIZED GROUPS HAVE HAD THEIR VOICES AMPLIFIED AND CELEBRATED.”

PRIDE AT THE WHARF District Wharf is partnering with LGBT newspaper Washington Blade on the first annual Pride on the Pier, which will have the District Pier open to all ages and a dedicated Transit Pier as its “Family Pier” with activities for all ages.

“Our goal is to make a fun event that the whole community will enjoy,” says Stephen Rutgers, director of sales and marketing for Washington Blade. “Pride allows us to showcase the community to anyone and everyone, and hopefully bring awareness to the important issues and struggles LGBTQ+ people face every day.”

Rutgers feels it’s important to make sure everyone in the community feels welcome, so creating new community events like Pride on the Pier provides an opportunity to do that.

“Pride is a time to celebrate the community, no matter who you are or how you identify. Being LGBTQ+ doesn’t mean that everyone likes the same things or has gone through the same struggles. We have to remember that we are all a family and need to make sure anyone and everyone feels welcome. If just one person feels left out, then we are failing ourselves.”

Photo: Courtesy of DC Brau

A SHARP DESIGN Washington Blade also has a partnership with DC Brau on Pride Pils cans, which raised more than $7,000 last year for SMYAL and the Blade Foundation.

“While Pride is used to celebrate ourselves, it is also a time to give back to the community as well,” Rutgers says. “This year, we are producing over 28,000 cans of the Pride Pils that was designed and voted upon by the community.”

Last year, the design was of a unicorn holding the rainbow flag, but this year, Rutgers notes the design really represents everyone in the community. DC-based artist Alden Leonard chose to show the juxtaposition of Pride – both a celebration and an act of protest – with a colorful design featuring three figures in defiant poses with their eyes fixed on symbols of tradition and order.

“The LGBTQ+ community in DC includes people of all shapes, sizes and backgrounds, and this year’s design by Alden Leonard really shows our diversity,” he says. “All three individuals on the can could identify as anyone in the LGBTQ+ community, and really gives everyone their own voice in how they see themselves.”

The design will appear on more than 28,000 cans of DC Brau’s flagship pilsner this summer in the District and will officially launch at a Yappy Hour at Town on Wednesday, June 6 at 6 p.m.

“2018 has been a year when a lot of marginalized groups have had their voices amplified and celebrated,” says Brandon Skall, CEO and cofounder of DC Brau. “We loved that Alden’s Pride Pils design on first

“WE HAVE TO REMEMBER THAT WE ARE ALL A FAMILY AND NEED TO MAKE SURE ANYONE AND EVERYONE FEELS WELCOME. IF JUST ONE PERSON FEELS LEFT OUT, THEN WE ARE FAILING OURSELVES.” glance was summery and poppy, but on closer inspection, carried such a subtle but profound message of diversity and inclusiveness.”

DC Brau is also participating in the Pride Run on Friday, June 8, and Skall says there is “always a fun group that walks in the Pride Parade, which really is the highlight of the weekend for us.”

EVERYONE GETS INVOLVED Outside events are coming into the city more and more and really making DC Pride an event for all, so no one feels left out. The leather community kicked off its DC Leather Pride celebration earlier in May, which included a fundraiser at Town to raise money for the LGBT Fallen Heroes Fund, an expo at the DC Eagle (followed by a rubber social and dance party) and a brunch fundraiser on the last day.

“There’s been an embrace of the different aspects of being LGBT,” says Miguel Ayala, cofounder of DC Leather Pride. “We see who people are and who we are as a community. Younger people are coming out, trans folk are more visible now, and there’s been an embrace of different styles and different aspects within our community.”

Trans Pride and Black Pride both had speakers and panels throughout the month of May, offering people a chance to talk and help people learn from past experiences. Latino GLBT History Project hosts DC Latinx Pride annually, now in its 12th year representing the Latinx LGBTQ+ community. This year’s theme is Belleza Latinx, representing the beauty of the community in all colors, shapes, and range of languages and genders.

“As the hosts of annual festivities, we constantly reach out to the community to see what their needs are,” says Nancy Cañas, president of the Latino GLBT History Project-DC Latinx Pride. “For example, this year at La Platica, we are discussing issues pertaining to older LGBTQ+ folk. Our panel focuses on economic resilience, how this group and us as well – as we become older – how we will continue to support ourselves and our family.”

Then there’s the Department of Justice Pride and FBI Pride joining forces to march under a joint banner in the Capital Pride Parade. The DOJ also presents its annual award during Pride to the person who has made outstanding contributions in the LGBTQ+ community.

“No matter your age or how you identify, it is great to see events that everyone can enjoy,” Skall says. “Giving people options of what they can do really helps DC celebrate in new and exciting ways.”

Learn more about Pride events and partnerships, as well as participating LGBTQ+ organizations, below.

Capital Pride: www.capitalpride.org DC Brau: www.dcbrau.com Latino GLBT History Project: www.latinoglbthistory.org Pride on the Pier: www.prideonthepierdc.com SMYAL: www.smyal.org Washington Blade: www.washingtonblade.com

www.ontaponline.com | JUNE 2018 | ON TAP

9

A Day in the

Life

CAPITAL PRIDE BOARD MEMBER

MICHELE IRIMIA-BERNABE Photo: www.capitalpride.org

E

By Trent Johnson arlier this year, the Capital Pride Alliance underwent some staff changes at the decision-making level, hoping to bring in fresh ideas to provide outreach and support for the LGBTQ+ community. Board member Michele IrimiaBernabe was one of the talented folks brought in to provide a fresh perspective. For the last 20 years, Irimia-Bernabe

On Tap: When did you know you wanted to be involved in the Pride movement?

Did you have a moment that called you to action?

Michele Irimia-Bernabe: I knew I wanted to be involved in the Pride movement the moment I came out. I received backlash from my family as soon as I told them I was gay. I felt that I needed to be a voice for those who did not have one. I did not want anyone to feel rejected or thought of as less. I wanted other LGBTQ+ individuals to know that they had a place in society and that they could thrive.

OT: How much has the movement changed since you’ve been involved?

MIB: Since I have been in the movement, it has grown exponentially. I started out working with NYC Pride in 1999, and just recently joined Capital Pride’s Board of

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had been an integral part of nonprofit Heritage of Pride, also known as NYC Pride, in the Big Apple. Now in the nation’s capital as a DCPS (District of Columbia Public Schools) educator, she’s prepping for her first Capital Pride Parade. We spoke to her about adjusting to life in the District, her history with the Pride movement and how vital these events can be for the LGBTQ+ community.

Directors. As laws have changed against sodomy and marriage equality, our relationships have become validated. We are visible. That visibility has created a huge change in public perception. That’s not saying that we still don’t have huge strides to make. We continue to fight for full equality for all LGBTQ+ people.

OT: Tell me about some of the things you focus on within the Capital Pride Alliance.

What has it been like as a board member these past few months?

MIB: I work with an amazing group of people that dedicate their time and energy to the community. I have focused on being present at most events and representing a Latina voice. I volunteered for Capital Trans Pride and it was such a wonderful experience. I plan on being at most of our events during Pride Week.

OT: How integral do you think these tentpole events like the Pride Parade are to spurring awareness?

MIB: Everyone remembers their first Pride. You feel empowered because you are watching people like you marching with organizations, businesses, schools, politicians, churches, sports teams and bars.

It is an overwhelming experience. It makes you realize that you are not alone. Pride events provide that experience for so many.

Not everyone lives in a welcoming city [or] safe space. For one day a year, everyone in the community has a safe space to celebrate, protest and most importantly, be who they are.

OT: What’s different this year? What ideas did you bring with you from NYC? MIB: Every year is different. Planning for our diverse community is always fun as ideas

Photo: Courtesy of Michele Irimia-Bernabe

pour out for new safe spaces for everyone. What I bring from New York City to DC is the experience of managing and directing largescale events. I worked in almost every capacity in NYC and helped the organization grow to provide safe spaces for the LGBTQ+ community.

I hope to bring that same spirit and knowledge to the Capital Pride Alliance.

OT: What has life in DC been like so far?

MIB: Life has been different in DC. I went from a huge, fast-paced city to a city that is much smaller and a bit slower. I feel that my wife and I have a great work-life balance here. I find that DC is a wonderful place to live, and I have met some really smart, beautiful people.

OT: What activities do you enjoy in the District?

MIB: My favorite things to do in the city are to walk [and] run in the evenings, enjoy time with my friends, and be present for my students every day. I enjoy all the museums and art that surround the city. I love spending time with my wife, Maryrose, enjoying some of the great restaurants in DC. I also enjoy getting to know different parts of the city and the diversity within our nation.

For more information about the Capital Pride Alliance or the Pride 2018 Parade, visit www.capitalpride.org.

Photos: Devin Overbey

OT: Do you have any favorite neighborhoods in the city?

MIB: My favorite part of the city is Adams Morgan/Columbia Heights because I can get Spanish food there, and I do miss my mom’s cooking.

The first-ever Rosslyn Reads! Spring Book Festival benefited nonprofit Turning the Page and included author readings, live music, food trucks and a beer garden, all on Central Place Plaza.

www.ontaponline.com | JUNE 2018 | On Tap

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DC

By Aja Neal

PRIDE Edition

2

1.

An estimated 400,000 people attended Capital Pride in 2017. The first (official) Pride celebration in 1975 only had around 2,000 people in attendance.

2.

Approximately 161 cities around the world besides DC will host their own Pride celebrations this month.

3.

DC has the highest concentration (8.6 percent) of people who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ spectrum, more than any state in the country.

4.

The District’s first Pride parade was held in 1981.

5.

Marches for LGBTQ+ rights became known as Pride parades or festivals sometime in the mid-1970s, taking the name from a gay rights advocacy organization called Personal Rights in Defense and Education (PRIDE).

6.

A U.S. Armed Forces color guard marched alongside rainbow flags in the Capital Pride Parade in 2014, marking the first year since the repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell in 2011 where members of the color guard were able to participate in Pride proceedings nationwide.

7.

DC’s first Trans Pride celebration occurred in 2007, 32 years into the legacy of Capital Pride.

8.

The first Pride celebration recognized by the DC Council was held in 1975 by Deacon Maccubbin, the owner of Lambda Rising, DC’s first gay bookstore specifically catering to the needs of the gay community.

9.

DC Black Pride has staged its own program of events since 1991, and Youth Pride was founded in 1997.

Latino Pride started in 2007 along with Trans Pride, which is now included as another facet of Capital Pride itself.

10. The rainbow flag flown during Capital Pride was created by Gilbert Baker, a former Vietnam War ON TAP | JUNE 2018 | www.ontaponline.com veteran.

Facts courtesy of the following articles: #1: www.washingtonpost.com, www.metroweekly.com #2: www.gaypridecalendar.com #3: http://news.gallup.com/poll/203513/vermont-leads-states-lgbt-identification.aspx #4, 8: https://web.archive.org/web/20140613024058/http://www.rainbowhistory.org/html/capitalpride.html #5, 6: www.washingtonpost.com #7: www.metroweekly.com/2007/05/a-pride-trans-formation/ #9: www.washingtoncitypaper.com #10: www.differio.com/thedifferent/lgbt-pride-parade

All Drink, Dine, Do event listings are provided by the venues hosting them.

PrideCapital in Pride DC MONDAY, JUNE 4

THURSDAY, JUNE 7

Capital Pride Annual Women’s Spoken Word Open Mic Join Busboys and Poets and Capital Pride for the annual Women’s Spoken Word pride event. Enjoy the live DJ music of DJ Diyanna Monet, special performances by DC’s very own CheerDC Squad and Pretty Boi Drag performer Majik Dyke, plus two hours of mic open to women-identified folks of all backgrounds to share their story through words or music. The full food and drink menu will be available throughout the event, including Pride-themed drink specials. 7:30-10 p.m. Tickets $10. Busboys and Poets: 1025 5th St. NW, DC; www.busboysandpoets.com

Capital Pride Heroes Gala Capital Pride’s Heroes Gala honors outstanding individuals, leaders and activists who have furthered the causes important to the LGBTQ+ community in the national capital region and beyond. The Heroes Gala offers an elegant evening on the rooftop, poolside, with stunning views. You’ll enjoy great entertainment, an open bar, and the best food-tasting stations in town, including the amazing Mason Dixie Biscuit Co. and more. 7-10 p.m. Tickets $65.

Capital Pride Heroes Gala: 880 P St. NW, DC; www.capitalpride.org

Photos: Michelle Goldchain

For more information, go to www.capitalpride.org.

Guests at Nat Geo Nights: The Science of Genius enjoyed fare, beer and wine while explorers spoke about their innovative work, including using artificial intelligence to revolutionize health care.

www.ontaponline.com | JUNE 2018 | On Tap

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FRIDAY, JUNE 8 BYT Pride Opening Party Earth, Wind, Glitter & Fire Looking to kick off Pride month the best way possible? Look no further than the annual BYT Pride Opening Party.

Performances from DJ Alex Lo, Naomi Smalls of RuPaul’s Drag Race, Allie X and many more. There’s no dress code, but the themes of the night are the Elements, Captain Planet, and the Periodic Table.

9 p.m. - 3:30 a.m. Tickets $20$30. Echostage: 2135 Queens Chapel Rd. NE, DC; www.brightestyoungthings.com

NAT GEO NIGHTS Where social meets smart EVERY THIRD THURSDAY

|

5:30–8 PM

PHOTO: TAYLOR MICKAL

SATURDAY, JUNE 9

Join us for special monthly happy hours with stories from National Geographic Explorers, fun interactive activities, lively music, food, and drink specials at our cash bar.

THURSDAY, JUNE 21

NAT GEO NIGHTS: LOST CITIES Learn how archaeologist Mark Horton and journalist Andrew Lawler set out to discover what happened to the lost colonists of Roanoke, the first English settlement in the New World, and how explorer Tom Garrison used cutting-edge technology to navigate the lush jungles of Central America to locate a hidden Maya metropolis.

V I S I T N AT G E O . O R G / N AT G E O N I G H T S

Capital Pride Brunch Enjoy delicious gourmet brunch tasting stations with complimentary mimosas and bellinis. Attendees will dine and hobnob with our parade marshals, pride honorees, and other special guests. 11:30 a.m. 2:30 p.m. Attendees must be 21plus. Human Rights Campaign: 1640 Rhode Island Ave. NW, DC; www.capitalpride.org Capital Pride Parade Join the LGBTQ+ community in the historic Dupont and Logan Circle neighborhoods to experience the Pride 2018 Parade in the nation’s capital.

More than 200 contingents consisting of floats, vehicles, marchers and entertainment will traverse the 1.5 mile route in support of our community.

There will be a Block Party occurring adjacent to the Parade route with a beverage garden and entertainment.

Parade lasts from 4:30-7:30 p.m.

Please refer to the website for more information. Capital Pride Parade: Parade begins at 22nd and P Streets in NW, DC; www.capitalpride.org

BL

17TH & M STREETS NW

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FARRAGUT NORTH & WEST

Pride Events SATURDAY, JUNE 2

SUNDAY, JUNE 10 Capital Pride Concert The Capital Pride Concert is the largest annual event in the national capital region attended by more than 300,000

Dyke Dives of DC: Historical Bike Tour Kick off Pride season by connecting with the city’s

On Tap | JUNE 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

DC S18 NGN On Tap June Print Ad_V2.indd 1

Capital Pride Festival Join the LGBTQ+ community on historic Pennsylvania Avenue, for the Pride 2018 Festival in the Nation’s Capital, presented by Live! Casino & Hotel. Enjoy a full day of entertainment, music, food, drink, education and celebration. The Pride Festival includes three stages of national and local talent, and will host 300 exhibitors, including local community groups and businesses, food vendors and more. The event is free, but donations are encouraged to support the Capital Pride Alliance and LGBTQ+ partner organizations. 12-10 p.m.

Capital Pride Festival: Pennsylvania Avenue and 3rd7th Streets in NW, DC; www.capitalpride.org

DC: Pride Womxn’s Kickoff Celebration 2018 Come celebrate with for this annual Pride Womxn’s Kickoff Celebration. Help honor the lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and queer womxn of Greater Washington. This celebration will be a night of fun, friendship and dancing. 7-11 p.m. Tickets $10-$30, see website for sponsor pricing. Big Chief: 2002 Fenwick St. NE, DC; www.whitman-walker.org

NAT GEO NIGHTS EVENT PARTNERS

WASHINGTON, DC

people. You can experience entertainment from three stages while sipping on a cocktail and other refreshing beverages, and munching on food at the two food courts. Headliners this year include MAX, Troye Sivan and Alessia Cara. 12-10 p.m. Tickets start $35-$150. Capital Pride Concert: Pennsylvania Avenue and 3rd Street in NW, DC; www.capitalpride.org

5/31/18 4:03 PM

vibrant queer history in this two-hour long bike tour exploring some of the lesser known hangs, moderated by DC Dykaries’ Ty Kuta. Tour will end at a secret location for a #dykedive happy hour. Tour starts by the McPherson Square metro Bring your own wheels or rent with Citi Bike. 1-3 p.m.

Free to attend, but if you’d like to support the important work of DC Dykaries there will be opportunities to donate after the tour. Dyke Dives of DC Starting Point: 1400 I St. NW, DC; www.taggmagazine.com

SATURDAY, JUNE 2 SUNDAY, JUNE 3 Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington presents: Trans America Join the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington for a gorgeous, powerful and uplifting celebration of the transgender, non-binary and genderqueer communities. With dancers,

costumes, vocal ensembles, the GenOUT Chorus, videos and music from Broadway and pop music, they will be joined by several special guests, including transgender soprano Breanna Sinclairé. Prior to the Saturday performance, there will be a panel discussion led by Bishop Gene Robinson. The Saturday performance starts at 8 p.m., Sunday at 3 p.m.Tickets $25-$65.

Lincoln Theatre: 1215 U St. NW, DC; www.gmcw.org

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 6

TUESDAY, JUNE 5

Call Me By Your Name Author André Aciman Hosted by the Library of Congress, join best-selling author André Aciman as he discusses his critically acclaimed novel, Call Me By Your Name.

Set in Italy during the 1980s, the novel and film follow the coming-of-age love story of 17-year-old Elio and 24-yearold graduate student Oliver.

Aciman will discuss the success of the book and the movie,

Washington Nationals Night OUT Join LGBTQ+ fans from around the DC area to support the Nationals as the team takes on the Tampa Bay Rays. All tickets purchase for Night OUT include a donation to Team DC. Game begins at 7:05 p.m. Tickets $15-50. Nationals Park: 1500 S Capitol St. SE, DC. www.mlb.com/nationals/ballpark

The Big, Queer Jewish Pride Happy Hour Join DC Brau Brewing Company and The Washington Blade for the launch of their new #PridePils beer can. For more information about the #PridePils can visit www.PridePils.com.

Please note that the Town Patio only accepts cash. 6-9 p.m. Free to attend. Town Danceboutique: 2009 8th St. NW, DC; www.washingtonblade.com

the possibility of a sequel and reaction from readers. A book signing will follow. 7-8:30 p.m.

Free to attend. Library of Congress: 10 First St. SE, DC; www.loc.gov

FRIDAY, JUNE 8 Booty Rex Pride Party The annual and “quite legendary” Booty Rex brings together the Anthology of Booty DJ crew, the She Rex DJs, and more. Now in its 10th year, this is a can’t miss celebration.

Get ready for the Officially Unofficial Official Queer Pride Party of the summer. Starts at 9 p.m. Tickets $15. Rock & Roll Hotel: 1353 H St. NE, DC; www.rockandrollhoteldc.com

SATURDAY JUNE 9 MIXTAPE Pride Party w/ DJs Matt Bailer, Keenan Orr, Tezrah A dance party for the entire LGBTQ+ community. DJs Matt

www.ontaponline.com | JUNE 2018 | On Tap

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Bailer, Keenan Orr and Tezrah will keep you dancing all night with an eclectic mix of house, indie dance, electro pop, throwbacks and more. MIXTAPE is an inclusive space. Please respect everyone who attends and the venue. Doors open 10 p.m. Tickets $15. 9:30 Club: 815 V St. NW, DC; www.930.com Urbana “Pride + Shine” Brunch Urbana is hosting its annual “Pride + Shine” party with brunch, libations, a fierce dance party with DJ Trayze, front-row parade seating and special guest appearance by Mike HotPence. Enjoy front-row viewing of the Capital Pride Parade, as the restaurant is located right at the start of the route. They will be serving brunch from 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m, but the party goes on until 6 p.m. Tickets $50.

Urbana: 2121 P St. NW, DC; www.urbanadc.com

Photos: Beauty by Photography

SATURDAY, JUNE 9

Yards Park in Capitol Riverfront had its first Friday night concert with R&B group Pebble to Pearl. Concertgoers enjoyed ice-cold Corona and wine onsite at the outdoor tented bar.

16

On Tap | JUNE 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

DC: Pride on the Pier at the Wharf The Washington Blade in partnership with LURe DC and The Wharf are excited to announce the inaugural Pride on the Pier celebration during DC Pride. Pride on the Pier extends the city’s annual celebration of LGBTQ+ visibility to the bustling Southwest waterfront, with an exciting array of activities and entertainment. The Dockmasters Building will be home to a VIP experience with complimentary alcoholic drinks and food during the duration of the event. 12-3 p.m. VIP tickets $75. District Pier at The Wharf: 101 District Sq. SW, DC; www.prideonthepierdc.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 14 LGBTQ Latinx Arts Activism: Creating Change and Sustaining Community Join the Smithsonian Latino Center for a special Pride Month program exploring the contributions of LGBTQ+ Latinxs to community development, social justice and self-determination. Moderated by scholar and curator Gina V. Díaz, this onstage conversation will feature the perspectives of prominent members of the Latinx LGBTQ+ community. 7-8:30 p.m.

Free to attend. Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden: Independence Avenue and 7th Street in NW, DC; www.latino.si.edu

SUNDAY, JUNE 20 Smut Slam DC: Queer Pride Not familiar with Smut Slam?

It’s a storytelling open mic where audience members sign up for five minute slots to tell their best real-life, first-person, consensual sex stories. It’s queer-friendly, kink-friendly, lifestyle-friendly, body-positive, sex-positive, and wildly fun.

No costumes, no notes, no gimmicks, just straight-up raw truth. See website for rules and more information. 7-11 p.m.

Tickets $10. Ten Tigers Parlour: 3813 Georgia Ave. NW, DC; www.dc.smutslam.com

SUNDAY, JUNE 24 Ladies Tea Dance at Dodge City Come celebrate the dawn of summer with your favorite girls, boys, friends, and neighbors.

Dodge City will show off the finest warm weather wear on the back deck, and dance until the floor shakes. There will be drinks from the fabulous Dodge City bar crew and killer tunes served with care by Jacq Jill, Vanniety Kills, and Wolfblister.

3-8 p.m. Free to attend. Dodge City DC: 917 U St. NW, DC; www.dodgecitydc.com

2018celebratefairfax__8.25x10.75_4color_onTAP_rev.pdf

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Tickets $75. Shopkeepers: 1231 Florida Ave. NE, DC; www. shopkeepersgallery.com

TUESDAY, JUNE 5 FRIDAY, JUNE 1 SUNDAY, JUNE 3

SOMMERBRAU Wednesday, June 27th | 5:30PM Join us at the Navy Yard location as we tap our Sommer-Brau! A light, refreshing Kolsch-Style German Ale with floral hop flavor and a crisp finish.

Patio Now Open!

Navy Yard

100 M Street SE | Washington, DC | 202.484.2739

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On Tap | JUNE 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

Capital Jazz Fest Each year in early June, tens of thousands of music lovers from throughout the country flock to the suburbs of DC to attend this multi-day, multi-stage outdoor music festival. In between musical sets, enjoy fine art and crafts at the Festival Marketplace, culinary treats at the food court, plus artist workshops and meet & greets. And after the show, check out the late night after-parties.

Starts at 10 a.m. $69.50.

Merriweather Post Pavilion: 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy.

Columbia, MD; www.capitaljazz.com

MONDAY, JUNE 4 National Cheese Day Wheel and Wine Pairings To celebrate National Cheese Day, ENO Wine Bar paired some of its most popular cheese wheels with local, regional and international wines by the glass for an exquisite tasting experience. Wines are available by the glass or in a flight of three for $22. Cheeses are available for $5 per selection, or as a selection of three for $14.

5-7 p.m. ENO Wine Bar: 2810 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, DC; www.washington.org Plate Date LA Plate Date LA comes to DC to bring you a five course Korean style pop-up dinner.

White and red wine will be served with the meal, but feel free to bring anything of your choice. There is always room for more alcohol. Street parking

Taste of Adams Morgan Stroll, sip and sample your way through one of DC’s most vibrant neighborhoods, benefiting Mary’s Center. Bring your appetites because dozens of DC’s best restaurants are opening their doors and serving samples of their chef’s signature dishes. And it’s all for a good cause. 5-9 p.m. Tickets $35$75. Taste of Adams Morgan: Adams Morgan, NW, DC; www.washington.org

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 6 Cheese Club by Cheese Monster Do you love cheese? Like really, really love cheese? Give in to your cheesy desires and join Cheese Club by Cheesemonster.

At each event, they’ll be highlighting a different cheese and celebrating its awesomeness. You’ll nosh, drink and learn. Spring is full of things in bloom - everything from trees to flowers and bushes. So why not celebrate the full bloom of late spring with a bloomy cheese? 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tickets $40-$50. Lost & Found DC: 1240 9th St. NW, DC; www.cheesemonsterdc.com Dine-N-Dash with Chef José Andrés Leave your wallet at home and dine in 30 top DC restaurants in one night. We shut down some of DC’s best restaurants for you to enjoy the chef’s favorite dishes and drinks. Eat and drink at your starting restaurant and choose your next stop. It’s up to you. 6-10 p.m. General admission is $150. Dine-NDash: Penn Quarter and 14th St. NW, DC; www.dinendash.info

2-DAYS OF PREMIER CYCLING | JUNE 9-10

JOIN SUN

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Open to cAyY’S CHALLENGE clists of a ll abilitiesRIDE

PROUDLY BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE BOEING COMPANY

SATURDAY | CLARENDON PRO-AMATEUR RACES / KIDS RACES A tradition since 1998, boasts the Washington, DC region’s premier Amateur and Professional bike races.

SUNDAY | CRYSTAL CITY

RACES BOTH DAYS. FREE KIDS Register online or same day.

REGISTER ONLINE CyclingClassic.org

PRO-AMATEUR RACES / CHALLENGE RIDE / KIDS RACES Starting in 2008, the Challenge Ride has become the area’s largest non-competitive, participatory ride. Closed course for the Challenge Ride.

NEW THIS YEAR!

$5 OFF Challenge Ride Registration

USE CODE: ONTAP

Options to Support an Official Beneficiary with your Challenge Ride.

No Federal endorsement intended or implied.

MAGAZINE

WEDNESDAYS, JUNE 6, 13, 20, 27

EVERY TUESDAY EVERY THURSDAY 8:00PM AT TAPP’D BETHESDA

8:30PM AT TAPP’D BETHESDA

Enjoy ALL DAY/NIGHT

Play along & enjoy 22oz Drafts for the price of a pint!

(4915 St Elmo Ave)

HAPPY HOUR!

(4915 St Elmo Ave)

Wednesdays at The Wharf Bring your friends and family to The Wharf each Wednesday evening this summer to listen to live music on Transit Pier. Throughout the month, you’ll enjoy amazing rock tunes local bands. Food and drinks are available from Cantina Bambina; must be at least 21 years of age to purchase or consume alcohol.

The concert is 6-8 p.m. Free to attend. Transit Pier at The Wharf: 960 Wharf St. SW, DC; www.ontaponline.com/event

Free to Play & Lots of Prizes!

BACKYARD BBQ

IS BACK! BEER COCKTAILS BBQ LAWN GAMES LIVE MUSIC AND MORE!

ing Museum’s Held at the National Build y - Friday evening west lawn every Wednesda Sunday! and all day on Saturday -

401 F Street NW | www.hillcountry.com 20

On Tap | JUNE 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 7 VY/Reston Heights Grand Opening Enjoy complimentary food and drinks from some of Reston’s finest restaurants, musical entertainment and take a tour of some of the luxurious model apartment tours. 7-9 p.m. Free, but must RSVP. VY/Reston Heights: 11830 Sunrise Valley Dr. Reston, VA; www.vyrestonheightsrsvp.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 7 Taste of North Capitol North Capitol Main Street is excited to present the 2nd annual Taste of North Capitol, celebrating their beautiful and diverse community. The event will highlight some of the cuisines, services and businesses that make the neighborhood unique. The

event will feature live music and entertainment, specialty gifts and raffles, and food and drinks from your favorite North Cap neighborhood spots. 7-10 p.m.

Tickets $75-$100. NPR Atrium: 1111 North Capitol St. NE, DC; www.northcapitoldc.com/tasteof-north-capitol

THURSDAY, JUNE 7 JUNE 11 Capital Congress Capital Congress is the largest Salsa Festival in the DC area. Since 2005, thousands have come to DC to dance Salsa and other Latin styles in this family-friendly environment.

Instructors from around the world teach daily dance workshops to all levels, and Brooklyn’s top salsa band Los Hacheros performs live on Saturday night. All ages welcome. Various times.

Tickets $110-$350. The Westin: 400 Courthouse Sq. Alexandria, VA; www.capitalcongress.com

THURSDAYS, JUNE 7, 14, 21, 28 Rosslyn Rocks! Concerts Bring your friends and head to Central Place Plaza on Thursdays in June to listen to live music. Each week will bring a new cover band.

Enjoy the concerts while sipping on a glass of wine or having a beer in downtown Rosslyn’s outdoor space.

Must be 21+. 6-8 p.m. Free to attend. Central Place Plaza: 1800 N. Lynn St. Arlington, VA; www.ontaponline.com/ events

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Jarreau Williams Xperience Sol Roots Of Tomorrow Cecily Black Masala All the Best Kids Oh He Dead FeelFree The JoGo Project The Ron Holloway Band Justin Trawick and The Common Good Deacon Izzy and The Congregation La Unica Rain Date

FOOD TRUCKS, GAMES & MORE! Bring your lawn chair and see you there!

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Drink responsibly. Corona LightÂŽ Beer. Imported by Crown Imports, Chicago, IL

CELEBRATE THE

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SILENT DISCO GLOW PARTY

&

June 21, 2018 | 7 to 10 PM Transit Pier at The Wharf

THREE CHANNEL SILENT DISCO CORONA LIGHT ON SPECIAL GIVEAWAYS & MORE

Free to Attend!

Visit www.ontaponline.com for details must be 21+ to participate

CA N

FRIDAY, JUNE 8

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*Taste Well

*Live Well

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RESTON TOWN CENTER FRI JUNE 15: 3pm-11pm * SAT JUNE 16: 12pm-11pm

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BANDS + DJs Voted “Best Food Festival” in Northern Virginia By Virginia Living Magazine!

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ON TAP | JUNE 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

/restonchamber

Dancing Under the Stars Rooftop Party/Bachata Brunch/DC Zouk Festival Bachata Brunch along with DC Zouk Festival invite you to come out for their first event of summer 2018 at the Newly Renovated Premier Liaison’s Hotel DC Rooftop Pool. The 7,000 square foot Rooftop Pool and Bar at the Liaison is the largest in the city and features breathtaking views of Capitol Hill and amazing views of the sunset over the city. Due to limited space, only advance tickets will be sold. 5-11 p.m.

Tickets $15-$20. Liaison Hotel: 415 New Jersey Ave. NW, DC; www.bachatabrunch.com Nats Night Out Come out for pregame happy hour drink specials at Due South where you will pick up tickets from the DC Fray Event Squad and then enjoy the game with them in group seating at the Scoreboard Pavilion, a prime location close to the field and the beer. Tickets $25. Ticket pickup (and pregame happy hour) is at Due South from 5:30 p.m.- 6:30 p.m. All games start at 7:05 PM. Due South: 301 Water St. SE, DC and Nationals Park: 1500 S Capitol St. SE, DC; www. brightestyoungthings.com/ articles/events/nats-night-out-2 Rosé Romp Kick off spring social season in the nation’s capital, wearing your springtime best, and toast to the city’s iconic cherry blossom trees and The Willard’s illustrious history with Japan at this all-inclusive event.

Featuring the famous rosé wines of Chateau d’Esclans, elegant spring-inspired cuisine prepared

by The Willard’s critically acclaimed culinary team, and musical entertainment by the Bachelor Boys. 2-4 p.m. Tickets $89. Willard InterContinental: 1401 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, DC; www.washington. intercontinental.com

FRIDAY, JUNE 8 – SUNDAY, JUNE 10 Celebrate Fairfax Presented by Celebrate Fairfax Inc., the annual festival hosts tens of thousands of visitors during the three-day run. The 25acre site is magically filled with fascinating sights and sounds of more than 300 exhibitors, food vendors and interactive activities.

Celebrate Fairfax! showcases live concerts on eight stages.

Times vary per day. Fairfax County Government Center: 12000 Government Center Pkwy. Fairfax, VA; www.celebratefairfax.com

SATURDAY, JUNE 9 – SUNDAY, JUNE 10 The Armed Forces Cycling Classics Welcome to the Armed Forces Cycling Classic, proudly brought to you by the Boeing Company. The Armed Forces Cycling Classic is the region’s premier cycling event, with opportunities to participate for cyclists of all abilities. 7-10 a.m.

Registration is $70. The Armed Forces Cycling Classics: 2011 Crystal Dr. Arlington, VA; www.cyclingclassic.org

Photos: Mark Raker

Cinco de Mayo in DC kicked off at The Wharf with On Tap and Corona at the Seventh Annual Running of the Chihuahuas on District Pier.

The day included races, an 18-foot video wall, beer gardens, live music from Jeff From Accounting, pet-friendly exhibitors and an activity zone powered by D.C. United. All race proceeds benefited Rural Dog Rescue.

www.ontaponline.com | June 2018 | On Tap

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SATURDAY, JUNE 9 – FRIDAY, JUNE 15 Devils Backbone Thru Hike Devils Backbone Brewing Company is bringing the spirit of the Virginia Heartland to a city near you.

Join us for a week of awardwinning craft beer, delicious food, and an iconic event series you won’t want to miss. Be a part of the Devils Backbone Thru Hike in a city near you. Various times and locations. Devils Backbone Thru Hike: www.dbbrewing.com

SUNDAY, JUNE 10 Camera Workshop: DSLR + Mirrorless Basics This class is specifically designed for those who want to learn more about how their

own cameras work and those elusive manual exposure settings. Composing the frame beautifully, choosing the appropriate settings for your camera, and understanding how exposures are made are just the beginning. 1-3 p.m. Tickets $75.

Steadfast Supply: 300 Tingey St. SE, DC; www.steadfastsupply. com How to Throw a Tico Fiesta For this event, learn how to understand the flavors of Tico, and integrate them into your cooking at home. The instruction will be professional and chef-driven as you learn approaches, tips and tricks to master and show off to family and friends. Don’t just come for the education, as there will also be a ton of food to taste and beverages to drink. 3-6 p.m.

Tickets $50. Tico DC: 1926 14th St. NW, DC; www.ticodc.com

and culinary competition that brings together 16 of DC’s most talented chefs to vie for the title of Lamb Jam DC Champion, and celebrate the 80,000 family operated farms and ranches raising lamb across the nation.

3-6 p.m. Tickets $56.25-$125.

Dock5: 1309 5th St. NE, DC; www.unionmarketdc.com

TUESDAY. JUNE 12 Meet the Farmers: An Evening with The Common Market Come and meet the producers and stop by to try some tasty, products and get to know the local food-loving supporters across the city. Stick around for a cooking demonstration, tasting and presentation from the long-time partners at DC Central Kitchen. Free to attend.

3-5:30 p.m. Free to attend. The LINE Hotel: 1770 Euclid St. NW, DC; www.thelinehotel.com/dc

Lamb Jam DC Back and tastier than ever. Come eat, sip, play and explore at this epic gastronomic experience

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 13 – FRIDAY, JUNE 22 Shakespeare Theatre’s Camelot YPN Night With the legendary story of King Arthur’s Round Table, doomed romance and a stunning score (“If Ever I Would Leave You,” “I Loved You Once in Silence”), Camelot has won the hearts of generations of musical theatre lovers.

A ticket to Young Prose Night (YPN) includes a post-show reception with a complimentary beer or wine. June 13 at 7:30 p.m. and June 22 and 8 p.m. $25. Sidney Harman Hall: 610 F St. NW, DC; www. shakespearetheatre.org

TAKE METRO’S YELLOW OR GREEN LINE TO ARCHIVES-NAVY MEMORIAL PENN QUARTER STATION TO ENJOY THE BBQ BATTLE

don’t miss dc’s hottest event!

JUNE 23RD-24TH • PENNSYLVANIA AVE, NW (3RD-7TH STREETS)

30 BANDS ON 3 STAGES

Plain White T’s, Ocean Park Stand-off, SEE-I featuring members of Thievery Corporation, EU with Sugar Bear, Be’la Dona, I&I, BYB, and much more.

BUDWEISER BEVERAGE GARDENS • WINE & MICRO-BREW TASTING • FREE FOOD SAMPLES & MUCH MORE

TICKETS $15 | PURCHASE TICKETS AT: BBQINDC.COM

Event benefits USO Metro & Capital Area Food Bank

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THURSDAY, JUNE 14 Seeds + Sips: Cocktail Making with Fresh Herbs Come join Up Top Acres and get your hands dirty. You’ll plant three of your own herbs to take home, and one of the rooftop farmers will be there to give you tips to keep it alive and well. After, you’ll use the herbs you just planted as you mix a summer time cocktails, a rosemary and ginger gin spritzer. Stick around and enjoy your drinks as you take in the bountiful views of the DC skyline. Tickets include three small potted plants, two cocktails and light bites. 6-8 p.m.

Tickets $30. The Farm: 55 M St. SE, DC; www.uptopacres.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 14 – SUNDAY, JUNE 17 Opening Night DC at Harlem Fine Arts Show Join the Howard University Alumni Association for an

uplifting evening connecting the healing powers of art and medicine. This fine art show features work from more than 80 artists and galleries, spanning the entirety of the African Diaspora. There will be an art exhibition and sale.

Event includes VIP reception, live music and hors d’oeuvres.

5-11 p.m. Tickets $75. DC at Harlem Fine Arts Show: 101 Constitution Ave. NW, DC; www.hfas.org

and live music all day. Featuring 60-plus, beers, 40 bourbons and a lot of barbecue. 2-6 p.m.

Tickets $45-$120 (see website for designated driver pricing).

The Plateau: 300 Waterfront St. National Harbor, MD; www.beeranbourbon.com

SATURDAY, JUNE 16

FRIDAY, JUNE 15 Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival at National Harbor Get ready for two big days of beer sipping, bourbon tasting, music listening and barbecue eating. Your admission buys you a sampling glass, so you can enjoy an all you care to taste sampling of beer and bourbon.

Some of the best barbecue vendors will be onsite if you get hungry, all while enjoying seminars in the tasting theater

Frozen Treats Class and Tasting Party Explore how to make a variety of frozen treats with ingredients from local gardens and orchards, including vegan sorbets, savory frozen custards and refreshing popsicles that will be sure to cool your core temperature. 12 p.m. Tickets $5-$15. Cultivate the City: 910 Bladensburg Rd. NE, DC; www.cultivatethecity.com International Day of Yoga By the Embassy of India in partnership with friends of YogaShare, deepen, and celebrate the dimensions

FRIDAY, JUNE 15 – SATURDAY, JUNE 16 Taste of Reston Taste of Reston, produced by the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce, is the largest outdoor food festival in the area and has been voted “Northern Virginia’s Best Food Festival” by Virginia Living Magazine for the past six years. Join at Reston Town Center for two days of restaurants and community vendors, live entertainment on three stages and a Wine n’ Dine area. 3-11 p.m. on Friday, 12-11 p.m. on Saturday. Tickets $20. Reston Town Center: 11900 Market St. Reston, VA; www.restontaste.com

WE’LL SEE YOU

AT NATS PARK! JUNE 9 • 12:05 PM vs. SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS

ROSÉ ALL GAMEDAY SPECIAL TICKET REQUIRED

JUNE 22 • 7:05 PM vs. PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES

LADIES NIGHT

BOTTLE STOPPER GIVEAWAY

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of yoga, culminating in a celebration of the Fourth International Day of Yoga event organized by Embassy of India in partnership with friends of yoga. Starts at 8:30 a.m. Free to attend. The U.S. Capitol: East Capitol and First Streets in SE, DC; www.indianembassy.org/ dcyogaday/ Sample and Shop with Vegetable + Butcher Explore the world of Vegetable + Butcher, a DC based meal delivery service, with tastings and informatin about the company straight from the founding team. They offer meals friendly for vegans, raw foodies, and everyone in between - all anchored by the ethos of “eat your greens!” 1-3 p.m. Free to attend. Steadfast Supply: 300 Tingey St. SE, DC; www.steadfastsupplydc.com

Photos: Kayla Marsh

THURSDAY, JUNE 21

As the Washington Nationals warmed up to play the Philadelphia Phillies, fans enjoyed live music from Down Wilson and ice-cold beer on the Budweiser Terrace for the pregame show.

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On Tap | JUNE 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

Nat Geo Nights: Lost Cities Legend and mystery surround the world’s lost cities, but new breakthroughs are unearthing the facts behind the fiction. Learn how archaeologist and National Geographic Explorer Mark Horton and journalist Andrew Lawler set out to discover what happened to the lost colonists of Roanoke, the first English settlement in the New World, and how National Geographic Explorer Tom Garrison used cutting-edge technology to navigate the lush jungles of Central America to locate a hidden Maya metropolis.

5:30-8 p.m. Tickets $20.

National Geographic Museum: 1600 M St. NW, DC; www. nationalgeographic.org

MONDAY, JUNE 18 Collaboration Cider Dinner Longtime friends Chef Alex Vallcorba (ANXO) and Chef Russell Smith (The Source) are teaming up for Volume two of our Collaboration Cider Dinner Series. The food will feature elements of both Chinese and Basque cuisine, each course paired with a different ANXO cider. Price for a ticket including cider pairings is $75 plus tax and tip. 7-10 p.m. Tickets $100. Anxo Cidery & Pintxos Bar: 300 Florida Ave. NW, DC; www.anxodc.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 21 Summer Solstice Beer Dinner In celebration of the official start of summer, Dupont Circle restaurant Firefly and DC Brau are bringing together the finest flavors of the season with their first-ever Summer Solstice Beer Dinner. This festive occasion will pair a four-course meal specially crafted by Executive Chef Rich Falbo with everlasting pours of popular DC brews throughout the evening. 7-9 p.m. Tickets $49-$55. Firefly DC: 1310 New Hampshire Ave. NW, DC; www.firefly-dc.com Wines Over Washington Come to the rooftop at BLT Steak DC for the 2018 Wines Over Washington season. One Thursday each month, from May-September, BLT will host a distinct winery and pair their signature pours with delicious bites from their chef. Enjoy live music and learn about winemaking and the history of vineyards from brand representatives and skilled sommeliers. 6-8 p.m. Tickets $65. BLT Steak: 1625 I St. NW, DC; www.bltrestaurants.com

SATURDAY, JUNE 23 Garden of Jokes: A Veterans Comedy Show This performance will feature comedians who have graduated from ASAP’s Comedy Bootcamp program, the first standup

SATURDAY, JUNE 23 SUNDAY, JUNE 24 Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle For more than two-and-a-half decades, the Barbecue Battle has been cooking up lots of great food, music & fun. This tasty event offers a two-day line-up of everything from tempting BBQ & Grilled food samples to cooking demonstrations, interactive exhibits and non-stop live entertainment on three music stages. 30 bands will perform rock, reggae, jazz, blues, R&B and DC’s own gogo. 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. $10-$20.

Giant National Capital BBQ Battle: 555 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, DC; www.bbqindc.com

comedy class in the country for veterans. The event will provide a platform for veteran comedians to showcase their talents and tell their hilarious stories in front of members of the DC community. 7:30 p.m.

Tickets $15. The Farm: 55 M St. SE, DC; www.asapasap.org

Soca Loca 2018 Join for the Biggest DC Carnival day party. Enjoy the indoor and outdoor rooftop experience experience, with sounds from Barrie Hype. Mystic Vibes, Fyah Oats and Fat Mike. 3- 9 p.m. Big Chief: 2002 Fenwick St. NE, DC; www.bigchiefdc.com

Maryland Vintage Wine and Jazz Festival Join for the Maryland Vintage Wine & Jazz Festival at the beautiful National Harbor on the waterfront of the historic Potomac River, as they welcome regional and local recording artists, wines, artisans, vendors and delicious foods. Bring an appetite for great music, great wine, great food and enjoy the fresh air, summer sun and the sounds of summer. 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Tickets $30-$175.

Maryland Vintage Wine and Jazz Festival: 137 National Plaza, National Harbor, MD; www. marylandvintagewine.com

Vine on the Waterfront The festival is a community fun filled event featuring the best tastes of local foods and wine, artisans, a children’s corner and the best bands playing live. The event is rain or shine.

12-6 p.m. $10-$15. Vine on the Waterfront: 100 Madison St. Alexandria, VA; @vineonthewaterfront

SATURDAY, JUNE 30

(and a toast) to Uncle Sam than by drinking in America’s fruits of the vine and amber waves of grain. Session one starts at 1 p.m., session two starts at 6 p.m. $29-$89. Akridge Lot at Buzzard Point: 1926 2nd St. SW, DC; www.drinkthedistrict.com Taste of Fairfax The Taste of Fairfax at Fair Oaks Mall is a community celebration of good food, exhibitors, performances and live music.

This family-friendly event allows you to stroll through the dozens of fun exhibitors outdoors at the convenient and spacious Fair Oaks Mall parking area at your leisure while sampling some of the delicious offerings of local restaurants and chefs. Fair Oaks Mall: 11750 Fair Oaks Mall, Fairfax, VA; www.fairfaxva.gov

Red White & Brew Festival Show your patriotic colors while you kick back with friends, food, tunes and a sweet selection of reds, whites and brews. There’s no better way to raise a flag

KICK OFF SUMMER

AT NATIONALS PARK JUNE 18

JUNE 19–21

VS.

VS.

NEW YORK YANKEES

BALTIMORE ORIOLES

JUNE 22–24 VS. PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES

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World Cup Spots

Best Soccer Bars to Catch the Games

By Fareeha Rehman

The Queen Vic

Across the Pond Restaurant & Pub

This will be Across the Pond’s first full summer open in Dupont Circle, and the restaurant and pub is quickly establishing itself as the go-to for watching soccer. Catch the early games with their $10.99 breakfast special: scrambled eggs, bacon or sausage, home fries, toast, and tea or coffee. Add a Heineken with your meal for $5 or enjoy a $4 pilsner, $4 Bloody Mary or $4 mimosa. Beyond the fried favorites, expand your palate with the pub’s chicken pot pie, cottage pie or chicken curry – all popular dishes on the menu.

“Our owners have grown up playing and watching soccer on both sides of the pond,” says owner and partner Gerry Feeney. “And while we may have our personal allegiances to Liverpool and Manchester United, we enjoy watching and following the sport.”

Feeney adds that he’s excited to have Soccer & Beer TV, hosted by retired New Zealand player Duncan Oughton, film an upcoming episode at Across the Pond soon.

1732 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC; www.acrosstheponddc.com

Babylon Futbol Cafe

Founded specifically for watching international soccer, Babylon Futbol Cafe Owner Paul Hecton says his bar supports all major sports, but its “heart and soul is world football.” Babylon will offer draft beer specials throughout the World Cup, and dishes ranging from Ethiopian sega tibs (marinated beef with peppers, onions, garlic and tomato) and the best-of-both-worlds option mar y tierra (steak, shrimp and fries), plus familiar comfort foods like burgers and pizza.

After eating, you can have shisha (hookah) while watching the games. Babylon isn’t supporting a specific team since the U.S. didn’t qualify, but Hecton says he has a strong customer base of South American and African supporters.

“European powerhouses always bring a good crowd,” he says.

“Babylon wins when there’s good soccer.”

Babylon shows games in various languages, depending on the carrier and the majority of the audience watching in the restaurant.

3501 S. Jefferson St. Falls Church, VA; www.babylonfc.com

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Photo: Erich Morse

The tables have turned – the bar tables, that is.

From June 14 to July 15, local sports bars will be playing footage recorded live from Russia: the 2018 FIFA World Cup. And there are no secrets here. We caught up with eight of the DC area’s best soccer bars about their food and drink specials and programming, so you can pick and choose where to watch the games and grab some grub.

Dock FC

After Ari Gejdenson retired from playing soccer professionally, he returned from Europe to his hometown and eventually opened soccer bar Dock FC in Ivy City. For World Cup season, his bar is offering a food and beverage package that’s great for a group that wants to enjoy the spot’s communal-style seating, or for the dedicated solo fan who wants to munch from morning games all the way to late-night. It includes a pitcher of beer, Cholula chicken wings, nachos and churros for $50.

Director of operations Teija Staples says the Dock FC team will be rooting for Argentina during the tournament “because Lionel Messi is a gentleman.” Spanish commentators will be displayed on the bar’s TVs, as well as English, and visitors opting out of the special food and drink package can still choose from a variety of good eats cooked by two adjoining restaurants: La Puerta Verde and Ari’s Diner. Plus, sweet tooths can enjoy all-day breakfast options like the brioche French toast.

1400 Okie St. NE, DC; www.dockfcdc.com

Fadó

This Irish pub has no allegiance to a specific soccer team. The team at Fadó will be rooting for all countries while offering buckets of Bud, Bud Light, or Mich Ultra 16-oz. aluminums (five for $25). Goose Island IPA, Goose Island Summer and Goose Island 312 Urban Wheat 12oz. bottles, plus buckets of Harp or Guinness Blonde 12-oz. bottles, are also available at five for $25. If you’re not a beerhead, enjoy $4 mimosas or Red Bulls, or a Bloody Mary for $8.

According to assistant general manager Kevin Bernard, the space will be decorated for the World Cup and you’ll be served by a staff that deeply cares about the games. Talk soccer with the servers while ordering dishes inspired by Dublin’s best pubs. For dessert, try their Fadó brownie with Guinness ice cream. It’s big enough to share!

808 7th St. NW, DC; www.fadoirishpub.com

Enjoy cold Modelo during the World Cup matches at the following participating location:

Dock FC – Ivy City Mackey’s Pub Cactus Cantina

Elephant and Castle BlackFinn

Nicks Riverside Grill El Rey

Lucky Bar

Enjoy a Russian breakfast while catching the early soccer tournaments at Lucky Bar. Russian food specials will also be available during lunch, as well as Russian-themed cocktails and beer. The bar is dedicated to the sport year-round and the Lucky Bar team will ensure you’ll be surrounded by staff who are “dedicated to the beautiful game,” whether it’s a relegation battle in the lower division or the World Cup Final, says owner Paul Lusty. When Colombia plays on June 19, there’s a good chance you’ll find some live entertainment via Colombian DJs and musicians who come out to party and dance – win or lose.

“We pride ourselves on bringing every available game that is technologically possible to our screens from every corner of the globe,” Lusty says.

Lucky Bar offers Spanish and English commentary, depending on the matchups on the day. If you’re still fiending for that soccer-loving atmosphere after World Cup, this bar is dedicated to the sport year-round.

1221 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC; www.luckybardc.com

The Pug

This summer will mark the first time that The Pug will be serving food, just in time for the World Cup games. Through a partnership with Toki Underground’s kitchen, bite-sized bar offerings will include watermelon radish crudo with furikake (a Japanese dry seasoning typically used over cooked rice) and lemon. Named after owner Tony Tomelden, you can also try the Uncle Tony’s Lumpia, a fried pork and vegetable egg roll with xie xie sauce.

The H Street spot’s fried chicken or cauliflower steamed buns are other unique dishes packed with Asian flavors like Japanese mayo, sweet chili sauce and Thai basil. Since they’re small plates, you may want to have a hearty dinner beforehand and come by afterward for a drink and to catch the late games with your friends.

1234 H St. NE, DC; wwww.thepugdc.com

The Queen Vic

This British pub (supporting England in the World Cup, of course) has specials daily – just check the chalkboard when you walk in. And during the tournament, Queen Vic will offer 20-oz. Carlsbergs for $5 while each game is on.

“We have been a soccer bar since we opened and have watched it grow as a sport in DC over the past seven years,” says co-owner Roneeka Baghotra. “We have a license that allows us to open earlier than a lot of other places throughout the year and will always try to open early or show a match if a guest requests it.”

Share a plate of Ploughman’s Lunch with fellow fans; the appetizer includes grilled bacon, goat cheese-stuffed dates, cheddar, mustard, pickles, apple salad and bread. Or if you want something all to yourself, try the chicken tikka masala – chicken in spiced tomato sauce served with rice and handmade naan.

1206 H St. NE, DC; www.thequeenvicdc.com

Summers

Summers Restaurant is chalk-full of HDTVs that will be streaming the World Cup games all day, every day via satellite. Early games can be viewed during the Courthouse-based sports bar and soccer pub’s weekend breakfast and brunch hours. Breakfast options include pancakes, omelets and a classic British-style breakfast, to name a few.

This soccer-centric bar has no specified World Cup specials, but you can enjoy the Monday burger and fries special all day for $6.49.

Summers also has all your favorite guilty pleasures available for dessert – including a molten lava chocolate cake. So head to Arlington and swing

by Summers during your weekend bar hop to catch a World Cup game.

1520 N. Courthouse Rd. Arlington, VA; www.summers-restaurant.com Learn more about the 2018 FIFA World Cup at www.fifa.com.

Make Across the Pond your Headquarters for World Cup 2018 • All games on projection screen • $5 Heinekens during matches • Game-day breakfast special Happy Hour, 4-8 pm, M-F $4 Pilsner, $4 Rails, $5 Apps & More!

Across the Pond Restaurant & Pub 1732 Connecticut Avenue NW, WDC acrosstheponddc.com T: 202.232.4800

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@AcrossthePondDC @AcrossthePondDC

Facebook.com/ Acrossthe PondDC

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1214 18th st nw washington dc /publicbardc /publicbar www.PublicBarDC.com

WATERFRONT WEATHER DC’S RIVERSIDE NEIGHBORHOODS

By M.K. Koszycki and Fareeha Rehman Nothing says summer quite like spending your days near the water. DC is home to five distinct waterfront neighborhoods, each unique in their own way but brimming with drinking, dining and outdoor activities. Here are some highlights and fun facts about each waterfront, along with insight from locals about what makes them all so unique. Our riverside neighborhood rundown starts with a spotlight on some of the best foodie spots these areas have to offer, so read on for the inside scoop.

DISTRICT WHARF

SPOTLIGHT ON KIRWAN’S ON THE WHARF

Photo: Courtesy of District Wharf

By Alex Thompson

Seven years ago, Mark Kirwan was one of the first to sign a letter of intent for restaurant space on District Wharf, earning the prime waterview spot and riverside patio that Kirwan’s on the Wharf currently occupies on the revitalized waterfront.

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“The doors to our building open up like an accordion, so when the weather is nice, you feel like you are sitting outside even when you are sitting inside,” Kirwan says. “And with the tables across the street at the waterside patio and outside

ON TAP | JUNE 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

our building, we’ve basically recreated our inside capacity outdoors.”

After quite a bit of research on The Wharf and realizing the Irish lived in the area during the 1800s, Kirwan says he wanted to “bring the Irish back to The Wharf.”

“I’m just trying to create a stepping stone for Ireland to people,” he says, noting that the entire bar itself came from Ireland – from the woodwork to the tiles. And to add to the pub’s authenticity, the carpenters who helped construct everything and the chef who Kirwan collaborated with on the menu are also from Ireland.

With nine years of experience working for Guinness, Kirwan says the beer selection – along with the overall beverage list – is very important to him.

“We want to keep things completely import and local craft beers [on our draughts] to be sure and represent all the great beers being produced in the area,” he says.

This summer, Kirwan’s will offer a riverside patio menu and a new fish-and-chip kiosk to go along with the outdoor drink options.

“We really like to have people sitting on the patios with a nice glass of rosé, cocktail or beer, enjoying the atmosphere,”he adds.

749 Wharf St. SW, DC; 202-554-3818 www.kirwansonthewharf.com

summer where DC meets in

Join us for sunny days and spectacular waterfront sunsets at The Wharf, featuring a fantastic lineup of waterside activities and special events.

MAY 5 Running of the Chihuahuas MAY 18 Bike to Work Day Pit Stops MAY 19 Blessing of the Fleet

JUN 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Waterfront Workouts JUN 2 Saturday Night Dancing: Swing JUN 3, 10, 17, 24 Sunday Brunch JUN 6, 13, 20, 27 Wednesday at The Wharf JUN 9 Pride on The Pier JUN 16–17 DC Jazz Fest JUN 21 Corona’s Lightest Day

JUL 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Sunday Brunch JUL 4 4th of July Patriots’ Party JUL 7 Soccer & Sangria Saturday Night Dancing: Country Line JUL 11, 18, 25 Wednesday at The Wharf JUL 14 All-Star Game Salute JUL 28 Shark Bites & Brews

AUG 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Wednesday at The Wharf AUG 4 Saturday Night Dancing: Salsa AUG 5, 12, 19, 26 Sunday Brunch AUG 18 Glow in the Dark Kayaking AUG 25 Capital Dragon Boat Regatta

SEP 15 Police & Firefighters Appreciation Picnic

Download the District Wharf App

18-70438-HMW-DW_Summer_2018_Ads_hz9.indd 4

Dates, times, and performances are subject to changes and additions.

5/1/18 10:12 AM

In Search of Seafood

Look no further: we’ve got the lowdown on The Wharf’s best seafood options by price point.

Keeping It Casual: Main Avenue Fish Market Clam chowder to-go is the perfect handheld snack for a walk around the Potomac River. If you’d rather skip the walk and turn in for an early evening at home, why not take freshly caught trout or crab to cook? All of these are available at The Wharf’s open-air fish market. The oldest in the U.S., the Municipal Fish Market is in the midst of extensive renovations as part of the entire Wharf project.

Although the market will have a fresh, clean look and some new options for dining, rest assured that its charm remains intact. Some prefer boats over cars and The Wharf hears that. They’ll be adding even more space for docking boats for a few hours or even overnight. While new restaurants are also in the works, visitors can still enjoy comforting classics from family-owned businesses Jessie Taylor Seafood and Captain White’s Seafood City.

1100 Maine Ave. SW, DC; www.wharfdc.com

Hip But Lowkey: Hank’s Oyster Bar Hank’s is the place for “urban beach food,” a description used by founder Jamie Leeds. Marketing assistant Erin Lucas explains, “[We’re] all about using fresh, local seafood to create dishes that are comforting, simple and delicious.”

The oyster bar’s signature dish – the lobster roll with Old Bay fries - is just that. Enjoy your fries with a glass of Hank’s Hops by Atlas Brew Works. For a summer day combo, Lucas recommends the seafood pateau (raw oysters, shrimp cocktail, mussels in escabeche, middleneck clams, ceviche and chilled steamed lobster) with a Hank’s Hanky Panky cocktail for a bubbly citrus refreshment. “[Hank’s] is a special place that’s perfect for family night, date night or just hanging out with your friends,” Lucas says.

Check out Hank’s menu online to learn more about classic dishes and daily specials to enjoy all summer long.

701 Wharf St. SW, DC; www.hanksoysterbar.com

Feeling Fancy: Del Mar de Fabio Trabocchi It’s definitely fitting that a restaurant named “of the sea” would offer fresh, delicious seafood right by the water.

If you can’t afford a trip to Spain this summer, Del Mar assures the authentic taste you would experience across the ocean – owner Maria Trabocchi is a Spanish native.

“Many of our recipes come directly from [Maria’s] family and her heritage,” says Jesse Gerstein, who handles media relations at Del Mar. “The restaurant was designed to replicate the flavors, colors and textures of coastal Spain.”

Del Mar’s signature summer dish is any of their seafood paellas. Try one with a gin and tonic at dinner and end your evening with one of Del Mar’s scrumptious Spanish desserts, like a melt-in-your-mouth Flan de Maria. This upscale restaurant also offers brunch on the weekends.

791 Wharf St. SW, DC; www.delmardc.com

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Photo: Courtesy of District Wharf

Summer Sounds The Wharf’s music scene is bustling, with headlining acts several nights a week at the Anthem – from Sylvan Esso to Janelle Monáe – and a mix of local and up-and-coming artists at intimate neighboring venues Union Stage and Pearl Street Warehouse. But for the summer months, District Wharf is offering locals the opportunity to enjoy music al fresco with regular outdoor programming.

Music lovers who steal the show with their dance moves can show out at The Wharf’s new Saturday Night Dancing on the first Saturday of every month; the lineup includes swing, country line and salsa dancing. Free and open to the public, folks can dance to live music on Transit Pier, which The Wharf’s marketing and communications director, Matt Jahromi, says is “magical around dusk.” If you’d rather just listen than move your feet, check out Wednesdays at The Wharf for live music on Transit Pier throughout the summer. Plus, DC JazzFest will be making its first appearance at The Wharf this year on June 16-17 with at least 20 musical acts.

“The waterfront setting with public seating along the piers as you listen to live music makes this a special place to enjoy beautiful DC summer nights,” Jahromi says.

Learn more at www.wharfdc.com.

Waterside Drinks Up Above the Crowd Brighton For your post-show hunger, Brighton’s British menu will help you reenergize.

Hydrate with water, then drink up with their selection of beer and wine.

949 Wharf St. SW, DC; www.brighton-dc.com

Whiskey Charlie A premium experience, the rooftop lounge is opportune for impressing your guest with a view of the sunset, M2 (mango, lemon and mint flavors) cocktail in hand. 975 7th St. SW, DC; www.whiskeycharliewharf.com

On the Water Cantina Bambina This bambina of the original restaurant, Cantina Marina (closed for Wharf renovations), isn’t just a concession stand. Try their Dockside Donkey cocktail while enjoying the rooftop bar. 801 Wharf St. SW, DC; @cantinabambina

Watering Hole Owned by and located across from Kith and Kin, Watering Hole offers right-on-the-water seating with beer, wine and a pop-up bar feel. 801 Wharf St. SW, DC; www.kithandkindc.com

Take Metrobus and Metrorail to the...

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R+R=Now (A Robert Glasper Supergroup)

MACEO PARKER

Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah | Ivan Lins & Friends | Ben Williams Presents: I Am a Man Mark G. Meadows | Jazz Academy Ensemble | Washington Jazz Arts Institute Ensemble AMP Trio feat. Tahira Clayton |Akua Allrich | Batala | Michael Ventura | Fabrizio Bosso Quartet Edmar Castañeda & Grégoire Maret | Melissa Aldana | Rochelle Rice | The Jihye Lee Orchestra Hess Is More | Yosvany Terry & Baptiste Trotignon’s Ancestral Memories | Reginald Cyntje José André Band | DCJazzPrix Finalists | and more!

PRESENTING SPONSOR

PLATINUM SPONSORS

The Washington Post is the official media sponsor of DC JazzFest at The Wharf

GOLD SPONSORS

SILVER SPONSORS

PepsiCo is the official drink sponsor of DC JazzFest at The Wharf

The DC Jazz Festival®, a 501(c)(3) non-profit service organization, and its programs are made possible, in part, with major grants from the Government of the District of Columbia, Muriel Bowser, Mayor; with awards from the National Endowment for the Arts, the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, an agency supported in part by the National Endowment for the Arts, the Office of Cable Television, Film, Music & Entertainment; and the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development; and, in part, by major funding from the Anne and Ronald Abramson Family Foundation, The Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation, Gillon Family Charitable Fund, Wells Fargo Foundation, The NEA Foundation, Venable Foundation, The Dallas Morse Coors Foundation for the Performing Arts, The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation, The Reva & David Logan Foundation, John Edward Fowler Memorial Foundation, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and the Mid-Atlantic Arts Foundation. ©2018 DC Jazz Festival. All rights reserved.

For artists and a complete schedule, visit DCJAZZFEST.ORG BRONZE SPONSORS

Inside District Hardware Q&A with co-owner Jarrett Conway

We caught up with Jarett Conway, co-owner of family-owned, neighborhood-focused District Hardware, about his niche bike shop, hardware store and café at The Wharf.

On Tap: District Hardware has a lot to offer customers. What do you see people coming in for the most?

Jarrett Conway: There is a lot going on, but I’d say still less than other retailers with a larger footprint. We have three complementary departments, but [are] very geared toward an urban community. [Velo Cafe] is very well-patronized, and I think the community has really responded to the fact that a local-centric business has shown up. The hardware store has also seen a good number of customers who haven’t had the convenience of a hardware store in Southwest.

Photo: Courtesy of District Hardware

really love the water?

OT: How does the shop in its current form still connect with your grandfather Stanley Conway’s original plans for his 1971 store, and how does it differ?

JC: The core concept of my grandfather’s initial store is still there, just with more products. From a business perspective, he was always very progressive in what he offered. It’s really about the customer and the convenience to them. I’m very proud of the fact we’ve been able to maintain that same approach.

OT: What types of classes and events do you offer?

JC: They’re almost always free and allow us to meet and engage with our neighbors, impart some wisdom, and bring in some new folks that might not have walked by otherwise. All the events are targeted toward some segment of our business. In hardware, we have classes on plants and how to fix a hole in drywall. In bike, we offer group rides and free clinics on how to perform a safety check. And in café, we’ll offer classes on coffee brewing methods or host a tap takeover.

At District Wharf, folks can dock and live on their houseboats.

730 Maine Ave. SW, DC; 202-659-8686; www.districthardware.com

CAPITOL RIVERFRONT

Photo: Courtesy of Capitol Riverfront

Spotlight on Chloe The newest venture of wellknown and well-traveled local chef Haidar Karoum, Chloe brings simplicity in design but diversity in menu to the burgeoning food scene of the Capitol Riverfront. We asked the chef and owner about the freshest new kitchen in Southeast DC.

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On Tap: Why was the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood chosen to host Chloe?

Haidar Karoum: I was drawn to the energy of this neighborhood. There is lots of new construction and activity.

Plus, I was drawn to being close to the water since I’m a Pisces!

On Tap | JUNE 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

OT: What part of Chloe’s atmosphere keeps guests coming back for more?

HK: I feel that we are approachable, whether you’re coming in before or after a game or are on a date.

OT: What kind of lunch and dinner crowd does Chloe attract? What makes it different from other restaurants in the area?

HK: We get a bit of everything: neighbors stopping by for a quick bite, Nats fans stopping in before the game, wine lovers exploring our beverage selection and couples out for a nice meal together. I think that our menu is pretty diverse. Not that others are not diverse, but we jump around the globe a little more.

OT: Chloe’s menu tackles a lot of different international cuisine. Is there any new territory that you hope to add to Chloe’s menu in the future?

HK: [We’re always] incorporating culinary influences from all over, as opposed to focusing on Spanish or South East Asian, for instance. As it warms up, I tend to go lighter and brighter.

1331 4th St. SE, DC; 202-313-7007 www.restaurantchloe.com

Inside Audi Field

Q&A with D.C. United Coach Ben Olsen

By Michael Coleman With two decades of experience as a player and coach for D.C. United, Ben Olsen – the team’s current head coach – could not be more excited about moving his team into the brand new Audi Field in July. The state-of-the art but intimate facility at Buzzard Point in Southwest DC is sure to be the envy of Major League Soccer. We talked to Olsen about what makes it special.

On Tap: Why is there so much enthusiasm about the new field among players and fans?

Ben Olsen: It’s something we’ve been waiting for a long time, and when I say “we,” it’s a lot of people who have put a lot of work and energy into this club. It’s for the fans, and in some way the league itself has been waiting for this. There have been a lot of promises and almost stadiums, and to now be a month or two away from the opening game is a very exciting time for everyone involved in D.C. United and the soccer community in the United States.

OT: What are some big advantages to the stadium?

BO: Well, there are no disadvantages [laughs]. The intimacy of the stadium is going to be one of the best atmospheres in the country – and that directly translates to the players with extra energy and the feeling of not playing in an old, rundown stadium. It’s another sign of progress and that our club is moving in the direction we need to go to keep up with the rest of the league.

Photo: Courtesy of D.C. United

OT: You spent many years as a player and coach at D.C. United’s old home, RFK Stadium, in Southeast DC. Any thoughts on moving from there?

BO: RFK was a great building for us and there were nights where there were unbelievable atmospheres there. It’s just time to move.

You can only sustain that so much from a business standpoint, and from the recruitment of players, we just have to evolve. It’s now time.

It’s a unique building, and it will attract new fans and reward our old fans who have been with us all these years. I expect it to really be a game changer for the club.

Learn more about Audi Field and D.C. United’s 2018 season at www.dcunited.com.

Audi Field: 1711 1st St. SW, DC; www.audifielddc.com

Drinks for Every Palate Capitol Riverfront has something for everyone, regardless of their drink of choice. We picked our top spots for the beerhead, the oenophile and the cocktail connoisseur.

Brews at Bluejacket If you love beer and are indecisive, Bluejacket is the Riverfront hang for you. The microbrewery offers 4-oz. pours of each of their brews from their impressive in-house menu, allowing you to try before you commit to a specific selection or just leisurely sample many different styles of beer. The spot also offers a full brunch, lunch and dinner menu, which is a welcome respite from foraging for food trucks at traditional breweries. 300 Tingey St. SE, DC; www.bluejacketdc.com

Cocktails at Slipstream The popular 14th Street outpost has expanded to this Southeast location, bringing their craft coffee-meets-craft cocktails vibe to Capitol Riverfront – although, they do start serving cocktails at 8 a.m., so if you ever find yourself in need of some hair of the dog, you know where to go. Slipstream’s known for using seasonal ingredients and influences to make classic cocktails compelling, so

check back often for new offerings as no two creations are alike. 82 I St. SE, DC; www.slipstreamdc.com

Did You Know?

The ground-floor bar at Mission Dos (opening in July) is 125 feet long, longer than the distance between third base to home plate. Mission Dos: 1221 Van St. SE, DC; 202-525-2010; www.misiongroupdc.com

Vino at Whaley’s Rosé Garden It’s no secret that rosé is one of the trendiest drinks of the past few summers. And at this point, it’s fairly obvious that it’s here to stay.

“I tasted 200 rosés for this season’s menu,” says Beverage Director Brian Zipin. “Quality, price and flavor profile are the most important.

We want to offer rosés from all over the world that are unique in style and grape variety.

The key element to any wine is the one you want to continue drinking. There has to be something that draws you back to it.”

Whether you’ve been a fan since the fledgling days of the trend or are just testing the waters of this summery pink wine, check out Whaley’s Rosé Garden for a real rosé immersion.

301 Water St. SE, DC; www.whaleysdc.com

Photo: Anna Meyer www.ontaponline.com | JUNE 2018 | On Tap

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Get Outside

In Capitol Riverfront Friday Night Concerts Forget the service fees of ticketed outdoor venues and enjoy this free, summer-long concert series in Yards Park every Friday night.

With diverse artists ranging from Black Masala (June 15) to Trailer Grass Orchestra (July 27), there’s something for all music lovers to enjoy.

Fitness Classes No matter your preferred workout or skill level, there’s a class for you this summer at Yards and Canal Parks. Featuring workouts like barre, yoga and strength training and hosted by a variety of boutique fitness outlets, these free classes are a great way to find your athletic outlet this season.

Movies Missed catching box office hits like Wonder Woman, Black Panther and Coco? Fear not, because you can enjoy these titles and more in the lofty outdoor Canal Park for free all through the summer. Bring a blanket and some tasty treats and settle in for a free night of film.

Learn more at www.capitolriverfront.org.

GEORGETOWN

Photo: Sam Kittner for Georgetown BID

Brunch Vibes Brunch can mean anything from an artisanal latte and avocado toast to eggs Benedict and mimosas as far as the eye can see. No matter your idea of the best brunch, Georgetown is the place to be on weekend mornings when you’re ready to indulge in all things sweet, savory and boozy.

Bluestone Lane

Farmers Fishers Bakers

The Australian coffee outpost is now open next to The Frye Company. True to their roots, Bluestone Lane offers regional favorites like the flat white, Aussie iced latte and Vegemite toast alongside modern classics like the avocado smash and matcha latte. This particular location is tiny with only a total of four seats in the house, but don’t let that discourage you from getting your daily dose of Gold Coast delicacies.

If you’re looking for a boozy brunch but want to venture outside the typical Bloody Mary or mimosa, Farmers Fishers Bakers has you covered. Their $32 per person weekend brunch has something sweet and savory for every kind of palate. Sweet bread French toast, breakfast jambalaya and traveling trays of sushi are served with complementary coffees and teas. The full tiki bar and brunch cocktail menu is available and complements the wide range of available cuisine.

“Take a stroll over to Georgetown Waterfront Park with a cold brew in hand and enjoy your brunch on the grass overlooking the scenic view,” suggests marketing director Andrew Stone.

“The food should be fun,” says beverage director Jon Arroyo. “You don’t want to order a cocktail that has four ounces of rum in it that can put you on your butt and then pair that with something esoteric. You want to have fun on both sides.”

3000 K St. NW, DC; www.farmersfishersbakers.com

Hungry for more?

“We also have a location in Foggy Bottom that offers a more extensive brunch menu, plenty more seating and table service,” Stone says.

The larger location will also be adding alcohol to their menu.

1066 Wisconsin Ave. NW, DC; bluestonelane.com

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Malmaison A taste of France right next to the waterfront, Malmaison offers a healthy mix of European and American brunch classics and an impressive espresso menu.

Boozy options include bellinis, brunch cocktails and $22 bottomless mimosas.

Come for the bubbles and stay for the view and live jazz band that can often be found playing on the weekends. 3401 K St. NW, DC; malmaisondc.com

FRIDAY NIGHT CONCERT SERIES 2018

New Time

7-9pm at Yards Park | 355 Water Street SE

Shane Gamble

Country

6/29

Jah Works

Reggae

7/6

Jimi Smooth & HitTime

Motown

7/13

19th Street Band

Americana

7/20

Jeff From Accounting

Pop Hits

7/27

Trailer Grass Orchestra

Bluegrass Party

8/3

Practically Einstein

Rock

8/10

Party Like It’s

Pop Hits

8/17

La Unica

Latin Rock

8/24

U.S. Navy Band “Country Current”

Country/Bluegrass

4th Street

6/22

3rd Street

World Funk

y Ave

Black Masala

Jerse

6/15

Right on the Boardwalk!

New

Special DC JazzFest Artist

1st Street

Marvillous Beats

Half Street

6/8

Tingey Street N Street

Nationals Park

Water Street

Yards Park

ac

om Pot

Ave

Anacostia River

Beer & Wine Available Onsite

(must be 21+ no outside alcohol)

yardspark.org | capitolriverfront.org | @CapitolRiverfront | @YardsParkDC | #CapRiv

Navy Yard

Riverfront Recreation Key Bridge Boathouse

Photo: Sam Kittner for Georgetown BID

If you’re craving adventure, the Key Bridge Boathouse is your one-stop shop for watersports. Tour the monuments while on a SUP (standup paddleboarding), do yoga while paddleboarding, or kayak and canoe down the Potomac. Outdoorsy types can purchase a season pass for unlimited paddling, access to boathouses around the city and half off the aforementioned classes and tours. Whether you’re a lifelong DC resident looking for a new way to see the sights in your backyard or new to the area and looking to explore the great outdoors, the plethora of options will keep you entertained all summer. 3500 Water St. NW, DC; 202-337-9642; www.boatingindc.com

Inside Hill & Dale Records Q&A with owner Rob Norton Tucked away just steps from the waterfront, Hill & Dale is an oasis for music lovers in Georgetown.

We caught up with owner Rob Norton about what makes Georgetown a great home for a record store.

On Tap: Why did you pick Georgetown as Hill & Dale’s home?

Rob Norton: In 2013, an art gallery was moving out of our space in Georgetown. This space offered an excellent layout, close access to lots of people and affordability. I couldn’t be more pleased with the beautiful space that’s home to the store.

OT: What is your customer base like?

RN: [It’s] very difficult to

categorize because it’s quite diverse. We have tons of students and young adults who are just getting into vinyl for the first time. We have many Gen X and baby boomers who are building and rebuilding their collections, and a good number of tourists and business travelers who make a point of visiting the store whenever they’re in DC. One of the greatest benefits of the store is the wonderful community of regular customers who visit the shop, love to discuss music, and support us with their business and their friendship.

OT: Do you feel like your shop, along with other iconic music outposts like Gypsy Sally’s and Blues Alley, are keeping

Photo: Courtesy of Hill & Dale

the Georgetown music scene alive?

RN: It’s nice to be a part of a group of spots in Georgetown that are contributing to the strong music culture in DC. There are so many fantastic venues and record shops throughout the area that help make DC a great city for music.

I’m just happy and feel so fortunate that so many people have supported our store and consider what we have built a

Music Mainstays

Blues Alley The iconic, Dizzy Gillespie-founded jazz and supper club continues to provide an outpost for both dedicated jazz fans and those who want to experience live music in Georgetown.

Highlights of this summer’s schedule include Tuck & Patti (June 23-24), Miki Howard (July 7-8), and an Earth, Wind and Fire tribute band (August 14). Be sure to check out the Artist of the Week cocktail special, which changes to highlight the headliners. 1073 Wisconsin Ave. NW, DC; www.bluesalley.com Gypsy Sally’s Billing themselves as “the music venue for serious music lovers who don’t take themselves too seriously,” Gypsy Sally’s showcases local and national acts on their main stage and in the Instaworthy Vinyl Room. Located under the Key Bridge, this longstanding location is a great place to grab a drink indoors on hot or stormy nights. Their summer lineup includes residency shows from Electric Love Machine (June 8, July 12 and August 9), Ghost-Note (June 14), and Knox Hamilton (July 19). 3401 K St. NW, DC; www.gypsysallys.com

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part of the city’s great music tradition.

OT: What are some of your favorite records currently for sale at Hill & Dale?

RN: We’ve really been enjoying Snail Mail’s Habit, Leon Bridges’ Good Thing, Beach House’s 7 and the Black Panther soundtrack.

1054 31st St. #010 NW, DC 202-333-5012 www.hillanddalerecords.com

Buzzworthy: The Wing

The working adult version of the no-boysallowed sleepover hit an unassuming Georgetown alley in April. The all-female coworking space offers a home base for the women of DC to make things happen – staffers, freelancers, artists and everyone in-between. Aside from the opportunity to work alongside fellow female movers and shakers, The Wing boasts the Perch Cafe, community programs and free blowouts.

Welcome to a working world where women want for nothing. 1056 Thomas Jefferson St. NW, DC; 202-902-9464; www.the-wing.com

Bangkok Joe’s • Café Cantina • Capital Bikeshare • Capitol Shine - Car Detailing Coldwell Banker • Colonial Parking - 24/7 Garage • Farmers Fishers Bakers Fiola Mare • Gelateria Dolce Vita • Guapo’s of Georgetown Nick’s Riverside Grill • Potomac Riverboat Co • Roche Salon • Sequoia Starbucks • Tony & Joe’s • Winter Ice Skating 3000 & 3050 K STREET NW, WASHINGTON, D.C. | GEORGETOWN | THEWASHINGTONHARBOUR.COM

OLD TOWN ALEXANDRIA

Photo: K Summerer for Visit Alexandria

Drinks on the Dock Whether you want to grab a quick drink before checking out the latest Torpedo Factory exhibit or settle in for a night of leisurely waterside libations, check out these spots offering views as great as their cocktails.

at ALX Community

Blackwall Hitch Between Blackwall Hitch’s comfy, outdoor fireside seating and their dockside view of the Potomac, there really isn’t a bad seat in the house – or a bad drink or dish.

“We have a prime location, a beautiful view and something on the menu for everyone,” says assistant general manager Clifton Daniel of the restaurant’s diverse offerings.

With 20 beers on tap and a menu with summer-ready selections ranging from fried green tomatoes to a grilled watermelon and feta salad, there’s truly something on the menu for even the pickiest palate in your group.

5 Cameron St. Alexandria, VA; www.theblackwallhitch.com

Photo: Courtesy of Blackwall Hitch

Hummingbird This waterfront bar and restaurant offers bright, fresh decor and a stunning view of the river. Situated near the dock and boasting a menu of classics and innovative drinks, there are few better places to enjoy a drink on a lazy summer afternoon while enjoying water views. Pair your boozy slush made with all-natural ingredients (for all of the sweetness with none of the hangover) with one of the savory, seafood-oriented selections from the bar menu (think fried oysters, crab and corn fritters, and even Old Bay-spiced popcorn) for an ideal summer drinking experience. 220 S. Union St. Alexandria, VA; www.hummingbirdva.net

Virtue Feed & Grain For a drink in a unique setting, visit Virtue Feed & Grain. The hip restaurant used to be the home of a late-1800s feed warehouse, and the rustic decor is reminiscent of the building’s history.

“The patio at Virtue provides an urban oasis on the Old Town waterfront,” says Emily Klassen, sales and marketing director. “We have intimate tables lining the brick patio, surrounded by palms and covered with retractable awnings.”

The menu at Virtue is fresh as well. The spot offers rotating specials through the year (highlights of this summer includes seared scallops and a quinoa burger), and an ever-changing craft beer and cocktail menu.

106 S. Union St. Alexandria, VA; www.virtuefeedgrain.com

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Canines and Coworking This spring saw Founders Hall transformed into the ultimate work hard, play hard destination just blocks from the Old Town riverfront. ALX Community is a coworking space with flexible membership and dog-friendly digs. In addition to ample office space, the building is now home to well-loved local juice and acai bowl outpost South Block, athleisure boutique Summit to Soul, and yoga and Pilates studio Vikriya.

Offering daily, monthly and unlimited access in addition to dedicated desks and offices, this new community center is appealing to locals no matter how you choose to use your space. Come for the limitless productivity potential and stay for the dogs, yoga and juice.

ALX Community at Founders Hall: 106 N. Lee St. Alexandria, VA; 703-362-2901; www.alxcommunity.com

Did You Know?

The City of Alexandria is home to a whopping 112 city parks.

Waterfront Parks

Want to picnic, play volleyball or toss the tennis ball to your furry friend? In Old Town, there’s a park for that.

Founders Park 351 N. Union St. Best for: Keeping Fido fit in the dog exercise area, post-dinner strolls on the walking path and participating in pickup volleyball games

Inside Torpedo Factory

Photo: R Kennedy for Visit Alexandria

Q&A with Post-Grad Residency Artist Alexis Gomez The Torpedo Factory is well-known for showcasing talent through its diverse programming, and helping recent graduates make their way in the post-academic world is no exception. The gallery offers the competitive post-grad residency program as a way for recent BFA and MFA graduates to further their practice in the Target Gallery while mingling with art world peers. We spoke to Alexis Gomez, a Northern Virginia native and the Factory’s resident through the end of June, about his work at the waterfront gallery.

Harborside Park 1 Wilkes St. Best for: Grabbing a bite to-go and enjoying a picnic on the water Waterfront Park 1A Prince St. Best for: Docking your boat (if you have one) and taking in the spectacular views of the river with ample waterfront seating

On Tap: What led you to apply to the post-grad residency project, and what has your experience been like so far?

Alexis Gomez: In 2016, there was a show called “Connecting the Dots” where I had a sculpture, and from there, I had another show in the Target Gallery called “Bewitch,” which also extended my relationship with the gallery and the Torpedo Factory in general. This was the first year that people with BFAs could apply, so I did, and I ended up getting it!

OT: What else does the Torpedo Factory offers artists and locals who want to explore the fine arts?

AG: They have a new program that just started called the Late Shift, where the gallery is left open from 7-11 p.m. and artists can come set up tables. There are performances going on, and there are tons of open studios. You can walk in and look around, and lots of artists leave their studios open. It’s definitely a welcoming environment.

OT: What kind of work have you been doing as part of this program?

AG: My focus is in 3D sculpture, primarily life-sized figural sculptures that I make out of wood. A lot of the design aspect is done digitally, and I spend the majority of my workflow just analyzing and moving things around in software. It’s really a translation between virtual and literal, and in a lot of ways it balances the workflow.

Working in life-sized scale is hands-on and going back to my laptop is a bit more tedious, and I think that there’s a mental and physical dialogue that goes on there.

Check out Gomez’s work at the Late Shift’s Art Rock City event at the Torpedo Factory on June 15 from 7-11 p.m., and the By The People Festival’s Augmented Reality activation in collaboration with ARTECHOUSE from June 21-24.

For more information, visit www.alexisgomezart.com.

Torpedo Factory: 105 N. Union St, Alexandria, VA 703-746-4570; www.torpedofactory.org

Historic Digs: Hotel Indigo Hotel Indigo sits on the grounds of what is thought to be the city’s first public building. Discovered in 2015, it is believed the wood used to make the building was repurposed from the mast of a ship. 220 S. Union St. Alexandria, VA; 703-721-3800; www.hotelindigooldtownalexandria.com

Waterfront Transpo Can’t decide which waterfront neighborhood to explore? Take the Potomac Riverboat’s new Wharf Water Taxi to river hop your way to these featured destinations. Learn more at www.potomacriverboatco.com/water-taxi/wharf.

Map: www.potomacriverboatco.com

www.ontaponline.com | JUNE 2018 | On Tap

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NATIONAL HARBOR

Photo: Courtesy of Visit National Harbor

Inside Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center

Date Night Dining

Q&A with Public Relations Manager Rachel Dinbokowitz

We took the guesswork out of researching the best drinking and dining options in National Harbor with this guide to date night dining.

The gorgeous riverfront hotel provides a getaway for locals and vacationers alike because of its central location, just steps from the buzz of National Harbor and accessible to DC and Old Town via car and water taxi. We talked to Rachel Dinbokowitz about the best ways to take advantage of your Harbor staycation this summer.

On Tap: What events is Gaylord hosting this summer?

Rachel Dinbokowitz: We’re hosting a silent disco party in our Belvedere lobby bar that is free for resort guests, and $10 for anyone else who wants to come in. We have a DJ from 9 p.m. to midnight creating special mixes for this event. This runs every Saturday night through Labor Day. We’re also doing something called Flashback Friday, where you can party like it’s the 80s, that’s happening in our rooftop lounge, Pose.

It’s open for resort guests and outside guests for a $20 cover, which is new this summer.

OT: What are your favorite dining options for hotel guests or those visiting for the day?

RD: You have so many different options. Something we are doing is a $10 happy hour at Old Hickory Steakhouse. We’re also offering a stogies and scotch experience with a three-course, prix-fixe dinner and you can follow that with cigars and scotch on our outdoor terrace that overlooks the Capital Wheel and the water.

OT: What makes visiting National Harbor and staying at the Gaylord unique?

RD: You can escape the city if you’re from downtown DC. It’s a nice, quick getaway where you feel like you’re not in the city because it has a resort destination and relaxation feel to it.

201 Waterfront St. National Harbor, MD 301-965-4000; www.nationalharbor.com/gaylord-national

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On Tap | JUNE 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

Photo: Courtesy of Fiorella

Fiorella Pizzeria If you and your date are foodies, look no further than Fiorella. Their menu offers classic Italian staples with shareable twists, like the two-footlong, open-faced lasagna and the passion fruit margarita bowl.

“You can sit and watch our chefs make pizza in our open kitchen or have a private booth and share a bottle of wine,” says general manager Alexander Green.

After your Italian feast, take a romantic stroll around the Harbor to walk off the carbs – or indulge in a delicious dessert like tiramisu.

152 National Plaza, Oxon Hill, MD www.fiorellapizzeria.com

Granite City Food & Brewery Boasting its own inhouse microbrewery and an impressive happy hour selection, Granite City is an ideal meeting spot for craft beer lovers.

“Our onsite microbrewery offers free samples of beer and brew tours,” says manager Stephanie Adams.

She suggests the Prairie Vixen Hefeweizen for beer drinkers, which contains notes of bubblegum, banana and clove. If you’re in the mood for liquor, she suggests the Sour with a Kiss, which plays off a traditional sour by adding red wine to the top of the drink.

200 American Way, Oxon Hill, MD www.gcfb.com

Succotash Double daters rejoice, because Succotash offers several of its signature cocktails in pitchers that are perfect for sharing on their breezy outdoor patio. And don’t let the idea of getting too stuffed on heavy Southern foods with your sweetheart scare you away, because the spot’s innovative take on Southern cuisine is as light and fresh as anything.

“The Delta rice bowl is always my go to,” says sommelier Darlin Kulla.

“You get so many different flavors of vegetables, but it is filling and at the same time not heavy. The catfish is delicious, it’s very lightly breaded. Even our ribs are smoked and have a really bright apple, cider-based sauce so they’re very flavorful.”

186 Waterfront St. Oxon Hill, MD www.succotashrestaurant.com

Bobby McKey’s Dueling Piano Bar

Photo: Courtesy of Visit National Harbor

Outdoor Activities Fitness Classes If you need more exercise beyond walking around the Harbor, Gold’s Gym sponsors fitness classes on the plaza almost every weeknight. Pick from dance, aerobics and Zumba classes and get your sweat on outdoors.

Outdoor Films Venture to the plaza and catch everything from family-friendly flicks to box office hits through September. Enjoy the views of the Harbor with movies on the plaza ranging from Black Panther to Mean Girls.

Summer Festivals Not only is National Harbor known as a dining destination for its established brick-and-mortar bars and restaurants, the waterfront area is host to an impressive lineup of food and drink festivals throughout the summer. Highlights of this year’s lineup include the Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival from June 15-16 and the Maryland Vintage Wine & Jazz Festival on JunePose 23. On Tap Half Page Ad.pdf 1 GN18FB032 Learn more at www.nationalharbor.com.

If you want more than just a casual drink or to graduate from barside karaoke, take your musical talent to Bobby McKey’s for some fun and friendly competition. We caught up with owner Bob Hansan about his popular spot.

On Tap: What are some highlights of your summer programming?

Bob Hansan: We’ve put together a package offering businesses an indoor summer picnic experience for both June and July. We’re offering teachers Friday night show tickets from June to August at no cost. We’ll focus our monthly events around our new boozy brunch, as well as kids’ and teen shows.

OT: What sets Bobby McKey’s apart from other National Harbor spots?

BH: Bobby McKey’s offers entertainment that is unique and ever-changing. We are the only live music venue in the Harbor, providing an all-request show paired with improvisational humor. You will never experience two identical shows, as the performers rely on guests to interact and provide the musical selections.

Our goal is to appeal to guests of all ages and musical tastes, which makes us unique to the DC area as a whole.

5/30/18

5:53 PM

172 Fleet St. National Harbor, MD 301-602-2209; www.bobbymckeys.com

Capital Wheel Bar Need a little liquid courage to venture onto the Capital Wheel? The Flight Deck bar by the iconic Ferris wheel offers the “Take My Drink on the Wheel” cup to do exactly as the name suggests with wine, beer or cider. VIP gondola tickets are also available so you can ride the wheel in style with a glass bottom gondola while sitting in leather booths. Learn more at www.thecapitalwheel.com.

The Awakening This iconic sculpture was purchased by the Peterson Companies to anchor the National Harbor waterfront when development of the innovative downtown area began. Depicting a 72-foot man emerging from the sand, J. Seward Johnson’s iconic piece has quickly become a must-see for all ages – kids can climb it, teens can take selfies with it and adults can admire the art.

Join Us at theTop

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DRINKS • MUSIC • ELECTRIC VIEWS

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This summer, non-hotel guests can dance the night away at Gaylord National’s exclusive 18th floor rooftop lounge

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Pre-purchased $20 cover charge required Thursday - Saturday 10pm

PoseRooftop.com Tickets must be purchased online by 8pm day of visit. No tickets sales on site. FREE entry for overnight Gaylord National guests. You must be 21+ years old with valid ID. Additional restrictions apply and limited availability. See website for details.

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www.ontaponline.com | JUNE 2018 | On Tap

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Photo: Courtesy of The Peoples Drug

By Jean Schindler On Tap keeps locals in the know about the hottest new food and drink spots around town and the top culinary happenings of the month. Read on to get the inside scoop on what’s new and notable in the DC area.

Like the rest of the family, Church Hall is geared toward sociability with long tables, long sofas and games like Cards Against Humanity ready at your beck and call. We heart the 30-plus beers on tap (many local), booze slushies and cocktails on draft, as well as the upscale fairground food (we never say no to a funnel cake). 1070 Wisconsin Ave. NW, DC; www.churchhalldc.com

NEW

Photo: www.tinshopdc.com

Church Hall Open: March 30 Location: Georgetown Lowdown: Remember that indoor mall in Georgetown with a food court? These are fast-fading memories as Georgetown gets cooler and makes an effort to keep up with the action further down the waterfront.

So ICYMI, Church Hall seized the dead space and turned it into a massive, festive, friendly beer hall. The new spot might remind you of its sister bars (Penn Social, Big Chief, Franklin Hall, Highline RxR).

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Photo: Courtesy of Magnolia Kitchen & Bar

Magnolia Kitchen & Bar Open: April 10 Location: Dupont Circle Lowdown: The closing of Dupont Circle’s Circa was the end of an era. But we’re

totally happy with the new spot that’s taken its place: Magnolia Bar & Kitchen.

Magnolia comes from the same folks behind DC stalwarts Scarlet Oak and Southern Hospitality, featuring a busy menu of American fare with a little lux thrown in (think steak tacos with avocado or lamb Bolognese). And don’t overlook the cocktail menu – this is as much a place to grab a drink with friends after work as it is a dinner destination. We particularly like the Scarlet Buzz (sparkling rosé, Giffard pamplemousse, fresh squeezed grapefruit), topped with a Szechuan bud, which imparts the same tingly, mouth-numbing heat found in Szechuan Chinese cuisine. Also a winner: Birch Please (Birkir birch schnapps, blood orange juice, simple syrup, angostura bitters). The restaurant retains the patio and lots of televisions, so you can catch the big games while you enjoy those fancy cocktails. 1601 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC; www.magnoliadupont.com

Photo: Courtesy of The Peoples Drug

you figure out whether to get meatballs or tacos from the other stands in the hall.

Or both. If you are in the mood to learn, there are classes held weekly, focused on everything from “Beginner Knife Skills” to “Dinner in Thailand.” Tastemakers is also an incubator and commercial kitchen, which means that shopping and eating here supports an ecosystem of local businesses and gets new ones on their feet. 2800 10th St. NE, DC; www.tastemakersdc.com

The Peoples Drug Open: May 11 Location: Alexandria Lowdown: Old-timers might remember Peoples Drug Store, the pharmacy chain from another era – just imagine if CVS or Walgreens had a lunch counter and soda fountain where you could order a root beer float. Or maybe a Cameron’s Kick (Pig’s Nose blended scotch, Bushmills Irish whiskey, lemon juice, orgeat), in the case of this homage to a bygone time. The Peoples chain is long gone, but the founders of cocktail bar The Peoples Drug – Teddy Kim, Seth McClelland and Ian McGrath (also behind the nearby Mason Social) – have resurrected its memory with some mighty fine cocktails and a delightful menu of fresh, thoughtfully prepared sandwiches and burgers. 103 N. Alfred St. Alexandria, VA: www.thepeoplesdrug.com

Photo: Courtesy of Tastemakers

Tastemakers Open: April 21 Location: Brookland Lowdown: Anything Captain Cookie and the Milkman does is fine by us. The masterminds behind the popular food truck have opened a marketplace and incubator in a former mayonnaise factory – and it’s going to be the hit of the summer.

Skip the now-overcrowded Union Market and hang here with the cool kids before this location also gets overrun. We’re totally loving Benjamin’s on Franklin, the hall’s cocktail bar, with its menu of both classics and inventions featuring local liquors.

Order a Junto (Catoctin Creek Watershed Gin, aperol, Shrub District pineapple allspice, simple syrup, egg white) while

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Photo: www.the-wing.com

The Wing

NOTABLE

Photo: @lovesmenotdc

Loves Me Not Open: April 21 Location: Adams Morgan Lowdown: Mellow Mushroom has transformed its upstairs dining room into a haunt for hard-drinking artists and the people who love them. Filled with artwork that Everyman can afford and secondhand furniture, this is AdMo as a grownup.

It is still gritty and a little rough around the edges – but jumbo slice is a distant memory and the music is a lot better. The bar menu is the brainchild of Younghyun You, who made a splash at Nocturne.

Here, the menu is shorter and there are fewer fireworks, but it still wows, with cocktails named for songs and poems and books. We loved Fear and Loathing (Wild Turkey 101, green chartreuse, gunpowder tincture, demerara), while all the bloggers are swooning over All the World Is Green (mezcal, becherovka, avocado cilantro puree, lime, honey syrup). We also appreciate the “Starving Artists Menu,” which features reasonably-priced classics.

2436 18th St. NW, DC; @lovesmenotdc

Open: April 12 Location: Georgetown Lowdown: Sorry, gentlemen – this one’s just for the ladies (but we’re happy to tell you ALL about it). The Wing is a members-only coworking space that champions the “professional, civic, social and economic advancement of women through community.” The powder room has bottles of Chanel perfume, and there’s a lactation station and a meditation room, all housed in a canal-adjacent rowhouse that was once home to DC’s first all-female architecture firm. In terms of style, think Jean Harlow meets Geraldine Ferraro meets Amal Clooney, with lavish displays of art and books by women. In terms of edibles, look for local, women-owned businesses highlighted at The Perch, the club’s in-house café and bar. The women of DC’s Republic Restoratives stock the bar and run the cocktail menu, which features drinks like the Notorious RBG (vodka, orange, lime, sage simple syrup, cranberry) and The Filibuster (matcha, Rodham Rye, lemon juice, honey). Other women-owned suppliers on the café menu of toasts, salads and ’wiches include Baked and Wired, Vaughan Cheeses and Woolf Lavender Farm. Now ladies, you have a choice: join up, or figure out which of your friends are members (they can bring guests). You know you need that Notorious RBG cocktail in your Insta feed. 1056 Thomas Jefferson St. NW, DC; www.the-wing.com

It’s official!

Congratulations to our friends Mike Abbate and Erica Woodward on their recent nuptials.

Wishing you all the best for a wonderful future together.

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FARMING IN THE CITY DC’s Urban Agriculture Movement

By Amanda Weisbrod

Photo: Courtesy of Cultivate the City

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midst the District’s hustle and bustle, green paradises breathe fresh air and deliciously colorful life into the otherwise grey and concrete landscape. For some, passion for urban farming comes from a deep love of an old hobby. For others, the desire to provide jobs and fresh produce to their community is the true driving force. Either way, DC’s urban farming scene is growing – its tendrils reaching into notable bars and restaurants all over the city.

Urban farming, otherwise known as urban agriculture, is exactly what it sounds like: the process of growing food in a city or heavily populated area. Despite difficulties such as finding enough space and the right equipment to grow and harvest plants, several urban farming organizations in DC have found unexpected spots to thrive in the city.

While on a run one day in 2014, former Peace Corps volunteer Mary Ackley was contemplating the best locations to host her new project, Little Wild Things Farm. She drew inspiration from bin-farming techniques, which use small plots of land as efficiently as possible.

But after searching high and low in the heart of the District, she couldn’t find adequate green space anywhere. That’s when she jogged past the Carmelite Friars Monastery in Northeast DC and realized that institutions often had large plots of land, so she sent them an email.

“At first, they were hesitant but we worked out an agreement, and years later, we still have a wonderful partnership with them,” Ackley says. “We maintain the land, they get produce from us every week, and we donate to a local homeless shelter on their behalf. Everybody wins.”

Later, Ackley found another home for Little Wild Things in the basement of The Pub & The People, an awardwinning neighborhood bar. Because The Pub already had plans to build a second bar in their basement in the future, they thought it would be great to have a farm downstairs in the meantime. Little did they know that this unexpected partnership would immensely help both businesses.

When she was getting started, Ackley grew traditional vegetables

but decided to switch to edible flowers and microgreens because they mature faster, allowing her to experiment more with varieties and growing techniques. Microgreens are sprouts of vegetables, herbs and leafy greens that pack an even bigger punch of nutrients and vitamins compared to their full-grown selves.

Many gourmet dishes are incomplete without fresh microgreens, so some of the best chefs in the city flock to Little Wild Things to get their fix. To Nick Bernel, one of The Pub’s four coowners, this was one of the coolest parts of having a “zen garden” in their basement. “[Little Wild Things] sells to the best restaurants in the whole city, so there were constantly chefs and sous chefs in our bar,” says Bernel, who adds this was great exposure for their business, which opened in 2015.

Eric Milton, sous chef at popular Mediterranean eatery Zaytinya, is one of many high-profile customers who goes to Little Wild Things for all of their microgreen needs.

“They are passionate about their product and that translates into their excellent farmer-to-chef relationship,” says Milton, who has been working with Little Wild Things for a year and a half. “They have a great micro fennel that goes well with white fish dishes, and their micro parsley and celery give fresh vegetable dishes a nice pop. The quality of their product is superb, their product is consistent and they are just super easy to work with.”

While The Pub grew in popularity, Little Wild Things grew in size as its proximity to its clients led to higher demand. In October 2017, Little Wild Things grew too large for the space and Ackley decided her time at The Pub was over.

“It was a bittersweet move because we loved The Pub and our partnership, but we just needed more space,” Ackley says. “It was a great way for us to learn about urban farming and how to be space intensive because we really perfected how to be efficient with our time.”

Little Wild Things is moving to a custom-built space in Ivy City this fall, where it will have all the space it needs to grow over 40 varieties of microgreens and over 20 kinds of edible flowers.

Photo: Courtesy of Little Wild Things Farm

“We are really excited to have more events and pop-ups, and give tours of our new space,” Ackley says. “It’s great to be able to set our roots down in a neighborhood and build our community even further.”

Ackley’s right-hand woman, “work wife” and director of operations Chelsea Barker says that she finds urban farming to be a fulfilling and challenging line of work and hopes others will follow suit.

“The challenge that we are most interested in solving is the idea that farming is an exciting and desirable profession for people who like problem-solving, hard work, relationship building and working with your hands,” says Barker, who joined Ackley in 2016. “It really can be a win-win when urban farming is a texture of urban life.”

A similar philosophy and approach to urban farming is found at Cultivate the City, another for-profit commercial farm working to promote urban agriculture by creating more jobs and keeping profit within the neighborhood. Cultivate the City founder and CEO Niraj Ray found his love of gardening while living in Florida, then brought his hobby back to DC at his job with the EPA where he created a rooftop garden.

He eventually decided to quit his day job to pursue his true passion, and so far, it’s been working out great.

In 2016, Cultivate the City installed an expansive rooftop garden at Nationals Park, where they grow produce and leafy greens for food services and dining in the Delta Club.

Along with produce the chefs specifically ask for like squash, tomatoes and herbs, Ray likes to mix it up and surprise them with unique produce every season.

Cultivate the City also has a rooftop garden location on H Street where they grow a variety of unique crops indigenous to other regions

for both restaurants and members of the public. For Pansaari, an Indian restaurant in Dupont Circle, Ray grows curry leaf and bitter melon. For his CSA (community-supported agriculture program), he sends a variety of fresh vegetables, fruits and herbs every week for 30 weeks to subscribers. And for fun, Ray likes to push the limit of what he can grow in the northeastern United States. This season, he’s excited to announce a healthy crop of passion fruit, which is native to southern Brazil.

“I try to grow unique things that you can’t buy at the grocery store, so we’re able to provide a commodity through what we’re growing,” he says. “It’s unique produce that you can’t find anywhere else, and it has a good story behind it.”

Along with tending to their own rooftop gardens, Cultivate the City offers plant management and garden build contracts for restaurants. At Calabash Tea & Tonic in Shaw, Cultivate the City maintains a garden full of basil, lemon grass, lavender, rosemary and a variety of mints used in tea blends.

When Calabash opens its new storefront in Brookland this summer, it will have an exterior designed by Cultivate the City, featuring 20 planters built by students at IDEA Public Charter School, where Ray teaches a senior seminar and manages a garden club. He notes that one of Cultivate the City’s greatest missions is to work with students and other nonprofit organizations to foster a passion for urban agriculture in the next generation of farmers.

“We’re trying to promote urban agriculture and create more jobs and sustainability around it,” he says. “It’s great to teach people how to grow their own food, but we’re focusing on how they can create careers out of that by maintaining all of the green spaces that we’re creating.”

At Community Connections DC, the capital’s largest not-for-profit mental health agency, Cultivate the City provides horticulture therapy training to help youths with traumatic histories gain necessary career skills like team building and punctuality. Many of these students graduate from the program and find their first jobs with Cultivate the City at the urban farms located in the backyards of their group homes. Nearby restaurants buy produce from these group home farms, closing the loop and keeping money within the neighborhood.

“Not only is urban farming creating positive psychological and societal benefit and quantifiable economic return, but it’s had such unquantifiable environmental benefits as well,” he says. “You’re helping create wildlife quarters for the bees and monarch butterflies, you’re helping to promote more wildlife, and you’re mitigating storm water onsite.”

At Rooftop Roots, a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming the way people engage with their urban surroundings, environmental awareness and sustainability is a top priority. Founder Thomas Schneider says that based on its three-pillar model of sustainability including economical, societal and environmental considerations, Rooftop Roots works to create jobs, build sustainable gardens and increase the availability to fresh produce to those who might not have access.

“We try to create these spaces as an experience where people feel like they’re not only having a great garden, but they’re also giving back to the community,” Schneider says. “People are certainly taking a greater interest in their health and nutrition. I think growing food is a really powerful experience in terms of how people understand the connection between the life that they’re living and how small actions can play a big part in helping not only the environment but also the society that we live in.”

As organizations like Little Wild Things Farm, Cultivate the City and Rooftop Roots work to spread awareness on how people can use their urban and suburban landscapes to help the environment and their local communities, the urban agriculture movement is becoming more than just a trend – it’s transforming into a sustainable lifestyle.

Find microgreens from Little Wild Things Farm at the Dupont Circle Farmer’s Market once a month, and sign up for any of these organization’s CSA programs at their websites below.

Cultivate the City: www.cultivatethecity.com Little Wild Things: www.littlewildthingsfarm.com Rooftop Roots: www.rooftoproots.org

www.ontaponline.com | JUNE 2018 | On Tap

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Beer Garde

By Alex Thompson s the sun finally shows its face in the District and the temperature begins to rise, everyone is taking to the streets in search of ways to enjoy the sunshine and quench their thirst in the process. And with the area’s brewing game steadily growing (80-plus local breweries and counting across the DMV), it’s no surprise that beer gardens have become popular gathering spots.

“People want to be outside in the city,” says Ryan Roller, general manager at The Brig. “It goes to show when there’s one weekend in January when it’s 60 degrees and we have people calling to make sure we’re open; we’re open year-round.”

Since opening in 2016 in the thriving Capitol Riverfront neighborhood, The Brig has become a local favorite. The massive outdoor beer garden serves up a variety of 23 brews on tap – along with a Tito’s cocktail available this summer – and is able to seat over 200 and nearly 300 standing outdoors (think an entire section of Nationals Stadium!)

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“With beer gardens, as long as you offer something for everyone, they are going to work,” Roller says, noting that he tries to keep beers on tap for everyone’s palate, whether they are looking for a light lager, traditional IPA or testing the waters with something stronger.

“I’ve got this delicious, unfiltered, raspberry sour IPA that literally pours pink out of the tap, and people see that pink coming out and they’re like, ‘Wow!’” Over on Georgia Avenue, entering Midlands Beer Garden feels much like an escape, with a welcoming outdoor space of communal picnic tables and wooden trellises decorated with lighting to take you away from city life for awhile.

On any given evening or weekend, you can find groups gathered to enjoy one of the 22 beers on draft, including a fair share of local brews, East Coast favorites, and German and Belgian varieties. A limited menu serves up giant pretzels and sandwiches, including a tasty bánh mì, but guests are also welcome to bring in their own food or order delivery.

The popularity of beer gardens in an urban environment like the DMV can also be attributed to the neighborhood feel they provide.

Over in the Arlington neighborhood of Rosslyn, Continental Beer

den Season Photo: Courtesy of Continental Beer Garden

Garden does exactly this, with a large open space of high communal tables, lounge chairs and patio sofas along with bocce courts, creating a fun, recreational outlet among the high-rises and busy street traffic.

“We often heard that Rosslyn was missing an outdoor space,” says Katie Smith, Continental’s general manager. “A term I’ve heard is a third place – not a home or work – but another place that people will spend a lot of time. Our vibe is so relaxed even though it’s in the middle of so much activity. We’re an oasis that’s around the corner versus having to travel to enjoy being outdoors.”

Open seasonally when the temps rise above 60 degrees, Continental offers up German Weihenstephaner beers, as well as local craft varieties. A colorful mural by artist Jason Woodside brightens up the outdoor space, while lights strung around create a warm ambiance for when the sun goes down.

Also located in Arlington, Westover Market and Beer Garden is another outdoor beer drinking location to check out. Westover opened in 2009, and happens to be the DC area’s first-ever beer garden. While the market is renowned for its in-house butcher and incredible beer selection, the outdoor garden space has grown in popularity for its unique personality and neighborhood vibe.

The gated stone patio has several picnic tables, surrounded by lush green trees and plants, with live music when the weather prevails.

During the summertime, they also offer up tasty barbecue along with burgers and sandwiches, all utilizing local, grass-fed meats. Be sure to chase it down with the variety of beers offered in the garden, including a highly recommended (and refreshing!) mango white ale for the summertime.

Learn more about these area beer gardens below. Cheers!

The Brig: 1007 8th St. SE, DC www.thebrigdc.com Continental Beer Garden: 1901 Fort Myer Dr. Arlington, VA www.continentalpoollounge.com Midlands Beer Garden: 3333 Georgia Ave. NW, DC www.midlandsdc.com Westover Market and Beer Garden: 5863 Washington Blvd.

Arlington, VA; www.westovermarketbeergarden.com www.ontaponline.com | JUNE 2018 | ON TAP

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iews of grand monuments, quirky rowhouses and historic streets make Washington’s outdoor bars endlessly alluring. This summer, there’s a new crop of rooftop and patio watering holes to explore across the city, each perched high above the hustle and bustle. And it’s not just the view that makes them worthwhile – several of the city’s best outdoor spaces also feature excellent cocktail programs. Here are six new spots to check out this season.

Calico Calico’s urban backyard is proof you can create an oasis right in the middle of one of DC’s hottest neighborhoods.

“We’re this hidden escape in the middle of Blagden Alley,” says Calico’s co-founder, Greg Algie, whose secluded bar opened in the fall of 2017.

Now that the warm weather is here, Algie says to expect a new slate of summer activities, including cookout-style meals and outdoor fitness classes like yoga and pilates on weekends. A selection of frozen cocktails will join the bar’s popular (and dangerously crushable) “adult” juice pouches.

In addition to drinks, Calico’s chef Nathan Beauchamp is turning out some nostalgic comfort food like Philly-style tomato pie and the Italian-style Blagden hoagie.

50 Blagden Alley, NW, DC; www.calicodc.com

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of Cortez

By Travis Mitchell

Colada Shop Colada Shop’s new rooftop garden has made it even easier to get into the spirit of Cuba and the Caribbean. The space is designed to appeal to groups large and small, and is open for everything from morning coffee to evening drinks.

“We really wanted the rooftop to just look fresh and lighthearted, really taking inspiration from Little Havana,” says Mario Monte, Colada’s food and beverage director.

The rooftop cocktail menu has a tropical inspiration that’s entirely separate from the downstairs café. Highlights include a few variations of pouched cocktails (they’re calling them Havana Sippers) along with pitchers of mojitos and sparkling pineapple sangria.

Swing by on Thursdays throughout the summer for special “Havana Night” deals of $6 cocktails and $2 empanadas paired with Caribbean tunes from 4 p.m. to close. Monte also expects to use these evenings as a way to experiment with some new menu items.

1405 T St. NW, DC; www.coladashop.com

Cortez Baja-style fare and drinks are the go-to items at Cortez in Shaw. The colorful Mexican bar and rooftop opened in March and offers views of the colorful rowhouses and businesses of the surrounding streets.

“It’s really meant to be a transformational experience for the guests,” says owner Ryan Seelbach. “It’s a very relaxed but lively atmosphere – a playful atmosphere – on our rooftop.”

The drink menu at Cortez includes classic and passionfruit margaritas along with choices like a pineapple daiquiri, a twist on a Paloma and more. There’s also a frozen margarita available exclusively on the rooftop. Food focuses on lighter options, all made in-house, such as fish tacos, chips and salsa, and street corn. Cortez offers rotating happy hour specials from 5-7 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, and a $10 beertequila-and-taco special Friday and Saturday nights after 10 p.m.

1905 9th St. NW, DC; www.cortezbardc.com

s e i r r e B GO

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of Fix Bar

Fix Bar at Morris Inside, Morris American Bar is a seated-only lounge for enjoying expertly made craft cocktails. But for a more casual experience, grab one of the refreshing, crushed ice “fix” drinks from its new patio, aptly named the Fix Bar. “A fix is a nontraditional sour cocktail served under crushed ice,” says owner and mixologist David Strauss. “It’s one acid, one sweetener, one spirit – that’s it. It’s one of my favorite categories of classic cocktails.”

The Fix Bar is dog-friendly and encourages standing and mingling with your friends and neighbors. The cocktails are expected to rotate through the year and include items like a Bourbon Honey and a Bramble with gin, lemon and blackberry.

1020 7th St. NW, DC; www.morrisbardc.com

Truxton Inn Despite its name, there are no rooms available for the night at Truxton Inn. Rather, this Bloomingdale neighborhood spot deals in riffs on classic cocktails in a comfortable lounge atmosphere. The year-old bar unveiled its patio earlier this spring, nearly doubling its capacity.

“Much like all of us, I’m glad we’ve got some outdoor space so we can enjoy the weather after that whirlwind of a winter,” says Brian Nixon, Truxton’s bar manager.

Nixon recommends sipping on the Delano in a White Suit, a combination of bourbon, Giffard Abricot du Rousillon, simple syrup and lime. Truxton Inn plans to roll out a tiki-inspired menu later this summer, and that should make the patio all the more welcoming.

251 Florida Ave. NW, DC; www.truxtoninndc.com

Photos: Cristina O’Connell

Whiskey Charlie

At the grand opening celebration of Signature at Reston Town Center, guests enjoyed complimentary fare, craft beer, live jazz music and local art presented by the Greater Reston Arts Center.

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Located on the top of District Wharf’s new Canopy Hotel, Whiskey Charlie offers a panoramic bird’s eye view of DC from the Capitol dome all the way to the Tidal Basin and Arlington. The vista at this Wharf destination rivals any in the city – though that’s far from the bar’s only attraction.

“We also have a really eclectic, approachable drink menu that has something for just about everyone,” says lead bartender Donnavon Lalputan. “Come for the sunset, stay for the drinks!”

House cocktails include the WC Mainstay, made with whiskey, amaretto, lemon, sugar and egg white. With summer approaching, Lalputan recommends the Sundress Season, which mixes crema de mezcal, habanero tequila, grapefruit juice, demerara, lime juice and a splash of soda. The bar also serves a selection of savory snacks and finger foods like crab cakes, short rib sliders, warm soft pretzels, and a cheese and meat plate.

975 7th St. SW, DC; www.whiskeycharliewharf.com

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BEHIND THE BAR

By M.K. Koszycki

Celebrate warm weather this June with boozy treats by the water. This month’s roundup will keep you hydrated no matter what neighborhood you find yourself enjoying the sunshine in, so read on for our top picks.

Photos: M.K. Koszycki

Chris Sollom

Darlin Kulla

On Tap: Your slush cocktails were in high demand last summer. What makes them so popular?

Chris Sollom: We use fresh ingredients – fresh coconut water, fresh coconut milk. It has the typical sweetness that people think of with slushes, but I think it takes people by surprise how refreshing and boozy they are.

On Tap: Whiskey seems to be the liquor of choice on your menu.

What’s your top whiskey-based drink to enjoy now that warmer weather is upon us?

Darlin Kulla: We are a Southern-inspired restaurant, so bourbon is our big draw. We carry over 100 different whiskies. We love the Belle’s Punch, which is one of our most popular drinks. It has mango-infused vodka and a little bourbon, plus ginger and peach. We finish with bubbles. You get the booze, but also sweetness and spice from the ginger and the peach.

It’s a refreshing, easy drink.

Bartender, Hummingbird

Beverage Director, Succotash

OT: Based on last summer’s popularity, are you making any changes to your slush menu offerings?

CS: We have two different slushes this year: the frozen aperol spritz and a Painkiller, which is similar to a piña colada, except it includes fresh orange juice for a bit of a different twist.

OT: What’s your top food pick to enjoy while sitting outside sipping on a slush?

CS: The crab cakes are phenomenal. They’re all jumbo lump crabmeat from right here in Maryland. We’re also bringing softshell crabs back when they’re in season. The octopus is great as well.

OT: What drinks do you recommend behind the slush?

CS: I created a drink called Thinking of Summer. It’s a draft cocktail similar to a rum punch. It has coconut rum, dark rum, light rum, passion fruit, orange juice and cranberry, and it’s on draft, which puts CO2 through it for a bit of a different taste. We’ll have that on draft all summer long.

Hummingbird: 220 S. Union St. Alexandria, VA; www.hummingbirdva.net

Thinking of Summer Lemon Cranberry Passion fruit Orange juice Coconut, dark and light rum

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OT: You offer four distinct flight selections, some showcasing local ryes and even a collaboration with Maker’s Mark. Tell me more about these curated selections.

DK: We went with a really bold, spicy flavor profile, and finished with a French cuvée for our Maker’s Mark Private Select. Maker’s Mark is usually one of the first bourbons people will try. It’s really interesting to try different iterations alongside the tastes we are going for.

OT: What beer selections do you suggest at Succotash?

DK: We carry different seasonal selections, things that are really bright and citrusy for summer. The one beer we [offer] in both of our locations is a rye beer, which has a hop backbone to it in addition to that rye bitterness. It’s very balanced, because our food is really bold and flavorful.

Succotash: 915 F St. NW, DC; www.succotashrestaurant.com

Belle’s Punch Mint Peach Ginger Bubbles Jim Beam bourbon Mango-infused vodka

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SPIKE your cocktail Photos: Aja Neal

JON ARROYO

Beverage Director, Farmers Fishers Bakers On Tap: What’s your favorite drink from Farmers’ extensive tiki menu?

Jon Arroyo: The Zombie is the king of tiki cocktails. I would suggest either the 1964 or the 1968. I would kick off your tiki experience that way!

OT: Many of your drinks are available in bowls, so what would you suggest as the best option to satisfy different palates?

JA: The scorpion [bowl], for sure. The cool thing about scorpions is that they can feed half a dozen people easily. Send out a of couple bowls to a party of 12, and that’s a great way to get a fast drink or quench your thirst while you’re waiting for your zombie.

ST. Elder rita 2 oz Silver Tequila 1 oz St. Elder .5 oz Fresh Lime Juice Shake all ingredients with ice & pour into a chilled glass and garnish with lime.

OT: How does using your own Founding Spirits liquor affect the recipes you put together for your menu?

JA: Our spirits are showcased along with some other projects I’ve worked on in the past. We have the amaro daiquiri and the negroni swizzle, just to keep these drinks in the fun vein of tiki. Every time I make a drink, it always goes back to, “Does this fare well with our food [and] our overall guest experience?”

OT: What do you offer beyond cocktails?

JA: We have a rosé that we call Our Virginia Vines. It’s a project that I work on closely with Ben Jordan of Early Mountain Vineyards in Virginia. We’re happy and very proud to be using a local vineyard to partner and produce this rosé with.

Farmers Fishers Bakers: 3000 K St. NW, DC; www.farmersfishersbakers.com

NEGRONI SWIZZLE

Swizzled and served in a tiki glass Lemon Campari Cinnamon Founding Farmers Gin Founding Spirits Arroyo’s “Never Bitter” Amaro

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For more recipe inspirations visit St-Elder.com | @DrinkStElder ©2018 Produced & Bottled By St. Elder, Ltd., BOSTON, MA. 20% Alc/Vol (40 Proof)

PLEASE ENJOY RESPONSIBLY.

By Trent Johnson

All What’s On Tap listings are provided by the venues hosting them.

Greetings, beer nerds! As you likely know, there are a number of fantastic spots in the DMV where you can grab a pint, and their menus are always evolving and adapting to your tastes. If you’d rather avoid the guessing game, check out what’s coming up at a few of these fine establishments.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 6

FRIDAY, JUNE 8 and JUNE 15

The Reverie Beer Dinner Join Rustico Ballston for an unforgettable evening of beer and food with their friends from Reverie Distribution. Taste featured beers from five different breweries from Reverie’s portfolio alongside a specially designed menu by chef de cuisine Stephen McRae. 7-9 p.m. Reservations are required. $55. Rustico Ballston: 4075 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA; www.rusticorestaurant.com

Brewmaster Tours Spend your evening like a brewmaster!

Admission includes an hour-long guided tour of the museum and a local craft beer tasting.

Receive one beer flight per person featuring 4-oz. pours of three local beers, and experience the Brewmaster’s Castle with a drink in your hand. This month, the tours will feature a special tasting of Aslin beer. Guests must be 21+ to attend. 5-6:30 p.m. $30. Heurich House Museum: 1307 New Hampshire Ave. NW, DC; www.heurichhouse.org

THURSDAY, JUNE 7 Beer and Board Games at Sugar Shack A little beer, a little sugar, classic board games and a few of your friends - it’s the perfect casual weeknight hang out every Thursday at Sugar Shack Arlington. On alternating Thursdays they’ll have a new craft brewery in house to talk beer and take over the three taps for two weeks. Flights, pints, beer glazed donut hole pairings and more. 4:30-9 p.m. Free to attend. Sugar Shack Donuts & Coffee: 1014 S. Glebe Rd. Arlington, VA; www.sugarshackdonuts.com

FRIDAY, JUNE 8 Lagunitas Beer Dinner Join Wildfire for a summer beer dinner when Wildfire’s executive chefs prepare a four-course custom menu paired with craft brews from Lagunitas Brewing Company. William Stanfield of Lagunitas Brewing Company will join as guest speaker for the evening. The dinner begins with a reception of passed appetizers and the first pairing at 6:30-8 p.m. $60. Wildfire at Tysons Galleria: 2001 International Dr. 3rd floor, McLean, VA; www.wildfirerestaurant.com/mclean Tinner Hill Blues, Brews & BBQ Block Party Join as Mad Fox closes the Market Square, fires-up the smoker and kicks-off Falls Church’s Tinner Hill Blues Festival with their inaugural Blues, Brews and BBQ Block Party. They will have live Blues music, great food and award-winning Mad Fox beer. 4-10 p.m. Outdoor Block Party ends at 10 p.m. but the restaurant will still be open for even more fun and beer. $7-$10 (beer and barbecue not included). Mad Fox Brewing Company: 444 West Broad St. Falls Church, VA; www.madfoxbrewing.com

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MONDAY, JUNE 11 Dynamic Duos Aslin and Southern Grist: 20 Rare Drafts ChurchKey welcomes Aslin Beer Company and Southern Grist Brewing to pour 20 different beers from the two incredible breweries. Rarely available in DC, Southern Grist has sent an unbelievable lineup of beers, including their collaboration with Aslin, Pushing Buttons. This Sour IPA was brewed with oranges, lemons, limes, lactose, vanilla and Jasmine tea. Not to be outdone, the friends at Aslin have sent a slew of specialties, including Cotton, an Imperial Pastry Stout finished with vanilla beans, cocoa nibs, coffee, coconut flakes, marshmallow and macadamia nuts. All Aslin and Southern Grist beers will be priced individually. 4-11 p.m. Free to attend. ChurchKey: 1337 14th St. NW, DC; www.churchkeydc.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 14 The Decadent Ales Showcase ChurchKey welcomes the fine folks from Decadent Ales with pours of seven hard-tofind beers from the upstate New York brewery and host founder Paul Pignataro. Located in Mamoraneck, New York, Decadent Ales is known for brewing juicy, hazy IPAs and rich, dessertinspired pastry stouts. Only recently available in the DC metro area, we can’t wait for you to taste these incredible beers. 4-11 p.m. There is no admission fee for this event. All Decadent beers will be priced individually by the glass and in 4-oz. tasting pours. ChurchKey: 1337 14th St. NW, DC; www.churchkeydc.com

The Power of Positive Drinking The Power of Positive Drinking is back with more great, free comedy featuring some of the best up-and-coming comedians in the DMV. All performers pair nicely with Port City Brewing Company’s delicious craft beer. They will be offering beer in pitchers, so you and your friends won’t miss the show. Doors at 6:30 p.m., event from 7-9 p.m. Port City Brewing Company: 3950 Wheeler Ave. Alexandria, VA; www.portcitybrewing.com

FRIDAY, JUNE 15 – SATURDAY, JUNE 16 Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival Get ready for two big days of beer sipping, bourbon tasting, music listening and barbecue eating. Your admission buys you a sampling glass so you can enjoy an all you can taste samplings of beer and bourbon. Some of the best barbecue vendors will be onsite if you get hungry, in addition to enjoyable seminars in the tasting theater and live music all day. Featuring 60-plus beers, 40 bourbons and tons of barbecue. 6-10 p.m. on Friday, 2-6 p.m. on Saturday. $45-$120. The Plateau: 300 Waterfront St. National Harbor, MD; www.beerandbourbon.com

SATURDAY, JUNE 16 Bluegrass and Crawfish Boil with Rare Craft Beers For those who haven’t experienced the fine tradition of a Southern Lowcountry boil, this is just the event for you. Join in the outdoor courtyard, where Rustico Ballston’s own chef de cuisine Stephen McRae will be serving up a feast of fresh Louisiana crawfish, Andouille sausage, corn on the cob and red potatoes. No crawfish boil is complete without a cold beer in-hand, so four Virginia breweries will be there to make sure your glasses don’t go empty. Enjoy everything from lawn games to live bluegrass performances from The Grandsons and Jonny Grave. 12-7 p.m.

Free to attend. Rustico Ballston: 4075 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA; www.rusticorestaurant.com Pedals ‘N’ Pints: June Short Ride Are you a bicyclist who loves beer and lives in the DMV? Be a part of Port City’s Pedals ‘N’ Pints June Short Ride. Come gather for coffee and donuts

GREAT TASTE LESS FILLING HOME RUN

©2018 MILLER BREWING CO., MILWAUKEE, WI Avg. analysis (12 fl. oz.): 96 cals, 3.2g carbs, <1g protein, 0g fat.

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before departing for a ride, then return to plentiful brews and The Big Cheese food truck. It will be a little more than a 10-mile route from the front door of the tasting room out to the park, up to Northern Virginia Community College (NVCC) and back. 10:45 a.m. - 12 p.m. Port City Brewing Company: 3950 Wheeler Ave. Alexandria, VA; www.portcitybrewing.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 21 Heavy Seas Beer Tasting Be the first to the fiesta with a tap takeover with Flying Dog Brewery. Each ticket grants you three different tastes, complimentary house-made chips and more. Additional beers can be purchased for $5 during happy hour until 7 p.m. After, draft beers are $7. 4-10 p.m.

Station Kitchen & Cocktails at The Embassy Row Hotel: 2015 Massachusetts Ave. NW, DC; www.destinationhotels.com/embassy-row-hotel

SATURDAY, JUNE 23 Beer 101 at Mad Fox Brewing Learn all about your favorite craft beers from production to taste characteristics at the Mad Fox Beer 101 class lead by CEO and executive brewer Bill Madden, who is a veteran of the brewing

with

Will Sullivan Cofounder, Supreme Core Cider

The story of Supreme Core Cider comes with cider love at first sight – or something close to that. After meeting on a message board and bonding over their adoration for niche cideries on the Left Coast, Will Sullivan and Kyle Crosby figured they’d bring the craft beer aesthetic with a twist to the District. After three years of hard work, architectural investigations and a ton of science experiments involving apples, Supreme Core Cider opened the doors to its taproom on May 12. Just weeks after they began welcoming cider diehards and neophytes into their Ivy City location, we caught up with Sullivan to discuss all things cider.

On Tap: How did you and Kyle meet? When did the idea of a cidery come up?

Will Sullivan: We actually met on a local cidermakers’ chat forum – basically, a place where weirdos hang out and make ciders, and talk recipes, equipment and procedures. I put it out there that I was going to start one in DC, and we started chatting and got together. He

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industry. The ticket price includes a brewery tour with a Q&A, a beer sampler handpicked by the brewers themselves, a discussion and a bar snack.

There are only 20 slots available for each class.

4-5:30 p.m. $15. Mad Fox Brewing: 444 W. Broad St. Falls Church, VA; www.madfoxbrewing.com It’s Raining Cats and Dogs: Derecho Party Celebrate the return of summer and Derecho Common with a party in the Port City parking lot and fundraiser for Friends of Puerto Rico. Port City has also invited Lost Dog and Cat Rescue Foundation to host a pet adoption from 2-4 p.m., so grab a pint and go home with a six-pack and a puppy (please only adopt a puppy if you have time and a loving home for them). Starting at 5 p.m., enjoy live music all night from Levi Stephens and Rabid Flash MoB and friends. Two food trucks will be onsite to satisfy your hunger, Rocklands BBQ and DC Slices. 12-10 p.m. Port City Brewing Company: 3950 Wheeler Ave. Alexandria, VA; www.portcitybrewing.com

MONDAY, JUNE 25 Nama’stay for Beer Roll out your mat on a deck overlooking the DC horizon for an exhilarating yoga experience under the beautiful sky. You will spend your first hour

moving and breathing mindfully in a vinyasa flow, then walk to the tasting room of Heritage Brewing Co. at Market Common for post-class libations. Meet on the top deck of the Fillmore St. Parking Garage (across from Heritage) by 6:45 p.m. to set up your mat. 6:45-8:30 p.m. Each ticket includes an all-levels yoga class and your first drink after class. BYO mat. $20-$25. Heritage Brewing Co. Market Common Brewpub & Roastery: 1300-1398 N. Fillmore St. Arlington, VA; www.heritagebrewing.com

SATURDAY, JUNE 30 Red, White & Brew Festival Show your patriotic colors while you kick back with friends, food, tunes and a sweet selection of reds, whites and brews. There’s no better way to raise a flag (and a toast) to Uncle Sam than by drinking in America’s fruits of the vine and amber waves of grain. Every ticket purchase gives you unlimited full pours of American beer, unlimited tastings of 100-plus wines, craft beers and ciders, plus access to area food trucks, a local artisan market, live music and entertainment all day.

1-9 p.m. (Session 1 from 1-4 p.m. and Session 2 from 6-9 p.m.) $29-$89. Akridge Lot at Buzzard Point: 1926 2nd St. SW, DC; www.rwbrewfest.com

ended up having a similar vision, and we had a good alignment there. We’re both craft beer guys at heart, and we wanted to approach cider like craft beer is approached. Our mission is [to use] available input to put out high-integrity, all-natural ciders. We try to source locally. We use real fruits, and our barrel programs are all from local producers.

OT: What do you mean by “real stuff” when it comes to cider?

WS: I’ll start by saying that the cideries we look up to are in the Pacific Northwest in Washington and Oregon, like 2 Towns Ciderhouse and Schilling Hard Cider. They come from a great craft beer culture, and they’re making really great products. Our goal is to hit the sweet spot and work with orchards throughout the season – be less like a winery and more like a brewery, in terms of how you feel when you’re inside and the palate we’re carving out.

OT: What can people expect from the drinks you offer? How did locals respond to your official opening?

WS: People really seemed to like it. We’ve been in the market since September, producing offsite while we waited for the taproom.

The fact that we’re hitting the market with something that just wasn’t here – people are excited about that. We’re not for you if you’re into super sweet, but we’re the guys who are making cider without a crazy reliability on sugar. We’ve participated in a bunch of events.

We did Snallygaster and different cider festivals.

Photo: Courtesy of Supreme Core Cider

We were involved in a big festival at Nats Park.

We do a ton of tastings to introduce people to our ciders, neighborhood by neighborhood.

OT: Now that you’ve accomplished opening the tap room, what’s next for you guys?

WS: Total and complete global domination [laughs]. We’re lucky to get in the market and interact with people. Our goal is to get people to our facility, and a big part of what we’re doing here is educational and cultural. We’re always going to have more than what’s on our website at the taproom. We want people to come and see our crazy experiments. Cider can be a cool beverage, but it can also anchor a culture like craft beer does.

Supreme Core Cider’s taproom is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 12-8 p.m. Follow them on social media at @supremecorecider.

Supreme Core Cider: 2406 T St. NE, DC 202-215-5029; www.supremecorecider.com

YOU ONLY LIVE ONCE, BUT IF YOU DO IT RIGHT ONCE IS ENOUGH. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; MAE WEST

CITY WINERY

By Tess Ankeny here’s no shortage of great wine or great music in DC. Recent years have seen a surge in the number of music venues showcasing artists of all genres, wine bars, Michelin-starred restaurants with stellar wine programs, and even wineries. City Winery, with locations in New York, Chicago, Nashville, Atlanta and Boston, is the latest hot venture to put down roots in DC, settling in Northeast’s Ivy City.

Michael Dorf

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“More than anything, what made me fall in love with Ivy City was the maker mentality in this area,” says City Winery Founder Michael Dorf. “There are three distilleries, a brewery, a fish market and a coffee roaster. It’s a food maker’s area with a specialty in alcoholic beverages. Adding a winemaker seemed like a natural fit for the area.”

Dorf, who has spent more than 20 years in the live music business, has always

Photo: Courtesy of City Winery

been a fan of wine, and has even had an opportunity to work harvest in California.

“I had such a fantastic experience participating in actual production,” he says.

“The full process made me realize that wine is a living, breathing thing. You can make connections from the vineyard all the way to the bottle. I wanted to try to incorporate that into a New York, urban winery.”

And from there, City Winery was born.

The opportunity to fuse a winery with a music venue felt like a natural fit to Dorf.

“Every time I was in a winery, I would think, ‘This would be a great location for a show.’”

Locals can expect to see artists from all over the globe headlining City Winery while enjoying international wines.

David Lecomte, a native of the Rhône Valley, has been with City Winery since its founding, and oversees the entire City Winery winemaking program. He’s worked at a number of esteemed wine estates throughout France, China and the U.S. Pascal Valadier will work with Lecomte and oversee winemaking operations in DC. “We have about 35 different vineyards under contact currently, and source about 400 to 500 tons of grapes annually,” Dorf says. “We love to think of ourselves as ‘terroirists.’ We have the luxury of going to where the best varieties are grown and thriving.”

Additionally, many of City Winery’s proprietary wines are available on tap.

“We may go through 1,500 glasses of wine on a busy night – that’s a truckload of bottles,” Dorf continues. “We’re proud of the green value of [the tap] service.”

Bob Schneider performs

Photo: Drake Sorey

Photos: Mike Kim

“We love the fact that we’re able to put together a wine list for our fans to explore all the terroirs of the globe.”

The 10th Annual National Harbor Food & Wine Festival on the waterfront featured world-renowned chefs, artisanal craftsmen and culinary pioneers, with thousands of DC area foodies in attendance.

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The styles of wines that Lecomte and his team make are meant to be fruit-forward and easy to drink, and account for about 50 percent of wine sales. Dorf says City Winery is making a lot of great wine, but as wine aficionados, he and his team know they can’t make that really old Barolo.

“We love the fact that we’re able to put together a wine list for our fans to explore all the terroirs of the globe.”

The wine program at City Winery’s DC location currently has a 500-bottle list, with plans to continue expanding – the New York location currently has over 1,200 labels. The goal is to have a wine to please every wine palate and budget, connoisseur or no.

City Winery has been opening in phases but is already proving to be an excellent addition to the rapidly expanding scene in Ivy City.

Concerts are already in full swing in the second floor’s music venue, and the Barrel Room restaurant on the first floor is slated to open this month. And last, but certainly not least, the third floor’s wine garden will open later this summer.

Whether you go for the music, food or wine – or a combination of all three – you’re sure to leave the venue already planning your next trip.

City Winery: 1350 Okie St. NE, DC; 202-250-2531 www.citywinery.com/washingtondc

CATCH GREAT LIVE MUSIC Before Every Friday Home Game!

2018

BUDWEISER MUSIC SERIES

6/8

7 Deadlies

6/22 Lloyd Dobler Effect 7/6

Justin Trawick & The Common Good

7/20 8/3 8/17 8/31

Lovely Rita Scott Kurt & Memphis 59 As If Hand Painted Swinger

9/7 The Reflex 9/21 Turtle Recall

Music @ 5:00 | Game @ 7:05 AN

PRODUCTION

Rock Music Brain Broke Royals with a

Local Band

By Trent Johnson

Photo: Ari Strauss

“He was building a studio and knew I was performing at coffee shops on campus, and he asked me to come in and work on some songs.”

Philip Basnight tells me this on a three-way call with the “he” he’s referring to: Colin Cross. The William & Mary alums came together to form the band Broke Royals during their collegiate years. The Virginia outfit has nothing to do with May’s British royal wedding, and no, we’re not writing a story about them to capitalize on the likely spiking SEO results from folks searching the term “royal” either.

We’re writing about these two fellas because, like a marriage between two overwhelmingly famous people, their union is working.

Only instead of producing Instagrammable photos and fashion hot takes, they’re creating local pop music.

“We have a lot of respect for each other,” Cross says. “We come at it from different angles. I come at it with experience and technical knowledge, and he has a nuanced musical knowledge. We’re always willing to try different things.”

Basnight got his start in music on the piano because his dad was the de facto music teacher for his neighborhood. The Broke Royals vocalist tells me he was easily the worst piano student his father had. A love of guitar came shortly after, and so did a reputation as the “music guy” at his high school.

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“I didn’t know how to talk about sports or anything like that,” Basnight says. “Anytime I met new people, I would try to shift the conversation toward music. Even if people don’t consider themselves music lovers, there’s always something under the surface, whether it’s nostalgia or just a fleeting feeling.”

Basnight discovered a kindred spirit in Cross. Before the two met, Cross had already lived the life of a touring musician, traversing the Midwest in a pop punk band. Though he enjoyed performing, he wanted to switch his focus to production.

“I settled down and moved out here to finish school,” Cross says.

“I learned a lot about studio work and had seen the workflow from a musician’s perspective, and I leaned toward that process. That’s when we started working together on technical stuff.”

By 2014, Cross had set up a studio and figured he’d need some demos to tout his production talents, so he enlisted fellow student Basnight. After recording a few songs, their chemistry and similar musical sensibilities were undeniable. The latter revolved around an adoration for pop and rock music, including stalwarts like David Bowie, Prince, Spoon and Wilco.

Over the past four years, Cross and Basnight have continued to concoct songs while establishing a consistent aesthetic.

thh

LIVE MUSIC

THE WHARF, SW DC DINER & BAR OPEN LATE!

JUNE CONCERTS SA 2 Photo: www.brokeroyals.com

Even if people don’t consider themselves music lovers, there’s always something under the surface, whether it’s nostalgia or just a fleeting feeling.

In photos, you’ll find the bandmates both dressed in white dress shirts tucked in neatly under black vests. Their music is sultry and smooth, sonically gathering from a multitude of influences and instrumentations.

“I think it’s really natural,” Basnight says. “We use Apple Music so we can see what the other is listening to. We want to use all the sounds that are exciting to us. We’re not trying to find weird things. These are the sonic influences we have in our day-to-day lives, and that’s what is exciting for us. It’s a fun guessing game to see where certain aspects come from. I think everything we do is an amalgamation of what we love.”

Because of their shared palates, they give each other the freedom to throw in any and everything they want to try before they strip away what doesn’t work. Last year, the duo released their first full-length LP, a self-titled work that seamlessly incorporated Basnight’s easygoing vocals and Cross’s production know-how. The two recorded the album in one short burst, tucked away in an upstate New York cabin.

“I wouldn’t call it closure, because when you get your album out is when the work starts,” Basnight says.

With music videos, singles and shows galore, the album only served to spark a chaotic season for Broke Royals, and the two seem to relish in this busy space.

“In the interim, we’re writing a ton of music,” Basnight says. “We are definitely in a recording period again.”

But don’t fret, they’re still playing live. Catch the band at AdMo’s Songbyrd Record Cafe and Music House on June 28 at 7 p.m.

Tickets are $10-$12. For more information on Broke Royals, visit www.brokeroyals.com.

Songbyrd Record Cafe and Music House: 2475 18th St. NW, DC 202-450-2917; www.songbyrddc.com

KAREN JONAS & THE LINEMEN w/ CARY HUDSON (BLUE MOUNTAIN) ADRIAN AND MEREDITH FREE AFTERNOON SHOW! 12pm DOORS

SU 3 TH 7

GOOSE FREE SHOW! AMY HELM w/ THE MAMMALS

F8 SA 9

KINGSLEY FLOOD

TH 14 F 15

w/ GLENN YODER AND THE WESTERN STATES & HUMBLE FIRE FEUFOLLET 3pm CAJUN DANCE PARTY! SAM LEWIS w/ THE COWARDS CHOIR SWING DANCE WITH FOGGY BOTTOM WHOMP STOMPERS FREE DANCE @ 8PM! BEN CAPLAN RUTHIE AND THE WRANGLERS

SA 16

ROOSEVELT COLLIER TRIO (JIMI MEETS FUNK)

SU 17 SU 17 W 20

ANACOSTIA DELTA BAND FREE AFTERNOON SHOW! 12:30pm DOORS MIKE AND THE MOONPIES EP JACKSON AND THE LAST WELL & CHRIS RATTIE AND THE NEW REBELS w/ MATT TARKA FREE SHOW!

TH 21

SUMMER SOULSTICE WITH: SOL ROOTS & THREE MAN SOUL MACHINE

F 22 SU 24

THE IGUANAS ERIC SCOTT FREE AFTERNOON SHOW 12pm DOORS

F 29

THE CALLING “WHEREVER YOU WILL GO”

SA 30

SETH GLIER w/ MARIELLE KRAFT

SU 10 TU 12 W 13

w/ ROBERT LIGHTHOUSE TRIO

w/ POCKET BELLS

JULY CONCERTS SA 7 TH 12 SA 14

JONNY GRAVE ALBUM RELEASE w/ LAUREN CALVE FY5 ELLIS DYSON AND THE SHAMBLES

FREE AFTERNOON SHOW! 12:30pm DOORS

TICKETS ON SALE! PEARLSTREETWAREHOUSE.COM www.ontaponline.com | JUNE 2018 | On Tap

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EELS'

MARK OLIVER EVERETT

RETURNS

FROM HIATUS

By Michael Coleman Photos: Gus Black

After a four-year hiatus from the record business, Eels frontman Mark Oliver Everett – known simply as “E” to fans – is ready to road test the tunes from his richly textured new album, The Deconstruction.

But while the eclectic indie pop singersongwriter feels good about the fresh songs, he wasn’t exactly brimming with bravado in an interview with On Tap in advance of his band’s June 12 date at Lincoln Theatre.

“Make no mistake, I never feel fully confident about anything,” Everett admitted.

After releasing 12 albums and touring consistently over the past two decades, the introspective multi-instrumentalist suddenly pushed pause on his career in 2014. The undefined break turned into a four-year respite punctuated with occasional flourishes of songwriting and recording.

“I didn’t even know I was making an album for most of those four years,” Everett said.

“My goal was just not to work at all. Once in awhile, if I was really inspired to write and record a song, I would. Then it might be six months before the next one.”

The result of that long, drawn-out creative process is the most well-curated, cohesive – and yes, confident – collection of songs that Oliver has ever assembled. “Bone Dry,” a hip-shaking but haunting rock tune about a difficult ex-lover serves as the record’s first single, while the title track finds Eels in swirling orchestral territory.

A loose collection of L.A. musicians known as The Deconstruction Orchestra and Choir

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weave gorgeous strings and harmonies throughout the electrified rock album. The overall effort is dedicated to Everett’s late dog, Bobby Jr., referred to as “our fallen brother” on the band’s website.

“From people I’ve been talking to, the response has been very positive,” Everett allowed of the new album. “I feel good so far.”

A Fairfax County native, Everett proclaimed DC among his favorite cities to play live shows – but not for the reasons you might think.

“I don’t have a lot of fond memories of [DC] because of all the tragedies and stuff that happened,” the longtime Los Angeles resident said. “But I love playing DC. It’s the only time I ever go back there. It’s always a good experience. I judge every city by the audience, and you always have nice audiences in DC.” The tragedies Everett referred to include the deaths of his emotionally remote father, a famous quantum physicist who worked at the Pentagon and died of heart failure when Everett was just 19; his beloved sister, who was troubled with mental illness and committed suicide in 1996; and his mother, who contracted lung cancer and died in the house he grew up in in 1998. Everett’s close cousin, a flight attendant, was on the plane that slammed into the Pentagon on 9/11, adding yet another layer of grief to his hometown memories.

Everett recounts these sad chapters in his life – as well as happier episodes – in his

highly personal and sometimes laugh-outloud funny memoir, Things the Grandchildren Should Know, released in 2009. Often sporting a dark beard and sunglasses, the musician has a reputation for sometimes being inscrutable in interviews. But he leaned into a question about how he keeps his music buoyant and life-affirming despite the emotional wreckage he’s had to deal with in his life.

“There was this big moment when all of these tragedies were happening, and I was back in my mom’s house in Virginia and was getting overwhelmed by it all,” Everett recalled. “I was just lying on my bed, and I saw a blue sky in my imagination. That crystallized it for me.

I was like, ‘Wait, there has to be a bright side to all of this, too. There has to be something healthy.’ And that was the birth of making the Electro-Shock Blues album 20 years ago.”

He added that he was lucky to have had that epiphany and has a very positive memory of making the 1998 album.

“It was the one great thing that was happening to me at the time because I was being super creative and making this new music that felt hopeful in the face of all these tragedies. It was like this warm blanket I wrapped myself in.”

That’s not to say life is all rainbows and unicorns for Everett now. He announced the release of The Deconstruction on the Eels’ website in April by proclaiming, “The world is a mess. This is just music.”

presents

FREE Outdoor Concert Series Live Bands Every Friday!

Old Town Herndon, 777 Lynn Street (behind the Herndon Municipal Center)

Food, Beer & Wine Available

6:30 - 10:30 pm

June

1 8 15 22 29

July

6 13 20 27

August

3 10 17 24

Herndon Festival (No Friday Night Live!)

Love Seed Mama Jump (Dewey Beach power house) GoodMan Fiske keeton (’90s alternative) Drop Dead Sexy Shane Gamble Band + Scott Kurt & Memphis 59 (country) Kristen & the Noise (Dewey Beach party band) Herr Metal (’80s hair metal) + Dr FU JunkFood The Reflex (’80s) Almost Journey (Journey tribute band) + South Bay Screaming Monkeys Social Call (guitar rock)

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For more information, visit www.HerndonRocks.com

ON TAP | JUNE 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

'' IT WAS THE ONE GREAT THING

THAT WAS HAPPENING TO ME AT THE TIME BECAUSE I WAS BEING SUPER CREATIVE & MAKING THIS NEW MUSIC THAT FELT HOPEFUL IN THE FACE OF ALL THESE TRAGEDIES. IT WAS LIKE THIS WARM BLANKET I WRAPPED MYSELF IN.'' While the world is indeed a mess – and U.S. affairs seem to be in a state of permanent upheaval under President Donald Trump – don’t expect Eels to go getting all political, not even for the politically savvy Washington audience he enjoys so much. As Everett sees it, politics is a minefield for musicians.

“I’ve always actively avoided [politics] as much as possible,” he explained. “John Lennon was a lot better at singing about his mother than empowering the people. There are exceptions and it can be very subtle and great like with Ray Davies (of the Kinks) doing ‘Shangri La’.

It’s beautiful when it happens, but it is so rare.”

Eels’ live shows have earned a reputation as freewheeling, even exuberant affairs that can involve audience interaction and onstage antics. But Everett has also been known to strip the live show down, allowing the music to take sole possession of the spotlight as he did on The Cautionary Tales of Mark Oliver Everett, the band’s last release and tour in 2014. He declined to give clues as to what fans can expect on the new tour.

“I wouldn’t want to say because that would take a lot of fun out of it,” Everett said, while acknowledging that “anything approaching a fervor” would be a welcome reaction.

“I’ve never had this long of a break between tours, so it’s simultaneously daunting and exciting,” he added. “I do feel very fortunate that I’ve been doing it as long as I have and that I have an audience. That’s just a very lucky thing.”

Catch Everett and Eels at Lincoln Theatre on Tuesday, June 12. Tickets are $40. Learn more about the band at www.eelstheband.com.

Lincoln Theatre: 1215 U St. NW, DC 202-888-0050; www.thelincolndc.com

v a l Sy n o s s E s g n Bri Emotional

Electronic to The

Pop Anthem

n

so

By Trent John

H

ave you ever heard of Sword & Sorcery?

No, probably not. At least I hadn’t until (squints at calendar) May 15. Even still, I somehow already knew the name of Sword & Sorcery characters integral to what Wikipedia describes as an “indie adventure video game.” The name of said characters are Sylvan Sprites, and the reason the name is familiar is because of the band Sylvan Esso.

“I just restarted [playing the game],” Nick Sanborn says, finally on the phone with me after multiple sliding doors caused a slight delay.

“I’m actually learning how to be a dungeon master for Dungeons & Dragons,” Amelia Meath chimes in. “It’s great to think about on tour. It helps you think about a bunch of scenarios.”

Sylvan Esso is the formation of this very power couple – Meath and Sanborn – based in Durham, North Carolina. After one listen through their music catalog,

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On Tap | JUNE 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

Photo: Shervin Lainez

the reason they bestowed a reference to a fantasy video game upon their band name becomes immediately apparent.

The sound is electronic at its base because of Sanborn’s background. His studio tinkering pulsates and radiates waves of energy, sometimes in the form of distorted beeps and boops, and also in ambient noises like a collage of what you’ll hear on a busy street. All of this builds to when Meath whispers, then bellows, and then whispers again, at once reminding you of the flesh and bones behind these intimate collections.

“I think the best part about it is [fantasy] can be anything you want it to be,” Sanborn says. “Really, it’s about storytelling and improvisation with a group of people. It’s really a specific skillset that is deeply creative.”

This approach is also an accurate description of how Sylvan Esso tackles music, as the creatives have enjoyed a lifetime of molding sounds. Meath grew up in a “singing family” in New England who did a ton of driving around, vocalizing whatever was on the radio. She also enjoyed singing

“I think the way you make music with each other is honest, because that’s the way you connect with those people. Bands are a reflection of the dynamic of those people. We’re always shooting for something that feels accurate.” in a sea shanty group titled The Rebels, who would perform music based on “whatever culture the director picked that year.”

For Sanborn, his love of all things electronic didn’t get kicking until he was just exiting high school. The Midwesterner was introduced to a range of works from England to Detroit, and simply put, they all resonated with the teenager.

“I didn’t want to go to college for performance, I wanted to go for composition,” Sanborn says. “This is a way that I could express my interest in composition, and it started slowly but never stopped growing.

Meath and Sanborn met in Milwaukee in 2013, and their musical chemistry was palpable and essentially immediate.

This like-mindedness was something each wanted to capitalize on. The two are also married, which lends itself to an extremely seamless dynamic.

“I think with anybody, there’s no way to extricate the two things,” Sanborn says. “I think the way you make music with each other is honest, because that’s the way you connect with those people.

Bands are a reflection of the dynamic of those people. We’re always shooting for something that feels accurate.”

Because of the constant communication between the two, every moment has the opportunity to be a songwriting moment – whether on the road in a bus roaming from state to state or in their home in Durham.

“There’s not really a formula,” Meath says. “Sometimes it’s me coming up with an idea, and sometimes I write a whole song. Our jobs are slowly becoming one job, because we’re always communicating.

It’s not like I have a stack of lyrics.”

The duo is currently on tour for their 2017 release, What Now, which according to Pitchfork “offers a biting, withering take on pop music, full of crisp humor while still finding real moments of tenderness.”

“It’s the hit song for the willfully ignorant.

There’s already that sort of conflict and tone.

These people are having a super joyous dance party through this torn up world.”

Photo: James Coreas

The two also released a recent postapocalyptic summer single, “PARA(w/m)E,” which is accompanied by an oxymoronic upbeat video, featuring Meath and other dancers wandering the scorched earth in

an offputtingly cheery manner.

“We wanted it to feel really happy, but for the lyrics to be really devastating at the same time,” Sanborn says. “It’s the hit song for the willfully ignorant. There’s already that sort of conflict and tone. These people are having a super joyous dance party through this torn up world.”

As for what now after What Now, the band is in a creative space, even bringing a studio rig with them on the road. Despite the yearning both have to create music, Meath says there’s no pressure to hurry another project out the door.

“We’re just starting to think about the next record, and it’s really fun to be in a creative space again,” Meath says.

Sanborn adds, “We don’t have prerecorded notions. The process itself is rewarding and cathartic, even if it’s nothing.”

Check out Sylvan Esso when they headline The Anthem on July 27. Tickets start at $40. For more information about the band, visit their website at www.sylvanesso.com and follow them on Twitter @SylvanEsso.

The Anthem: 901 Wharf St. SW, DC 202-888-0020; www.theanthemdc.com

Photo: James Coreas www.ontaponline.com | JUNE 2018 | On Tap

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By M.K. Koszycki and Michael Loria

TUESDAY, JUNE 5

Hop Along Genre-bending Philadelphia outfit Hop Along is led by Frances Quinlan, an incredibly gifted songwriter. She used the band’s most recent release Bark Your Head Off, Dog to meditate on finding her voice as an individual, which in turn lead to the four-person group finding their voice as a band. The band’s most musically stunning release to date also deals with timely themes like abuse of power, made even more impactful by Quinlan’s impossible-to-pindown vocal power. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $20.

9:30 Club: 815 V St. NW, DC; www.930.com

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 6

Francis and the Lights There are few better songs to wake up to than “Morning,” the album-opener off of Francis and the Lights’ 2017 record Just for Us. The piano that drives the song is so simple you imagine

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anyone in the house could play it, but there’s something about it that just makes you feel good. It’s like a lot of his other songs, they feel like they’re coming from an honest, if naive, place. It’s that quality, plus his production chops, that scored Francis so many collaboration credits, including with Chance The Rapper and Frank Ocean.

Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25. 9:30 Club: 815 V St. NW, DC; www.930.com

Horse Feathers I am thoroughly convinced there is no song better for staring at your ceiling and being sad to than “Curs in the Weeds.”

Horse Feathers manages to be sparse and lush at the same time, mostly due to the silvery slick vocals of frontman Justin Ringles paired with subtle string arrangements. Their latest album Appreciation adds some soul arrangements in the mix, keeping this hidden gem folk band’s catalog ever fresh. Doors at 6:30 p.m. Tickets start at $17.

Union Stage: 740 Water St. SW, DC: www.unionstage.com

ON TAP | JUNE 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

Yung Heazy Yung Heazy may not boast an extensive discography, (as of this writing, he has only three official tracks to his name, though his debut LP comes out June 1), but he does boast a good story. Yung Heazy got his start for love, not for love of music, but for love of a girl.

He uploaded the single “Cuz You’re My Girl” to SoundCloud on Valentine’s Day 2017 and it blew up. More songs followed and now he’s on tour. Doors are at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $10.

Songbyrd Music House and Record Cafe: 2475 18th St. NW, DC; www.songbyrddc.com

FRIDAY JUNE 8

Future Generations Future Generations’ breakout single “Stars” boasts 10 million plays on Spotify, proof that the band’s brand of piano pop is certainly something you’ll want to hit repeat on. Friends for seven years, the band surely does sound like they’re having tons of fun together. Their

second album is in the works, and will be produced by Justin Gerrish, who perhaps most famously worked with Vampire Weekend on their sophomore effort Contra. Be sure to see Future Generations before they’re similarly catapulted into second album stardom. Doors open at 9 p.m. Tickets start at $15. Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna, VA; www.jamminjava.com

Mykki Blanco Where to start with Mykki Blanco? He’s fearless. He got his start in music as a “teenage drag rapper.” I’ve never seen or heard anything like his music.

He’s published a book of poetry, From the Silence of Duchamp to the Noise of Boys. He lived for two years as a woman, though he didn’t surgically transition.

But that’s all categorical noise. Listen to his music, the production moves between lush and harsh, and lyrically he’s both heartfelt and outrageous.

Listen for the strings on “High School Never Ends,” listen for the beat on “Wavvy.” You can find videos for each on YouTube.

Doors are at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $25. Rock & Roll Hotel: 1353 H St. NE, DC; www.rockandrollhoteldc.com

SATURDAY JUNE 9

Belle and Sebastian If you’re feeling sinister, catch Belle and Sebastian’s return to DC at The Anthem. For a band that has been releasing music for almost as long as I have been alive, the Scottish twee legends show no signs of stopping additions to their impressive discography or touring schedule any time soon. I caught them at Merriweather Post Pavilion last summer and can attest to the fact that while there will be some new tunes, (the band just released a series of three EPs back to back) Stuart Murdoch and company still play a plethora of their heartfelt hits. You’ll be better for hearing “Piazza, New York Catcher” in person. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets start at $46. The Anthem: 901 Wharf St. SW, DC; www.theanthemdc.com

Kingman Island Bluegrass and Folk Festival The annual showcase of the best in local and national folk and bluegrass scene is back this year with featured artists like Gangstagrass, Jonny Grave, Cris Jacobs and Letitia VanSant. In addition to a stacked lineup, Kingman Island offers plenty of food trucks, crafts for sale and no shortage of the best up and coming local acts of the genre.

Gates open at 11:30 a.m. Tickets start at $35. Kingman Island: 575 Oklahoma Ave. NE, DC: www.kingmanislandbluegrass.info

SUNDAY, JUNE 10

Shamir No one has a voice like Shamir, and once you hear it, you’ll be hooked. It’s angelic and light as a feather. The young artist has a number of releases to his name. After his 2017 record Revelations, he’s already released two singles in 2018: “Room” and “Caballero.” The songs exhibit a strong indie rock influence and remind you that Shamir is not just a vocalist but also a guitar player. The tracks though, like so many of his songs, still feels married to pop, even he’s lyrically unto himself. Doors are at 7 p.m.

Tickets start at $25. Rock & Roll Hotel: 1353 H St. NE, DC; www.rockandrollhoteldc.com

Tunes in Tunes in The Triangle at Milian Park (MassTriangle Ave & 5th St.) The 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM 6:30 pm–8:30 pm

Jun 14: July Zach Carney • Thursday, 21:Cutler/Alison The Oxymorons at Milian Park (Mass Ave & 5th St.) Jun 28: Darcy Dawn • Tuesday, august 2: Alison Carney Jul 12: Pearlfor Special concertPebble and familyTo activities National Night Out at 5th & K Parking Lot

Jul 26: Jarreau Williams • Thursday, august 18: Justin Trawick Aug Park 7: Justin Trawick at Milian Stop Stop by bywith withyour yourfriendS, friendS, family, family, and and petS petSfor for free freeSummer Summer concertS concertS

mvtcid.org @MVTCiD

MONDAY, JUNE 11

Check out the fresh new look at

resh, new look! fwww.OnTapOnline.com La Luz Floating Features, the latest record from surf rock quartet La Luz, came out in mid-May. It’s their first since 2015’s Weirdo Shine. Their sound is similar; there’s still the chugging surf rock guitars and the doo wop harmonies, but you can tell there’s been a lot of development. The texture is richer and the progressions sweeter, but it’s in their lyrics that you can find the most development. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $13.

Songbyrd Music House and Record Cafe: 2475 18th St. NW, DC; www.songbyrddc.com

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TUESDAY JUNE 12

The Horrors Few bands can vacillate between the dark and brooding and the expansive and sparkling like this English outfit, and that’s what makes them so great.

They released another perfect marriage of dark and light with V last fall and are now hitting the states to promote it with their signature black suits, buckled Chelsea boots and all.

Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $25. Rock & Roll Hotel: 1353 H St. NE, DC; www.rockandrollhoteldc.com

Snail Mail Eighteen-year-old Lindsey Jordan has a well-deserved amount of buzz around her band Snail Mail. The youngest to ever sign to iconic label Matador Records, Jordan’s guitar chops and lyrical prowess are well beyond her years. This record release show will serve as a kickoff for the band’s heavily anticipated album Lush, and most likely mark what will be a long and successful career for the wildly talented Jordan.

Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $15. Black Cat: 1811 14th St. NW, DC; www.blackcatdc.com

Vance Joy No one could escape the permanence of Vance Joy’s earworm of a single “Riptide” upon its release in 2014. In fact,

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I heard it on the radio driving into work this morning. But as it turns out, the Australian singer-songwriter’s other songs are just as buzzworthy and his sophomore release Nation of Two was no exception. Be sure not to miss his joyous (pun absolutely intended) melodies and the opportunity to hear “Riptide” for the thousandth time. Tickets start at $55. The Anthem: 901 Wharf St. SW, DC; www.theanthemdc.com

a full-length record in 2018 after his recent signing to Run for Cover. Patrick’s lyrical explorations of love and longing will make for a beautiful singalong at his DC show this summer. Tickets start at $10.

Songbyrd Music House and Record Cafe: 2475 18th St. NW, DC; www.songbyrddc.com

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 13

Pianos Become the Teeth & The World Is a Beautiful Place and I Am No Longer Afraid to Die I had to read this lineup twice to be sure I was in for seeing not one but two incredible post-punk outfits in one night.

Pianos Become the Teeth found their footing with this year’s spectacular Wait For Love, and TWIABP (as fans lovingly call them) are something of an indie supergroup whose combination of orchestral sounds with emo lyrical sensibilities sets them apart in a league all their own.

Don’t miss your chance to see them both in one place. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets start at $17. Union Stage: 740 Water St. SW, DC: www.unionstage.com

FRIDAY, JUNE 15

Field Medic Kevin Patrick has fully embraced the home recording process as an authentic way of recording, which pairs beautifully with his sparse and honest lyrical style. His 2017 release is a collection of songs he recorded in a sunroom in San Francisco.

Patrick is expected to release

On Tap | JUNE 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

Middle Kids Even if you’ve never heard of Middle Kids, you’ve probably heard Middle Kids. The Australia natives have been garnering a quiet but strong buzz throughout the festival circuit and blogosphere throughout the past several years with radio ready jams like “Edge of Town.”

Their first full-length album solidified their place as indie rock strongholds in its heartfelt explorations of love, loss and life. Tickets are $15. Rock & Roll Hotel: 1353 H St. NE, DC; www.rockandrollhoteldc.com

SATURDAY, JUNE 16

Cold Cave Get ready for a darkwave dream at Black Cat – while Cold Cave are respected in their own right, they’re joined by genre greats Black Marble and Choir Boy. Cold Cave’s last full-length album was released in 2014, but they treated listeners to 18 minutes of bliss with this spring’s release of the You & Me & Infinity EP – maybe they’ll even debut some newer digs at this show. Anyone who’s into dancing and crying, specifically at the same time, can’t miss this gloriously goth lineup. Doors open at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $15. Black Cat: 1811 14th St. NW, DC; www.blackcatdc.com

FRIDAY, JUNE 8 SUNDAY, JUNE 17

DC JazzFest This citywide festival presents more than 90 bands and over 300 artists at 60 venues including Yards Park, the Kennedy Center, Howard Theatre and Nats Park, all capped by a two-day extravaganza at The Wharf. The conclusion will be something special, as the night will feature Leslie Odom Jr., (of Hamilton fame,) R+R=Now, (Robert Glasper’s latest supergroup which will features Terrance Martin, Derrick Hodge and Christian Scott, to name a few,) and Maceo Parker, who first came into the spotlight as the sax player for James Brown. Various show times, ticket prices and venues. DC JazzFest: www.dcjazzfest.org

SUNDAY, JUNE 17

Houndmouth If you’re looking for a raucous Saturday night that’s not just drinking at bars, look no further than a Houndmouth show.

The band made a splash with karaoke-worthy songs like “Sedona” and “Say It,” combining the lyrical sensibilities of folk with the instrumental prowess of garage rockers for an outcome that is equal parts fun and cathartic. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets are $30. 9:30 Club: 815 V St. NW, DC; www.930.com

Take Metrobus and Metrorail to the...

@DCJAZZFEST

JUNE 8 – 17, 2018 TICKETS ON SALE NOW

D C JA Z ZF E S T.O RG

HAMILTON STAR LESLIE ODOM JR. | R+R=NOW (A ROBERT GLASPER SUPERGROUP)

CHUCHO VALDÉS & GONZALO RUBALCABA | IVAN LINS & FRIENDS | MACEO PARKER

REGINA CARTER | CHRISTIAN SCOTT aTUNDE ADJUAH | BEN WILLIAMS | OLIVER LAKE PATRICIA BARBER TRIO | TERENCE BLANCHARD FEATURING THE E-COLLECTIVE

Delfeayo Marsalis | Terri Lyne Carrington: Celebrating Geri Allen | Frédéric Yonnet | Raul Midón | Edmar Castañeda & Grégoire Maret | Fabrizio Bosso | Jeff Parker | Jaimie Branch | Tia Fuller | Allan Harris: The Genius of Eddie Jefferson | Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra | AACM Special Ensemble Ancestral Memories | Washington Renaissance Orchestra Octet | Kris Funn & Cornerstore | Tribute to Keter Betts Melissa Andana | Roy Hargrove | Lisa Fischer | Michael Thomas Quintet | Allyn Johnson feat. Paul Carr Samuel Prather & Groove Orchestra | AMP Trio Featuring Tahira Clayton | Rochelle Rice | Mark G. Meadows Hess Is More | Todd Marcus | Esther Williams & Davey Yarborough | The Redd Brothers | Christie Dashiell Quartet w/C.V. Dashiell, III | Veronneau | Brian and Jessica Settles | Marshall Keys Soulful Path | The Jihye Lee Orchestra Baylor Project | Vocal Jam w/the Chris Grasso Quartet | Jo-Go Project | Herb Scott and Aaron Myers | Donvonte´ McCoy Shacara Rogers | Javier Moreno | Dupont Brass | Tom Teasley | Charmaine Michelle | Ka’Ba Soul Singer Liberation Project | Bill Cole’s Untempered | Three Fathers: Anthony Nelson Jr., Herman Burney, Nasar Abadey Jazz Academy Ensemble | DCJazzPrix Finalists | Robert Mwamba w/Cynda Williams | John Lamkin III Quartet Greg Hatza Organization | Leo Maximal Winds | WJAI Ensemble | Benito Gonzalez | Julia Nixon | Elijah Balbed Ola Onabule | Origem | Lena Seikaly | Paul Carr | Shannon Gunn | Janelle Gill | Udobi | Kenny Rittenhouse | Coy Fish Tyler Leak | The String Queens | Roosevelt Collier Trio | Herman Burney Trio | Akua Allrich | Reginald Cyntje | and more.

PRESENTING SPONSOR

PLATINUM SPONSORS

For artists and a complete schedule, visit DCJAZZFEST.ORG GOLD SPONSORS

SILVER SPONSORS

The DC Jazz Festival®, a 501(c)(3) non-profit service organization, and its programs are made possible, in part, with major grants from the Government of the District of Columbia, Muriel Bowser, Mayor; with awards from the National Endowment for the Arts, the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, an agency supported in part by the National Endowment for the Arts, the Office of Cable Television, Film, Music & Entertainment; and the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development; and, in part, by major funding from the Anne and Ronald Abramson Family Foundation, The Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation, Gillon Family Charitable Fund, Wells Fargo Foundation, The NEA Foundation, Venable Foundation, The Dallas Morse Coors Foundation for the Performing Arts, The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation, The Reva & David Logan Foundation, John Edward Fowler Memorial Foundation, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and the Mid-Atlantic Arts Foundation. ©2018 DC Jazz Festival. All rights reserved.

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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 20

Alexis Taylor Perhaps best known as the frontman of Hot Chip, Alexis Taylor’s most recent solo release was born of his love for playing to smaller audiences on his own.

Hot Chip fans will recognize Taylor’s distinct voice, but everything else about his music is totally unique from his iconic band. Not to worry though, it’s still extremely groovy, so come prepared with your dancing shoes. Doors open at 7 p.m. U Street Music Hall: 1115 U St. NW, DC: www.ustreetmusichall.com

Ray LaMontagne & Neko Case Both legends in their own right, Case and LaMontagne are teaming up for a night of flourishing folk at The Anthem.

Not only do you get to see two iconic musicians in one night, this show will also serve as the official kickoff to the inaugural run of Halcyon’s By The People Festival, an arts and dialogue festival “bringing people together around the themes of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” It’s a win-win for all involved. Doors at 6:30 p.m. Tickets start at $55. The Anthem: 901 Wharf St. SW, DC; www.theanthemdc.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 21

Yeek L.A. songwriter Yeek stands comfortably outside of any particular genre. His guitars

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smack of indie rock and Mac DeMarco slacker rock, but lyrically he’s closer to hip-hop.

And his latest release, 2018’s Blackheart EP, does even more to somehow evoke both genres at once. Hampton, Virginia native Marco McKinnis will open for Yeek. McKinnis doesn’t have a ton of material, but what he has is gorgeous, beautifully produced and rich R&B. Doors are at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $12.

DC9: 1940 9th St. NW, DC; www.dc9.club

MONDAY, JUNE 25

serpentwithfeet’ My first encounter with serpentwithfeet was actually in a Björk release called Blissing Me. The release contains two remixes of “Blissing Me,” a single off of the record Utopia. One version was a harp-only version of the track which, like much of album, was coproduced

by Arca. The other remix was done by serpentwithfeet, who added lyrics and beats. It’s a collaboration which feels seamless. serpentwithfeet’s almost improvisational style approach to melody is of a piece with Björk’s, and his voice is no less effortless. And like with Arca, after getting the Björk stamp of approval, I think serpentwithfeet’s certainly onto big things. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $12. DC9: 1940 9th St. NW, DC; www.dc9.club

TUESDAY, JUNE 26

Katie Von Schleicher “100 percent quality assurance, I have a degree in songwriting,” reads the Twitter

On Tap | JUNE 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

bio of Brooklyn-based singersongwriter Katie von Schleicher.

Her career got started when her internship turned into a record deal for Ba Da Bing! Records.

Von Schleicher’s tracks aren’t so light as label-mates Beirut, but they are deft. The sound hearkens back to the 70s, and the tone isn’t so dark as her record titles, Shitty Hits (2017) and Bleaksploitation (2015), might suggest. They’re more lo-fi pop than heart-heavy indie.

Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $10. DC9: 1940 9th St. NW, DC; www.dc9.club

We Are Scientists Synth pop heavy hitters We Are Scientists are back with a new album and tour, but I’m secretly hoping the show will read as more of a 10-year homage to 2008’s brilliant Brain Thrust Mastery. While I’m sure this isn’t the case, I can dream, and also dance along to certifiable bops like “Nobody Move, Nobody Get Hurt” and “After Hours.” Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets are $18. Rock & Roll Hotel: 1353 H St. NE, DC; www. rockandrollhoteldc.com

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 27

Sam Gellaitry Musical prodigies often seem to be reserved for classical music. There was Mozart and then there’s the kid who played jazz at the age of six.

But Sam Gellaitry is a prodigy in the electronic community.

The Scottish producer started making music at 12, dropped out of school to make music at 16 and now, at 21, he travels the world making music. His music is eclectic electronic. Some

samples evince a youth spent playing video games and other recall producers like Bonobo and Emancipator. It’s his use of vocal samples that makes his tracks stand out for me. Doors open at 9 p.m. Tickets are $15.

Flash: 645 Florida Ave. NW, DC; www.flashdc.com

TV Girl While TV Girl’s moniker is a little on the nose – I can’t help but think that most of their sound is so heavily drawn from 80s and 90s TV background music – their straightforward bordering on self-deprecating lyrics (see: “Hate Yourself”) keep them ever relatable. The band brands their music as “you can sing along to it, but I wouldn’t sing around your parents,” so it’s sure to be a good time. Tickets start at $15.

Black Cat: 1811 14th St. NW, DC; www.blackcatdc.com

SUNDAY, JULY 1

Oso Oso Oso Oso’s most recent release, The Yunahon Mixtape, is a beautiful, relatable callout to all the best aspects of early 2000s indie rock. Frontman Jade Lilitri borrows these sensibilities and makes them feel fresh for a new generation to rely on as an outlet for their feelings. The band brings their post-rock reinventions to Songbyrd early this July, fresh off of signing with Triple Crown Records after self-releasing The Yunahon Mixtape. There are big things in the future for this band – don’t miss out. Tickets start at $10.

Songbyrd Music House and Record Cafe: 2475 18th St. NW, DC; www.songbyrddc.com

SUMMER

ON SALE NOW! JOHN PRINE MARGO PRICE

THE TREE OF FORGIVENESS TOUR

JUN 1

CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE PRESENTS:

THE BEATLES WHITE ALBUM JAKE OWEN

WITH CHRIS JANSON JORDAN DAVIS

JUN 3

NILE RODGERS & CHIC CHAKA KHAN JUN 5

JUN 2

ALISON KRAUSS WITH

DAVID CROSBY AND FRIENDS JUN 6

BARRY MANILOW MICHAEL LINGTON JUN 8 + 9

HARRY CONNICK JR.

A NEW ORLEANS TRICENTENNIAL CELEBRATION

JUN 14

SING-A-LONG FITZ AND THE TANTRUMS X AMBASSADORS MIKKY EKKO

JUN 7

ROGER DALTREY PERFORMS THE WHO’S TOMMY JUN 10 + 12

SOUND OF MUSIC JUN 16

TONY BENNETT JUN 23

CHARLIE WILSON SHEILA E. JUN 24

MOTOWN THE MUSICAL JUN 26–28

BRUCE HORNSBY & THE NOISEMAKERS THE WOOD BROTHERS JUN 29

STEVEN TYLER AND THE LOVING MARY BAND THE SISTERHOOD BAND

JUN 21

DR. DOG MANCHESTER ORCHESTRA CRITICAL EQUATION TOUR

(SANDY) ALEX G

JUN 22

REBA McENTIRE JUL 1