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City Cast DC

Find the best that Washington, D.C., has to offer.

With hundreds of wineries in the DMV, how’s one to choose? We hit up Dave McIntyre, the Washington Post’s wine columnist (yes, that’s a real job), to find out the best places to go and the right wines to get (completely for 

For a red wine, McIntyre suggests the Cabernet Franc, a variety that a lot of Virginia and Maryland wineries specialize in, because it thrives in the Mid-Atlantic climate.

For white wine, Petite Mansen is very popular right now. It’s a tropical, fruity wine that can be bone dry or sweet depending on how it’s processed. Plus, it’s pretty much only found in the DMV. Albarino and Sauvignon Blanc are also standouts among local wineries.

Now that you know what to get, here’s where to get it.

One of McIntyre’s favorites, this winery has a large variety to choose from. He particularly recommends their Petit Manseng and Cabernet Franc.

This father-daughter winery is a little farther afield but worth the trip. It specializes in small lot wines with a distinct French influence and process, including whole berry fermentation for reds and sur lie aging for whites.

With one of the most beautiful facilities and views in Virginia, this vineyard also has a great farm-to-table restaurant.

This winery is only a 40-minute drive from D.C. and has bar takeovers every Friday by another local winery, so you can get two-in-one.

This gorgeous outdoor winery is only 30 minutes from D.C. and 22-acres large. They currently grow six red and six white varieties.

An older winery famous for sweet, fruity wines. But McIntyre says they are also experimenting with some dry wines, including one he loves with Saperavi grapes. “They're one of very few people in the mid-Atlantic growing that,” he noted.

With a $33 wine tasting and regular live music and food trucks, this is one of Maryland's most popular vineyards. Beware the crowds on weekends.

Close to Annapolis, this winery makes the perfect day trip. McIntyre recommends their Sauvignon Blanc.

They make their own wines from grapes that are shipped in. You can do a formal tasting or go for just a glass. They also have a full restaurant.

Although they don’t make wine, they specialize in stocking Virginia bottles, and it’s a great way to try out local wines without leaving the city.

This pizza place regularly hosts natural local wine tastings, bringing in wineries from across the region. They even have a wine club.

Want more wine tips? McIntyre will be on our podcast tomorrow.

Subscribe so you don’t miss it

The Best Wineries In the DMV

DC's Best

 The month celebrating the experiences, cultures, and contributions of the Latina/e/o/x and Hispanic communities in the U.S. began Sept. 15 and runs through Oct. 15.

a significant period in the region’s liberation from its European colonizers

, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua declared independence on Sept. 15, 1821. Mexico celebrates independence on Sept. 16, Chile on Sept. 18, and Belize on Sept. 21.

Here are some ways you can celebrate this month:

 on Sept. 23 and 24. The District’s hallmark annual event takes place on Pennsylvania Avenue and features a parade, food vendors, a beauty pageant, and live music, including a musical performance by (Selena’s brother!) A.B. Quintanilla III of the Cumbia Kings.

on Oct. 10. This party and panel discussion at El Rey DC explores the experiences of people growing up LGBTQ+.

 on Sept. 20. This six-course dinner at Inca Social in Arlington will have your taste buds traveling through the delicious flavors of the region.

 on Sept. 21. Head to El Tamarindo in Adams Morgan (

) for a pupusa-making class and rum tasting.

This contemporary marketplace near Union Market features merchants from across the diaspora. 

Discover Latin American wines at their stores in Shaw, La Cosecha Market, and the Mosaic District in Fairfax.

Check out this list of more events around the DMV.

Check out the events, eateries, and shops to support and celebrate the Latina/e/o/x and Hispanic communities in the nation's capital.

How to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in D.C.

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in the DMV

If the last three years have taught me anything, it’s how to perfect the art of crying in public. And not to brag, but I’ve gotten pretty good at it. Here are our tried-and-true spots to attain that desolate, heartbroken vibe that everyone needs sometimes.

You’re not a true Washingtonian until you’ve balled on the Metro. It’s a rite of passage. Yes, people will probably stare, but that’s just because they can relate. Don’t panic.

Nothing beats sobbing with a view and the breeze in your hair. This is a real main character moment, so make sure not to miss out.

I recommend this one because sometimes, if you look pitiful enough, the vendors will give you free goodies. Once I even got a bouquet of flowers. But this can be hard to pull off, I recommend practicing at the above locations first.

This statue in Rock Creek Park was commissioned by writer Henry Adams to memorialize his wife who dies by suicide. Dark, I know, but the statue and dense trees just set that “heartbroken” vibe we’re trying to attain.

This is my personal favorite. Be sure to pick a time when it’s not busy, cuddle up with a copy of Jane Eyre or some other hopeless romance and cry in the good company of a novelist who understands.

Kiara McGowan of the now viral TikTok account “

 for some more sob spot suggestions, and her take on why it’s important to make space for D.C.’s public criers.

The Best Spots To Cry In DC

Vegan food doesn’t have to be bland, and it certainly doesn’t have to be healthy. Here are some of the best vegan spots in D.C. for any craving.

When it comes to upscale vegan options, Fancy Radish takes the cake. The dishes are creative and delicious with Asian and Mexican influence. The rutabaga fondue is one of the most unique dishes I’ve had in D.C.

Specializing in vegan soul food, this spot is a far cry from your classic leafy vegan spot. Try their country fried steak or cheezy grits and you’ll know what I mean.

Eating here is like dining in a chic rainforest. They have a large herbaceous drink menu, and we loved the King Trumpet Calamari, which is actually fried mushroom. For mains, the Chianti-Braised Jackfruit was rich, hearty, and beautifully plated.

This hipster hangout is known for its realistic “fish” and chips but has all sorts of comfort foods like burgers and dumplings.

This vegan diner/bakery has become a D.C. institution for people of all diets. They have everything from southern fried “chicken” wings, to vegan milkshakes, to made-to-order cakes.

 in fact run to this one and only vegan donut shop in D.C. The donuts are fluffy and fresh. For your first time, stick with the bestsellers like Boston cream, maple cream, and French toast. They are perfection.

The Best Vegan Restaurants In DC

Fall is right around the corner, and I’m fighting the urge to break the bank on new knitwear. Luckily, D.C. has tons of other cheaper and more sustainable ways to change up your wardrobe for sweater season. These are our tried-and-true spots to thrift clothes, some of which are totally free!

This free clothing swap is hosted by three locals 

. Bring your old clothes and wander the lawn to find new pieces to bring home. Everything left over is donated.

 will have you digging through the racks for hours. It’s outside the city, but worth the trip. The majority of my great thrift finds come from here. Besides clothes, they have furniture, kitchenware, books, jewelry, art, and more. Note that there are no dressing rooms so wear bike shorts or snug clothing so you can try stuff on!

Femme Fatale Clothing Swap (Cleveland Park):

Another free option, Femme Fatale hosts regular clothing swaps outside their shop. They encourage gender- and size-inclusive clothing and accessories, but leave the undergarments at home please! The next swap is this 

This small shop is dirt cheap but has high-quality clothing that turns over frequently. It doesn't take long to search 

 and makes for the perfect after-work stop.

Reasonable prices and great organization make this a staple D.C. thrift stop. It’s so small that it can sometimes be hit or miss, but is well worth stopping in for the jean selection alone. They also frequently have sales so check 

Fall is right around the corner. Luckily, D.C. has tons of cheap and sustainable ways to change up your wardrobe for sweater season. These are our tried-and-true spots to thrift clothes.

DC's Best Thrifting Spots

If you’ve lived in D.C. long enough, you’ve likely been dragged to one (or several) of your friend’s stand-up open mics and experienced the secondhand awkwardness that follows. But I urge you to give the scene a second chance. The DMV has a host of great venues that launched the careers of comedy legends, including Dave Chappelle, Martin Lawrence, and Wanda Sykes. Here are some of the best.

This tiny venue feels super underground while still bringing in some big comedy names from around the country. Go for their weekly Speakeasy Comedy Showcase featuring up-and-coming local comedians. They don’t serve food or alcohol, but the venue allows you to BYOB.

Probably the most iconic of D.C.’s comedy scene, DC Improv hosts everything from student showcases and open mics to comedians from HBO and Comedy Central. It’s a great place to hone your own stand-up skills.

This venue attracts more big-name comedians, almost all their shows are ticketed, and the venue is much more formal. They also have a full menu.

After seven years at Big Hunt, Underground Comedy opened its own comedy club in AdMo. They have a full bar and lots of free shows.

This org hosts monthly comedy shows in the tunnels under Dupont Circle. They’re hosting a DC Comedy Festival on Sept. 11 with nearly 100 talented local and international comedians.

The DMV has a host of great venues that launched the careers of comedy legends, including Dave Chappelle, Martin Lawrence, and Wanda Sykes. Here are some of the best.

The Best Comedy Venues in the DMV

Whether you like it spicy, slushy, sour, or foamy (?), here are the best spots in town to raise a salt-rimmed glass.

All of El Chucho’s margs are stellar, but this one with mezcal, habanero, and blood orange really can’t be beat. All tequila drinks are 20% off on Tuesdays. (Columbia Heights, $12)

Made with coconut and strawberry syrup plus fresh lime, this margarita sounds odd but is absolutely fire. They also have one of the best happy hour deals in the city. (Capitol Hill, $11)

No bells and whistles are needed at this mezcalería. Reader Katherine D. says, “They keep it simple with fresh lime and few ingredients, but it’s incredibly tangy and flavorful.”  (Capitol Hill, $13)

Great for frozen margs, they always have their classic and a fun rotating frozen flavor on tap. (Truxton Circle, $12)

Mezcal + pineapple + hibiscus + habanero = the most refreshing (and colorful) marg you can get in the District. (Columbia Heights, $14)

This classic-style marg has 'Salt Air' foam on top, with a hint of lime and pomegranate. Allegedly, it’s José Andrés' personal favorite. (Penn Quarter, $15)

The Best Margaritas In DC

As a big bike-thusiast, late summer/early fall is my favorite time to go riding in D.C. Whether you’re training for a race or just renting a city bike, here are the area's best off-street bike trails for your very own Tour de D.C. Be sure to wear a helmet and remember your 

D.C.’s most popular recreation trail, the CCT connects Georgetown and Silver Spring. It’s paved all the way to Bethesda and makes for a relaxing ride with plenty to see along the way. The best part is you can stop for ice cream in Georgetown when you’re done.

Running between Union Station and Silver Spring, the MBT is a central path for commuters but also makes for great recreation with lots of stops along the way. (I’ve even seen people make pub crawls out of it.) It also has some of the city’s best murals on route.

This bike path goes right along the river and is being expanded to 20 miles. This one is not a rail trail and follows the natural topography, making it more of a workout.

This path was once an important commercial transportation corridor. Most of it is unpaved and better for off-road bikes, but it has amazing views, especially in the spring and fall.

This is my daily go to as it is easily accessible from almost anywhere in Northwest D.C. The trail follows the river all the way up Rock Creek Park and uses parts of Beach Drive that have been closed to cars. But be careful, lots of walkers and runners share this trail.

Whether you’re training for a race or just renting a city bike, here are the area's best off-street bike trails for your very own Tour de D.C.

The Best Bike Lanes in the DMV

So, you’ve passed the ripe old age of 30, and all of a sudden, partying with the underage interns at Dan’s Cafe and Nellie's just isn’t cutting it. Reader Kendra B. says, “Every time I go out in D.C., I think I'm on the right track. Then, at 10:00 p.m., it's overrun by college kids. Where’s the best age-appropriate nightlife for 30 to 40-year-olds?”

Kendra, we’ve got your back. Here are our favorites:

Older doesn’t have to mean boring. One of the few truly cheap places in D.C. Go for one of their regular events, like the witching hour, comedy, or queer nights.

This Gatsby-esque speakeasy has excellent drinks, and unlike many of D.C.’s speakeasies, doesn’t attract “college kid clubbing” vibes after 10 p.m.

The warehouse setting gives this bar a casual vibe, but the drinks are high quality and primarily use homemade rum. You can even take a tour of the distillery. Last Call Bar around the block is another great option.

This classic dive bar caters to all ages and types. The upstairs deck has great tunes, board games, and fried foods. But maybe leave the beer-and-shot combos to the 20-year-olds.

Wait wait, hear us out! Sauf Haus definitely has a "younger" atmosphere, but the music tends to be early 2000s classics, which makes it the perfect hang for us geriatrics.

 by two bartenders from the Silver Lyan (another great 30+ choice). The drink menu is seasonal, but they always have the classics, some great frozen drinks, and an intimate but flashy ambiance.

What bars are we missing?

So, you’ve passed the ripe old age of 30, and all of a sudden, partying with the underage interns at Dan’s Cafe and Nellie's just isn’t cutting it. Here are some recommendations from your fellow geriatrics. 

The Best Spots To Party in DC After 30

I returned from the farmers market last weekend with a down payment’s worth of peaches and hands sticky from samples. That’s when I know peach season is in full swing. If you’re looking to go a little farther afield than your local market, these farms are all picking peaches through the end of August.

This is the closest farm to D.C. and has everything you need for a fun day in the country. Pick to your heart's content, then pet the baby goats and grab some jam at the farm’s market. Be sure to check their site as they don’t allow picking as certain peach varieties are ripening. ($3 admission, $1.99 per pound)

This farm has 16 varieties of peaches, with both white and yellow freestone varieties available right now. Besides picking peaches, you can also pick your own tomatoes, beets, berries, sunflowers, and more. (Free admission, pay by the container)

A traditional family farm that’s surrounded by gorgeous landscapes, this low-key farm lets you mix and match peaches, plums, and apricots in one box.  (Free admission, $25 per peck)

A little farther out, but worth the drive. This farm is huge with a 12-acre play area, market, wagon rides, and animals. Go for the peach fuzztival in August! ($10 - $12 admission, $1.99 per pound)

 - Westminster MD, (1-hour 30-minute drive)

Wagon rides and porta-potties in the field make this a great option for little ones. Do NOT skip the peach pie in the bakery or the petting zoo on the way out.

I returned from the farmers market last weekend with a down payment’s worth of peaches and hands sticky from samples. That’s when I know peach season is in full swing.