Washington, DC New Menu Report: 08/12/15

Summer Whitford|

Maybe it's because this is a city whose residents work at the crack of dawn and into the wee hours, but we are definitely crazy about brunch and breakfast. Few cities have as many working breakfasts as we do, and we take our eggs and mimosas seriously. Every week, one or two restaurants either start offering brunch or change their brunch menu and in several weeks, you'll be able to get a Mediterranean lamb and egg eye opener at DCA. Thankfully, we have plenty of pie to inject some levity, and of course a steady supply of liquid courage.

Cava Grill
Next time you're hoping a plane out of town and want a healthy breakfast option, consider the new breakfast menu at Cava Grill at Reagan National Airport. Yes, this fast casual eatery is more known for its Mediterranean lunch and dinner fare, but later this month they will launch breakfast at their soon-to-open DCA airport spot. On offer will be egg, lamb bowls, and an irresistible Greek yogurt bar that includes house made granola, roasted fruit, and other goodies.

Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab
If you are a fan of summertime berries, you will definitely want to sample this month's #PieItForward selection, Mostly Raspberry Pie, at Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab. It's a mouthwatering mix of mostly raspberry along with blackberries and blueberries topped with a buttery almond oat streusel served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. All through August, one dollar from every slice sold is donated to Martha's Table, a local charity dedicated to increasing access to healthy starts, healthy eating, and healthy connections in the District. 

Quill
Movie buffs in the mood for nostalgia will love the Indiana Jones-inspired cocktail Quill at The Jefferson Hotel is serving for the month of August. The signature cocktail, The Shia Labeouf, is named for the actor who played Indiana Jones' newly discovered son in The Kingdom of the Crystal Skull. Made with gin, La Gitana Manzanilla Sherry, freshly muddled green apples, dragon fruit, Chartreuse, and celery bitters. This drink is as unpredictable as its namesake and its sweet tart notes are a surprise on the palate, like the first bite of a crisp Granny Smith apple.

TICO
If you're a brunch-obsessed food-lover (and you know who you are), then you'll want to check out TICO, one of D.C.'s latest brunch specialists. In addition to a fab menu, the entire months of August and September they're offering a "Funday" menu for weekend brunch at the bar and communal table. You can take advantage of discounted cocktails, beer, and other specials drinks from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Here are some the drinks we think you should try:

  • Bloody Chancho-bacon-infused reposado tequila, homemade bloody' Mary mix, "tico"rashi rim ($8)
  • Negra Modelo ($5)
  • Papa Made Bail: pisco, pineapple, lemon, chili ($6)
  • Rosé Sangria-dry rosé,  citrus, pisco, passion tea ($6)

Summer Whitford is the D.C. City Guide Editor at The Daily Meal and the DC Wine Examiner. You can follow her on Twitter @FoodandWineDiva.

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