April 30, 2009

Deacon Exclusive: 'Bliss'-ful Job Offerings at the W Hotel


Deacon knows that the economy is troubling to many of his loyal readers. So he's making it his paw-licy to let them know about fabulous jobs available in the DC area.

This lovely notice is from our good friend Barbara Martin. More than 200 job openings are available at the soon-to-open W hotel (in the former Hotel Washington space). The hotel will feature a BLISS Spa (the area's first) as well as a Jean-Georges restaurant, the J&G steakhouse.

See below for deets.

What: Bliss Spa Hiring Spree at the W Hotel Talent Center

When: Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, May 3-5, 10-6 pm each day

Where: W Hotel Talent Center, 3307 M Street NW in Georgetown (the former Staples space). The W Talent Center, designed to look (and even smell!) exactly like the W, is the hiring center for the W Hotel, Bliss Spa and Jean-George restaurant, J&G Steakhouse, that will all be opening this summer at 515 15th Street, NW; the new W will be the closest hotel to the White House.

How: The talent team will be hiring for 30+ Bliss Spa jobs including licensed estheticians, massage therapists and nail technicians as well as guest service associates and spa attendants. Applicants must have valid license with them for positions that require (all but spa reception); on the spot interviews will be conducted!

This hiring program is in addition to the 200+ jobs that the W is hiring for the hotel and restaurant, ranging from mid-level “talent coaches”, Welcome and Whatever/Whenever and several F&B positions for J&G and destination rooftop bar, wine bar, and living room bar and banquets. Applicants that bring significant Wow with them need apply.

In Case You Missed It: World Cocktail Week Party at Proof


This morning's JuliB had a sneak preview of the World Cocktail Week dinner at Proof. Despite the indulgent $145 per person price tag, the end result is very reasonable - five courses and ten (count 'em) cocktails, each prepared by the area's best mixologists. Let's face it - one of each drink would run more than the total meal tab. RSVP soon, space is limited.

April 28, 2009

Deacon Exclusive: Your One-Stop Shop For Mother's Day

If there's one person Deacon loves, it's his mom. So naturally, that means that Mother's Day is a holiday FILLED with pampering.

We've sourced the best area spa deals and compiled a comprehensive gift guide worthy of any leading lady. And if you're looking to take her to brunch, treat her to a weekend away, or buy her flowers, we'll direct you over to The Washingtonian for a comprehensive listing of the best area specials.

Good luck!

Mark Your Calendars: DC Yoga Week

Don't miss your chance for free or deeply discounted yoga classes during the annual DC Yoga Week, starting May 2. Some of our favorite area studios are offering special workshops, newbie classes and even one of our favorite events, Yoga on the Mall, taking place May 9 from 2-5 PM.

We did this last year, and had tons of fun - several area instructors come in to teach beginner and intermediate level classes. It's a great way to try out different studios and to do yoga outside.

Let us know which classes you're planning to attend, or if you have a favorite studio you think we should try!

April 27, 2009

In Case You Missed It: Update Your Pad Without a Palatial Budget


Want to get a home makeover? We interviewed Dennese Guadalupe-Rojas of Interiors By Design and IA Ect. and got tips on updating your apartment without killing your budget.

Luxe Life: Spa at the Still Point (Mother's Day Deals)

Deacon had another fabulous facial yesterday with Sara at The Still Point, our new favorite local spa. Not only are we hooked on their organic treatments, but we've been spending a fortune in their gift boutique, purchasing items like Sensatia moisturizer (which just got rave reviews in DailyCandy), Kimberly Sayer cleansers and toners (you saw them in JuliB this month) and now Skinny Skinny soaps, Combat Ready Balm, Kosmo Slim coffee and even organic shampoo for our tender-scalped roommate.

It's a spot we'd wholeheartedly reccommend sending mom to for Mother's Day. Book a facial with Sara (see specials below), a mani/pedi with Maria (who used to work for the Mandarin Oriental) or a massage with Fanny, who bears the distinction of having worked not only for some of the world's best spas, but who has acted as on-call massesuse for celebs like P. Diddy, or whatever name he's going by today.

April 23, 2009

You're Invited: Ball on the Mall

You're Invited: Preggatinis Book Launch at Firefly


Whether you're expecting or just trying to cut back on the booze, don't miss this exciting book launch from fabulous blogger Natalie Bovis-Nelsen, author of The Liquid Muse. Enjoy signature preggatinis and get tips on how to throw the ultimate baby shower.

Mark Your Calendars: Sample Sale Heaven - Huge Designer Sale Sunday

Deacon just received some pretty cool information about a NYC-based sample sale company heading to DC for one week only. Given the bombs that others have been, we were tempted to ignore - until we saw that this sale actually promises GREAT designer brands like Dior, Cavalli and Blumarine.

So if you're around on Sunday, don't miss the chance to stop by Club Halo (we've never heard of it, but hey - it's holding a sale, how bad can it be) between 1 and 5 for your chance to score designer bargains.

Also, if you mention DAILYCANDY you can get in at noon ... just note - the sale is CASH ONLY so don't forget to stop by an ATM first!

You're Invited: RachelleCeline Trunk Show at Hysteria

April 22, 2009

Deacon Exclusive:Marie Claire Subscription Giveaway

As you may know, Deacon, among other things, is a ShopItToMe.com Trendsetter, responsible for helping spread the word about great shopping deals and style secrets in DC.

To honor the finale (airing 4/26) of Running In Heels, the Stylista-like series that follows the lives of Marie Claire interns, the site is giving away five free subscriptions to the mag.

Entering is easy - just post a response to their posting below listing what you think is the greatest office fashion faux-pas you can think of. Being Washingtonians, we're sure you can think of several!!

The winners will be announced on May 1, and we'll for sure post them here on DDC as well as on the Trendsetter site.

April 21, 2009

Deacon Does Boston - Part II - The Food, The Fun and of course, The Spa

All that shopping sure did make us hungry, and our fabulous friends pointed us in the right directions to find meal after fabulous meal.

The Food!
We didn't try all of the restaurants in the area by half, but the ones we did sample were delish. Here were a few of our faves:
  • Fig (Beacon Hill) - awesome pizza by Todd English. This meal made us sad that his plans for CHA in the Donovan House fell through. Be sure to order his signature balsamic and fig pizza with prosciutto and blue cheese.
  • Seiyo (South End)- wish DC had more great neighborhood sushi spots like this one, which combines reasonably priced and super-fresh rolls with a small wine shop.
  • Flour Bakery (South End) - we've been told that everyone who visits Boston should try this famed sandwich and bakery shop, known for their amazing sticky buns. It's true. They're THAT good.
  • The Beehive (South End) - Saturday night featured cocktails and cuisine at this jazz bar/speakeasy in the South End. Don't miss the house-made frites or the suprisingly large grilled cheese with shortribs. To drink, we sampled the "Cougar," a mixture of vodka, lychee liqueur, orange bitters and champagne. Now if we could only find a bar in DC who could recreate this ... calling Derek Brown at The Gibson!!
Next time we return (soon, hopefully), we've got the following marked in our datebooks:
  • Sibling Rivalry - Two chefs, one spot. Each night features two menus and dueling chefs battling it out once per week. Despite the kitschy theme, the restaurant looks first-class.
  • BanQ - Located in, you guessed it, an old bank, this spot looked cool as can be from the peeks we got of the interior ... rumor has it that it has a reputation to match. Oh yeah, and the interior architecture looks JUST LIKE the Maya Lin wood exhibits at the Corcoran. Can you say amazing?
  • Minibar - This new bar is supposed to be an "it" spot for cocktails and the see n' be seen crowd.
  • Sushi Teq - In the Intercontinetnal. This tiny spot combines our two favorite things- sushi and tequila. No telling if it's any good, but the concept is first-rate!!
The Fun
Of course, we watched the 113th Boston Marathon, which took place on Monday, aka "Patriots Day." We had the good fortune off watching the race with several former competitors, which was quite fun. Sadly, we didn't get to see our good friend (and host's boyfriend) Shane, compete in the first leg of the race, where he contributed by running with a blind competitor.

Meg, our host, lives in a lovely brownstone in the charming South End and just so happens to have a fab yoga studio on her first level. We took our first yoga class Monday night Sadhana Yoga, which has been voted a Boston "best" several times. Glenn, the instructor, was knowledgable and quite nice. Despite being our first experience with heat and our longest class ever (two hours!) it was a great experience. Print a coupon off of the site and your first class is even free!

The Spa!


Lucky for us, our visit coincided with Spa Week, so we booked appointments at the new Intercontinental, where we indulged with 50-minute signature massages. Brenda, my therapist and 20 year massage veteran, performed a sensationally relaxing rubdown and managed to target muscles through a masterful blend of classic Swedish and movement techniques on a heated and mobile bed. The post-massage sauna and rain showers added a nice touch. If only we'd been there early enough to use the small, yet well-equipped gym...

There were a few kinks, most of which we attributed to Spa Week's business and the fact that we came on a weekend (semi-unfriendly service, a crowded changing area, and less than spotless shower stalls).

Sleep!
For those looking to book rooms, the Intercontinental looked lovely and is located right on the water. It's a bit far from shopping and sightseeing, but a cab can rectify that pretty easily. For something more centrally located, we'd recommend the new-ish Mandarin Oriental, or the TAJ Boston, which is right on Newbury Street. Nine Zero looks quite nice too, and there's always one of our favorite brands, Kimpton, which boasts an Onyx Hotel in the area too.

You're Invited: Happy Birthday to Ginger!

Deacon can't believe it's been a year already- how time flies!!

In Case You Missed It: 30 (Spa) Treatments Worth Your Time and Money

Deacon was hard at work all winter long on this package for May's Washingtonian magazine, on newsstands now.

Want to know what spa treatments are still worth your hard earned dollars? We were rubbed, exfoliated, waxed and mani/pedi-ed within an inch of our lives ... just to ensure you get your money's worth.

Yes, it's a hard life.

Deacon Does Boston - The Shopping

Everyone needs a getaway weekend at least once in awhile, so this weekend, Deacon skipped town and headed north to Boston, where it just so happens that we found a college roommate and a town teeming with visitors in for the famed Boston marathon.

Four days later, there's lots to report. We explored town up and down until our feet ached, and have finally named Deacon's own 'Best of Boston' guide. If you're searching for the real thing, look over on Boston Magazine's website - it's apparently a big deal.

The guide is coming along slowly, so we'll start with the most important - SHOPPING!!

Four Days. Four 'Hoods. Top Three Picks For Each.

Conventional rules of wisdom say that you've got to spend at least some time on Newbury Street, Boston's main shopping drag, which is in many ways quite similar to what you'd find in Georgetown.
  • Dress for a shop you wish was your own closet, packed with 3.1 Philip Lim, Adam, Vena Cava and more
  • Oak for an Etsy-like selection of handmade goodies that's worth perusing time and time again
  • Louis Boston for the coolest store you've ever seen (housed in an old museum), packed with home goods, art and designer duds you probably can't afford by the likes of Marni and Etro
Next, stroll through the Commons to hit the Beacon Hill area (so darn cute!). Don't miss:
  • French Dressing for those times when what's underneath is just as important
  • The Beauty Mark for a well-edited cosmetics selection, sweet staff, and a much-desired mini mani-pedi area
  • North River Outfitters for prepster style by the likes of Lily Pulitzer and Vineyard Vines
We perused Cambridge, and thought it was a snooze-fest. The best of the bunch?
  • Tess & Carlos for super-expensive yet we're-not-sure-why-because-it-just-looks-like-a-plain-white-tee finds
  • Passport for a well-edited selection of stylish clothes and accessories
  • Mint Julep for your standard boutique-y fare by the likes of Milly and Shoshanna
Closer to home base, we loved the quaint little shops tucked between bakeries and markets in the South End, where we found the likes of:
  • Hudson for a covetable selection of home goods and decor items, plus a cool wall covered in old-time letters and photos
  • Looc for what Boston Mag voted Best New Boutique in 2008, featuring names like Thread Social
  • Tadpole for adorable kids merch - we wish there was a baby coming for a friend of ours!!

April 20, 2009

In Other News: A 'Deacon' on The District Dish!

Congratulations to one of Deacon's good friends and fellow Wake Forest alums J.W. Crump, who appeared on a recent episode of the web-based television show The District Dish, hosted by our buddies Kate, Pamela and Ebong to plug the upcoming TV series, "The Gym," which he is currently taping in DC.

See the clip here - we're super excited for the show to air and cheer on J.W. as he pursuses his acting and writing career.

Also a big shout out to Laura Carlson, another good friend and guest host for this week. You go, girl!

Mark Your Calendars: Shop with CityShopGirl and Labels for Love at Bloomies - NOW FULL, NEW EVENT MAY 7!!






Thursday, you'll find the city's most stylish at Bloomingdale's Chevy Chase for an evening of shopping, cocktails and fun hosted by Labels for Love (the charity that brings you DISTRICT SAMPLE SALE) and the fab site CityShopGirl.com.


From 6-9 PM, enjoy exclusive Friends and Family savings of more than 20 percent as well as comps nibbles from restaurant partners Kitchen, Lebanese Taverna, The Georgetown Bagelry and Lia’s. The sips will be from Absolut Vodka, Barefoot Wine & Bubbly and Glacéau.


In support of the Labels for Love cause, Bloomingdales will donate 10 percent of the evening's purchases to Labels for Love and its supported charities.


Who can resist shopping for such a good cause?

April 17, 2009

You're Invited: French Market and Georgetown House Tour (Today and Tomorrow!)

Deacon may be out of town, but that doesn't mean that DC stops without him. Today and tomorrow, don't miss the annual French Market, taking place today and tomorrow from 11 am to 6 pm.


Over 30 boutiques are participating in this fest, which offers saving up to 70 percent off designer goods, art and antique home furnishings. This incredible spring sidewalk sale draws visitors to enjoy a day filled with shopping, music and food.

In addition to the neighborhood festivities, the House Tour has offered Washingtonians and visitors a glimpse into some of the most charming and beautiful homes in the nation’s capital.

French will take place in Bookhill, located on upper Wisconsin Avenue, NW, between P Street and Reservoir Road. For more information, http://www.georgetowndc.com/ has the full scoop.

Happy Shopping!!

Image from PJPress.com.

Luxe Life: Does Your Mom Have Style? Win $1000 from South Moon Under

Deacon knows he has the most stylish mom in town - but just in case you think you've got us beat, here's a cool contest from South Moon Under where you can win $1,000 for describing your mother-daughter style.

Luxe Life: A Sweet Proposal


Some may say that cupcakes are so 2008, but Deacon says that a sweet treat never really goes out of style.

So when Jon Mervis of Mervis Diamonds sent us this decadent cupcake yesterday, we decided it was definitely worth posting about.

They're calling it the world's first-ever diamond cupcake (although Couture Cupcakes, formerly with Tiny Jewel Box, might have them beat). This baby boasts $30k worth of diamonds and was created in prep for the store's wedding rinkg trunk show, to take place on May 1 &2. An appropriate date - May 1 is our mom and dad's wedding anniversary.


It's a joint creation of Mervis Diamond Importers and Classic Bakery, in Rockville. The photos are taken by Labor of Love Photography.

And, of course, since Deacon is a very Type A dog, the details of our own nuptuials have been pretty much figured out. Marriage to take place here, bridesmaid dresses here, and flowers like this.

You're Invited: Cookie Johnson Personal Appearance at Nordstrom

For all those basketball fans out there, Cookie Johnson (Magic Johnson’s wife) is making an appearance at the Nordstrom in Tysons Corner this Saturday, April 18 from 1:00-4:00 p.m.

For all those big-bootied girls (myself included) this event is a must-attend. She's debuting her new collaboration with Rich & Skinny, called CJ by Cookie Johnson. The line is meant for those of us who have great bodies and work out regularly, but can’t fit into the slim, low cut jeans that are out there.

Hallelujah!

In Other News: Spotting Cougars


In completely unrelated news (Deacon is a DOG, not a cat) ... this funny article details how and where to spot Cougars. Of all places, Zola is mentioned as a spot in DC. Haven't really seen many cougars at this bar, although spots like Cafe Milano and often, L2 (for the male version, whatever the heck that is called) come to mind.

The show looks pretty funny, however.

What do you think?

Image from MichiganCougar.com.

April 16, 2009

In Other News: Deacon Goes to Boston (And Wants Your Help!!)


Deacon's off to Boston for the weekend! If you've got suggestions about things that need to be sniffed out, please leave them in the comments below or e-mail deacondoesdc@gmail.com - we'd love your suggestions!!

In Case You Missed It: This Month's Fashion & Beauty Picks


We've got the scoop on all that's haute in the fashion and beauty world, via JuliB.com.

April 15, 2009

Luxe Life: Gussy up an Old Tee Shirt with Anthropologie


In celebration of Earth Day, Anthropologie is hosting a workshop on how to re-work your old tee shirts into a fashionable new find. It's sustainable and reccessionista friendly - two things we love. The workshops will take place at the Georgetown location on April 22 from 5-8 PM and in the Annapolis shop on April 23 from 5 - 8 PM.

Lest they let you go without some new purchases, however, they've partnered with Edun, one of their great designers, to debut a super cute new "bee tee" made of 100% organic cotton. At $68, it's a bit pricey, but definitely would look great with a cute pair of flip flops and boyfriend jeans.

Deacon Exclusive: Secret Sale Tonight at Betsey Johnson


Get it while the shopping's good!

Mark Your Calendars: Shape Seminar from TERRA at Darlington House

Deacon is always complaining that while Washingtonians may be getting more stylish, many don't know the first thing about dressing for their shape. Thanks to Oriana Khatso at one of our fave shops, Terra, things are about to change. She's hosting a free seminar APRIL 28 at the Darlington House about how to be frugal, fashionable, and well-fitted ...all at the same time. It's a must-attend for anyone looking to update their wardrobe this season.

April 14, 2009

In Case You Missed It: New Frugal Fashionista - Statement Earrings for Spring

This edition of Frugal Fashionista finds Dekan DC blogger Meg Zatko searching for stylish statement earrings for spring. It's probably one of our favorites to date - hats off (or earrings on, as the case may be) to her!

April 13, 2009

You're Invited: Happy 5th Birthday to WINK


One of our favorite boutiques is turning five, and our friend Makeda is throwing them a party. Come and check it out!

April 12, 2009

You're Invited: Agressively Chic Trunk Show


One of our fave Annapolis boutiques, Bailey's Maryland Avenue, is bringing her signature preptastic style for a one-night-only trunk show in DC. Don't miss this chance to stock up on goodies for Gold Cup and more.

Also more details via the Facebook invite.

April 9, 2009

Happy Easter!

Deacon's off to the beach for the holiday, but not without a little present. Here's a clip from our favorite kid's movie of all time, The Easter Bunny Is Comin' To Town, narrated by Fred Astaire.

Coveting ... MCM


Deacon was so excited when the "it" bag of the 80s, MCM, made its resurgence last summer at shops like Intermix and Bloomies. But the new patterns were just so strange - the lions and blacks and reds seemed way harsh, almost like bad knockoffs of Gwen Stefani's uber-cute L.A.M.B. line.

Today, we were walking through Bloomies on our way to lunch and mentioned how much we'd like the vintage style to make a comeback. After all, it would be a great excuse to raid mom's closet. She always has the best bags, and we know there are at least a few MCM's in there. Plus, their "1900" scent (wish that would come back!) has been her signature since we were little.

Our wish was granted - the new spring line features vintage-looking prints!

Check them out - which one is your fave? The "Viestos" is our pick.

April 8, 2009

Deacon Exclusive: Skincare Internship Opportunity at Alchimie Forever

Attention College-Age Deacon Fans (we're sure a few of you are out there:

Swiss skincare line Alchimie Forever is looking for summer interns in their DC office, conveniently located just above Georgetown and accessible from the Foggy Bottom metro.

The girls are looking for someone to start on June 1 and work through August.

Pay and/or college credit is TBD.

This sounds like an awesome opportunity to get in on the ground level of a high-powered skincare brand and get some experience typically only found in spots like New York.

If you're interested, e-mail Rachel Johnson, rachel@alchimie-forever.com to apply. Good luck!

Coveting ... Decollete Pump


Shoe-gasms. Just tried them on at Neimans and they're a STEAL at $595. Now to justify not eating for a month (to afford the shoes, and rent ...)

See 'em bigger, here.

Don't Forget: Louboutin Sale on Gilt Groupe is at NOON TODAY


Don't forget that today is the Christian Louboutin Trunk Show on Gilt Groupe! It starts at noon eastern, and we'll be waiting eagerly at the computer.

If you need an invite code, click here.

Say Yum: New Nando's Peri Peri opens on 18th Street


If you haven't had the chance to experience the spicy goodness that is Nando's Peri Peri, stop reading right now and head to the car. Their delectable Afro-Portuguese chicken has some sort of secret blend of spices that literally renders us hungry at any hour we pass the shop.

A second location (the first US location of this international chain is in Chinatown) is opening today in Dupont Circle at 1210 18th St., NW.

If you're a fan of peruvian chicken, this is just as delightful, but with the addition of a spicy kick that comes from Peri-Peri, a spice passed down through generations in both Portugal and Africa. The Peri-Peri chili pepper was discovered by Portuguese explorers – who loved its dynamic and powerful flavor - in Mozambique hundreds of years ago. There's really no adequate words to describe how good this chicken is - check it out for yourself.

Deacon Exclusive: Easter Egg Hunt For Clothes SATURDAY at Farinellis

Deacon popped into Farinelli's this afternoon to chat it up with Mauro Farinelli about what's happening in his chic Clarendon shop. This former Denim Bar partner and well-known "jean god" of DC chatted style and dished about some of the great lines he has in stock.

We'd like this, this and this please.

But he also shared something awesome - this SATURDAY starting at NOON (running till 3) he's hosting an Easter Egg Hunt at his Clarendon shop. There will be 100 eggs in LULULEMON, FARINELLI'S AND BEST CELLARS. That's 33 in each, and 34 in Farinelli's. (Change from previous, which noted Mauro would hide eggs in Market Common - darn corporate regulations got in the way!)

Anyone can partipate in the "hunt," which will include eggs featuring everything from candy and dollar bills to coupons to Farinelli's, and neighboring shops like Lululemon and Best Cellars.

Best deal? Each store will have one "Golden Egg" featuring a grand prize (Farinelli's is offering $300), plus two silver eggs, each worth a slightly smaller prize.

Here's how it works: The eggs will be numbered and have to be returned to the store so that people can claim their prizes if need be. You're welcome to "hunt" right away, or pop into the store for a free Farinelli's bag to store your swag. Just remember, you can't start until noon, and there's a brief rule briefing when the event begins!

More questions? Tweet him at twitter.com/shopfarinelli or e-mail deacondoesdc@gmail.com and we'll pass along the question.

April 7, 2009

Mark Your Calendars: It's Gold Cup Time

It's that time of year again....

The question isn't so much who you're going with (we'd naturally recommend The Capital Club if you don't already have plans) but what you're wearing. Look forward to some fashion-y posts coming soon.

In Case You Missed It: April's Guide, via JuliB


There are some FABULOUS events going on this month, so don't miss the JuliB.com guide.

Oldie But A Goodie: Top Spas in NoVA

Deacon's been digging hard to find the best spas in the area for upcoming pieces in both Northern Virginia Magazine and The Washingtonian. After all, spring is all about renewal - it's time to get hair free for bikini season, fix up the skin, and work out those kinks from bending and stretching during spring cleaning.

We promise only two more weeks of waiting for our new spa packages, but in the meantime, don't miss this extensive overview from last May's Northern Virginia Magazine. It's got some great ideas for mom - and remember, Mother's Day is only a month away, so make those rezzies now!

In Case You Misssed It: Exclusive April Shopping Deals

You don't want to miss these great shopping deals, available for Washingtonian readers this month only. We're really loving these pages, offering exclusive offers up to 25 percent off some of the area's hottest stores, like Urban Chic, Ginger and more.

April 6, 2009

In Case You Missed It: Bachelors and Spinsters at CTC

Deacon politely reviewed Bachelors and Spinsters on Washingtonian.com this morning. Things we neglected to mention in the more prominent write up:

1) The women who wore more casual long dresses looked great. The women who donned full-on ball gowns looked like idiots.
2) Most of the gentlemen present seemed perfectly nice. However, the crowd of age 6o+ gentlemen reminded us of our grandparents. We were especially creeped by one old guy who cornered us to brag about how he'd been a guest at this "exclusive" event for several years and how hard it was to get on the invite list. Um, we're both here, aren't we? He also suggested that we move our gigantic cocktail ring (an obscenely huge fake diamond) to another finger so that "we appeared single." Thank you, but no - it's on that finger to prevent weirdos like you from talking to us.
3) Aforementioned creepy old men staring at young girls on the dance floor.
4) The upstairs singer was quite good, but the music she was performing made us want to jump off of the terrace, not dance on it.
5) The auction room was literally about 90 degrees.

April 3, 2009

Say Yum: Butcher's Block by RW Now Open

After much anticipation, The Butcher’s Block, a Market by RW, next door to sister restaurants BRABO Tasting Room and BRABO by Robert Wiedmaier is finally open.

The Butcher’s Block, a Market by RW promises a chef-driven market with a wide selection of value wines, international beers, artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, prime cut meats, desserts, dry goods and home cooking accessories.

Vicente Wolf, the same architect who designed the adjacent Lorien Hotel, selected white and black mosaic tile flooring, bright blue subway wall tiles behind the display counters and an eye catching wine display that covers a wall with single-bottle accessibility. A stainless steel swivel-mirror demonstration table completes this appealing shop for gourmands.


In addition to the charcuterie, pates, sausages and terrines, The Butcher’s Block, a Market by RW sells prime cuts of rib-eye, fillet, lamb tenderloin, veal chops, pork loin, rabbit and chicken. Chef Wiedmaier sources much of his meat from the region, and he offers braised lamb shank, pork and beef carbonnade that can be purchased with his signature sauces to be heated and served at home.


For the more serious home cooks, Chef Wiedmaier and Chef de Cuisine, Chris Watson, will offer culinary demonstrations, starting later this spring, showing patrons how to break-down, clean and filet the whole animal. The demonstrations are free and the dates will be posted in the market for interested parties.

“I’m really excited about sharing my full-circle philosophy that cooking with the entire animal achieves optimum flavor. By learning how all
animal parts can be used for the meat, stocks and terrines, home chefs can double the value of their efforts by enhancing the flavor and stretching the dollar,” says Wiedmaier.


The dedicated wine wall features more than 60 wines, 75 percent of which are priced under $25 a bottle. Featured wine regions include France and California, as well as other international varietals and Virginia wines. Customers can also buy Belgian, French, German and American beer in six-packs or large, 750ml format bottles.



The Butcher’s Block, a Market by RW is located at 1600 King Street in Alexandria, Virginia, adjacent to new Lorien Hotel & Spa, a Kimpton Hotel. Open daily from 11:30 AM to 7:30 PM.

Luxe Life: The Early Girl Gets the Scarf at Luna

Just passing these along! Also as an FYI, I've heard rumors of bad service at Luna recently, but have had nothing but pleasant experiences shopping. This boutique gets little press, but their lines are cute and the location is oh-so convenient if you live in MD. Enjoy!

Say Yum: Redwood Offers Chocolate Fantasy Easter Brunch

The Easter bunny hopping into town marks the true start of spring - something Deacon loves, and not just because he's a rabbit chaser. There's a slew of great Easter brunch options, but one of the coolest has popped up at Bethesda's Redwood, where guests are treated to a $38,four-course menu including dishes like Made-to-Order Apple Cider Doughnut Holes served with hot apple cider and tossed in apple sugar; Wild Asparagus & Crab Salad with mixed greens and lemon hollandaise; Glazed Black Forest Ham with sweet potato puree and pan juices as well as Rotisserie Prime Rib with two fried eggs,home fries and blue cheese cream.

For dessert, Redwood has partnered with Cacao, Fine European Chocolates, a locally owned chocolate and pastry shop also in Bethesda Row, for a gourmet chocolate buffet in the center of the restaurant. If you haven't sampled their chocolates yet, you're in for a real treat.

If you're in the mood to imbibe at brunch, there's even a cocktail on the menu for you - for $9 each, sip an Easter Cream a combo of Godiva® chocolate liqueur, Frangelico, Bailey’s Irish Cream, crème de Cacao and half and half or a Velveteen Rabbit made with Stoli Orange, strawberry liqueur, peach schnapps as well as a combination of fresh carrot and orange juices.

7121 Bethesda Lane. (301) 656-5515; www.redwoodbethesda.com.

NOTE: Redwood is a featured partner of DeaconDoesDC.com.

Luxe Life: SpEGGtacular Sale at The Pink Palm

There are Lilly Lovers and Lilly Haters, but Deacon falls into the former category.

Get your pink n' green fill at up to 30% off this weekend during the Easter sale at McLean shop The Pink Palm - it's really only about 10 minutes from Arlington and full of super cuter merch for both men and women.

Luxe Life: Outerwear Sale at Treat

April showers bring May flowers, ostensibly. But those same showers also bring sales - at least in the case of TREAT, offering 25 percent off all outerwear till April 11th.



In Case You Missed It: Design Spotlight with Suzanne Somersall

Deacon had the opportunity to sit down yesterday with Suzanne Allis, the force behind local jewelery line Suzanne Somersall designs, for a spotlight on Washingtonian.com. Not only is she talented, but Allis is without a doubt one of the nicest women we've had the chance to meet in a long time. We chatted all about her jewelery and our mutual interests (we both have S.O.'s in the military and love to shop) and her plans for the future. Deacon forsees some custom jewels in his future, as well :-)

We wish this lovely lady all the best - be sure to check out her web site for more info - www.suzannesomersall.com.

April 1, 2009

Say Yum: Murky Coffee No More

While looking up the Murky Coffee address to firm up a business meeting, Deacon stumbled upon this morning's news - not sure if it's a totally bad thing, as the fab Liberty Tavern will be using the space and Murky will be actually moving to the city (so darn inconvenient) but still ... it's sad - we loved this space and have had many a good cappuccino there. Read the news, repasted from MurkyCoffee.com, below: (Sadly, we don't think this is an April Fool's joke)

Letter to our customers

April 1, 2009

Dear valued customer,

It's with great sadness that I announce that in a few weeks, murky coffee will be relocating from here in Clarendon to a new location in Washington DC.

The property here at 3211 Wilson Boulevard was sold last year, and market rent is simply more than we can afford.

In the coming months, I hope that you'll join us in welcoming a new coffee shop here, brought by the talented folks at the renown "Liberty Tavern" just up the street. They'll be bringing their years of experience, a full renovation of the building, and top-quality service. We are proud to call them our friends, and plan to support them in setting up their coffee program. That said, we ask that you'll join us in welcoming and supporting them.

Our new home (at 5th & H Streets NW, two blocks east of the Chinatown Gate) will be a brand-new shop (called "Wrecking Ball Coffee") in a new neighborhood. While we're excited at new possibilities, leaving Clarendon isn't going to be easy. We've made many friends here, and we're very sad to leave. All of us here at murky are heartbroken about this move, so please be sensitive to our feelings during the transition.

We've been honored to be a place for you to visit over the last four years--especially our regular customers, but also those who we see less frequently.

Thanks for your friendship, love, and patronage. In so many ways, our customers have inspired us to work harder at providing you the best coffee experience we can, and for that, we cannot than you enough.

We hope that you'll be sure to visit us at our upcoming location. Dates for this move are yet to be specifically determined, but renovations will begin soon, starting with the upstairs.
I welcome your questions or comments: nickcho@murkycoffee.com

Sincerely,
Nick

Say Yum: $1 Dishes at Sweetgreen - No April Foolin'


In honor of their newDupont Circle location, sweetgreen is dishing out $1 salads, wraps, and sweetflow to celebrate their second shop on APRIL 1. We promise, this is no April Fool's joke!

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