CarolJoynt.com

Redskins: Peyton Manning, Rob Lowe, Cam Newton

SPRING ON THE WATER: KEY BRIDGE OVER THE POTOMAC AT 7:45 AM, JANUARY 31

Since I reported that the Redskins have chosen their quarterback with a team executive's statement that "the fans will be elated" by the choice, I've heard a lot of speculation. Most of the time it is Peyton Manning. Remember that actor Rob Lowe, a Colts' insider, tweeted that Manning had ended his contract with the team, and it was just about the same time the Redskins reportedly made their decision. No question Manning is an elite quarterback, but he's injured and the injury is debiliating. We have a tendancy here in Washington to be a pit stop on the way to over-the-hill (Donovan McNabb, Michael Jordan, Joe Gibbs) because we like big names and, when it comes to sports teams, we like to dream. 

I'm not sure the Redskins need a big "name" quarterback so much as they need a good quarterback who will grow with the team, plus a few other important positions filled, and a plan. Yes, Manning will put butts in the seats at FedEx, but if he doesn't deliver it will be only for so long. Washington fans dream but they aren't stupid.

Other speculation: the Cam Newton would be traded to us. Hmmm. Interesting. But what would we have to give up for that? If it's only money, rather than draft picks, then fine. Dan Snyder has the money to buy well. His mantra should be build, build, build.

Happy Super Bowl, all. I remember when. 

Dinner Chez Nora Pouillon

IN NORA'S KITCHEN

Chef (and friend) Nora Pouillon hosted a dinner party for friends this evening at her Georgetown home. It included after-dinner dancing, which is an ideal way to begin a new week -- eat well and dance. Of course before the dancing there was a delicious meal. Well-seasoned steaks, salad of fresh greens, braised vegetables, and melange of roasted potatoes, Chanterlle mushrooms and garlic. Also a cheese course before dessert. Wines inlcuded a Spottswoode Sauvignon Blanc, a 2000 Chateau Damase Bordeaux, and Pinot Noir made by Nora's son (yum). 

The dance music? Classic 70s R&B.

Here pics of some of the food:

Nora is writing a memoir, but still working a full schedule at her restaurant (Washington's first organic) at 2132 Florida Avenue NW. Howard and I became regulars soon after the restaurant opened in 1979, and I still love to dine there whenever possible. That said, imagine the treat of a dinner at home with the chef?

 ONE SHELF OF NORA'S CUPBOARD

 

How Mild Is Washington's Winter, So Far?

MILD ENOUGH FOR A BRIDE TO POSE OUTSIDE SATURDAY AFTERNOON AT THE GEORGETOWN WATERFRONT PARK (and without needing a coat nearby)

MILD ENOUGH FOR QUINCE TO BLOOM ON Q STREET

MILD ENOUGH FOR WINTER CAMELLIAS TO BLOOM WITHOUT GETTING "FROSTED"

MILD ENOUGH FOR BULBS TO GROW TALL IN A GEORGETOWN GARDEN - IN THE SHADE

A friend in Winston-Salem, NC, Ruth DeLapp Sartin, wrote to say, "It's already spring in the south. Daffodils are in full bloom. I do not like it. Unsettling. Shakespeare felt the same."

I'm not unsettled by the mild weather. Not liking the cold, I'm delighted. It's fun to be snow bunny only in places like Vermont, Colorado, Switzerland.

Still, this weather is sui strange. Groundhog Day is Thursday, the first day of spring is 52 days away.

Snowmaggedon 2010 happened on February 11. Right now the forecast for Feb 11 is for temps in the 40s. Please, no precip. 

Join The Mailing List

Please consider joining my mailing list, if you aren't on it already. Here's what you get: a weekly email aggregating stories I've written for Washingtonian and updates on The Q&A Cafe. It's generally sent out on Saturday mornings, or when I have new relevant information. I don't share the list with anyone. It's simple to join. Send an email to me: carol@caroljoynt.com

White House Source: POTUS Will Have to Vacate Oval Office Next Year

Here's an exclusive on Washingtoninan.com today: due to planned West Wing renovations the Oval Office will be shut down starting in 2013. What it means is that the president will have to relocate to the EEOB. Read the whole story: POTUS To EEOB.

WEED IN WASHINGTON

Don't miss Washingtonian's new issue, which explores just how buzzed the capital may be - who uses, who sells, who's making a buck on brownies and cookies and lollipops, all about the "Botwins" -  and a primer on the arrival here of medical marijuana and its dispensaries. There may be one near you.

State of the Union? Tonight I Celebrate RiFi (and a party)

SHANE HARRIS, CAROLYN PEACHY AND LEON WIESELTIER AT PARTY HONORING RICHARD HOLBROOKE

Refinanced my home this morning!! Making it a very big day. Mid-morning my focus turned to the firing of Flip Saunders at the Wizards. After lunch I interviewed Mayor Vincent Gray in his City Hall office. After work I walked the dog, along with friend and colleague Shane Harris. At 6ish showed we both went to Gahl Burt's for a party for a book about Richard Holbrooke. At 7:30 talked to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton about an idea. In other words, it was a very DC day. Now, sleep.

Georgetown Dinner Party (for a cause) vs NFL Play-Offs (for a title)

TABLE FOR 22

Dinner tonight at the Nixon's on N Street. Barton Seaver was the executive chef, with major support from Teddy Diggs of Home Port on Martha's Vineyard, for a private dinner on behalf of DC Central Kitchen and Martha's Table. A lot of needed funds were raised. But it did require master chefs to keep the table seated. Several of the guests kept slipping away to the adjacent den to watch the Giants-49ers game. The rest talked life, politics, family and about the dire ice storm warnings coming across cell phones. Read the full story here: Sunday Suppers for a Cause.

COOKS IN THE KITCHEN. KOJO NNAMDI IN THE FOREGROUND, WATCHING THE GAME

JUST BEFORE DINNER, CHEFS TEDDY DIGGS, KOJO NNAMDI AND BARTON SEAVER

THE TABLE BEFORE THE GUESTS SAT DOWN

STRIPED BASS WITH GRAINS

POPCORN COOKER LAMB

NOT AWESOMELY PHOTOGENIC BUT DELICIOUS DESSERT OF PEAR, ALMOND FRANGIPANE AND CHOCOLATE SORBET.

Jete Society Dance Party; Great Saturday Night Fun

LISA CRAWFORD PROVIDES MODEL PROTOTYPE FOR THE SHOT

It will be in Washingtonian's March issue, but tonight we did a fashion shoot at the Jete Society annual dance party. This was pure fun, and I'm grateful to photographer Kevin Allen for letting me be Grace Coddington. Good friend and super DC stylist Lisa Crawford provided major assitance. All kinds of stylish young partyers were our models. 

Out On The Town

A CLASSIC MANHATTAN AT JACK ROSE DINING SALOON

Out on the town last night with good neighbors Sam Harrington and Debbie Weil. We celebrated the end of a long work week at Jack Rose Dining Saloon. Much fun, good food and drink, interesting people. We were joined by owner Bill Thomas and resident whisky czar Harvey Fry.  (Do read Todd Kliman's Harvey Fry  profile) Nonetheless, home before midnight, using Debbie's Uber account (worked like a dream). Rest much welcomed. I have to work tonight and tomorrow night, so ... I'll be able to watch the Ravens-Patriots game, but only a half hour of Giants-49ers. Now, if the latter goes into overtime, I'll return home in time for that. I'd like both games to go into overtime, and I know who I hope wins. But, please, no comments; we all have our faves.

So grateful for my NFL app. I'll be sneaking looks under the table.

THE FIRST COURSE AT WASHINGTONIANS OF THE YEAR LUNCHEON

Earlier this week a lovely luncheon on behalf of Washingtonian's "Washingtonians of the Year." It was held at the Willard Hotel. My table mates included John Derrick, former head of Pepco, Doug Wheeler, Arthur Cotton Moore, Victor Shargai, Jaylee Mead, Terre Jones of Wolf Trap, Joy Zinoman of Studio Theater. In addition to the current honorees, the room was filled with past honorees. Everyone at my table - with one exception (me) - had been a past Washingtonian of the Year. Very cool. Wonderful stories of heroic and good works.

THE VIEW FROM TABLE 20; PUBLISHER CATHY WILLIAMS AT THE PODIUM

It was one of those rare occasions where one feels a great sense of community, and local living, completely apart from the federal government. 

 

Pretty Party For The Sackler

ASIAN CANAPES AT THE PILLSBURYS

Cocktails and buffet dinner this evening at the Georgetown home of Michael and Susan Pillsbury. It was on behalf of the Freer-Sackler Museum and its upcoming 25th anniversary. There will be a full story tomorrow on washingtonian.com, but for now here are some photos I shot at the party:

LYCHEE MARTINIS FROM DESIGN CUISINE

THE BUFFET

THE PILLSBURYS ARE COLLECTORS OF RARE ASIAN ART AND ARTIFACTS

WILLEE LEWIS DIPS INTO A LYCHEE MARTINI

SUSHI TOWER IN THE KITCHEN

THE KITCHEN BAR

ORCHIDS AND CONVERSATION

SHE BLOCKED THE STAIRS! (HEH HEH HEH), BEAUTIFULLY

THE (GENTLE, LOVELY) ENTERTAINMENT

Redskins New QB Has Been Chosen, According to Team Official

Dennis Greene was overheard at lunch today, spilling some news. Read the full story on washingtonian.com.

Dwight Eisenhower, Queen Elizabeth and Tim Tebow

ELIZABETH THE QUEEN

Sorry for a delay in posting. It's been a busy week for me, so far.

I get to bed early, up early, to work early, but still days feel short. Not bad or unsatisfying. Only short. I fall behind in everything that is not work. Thus the phone messages from collection agencies...(and, of course, each thinks it is unique). Ha!

Here are some posts, so far this week:

Party for Sally Bedell Smith to Celebrate her Book, Elizabeth the Queen

Q&A with Sally Bedell Smith

Susan Eisenhower Talks About Her Family's Battle with Frank Gehry

And you wonder what any of this has to do with Tim Tebow. Read the Sally Bedell Smith book party story and then you'll know.

 

Winter

SPOTTED IN FRONT OF A HOUSE ON RESERVOIR ROAD (a tree leaf tried to grow in Georgetown)

All I can say is 65 days until spring!

Partying With The Swells and "Elizabeth the Queen"

WASHINGTONIAN PHOTOGRAPHER JEFF MARTIN SNAPS A PIC

Yes, the rich are different, they live in smashing big homes and have the means to throw a lavish party for a friend. That's exactly what Joan and Bernard Carl did this evening for Sally Bedell Smith to celebrate her new book, "Elizabeth the Queen." In the British spirit, the cocktails and canapes were what might be served at Buckingham Palace. I'll have a full report on washingtonian.com on Tuesday, but for now here are some photos:

EILEEN SHIELDS-WEST AND BILL NITZE TALK IN THE DRAWING ROOM BY THE FIRE

ONE OF THE TABLES WITH FLOWERS AND PHOTOS HONORING THE QUEEN

SPOON-SIZED SHEPHERD'S PIE

THE BOOK AND ITS SUBJECT

HMMMM. WILL HE BUY?

THE BOOK SIGNING IN THE CARL'S LIBRARY

AUTHOR SALLY BEDELL SMITH

CROWN AND FLOWER COOKIES FROM CATERER SUSAN GAGE

SOCIALIZING IN WASHINGTON ON A SATURDAY NIGHT

A Thirst Quenching and Delicious Evening @JackRoseDiningSaloon

THE BAR AT JACK ROSE DINING SALOON ON 18TH STREET AT FLORIDA AVE

Don Draper introduced me to bourbon. The introduction involved a co-conspirator, too: Derek Brown of The Columbia Room. After I met bouron I then met the Old Fashioned and with that a whole new adventure in cocktails and the places where they are served. Increasingly, American bars are fine tuning their focus, moving away from the dreadful era of Long Island Iced Tea and icky sweet shots and toward a revival of refined and elegant drinking - with a modern twist. The modern twist is knowledge and craft.

And that's what got me to the new Jack Rose Dining Saloon last evening. I joined friends for drinks and dinner. We had a terrific booth (big enough for six), with a great view of the gorgeous dark-wood and romantically lit room. It's a library, really, but instead of books the walls are lined with stacks of bottles. As with a library, the bartenders climb rolling ladders to pull down something special and rare. There's a thick "Whisky Book" detailing all the brown liquors available in one or two ounce portions, and a whisky sommelier. Why not?

I had an excellent Old Fashioned made with rye and also my first Manhattan, also made with rye. Were I half my age I would have sampled more, but there are limits. Our server was Aaron and he was helpful but not obtrusive.

We also ate well. The menu offers something for those who want to sip and eat lite or sip and eat hearty. We had cheddar ham biscuits, pickled shrimp (wonderful mustard), delicate smoked salmon dusted with diced onion, accompanied by dark bread; lightly fried frogs legs, roasted potatoes, cauliflower, mushrooms and bread pudding. They offer some tempting big entrees, such as Muscovy Duck, Steak Diane (so Mad  Men), Rack of Lamb, Grilled Chop of Venison, Grilled Diver Scallops (all would go well with a glass of bourbon). There's a beer list and also a nice wine list, but if strictly a wine drinker I would go with an open mind to at least explore some bourbons first. The sweet scent of tobacco is from an adjacent cigar bar. They go together.

The website is JackRoseDiningSaloon.com. They owners also own Bourbon in Glover Park. 

UberDC: Is It Illegal? (updated Friday afternoon)

On

Wednesday the D.C. Taxi Commission accused the new luxury car serivce Uber of "being illegal." Is it? I did an exclusive and extensive interview with Uber CEO Travis Kalanick that's up on washingtonian.com. Please give it a read. He addresses the Taxi Commission charges, talks about the founding of Uber, his background and what the hell went on during the wee hours of New Year's Eve. 

Read this update with Kalanick from Friday, after one of his drivers had his car impounded.

The D.C. Taxi Commission has a lot of hubris slinging trash at Uber or any other car service, especially given the paltry level of service available from DC cabs. Yes, there are still a few good drivers in the fleet, who speak English, who know their way around town, whose cars are clean and with working parts, and who don't babble on the goddamned phone the ENTIRE time of the trip. But, as I said, they are few. DC cabs are awful. The city needs more Ubers, and I say that having never used the service. 

@LandofBloodandHoney, Jolie-Pitt, Story and Pics, On Washingtonian.com

Just posted on washingtonian.com. Read it all here, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie party in Washington for premier of @LandofBloodandHoney.

BRAD'S SHAGGY BEARD. IT ACTUALLY LOOKS BETTER IN PERSON THAN IN PHOTOS

WHAT IT'S LIKE TO BE ANGELINA JOLIE; THE MOSH PIT

Simon Doonan's "Gay Men Don't Get Fat"

If you've ever walked by Barneys New York on Madison Avenue (and who hasn't?) then you know Simon Doonan. For more than two decades he has been the designer of those often outrageous window displays. He also had a clever column in the New York Observer, and now on Slate, and has written a number of books. His latest is "Gay Men Don't Get Fat."

I read the book and also interviewed Doonan and have a report today on Washingtonian. It's got Christmas at the White House and the Salahis! And he's come to town.  Please give it a read: "Gay Men Don't Get Fat."

Pie Sisters, 3423 M Street, Georgetown

NOT CUPCAKES, BUT PIES OF ALL SIZES AT PIE SISTERS ON M STREET

Today I stopped in the brand new Georgetown pastry shop, Pie Sisters, which is at the far western end of M Street, 3423, just  beyond the running shop and the bike shops and across from Key Bridge. I'll be honest, I'm not much into pies (with the notable exception of Key Lime) but what they had on display was hugely tempting. They even had savory Chicken Pot Pie. Also, the little shop is very pretty and welcoming. (Note: I've since returned and tried a Chicken Pot Pie. One makes a perfect light lunch, two would make an ideal dinner, and an excellent option for a spontaneous dinner party with salad from nearby Sweetgreen).

CHICKEN POT PIES

In addition to big, regular sized pies they offer personal sized pies, basically what pies would be if pies were cupcakes, and maybe that's the point. For crust fiends, this is a bonanza. 

AT THE COUNTER AT PIE SISTERS

My colleague at Washingtonian, Anna Spiegel, who writes the useful, interesting and delish "Best Bites" blog, has more on Pie Sisters.

This is an opportunity to remind you to please check washingtonian.com daily, twice daily, thrice daily, because since we've assembled a crack Web unit (haha, Web Crack), there's so much to feast upon. Modestly, I say we become more engaging every day.

A WIDE LOOK AT THE SHOP FROM THE COUNTER

The "sisters" in "Pie Sisters" are Allison, Erin and Catherine Blakely. While they grew up in Northern Virginia, Georgetown Patch says they attended St. John's Church here in Georgetown. They learned baking from Mom, of course.

ISN'T THAT PRETTY? THE FRONT WINDOW AT PIE SISTERS

AND FROM THE OTHER SIDE:

I refuse to fall into the trap of pitting them against the other wonderful sisters, Katherine Kallinis and Sophie LaMontagne, who created and own Georgetown Cupcake only a few blocks up on M. Way too easy. Pies aren't cupcakes. I'm simply delighted they chose to open in my neighborhood, which is becoming Washington's nexus of sweets; the above mentioned plus beloved Baked & Wired, Patisserie Poupon, J. Chocolatier, Leopold's, Dolcezza, Thomas Sweet (and also chains such as Dean & Deluca, Pinkberry and Ben & Jerry's). I'm sure I'm forgetting someone. After all, there are rockin' donuts at Safeway. The  village's new motto should be: You Wanna Get Fat? Come to Georgetown.

Pie Sisters is open every day at 11 am; closed on Mondays.

Georgetown - January 7 & 8, 2012

ROSE PARK, 3PM, SATURDAY, ALMOST 70 DEGREES

THE COURTYARD AT KAFE LEOPOLD, 2:30PM, SUNDAY, 50 DEGREES

If winter were always as pleasant as the one we've been having, so far, I'd want to live here for years. I'm ready for spring, wherever it can be found.

...On The Subject Of FOOD

SUNDAY BRUNCH DONUTS AT PEARL DIVE OYSTER PALACE

I'm thinking that the item about Bill Clinton's former love of "five or six" pork chops got readers appetites up for some chops. Understandably. At this time of year it can be a treat to dine on a well-brined pork chop with homemade applesauce and roasted potatoes. Go for it. But maybe one or two instead of five or six. I recommend the butcher at Wagshall's in Spring Valley. 

WALDORF SALAD AT AMERICA EATS

But while on the subject of food, also to consider: the homemade donuts served at Pearl Dive Oyster Palace during Sunday brunch. They don't take reservations. It helps to arrive early, 11 or 12, or late, but by then the donuts are gone.

FRIED CHICKEN WITH BERRY "CATSUP" AT AMERICA EATS

Or maybe the Fried Chicken or Waldorf Salad at America Eats. This archival restaurant, created as a virtual museum piece by Jose Andres, is on OpenTable. Their drinks menu is a lot of fun, with artisinal cocktails from America's past. Also, consider trying The Hamilton, mentioned in an earlier post.

And a really good deal to consider: Maine lobsters. Bobby Moore sent an email announcing that today at Cannon's Seafood in Georgetown he would be selling 2 and 4 lb lobsters at $10 a pound. He'll steam and crack them for you, too. Give him a call and put in your order for Saturday night dinner: 202.337.8366. It's fun to stay home the weekend before Restaurant Week, when many people are out every night.

 

Former White House Chef: Bill Clinton "could eat five or six pork chops."

ROLAND MESNIER SPEAKING AT A WASHINGTON WINTER SHOW LUNCHEON

On Washingtonian today, a luncheon talk from former White House pastry chef Roland Mesnier produces some entertaining anecdotes. Pork chops! Missing strawberry cake! Read it: Bill Clinton Had a "Scary" Appetite. 

The Hamilton Brings Life Back to 14th and F Streets

THE HAMILTON HAS A FULL SUSHI BAR OFFERING A LOT OF CHOICES

If you are a fan of Clyde's and Old Ebbitt Grill you'll waste no time getting over to 14th and F Streets to check out the new Clyde's Restaurant Group enterprise, The Hamilton. It is a 24-hour extravaganza of food and music. It's epic in ambition and scope. I stopped in the other night and was impressed with the attention to detail, a Clyde's standard. The next day I did an interview with CRG CEO John Laytham for washingtonian.com. Please give it a read: A Q&A With John Laytham. 

THE HAMILTON'S COSMO, WITH TEXAS VODKA

I remember when that space was Garfinckels department store, a wonderful emporium that was Washington's answer to Bergdorf-Goodman. As a teenager I thought it was the most elegant place and still remember the first time I had birthday money to burn there, and did, and loved every minute. 

A GLIMPSE OF HALF OF THE "AFTER MIDNIGHT" MENU, AVAILABLE UNTIL DAWN

The Miller Brothers Bring Crowdsourcing to Development

On washingtonian.com today I have a story up about Ben Miller and Dan Miller, brothers who have started a real estate development company with a fresh approach. Their first order of business is to let the community get involved in choosing a tenant for a vacant building they own. You can vote, too. Please check it out: 1351 H Street Northeast. 

The 2012 Presidential Election Year Begins

Yes, with the 1,000 GOP debates it feels like the 2012 campaign has been happening for a year, but actually it officially starts in these next 12 hours with the Iowa caucuses. Next week is New Hampshire, and then primary after primary after primary. Just watch, whether because the coverage is interesting or amusing or engaging or enraging...but watch (or read, or listen). 

Iowa will count for something tonight because A) it is the venerable Iowa caucus, and B) the weather forecast is good (for Iowa), so estimates are more than 150,000 Iowans will participate. On the other hand, campaign experts predict the outcome won't make the GOP field any more defined than it's been for the past several weeks of clockwork shifting among Republican voters. Here's a good politico.com piece that focuses on the candidates mind-numbing mediocrity. 

I haven't decided who will be my "go-to" yet for cable campaign coverage, because I'm not keen on most of the prime time cable shows, with the occasional exception of Anderson Cooper. Piers Morgan is unwatchable, his MSNBC and Fox competitors are boring. I wish Chuck Todd and Chris Matthews had a 9 pm campaign show. Until that happy day I will just have to record Chris at 5 and otherwise patch patch patch.

My favorite political website remains RealClearPolitics.com. It is an ideal one stop, aggregating most of the other "print" reporting and commentary, plus polls, plus news. Hoping lots of new sites and fresh ideas will emerge during the run. My favorite campaign app of the moment is from The New York Times.