Out Out D.C.

23 Jan

Written By Anton

What’s happening this Season in D.C

Maison Bar à Vins Is Already One of America’s Best New Restaurants

Freshly opened and already earning national recognition, Maison Bar à Vins has just been named a semifinalist for Best New Restaurant in America, marking an extraordinary debut for the Adams Morgan newcomer.

Tucked inside a restored 19th-century brownstone in the heart of the neighborhood, Maison is a French-inspired wine bar and restaurant devoted to natural wines, thoughtful cooking, and the kind of evenings that linger well past the last glass. The latest concept from D.C.’s family-run Popal Group—the team behind Lapis, Lutèce, Pascual, and LaPop—Maison marries the casual romance of a European bar à vins with the ambition and polish of a full-scale culinary destination. Designed for spontaneity as much as for celebration, the multi-level space invites guests to drop in for a single pour or settle in for a long, unrushed meal, buzzing with conversation and warmth.

At the heart of Maison is one of the city’s most compelling wine programs, curated by Advanced Sommelier Chris Ray. The cellar spans more than 1,000 bottles, with a deep focus on organic, biodynamic, and low-intervention producers, largely from France, and over 30 wines available by the glass. The bar extends that philosophy into a cocktail list built around wine-based spirits, vermouths, and aperitifs, offering drinks that feel both inventive and unmistakably French.

In the kitchen, Executive Chef and Partner Matt Conroy delivers a menu designed for sharing and discovery. Small plates range from choux buns filled with taramosalata and pastoral terrines to smoked eel croquettes, rich and savory. Larger dishes—like a brioche-stuffed chicken breast with mushrooms—anchor the menu with comfort and depth. Together, the food, wine, and atmosphere make Maison Bar à Vins not just a standout new opening, but a place already shaping the future of dining in Washington, D.C.

Address

1834 Columbia Rd NW

Washington, DC 20009

https://www.instagram.com/_maisondc/?hl=en

Sook

The story of Sook is deeply rooted in the global travels of its founders. In 2014, Rose Previte opened Compass Rose in this historic DC townhouse, inspired by three years of traversing over thirty countries while living in Russia. That venture sparked a culinary revolution in DC, leading to the Michelin-starred Maydan.

Now, Rose has partnered with long-time friend and entrepreneur Sashi Jayatileke to transform the space once again. Sashi, originally from Sri Lanka and a veteran of global development at USAID, brings a shared passion for underrepresented markets and community-building. Together, they have reimagined the "jewel box" townhouse as an all-day sanctuary that honors the site's history while focusing on social impact through global viticulture.

🍷 The Wine Program: "Go There"

The wine list at Sook is a curated extension of Rose’s "Go There Wines" philosophy. The selection intentionally disrupts the industry by highlighting:

Underrepresented Regions: Bottles from Georgia, Lebanon, Turkey, and Mexico.
Diverse Makers: A focus on women and minority winemakers.
Unique Profiles: Indigenous grapes like Xinomavro and Kalecik Karasi, alongside skin-contact "amber" wines.

Sparkling

Lini 910 Lambrusca Rosso – Emilia Romagnia, IT | 15

Domaine Glinavos 'Paleokerisio' – Ioannina, Epirus, GR | 17

Fitz-Ritter Riesling Sekt – Pfalz, GE | 17

Julie Hoch 'Elderflower #1' – Niederösterreich, Austria | 16

White

Masseria Li Veli Verdeca – Puglia, IT | 17

Argatia 'Haroula' Malagouzia/Assyrtiko/Xinomavro – Naousa, GR | 15

Maloof Wines 'Fancy Free' Chardonnay/Aligote – Oregon, USA | 20

Skin Contact & Rosé

Teliani Valley Glekhuri Kisi Qvevri Amber – Kakheti, Georgia | 15

J. Mourat Rosé – Loire, FR | 15

Red

Mersel Red Velvet Cinsault – Bekaa Valley, Lebanon | 16

Kavaklidere 'Ancyra' Kalecik Karasi – Anatolia, Turkey | 15

Pasatiempo 'Mistico' Merlot/Nebbiolo/Syrah – Guadalupe Valley, MX | 15

1346 T Street NW, Washington D.C.

Mon–Tues: 7 AM – 3 PM (Coffee & Pastry focus)
Wed–Thurs, Sun: 7 AM – 10 PM
Fri–Sat: 7 AM – 11 PM
https://www.instagram.com/sookdc/

Maxwell

A Night at Maxwell Park: Why D.C.’s Wine Lovers Keep Coming Back

If Washington, D.C. has a wine bar that feels both effortlessly cool and deeply serious about what’s in the glass, it’s Maxwell Park. Tucked into the Shaw neighborhood, this lively, low-lit spot has become a go-to for industry folks, wine obsessives, and anyone who just wants a great glass without pretension.

That reputation was further cemented when Brent Kroll of Maxwell Park was named Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service—a national acknowledgment of the thoughtful, guest-first approach that defines the bar’s philosophy. It’s an honor that feels entirely earned the moment you sit down and order a drink.

From the moment you walk in, Maxwell Park feels welcoming rather than precious. The room hums with conversation, bottles line the walls, and the energy leans social—more “come hang out” than “quiet tasting room.” It’s the kind of place where you might stop in for one drink and suddenly realize you’ve been there for hours.

The real star, of course, is the wine program. Maxwell Park is famous for its ever-changing list of 50+ wines by the glass, often organized around playful or educational themes. Instead of defaulting to safe classics, the list pushes guests to explore lesser-known regions, grapes, and producers—without ever feeling intimidating. The staff are knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and genuinely great at guiding you toward something you’ll love, whether you’re deep into natural wine or just figuring out your preferences.

Food at Maxwell Park is intentionally wine-friendly and comforting. Expect cheese and charcuterie boards, craveable snacks, and dishes designed to complement what’s in your glass rather than compete with it. Nothing feels overwrought; everything feels thoughtful—perfect for sharing and grazing.

Part of Maxwell Park’s charm is its versatility. It works just as well for a casual date as it does for a solo glass at the bar, a late-night catch-up with friends, or a spontaneous neighborhood stop-in. Seasonal outdoor seating only adds to its appeal, making it a year-round favorite.

👉 Visit Maxwell Park:
https://www.maxwellparkdc.com