cocktails

Harry’s Restaurant in Washington, DC

Dining Outside the Home: Harry’s Restaurant in Washington, DC! With a sidewalk café that stretches at least half a block, Harry’s Restaurant is a place for meeting old friends and making new ones. Its patriotic surroundings bring a homey mixture of local flavor, genuine history, pub grub, and thirst-quenching beverages. It’s the perfect spot away from the tourist traps; the kind of place to sit back and unwind with a drink before heading elsewhere. If you’re hungry, try the Harry’s and Harriett’s Burger. It’s a half-pounder, cooked medium, with melted cheese, veggie sides, potato chips, and coleslaw. The surprise ending is an Oreo cookie. This is America after all.

POV Rooftop Lounge and Terrace in Washington, DC

Dining Outside the Home: POV Rooftop Lounge and Terrace in Washington, DC! Word gets around that one of the most spectacular panoramic views of the DC skyline can be seen from the POV Lounge and Terrace at the W Hotel. The sunset view beyond the glass wall of retractable windows translates to an open-air experience from anywhere in the room. From small bites to burgers and entrees, the menu promises to entice. Choose a drink of choice to compliment the food, celebrate the day, and live in the moment.

The Hamilton in Washington, DC

Dining Outside the Home: The Hamilton in Washington, DC! From the outside looking in, people are drawn to the charming appeal within the walls of The Hamilton. Don’t be surprised to hear the words, “I want to go there,” from passersby on their way to the White House. Soft lighting encourages intimate conversations in sophisticated surroundings over midday meals or late night dining. Perhaps it’s the mystique of our nation’s capital. Or the innovative menu. Or the crafted cocktails. The local talent of thriving musicians creates passion as well as live entertainment. Whatever the occasion, grab your partner and enjoy another of life’s simple pleasures.

Old Ebbitt Grill in Washington, DC

Dining Outside the Home: Old Ebbitt Grill in Washington, DC! Steps away from the White House sits a quaint, historic 1856 tavern that could tell legendary tales, if its walls could talk. Originally an “old boys club”, the Old Ebbitt Grill’s dramatic atmosphere still draws people from all over. Take a look around at the original paintings, antique beer steins, and stuffed animal heads. Murmurings of ghost stories and strange happenings still pop up in conversation. But focus instead on the amazing food and thirst-quenching cocktails. It’s a dining hotspot worth experiencing.

Frank’s Gourmet Grill in Mystic, Connecticut

Dining Outside the Home: Frank’s Gourmet Grill in Mystic, Connecticut! There’s something nostalgic about entering a dining room to see couples chatting over half-filled martini glasses. The words “style” and “grace” come to mind. People don’t seem to be in a hurry at Frank’s Gourmet Grill. Appetizers are appreciated. Soups are savored. Although seafood is always popular, it’s not unusual to see a spoon swirling in a bath of Fettuccine Alfredo or a knife cutting into a Rib-Eye Steak smothered in teriyaki glaze. The menu definitely deserves more than one visit. Passion and satisfaction are visibly perceived, understood, and remembered.

Captain Daniel Packer Inne in Mystic, Connecticut

Dining Outside the Home: Captain Daniel Packer Inne in Mystic, Connecticut! In the 1700s when weary travelers stopped for the night for food and a good night’s sleep, Captain Packer probably didn’t serve Lobster Salad and Roasted Cod with butter cracker crumbs. He did, however, entertain his guests with thrilling tales of adventures on the high seas. The Captain Packer Inne is still family-owned. They have poured blood, sweat, and tears into restoring it to the historic landmark it will always be. Hospitality is still extended to guests and patrons for fine dining and pub fare with live entertainment. You may even hear of wandering spirits. Unwind, bask in the history, and enjoy this popular destination.

The Mariner in Mystic, Connecticut

Dining Outside the Home: The Mariner in Mystic, Connecticut! In the center of Historic Downtown Mystic enjoy a meal, or two, at this upscale coastal restaurant where the seafood is fresh, food is made from scratch, and the cocktails go down real smooth. Try their version of New England Clam Chowder. Made with the freshest clams, the richest cream, and a secret recipe they’ll take to their grave. Is it any wonder it’s the top favorite in the restaurant? But don’t stop there. The gourmet chef also specializes in Italian cuisine from pastas to gnocchi as well as dry-aged steakhouse attractions that include tender filets and pan roasted rib eyes. Are you getting the picture? Perhaps you need to make The Mariner your regular eating house.

The Green Room in Key West, Florida

Dining Outside the Home: The Green Room in Key West, Florida! When the locals tip you off with their favorite watering holes, you kinda pay attention. The Green Room takes pride in serving up thirst-quenching organic drinks in eco-friendly surroundings. Not only that, they believe is supporting the community as much as possible. It is an island, after all. Environmental sustainability is critical to survival. The bartenders are as laid back as a Florida sunset and the live music is cultural, no matter the performer. Stop by for a few. You’ll walk away feeling like family.

Nine One Five Restaurant and Bar in Key West, Florida

Dining Outside the Home: Nine One Five in Key West, Florida. During the day you may walk by this charming whitewashed Victorian home, with ocean blue accents, thinking it’s a magnificent private residence. What a glorious sight. However once the evening hours roll around, every table seems to be filled with jovial guests on the wrap-around veranda before overflowing into the front yard beyond the white picket fence. Notice how the amber lights soften the mood for intimacy and celebration. Your first thought may be, “How do I get invited to the party?” My advice? Make a reservation because if you don’t, you’ll wish you did. Take time to enjoy every course. For starters, think about the raw Ahi Tuna Gravlax or fig balsamic Burrata. Delectable choices. Homemade pastas like fettuccine, cannot be resisted, especially when mixed with Key West pink shrimp and capers. The menu is varied to appeal to every palate. Go ahead, you’re worth it.