We’re so excited to have Aysia Woods guest post today on You, Me & DC! Aysia calls herself a “professional people gatherer” and guys, she is amazing at it. Philadelphia born and raised, Washington DC educated (fellow GW alum!), Aysia brings many years of experience with the city we call home. Check her website out and go to her events. They are seriously so fun.
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The District has been my home for nearly seven years now – gosh, how time flies. We tend to describe this city as “transient” and I can’t say I disagree. Being a non-DC native who’s been here for this long, I feel like quite the rarity! In honor of my seven memorable years, I want to share with you my seven favorite spots in Washington, DC. As a meetup organizer (come join us, Art of the Journey!) and event planner, these go-to places have consistently impressed me from atmosphere to service and beyond. Let’s get into it!
Food & Drink
Bread Furst Bakery
I couldn’t be more grateful that this cheery bakery is my neighborhood cafe. Not only has founder Mark Furstenberg won a prestigious James Beard Award for Outstanding Baker, but Bread Furst simply has the most delicious pastries. They tend to use floral and citrus flavors in their goodies, which is right up my alley (I recommend the lavender honey donut). Also, their large communal table gives the bakery a strong family vibe that is always heart-warming.
Buck’s Fishing & Camping
Don’t let the name fool you, this restaurant much more chic than your average camp site! Served under a literal canoe ceiling are dishes featuring the best local produce, meats, and fish. My picks are usually the Caesar salad and whatever fish meal is on the menu that night. Buck’s decor is so creative and stunning – you have to see it to believe it.
Lapis
Only three things to say about this gem – Middle Eastern food, vintage decor, handsome waiters. Go. Go, now!
Nightlife
Eighteenth Street Lounge
If you know me, you know my love affair with this lounge. It’s sexy, there’s plenty of seating, a diverse crowd, smooth yet upbeat music, decently priced drinks, and Wednesdays are reggae nights. Honestly, it takes a lot for me to want to go anywhere else for a fun night out! You can usually find me on the patio in the corner dancing like nobody is watching.
Ben’s Next Door
This technically could have gone in the above “Food & Drink” section above, but I put it here because going to Ben’s Next Door for a late night hangout is wonderful! This is the formal, sister restaurant to Ben’s Chili Bowl. They serve the same sinfully good food, but in a lively bar environment. If you’re looking for a more laid-back night on U St., I recommend checking it out.
Shopping
Friendship Heights
Over Georgetown and Metro Center, Friendship Heights is my favorite shopping area in the city. Due to it’s location (straddling the District and Maryland), it tends to be an unfrequented neighborhood by downtowners. Not only does it have a plethora of high-end stores, but it also has my beloved World Market, Marshall’s, Michael’s, Whole Foods, and Sephora. Great stores with minimal crowds!
One Final Random Thing
Polished Salon
Located in Georgetown, Polished does the best Bikini and Brazilian waxing in all of DC. Trust me! They are quick, efficient, friendly and affordable. Ladies, thank me later.
Hope you’ve enjoyed this list of my seven favorite spots in Washington, DC. Happy exploring and I’d love to know if you visit any! Hope to see you around, friends.
