DC Dining Guide: March Essentials



• Also reopening for food service in the next week or so, another Metrocurean favorite, Bar Pilar. The 14th Street spot has been partially closed for construction to add a second floor. I've missed Justin Bittner's cooking...
• José Andrés' new food truck Pepe launched today, dishing out Spanish-style sandwiches. Check out the menu on Eater, and follow Pepe @pepefoodtruck.
• Been to check out Adams Morgans' new Mintwood Place yet? I love the vibe and I'm developing an addiction to the fat, crunchy maple pork rinds.
• 2941's new casual menu and relaxed vibe means dishes like the "Daffy" burger, a juicy duck patty topped with a super thin sliver of foie gras and onion agrodolce. How have I never had a duck burger before? Delicious.


• Maybe the Irish have this month's drinking holiday cornered, but being the Scotch/Irish mutt that I am, it makes sense to seek out Port City Brewing Co.'s limited release Tartan Ale (at left) for spring sipping. Get the Scottish ale at Port City's tasting room and select stores and bars.


• Another Top Chef'er expanding his restaurant portfolio, Bryan Voltaggio swings back toward the District with Range, slated to open in the Chevy Chase Pavilion this fall. The 275-seat restaurant will focus on meat, highlighting lesser-used cuts, and will also offer a bakery and retail.
• When the historic Howard Theatre (at right) reopens in April, celeb NYC chef Marcus Samuelsson will be consulting on the brunch and dinner menus and appointing the head chef. The space will function like a supper club, and for standing-room-only shows, a streamlined menu will be offered. Sunday gospel brunches will start in mid-April.
