Best Brunch
Brasserie Beck
What’s not to love about brunch? From morning libations to inventive omelet combinations, it’s the meal of (slightly hungover) champions. And it doesn’t get better than the offering at this modern Belgian brasserie, helmed by award-winning chef Robert Wiedmaier. Whether you go savory (Crab Cakes Benedict) or sweet (Lemon Soufflé Pancake), the à la carte menu is sure to please. And beer drinkers rejoice: The restaurant features the area’s most extensive Belgian beer list. Brunch is served weekends, from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. 202.408.1717. beckdc.com
Best Spa
Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spas
For the second year in a row, this national franchise tops the long list of DMV spa getaways. Whether you need a mani-pedi, crave a hot-stone massage, or fancy a bit of laser hair removal, you can get it all done in one visit to this 100-years-plus chain. Or purchase a spa series and spread the love over several visits. Either way, you won’t want to exit the red door. 202.362.9890. reddoorspas.com
Best Sports Bar
Grand Slam Sports Bar
Who says hotel bars can’t jump? Whether you love golf or basketball, this sports haven in the Grand Hyatt Washington puts you right in the middle of the action. Check the Web site before you arrive to see what will be on the many HD flat screens. Itching to play? Pick up a Wii controller and test your skills against other sports fans. The full menu includes pub standbys— wings, quesadillas—and more ambitious fare, such as fish tacos and Maryland Crab and Corn Chowder. And being a bar, the beer, wine, and cocktails are free flowing, of course. 202.379.6646. grandslamdc.com
Best First Date Spot
Teaism
This local chain of teahouses has been offering the perfect atmosphere to fall in like since 1996. The laid-back vibe combined with the highlights of a traditional tea ceremony and the ever-changing gallery provide natural conversation starters, and take the awkwardness out of getting to know each other. Besides several types of loose tea, each restaurant carries an extensive menu; order a couple bento boxes, or share several small dishes and watch the sparks fly. 202.835.2233 teaism.com
Best Bartender
Danni Ruth, Bar 7
From speakeasies to craft beer breweries to places where you can catch every game, the DMV has no shortage of bars. But as any happy hour regular knows, it’s the bartenders who transform bars into beacons—which is precisely what Danni Ruth does daily at Bar 7, last year’s “Best After-Work Cocktails” winner. “Danni has infectious charm, and an uncanny ability to entertain and serve consumers,” says Arlene Wube, operations director. It’s all in a day’s work for Danni, who says, “Thanks to all my customers. It’s always a pleasure interacting with old and new faces. And I hope I can continue bringing smiles to your faces.” 202.347.4343. bar7dc.com
Best Chicken and Waffles
Crème Cafe & Lounge
This U Street restaurant serves an extensive Southern-influenced brunch menu, but patrons belly up to the high top tables for the chicken and waffles. “We start with a great recipe, but our dish is unique because we have great hands that prepare it fresh. We always strive to make it memorable,” says operations manager Ezra Tilaye. And no visit is complete without a trip to the bar, where innovative drink combos invite you to stay well beyond brunch time; the Mango Heat serves up Hangar Chipotle Vodka, Cointreau, mango, and fresh lime juice. Brunch is served weekends, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 202.234.1885. cremedc.com
Best Live Music
Blues Alley
This supper club, nestled in Georgetown since 1965, has hosted many contemporary jazz greats, from Dizzy Gillespie to Nancy Wilson. Whether you are in the mood for national acts, like En Vogue or saxophonist Najee, or want to catch new talent, there’s no place in the city where soulful music takes center stage like at Blues Alley. Even the food is fluent in jazz, with a heavy Creole influence flavoring the seafood plates. 202.337.4141. bluesalley.com
