restaurant

Café du Parc in Washington, DC

Dining Outside the Home: Café du Parc in Washington, DC! For al fresco dining under a canopy of trees among the flowering planters of a French bistro, take a seat at the sidewalk table where the flurry of Pennsylvania Avenue never ends. This is how to take it slow with a strong admiration for everything French. Coffee and croissants, for starters? Mais oui. The Croque Madame is a Parisian delight with smoky ham, Swiss cheese, a soft-cooked egg with a slightly runny yolk, and velvety smooth Béchamel sauce. Experience the enticing cuisine while taking time out. You’re worth it.

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.

Dos Caminos in Times Square, New York, New York

Dining Outside the Home: Dos Caminos in Times Square, New York! Perhaps Cinco de Mayo isn’t the best time to try out an authentic Mexican restaurant. But then again, maybe it is. The vibrant cantina was hopping like a fiesta celebration. Shot glasses were slung back and refilled on demand. Traditional guacamole was served in natural molcajete stones with warm tortilla chips. The salsa trio was a bonus. Queso Fundido, piping hot in a black iron skillet, was spot on. Thick with melted cheese, poblano peppers, dark beer, and roasted tomatoes made it a meal. Keep the Cadillac Margaritas coming for an amazing culmination.

Bocca di Bacco in New York, New York

Dining Outside the Home: Bocca di Bacco Theater District in New York, New York! Pay attention when a waiter tells you where he goes for dinner when he’s off work. It’s usually one of those best-kept secrets. If you don’t have a reservation, no worries. Snag a seat at the bar. Bartenders are usually pretty friendly, you can linger over drinks, and when you’re ready for dinner…they happily accommodate. Bocca di Bacco in the Theater District is hip, trendy, popular, and within walking distance of a Manhattan hotel. You’ll realize that as soon as you cross the threshold of this neighborhood trattoria, people flock here for a cozy atmosphere. Distant laughter and glasses clinking are cause for celebration. If Italian small plates are more your style, prepare to be amazed. Not everything is pasta, but it is Italian, so sit back and inhale the aromas.

Trump Grill in New York, New York

Dining Outside the Home: Trump Grill in New York, New York! Truth be told, enjoying a meal at a destination restaurant on prestigious Fifth Avenue is all about the experience. The Trump Grill exists to be a lunchtime hotspot for busy shoppers, casual tourists, and thrill-seeking foodies. Located on the Garden Level of the world-class Trump Tower affords visitors a harmonious view of a 60-foot waterfall surrounded by flowers in bloom and unique retail shops. If you’re all in, begin with a signature cocktail like the “You’re Fired” oversized Bloody Mary. It pairs well with the Chopped Cobb entrée salad. The presentation is photo-worthy. The menu is filled with American classics from appetizers to desserts. In the end, relax, chat, linger, and enjoy food for the pleasure of it.

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.

S and P Oyster Restaurant and Bar in Mystic, Connecticut

Dining Outside the Home: S&P Oyster Restaurant and Bar in Mystic, Connecticut! Pull up a chair at a table for two overlooking life on the Mystic River. This waterfront restaurant checks all the boxes. Outdoor seating, check. Fresh seafood, check. Cozy atmosphere, check check. Sample a bowl of New England Clam Chowder. It’s rich creamy base will make you swoon. There’s enough to share. Leave room for their famous Lobster Roll. It’s stuffed with sweet lobster tail and hand-picked claw meat. The savory mayonnaise sauce has been infused with South American flair. You’ve probably never tasted anything like it. Sit back, mingle, nibble, and keep your eye on the Bascule Bridge. During daylight hours, it raises at 40 minutes past the hour or on demand.