On Tap Magazine // June 2017

Drink. Dine. Do. 06.17

with

a View STEP OUTSIDE

COMIC CRAZE HEROIC ALEWORKS AWESOME CON

ROOFTOP BARS ULTIMATE PATIO GUIDE

+ 10 RAW BARS

FUNKY COCKTAILS BELLE & SEBASTIAN

on the scene

For more photos from these And other events, visit the online gallery at www.ontaponline.com.

Guests at the sixth annual Running of the Chihuahuas at The Wharf enjoyed a fun afternoon with great food from Sol Mexican, Red Hook and Captain Cookie food trucks, as well as cold Corona, Corona Light, Pacifico and Modelo beer, live music from Justin Trawick and the Common Good, and of course, the races.

Photos: Trent Johnson & Mark Raker

VIP Getaway Package to the Chesapeake Crab & Beer Festival Overnight Accommodations and VIP tickets to a Crab & Beer Lovers Dream Event on August 19 Get crackin’ and join us for the 7th annual Maryland Tradition, the Chesapeake Crab & Beer Festival, with a VIP overnight stay at Gaylord National Resort. An ALL-YOU-CARE-TO-TASTE extravaganza complete with over 60,000 crabs, lots of beer, arts & crafts, live music, and much more!

Gaylord National Resort’s exclusive VIP Chesapeake Crab & Beer Festival Package Includes: • One night room accommodations on Friday, August 18 or Saturday, August 19 • Two tickets to VIP Crab & Beer Fun Day including: • Souvenir mug and mallet • Unlimited tastes of the beer and wine on-site • ALL-YOU-CARE-TO-TASTE Large Crabs, Corn on the Cob, Cole Slaw and Potato Chips

GaylordNational.com or call (301) 965-4000 (refer to code D60) Valid Friday (8/18/17) or Saturday (8/19/17). Tax, resort fee and parking additional. Advance purchase required up to three days prior to arrival. Non-refundable rate cancellation permitted up to 72-hours prior to arrival.

Atrium upgrade may be available at prevailing rates. Limited number of rooms are available for this promotion. Offer does not apply to groups of 10 or more rooms or conventions. Offer cannot be combined with any other promotions. Advance reservations required. This event is not designed for children; they are welcome but you will find very little of interest to them. Other restrictions apply.

Table of Contents who is on tap

June 2017: Vol 19 No 8

on our

cover

Model: Alexandra Martone Venue: The Farm at 55 M Street

Photography: Nick & Erin Donner Design: Alanna Sheppard

Step outside, dc Drink. Dine. Do. 06.17

with

a View STEP OUTSIDE

COMIC CRAZE HEROIC ALEWORKS AWESOME CON

ROOFTOP BARS ULTIMATE PATIO GUIDE

+ 10 RAW BARS

FUNKY COCKTAILS BELLE & SEBASTIAN

We’re celebrating all things summer this month, with a cover story on unique outdoor yoga classes around the city. In keeping with that theme, we interviewed East Side Yoga Owner Alia J. Khan (her studio offers rooftop classes) and spoke with bartenders at hip rooftop bars.

Read about funky cocktail ingredients at Hank’s Cocktail Bar and other local hotspots, and 10 of our favorite raw bars in the DMV. But beautiful weather isn’t the only thing we’re excited about in June.

Awesome Con is coming to town, so we interviewed Dragon Ball’s Christopher Sabat and checked out comic book-themed brewery Heroic Aleworks. We also chatted with the Washington Mystics’ Emma Meeseeman, Belle and Sebastian guitarist Stevie Jackson and local hip-hop artist Airøspace. And last but certainly not least, a special thanks to photographer Erin Donner for capturing our stunning cover shot of yoga instructor Alexandra Martone at Up Top Acres’ The Farm at 55 M Street.

In this Issue Stage & Screen Events........................... 4 Christopher Sabat at Awesome Con.. . 6

n May Roundup

32

Sounds, Screams & Saiyans

Yoga with a View

Dragon Ball’s Christopher Sabat

Outdoor yoga in the District

Did You Know? Comic Books. . ............ 12 Drink, Dine, Do...................................... 13 A Day in the Life.................................... 28

n Sports Mystics’ Emma Meesseman................ 24 Yoga with a View................................... 32

n Dining New, Notable, No Longer.................... 36 Raw Bars. . ................................................ 40

28

58

A Day in the Life

Belle and Sebastian

East Side Yoga Founder Alia J. Khan

Q&A with guitarist Stevie Jackson

n Drinks Funky Cocktail Ingredients.. ............... 42 Behind the Bar....................................... 44 What’s On Tap?...................................... 46 Bierdo...................................................... 50

n Music Airøspace.......................................................54 Belle and Sebastian....................................58 Music Picks....................................................60

40

42

10 Raw Bars

Funky Cocktail Ingredients

Our top picks for fresh local seafood

Jessica Weinstein paves the way

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On Tap | June 2017 | www.ontaponline.com

Publisher Jennifer Currie

jennifer@ontaponline.com

Managing Editor Monica Alford

monica@ontaponline.com

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Trent Johnson trent@ontaponline.com

Print & Digital Design Alanna Sheppard alanna@ontaponline.com

Nick Caracciolo KEY ACCOUNT MANAGER Tom Roth tomroth@ontaponline.com

Digital EDITOR Adrianne Morris

adrianne@ontaponline.com

n Stage & Screen

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Founder James Currie

Events & promotions manager Shannon Darling shannon@ontaponline.com

OUTREACH COORDINATOR Kelcie Glass kelcie@ontaponline.com

Contributing Writers

Alex Benedetto, Michael Coleman, Jake Emen, Lani Furbank, Nick Hardt, Vanessa Mallory Kotz, Kayla Marsh, Kaitlyn McQuin, Courtney Sexton

Contributing Photographers

Erin Donner, Nick Donner, Jake Emen, Lani Furbank, Lindsay Galatro, John Gervasi, Ryan Hill, Cristina O’Connell, Devin Overbey, Mark Raker, Alanna Sheppard, Brittany Thomas, Mark Van Bergh On Tap Magazine is published 11 times per year. ©2017 by Five O’Clock Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. Use or reproduction of any materials contained herein is strictly prohibited without express prior written consent. www.ontaponline.com for more information.

Office

25 Dove St. Alexandria, VA 22314 Tel: 703-465-0500 Fax: 703-465-0400 www.ontaponline.com Calendar Submissions www.ontaponline.com/calendar Due by 15th of the month for print issue

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Stage & Screen Events

By Kaitlyn McQuin

RUNS THROUGH SUNDAY, JUNE 25

Urinetown What would you do if the government told you that they were removing all private toilets, installing public-only toilets and charging admission for use? Honestly, the way America is going at the moment, this wouldn’t surprise me in the least. Urinetown, a three-time Tony Award-winning musical, tells just the story. Laden in political satire and a little potty humor, when the town gets fed up and filled up, a hero decides to pave the way to a revolution and lead his people to political and pee-when-you-wanna freedom! As one does. Various dates and show times. Tickets are $40. NextStop Theatre Company: 269 Sunset Park Dr. Herndon, VA; www.nextstoptheatre.org

RUNS THROUGH SUNDAY, JULY 2

School for Lies tells the story of everything going wrong and “alternative facts becoming reality.” Did Kellyanne Conway write the summary of this play? Various dates and show times.

Tickets are $59-$118.

Shakespeare Theatre Company: 450 7th St. NW, DC; www. shakespearetheatre.org

THURSDAY, JUNE 1 - SUNDAY, JUNE 18 Crazy Mary Lincoln “Shopped like Nancy, stumped like Hillary and suffered like Jackie.”

Mary Lincoln was a First Lady who could hold her own with the press and in her personal life.

But what happened to her after her husband was shot? Crazy Mary Lincoln takes us into the life of Mary and her son, Robert Todd, after losing their beloved husband and father. Amidst the grief and starting anew, suffering from this loss has us all wondering: to whom does a President truly belong? Wednesdays through Sundays at 7:30 p.m. and Saturdays at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $25; $20 for Fringe button holders. Logan Fringe Arts Space: 1358 Florida Ave. NE, DC; www.pallastheatre.org

SATURDAY, JUNE 10 - SUNDAY, JUNE 11

Jesus Christ Superstar Signature Theatre is known for taking huge musicals and producing them in more intimate environments. It worked for Titanic, and it will work for Jesus Christ Superstar. Created by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Weber, this rock opera tells one of the most famous stories of them all. Untold stories between Jesus and Judas reveal themselves in this thrilling musical, and you can be there to witness it up close and personal. Various dates and show times. Tickets are $40-$99. Signature Theatre: 4200 Campbell Ave. Arlington, VA; www.sigtheatre.org School for Lies Described as delicious, sweet and sexy (similarly to how I describe cupcakes), School for Lies is another comedic masterpiece from STC favorite David Ives. Centered about a French aristocrat named Frank,

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In Jazz We Trust: Music in Motion In the second installment of In Jazz We Trust, acclaimed choreographer Princess Mhoon presents an evening of dance inspired by the richness of jazz and driven by politics, history and theatre. Both a Helen Hayes nominee and recognized by the

Huffington Post, Mhoon’s piece is not to be missed if you’re a fan of movement and music. Saturday at 8 p.m., Sunday at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15-$30. Dance Place: 3225 8th St. NE, DC; www.danceplace.org

THURSDAY, JUNE 15 - SUNDAY, AUGUST 27

on the scene

FOR MORE PHOTOS FROM THESE AND OTHER EVENTS, VISIT THE ONLINE GALLERY AT WWW.ONTAPONLINE.COM.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Here’s another one in the lineup from the Lord Lloyd-Webber, which means you can’t go wrong.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is a vibrant and uplifting musical set in the Old Testament that tells the story of Joseph, his friends and his amazing coat. What’s so amazing about it, you ask? Grab a ticket to one of the world’s most popular musicals and see for yourself. Another fun fact? This show comes with a meal… and we promise it’s more than just fish and bread. Various dates and show times. Tickets are $43.50-$60.50. Toby’s Dinner Theatre: 5900 Symphony Woods Rd. Columbia, MD; www.tobysdinnertheatre.com

SATURDAY, JUNE 17 - SATURDAY, JULY 8 When We Were Young and Unafraid In the early 1970s, before Roe v.

Wade, a businesswoman named Agnes transforms her bed and breakfast into a haven for women who are victims of domestic violence to seek refuge. It’s not until a girl named Mary Anne began influencing Agnes’ collegebound daughter that Agnes starts questioning everything she once knew and believed about the women she dedicated her life to helping. Thursday through Saturday at 8 p.m., and Sunday at 3 p.m.

Tickets are $35-$45. Keegan Theatre: 1742 Church St. NW, DC; www.keegantheatre.com

TUESDAY, JUNE 20 - SUNDAY, JUNE 25 RENT For those familiar with RENT, I’m sure you’re already singing about handcrafted beers down in local breweries. For those who aren’t, there’s no day but today to get schooled on the musical that’s been sweeping stages across the world for 21 years. RENT takes us on the journey of a group of friends and struggling artists living in New York City in the midst of the HIV/AIDS crisis. Through catchy and heartbreaking musical numbers, immense energy, and maybe even some swear words (my favorite!), this musical will take you on an emotional rollercoaster if there ever was one. Get ready, DC. Various dates and show times. Tickets are $48-$108. National Theatre: 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, DC; www.thenationaldc.org

The Apollo on H Street and On Tap Magazine hosted a grand opening with food from Whole Foods, Nando Peri-Peri and Red Rocks, and live jazz from the Tom Lagana Group.

PHOTOS: MARK VAN BERGH

www.ontaponline.com | JUNE 2017 | ON TAP

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S Sounds, sCre a ms &

a iy a n s

D r a g o n B a l l ’s

Christopher Sabat

By Trent Johnson Photo: Funimation YouTube channel

Christopher Sabat wasn’t born in a state, and he loves to tell you this. “You” being fans in line at a convention, Reddit AMA-ers or even the numerous actors screeching into a microphone behind a padded sound booth. He wants you to guess, so you’ll guess wrong.

“I’m really proud to say that I was born in Washington, DC,” Sabat says. “I don’t know, it makes me feel special. I’ll say, ‘I bet you $100 you can’t guess what state I was born in.’ And I’m always right.”

Sabat’s voice was made for radio, but he’s no disc jockey. Instead he’s a Saiyan, Namek, robot and, of course, human; it just depends on what character he’s lending his distinguishable vocal cords to on that day for that script.

From June 16-18 in the Washington Convention Center, Sabat will be lending his voice and time to the attendees at Awesome Con as a featured guest.

When I was younger, I used to connect things together.

Though Sabat was born in the not-state of DC, he moved to Houston, Texas as a child. His father worked for IBM as a database expert, so technology was always of interest in the household. For the young kid, sounds were a cause for fascination.

“I didn’t have the Internet,” he says. “All we had were people who were around, and for me that was engineers and programmer types. I always gravitated toward audio, and that’s what drew me into working with studios. I used to connect things together. I’d go to the library and check out sound effect records. I had multiple record and tape players, and I would play them all at the same time. Acting is important, but as a director and casting guy, I’m always interested in how people sound together.”

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On Tap | June 2017 | www.ontaponline.com

Sabat’s infatuation with sound paid dividends, as he received a scholarship to the University of North Texas as an opera singer. Due to a rather strict regimen of not drinking and talking (basically all college kids want to do), Sabat eventually transitioned to a major in radio, television and film. While he enjoyed the switch, his undeniable success story didn’t begin with graduation.

“I had maybe 40 credits left,” Sabat says. “I got offered this job in Fort Worth, and my thought was, ‘Should I take the job or get this piece of paper?’ My parents were livid, but it ended up being the best decision of my life.”

‘You like to do voices?’ and I said, ‘Yeah.’

If the words Saiyan or Namek seem familiar, it’s because the alien species belong to the Dragon Ball franchise – a manga-turned-anime about adventures with a child named Goku. At least that’s how it starts.

Akira Toriyama’s creation is largely cited as almost uniquely responsible, along with Pokémon, for permanently imprinting the Japanese genre into the American pop culture zeitgeist. If you watched the Toonami block of programming on Cartoon Network from 2003 until present, you’ve likely heard him bellow as the Saiyan prince Vegeta or growl as baddie-turned-father figure Piccolo. And while Sabat’s name appears in the credits of numerous other titles, it all started with this show.

“My involvement with Dragon Ball was pure luck,” Sabat says. “I mean, I was just a 20-something dude who was smoking a lot of weed, making music and hanging out. I wasn’t concerning myself with the future of anime, and neither was Funimation at the time. They were just trying to make a popular show.”

Popular is a massive understatement. Dragon Ball has transformed and evolved with countless revitalizations over the past two decades, including successful films in Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods and Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection F, and a new series currently airing on Cartoon Network and Crunchy Roll titled Dragon Ball Super. Along with the

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on the scene

For more photos from these And other events, visit the online gallery at www.ontaponline.com.

growth in episode counts and video game iterations, the franchise has undeniably been immortalized by the number of people on YouTube and social media who dedicate entire channels and websites to the fandom of Dragon Ball.

Photo: Funimation’s Facebook

“I really feel like everything has come together in this culmination of pop culture, and everything is coming back,” he says. “All these kids who were running home every day are in their 20s, have jobs and are nostalgic now. Everything that was popular is popular again.”

But how did Sabat get involved with the product? Basically, it’s another tale of “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know.”

“I had a friend, Carly Hunter, and she worked for Funimation when they had like four employees,” Sabat says. “They were just importing Dragon Ball and recording dubs in Canada. I used to joke about what she did for a living, which was take out the dirty things. She changed Master Roshi’s beer to juice, and ‘HELL’ to ‘HFIL.’”

I love [Vegeta] for that reason. I could’ve never played Goku – he’s too good.

Guests at the National Geographic Museum got an unfiltered look at the surprises, challenges and behind-the-scenes moments captured by explorers in the field.

Photos: Devin Overbey

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On Tap | June 2017 | www.ontaponline.com

As both a director and performer in Dragon Ball, Sabat has given life to a number of cartoon characters, but his portrayal as Vegeta is easily his most identifiable and prominent. The Prince of Saiyans has gone from bonafide villain to anti-hero to loving father and husband, but his ambition to best lead character Goku has remained his rock.

“As an actor, I feel so grateful in retrospect, growing up over the past 18 years. A lot of people think Goku is the lead to the show, but oddly enough, Vegeta has the best lines, the best character development and he repeatedly does amazing things.”

Vegeta also holds perhaps the most famous catchphrase in the English version of the series with, “It’s over 9,000.” Lately, the Saiyan badass has become, well, softer. Dragon Ball Super has allowed the character to grow into a role far different from the man who came to Earth in search of immortality, destruction and revenge.

“People ask me what my favorite thing about Super is, and the answer is that it exists,” Sabat says. “Playing Vegeta for the past 18 years was like being Bill Murray in Groundhog Day. Every video game is telling the same story; every redub is the same story. I wanted something new and fresh.”

One episode of the new series features the scowling Vegeta throwing away his ever-important pride to make sushi out of a giant octopus.

join the most innovative explorers in the world

JUST ANNOUNCED

A special LIVE taping of StarTalk with

Ne i l Degr a s s e t y s on a n d J a m e s Ca m e ron Included in your purchase of a ticket to Red Planet vs. Blue Planet, on Saturday June 17.

M O R E Ev e n t s Fe a t u r i n g Bob Ballard Discoverer of the Titanic Mo Rocca Host and Humorist Mike Isabella Top D.C. Chef Col. Chris Hadfield Astronaut Jason Silva Brain Games Host Nadia Drake Space Journalist Sam Harris Lead Singer of X Ambassadors Brian Skerry 2017 Rolex National Geographic Explorer of the Year Sylvia Earle Oceanographer Constance Adams Space Architect And many more !

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Awesome con Happenings

Photo: Courtesy of Awesome Con

n case you’re not hung up on the Dragon Ball franchise like I am, rest assured that there are tons of other adventures to get into during the weekend of Awesome Con. Whether you’re cozying up at a panel or exploring the endless possibilities of society’s future, this local comic con on June 16-18 will have fans covered.

David Tennant

In 2005, Tennant became the star of one of the most recognizable and famous television programs in the world: Doctor Who. As the tenth doctor in the series, Tennant picked up praise and accolades from fans, as readers of the franchise’s magazine voted him “Best Doctor.” The Scottish actor also recently played the villain in Marvel’s Jessica Jones on Netflix.

Saturday and Sunday.

Future Con

The brainchild of Awesome Con and Smithsonian Magazine, Future Con is a three-day science, technology and entertainment celebration meant to highlight the intersection of all of these subjects. The newest addition features Colonel Chris Hadfield hosting a special edition of Star Talk Live, and brings several NASA contributors and a number of other “thought-provoking” talks on parallel and multi-universe theory in sci-fi, antarctic dinosaurs and space lasers. No separate ticketing required. All three days.

Geek Night Comedy

This hybrid comedy show was created by geeky comics who want to tell jokes to geeky patrons. With standup and improv, the group has been famously running successful shows at numerous comedy joints along the East Coast, and has picked up props from several local news outlets, and even Sirius XM’s Monsters in the Morning. Two shows on Friday at 7 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. at DC Improv (1140 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC). Tickets are $17.

Pride Alley

Organized to unite LGBTQ activities around Awesome Con, this includes a dedicated section of “Artist Alley” and three days of panels and special events. On the Awesome Con website, the convention organizers stated, “We started to do more and create a bigger platform to better celebrate and educate DC’s LGBTQ community.”

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ON TAP | JUNE 2017 | www.ontaponline.com

Photo: Funimation’s Facebook

“I love the octopus scene,” Sabat says. “I love his interaction with Bulma [his wife]. It’s like how a really angry person approaches these situations, you know? It’s basically what he would say.”

Fans weren’t all that kind at the time.

Being synonymous with a legendary TV show allows those who have sacrificed time and effort to enjoy the fruits of their labor, but the series wasn’t necessarily expected to be as successful stateside as it became. In fact, the first people to approach Sabat at conventions during those early days were detractors.

“I got to go to conventions, and I started to see fans were watching the show,” he says. “They didn’t like some of the changes that had happened. We were working on really crude equipment back then, and it was all pretty janky.”

Some of the changes fans disparaged were dialogue revisions, or mistranslations that led to inconsistencies in the story. A lot of those modifications were to help American audiences transition into fans, and some were to curb the violence and raunchy humor. These days, the series is much more faithful to the original – a fact that Sabat is proud of.

“Most of what Funimation does now is try to maintain the original essence of any property. The scripts are well-written by experienced writers who truly understand Japanese terminology. With Dragon Ball, we do that too, but part of the fun with that show is we’re sort of able to play around with subtle changes.”

At Awesome Con, Sabat won’t be jeered at, as those days are long in the past. And while most patrons will ask for mundane catchphrases he’s uttered thousands of times at countless conventions, he’ll still maintain a chuckle – and a growl.

Awesome Con will be held at the Washington Convention center on June 16-18. Tickets for the weekend are $75; day pass prices vary.

Walter E. Washington Convention Center: 801 Mt. Vernon Pl. NW, DC; 202-249-3000; www.awesome-con.com

Look for ice cold Corona & Corona Light this summer at the following locations!

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n o i t i d E k o o B c i Com

n

so

By Trent John

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The world’s largest comic book collection belongs to the Library of Congress, with over 100,000 individual issues.

2

Our universe exists in the Marvel multiverse. Our Earth is Earth-1218.

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Superman once fought Muhammad Ali in a boxing match on a planet with a red sun, rendering Superman’s powers useless. Ali won by TKO. The first comic book convention, known as the “International Convention,” was held in New York in 1964.

The first movie based off of a superhero was the 1920 silent film The Mark of Zorro, and the first movie based off of a comic book super hero was 1941’s Adventures of Captain Marvel.

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Hulk was originally gray, but green was an easier color to print.

ON TAP | JUNE 2017 | www.ontaponline.com

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Monty Python’s John Cleese cowrote a comic about what would happen if Superman had been raised in the UK instead of the U.S.

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In 1964, Andy Warhol directed the first ever Batman movie, Batman Dracula, but the film was made without DC Comics’ consent.

All copies of the film were lost.

3

Michael Jackson wanted to play Spider-Man in a movie, so he tried to buy Marvel Comics in the 90s.

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Marvel’s The Avengers is the fifth highest grossing movie of all time, and its sequel Age of Ultron is the seventh highest.

Fun facts courtesy of the following articles: #1: www.buzzfeed.com/awesomer/completely-true-facts-only-nerds-will-appreciate?utm_term=.ma85ERpY6#.giAKdyx71 #2: www.marvel.wikia.com/Earth-1218 #3: www.whatculture.com/comics/michael-jackson-wanted-to-be-spider-man-tried-to-buy-marvel-comics.php #4: www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Superman:_True_Brit #5: www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Superman_vs._Muhammad_Ali #6: www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Mark_of_Zorro_(1920_film) and www.screencrush.com/history-of-comic-book-movies-captain-marvel/ #7: www.popmatters.com/feature/95236-the-history-of-comic-conventions/ #8: www.boxofficemojo.com/alltime/world/ #9: www.mentalfloss.com/article/63815/how-faulty-printer-changed-incredible-hulk #10: www.ign.com/articles/2016/03/24/17-batman-facts-you-probably-didnt-know?page=2

CA N

Y

TASTOU E

TH E

*Taste Well

*Live Well

PA RT

Y?

*Work Well

RESTON TOWN CENTER

FRI JUNE 16: 3PM-11PM * SAT JUNE 17: 12PM-11PM

in Da n c All Drink, Dine, Do event listings are provided by the venues hosting them.

FRIDAY, JUNE 2 - SATURDAY, JUNE 3 SAVOR American Craft Beer & Food Experience Discover the perfect pairing. Mingle with the people behind the beers. Delight your senses under the soaring columns of the historic National Building Museum. A must-attend for craft beer afficionados and foodies alike, SAVOR offers a memorable craft beer and food experience to a limited number of guests in a truly unique atmosphere. At SAVOR, 86 small and independent breweries from around the country showcase 172 beers, each one thoughtfully paired with a small plate that will dazzle your palate. The event features craft beer and small-plate pairings, thoughtfully paired to illustrate how well beer and food complement one another. There will be pairings from five specialty beer and food stations in the balcony overlooking the grand hall, including American Cheese Society, Choptank Oyster Company, Nathan Miller Chocolate, Monterrey Seafood and Red Apron Butcher. Friday and Saturday from 7:30-11 p.m. Tickets are $135. National Building Museum: 401 F St. NW, DC; www.savorcraftbeer.com

g

Fo o d

Wi ne

Li ve M

usic

Beer

FREE PARKING

at Reston Town Center both Friday & Saturday

BANDS + DJs Voted “Best Food Festival” in Northern Virginia By Virginia Living Magazine!

PINNACLE SPONSOR

PRESIDENTIAL SPONSORS

HOST SPONSOR

Tickets on Sale at

www.RestonTaste.com /restontaste

/restonchamber www.ontaponline.com | June 2017 | On Tap

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on the scene

For more photos from these And other events, visit the online gallery at www.ontaponline.com.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 7 Dine-N-Dash 2017 with Chef Jose Andres Leave your wallet at home and dine in 30 of DC’s hottest restaurants in Penn Quarter and 14th Street. Join Jose Andres, Andrew Zimmern and Ted Allen at the fifth annual Dine-N-Dash benefiting World Central Kitchen. 6-10 p.m.

Tickets are $125-$400. Dine-N-Dash: Various locations around Washington, DC; www.dinendash.info

SATURDAY, JUNE 3 Burgers, Brews and Country Tunes Diners can enjoy specialty burgers and more than 20 brews as the capital region's best solo country artists pay tribute to Music City. 3-6 p.m.

Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center: 201 Waterfront St. National Harbor, MD; www.marriott.com DC Jazz Festival: Jazz 'n Families Fun Days A fun family weekend with live jazz music featuring the finest talent in the region including vibrant galleries, art-making activities, an instrument petting zoo, interactive storytelling, a free film screening and much more. Featuring Janell Gill, David Schulman, Donato Soviero, Donvonte McCoy and John Lee. 10 a.m. Free admission. The Phillips Collection: 1600 21st St. NW, DC; www.dcjazzfest.org

Locals spent their Friday night relaxing at Yards Park in Capitol Riverfront with Jimi Smooth & HitTime, known for their “get up and boogie” style of performing.

Photos: Devin Overbey

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On Tap | June 2017 | www.ontaponline.com

Summerfest DC Summerfest DC is the official kickoff festival weekend of the summer on June 3-4. Get your own tasting glass, and enjoy your favorites of more than 125 carefully selected craft beers in a single afternoon. Cider and gluten-free options will be available. Unlimited tastes of wines, ciders and more.

15+ amazing food options for purchase. Live music all day from multiple acts on

the main stage, featuring DC's own White Ford Bronco headlining sessions 1 and 2.

All in the sunshine at what the Washington City Paper calls DC's best outdoor venue, the Half Street Fairgrounds.

11:30 a.m. Tickets are $19.95$84.95. The Fairgrounds: 1299 Half St. SE, DC; www.summerfestdc.com

TUESDAY, JUNE 6 Fifth Annual Taste of Adams Morgan Stroll, sip and sample your way through one of DC's most vibrant neighborhoods at the fifth annual Taste of Adams Morgan, benefiting Mary's Center. Bring your appetites because 15 of DC's best restaurants are opening their doors and serving samples of their chef's signature dishes.

And it's all for a good cause.

5-9 p.m. Tickets are $35–$75.

Adams Morgan: Washington, DC; www.eventbrite.com

FRIDAY, JUNE 9 Art on the Vine: Art Auction & Wine Tasting Party Art on the Vine features a 10-day online auction of artwork by an esteemed faculty of artists, culminating in a final round of bidding for ticket holders at a global wine-tasting party. The ticket includes event admission, access to the last bid silent auction, a souvenir wine glass, eight redeemable wine

MORE TASTE, FEWER CALORIES AND HALF THE CARBS OF BUD LIGHT.

©2017 MILLER BREWING CO., MILWAUKEE, WI Av. analysis (12 fl. oz.): 96 cals, 3.2g carbs, <1g protein, 0g fat. Per 12 fl. oz., Bud Light has 110 cals, 6.6g carbs. Taste testing performed by Institute for Perception, May 2015.

on the scene

For more photos from these And other events, visit the online gallery at www.ontaponline.com.

DRINK | DINE | DO WEDNESDAY, JUNE 7, 14, 21, 28

THURSDAY, JUNE 8 and JUNE 22

South Rail

Rockin’ the Block Enjoy live music and local fare at Canal Park in Capitol Riverfront. Grab the dog, bring a blanket and enjoy a chill evening in the park listening to the fun and relaxing sounds of bands like South Rail, Daniel Hill, Mike McHenry Trio and Zach Cutler. Concerts are free and run on select Wednesdays only. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free admission. Canal Park: 200 M St. SE, DC; www.capitolriverfront.org

tasting tags plus one full pour “coin,” and a complementary light buffet. A ticket is not required to bid online, but only ticket holders will be eligible to participate in the exciting final round of bidding. 7:3010:30 p.m. Tickets are $55.

The Art League Gallery: 105 North Union St. Alexandria, VA; www.theartleague.org

SATURDAY, JUNE 10

Locals enjoyed A Night at the Park, hosted by Nationals 1B Ryan Zimmerman and his ziMS Foundation. The benefit raised more than $3 million for the foundation.

Photos: Devin Overbey

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On Tap | June 2017 | www.ontaponline.com

Annapolis Arts & Wine Festival The annual festival is a weekend of fine art, handmade crafts, wine tastings from 24 Maryland wineries, live music all day long from 11 local bands, and delectable cuisine and activities for the whole family. It’s a two-day, outdoor celebration of the arts and Maryland’s fruit of the vine. Conveniently

Justin Trawick and the Common Good

Tunes in the Triangle Stop by with your friends and family for an intimate summer concert with Justin Trawick. Justin Trawick and the Common Good is a high-energy “urban Americana” band with music ranging from bluegrass to hip-hop. Alison Carney is set to perform on June 22. 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Free admission. Tunes in the Triangle: Corner of 5th and K Streets NE, DC; www. mountvernontriangle.org located at the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, a short distance from historic downtown Annapolis, it’s one of the most anticipated area events of the year. Additional features include a food truck rodeo, through our partnership with the Maryland Mobile Food Vending Association, live art demonstrations and training opportunities, kid-friendly activities, and of course, the opportunity to taste some of the best wine Maryland has to offer. Grab a glass of wine, cruise around the grounds, and get to know the thriving Annapolis art community. 10 a.m. Tickets are $0-$45. Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium: 550 Taylor Ave. Annapolis, MD; www.

AnnapolisArtsandWineFestival. com

FRIDAY, JUNE 9 - SUNDAY, JUNE 11

Bush

Celebrate Fairfax!

The 36th annual festival features concerts on nine different stages, with performances by Bush, Everclear, Vertical Horizon and Sunday Brew. In addition to live music, there will be a donut-eating contest, team trivia and a karaoke championship.

There will also be a petting zoo, carnival rides and plenty of great food. Each night ends with a fireworks show. Friday 6 p.m. to 12 a.m., Saturday 10-12 a.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Various ticket packages and admission prices available. The Sunday Brew General admission is available for all performances; shows are free with daily tickets to the event. $10-$15. Celebrate Fairfax: 4110 Chain Bridge Rd. Fairfax, VA; www.celebratefairfax.com DC Bourbon Bash!

Ticket includes six premium bourbon tastes at six of DC’s favorite bars along with live bluegrass music to get you in the Kentucky state of mind during this awesome daylong event. Specials on beer, food pairings and bourbon during the event. A portion of ticket sales to benefit local charities.

No cover at any bar. You get: six pours of Kentucky’s favorite spirit (one ounce serving size each) specials on beer pairings, food pairings and the featured bourbons when you find one you really like, bluegrass band photos and video, tons of fun along the way. 12 -10 p.m.

Tickets are $55. Chinatown: Various locations in DC; www.dcbourbonbash.com Okra’s Cajun Occasion 3 Celebrate Cajun heritage with live music, wine tastings, craft vendors and Cajun fare such as crawfish. Get ready to dance with the Dixie Power Trio, and dig into some crawfish provided

by Savoir Fare Limited. Kids activities such as balloon art, clowns and face painting will also be available. Free for kids 12 and under with paid adult.

12-4 p.m. Tickets are$12-$20.

Manassas Museum Lawn: 9101 Prince William St. Manassas, VA; www.okras.com Pride & Shine It's time to rise and shine. DC Pride weekend is approaching, and Urbana is welcoming everyone into its modern Italian doors to celebrate. Perfectly situated at the start of the Capital Pride parade route, Urbana is hosting an all-day Pride party. The full restaurant space, along with the Kimpton Hotel Palomar Washington DC banquet space, will be transformed into a lively Pride celebration complete with food, libations, entertainment and a fierce dance party. 10:15 a.m - 6 p.m. Urbana: 2121 P St. NW, DC; www.urbanadc.com Second Annual Petworth Vintage & New Fashion Fest Pop-Up Fia's Fabulous Finds and Willow Clothing, Home Gift, brings you a one day pop-up shop in DC's hippest neighborhood. While going store-to-store in search of new and vintage brands and trends can be a fun adventure, it is hard to deny the convenience of over 50 vintage and secondhand vendors and jewelers for

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In-Network with most PPO insurances www.ontaponline.com | June 2017 | On Tap

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HAPPY HOUR

FRIDAY, JUNE 9 & FRIDAY, JUNE 23

Monday - Friday, 4-7pm $5 local drafts, select wines

FADÓ BY NIGHT

Monday night Trivia at 8pm with DJ Pieman Wednesdays Crafty Hour Thursdays Live music featuring modern and Celtic rock.

Fridays DJ Night Saturdays Live bands for a craicing good time.

Visit our website for Late Night Drink Specials and music lineup. www.fadoirishpub.com/washington

Brunch Saturday and Sunday until 2pm featuring Bottomless mimosas and bloody marys We are the premier location for European sports Open early for most EPL games

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808 7TH ST | DC | 202.789.0066 | GALLERY PLACE METRO Please drink responsibly.

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Budweiser Summer Music Series Every Friday home game, the best place to pregame is at the Budweiser Terrace inside the ballpark. Enjoy cold Bud and Bud Light and great tunes from local bands like Hand Painted Swinger and 7 Deadlies. Concerts run from 5-6:50 p.m. First pitch is at 7:05 p.m. Nationals Park Bud Light Terrace: 1500 S Capitol St. SE, DC; www.washington.nationals.mlb.com men, women and home coming directly to you on one day, and on one street. 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Free admission. Fia's Fabulous Finds: 806 Upshur St. NW, DC; www.eventbrite.com

SUNDAY, JUNE 11

Retro Night @ FireFlies June 23rd 7pm Celebrate 80s & 90s with Live Music by Cognitive Behavior Tap Takeover with

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On Tap | June 2017 | www.ontaponline.com

Capital Pride Festival The 42nd annual Pride Festival in the nation's capital will be held on Pennsylvania Avenue.

The festival includes three stages of both national and local talent, and will host 300 exhibitors who are there to promote their services to the community. Celebrate the LGBTQ+ communities of DC with your favorite cocktails, beers and wines. VIP packages are available for purchase.

Festival Exhibit 12-7 p.m.

Concert Stage 1-10 p.m. Free admission. Capital Pride Festival: Pennsylvania Avenue between 3rd and 7th Streets in NW, DC; www.capitalpride.org

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 14 Glow Yoga on the Mall Join DC Fray and other district yogis for the epic Summer Glow Yoga on the Mall series.

All levels welcome. Meet them

on the mall as their favorite instructor from Balance Gym, Andrea, leads them through an hour long Vinyasa Flow.

Bring your own mat. You'll glow against the skyline and have one of the best views during the day's golden hour. 8 p.m.

Tickets are $25. National Mall: Between 3rd and 4th Streets NW, next to Madison Drive in NW, DC; www.dcfray.com The School of Lies YPN Night From the comic imagination of Shakespeare Theatre Company (STC) favorite David Ives comes a timely take on Molière’s ruthless satire. Frank is a French aristocrat who despises his society of liars and doesn't mind telling them so. His wellaimed barbs wreak havoc in a world of pompous suitors and extravagant ladies, until rumors ricochet and alternative facts become reality. Buy a ticket to Young Prose Night (YPN), and you'll be invited to a postshow reception with the cast, including complimentary drinks courtesy of On Tap Magazine/ Troegs Brew Company and STC's wine sponsor, Constellation Brand Wines. 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $25. STC’s Lansburgh Theatre: 450 7th St. NW, DC; www.shakespearetheatre.org

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FRIDAY, JUNE 16 Architects of Air The inflatable walk-in sculpture from the UK will be part of this summer's Columbia Festival of the Arts weekend. This three-day event includes live music, kids' entertainment and crafts, a fine arts and craft sale, festival food fare, a beer garden, wine tastings and a variety of activities for all ages.

All-day event. Free admission.

Columbia Lakefront: 5575 Sterrett Pl. Columbia, MD; www.columbiafestival.org Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Join us at the festival for a great day of beer sippin’, bourbon tastin’, music listenin’ and barbeque eatin’. Your admission buys you a sampling glass so you can enjoy an all-you-careto-taste samplings of beer and bourbon. Some of the best barbeque vendors are

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onsite if you get hungry, all while enjoying seminars in the tasting theater and live music all day. The Plateau at National Harbor, MD: 165 Waterfront St. National Harbor, MD; www.beerandbourbon.com BYT & Nat Geo's Excellent Adventure: Explorers Festival After Hours Featuring a big outdoor courtyard to frolic in with bars, food trucks, photobooths, lasers, DC fray lounge and more.

Nerd out with lightning talks from Nat Geo explorers. 8 p.m. to 12:30 am. Tickets are $25-$35.

National Geographic Museum: 1600 M St. NW, DC; www. brightestyoungthings.com Taste of Reston Taste of Reston, produced by the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce, is the largest outdoor food festival in the area and was voted Northern

On Tap | June 2017 | www.ontaponline.com

Virginia’s best food festival

by Virginia Living for the past six years. Come to the Reston Town Center for two days of restaurants and community vendors, live entertainment on three stages, the Family Fun Zone and Wine ‘n' Dine area. Friday 3-11 p.m. and Saturday 12-11 p.m. Go to www.restontaste.com for more information on food and drink tickets. Reston Town Center: 11900 Market St. Reston, VA; www.restontaste.com

SATURDAY, JUNE 17 30th Annual Bark Ball The 30th edition of Washington’s only black tie ball for canines and their human companions takes place when the Humane Rescue Alliance’s Bark Ball returns. This DC event features 1,000 attendees and 500 dogs in a formal affair, gracing the elegant ballroom of the Washington Hilton.

The benefit kicks off with a reception, an extensive silent/

online auction and “Bark Bar,” followed by dinner, a formal program, live auction and dancing. Leashed dogs are encouraged to attend (no retractable leashes please). 6-10 p.m. $150-$250. Washington Hilton: 1919 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC; www.barkball.org Around The World Cultural Food Festival Around the World Cultural Food Festival brings together diverse, authentic, living traditions from different countries around the world. The mission is to preserve and strengthen the culture of each country while presenting it to the public throughout the course of this event and give all the participants a chance to learn from one another and understand the cultural differences and similarities. The public will have the opportunity to learn, eat, dance, shop and witness these vibrantly connected cultures and create their own connections with each and every single country

presented in the event. 11 a.m.

Free admission. Washington Monument: 2 15th St. NW, DC; www.aroundtheworldfestival. com Scratch Vinyls, Sip Wine & Spray Paint Come for wine (or sparkling grape/apple juice) and handson DJ and graffiti lessons at their headquarters in the heart of Columbia Heights, located just blocks away from the Columbia Heights Metro stop. Graffiti your name on a brand new 9-foot tall practice wall. Learn how to scratch some vinyl like the coolest DJs. Do both and a lot more. Space is limited so RSVP to reserve your spot on the ones and twos before someone else cops it first. 2-4 p.m. Words Beats & Life: 1525 Newton St. NW, DC; www.eventbrite.com

Third Annual Baltimore Wine Fest Experience 160+ wines from around the world, gourmet eats provided by local eateries, live music, chef cooking demonstrations, wine seminars, craft beers and spirits, unique shopping and a family zone. In the event of severe, inclement weather, the event will be held on Sunday, June 18. 12-7 p.m.

Tickets are $10-$89. Canton Waterfront Park: 3001 Boston St. Baltimore, MD; www. baltimorewinefest.com

MONDAY, JUNE 19 Metropolitan Washington BBQ & Grilling Week The first annual Metropolitan Washington BBQ and Grilling Week, is presented

by Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington until June 25. Restaurants across the region will help guests satisfy their cookout cravings, offering "Flavors of Summer in the

City" themed menus of grilled, smoked and spiced dishes. BBQ and Grilling Week culminates in the 25th Annual Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle, which takes place along Pennsylvania Avenue NW on June 24 and June 25, complete with cooking contests, live music and beverage gardens. $11-$33.

Metropolitan Washington BBQ & Grilling Week: Various locations around Washington, DC; www.bbqweekdc.com

FRIDAY, JUNE 23 BMD's 21st Season Adieu!

Bowen McCauley Dance, DC's premiere professional contemporary dance company, presents its final season performance with a new premiere to celebrate its return to Signature Theatre.

Premiered in fall 2016, Petit Four is choreographed by Ilana Goldman and takes its lead from the music, comprised of movements from various

Antonio Vivaldi Cello Concerti.

A visualization of the score, Petit Four is light, playful and energetic, with other parts contemplative and subdued.

Saturday ticket holders can attend BMD's after party summer bash in the lobby.

8p.m. Tickets are $40. The Signature Theatre: 4200 Campbell Ave. Arlington, VA; www.sigtheatre.org Rock the Block! The Rockets Come enjoy free live music in the City of Fairfax on the fourth Friday of the month from May to October. The series features popular bands from the DC area and the East Coast playing rock, country, Top 20, 90s and more. You can grab a refreshing beer or glass of wine while you enjoy the live music and great food choices. 6:30-9:30 p.m. Free admission. Old Town Square: 3999 University Dr. Fairfax, VA; www.fairfaxva.gov

www.ontaponline.com | JUNE 2017 | ON TAP

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SATURDAY, JUNE 24

Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle Now celebrating its 25th year, the Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle has become one of the largest and most unique food and music festivals in the country. Celebrating the art of cooking and the joy of eating, the Barbecue Battle offers residents of the Greater Washington area and throughout the east coast, the chance to enjoy America’s favorite pastime. The event has received numerous awards such as being named “One of Five Can’t Miss Summer Festivals in the Country” by CNN and a “Top 10 BBQ Event” by the Travel Channel, just to name a few. Saturday 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sunday 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Tickets are $15-$30. Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle: 1100 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, DC; www.bbqindc.com

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On Tap | June 2017 | www.ontaponline.com

SATURDAY, JUNE 24 Northern Virginia Summer BrewFest The 10th annual Northern Virginia BrewFest, presented

by Mad Fox Brewing Company, returns to the Special Events Center at Bull Run Regional Park. The two-day event will feature seasonal beers, meads and ciders from more than 45 regional breweries, educational programs, live music, corn hole and more.

Take your sampling glass and use it wisely, trying spring and summer seasonal brews. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tickets are $35.

Bull Run Regional Park: 7700 Bull Run Dr. Centreville, VA; www.novabrewfest.com Vine on the Waterfront The annual Vine on the Waterfront festival returns to the beautiful Oronoco Bay Park.

The festival is a community fun filled event featuring the best tastes of local foods and wine, artisans, a children’s corner

and the best bands playing live. It is easily accessible by car, Metrorail or Dash Bus. This is event is a rain or shine event, there are no refunds or exchanges. 12-6 p.m. Tickets are $15. Oronoco Bay Park: 100 Madison St. Alexandria, VA; www.vineonthewaterfront.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 29 Smithsonian Folklife Festival The Smithsonian Folklife Festival is held outdoors on the National Mall in DC until the first week of July. The festival will feature performances such as "Circus Arts" and "On the Move: Migration Across Generations," plus a festival reunion and other special events. Festival hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with special events taking place most evenings. 6:30 p.m.

Free admission. Smithsonian Folklife Festival: National Mall in Washington, DC; www.festival.si.edu

her newest teammate, players she looks up to and flying in airplanes.

From Belgium to DC

Washington Mystics’ Budding Superstar

Emma Meesseman

On Tap: When did you start playing basketball, and what attracted you to it?

Emma Meesseman: I started playing when I was five years old. At that time, I just loved playing all kinds of sports with a ball. I did like basketball a lot though, because my mother used to play and achieved a lot of things in Belgium. I wanted to do the same thing and be better.

OT: What are your personal expectations for this season?

EM: I just want to get better at every aspect of the game. Overseas, I have been working a lot on shooting the ball quicker. It’s more technical, so I’ve got to keep bringing that to the court.

OT: Some people have mentioned you as an MVP candidate. Is that a goal of yours?

EM: My ultimate goal is to get that ring with this team. I will try to do my best and give everything in order to do so, but individual titles have never been a goal for me.

OT: I know you haven’t played much with Elena Delle Donne yet, but what has that experience been like so far?

EM: It has been great. She’s a great player and person, and it is so fun to even think about all the possibilities that we have with her. We’re still getting to know each other better, but I am sure we’ll have a fun season.

OT: Is this the most talented team you’ve ever played on? What do you expect from the Mystics?

EM: It pretty much is. It is definitely the one that gives me the best feeling and makes me really believe that we can achieve something big. I don’t want to think too far [ahead] already. I am more of a person that takes everything step by step, game by game. We just have to win as many [games] as possible in order to get to the playoffs.

By Trent Johnson The Washington Mystics’ Emma Meesseman is an extremely busy person. The 6’4” center from Belgium had just ended her EuroLeague Women season with BC UMMC Ekaterinburg before heading to DC for the start of the Mystics campaign in late

24

ON TAP | JUNE 2017 | www.ontaponline.com

Photos: Courtesy of Getty Images

May. But before getting comfortable, she prepared to head back home to participate in the FIBA world championship qualifiers with her national team. Prior to her venture to Europe last month, we had a chance to speak with the budding superstar about

OT: What players do you look to for inspiration and improvements on your game?

EM: I don’t watch specific players for certain moves. But I can watch any basketball game and see moves and think to add them. I do like the style of Larry Bird a lot. I find myself more and more looking up clips of him.

OT: A lot of European players adopt NBA teams growing up. Did you adopt a team, and if so, do you still root for them?

EM: Growing up, I never watched a single NBA game. I watched some highlights of

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is like magic. To me, that is perfect basketball.

OT: It must be tough to balance playing on pro and national teams.

Do you ever get tired of traveling around the world so much? What do you do on all those plane rides?

EM: This year is the first year I combined the national team with the WNBA. I’ll have to wait and see how that goes, but on both teams, there is a great staff that helps me the best they can. It is kind of hard to be away from home year-round, to keep playing basketball nonstop.

But as long as I take care of my body and keep loving basketball, I fully enjoy it. I do have to admit that traveling used to be way more exciting than it is now. Being on a plane is boring now, and I hope every single time that I’ll be able to sleep to pass the time.

OT: Is it hard to watch the Mystics when you’re away for prolonged amounts of time?

EM: I have not been in that situation just yet, but can for sure imagine it will be hard to see them play while I am overseas. But I would feel the same if I was not able to play with my national team.

OT: What’s your favorite part of playing in DC? EM: The city is amazing to me. It is the place that feels closest to home for me. Also, the fact that when I came here, Coach T [Mike Thibault] was completely rebuilding the team; I was kind of here from the start.

It’s so cool to see the progression we have made, and to play with teammates that are friends. different games, but I never rooted for a team. Since playing in the WNBA, I’ve gotten to watch games on TV, so if there is one team that I look up to, it’s the San Antonio Spurs. The way that they play together

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On Tap | June 2017 | www.ontaponline.com

For more information on the Washington Mystics’ 2017 season, visit mystics.wnba.com.

EVERY CLIMB DESERVES A REFRESHING FINISH

©2016 COORS BREWING COMPANY, GOLDEN, CO

A Day in the

Life

East Side Yoga Founder

ALIA J. KHAN

O

n a breezy summer evening, you can find East Side Yoga’s owner, Alia J. Khan, up on her studio’s gorgeous rooftop leading a yoga class to a carefully curated musical selection or live band performance. The “recovering attorney turned social entrepreneur” worked long hours at a big international firm where she was glued to her BlackBerry before a series of events led her to seek refuge in yoga, which eventually transformed her outlook on life. Now, Khan has made it her life mission to help more Type A corporate professionals like the old her escape from their busy daily lives and take better care of themselves. You don’t need to be a vegan or green juice lover to come to her classes – all are welcome – and she even offers complimentary chocolates at the check-in counter. We met up with Khan at East Side Yoga to check out her studio space and hear more of the yogi’s story.

On Tap: How did you go from being an attorney to a yoga studio owner?

Alia J. Khan: My father passed away in 2011, and it was very sudden and tragic for a number of reasons. It really woke me up to the fact that we just don’t know how much time we have in this life, and that I didn’t love what I did. I stumbled on this listing.

There were no photos and the description just said, “1,600 square feet in the middle of a residential block in Capitol Hill.” The only photo was the front of an auto body shop.

I walked in and immediately knew I had to open a yoga studio in this space.

OT: What is it about being outside on your studio’s rooftop that takes a yoga class to another level?

AJK: I am somebody who really thrives on fresh air and being outdoors, so any

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Photos: Lindsay Galatro

By Alex Benedetto

ON TAP | JUNE 2017 | www.ontaponline.com

opportunity I get to take an activity outside, I’ll do it. Fresh air tastes and smells better, and we do so much deep breathing in yoga, so obviously the quality of the air you’re breathing makes it better. In the city, you have a different feel to the air and then the city noise, but you also hear the birds and crickets and feel the breeze. It’s a mini-retreat that you can take every day if you want to. I definitely find that my body moves better and yoga itself works better in the sunshine or fresh air with a little bit of humidity. You actually move more easily and can go deeper into the practice when your body is a little bit warmer, and that’s an easier state to achieve naturally.

OT: What rooftop classes do you offer, and when do they occur during the week?

AJK: We offer at least one rooftop class every

CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT Coffee Butter Sunshine Bodies of water Music day, weather permitting, and they are the same price as our regular class offerings. We mix up the class types that we do outside, so everyone can find something that works for their schedule and ability. We offer our sunrise class twice a week, which we’ll do outdoors if weather allows. On weekend mornings, our 10 a.m. class is outside, and we have our Sunday evening sunset class on the rooftop as well.

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Flynn Realty Associates Fulton Bank Griffin-Owens Insurance Group Herndon Dairy Queen Linda Sells Herndon (Pearson Smith Realty) Meadows Farms Nurseries Mid-Atlantic Power Northwood Construction Select Wines Stitely & Karstetter, CPAs Tri-Tek Engineering Zentek Consulting

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ALL-TIME FAVES Going out on the boat at home in Texas Cooking for people she loves Enjoying a wonderful meal Live music in small venues Traveling and getting to know the heart of the place OT: What sets your rooftop classes apart from other studios or outdoor yoga experiences?

AJK: We are still the only studio in DC proper with our own dedicated rooftop space, as most studios tend to borrow from other spaces. There is a novelty to doing yoga in a place that is not designed for it, and that is super fun in its own way. But there’s also something really great about doing a rooftop class. Our rooftop was designed for yoga to be practiced, and we offer it every day so it can be your daily practice. There

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On Tap | June 2017 | www.ontaponline.com

are rubber tiles on our roof so it’s not too hard, but also level. We have all of our props available for people to use – blankets, straps and blocks – to help customize your practice, and we have our sound system outdoors to help incorporate our music.

OT: How would you describe East Side Yoga’s culture?

AJK: We really try to make everybody feel welcome here. [Our customers] are either super hippy-dippy, or the opposite that turn it into a workout and skip the mental or spiritual aspect of it altogether. And our goal is to find a happy medium. I think what makes yoga truly powerful is that connection between the mind and the body, but it has to be taught in a way that makes sense to people and resonates with their daily lives.

OT: Any fun summertime activities planned for the rooftop?

AJK: On the first Friday of each month starting in June, we have a BYOB happy hour after evening classes. People are welcome to invite friends who don’t do yoga to

East side MUST-HAVES Rooftop yoga classes Infused water Yummy chocolates Resting under the starry indoor studio sky Handmade self care items come for happy hour after class with us. We also do a rooftop concert series on select Saturday evenings during the summer from 8-10 p.m. We bring in a live musician for an hour-long practice and then afterwards, we offer dessert and drinks, and they’ll play another set and everyone can enjoy the music. Basically, I’m finding as many ways as possible to work all the things I love into the studio.

East Side Yoga: 518 10th St. NE, DC; 202-600-9860; www.eastsideyogadc.com

on the scene

FOR MORE PHOTOS FROM THESE AND OTHER EVENTS, VISIT THE ONLINE GALLERY AT WWW.ONTAPONLINE.COM.

Photos: Nick & Erin Don

ner

the

On Tap spent a beautiful May morning at the Farm at 55 M Street, a rooftop urban farm hosted by the 55 M Street office building in Capitol Riverfront. The farm is one of Up Top Acresâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; five spaces (learn more on page 35). Our cover model is yoga instructor Alexandra Martone, who teaches Monday evening classes at the unique space for beginners and experienced yogis alike. Photographers Nick and Erin Donner captured stunning shots of Martone at 55 M Street, and Erin even spotted her during an impressive handstand (see above). Learn more about Martone at www.alexandramartone.com and Up Top Acres at www.uptopacres.com.

Dock 79 hosted a grand opening party with on-site restaurants The Salt Line and All-Purpose and brews from neighbors Dacha Beer Garden and Bardo Brewing.

PHOTOS: MARK VAN BERGH

www.ontaponline.com | JUNE 2017 | ON TAP

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By Vanessa Mallory Kotz

with a View

Beer, brunch and even baby goats can be part of your yoga experience these days. If you’re new to the practice, or need a way to relax and play, these options are a great way to spend an hour. This summer, rooftops, parks and outdoor spaces all over town are hosting yoga classes (many of them free), and what could be more energizing than doing sun salutations by a sparkling pool overlooking our beautiful city?

For that poolside experience, Epic Yoga holds morning classes on the roof of the Embassy Row Hotel in Dupont Circle. Start the morning with vinyasa flow high above the bustle of one of the most famous neighborhoods in DC. Purchase a pool pass at the front desk and you can make a day of it, swimming in the refreshing turquoise water and sunning before heading off to lunch, seeing an exhibition at the Phillips Collection or browsing the recently expanded stacks at Kramerbooks.

Live on the Hill? Rooftop yoga classes are held daily at East Side Yoga, where you’re invited to “feel the sunshine on your face as you practice amidst a lush, fragrant garden full of herbs and flowers.” It’s the first yoga business in DC to build an outdoor studio on its rooftop, and it’s become a warm, welcoming gathering place for neighborhood yoga enthusiasts.

Soothing playlists mingle with the sound of birdsong from the trees, giving city dwellers a much-needed taste of nature. After evening

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ON TAP | JUNE 2017 | www.ontaponline.com

Photo: Nick Donner

classes, stick around for BYOB happy hour amongst the greenery.

Alexandra Martone leads classes at the Farm at 55 M Street, one of Up Top Acres’ urban farms growing on rooftops throughout the city.

“It’s right next to Nationals [Park], and has a gorgeous view of the city and the National Monument,” she says.

Her goal is to help “DC Type A people relax.”

Photo: Lindsay Galatro

There are plenty of studios with a competitive edge, which is a natural impulse for the young, driven professionals who flock to the District.

Instead, Martone wants to create a vibe that is welcoming to all body types and abilities.

“For me, yoga has been more of a personal practice,” she says. “I actually injured myself last summer. I kind of lost sight of what yoga is about.”

Martone has been practicing yoga for 10 years, since she was 15. As she became more flexible, the yogi started posting photos on social media in increasingly difficult and impressive poses.

“It’s fun to show people what you’re doing, but I probably got too caught up in it and pushed myself too hard.”

The instructor of three years is still recovering from her injury, taking it slow and bringing this experience to her students.

“I stepped back and reevaluated what I was doing,” she explains, after realizing, “everyone’s body is different. Don’t worry about what the person next to you is doing. It doesn’t matter what it looks like, just how it makes you feel.”

Kathleen O’Keefe, one of Up Top Acres’ three cofounders, says, “I often find yoga a bit intimidating, and studios a little too stuffy for my taste. I love being able to practice yoga outside, and think being able to take in the city skyline from a rooftop farm is a great respite from city life.”

This sentiment is echoed by Kelly Carnes,

Outdoor

Classes East Side Yoga holds rooftop classes daily (times vary) in a lush garden of herbs, trees and flowers. After evening class, stick around for BYOB happy hour and watch the sun set over Capitol Hill. 518 10th St. NE, DC; www.eastsideyogadc.com

Photo: Rosa Pineda

who has led yoga classes on the Kennedy Center’s rooftop terrace and started the yoga program on the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden plaza in 2015.

“I like to have a lot of fun with my practice,” Carnes says. “I like to play, and I like to create accessibility points to yoga. There’s a stereotype that you have to be a fit, skinny, blond woman in expensive Lululemon pants.

But yoga is beautiful because it’s diverse. It’s customizable, and it should be.”

Certified as a yoga instructor in India, she recently left a career in public relations to explore other aspects of life. She discovered Congressional Cemetery while walking her dog in the neighborhood. The 30-acre green space is an off-leash dog park. Now she teaches a weekly all-levels class, Yoga Mortis, at the cemetery, just up the street from the Stadium-Armory Metro stop.

“Cemeteries back in the 19th century, in the Victorian era, functioned as city parks,” she says, “because we didn’t have separate spaces for recreational activity.”

Families came to picnic and enjoy the warm weather and cool grass. After World War II, city parks were established, and cemeteries were neglected. Because it’s located next to Capitol Hill, people recognized the cemetery as a green space celebrated by dog walkers who got together to rehabilitate it.

She developed a communications plan for the cemetery, also a nonprofit organization, for her capstone project as a master’s degree candidate at Georgetown University. She recommended programming, including yoga, to revitalize the nearly forgotten park-like locale in the heart of the city.

She was excited about “the idea of being able to bring new people into the space who might not otherwise have an opportunity or

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On Tap | June 2017 | www.ontaponline.com

even know about it. People can have a really fulfilling experience in the space that brings them joy.”

Her teaching style combines vinyasa poses and a lighthearted touch, usually based on a theme.

She’s particularly fond of epic movie soundtracks, using them as an inspiration for sequencing poses to tell a story with the body, keeping it safe, of course. She created a Batman class that incorporates wing shapes into the session, while her Star Wars program transforms the Warrior II pose into a Jedi vs. Sith battle. Students face each other across their mats, and “as we extend and come back down, we’ll bring our light sabers with us,” she says, making “zsoom” sounds mimicking a saber in action.

“When we squat down, we’ll be in our Yoda pose,” she adds.

Carnes wants to “put a smile on people’s faces so they don’t take it or themselves too seriously, and allow themselves to try something new.”

Carnes doesn’t hesitate to play with the setting. On April 30 (the halfway point in the year to Halloween, and the peak of cherry blossom season), she led a zombie-themed class.

“It’s the best place outside of the touristridden Tidal Basin to see the blossoms,” she explains. “It’s gorgeous, it’s magical.”

Clearly, they all had a lot of fun.

“We all dressed up in our zombie gear. I had a Halloween playlist, and we got spooky.”

If all this sounds too much for you, and you just want to relax in a pretty setting, Martone sums it up best.

“There are plenty of studios, teachers and styles to try. Everyone is on their own personal journey, with their own body, goals and needs.”

Epic Yoga on the roof of the Embassy Row Hotel in Dupont Circle invites preregistered yogis to Sunday morning vinyasa flow class by the pool at 8 a.m. 2015 Massachusetts Ave. NW, DC; www.epicyogadc.com Free Outdoor Yoga at CityCenterDC is on Tuesdays at 6 p.m. through June 27. The huge space surrounded by swanky shops has room for dozens of yoga lovers.

10th & H Streets in NW, DC; www.citycenterdc.com Monday Evening Yoga at 6 p.m. Up Top Acres urban farm means vinyasa among the vegetables. Breathe in the smell of fresh earth and tasty greens after a long day at work.

The Farm at 55 M Street, 55 M St. SE; www.uptopacres.com Spark Yoga in the Park features free yoga classes in Strawberry Park in Fairfax’s Mosaic District on Sunday mornings at 9 a.m. and Thursday evenings at 6:30 p.m. All levels are welcome and no preregistration is necessary. Strawberry Park in Mosaic District, Fairfax, VA; www.sparkyoga.com Yoga Mortis is a drop-in class offered every Wednesday at 6 p.m. in Congressional Cemetery, either outdoors or in the picturesque chapel located at the heart of the 30-acre green space. The cemetery also serves as an off-leash dog park, so a friendly dog or two might join you. 1801 E St. SE, DC; www.congressionalcemetery.org

Up Top Acres

Our cover story was shot on location at the Farm at 55 M Street, one of the best spots in DC to experience rooftop yoga and home to one of Up Top Acres’ urban farm spaces. Up Top was founded in 2014 by three friends: Kristof Grina, Kathleen O’Keefe and Jeff Prost-Greene. The DC natives met while attending Wilson High School, and after graduating from college, they regrouped with a bold idea to make “eat local” closer to home. They established a series of rooftop farms on high rises in DC and Maryland.

“I studied urban planning and have always been interested in how we can create more sustainable, holistic cities,” O’Keefe says. “I loved that rooftop farming intersects a lot of issues facing our cities today, from local food systems, to storm water management, to access to green space. Kristof, Jeff and I have strong ties to DC and our community, and wanted to start something that improves our hometown and the lives of the people that live here.”

They run five farms in all and host events at the M Street location. They offer yoga, farm tours, pop-up dinners with local chefs, tastings and cocktail hours.

“We want to open up our farms to as many people as possible,” O’Keefe says, “so we also host workshops about growing food and offer educational programming to local schools.”

For a list of Up Top Acres farms and events, visit www.uptopacres.com.

Photo: Up Top Acres’ Instagram

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www.ontaponline.com | June 2017 | On Tap

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New | Notable | No Longer

Whaley’s seafood

Photo: Rey Lopez

By Lani Furbank On Tap keeps locals in the know about the hottest new food and drink spots around town, the top culinary news of the month and recent closings. Read on to get the inside scoop on what’s new, notable and no longer in the DC area.

NEW

Delirium waffle

building, which is more than 200 years old. Walking into the bar and dining room feels like entering someone’s home (mind you, someone with an affinity for Belgium).

The beverage program stars the Delirium product line from Huyghe Brewery, as well as more than 250 beers, most of them Belgian. Trust the knowledgeable servers to guide you toward something you’ll enjoy. The brasserie-style menu is heavy on seasoned frites and mussels cooked in Delirium beer. 101 South King St. Leesburg, VA; www.deliriumcafe.us

Photo: Lani Furbank

Delirium Open: May 15 Location: Leesburg Lowdown: It’s slightly surprising that an international beer brand would set up the first ever U.S. outpost in Leesburg, Va. But for owner and manager Curtis Allred, his beer-loving community is a uniquely perfect location for Delirium Café, which he has been trying to bring stateside ever since his first visit to the Brussels original. As a native of Northern Virginia, I’m certainly not complaining. The café is in good company in Loudoun County, which has more than 20 breweries now, with new ones on the way. Fans of the pink elephant theme have already begun to flock to the

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Photo: Courtesy of Teas’n You

whole fish. Though many of the marine delicacies sit high on the ocean food chain, sustainability is top of mind for the team.

They keep the menu small and flexible to accommodate shifts in availability of product from around the world, and from the waters in our backyard. During a recent gathering at Siren, I ate more seafood in one sitting than I did in the weeks prior, but it never felt monotonous, thanks to uncharted preparations like blue crab custard with Japanese sea urchin and caviar sandwiched in a white chocolate macaron. The deep blue dining room is graced by mermaid visitors and coastal flair throughout. 1515 Rhode Island Ave. NW, DC; www.sirenbyrw.com

On Tap | June 2017 | www.ontaponline.com

Siren caviar trio

Photo: Scott Suchman

Siren by Robert Wiedmaier Open: April 25 Location: Downtown Lowdown: This luxurious shrine to seafood calls diners like the song of its mythical namesake. Robert Wiedmaier and his partner Brian McBride have tapped a nautical-minded chef, John Critchley, to helm the kitchen. The menu casts a wide net, from raw seafood platters and Sasanian caviar to crudo, filets and

Teas’n You Vietnamese coffee macaron

Teas’n You Open: May 8 Location: Tysons Corner Lowdown: Tuyet Nhi Le – one of the team of seven behind the playful Happy Endings Hospitality restaurant group – says she found inspiration for their newest concept, a fusion tea house, from her travels on the West Coast and in Asia, where boba tea reigns supreme. Teas’n You isn’t just about tea, though. In addition to specialty tea and coffee drinks, the succinct menu offers creative takes on macarons and pastries, along with light savory bites like Taiwanese-style popcorn chicken. Many of the menu items lean trendy, with unicorn and breakfast cereal macarons brushed with gold strokes, white rose cream tea and a doughssant (their version of a cronut). This doesn’t mean the kitchen sacrifices quality for whimsy. They use top-notch ingredients like premium loose leaf tea, fresh fruits and flowers, and European butter. I could spend all day in the serene café, which looks like it was designed by the tea goddess who is featured in the shop’s logo. The light wood walls are draped with handmade origami and floral art by the visual designer for Anthropologie. 8032 Leesburg Pike, Tysons Corner, VA; www.teasnyou.com

A BY

BR OU G

YOU L O TO C

Y LL

HT

RESPONSIBILITY MATTERS

PROUDLY DISTRIBUTED BY

AVAILABLE AT YOUR

Photo: Courtesy of Inferno Pizzeria

Truxton cocktail

Photo: Rey Lopez

Truxton Inn Open: May 2 Location: Bloomingdale Lowdown: Though not an inn at all, the Truxton Inn is modeled after a sumptuous hotel bar, with shadowy lighting, antique couches and shelves filled with books and eye-catching trinkets. The intimate neighborhood cocktail bar pays homage to classic cocktails with true-to-form renditions of daiquiris and Manhattans, but it also riffs on each classic by swapping out staple ingredients for unexpected ones. I loved the no sé-groni, which puts mezcal center stage. Brian Nixon of McClellan’s Retreat is curating the cocktail program, which will change every other month. Food is not the focus, but there will be a few small snacks like Republic Kolaches, charcuterie, cheese and seasoned popcorn. 251 Florida Ave. NW, DC; www.truxtoninndc.com

Del Campo at Dusk

Photo: Courtesy of Del Campo

Inferno Pizzeria garganelli with pesto

NOTABLE

Inferno Pizzeria’s Pasta Tasting Dinner

Del Campo at Dusk

Dates: One Tuesday per month Location: Darnestown, Md. Lowdown: Pizza professional Chef Tony Conte has his sights set on another type of dough: pasta dough. Last month, he began hosting a five-course pasta tasting dinner that goes way beyond red sauce.

His innovative noodles have included garlic bread spaghetti, miso uni pasta and truffle noodles. In each creation, purees, powders and pastes are added directly to the doughs to infuse flavors that pack a punch. Sometimes, he even skips the dough altogether, crafting noodles out of squid or fish. This special menu is available on one Tuesday per month, and reservations can be made online.

Pricing for the meal falls between $50 and $60 per person. 12207 Darnestown Rd. Darnestown, MD; www.inferno-pizzeria.com

Dates: June 9, July 14, August 4, September 15 at 6 p.m.

Location: Chinatown Lowdown: Victor Albisu’s flagship restaurant is hosting its signature rooftop party series again this summer. High above downtown DC, guests eat, drink and dance the night away during themed fiestas. The Del Campo at Dusk season kicks off with Mambo & Mojitos on June 9, where the dress code invites Cuban attire and the menu includes croquetas, ropa vieja and more. July 14 is Reggae Night, August 4 is all about tiki and September 15 will be an Oktoberfest celebration.

Tickets are $35 per person and include food and access to the cash bar. 777 I St. NW, DC; www.delcampodc.com

Now Open Bar Bao 3100 Clarendon Blvd. Arlington, VA www.barbao.com

Hen Quarter 1050 E St. DC www.henquarter.com

Saint Yves 1220 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC www.saintyvesdc.com

Bombay Express 1829 M St. NW, DC www.gethiredinva.com

Kofuku Ramen & Sushi 815 7th St. NW, DC @kofukuramen

Tyber Creek Wine Bar & Kitchen 84 T St. NW, DC www.tybercreekdc.com

Choong Man 1125 H St. NE, DC www.choongmanchicken.com

Ladurée Georgetown: 3060 M St. NW, DC; Union Station: 50 Massachusetts Ave. NE, DC www.laduree.com

Tysons Biergarten (reopening) 8346 Leesburg Pike, Tyson Corner, VA www.tysonsbiergarten.com

Class 520 5 Dawson Ave. Rockville, MD www.class520icecream.com The Conche 1605 Village Market Blvd. Leesburg, VA www.the-conche.com The Good Silver 3410 11th St. NW, DC www.goodsilverdc.com Halal Guys Dupont: 1331 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC; H Street: 814 H St. NW, DC www.thehalalguys.com

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On Tap | June 2017 | www.ontaponline.com

MilkBoy ArtHouse 7416 Baltimore Ave. College Park, MD theclarice.umd.edu/milkboy-arthouse Reliable Tavern 3655 Georgia Ave. NW, DC www.reliable-tavern.com

Whaley’s Rosé Garden 301 Water St. SE, DC www.whaleysdc.com

No Longer Asian Spice in Chinatown

Ritz Carlton Rosé Garden 3100 South St. NW, DC www.ritzcarlton.com

Bayou in Foggy Bottom

Saigon Kitchen 2412 Wisconsin Ave. NW, DC www.saigonkitchendc.com

Pie 360 in Mount Vernon Square

Bearnaise in Capitol Hill Mourayo in Dupont Upper Crust Pizzeria on U Street

Stay Classy, dc Will Ferrell Pop-up Hits H Street

Presented by

By On Tap staff Need more cowbell? Head to Mythology in the H Street Corridor this summer for a pop-up celebrating all things Will Ferrell, from drink and food menus inspired by his best lines (Smelly Pirate Hooker and You’re My Boy, Blue are just a few of the cocktails offered) to an Instagramworthy Anchorman newsroom set. We caught up with owner Todd Luongo about his restaurant’s transformation. He’s kind of a big deal.

On Tap: What inspired you to transform Mythology into a Will Ferrell pop-up?

Todd Luongo: There’s just so much pure absurdity, hilarity and escapist fun associated with Will Ferrell characters. I knew DC would love the concept. So, I tracked down the founder of the pop-up, Zach Neil, and pitched the idea of bringing his awesome "Stay Classy" party to DC. OT: How would you describe the pop-up’s decor?

TL: Joyous absurdity. I love all the set pieces and artwork, but Ron Burgundy's jazz flute is definitely one of my favorites. Also, the Anchorman newsroom set is fantastic.

OT: Any special events coming up?

TL: We are currently throwing a mustache ball every Saturday night.

Everyone is encouraged to come with their best mustache, and we provide fake mustaches to those that don't have their own. Prizes are awarded for the best mustache (whether it be real or fake). We will also be hosting an Old School-style keg party.

OT: What's your favorite drink on the menu? Food item?

TL: Great Odin's Raven (rum, lemon, ginger, Odin, raven’s beak) and the Beard of Zeus (white tequila, smoked pineapple juice) are refreshing summer drinks, and also a great bridge between Will Ferrell references and Mythology. And you haven't lived until you've sipped on a Whale's Vagina. When I opened a restaurant, I never thought I'd be serving a dish called Dirty Diaper with Indian Food, but I am and it's amazing. It's curried hummus, and we've been told on more than one occasion by guests that it's among the best hummus they've had.

OT: How long do you plan to keep the pop-up open?

TL: We are playing it by ear, but we hope to at least run it through the summer. [Locals] will let us know how long they want to keep the “Stay Classy” party in town at Mythology.

OT: Is this a one-time pop-up or do you have something else up your sleeve?

TL: Our guests (and staff ) are having too much fun for this to be a one-off. We have some amazing long-term plans for the next one that I know DC will love.

Mythology: 816 H St. NE, DC; 202-847-0098 www.mythology-lore.com

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NoVaBrewfeSt.Com www.ontaponline.com | JUNE 2017 | ON TAP

39

Sugarstyle Millenial

to Keep You Cool This Summer

By Lani Furbank

Siren grand plateau Photo: Scott Suchman

When patio weather hits, our taste buds immediately start to crave cold, briny oysters, sweet, chilled lobster meat and bright, zingy ceviches. The clean and refreshing flavors from raw bar menus are just perfect for outdoor dining, so this month we’re highlighting our favorites – many of which have stellar al fresco seating. You’ll want to chill out at these 10 raw bars all summer long.

Conosci Spanish mackerel

Photo: George Rodrigues

Conosci This pearl hidden inside Alta Strada in City Vista is not your typical raw bar. Michael Schlow’s intimate 31-seat restaurant offers three crudo tasting menus nightly, each consisting of intriguing raw preparations of seafood, vegetables and meats. As such, there’s not a whole lot of actual cooking that takes place in the kitchen, which consists of just a toaster oven, an induction burner and a rice cooker.

Though the dishes change regularly, a few highlights have included uni flan with crab espuma and lobster roe powder and razor clam poke with mint, grapefruit, orange, rice masago and chili paste.

465 K St. NW, DC; www.conoscidc.com

Fiola Mare seafood

Photo: Fiola Mare’s Facebook

mussels, langoustine, lobster and more.

Diners can also order oysters by the half dozen and four types of high-quality caviar.

The restaurant’s beautiful terrace right on the Potomac River will make you feel like you’re dining on the coast of Italy.

3050 K St. Suite 101, NW, DC; www.fiolamaredc.com

Joe’s The Whale Hank’s raw bar

Photo: Courtesy of Hank’s

Fiola Mare

Hank’s Oyster Bar

Of course, Fabio and Maria Trabocchi’s lavish ode to the sea has a top-notch raw bar menu. It features frutti di mare platters with delicacies like tiger prawns, sea urchin, king crab, caviar, scallops,

Take your pick from the three DMV locations of this staple oyster bar. The original Dupont Circle restaurant has six seats at the raw bar, where you can watch the oyster shuckers go through about

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On Tap | June 2017 | www.ontaponline.com

1,500 oysters a day on average. You could also sit on the 40-seat patio and down a few sake oyster shooters. The raw bar at Hank’s on the Hill is on a raised platform, so every seat in the house has a view.

There’s also a small outdoor patio where you’ll want to tackle the seafood plateau with oysters, jumbo shrimp cocktail, ceviche, middle neck clams, Old Bay peel-and-eat shrimp and chilled lobster.

In Old Town Alexandria, be sure to try Hank’s proprietary oyster, the Salty Wolfe.

Dupont Circle: 1624 Q St. NW, DC; Capitol Hill: 633 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, DC; Old Town Alexandria: 1026 King St. Alexandria, VA; www.hanksoysterbar.com

Photo: Anjali Pinto & Christina Slaton

Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab The namesake stone crab is the signature crustacean at this seafood spot. Joe’s founders popularized these unique crabs in the early 1900s when they began serving the claws on the front porch of their house in Miami Beach. Stone crabs

can regenerate their claws, so fishermen harvest one claw at a time and then throw the crab back into the Gulf of Mexico.

The raw bar menu also goes beyond the Florida favorite, with jumbo Alaskan king crab, East Coast oysters, jumbo shrimp cocktail, ceviche and more.

750 15th St. NW, DC; www.joes.net/dc

Partnership (ORP) to recycle shells and create reefs that will support future oysters in the Chesapeake Bay region.

675 15th St. NW, DC; www.ebbitt.com

Raw bar at Siren

Pearl Dive oysters

Photo: Courtesy of Pearl Dive

Pearl Dive Oyster Palace Photo: Scott Suchman

Le Diplomate Every meal at this classic French café should start with one of the loaded seafood plateaus. The towers feature several unique mollusks, shellfish and crustaceans that you don’t typically find on a raw bar menu. The petit and grand plateaus feature varying quantities of oysters from both coasts, little neck clams, top neck clams, razor clams, king crab, snow crab, jumbo lump crab meat, lobster, Blue Bay mussels, shrimp, fluke and welks. It’s all served with mignonette, cocktail sauce and French cocktail sauce. For a true Parisian experience, enjoy your plateau on the sidewalk patio while watching the world go by.

1601 14th St. NW, DC; www.lediplomatedc.com

Oysters are king at Black Restaurant Group’s Pearl Dive. In addition to a selection of East and West Coast varieties, the group has joined forces with Rappahannock Oyster Company to raise a signature oyster, the Old Black Salt.

Grown in the salty waters of Black Narrows in Chincoteague, these oysters have one of the highest salinities of any oyster on the market. Enjoy a few on the half shell, along with a bounty of other sustainably harvested seafood, at the four-seat raw bar inside or on the compact patio.

1612 14th St. NW, DC; www.pearldivedc.com Photo: Courtesy of Rappahannock

Le Diplomate plateau

Rappahannock cured salmon tartine

Rappahannock Oyster Bar

Old Ebbitt seafood platter

Photo: Courtesy of Old Ebbitt

Old Ebbitt Grill This historic tavern is a mainstay for oysters, especially during oyster happy hour. All oysters are 50 percent off daily from 3-6 p.m. and 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. (2 a.m. on Friday and Saturday). Between daily service and special events like the International Wines for Oyster Competition and Oyster Riot, Old Ebbitt goes through an impressive number of oysters. But don’t worry, the shells go to good use after they’re slurped clean. The restaurant group works with the Oyster Recovery

No visit to Union Market is complete without a stop at the raw bar owned by the pioneering Rappahannock Oyster Company. Their sustainable oyster production has helped revitalize the native Chesapeake Bay oyster population, and they’ve since set their sights on doing the same for the Chesapeake scallop. At the oyster bar, you can sample the company’s own oysters, as well as seafood platters and plenty of cooked seafood dishes. After you order, you can take your food and eat at the communal tables outside the market.

1309 5th St. NE, DC; www.rroysters.com

Siren by Robert Wiedmaier This featured spot in our New, Notable, No Longer column happens to have a stellar raw bar. The crown jewel of these

Photo: Scott Suchman

offerings is the Grand Plateau: two tiers of oysters, little neck clams, Skull Island prawns, Maine lobster and sashimi. They also have beautiful caviar service and a handful of raw small plates, like big eye tuna with kalamansi lime, sesame seed, wakame seaweed, macadamia nut and avocado mousse, and fluke tiradito with yellow pepper juice, pickled vegetables and smoked trout roe.

1515 Rhode Island Ave. NW, DC; www.sirenbyrw.com

Whaley’s seafood tower

Photo: Courtesy of Whaley’s

Whaley’s As a partner of the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch, Whaley’s only serves seafood that meets the program’s stringent sustainability standards. They also recycle their oyster shells with ORP. This means you can slurp oysters and crack crab legs knowing that you’re helping ensure a healthy ocean for future generations. For even more eco points, try Whaley’s propriety River Keeper oyster from Rappahannock Oyster Company; the proceeds benefit Anacostia Riverkeeper. There are also epic seafood towers with gems like smoked catfish rillettes, grilled calamari salad, sea urchin, little neck clams, poached mussels, shrimp, lobster and crudo of the day. You’ll want to dine on the spacious patio with views of the waterfront.

301 Water St. Suite 115, SE, DC; www.whaleysdc.com www.ontaponline.com | June 2017 | On Tap

41

Jessica Weinstein Paves the Way for

By Jake Emen

Photo: Rey Lopez

I’m looking through a menu and deciding if I want something with eggplant and garlic, or perhaps ramps and scallions.

Maybe something with yogurt? Or something more savory with saffron and bouillabaisse?

Only I’m not browsing the seasonal food menu at your favorite tapas joint in town.

I’m looking at the latest cocktail concoctions from head bartender Jessica Weinstein at Hank’s Cocktail Bar in Petworth.

“I had this idea to do this ‘food production’ thing,” explains Weinstein of her new menu, set to be unveiled on June 20.

It’s more comprehensive book than small menu though, offering sections such as “food production 101” and “market fresh” to go along with the classic cocktail riffs she calls “not so classics.” As for the funky food ingredients, she thinks about what’s fresh, and she takes full advantage of the knowledge – and the produce – she can find in the kitchen.

“A lot of it is communication with Chef [Jamie Leeds],” says Weinstein. “We start figuring out the technique side from the kitchen.”

Plus, with a culinary background of her own, she also has the wherewithal to grab a handful of this or that and just make something happen based on a sauce, flavor profile or concept.

“I love to be able to go into the walkout [kitchen] and just steal everything,” Weinstein says with a laugh.

More specifically though, she looks into seasonal produce that’s available, and sees what she can get her hands on and what types of flavors could potentially play nicely with others.

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ON TAP | JUNE 2017 | www.ontaponline.com

Photo: Jake Emen

“I read The Flavor Bible a lot,” she says. “It’s my favorite thing to ruminate on.”

The drink that started it all for her new menu was the Club Med, made with saffroninfused Avion tequila, coconut water, lemon, burnt sugar, Amaro Nonino and Pernod Pastis.

“That’s when I realized ‘food production 101’ had to happen, [and] I fell in love with the idea. It also felt like a fun way to interact with the back of the house, too.”

Soon there were sweet peas in the Shelling Peas is Torture, in reference to the tedious task of shelling peas that those in the kitchen know all too well, while eggplant and garlic get put to use alongside El Silencio Mezcal in the Pass Me the Deadly Nightshade. The deviously green Scallion Stallion showcases Ilegal Mezcal handcrafted liquor, with an assortment of fresh greenery, from ramps to green onions to cilantro.

As Weinstein talks about her latest concoctions, inspirations and experiments, there’s a real giddiness and excitement behind it all. You can see the cocktail nerd wheels turning as new ideas and riffs

continue to pop up – and don’t worry, that’s not only a compliment, they’re her words, not mine.

“It’s fun to come here and do some nerd stuff,” she says.

The smaller space and reduced chaos at Hank’s Cocktail Bar in Petworth affords her that opportunity, whereas the busy scene at Hank’s Oyster Bar in Dupont was often more about meeting the demands of a high-volume, high-pace atmosphere.

Here though, as she’s talking through her drinks, she may decide one needs extra depth and so she reaches for some sherry, while another might need a touch of salt to take it to the next level, or an aromatic drop of oil delicately placed onto its surface as a finishing touch. She’s dedicated to nailing those little details, always progressing, and continuing to move her menu forward rather than letting it get stagnant.

Perhaps the showstopper of the new menu though is the Bearnaise, served in a honey bear container. “[It’s] the favorite nerd moment in my career,” she says.

The drink is made with Absolut Elyx vodka, orange juice, Greek yogurt, honey, tarragon and Peychaud’s, and is a deceptively creamy, sweet and refreshing choice for this time of year.

It’s fun and it’s eye-catching, but as with all the new drinks she’s creating, it’s not simply about showmanship, or wackiness purely for the sake of it. The drinks have to stand up on their own accord.

“That’s where I feel like a lot of bar managers mess up,” she says, as they pursue whatever wacky ideas they’ve dreamt up without considering if people will actually enjoy the drinks, which is the point, after all.

Of course, some creative pizzazz and flair never hurt.

“I want people to look at my drinks and know they’re mine. But there’s serious flavors there, too.”

on the scene

FOR MORE PHOTOS FROM THESE AND OTHER EVENTS, VISIT THE ONLINE GALLERY AT WWW.ONTAPONLINE.COM.

Hank’s Cocktail Bar: 819 Upshur St. NW, DC; 202-290-1808; www.hankscocktailbar.com

& Where to Find Them Dram & Grain Alligator meat: The Gator Wrestlin’ & Paddle-Backs cocktail has Chartreuse infused with alligator butter.

2007 18th St. NW, DC www.FB.com/DramandGrain/ Photo: Courtesy of Dram & Grain

Espita Mezcaleria Chapulines (grasshoppers): The Five Suns cocktail has a line of crushed chapulines resting atop the drink.

1250 9th St. NW, DC www.espitadc.com Photo: Jake Emen

Hank’s Cocktail Bar Garlic, eggplant, saffron, peas, ramps: Jessica Weinstein is relishing the opportunity to unleash her cocktail nerd with the entire new cocktail menu at Hank’s, including the Bearnaise, served in a honey bear container.

Photo: Courtesy of simoneink

819 Upshur St. NW, DC www.hankscocktailbar.com

Locals enjoyed the craftiest and most delicious Bloody Marys from the 14th Street Corridor to Georgetown at the Blind Whino SW Arts Club.

PHOTOS: JOHN GERVASI

www.ontaponline.com | JUNE 2017 | ON TAP

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BEHIND THE BAR

By Kayla Marsh

DC bar patrons, the weather has cleared up and the sun is out, therefore you should be too. To get you started, we selected three very different but equally fantastic rooftop options in Petworth, Georgetown and the H Street Corridor, each blending ambiance with unique views of DC. Read on to learn more about these rooftop hotspots.

Photos: Trent Johnson

JASON WILLIAMS

GARY ENCHELMAIER

On Tap: What’s hot on the drink menu right now?

Jason Williams: We’ve got rosé and sangria on tap, and $5 rosé all day.

On Tap: What cocktails are popular to drink on the patio?

Gary Enchelmaier: The Immaculata, the Argo and the Eleanor are the most popular for patio consumption. The Immaculata is strawberry, tequila and prosecco. Tequila has a little more earthiness to it, which is nice for the strawberry. Then prosecco brightens it up, which makes it nice for the patio.

Bar Manager, Homestead

OT: What’s the music like on the deck?

JW: We have DJs out here every other Thursday night.

OT: What kind of music do the DJs usually play?

JW: The music starts out pretty EDM-y, and then goes into some old school drum and bass, and techno.

OT: What’s the beer and wine selection like?

JW: All of our beers are DC, Maryland or Virginia beers; we stay hyperlocal with that. All of our ciders but one are from Virginia. We have four different wines on tap: two whites, a rosé and a pinot noir.

We’re primarily more of a beer and whiskey-focused place.

OT: How many different whiskeys?

JW: I’m going to say there’s probably over 70 different bottles, including stuff I haven’t even put out yet because of shelving space.

OT: How is the cocktail menu crafted?

JW: Our primary [focus] is making really good classic cocktails.

OT: What do you love about bartending in Petworth?

JW: As in any place, it’s the people. This area is growing and a lot of people in the area are as new to it as we are; just hearing people’s stories and how they ended up in Petworth. A lot of them are young – young professionals, young families. It’s like we’re all growing together.

OT: Do you change up the cocktail menu often?

GE: Every season, except over the summer depending on what shrub I can make and what fruits come through the door. Fresh is the theme of the whole restaurant, so we’re trying to carry that over to the bar as much as possible.

OT: How do you come up with the names for the cocktails?

GE: All of our cocktails are named after a ship or vessel of some sort.

The Eleanor was involved in the Boston Tea Party. The Argo is from Jason and the Argonauts. Endurance is one of the ones that went to the North Pole. Immaculata is from Overboard, with Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn. It’s Goldie Hawn’s yacht.

OT: How would you describe the vibe on the rooftop patio?

GE: It’s definitely laid back because it’s communal seating. If there’s a two-top, there could be someone at the other end of the table with you.

OT: What’s your favorite food and beverage pairing?

GE: The Szechuan ribs are my favorite. If I’m pairing them with a cocktail, I’m probably going to go with something a little bit easier like the Endurance; it has just about every flavor you can have in there.

Jason’s Pick

Gary’s Pick

Bulleit Bourbon Blackberries Cardamom syrup Lemon

Tequila Strawberry shrub Prosecco

BLACKER THE BERRY

Homestead: 3911 Georgia Ave. NW, DC; www.homesteaddc.com

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Beverage Director, Sally’s Middle Name

On Tap | JUNE 2017 | www.ontaponline.com

THE IMMACULATA

Sally’s Middle Name: 1320 H St. NE, DC; www.sallysmiddlename.com

MARK NAMDAR General Manager

LAUREN SUTTON

Food & Beverage Director

The Observatory Rooftop Bar at The Graham Georgetown On Tap: What kind of crowd does the Observatory Rooftop Bar draw in the evenings?

Lauren Sutton: We’re very neighborhood-based. It’s an eclectic mix of individuals. During happy hour, there is an influx of young professionals, tourists and hotel guests.

OT: How does the bar incorporate elements of Georgetown?

LS: The wines we have for our guests are from Virginia. We’re constantly experimenting with DC beer and trying to stay current with how relevant beer has become in the past few years.

OT: What makes the Observatory stand out from other bars in the DC area?

LS: Georgetown is definitely a destination. We maintain a classy young professional crowd, which not all rooftop [bars] in the city can say. We do that in part to maintain the [clientele] that have been coming here since we opened, but also for the comfort of our hotel guests.

OT: Are there any new additions to the food menu?

LS: This year, we have the addition of our raw bar. We have seafood towers, oysters, lobster rolls and things of that nature.

OT: What’s the rooftop crowd drinking this summer?

Mark Namdar: The Observatory Rooftop has always been about champagne.

LS: We’ve also been hit really hard with Moscow mules.

OT: Tell us about the new frozen rosé.

MN: The “frosé” is frozen rosé, but there’s a trick to it: a little strawberry syrup is added to it with some lemon juice to balance it out. We’ve received great feedback so far.

Lauren & Mark’s Pick

SCORPION BOWL (for two) Rum Brandy Orange juice Almond syrup Fresh lemon juice

Tysons Corner

JUNE/JULY

BREWERY EVENTS

6/7 6/15 7/5 7/12

BOURBON BARREL STOUT

Stout aged in a Jim Beam Barrel for 6 months

BARREL AGED ABBEY DUBBLE

Woodford Reserve bourbon barrel for 7 months

SOUR BELGIAM GOLDEN ALE

The Belgian Golden ale brewed with the Duval yeast

BOURBON BARREL AGED WINTERBOCK

Brewed in 2016 and aged in a Woodford Reserve Bourbon barrel for 5 months

The Observatory Rooftop Bar at The Graham Georgetown: 1075 Thomas Jefferson St. NW, DC; www.thegrahamgeorgetown.com www.ontaponline.com | june 2017 | On Tap

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All What’s On Tap listings are provided by the venues hosting them.

By Trent Johnson

Greetings, beer nerds! As you likely know, there are a number of fantastic establishments in the DMV where you can grab a pint, and their menus are always evolving and adapting to your tastes. If you’d rather avoid the guessing game, check out some of what’s coming up on tap at a few of the area establishments below.

FRIDAY, JUNE 2, SUNDAY, JUNE 4 and MONDAY, JUNE 5 Craft for Causes Hits DC Craft for Causes, a nonprofit bringing the booming craft brew industry together with live music to support charitable causes, brings its first fullscale national initiative to the DMV. The tour will hit Lost Rhino, Union Craft and Caboose Brewing, with each debuting special releases for the event. Each city’s visit will precede the Tedeschi Trucks Band’s Wheels of Soul Tour, making a stop at Wolf Trap on July 5. “I wanted to create something where everybody wins, and we will leave behind, literally, a trail of musical instruments for children in these cities,” said John Nichols, the Craft for Causes founder.

Caboose Brewing Company 520 Mill St. NE. Vienna, VA www.caboosebrewing.com Lost Rhino Brewing Company 21730 Red Rum Dr. Suite 142, Ashburn, VA; www.lostrhino.com Union Craft Brewing 1700 Union Ave. Baltimore, MD www.unioncraftbrewing.com

SATURDAY, JUNE 3 - SUNDAY, JUNE 4 SAVOR After Party Once SAVOR winds down, The Partisan will keep the party going with friends from Allagash Brewing Company, FATE Brewing Company and Flying Dog Brewery. Join as they pour a dozen exceptional drafts from this fantastic trio of breweries. Highlights from the list include Allagash Little Brett,

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FATE Tequila Barrel-Aged Gose and Flying Dog Barrel-Aged Gonzo. 10 p.m. - 1 a.m. Free to attend. The Partisan: 709 D St. NW, DC; www.thepartisandc.com

MONDAY, JUNE 5 Joggers and Lagers with Pacers Running Do you measure fun by the pint or by the mile? Try it both ways every Monday night at Joggers and Lagers with Pacers Running.

Take part in the one, three or five-mile fun run that takes off and returns to the tasting room, which opens at 4 p.m. Expect a fun crowd, support from Pacers Running staff, and periodic visits from their vendors to let you test out their latest offerings.

Taking it at your own pace, you will enjoy running our pleasant route through a park and along a trail that follows the water of Holmes Run. Old Blue BBQ will be out at 5:30 p.m. for dinner with your pint when your run is completed. 7-9 p.m. Port City World Headquarters: 3950 Wheeler Ave. Alexandria, VA; www.portcitybrewing.com

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 7 Sierra Nevada Beer Camp Join as ChurchKey hosts the official DC debut of Sierra Nevada Beer Camp Across the World. On this night, they’ll feature 15 very special drafts from the Chico, Calif. brewery, including all 12 limited-release Beer Camp Across the World collaboration brews. Beer Camp is an annual collaboration project pairing Sierra Nevada with some of the absolute best in the beer industry. This year’s Beer Camp showcases six exceptional international brands alongside six exciting American craft brewers. 4-11 p.m. Free to attend. ChurchKey: 1337 14th St. NW, DC; www.churchkeydc.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 8 90s Karaoke Jam: Grunge vs. Hip-Hop Dogfish Head Alehouse in Falls Church is hosting a karaoke jam, and everyone is invited. Join them for a fun-filled night full of throwbacks and 90s fun. Performance and costume contests will be in full effect as well as a build-your-own taco buffet. 8-11 p.m.

Dogfish Head Alehouse: 6220 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA; www.dogfishalehouse.com

FRIDAY, JUNE 9 Lagunitas Beer Dinner Head to Wildfire for a summer beer dinner where Executive Chefs Moreno Espinoza and Edwin Amaya will prepare a four-course custom menu paired with craft brews from Lagunitas Brewing Company. Emma Devine, Lagunitas Brewing Company’s marketing manager, will join as guest speaker for the evening. 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $55. Wildfire: 2001 International Dr. McLean, VA; www.wildfirerestaurant.com

SATURDAY, JUNE 10 Flying Dog University Beast Feast Join as Flying Dog once again celebrates its partnership with the North Carolina Hog Grower’s Association and their beautiful Berkshire hogs with a no-holds-barred Beast Feast at B Side. Don’t miss this sumptuous four-course menu, crafted by Chef Nathan Anda and served alongside five exceptional beers from Flying Dog Brewery. As an added bonus, members of the brewery’s beer educational program, Flying Dog University, will be on hand to discuss the parallels of brewing, local farming and whole animal butchery. 6:30-9:30 p.m. Tickets are $60.

B Side: 8298 Glass Alley, Fairfax, VA; www.bsidecuts.com

MONDAY, JUNE 12 “Near & Fear” Beer Dinner Series 2017 Rustico Alexandria will host a five-course dinner specifically paired to the beers from Triple Crossing. Don’t miss the opportunity to try some deliciously rare treats like Double Dry-Hopped Clever Girl, Waxing Poetic and Liberty or Death. As an added bonus, Triple Crossing cofounders Jeremy Wirtes, Adam Worcester and Scott Jones will be in the house, sharing stories about their excellent brewery and outstanding beers.

7 p.m. Tickets are $60. Rustico Alexandria: 827 Slaters Ln. Alexandria, VA; www.rusticorestaurant.com

TUESDAY, JUNE 13 The Official Two Roads Brewing MoCo Launch Join as Owen’s Ordinary hosts the official Montgomery County launch of Two Roads Brewing Company. On this night, they’ll tap the very first kegs of Two Roads ever poured in Montgomery County – a total of 12 beers in all. Don’t miss this opportunity to be the first in the area to try these award-winning brews. Highlights from the evening’s exceptional list include Two Juicy, a limited release New England-style double IPA, Conntucky Lightnin’ 2016, sour-mashed and aged in bourbon barrels, and Bog Wild, a mixed-fermentation sour ale brewed with local cranberries. 5-11 p.m. Free to attend.

Owen’s Ordinary: 11820 Trade St. North Bethesda, MD; www.owensordinarymd.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 15 Four-Course Beer Dinner featuring Hardywood Park Craft Brewery A Hardywood Park Craft Brewery expert

and Pinstripes’ chef will lead guests through an interactive dinner and discussion demonstrating how each pairing enhances the dining experience. Each course is paired with a Hardywood Park craft beer. 7-9 p.m.

Tickets are $50. Pinstripes: 1064 Wisconsin Ave. NW, DC; www.pinstripes.com Oskar Blues Fugli Release Party B Side will showcase six drafts from Oskar Blues, including a number of brewery-only releases. Inspired by a collaboration with Japan’s Yo-Ho Brewing Company, Oskar Blues’ Fugli is brewed with a trio of exotic fruits: yuzu, ugli fruit and rangpur. These unique citrus fruits blend perfectly with a heavy dose of Mosaic hops to create a refreshingly drinkable IPA for the summer months. 5-11 p.m. Free to attend. B Side: 8298 Glass Alley, Fairfax, VA; www.bsidecuts.com

FRIDAY, JUNE 16 World of Beer Block Party Fun Run Come join in on a Friday night fun run from Charm City Run at Locust Point. Route sheets will be provided for a three-mile run led by a Charm City Run coach. Upon the return to McHenry Row, join the festivities at the World of Beer block party where runners of legal drinking age will enjoy one complimentary beer. Stick around for live music and fun. Registration for this event is free. 6 p.m. Charm City Run: 1713 Whetstone Way, Baltimore, MD; www.charmcityrun.com/baltimore/

Father’s Day. Green Plate Catering will provide the food perfectly paired with 7 Locks Brewing beer. The event includes a brewery tour from one of the owners, with passed appetizers and the first beer, followed by a seated three-course meal accompanied by a beer with each course.

The brewery will open to a social hour where you can further enjoy the company of fellow guests and some additional tasty brews. 6-10 p.m. $25-$55. 7 Locks Brewing: 12227 Wilkins Ave. Rockville, MD; www.7locksbrewing.com

SATURDAY, JUNE 24 Dead Rise Crab Feast For the first time ever, head to Flying Dog Brewery to eat crabs, drink Dead Rise out of cans and taste the brewery-only Double Dead Rise. Don’t miss all-you-can-eat crabs, beers, lawn games and live music. 4-7 p.m.

Tickets are $65-$105. Flying Dog Brewery: 4607 Wedgewood Blvd. Frederick, MD; www.flyingdogbrewery.com

SUNDAY, JUNE 25 DC BRAU BEERASANA Enjoy yoga every last Sunday of each month at DC Brau. Join them for an all-levels yoga flow followed by a pint of beer. All are welcome; no yoga experience required.

Limited to 20 guests. BYO yoga mat, and they’ll provide the beer. 12 p.m. Tickets are $15. DC Brau: 3178 Bladensburg Rd. NE #B, DC; www.dcbrau.com

SUNDAY, JUNE 18 Father’s Day Beer Dinner 7 Locks Brewing is excited to host a special four-course dinner and beer pairing for

Congrats to O’Connor Brewing Co. O’Connor Brewing Co. fared exceptionally well last month in the Tastings World Beer Competition. The brewery’s Great Dismal Black IPA was awarded a gold medal in the American-style black ale category, the El Guapo Agave IPA earned the silver medal in the flavored IPA category and the Heavy Footer Double IPA also picked up a silver medal. Lastly, the Norfolk Canyon Pale Ale was awarded a bronze medal in the American-style pale ale category.

“All four awards are such an honor, and we are especially proud that three of our oldest beer brands have been acknowledged by the Tastings Competition as exceptional beers,” says Kevin O’Connor, owner and president of O’Connor Brewing Co.

Photo: Courtesy of O’Connor Brewing Co.

Including these recent victories, O’Connor Brewing Co. has won a total of 14 medals from the Tastings World Beer Championships. This is the second championship medal for the Heavy Footer Double IPA.

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on the scene

For more photos from these And other events, visit the online gallery at www.ontaponline.com.

Photo: Courtesy of Wunder Garten DC

Wunder

Garten’s

Christoper Lynch, Owner

On Tap: What do you think is the main appeal of beer gardens?

Christopher Lynch: I think people like to drink outside. We have a casual, laidback atmosphere. People like to be outside, and there aren’t too many places where can you do that in DC. The selection of beers, like craft-imported beers, makes them more desirable as well.

OT: How do you select beers? Do you keep outside weather in mind?

CL: We started off wanting to bring an authentic German experience to DC, and the primary focus initially was on German beers. Our selection was heavily German, but over time, we started to add local craft brew selections, so we serve Atlas, Port City, and some other Maryland and Virginia brands. We have core German selections, from hefeweizens to shandys. We have year-round selections, and we switch it up. When it comes to the local, we just work with our distributors and keep our eyes open on what’s coming through the venues. We’ll try it out and if it’s something that’s viable, we’ll keep it.

OT: How often do you add new brews? Are you always looking?

CL: We read a lot of trade publications and we constantly talk to people in the local industry, including beer reps. We try to keep it both local and German. Sometimes we’ll pick up Racer 5 IPA from California, and we have it just because it’s a great beer. We love to talk to the customers and see what they like, and just see what works.

We have 12 tap lines, so we like to play around and give people the most interesting tastes. People are really happy that we switch things around, and they appreciate the fact that we pay a lot of attention.

OT: Are there certain beers you guys are excited about?

CL: I think what we’ve been successful [with] Weihenstephaner and Vitus, and we’re about to add their dark hefeweizen. Hefeweizen in general is very popular with our customers. Franziskaner Hefe-Weisse is also super popular.

OT: Wunder Garten hosts a ton of events, such as your recent flip cup tournament. Do you have any coming up in June?

CL: We have a DJ who performs every Thursday, and we usually have live music on Fridays and Saturdays. We will also have a large presence during Pride Week. We’ll have a float, and we have a decorating party in early June. And we’ll also have an after party at the beer garden.

Wunder Garten DC: 1101 First St. NE, DC www.wundergartendc.com

Locals enjoyed the biggest release party of the year at the 2017 LoCo Brewfest, featuring new beer from 18 Loudoun breweries.

Photos: Ryan Hill

www.ontaponline.com | June 2017 | On Tap

49

BIERDO

By Nick Hardt

G N I GEEK OUT

OIC AT HER RKS ALEWO

Photos: Courtesy of Heroic Aleworks

he intellectually diminished yet larger-than-life football jock “Ogre” once screamed for their dorky demise in 1984’s Revenge of the Nerds, but as we all know, in the movie and in real life, nerds persevere thanks to a healthy dose of intelligence and creativity. Fortunately for us, some local beer nerds started a killer brewery earlier this year in Woodbridge, Va. Pardon the pun, but I am definitely “drawn” to the uber cool comic book, gaming and all-around geek epicenter that is Heroic Aleworks.

Owners Tim and Kate Hoke knew they had to do something unique to position their brewery to compete in the craft beer market in Northern Virginia. Fortunately, they had to look no further than their obsession with comic books, cult movies, and all things cosplay and weird. I visited Heroic and spoke to bartender Hibah Mailk to get the skinny on their new brewery adorned with enough comic and movie gear to be a small museum of sorts.

Every beer they create is branded and named with its own illustrated superhero or villain; the villains are “seasonal releases that will live or die” depending on the popularity of the beer.

“All of the characters are part of the brewery’s Superhuman Syndicate,” Mailk says. “There are 14 cards/characters you can currently

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ON TAP | JUNE 2017 | www.ontaponline.com

collect, and growing. We’re even making comic books for all of them, but only the Solasta [kölsch-style] comic is currently online.”

Has it made them more popular? Definitely. My personal experience with their superhero/beer-themed playing cards during my tasting was reminiscent of when I was 10 years old and collecting Garbage Pail Kids, except Heroic offers great beer made by Tim and head brewer Leon Harris.

Beechwood aged to perfection meets grilled to perfection.

© 2017 Anheuser-Busch, Budweiser® Beer, St. Louis, MO

CALLING ALL CALLING ALL BEER BEER LOVERS! LOVERS!

“People love the cards and collect them like baseball cards when you were a kid,” Mailk says. “Kate and Tim are big comic book fans and homebrewers, and they really just combined their two loves. It just worked.”

Heroic’s team knows that timing is everything, and plans on participating in two upcoming comic cons in the DC area.

“The huge cosplay events NOVACON [July 28-30 in Tysons Corner] and Awesome Con [June 16-18 at the Washington Convention Center] are coming up this summer, and we’re working on a having a presence there or being involved with them,” he says.

Heck yes! Mailk says most regulars like the Death Blossom Red Ale, but I’m a fan of the darker stuff at Heroic. Give a hero’s welcome to these tasty brews when you visit.

Visit us On Facebook or at TheGreeneTurtle.com

VISIT US Alexandria, ON FACEBOOK OR AT VA, Wegmans’ Chantilly, VA, Next to the Dulles Shopping Ctr, 7879 Heneska Loop Expo, 4301 chantilly shopping Ctr THEGREENETURTLE.COM 703-971-0200 571-375-7796

FairFAx, VA, Old Town Plaza, 3950 University Drive, Suite 209 703-934-5550

FAIRFAX, VA, OLD TOWN PLAZA, 3950 UNIVERSITY DRIVE, SUITE 209 703-934-5550

ALEXANDRIA, VA, WEGMANS’ SHOPPING CENTER, 7879 HENESKA LOOP 703-971-0200

CHANTILLY, VA, NEXT TO THE DULLES EXPO, 4301 CHANTILLY SHOPPING CTR, 571-375-7796

EVENTS AND CATERING

The Dark Enemy Russian Imperial Stout, 8.5 percent: This strong stout has an excellent essence of dark fruit, but not too overpowering.

It’s nice and boozy, so find a designated driver after a date with this big guy. Rating: Every girl’s crazy about a tall, dark Russian.

Max Nix Porter, 5.5 percent: I’m not just a fan because I’m named Nick and this superhero card is the most badass, in my opinion. This dark-as-night porter is super drinkable with light chocolate notes. This is what I drink when I go here.

Rating: A porter you can drink with your favorite Nick!

Doctor Enigma American IPA, 6.8 percent: A bitter bomb of an IPA at first taste, this mellows as it breathes so the balanced citra hops take over as you drink it. Rating: Do yourself a favor and let this one sit until the hop doctor is in!

Let us bring our neighborhood restaurant to you!!

Our food truck is different as we’ll customize our menu to you!

For menus and more information, visit www.tortoiseandhare.events, email info@tortoiseandhare.events or call us on (703) 979-1872.

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Heroic Aleworks: 14910 Persistence Dr. Woodbridge, VA; 571-398-6113; www.heroicaleworks.com

summer where DC meets this

Join us this June for Summer Sounds and Waterfront Workouts at Gangplank Marina Park, 600 Water Street SW—and celebrate The Wharf’s grand opening year.

Summer Sounds

Waterfront Workouts

EVE RY THURSDAY, 6 : 30 – 8 : 30PM

EVE RY SATURDAY, 8 : 00 –11: 00AM

Enjoy some of the area’s best music live and under the stars every Thursday night.

Greet the morning beside the water with our energizing workout program every Saturday.

Thursday, June 1: Lloyd Dobler Effect

June 3, 10, 17, 24:

Thursday, June 8: The Reflex

8:00am: Dragon Boat Training with DC Dragon Boat Club

Thursday, June 15: Pebble to Pearl

9:00am: Yala Fitness with Laurent Amzallag

Thursday, June 22: Practically Einstein

10:00am: Outdoor Yoga with M Street Yoga

Thursday, June 29: Wil Gravatt Band

Summer Sounds is produced by On Tap Magazine. All summer activities and waterfront workouts are FREE and managed by Hoffman-Madison Waterfront, developers of The Wharf—a new world-class waterfront neighborhood now under construction. Phase I of The Wharf will open in October 2017. When complete, The Wharf will feature approximately three million square feet of new residential, office, hotel, retail, cultural, and public uses including waterfront parks, promenades, piers, and docks. More information is online at www.wharfdc.com. General information is available at 202.688.3590. The Wharf is within four blocks of the L’Enfant Plaza and Waterfront Metrorail stops.

F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N , F O L L O W U S ON SOCIAL MEDIA AND VISIT WHARFDC .COM.

AIRØSPACE AN EARTHBOUND RAPPER

INSPIRED BY THE STARS

By Trent Johnson Photos: Trent Johnson

The National Air and Space Museum feels like home to 25-year-old Anthony Alexander Mathison II. Today, he’s donning a black shirt and a backpack, and if you didn’t know better, you’d see a tourist; another passerby accompanying his travel companion, both peering down at various blocks of text to carefully read the information preserved by the Smithsonian. But the exhibits and galleries depicting space and flight are an area he knows more intimately than any earthbound apartment or house.

Online, Mathison is better known as Airøspace, a DC rapper who unapologetically uses clips of anime to promote his music.

When his aggressive lines are compared to those of rapper Tyler, the Creator, he pays respect to the Odd Future hip-hop collective before correcting you on the actual inspiration for the lyrical outbursts: metal. “[Metal and hip-hop] are very closely related,” Mathison says. “There’s a division because you know, they’re screaming and you sometimes can’t understand what they’re saying, but it’s the loudness. In the black community, you’re only supposed to listen to gospel, jazz or like, Prince. You’re not encouraged to go find metal music.”

You can hear this on the two songs released in promotion of his upcoming July record Nocturne, the opposite side of his November mixtape Analog.

listening to albums you can absorb all the way through. Analog is more visceral and [taps into] raw expression, and the other is telling it how it is. Like, when you get in a fight with somebody, you’re in fight or flight mode; you’re in it. Nocturne is like the calm after the fight.”

Mathison has fought throughout his life, both figuratively and literally, bouncing house to house in various locations from Southeast DC to different parts of Maryland. He was largely raised by his stepmother after his biological parents gave up that responsibility.

To fill the void, the young child attended church, but the institution carried its own issues.

“I was a pretty bad kid; I got suspended a lot. Sh-t was just rough. I got in a lot of fights, had a lot of angry outbursts. I grew up in a lot of different ‘hoods. I had a ton of identity issues, just trying to understand myself as a person. As a kid, you soak up knowledge and wisdom from the people around you. My stepmother was my mom, but she also wasn’t. She did her best.”

Despite his trouble, Mathison found solace in the drums at the church he and his stepmom frequented. From there, his love of music blossomed, but he wasn’t able to play with the percussion instruments as much as

“CLARITY. I WANT PEOPLE TO HEAR CLARITY. I FEEL LIKE THERE ARE A TON OF RAPPERS THAT DON’T TALK ABOUT THEIR LIVES. THE LEAST I CAN DO IS BE HONEST.”

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“I’ve been working on it for about five months,” Mathison says. “I like writing and

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On Tap | June 2017 | www.ontaponline.com

he wanted, so he eventually gave up. That was until he heard Jay Z’s Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life, and anything by Eminem.

“I liked the creative aspect,” Mathison says. “As far as what got me in this musical mindset; it came after Eminem. I remember playing Pokémon Blue and “My Name Is” came on MTV, and I really started loving hip-hop from there. I’m like, ‘What the f---, how did he do that?’”

Despite his realization, Mathison says he didn’t take hip-hop seriously until 2016. He performed, made music and constantly wrote rhymes, but fear held him back. Instead of gaining steam with this passion, he reverted back to the scared child without direction. His lack of knowledge discouraged him from giving music his all, but that all changed with Analog and next month’s Nocturne.

“Clarity. I want people to hear clarity. I feel like there are a ton of rappers that don’t talk about their lives. The least I can do is be honest.

I want people to find themselves in it. I want people to discover who they are. Life’s a growing process, and you don’t always have to be who others want you to be.”

When he was younger, Mathison always sought role models and belonging – the high schooler banging metal out of his headphones, the wide-eyed child doodling characters who originated in some Japanese scrapbook. Now, he’s a man peering up at the stars, whether they’re pictures hanging from a wall in a famous DC museum, or vibrant twinkles piercing the darkest night.

“It’s funny because people get caught up in their daily lives. But, we’re literally floating on a ball of water. I want to know what’s beyond that. If we expanded our views, we’d stop being so egotistical.”

For more information on Airøspace and to see where he’s performing, go to www.airospace.bandcamp.com.

Reaffirms My

Lasting Love

Affair with

and and

Stevie Stevie Jackson Jackson

Belle

Sebastian

Photo: Courtesy of Matador Records

By Courtney Sexton he perfect pop song.

The languid lullaby. The cheeky ballad. Alone-in-yourbedroom disco spinner. From the “Blues are still Blue” to “Dear Catastrophe Waitress” and “Seymour Stein” to “Nobody’s Empire,” you’d be hard-pressed to find an occasion or an emotion that a Belle and Sebastian song doesn’t express.

The first time I saw the Glaswegian natives live was from the back of the crowd at what must have been a sold-out show at the Electric Factory in Philadelphia in 2006. That was three years after my high school boyfriend had given me a gift even more lasting than our first crushing love – two burnt CDs of B&S albums If You’re Feeling Sinister and Tigermilk.

By the time I was cruising the back roads of South Jersey with “Stars of Track and Field” soaring through the speakers, Belle and Sebastian was already six years and six albums into a career as one of the greatest indie pop bands of my generation, and I fell harder for them than I had for the shaggyhaired intellectual who introduced us.

Fourteen years (and approximately 143 mixes including at least one B&S song) later, the romance hasn’t faded. Not one bit. My affair with Belle and Sebastian is constant, comfortable and always satisfying. They continue to redefine electronic, surprise with the versatile use of female vocals and explore sexuality, religion – all of the big questions.

And as I found out after talking to guitarist/ singer Stevie Jackson in advance of the

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band’s July 30 show at Merriweather Post Pavilion, they are just people, like all of us, navigating life and death and friendships and crises – living their own versions of reality in the place they call home.

On Tap: Can you tell me about the upcoming tour and your show at Merriweather? It’s an interesting lineup with Spoon and Andrew Bird, and locals Ex Hex. What can we expect to hear this time around?

Stevie Jackson: That’s a big bill, isn’t it?

That’s a lot of bands! The show kind of grows as it goes along with every subsequent record. You’ve got more choice, but it’s always quite integrated – old songs integrated with the new. It will be a mixture of the last 20 years. Every time you go out, there are things from the past that rise up; some you haven’t played for awhile, then something fresh. We were rehearsing a couple of days ago a song we hadn’t played for years. At first I was holding my guitar and I was like, “I have no idea,” but then it comes flooding back – muscle memory – and it’s like time travel to my 2004 self, and my fingers know where to go.

OT: How do you guys stay fresh, excited and still making music that is meaningful after 20 years?

SJ: You don’t slow [down], basically. It’s actually 21 years we’ll be making records, and I think there was a period about 10 years in when we didn’t do anything for a couple of years. We probably needed that at the

time. We’ve never split up. But to be quite frank with you, Courtney, we have to make a living these days. I don’t have any children, but a lot of the other guys do. The impetus is, as working people, they have to provide for their families. I suppose when you’re younger, the whole point of being in a band is to avoid work. You have a romantic notion [of what being a musician is]. Then about 10 years in I thought, “Oh man, it’s a job.” But then it occurred to me: “It’s the best job in the world.”

OT: You have stayed in Scotland throughout your career. How much of a part does your home play in your music?

SJ: The music is infused with [Glasgow]; the characters in the songs and just being here. I think the music’s still got that. For years, we’ve left Glasgow to record. We go somewhere and get it done; no distractions.

And sometimes that can infuse – where you are when you record – give a slight flavor.

But even still, the music is very Glaswegian as far as I’m concerned.

OT: There is a distinct difference between your and frontman Stuart Murdoch’s songwriting styles. Who are some of your own musical influences and icons?

SJ: They all died last year. David [Bowie] was very hard. I didn’t know him; that’s the beauty of it. He was like the cool big brother you never had. He was really a visionary.

And Prince as well, because I didn’t see that coming. It was just a shock. It seemed really

unfair because he was so young and worked so hard.

OT: What did your parents listen to? What were the albums that played in your house, that shaped your own tastes?

SJ: Simon & Garfunkel’s Sounds of Silence LP. There was a Motown compilation, which I wore out. The Mamas & the Papas. Barbara Streisand’s Greatest Hits Vol. 2. I still listen to that. The Four Seasons [here’s where I swoon when Stevie sings “December, 1963 (Oh, What a Night)”]. A couple of Beatles [albums]. A Good Vibrations 45 by The Beach Boys; I played that one a lot. Frank Sinatra – my dad liked that one. A live album of [Wings’] Wings over America. A big one was my mom’s favorite, Gordon Lightfoot’s “If You Could Read My Mind.” I still play that lot. After I left home, the ones I didn’t steal I bought myself.

Thank you, I enjoyed that question.

OT: Who are you outside of the band? What do you do when no one’s around?

SJ: Another excellent question. I just feel like I am, you know? People have asked me what it’s like to be famous, and I don’t consider myself remotely famous. I’m in my 40s and I’m just that guy who’s in bands.

I’m not saying it totally defines who I am, but it does in a way. It’s my job and my hobby rolled into one. When we started the group, Stuart was kind of specific that we’d do this band thing but the stuff we produced would be a representation of our everyday lives. We’re just people living here with flats and bills to pay and mortgages like anyone else. I’m not down in the clubs hanging. I’m a homebody; I like to stay home.

I suppose when you’re younger, the whole point of being in a band is to avoid work.; you have a romantic notion [of what being a musician is]. Then about 10 years in I thought, “Oh man, it’s a job.“ But then it occurred to me:: “It’s the best job in the world.“ OT: Speaking of being a homebody, the world is pretty crazy in a lot of ways right now. What do you do when things are just sh-t? For example, I sometimes listen to “Seymour Stein” on BBC Sessions.

SJ: The BBC one is the best one, yeah. Well, thankfully my life doesn’t go that badly. There are ups and downs. I like to go to sleep. I either sleep or drink my way out of it. Music always takes me to a place anyway. Especially when I was younger – there’d always be a song.

[Bob Dylan’s] Blood on the Tracks when you had a breakup, you know?

OT: One last question before I let you go. Are you a cat or a dog person?

SJ: Dog. The cats generally tend to be girls. I’ve known cat-like girls all my life. They cover the cats. I’d rather the company of a dog when it comes to animals.

Belle and Sebastian play Merriweather Post Pavilion on July 30 with Andrew Bird, Spoon and Ex Hex. Show starts at 6 p.m. Tickets are $45-$55. Learn more about the band at www.belleandsebastian.com.

Merriweather Post Pavilion: 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy. Columbia, MD; 410-715-5550; www.merriweathermusic.com

www.ontaponline.com | June 2017 | On Tap

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By Michael Coleman and Trent Johnson

SUNDAY, JUNE 4

TUESDAY, JUNE 6

John Moreland As one of country music superstar Miranda Lambert’s self-professed favorite songwriters, John Moreland has received the kind of publicity that other previously obscure tunesmiths would kill for. But there’s no question that the burly Tulsa native deserves the attention. Moreland’s gritty tunes fall squarely in the Americana camp – a little country, plenty of rock, some soul and lots of well-penned lyrics. With the April release of his highly anticipated third solo album, High on Tulsa Heat, Moreland is riding a career high.

His June show at the Rock & Roll Hotel gives DC area residents a chance to hear the gorgeously plaintive songs that have earned Moreland devoted listeners across the country. Doors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m.

Tickets are $15-$18. Rock & Roll Hotel: 1353 H St. NE, DC; www.rockandrollhoteldc.com

Air The French electronic duo comprised of Nicolas Godin and Jean-Benoît Dunckel is known for its sensual, atmospheric sound, inspired by Burt Bacharach and Brian Wilson as well as disco, new wave and obscure Italian film soundtracks.

A forerunner of the late 90s electronica boom, Air became one of the most influential electronic acts of the 2000s and beyond. Air is celebrated for its atmospheric, melodic soundscapes that intersperse experimental textures with rock and pop themes. The duo returned in 2016 with a careerspanning retrospective titled Twentyears. On the heels of that release, expect a nostalgic set that revisits some of the group’s greatest hits. Show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $48-$88. The Music Center at Strathmore: 5301 Tuckerman Ln. North Bethesda, MD; www.strathmore.org

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ON TAP | JUNE 2017 | www.ontaponline.com

Helium Hometown rock ‘n’ roll hero Mary Timony – the frontwoman for Ex Hex – has joined up with members of the band Hospitality to play Helium songs, in honor of the Matador record label’s forthcoming reissue series of Helium albums.

One of the most criticallyacclaimed (if not commercially successful) alt-rock bands of the 90s, Helium is seeing the first printing of their music on vinyl in more than a decade. Timony’s fearless approach to guitar playing forged a new path for the much-discussed “woman in rock” trope, lending credence to the idea that woman could do more than just play guitar – they could innovate. Doors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $16-$18. Rock & Roll Hotel: 1353 H St. NE, DC; www.rockandrollhoteldc.com

The Pines Somehow this three-piece band drenched in folky sensibilities still find a way to merge spacey indie sounds with those oldtimey Southern roots. Songs venture from ominous ease to twangy guitar licks, with a soft whisper of vocals tying the different mechanisms together. The group has a Bob Dylan sound about it also, which we all know is a strong base of inspiration to draw from. Doors open at 6 p.m., show starts at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are $15. Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. E. Vienna, VA; www.jamminjava.com

Royal Blood With the dominance of hip-hop and electronica-influenced pop music, the American hard rock landscape has become a bit hollowed out over the past

THURSDAY, JUNE 8, 15, 22, 29 Rosslyn Rocks! Concert Series Bring your friends and head to Central Place Plaza each Thursday evening in June to listen to live music. Each week, check out a different local band including Lloyd Dobler Effect, 19th Street Band, Jeff from Accounting and Monster Band. Enjoy the concert while sipping on a glass of wine or having a beer in downtown Rosslyn’s newest outdoor space. Proceeds from wine and beer purchases will go to A-SPAN, a charity organization striving to end homelessness in Arlington. 6-8 p.m. Free to attend. Central Place Plaza: 1800 N. Lynn St. Arlington, VA; www.rosslynva.org two decades. But British duo Royal Blood (vocalist and bass guitarist Mike Kerr and drummer Ben Thatcher) are doing their part to inject new vitality into the genre. We haven’t heard a duo make this much glorious noise since The White Stripes and The Black Keys. But don’t just take it from us. Here’s none other than legendary Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page’s assessment after seeing them in London two years ago: “They're such fine musicians....it’s so refreshing to hear because they play with the spirit of the things that have preceded them, but you can hear they're going to take rock into a new realm – if they're not already doing that. It’s music of tremendous quality.” Doors open at 7 p.m.

Tickets are $25. 9:30 Club: 815 V St. NW, DC; www.930.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 8

Radio Birds Nashville-based Radio Birds describe their sound as “plain old rock ‘n’ roll music with a distinctly hairy touch.” It’s an apt description for a band that infuses its meat and potatoes rock with a heaping helping of greasy slide guitar, wah wah pedal and an overall sense of letting it all hang out musically.

Radio Birds are particularly appealing because their songs don’t follow any one blueprint and feel as if they are made to be played live. All members of the band sing and play, leading into consistently interesting sonic territory. Doors open at

7 p.m., show starts at 8:30 p.m.

Tickets are $10-$12. Gypsy Sally’s: 3401 K St. NW, DC; www.gypsysallys.com

FRIDAY, JUNE 9

Cody Johnson Hailing from the ever-fertile Texas country music scene, Cody Johnson is a neotraditionalist who manages to sound modern without completely sacrificing the basic tenets and constructs of the country genre. The Huntsville, Texas native routinely sells out big clubs in Houston and has a devoted following in other parts of the Lone Star state as well. Johnson is young but something of a throwback – no fancy $200 jeans and bleached spiky haircuts for this guy, unlike so many male “country” stars today. Just give Johnson his Wranglers, a starched shirt, a cowboy hat, a guitar and a mic, and he’ll gladly show you the real deal. Doors open at 7:30 p.m., show starts at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $20.

Fillmore Silver Spring: 8656 Colesville Rd. Silver Spring, MD; www.fillmoresilverspring.com

SATURDAY, JUNE 10

personal touch that his 2016 release, Michael, emanated throughout. So, if you’re into hip-hop and are interested in seeing what homegrown, introspective talent looks like, make sure to see Mike of Doom. Playing at Strange Adventures III. Performances start at 12 p.m. Weekend tickets are $20. St. Stephen & the Incarnation Episcopal Church: 1525 Newton St. NW, DC; www.twinmoonarts.com

The Record Company The suits at the actual record company have been working overtime to build this L.A.-based band’s buzz, and it’s paid off. The tight-knit throwback trio is all over modern alt-rock radio. The band’s Concord Records debut, Give It Back to You, from 2016 was nominated for a Grammy Award in the category of Best Contemporary Blues Album.

“Off the Ground,” the album’s first single, proved a sensation, spending two consecutive weeks at number one, topping new songs from superstars such as The Lumineers, Red Hot Chili Peppers and The Avett Brothers.

Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20. 9:30 Club: 815 V St. NW, DC; www.930.com

TUESDAY, JUNE 13 THURSDAY, JUNE 8, 15, 22, 29 District Wharf Concert Series Bring your friends and head to District Wharf each Thursday evening this summer to listen to live music at Gangplank Park. Each week, check out a different local band including The Reflex, Practically Einstein, Wil Gravett, Uncle Jesse, Moose Jaw, 7 Deadlies, Justin Trawick and the Common Good, and Eastern Standard Time. The concert is free and ice cold beer will be available onsite at the bar. Must be 21+ (no outside alcohol).

6:30-8:30 p.m. Gangplank Park: 600 Water St. SW, DC; www.wharfdc.com

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On Tap | June 2017 | www.ontaponline.com

Mike of Doom One might say Mike of Doom is a personal storyteller. His songs sound like prototypical bangers, but underneath the loud club-shaking beats are rhymes carrying colorful vignettes about what it’s like in DC. All of this is a step in a new direction for the local hip-hop savant, as his previous works lacked the

Cracker Cracker, one of the darlings of the alt-country/alt-rock movement of the mid-90s, is still going strong more than two decades later. The once-bratty Richmond-based band has matured like a fine wine. Their latest album, a double disc effort

Music Picks FRIDAY, JUNE 9 SUNDAY, JUNE 18

DC JazzFest The citywide festival returns with more than 90 bands, 300 artists and various venues throughout the capital, including the famed Kennedy Center, Howard Theatre and the finale weekend at Yards Park. Throughout the week, there will be countless live performances ranging from the small and intimate to the loud and raucous; the quiet whispers of jazz to the powerful vocals under the umbrella of the same diverse genre. DC JazzFest is intended to expose the hotbed of musicians playing around the city throughout the year all in one week, shining a light for both club frequents and city neophytes. Some of the artists featured in this year’s edition include Pat Metheny, Gregory Porter, Lalah Hathaway, the Robert Glasper Experience, the Kenny Garrett Quintet, Jacob Collier and more, all culminating in the three-day Jazz in the Yards weekend at the Capitol Riverfront from June 16-18. If you’re a fan of jazz, and music in general, there are tons of opportunities here to discover a performance you’ll remember for a lifetime.

Various times and prices. DC JazzFest: Various locations in DC; www.dcjazzfest.com

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titled Berkeley to Bakersfield, shows Cracker encapsulating the sound of two very different sides of the California landscape – the harder-edged, rockstyled Northern region and the countrified area further south near Bakersfield. Expect to hear some of both, as well as tunes from the band’s classic back catalog. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25-$30. Jammin Java: 27 Maple Ave. East Vienna, VA; www.jamminjava.com

makes them among the more original bands in America. A favorite of Anthony Bourdain, Ha Ha Tonka’s music is reflective of Middle America in the 2000s with a dark view of the realities of socioeconomic hardship, backwoods prejudices and drug abuse. But the band’s tunes are leavened by wry humor and a deep appreciation for regional storytelling traditions.

Doors open at 8:30 p.m., show starts at 9 p.m. Tickets are $15.

DC9: 1940 9th St. NW, DC; www.dcnine.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 15

FRIDAY, JUNE 9, 16, 23, 30

unique blend of alt-country, rockabilly and punk since the early 90s, and they’re still going strong. With 11 studio albums under their collective belt, Old 97's – fronted by Rhett Miller – seem to get better and more accomplished with age instead of veering into irrelevance. They are recognized as pioneers of the alt-country movement during the mid to late 90s along with bands like Uncle Tupelo, Drive-By Truckers, Whiskeytown, The Jayhawks and The Bottle Rockets. Miller has described the band's style as “loud folk.”

Doors open at 6 p.m., show at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $29.50.

The Birchmere: 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Alexandria, VA; www.birchmere.com

FRIDAY, JUNE 16

Friday Night Live at Rockville Town Square Kick off your weekend with live entertainment, great company, and fantastic food, wine and beer from the restaurants at Rockville Town Square. Participating bands for June include Scotch Bonnets, Billy Coulter Band, Unity Reggae and Will Hill. Concerts are from 7-9 p.m. Free to attend.

Rockville Town Square: 30 Maryland Ave. Rockville, MD; www.rockvilletownsquare.com

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 14

Ha Ha Tonka Named after Ha Ha Tonka State Park in their native Missouri, this band’s eclectic approach to organic rock and country music

On Tap | June 2017 | www.ontaponline.com

A-Wa A-Wa is Arabic for “yes,” and this Israeli band made up of three sisters will have you yelping the phrase in any and all languages.

Fusing Yemenite traditional music with hip-hop and electronic beats, the group has transcended the classical sound into something completely and utterly new. The trio stumbled upon this style after a childhood of listening and absorbing all kinds of genres including jazz, R&B, reggae and even things like Greek and progressive rock. With the group reaching international acclaim, the future may hold songs in English, but for now you’ll have to settle on the feeling of “yes.” Doors open at 6:30 p.m., show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20-$25. The Hamilton: 600 14th St. NW, DC; www.thehamiltondc.com

Old 97's Hailing from Dallas, the Old 97's have been kicking up their

Marshall Crenshaw Singer-songwriter Marshall Crenshaw’s music reveals elements of classic soul, the British Invasion, Burt Bacharach and Buddy Holly – the latter to whom Crenshaw was often compared in the early days of his career, and whom he portrayed in the 1987 film La Bamba. The noted guitarist uses offbeat chord progressions that almost verge toward jazz while laying down deceptively simple and concise solos. A quote from Trouser Press summed up Marshall Crenshaw’s early career: “Although he seemed a latter-day Buddy Holly at the outset, he soon proved too talented and original to be anyone but himself.” Doors open at 6:30 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $20-$25. The Hamilton: 600 14th St. NW, DC; www.thehamiltondc.com

ROCKIN’ St. Paul and the Broken Bones This six-piece Birmingham, Ala.-based band is known for its scorching live shows for good reason. They have routinely blown the roof off of the 9:30 Club and other area venues, and now they’re stepping up to the larger Wolf Trap amphitheatre.

Drawing on 60s soul infused with latter day influences like Sly Stone, David Bowie and Prince, the band seems to ratchet their energy higher and higher in live settings. This show should make for an awesome summer dance party on the lawn under the stars. Show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $30-$55. Wolf Trap: 1551 Trap Rd. Vienna, VA; www.wolftrap.org

SATURDAY, JUNE 17

Who’s Bad: The Michael Jackson Experience Aside from seeing a hologram of the late King of Pop, this is probably your best option.

As far as a tribute band goes, there are few groups more committed to the authenticity of whom they cover than the performers behind Who’s Bad: The Michael Jackson Experience.

From whirling dervish dancing to impeccable vocals, these musicians have nearly perfected the nuances that made Michael Jackson one of the most notable icons in music history. So even though we can’t see the original, that doesn't mean we can’t enjoy the expansive library he left behind. Doors open at 8 p.m.

Tickets are $20. 9:30 Club: 815 V St. NW, DC; www.930.com

THE BLOCK 2017

Live Music & Local Fare Canal Park - 200 M Street SE 6:30-8:30 p.m.

6/7 South Rail 7/12 Daniel Hill

8/2 Mike McHenry Trio 9/6 Zach Cutler

capitolriverfront.org/canalpark

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 21

The Alvarez Kings The Alvarez Kings are the prototype of a successful indie pop band, touching audiences with personal vignettes laid on top of synthy sounds. Imagine a slower, more masculine Chvrches with less bounce. While you can dance to the music, it’s more of a slow burn than a rapidly building boom ending in a tremendous amount of energy. Expect to be impacted by the tension and emotion of the vocals more than other indie pop bands. Doors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $10-$14.

Songbyrd Record Cafe and Music House: 2477 18th St. NW, DC; www.songbyrddc.com

The Band of Heathens Marking their tenth anniversary as a band, the Austin-based Band of Heathens released their fifth studio album, Duende, and it might be their best work yet.

Moving away from the more acoustic sounds of their 2013 release, Sunday Morning Record, this year’s album sounds like a love child between a quick talking country record and garage rock concocted by bored teenagers during the summer. Despite the band’s longevity, they’ve shown the ability to adapt and grow their music, which is rare for Americana groups. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15-$20. The Hamilton: 600 14th St. NW, DC; www.thehamiltondc.com www.ontaponline.com | June 2017 | On Tap

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On Tap | June 2017 | www.ontaponline.com

Bokanté Founded by Michael League of Snarky Puppy, Bokanté is a groovy band formed by eight musicians from four different continents – a supergroup in the literal sense as every member is well-accomplished. The music is as soulful as it is moody, and is all sung in Creole and French.

The band’s debut, Strange Circles, offers varied knowledge, granting diverse perspectives on nuanced pictures of struggles faced in the world today. Doors at 6:30 p.m., show at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are $27.75-$54.75. The Hamilton: 600 14th St. NW, DC; www.thehamiltondc.com

FRIDAY, JUNE 23

Aimee Mann Aimee Mann is the perfect example of the modern-day artist who must work very hard to maintain a career in a brutal music business, but manages to make that hard work pay off. The elegant, slightly quirky and witty blonde songstress crafts deceptively simple folk compositions threaded with some of the most insightfully direct lyrics in the genre. Her latest album, Mental Illness, was released in March to typically glowing acclaim. Expect to hear tracks from that, as well as some of the Boston native’s classics, when she returns to the Birchmere. Show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $49.50.

The Birchmere: 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Alexandria, VA; www.birchmere.com

FRIDAY, JUNE 23

Moose Jaw at Yards Park Spend your Friday night relaxing at the Capitol Riverfront. Spread a blanket, grab a cold one and enjoy a night of bluegrass with Moose Jaw. This five-piece bluegrass cooperative is Prince George’s premier bluegrass ensemble!

Known for their eclectic mix of traditional/not so traditional and original/not so original tunes, expect to hear influences of Flatt & Scruggs, The Grateful Dead, John Legend, CeeLo Green and more. The concert is free, and the stage is located on the boardwalk. Beer and wine will be available onsite at the Modelo Especial Bar. Must be 21+ (no outside alcohol). 6:30-8:30 p.m. Yards Park: 355 Water St. SE, DC; www.capitolriverfront.org/ yards-park

Chastity Belt There’s something about this Walla Walla, Wash.-based band that sounds more mature than its collective four years in the music business. The band formed on a lark as college students, but quickly found an audience for their mid-tempo, post-punk music and wry lyrics about life, love and femininity.

In Chastity Belt’s telling, mixed feelings and haunting melodies connect dizzying anguish and steely determination to gauzy ambiguity. It’s obvious that

Music Picks Chastity Belt don’t possess technical musical wizardry - and they don’t try. What they do have in spades is simple, honest lyrics and pleasing melodies, and sometimes that’s plenty.

Doors open at 7:30 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $12$15. Songbyrd Record Cafe and Music House: 2477 18th St. NW, DC; www.songbyrddc.com

SUNDAY, JUNE 25

New Kids on the Block with Paula Abdul and Boyz II Men Let’s hear it for late-era Generation X and a heavy dose of nostalgia, because that’s what this triple bill of 80s and 90s pop music is aiming for. Word on the street is that Jordan Knight and the rest of the New Kids on the Block are having fun and sounding good on this tour, with those falsetto harmonies that the (once but no longer) boy band were known for in full effect. Meanwhile, dancer, singer, choreographer and television personality Paula Abdul still knows how to put on a show, and Boys II Men, who rocked the Democratic National Convention in Philly last summer, rock that Motown-Philly thing like no one else. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., show starts at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets start at $29. Verizon Center: 601 F St. NW, DC; www.ticketmaster.com

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MONDAY, JUNE 26

Hall & Oates with Tears for Fears Perhaps no other band from the 80s has experienced a career boomerang quite as pronounced as Hall & Oates.

Huge hit makers in the 80s, the duo’s incredibly catchy pop became something of a joke in the 90s and early 2000s, only to see a massive resurgence of interest in their well-crafted and timeless tunes over the past decade. The fact that they have moved from theaters back to major arenas is further testimony to the duo’s staying power. Tears for Fears – another 80s radio juggernaut – is the perfect opening act for this walk down memory lane. Show starts at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $35.

Verizon Center: 601 F St. NW, DC; www.ticketmaster.com

MONDAY, JUNE 26

Lindsey Buckingham and Christine McVie Christine McVie – long laboring in the spotlight of Stevie Nicks – never quite got the respect she deserved as a songwriter, singer and integral member of Fleetwood Mac. But with the benefit of hindsight, McVie’s contributions to that legendary group are coming into sharper focus. Now, she’s collaborating with Fleetwood Mac’s incendiary guitar player Lindsey Buckingham on their first album as a duo, Lindsey Buckingham/ Christine McVie. The longtime

On Tap | June 2017 | www.ontaponline.com

collaborators rekindled their working relationship in 2014 when McVie rejoined Fleetwood Mac for their 2014 “On with the Show” tour. The pair recorded the LP at Village Studios in Los Angeles, where Fleetwood Mac also made several albums including Tusk. Catch the rock legends in the flesh this month at Wolf Trap. Show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $45-$95. Wolf Trap: 551 Trap Rd. Vienna, VA; www.wolftrap.org

TUESDAY, JUNE 27

early chords with pre-famous Metallica to his celebrated career as the vocalist and lead guitarist as the famed band Megadeth. While, Metallica transitioned from thrash metal to heavy metal, Megadeth has largely stayed true to the breakneck pace of the 80s.

Album after album, hit after hit, Megadeth has remained a relevant talking point despite their aging members. And even with the old age, the group maintains an ability to muster infectious energy to get the crowd absolutely psycho. Show starts at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $49.50. The Fillmore: 8656 Colesville Rd. Silver Spring, MD; www.fillmoresilverspring.com

FRIDAY, JUNE 30 Flat Duo Jets Long before The White Stripes, there were the Flat Duo Jets, Dexter Romweber’s ferocious guitar-drums duo from North Carolina who blazed through the 80s and 90s playing some of the most face-melting roots-rock ever heard. In fact, Jack White himself has called Romweber “a huge influence on my music… one of the bestkept secrets of the rock ‘n’ roll underground.” After breaking up for more than a decade, Romweber and drummer Crash Laresh released a new record last year. The duo’s current tour has them reviving the old Flat Duo Jets catalog of molten rock ‘n’ roll with a fervor for a whole new generation. Show starts at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $15-$17.

Hill Country: 410 7th St. NW, DC; www.hillcountrywdc.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 29

Megadeth Dave Mustaine is a legend in the metal community. From his

Jason Isbell The reigning king of Americana music (and former DriveBy Trucker) returns to the Washington area just as his highly-anticipated new album, The Nashville Sound, is set for release. The title is a sarcastic swipe at the formulaic approach that Music City takes to its country stars. Isbell, a smokinghot guitar player who is just as adept at Crazy Horse-era Neil Young-styled rock as he is at pretty country-esque ballads, lives and records in Nashville.

But his award-winning music is anything but formulaic.

Advance buzz say the new album rocks harder than anything Isbell has done since his celebrated tenure with the Truckers. Doors open at 6 p.m., show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $40-$55. Merriweather Post Pavilion: 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy. Columbia, MD; www.merriweathermusic.com

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