#CityWeekly: Favorite Fall Foods

It's officially fall! The temperatures have drastically dropped over the past week in DC & I am settling into the new season. Emily from the Vivre Blog & I decided to welcome October this week with our favorite fall foods. Head over to Emily's blog to check out her picks in Silicon Valley!

I love the flavors of fall they are so comforting. I also love having the smell of pumpkin spice fill my apartment (thanks to my favorite Nature's Wick candle.) Anyways, when the temps start to get cooler I go in search for comforting food. So I bring you my favorite fall foods in DC!

1. District Doughnut: fall flavored donuts

If you love donuts as much as I do I highly recommend District Doughnut. They have amazing fall flavors like Caramel Apple Streusel & Pumpkin Spice. The donuts are made fresh daily & the menu is always changing. Check the website before you plan to go to get the flavor you want!

2. Nicecream Factory: Pumpkin Spice Ice Cream

My two favorite things have collided to make one amazing treat! Ice cream + pumpkin spice = heaven. Thanks to Katie from A Touch of Teal for teaching me about this amazing flavor. After she posted a picture to her Instagram I ran to get it! The temperatures might be getting colder but that doesn't stop me from enjoying ice cream. Especially when it's fall flavored, am I right? They also offer the ice cream with espresso. I need to try that next!

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3. Sauf Haus Bier Hall: Pretzels & Beer Cheese

I am seriously obsessed with pretzels & beer cheese. My sister & I used to make both of them when I lived in Boston. I am still convinced our beer cheese is the best but, this beer hall comes in close second. The pretzels are also huge! We ordered one & it served three people happily. This is the perfect place to enjoy a fall night with friends. Good food, good beer & a cozy place to relax, that's my kind of a night!

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4. Tryst Cafe: Mulled Apple Cider

Get cozy at this cute coffee shop with a book & some hot apple cider. I love the comfort I get from drinking hot cider & the memories it brings back. I also love Tryst it's so cozy! The decor makes you feel right at home.

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5. Bayou Bakery: Gumbo

When it gets cooler outside we all want to warm up next to a bowl of soup. I love the Gumbo at the Bayou! It's the perfect comfort food for a cold fall day. I always order it with a side of corn bread, which makes it a very hearty meal. If you're in DC this is worth heading to Arlington for (just saying!)

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I hope everyone is enjoying the new season & the changing weather. What are your favorite fall foods? Don't forget to stop by the Vivre Blog to see Em's favorites.

Xo,

Emily

#CityWeekly: Pizza Places

After a mini break, Emily from the Vivre Blog & I are back to bring you this weeks #CityWeekly. I don't know about you but I love pizza. Not only is it delicious but it's also a food that brings people together. When in doubt always go with pizza! That's why this week Emily & I are bringing you the best pizza places from coast to coast. Don't forget to check out Em's picks in Silicon Valley at her darling blog. 

There is never a shortage of good food in DC but sometimes you just want to go back to the basics & enjoy a good pizza. So if you're in the area here are my top picks!

1. Vace

I discovered this Italian market in 2010 when I was interning. It's one of my favorite slices of pizza in the city! It's located in Cleveland Park & is the perfect lunch spot before heading to the zoo. The pizza is made fresh everyday, you can grab a slice to go or you can order ahead of time to pick up a full pizza. The only downfall is there is no indoor seating since it is an Italian market.

2. Il Canale

Thanks to my friend Terrell, I recently discovered Il Canale in Georgetown. Not sure how I missed this yummy restaurant! It's nestled in the tree lined streets which makes it a perfect spot to retreat to. The pizza is traditional thin crust & is cooked in a wood-fired oven. It has been named the best in DC several times, I am not arguing with that! The staff is also very friendly, helpful & they made my experience great. 

3. &Pizza

Need a quick personalized pizza? How about you try &Pizza! There are various locations throughout the city. Each location reflects the different neighborhoods vibe which, makes each experience unique. You can choose from a menu of pre-made selections or make your own with as many toppings as you'd like. The price is right too & it's great for a quick bite!

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4. 2 Amys

One of my all time favorite pizza places in DC. The pizza here is so good that it is"Denominazione di Origine Controllata" status. This means they are legally permitted the ingredients & methods of preparation necessary to produce authentic Neapolitan Pizza. It's basically certified by Italy, which means it's amazing. Enough said? 

5. Pizza Paradiso
Not only do they have three great locations (Georgetown, Dupont Circle & Old Town) they also have an amazing beer menu + pizza selection. The pizza is a thicker crust & is cooked in a wood burning oven. If you're a crust person like me you will love this pizza. This is the perfect spot to spend a Friday night with friends & enjoy a good pizza! You can thank me later.

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Don't forget to stop by Emily's blog to see her picks in SV. Do you have a favorite pizza place?

Xo,

Emily

#CityWeekly: Farmers' Market

One of my favorite parts of living in the city is having several unique markets at my fingertips. I love getting fresh produce, flowers  & anything else for the week.  I used to go to the Salt Lake City farmers' market with friends & I loved it. Since I grew up in a family run store, I am a huge advocate for supporting & shopping local.

Emily & I decided to share our favorite farmers' markets where we live. Check out Em’s picks over at the Vivre Blog.

1. Eastern Market

I’ve talked about how much I love Eastern Market before. I obviously had to include it in this post. This has to be one of my favorite markets in DC. It offers a wide variety! On Saturdays I love to go for the Blueberry Buckwheat Pancakes & then shop. Favorite stops along the way through the market: gardeners gourmet, crepe truck, pickle truck & of course all the fresh produce you can pick up along the way. If you're in the area call me & we can go!

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2. Dupont Circle Farmers' Market
This market is perfect for a weekly produce pick up & is located in the heart of Dupont. It's open Sundays from 9am until 2pm but the schedule does change from January-March. I love going into the city to pick up seasonal fruits & walk along the row house lined streets. It's very dreamy!

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3. Courthouse Farmers' Market

I discovered this market when I moved into my apartment. I seriously had no idea there was a little farmers' market right outside my door. This market is a bit smaller but that doesn't mean it doesn't have great things. At this market you can find fresh produce, meats, cheeses, homemade bread & street vendors selling art + clothing. It's really cute & if you're in the Arlington area you should check it out. Oh & come by to say hi to me!

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4. Union Market

This is an indoor market that you can visit anytime. Union Market hosts pop up restaurants & shops as well as a traditional farmers' market. I recently took my first visit to the market to attend the Twitter Ice Cream social. Afterward I wanted to take a look around & see what all the fuss was about. I am sure it would be much more happening during the weekends but from what I saw, I liked it! I want to go back & check out Red Apron. Toki Underground also hosts a pop up there (calling my name!)

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5. White House Farmers' Market

I discovered this little market when I was interning in DC in 2010. It's really small & a great place to run during your lunch break to pick up some produce. You can't beat the view of the White House from the market! Where else can you do that? The market is held Thursdays from 11am-2:30pm & runs through October 30th. 

I am savoring every little bit of the warm weather. If you need me you can find me at any of these spots!

What markets do you like in your area? I am always on the lookout for great local spots when I travel. I would love to hear from you!

Xo,

Emily

#CityWeekly: Parks

Being a Salt Lake City native, I am a big fan of being able to go outdoors & explore. While I miss the mountains & the ability to drive up to the canyons for a cookout, the parks in DC are a great substitute and there are a variety of outdoor spots you can pick from. With Labor Day right around the corner & the weather getting cooler it’s the perfect time to get outside! 

Emily & I decided to talk about our favorite spots to relax from coast to coast in this weeks #CityWeekly. Don't forget to stop by the Vivre Blog to see Em's favorite parks in the Bay Area.

If you’re in the area, here are some of my favorite parks:

1. The National Mall

America’s playground! How could I leave this out? I always love to go to the National Mall to see the sights. It really is gorgeous & reminds me how lucky I am to live here. You can take a stroll along the Mall & see the Capitol, Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial & much more. During the summer the Mall also holds Screen on the Green, which is one of my favorite summer activities! They play old movies & you lay out on the grass with a group of friends. It’s perfect! You can also attend Jazz in the Garden at the National Sculpture Garden on Fridays. Sad to say these events will soon be over, so head to the Mall if you want to catch the last bit of summer fun!

2. Rock Creek Park

Rock Creek is an expansive park that runs throughout the city. If you love to be outdoors & you’re in DC this is your spot. I’ve even spotted deer here before! It’s crazy to see in the city but I love it! There are different areas of the park that you can go to. Looking for a playground? Rock Creek has one! Want to go horseback riding? You got it! Historical sites? Of course! If I could compare this park to anything (dare I) I would say it’s most like Central Park. It has a little something for everyone.

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3. Georgetown Waterfront Park

Georgetown has always been one of my favorite areas in DC, - partly because it is such a great spot to people watch. During the summer, you always see families playing in the splash park with their kids or people hanging out on the restaurant patios, taking in the views of the river and Roosevelt Island. The waterfront also has a boathouse where you can rent kayaks, paddleboards & canoes. I can’t speak on the cleanliness of the Potomac though… During the weekdays, it’s a nice place to wind down after a hectic workday, and over the weekends, it’s a great place to have a drink!

4. Great Falls

When I first moved to DC, I lived in Great Falls for a couple months, so this place always brings back great memories. It’s a cute town with gorgeous houses (some with areas for horses) & it’s home to Great Falls National Park. I recommend going on the weekend when you have time since it does involve a bit of a hike. You can park your car for $5 while you take on the trail. It is scenic with waterfalls throughout & it involves enough of a workout to keep you going. Pack some food, grab some friends & take in the great outdoors!

5. Gravelly Point

Who doesn't love a great view of the city? Oh & did I mention you can watch the planes take off + land here? This is a great place to go for an afternoon. The park has shade, picnic tables & a pier you can look off of to see some of the cities famous landmarks. This park is very different than the others, but it's very cool! I have always loved watching planes, it reminds me of being a kid again. Be sure to bring a blanket to lay on to get the full experience. Have fun!

What are some of your favorite parks? Let me know in the comments below.

Have a great week!

Xo,

Emily

#CityWeekly: Neighborhoods

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Exploring the city is one thing I really enjoy doing. I love looking at different neighborhoods & seeing what they have to offer. Walking around & taking it all in makes me fall more in love with my city. I know Emily feels the same way about where she lives. I love hearing about different areas across the coast so, head over to the Vivre Blog to see what neighborhoods she loves. 

One thing that I have always love about DC is the small city feel in a big city. The different parts of the city feel like places you could live & enjoy. I have lived in different cities throughout my life & DC remains one of my favorites. Not only because I live here but because it truly is a pretty city, clean, has parks, places to get outdoors & relax. So here are my top neighborhood picks:

1. Logan Circle

This neighborhood is my dream location. It's practically perfect! Super accessible to many other neighborhoods in DC like: Dupont, U Street, Adams Morgan & Downtown. When you walk along the streets it doesn't feel like you're in the city. The tree-lined streets make it feel homey. This neighborhood is quite the charmer! Not to mention it's near some of my favorite restaurants. The nightlife is also great for young 20 somethings. You can walk up the street to U & hit some great bars or stay near the circle. What's not to love?

2. Dupont

Dupont is tucked away in the city making it a great location to retreat to. Up the street you will find embassies, gorgeous houses, shopping & of course great restaurants. You can always catch a breathe of fresh air in the circle near the fountain + do some great people watching. I love walking from Dupont into Georgetown it's like a real estate dream come true.

3. Eastern Market

This location will always have a special place in my heart. I used to live near this neighborhood & I loved the location. Every weekend there is a huge market hence the name, where you can find: fresh fruit, cheese, art, furniture, clothes, jewelry & the famous blueberry buckwheat pancakes (only served on Saturday.) There is also a strip of places to shop + eat along Barracks Row that you can check out. The area is charming & has its own feel. 

4. Clarendon

Ok, I had to add some Virginia locations in here + my own neighborhood (duh!) While I don't technically live right in Clarendon, I live close enough. I am not going to say this has the old school feel that DC has because it doesn't it's pretty new. It is very nice & a little more reasonably priced than living in the city. I was skeptical don't get me wrong because I am a huge city gal. But this neighborhood is close to the river where you can run along the trails or bike. You can get one of the best views of the city from over here (seriously!) It is also filled with tons of young people & there is no shortage of great places to go out with friends or eat. The neighborhood is also very family friendly, which I love. Seeing families out together makes me feel right at home!

5. Old Town Alexandria

Another Virginia location because honestly this town is freaking CUTE! It's near the water where you can take a water taxi to the National Harbor or you can just take in the view. The streets are lined with cobble stone & old houses are converted into shops. It's a fun place to get out of the city & you feel like you've been transplanted to a European city. I can't recommend visiting this quaint little town enough. 

There are so many great neighborhoods in the DC area, I love it! Some of my other favorite places that I didn't mention are: Georgetown, Kalorama & Adams Morgan. I will never stop exploring this gorgeous city.

What are your favorite neighborhoods where you live?

Xo,

Emily

#CityWeekly: Ice Cream Shops!

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If you know me, you know I have a huge sweet tooth. I am always on the look out for places to get my sugar fix. Ice cream has always been one of my favorite treats! This week Emily & I are talking about our fav places to grab a scoop (or two!)

Head over to the Vivre Blog to see Ems #CityWeekly picks on the West Coast.

So picture this you’re visiting DC & you are dying for a great ice cream shop. Well, I’ve got you covered, here are my top picks:

1. Nicecream Factory
This gem recently opened in Clarendon which is actually in Virginia but hey it's the DMV! Luckily for me it's right down the street from where I live. I have to say I am quite impressed! All their ice cream is made to order which makes it taste fresh & special. They use liquid nitrogen to make the ice cream right in front of you.

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2. Pitango Gelato 
Alright I know we are supposed to be talking ice cream but I can't resist the gelato (it's too good!) I discovered this shop when I was in DC for my internship. I am so happy I did because it's amazing! They have great flavors + this gelato will literally melt in your mouth. I imagine this would be very close to what you would get in Italy ;).

3. Larry's Ice Cream
Craving some delicious homemade ice cream? Look no further! They have plenty of amazing flavors to choose from like Cinnamon Cookie Dough, HELLO. If you're in the mood for something other than ice cream they also have cupcakes! I mean, does it really get much better?

4. Dolcezza 
I am a sucker for gelato + good coffee. If you are too then you should really head to Dolcezza. The gelato is made fresh daily & they use local farms to get their ingredients. The flavors change frequently which keeps me coming back for more (oops!)

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5. Georgetown Scoops
I love the feel of this cute little shop! You feel like you have been transplanted into a European town. They offer a variety of ice cream flavors + sorbet. The ice cream is made from fresh ingredients that you can taste in the ice cream. Grab a scoop & sit outside to take in the Georgetown streets + great people watching. 

Next time your sweet tooth kicks in head to the places above & I guarantee you will be satisfied. 

What are your favorite ice cream shops in your area? 

Xo,

Emily