Post by GayCities Washington, DC, editor Scott Wallis
The Washington, DC, autumn is known for its mild temperatures and clear skies. When the oppressive heat and humidity of summer breaks and visitors have left, the city again become walkable without sweating through your clothing and the locals, home from the beach, come out to play.
In honor of the beautiful DC fall, we rounded up some great places outside the queer beaten track that are worth checking out for locals and visitors alike.
~For a cocktail experience you won’t forget, head up to the roof of W Hotel Washington. You’ll be ushered outside to P.O.V., the only bar/lounge patio that overlooks the White House and the National Mall. Signature and standard drinks don’t come cheap, but views like this always come with a price. Think L.A.’s Mondrian Sky Bar, with the same attitude and exclusionary velvet rope. Try a mid-afternoon treat or pre-dinner cocktail to avoid the line.
~KOMI is consistently rated one of the top restaurants in Washington. Located in a nondescript rowhouse on 17th Street, N.W., just steps from J.R.’s Bar & Grill–the heart of the gay hood–chef Johnny Monis serves up dishes that change depending on the market and Johnny’s imagination. President and Mrs. Obama arrived unannounced for dinner a few months ago (throwing the J.R.’s boys into a frenzy) and it’s the hottest spot for regular folk and dignitaries alike. It’s not cheap but perfect for that special occasion or a relaxing meal after touring the Smithsonian.
~After a popular run in New York City, the Redhook Lobster Pound has opened a unique outpost in town. It’s a food cart that moves between DC’s four quadrants on a seemingly random basis. Follow it on Twitter to find the location. We discovered the the cart at June’s Pride Festival: The lobster is genuine-Maine traditional, down to the toasted hot dog bun. No fillers, no frills. At about $15 a pop it’s a satisfying bargain.
More of Scott Wallis‘ Washington, D.C. on GayCities
Monument photo by faceme
