The DC Bucket List, Part 3: Coffee

The first two parts in this three-part series extended beyond my usual self-imposed 1000-word limit, so I saved these four new coffee shop reviews for the finale. At this point, I’m honestly sick of this theme but also incredibly invested. So without further ado, I share my latest coffee ventures.

M.E. Swing Co. – This is hands-down my favorite Washington, D.C. coffee shop to date, rivaling that of my absolute beloved Stumptown Coffee Roasters (inconveniently located in California, New York, Oregon, and Washington) and Ninth Street Espresso (another New York establishment). They operate on limited hours, shame on them. It’s dark. It’s uninviting. The menu is confusing. The customers know what they want. The baristas know how to get the customers what they want. There is plenty of seating—indoor and out. The pastries are rumored to be seasonal and delicious; however, I cannot speak to that experience yet. I told myself when I started working in the city, I would frequent this place, instituting myself as a regular. I need to live out this dream.

Bathrooms? There are none, sigh. The quality of the coffee has allowed me to overlook this flaw.

Chinatown Coffee Company – This venue is neighbor to my office, making it a tempting stop when I feel rebellious towards Starbucks (i.e., The Bucks is not running a promotion.). On my first visit, my latte tasted more like milk than coffee. On all succeeding visits, the iced coffee has not been quite strong enough. In reading, please recognize my tolerance for strong is above the average consumer, thanks be to Pops. They’re touted for their espresso, which I have not tried straight up. The Baristas seem to be in a perpetual hurry, not allowing time for questions, and of the hipster variety.  Should you go? The choice is yours.

Bathrooms? They certainly aren’t responsible for my stopping in.

Sidamo – This is an Ethiopian coffee shop I visited in a pinch and then revisited by choice the very next week. They do not do iced coffee well. But I like the people behind the counter. I like the big window flooding the shop with natural light and the overall atmosphere. I also like the looks of the gigantic double chocolate chip muffins, which I have refrained from ordering both times—go me!

Bathrooms? Just clean enough to not be considered dirty.

Bourborn Coffee – This is a Rwandan coffee shop. They do iced coffee perfectly. Even more exciting, they sell a perfectly good, locally sourced sugar cookie. The free sample lured me to this discovery. And led me to do some research and learn that Bourbon Coffee is a great place, doing great things. They practice direct trade, focus on sustainability, and encourage cultural integrity… all while nailing quality. To bring the Rwandan community to yours, you can shop for art while visiting; it’s just one piece of their big puzzle! There is even outdoor seating at umbrella covered tables.

Bathrooms? Occupied during the duration of my visit. Not cool. But I’m not putting that on Bourbon, quite yet.

I’m curious… where do you coffee?

The DC Bucket List, Part 2: Food

Moving right along to the food category, I have stuffed my face at these establishments and mostly enjoyed my time.

Hank’s Oyster Bar – Eh, real tight space and real loud. In addition, I found myself nursing a stomach ache for the duration of the evening. And while everything I managed to eat was delicious, I found everything I ate to be a bit overpriced. It was also a real stressful situation, which might have further dampened the experience, as this is where Boyfriend’s parents met my own. I would go back for the AK-47, my drink of the evening. It was everything I need a good drink to be—a strong, not sweet, spice-infused tequila concoction.

Bathroom? Real tight and real loud, just like the dining hall.

DGS Delicatessen – Without a doubt, the best Rueben I have consumed to date. And I have been to Detroit, Michigan! I foresee this as the only place I will Rueben henceforth. So much goodness in one sandwich. Also of note, incredible iced coffee. The biggest disappointment was the fact DGS does not have to-go cups because otherwise refill, stat. I will go back. And I would be OK sitting in a basement, which was originally seemed disappointing.

Bathroom? DGS bodes the most confusing bathrooms! After some trial and error, the picture of the female led me to the correct bathroom. Not all females are so obvious! Further, I had never seen this as a way to label bathroom sex prior to DGS, I have since seen this style fifty bajillion times. I do not prefer this style, no, not one bit.

Lavagna – As a substitute for Ted’s Bulletin, it was not that great. However, had I given this place a fair shot, I think I would have enjoyed my meal more. The chicken and waffles were not what I was expecting. It wasn’t bad, just not like other chicken and waffles I have had. The biscuits and gravy, which I split with Boyfriend were also very different than what either of us pictured. Everything was locally sourced, perhaps that’s the price you pay? There are so many places to try, I doubt I will wind up at Lavagna again.

Bathroom? I did not visit. I used the bathroom at Ted's Bulletin twice while we waited, only to be later served by Lavagna instead. Tough Sunday.

The Greek Deli – I visited The Greek Deli prior to my The W experience. I stood in line with all of Washington, D.C. And I enjoyed my experience as much as all these bystanders I assumed to be regulars did theirs. My only complaint was the placement of a random plant, which hid the entire menu, preventing me from making my selection until it was almost too late. Oh and no bathrooms, big complaint. The staff was incredibly friendly, almost too friendly. I will go back, even knowing it’s a hike from my office and there will be the aforementioned line. This establishment is only open for the weekday lunch. The Greek Deli is clearly doing something right, I would kill for hours like those.

Bathroom? Again, no. Wah.

Toki Underground – My third attempt was what could be called a success. We got there before 6:00 pm on a Saturday. We patiently waited an hour and a half to be seated. And then we dined on heaven in a bowl. I opted for Kimchi Ramen, Boyfriend went for the classic. They were both scrumptious. I was totally sold on the poached egg floating in my soup. I love eggs, especially when poached… and oh my goodness, such a fine addition to a bowl of noodle dough in broth. The biggest up or downside to Toki is the 29 total seats, so don’t expect to be seated (quickly or) with a party bigger than three. And, I guess I should mention while I left stuffed, I was hungry about two hours later. I will go back, though. Often, I hope.

Bathroom? It is only as I write now I’m realizing I did not visit the bathroom. Poorly played.

Food Trucks – Captain Cookie provided my first true Food Truck experience, serving up of the greatest combination of time: Trickling Spring Creamery chocolate milk and two cookies—chocolate chip and Nutella. It was so delicious. I have been dying to go back for seconds. But lucky for my waistline, the Food Trucks rotate streets throughout the week in a rather unpredictable fashion. (The trucks can be followed online… but time.) Then this past weekend, Boyfriend and I were out doing our grocery shopping and stumbled upon… Astro Donuts. If there is anything to be noted about my food priorities, know donuts rank in my top three (with bagels and M&Ms). So we had to stop! We intended to share one donut as we were minutes away from attending a barbeque, but the Food Truck Man messed up our order and we ended up with an extra donut. What a problem! These were ahhhh-mazing donuts. And guess what? I don’t have to stalk this truck because they have a permanent location near my office. Life is so good.

We purchased the maple bacon donut and were gifted a cinnamon donut. For my Kansas readers, the frosting on both donuts was identical to the butterscotch frosting at Daylight Donuts, when Mr. Ken was in charge. Food speaks to my soul when it brings back memories of my formative years.

This was truly a life highlight. Last comment (and I’ll stop with the analysis), these donuts were so good I could have gone sans frosting, sugar, or toppings. The core donut was just right. It’s an impressive feat, really. I will be back. I will introduce friends.

Bathroom? Food Trucks don’t have bathrooms, so no comment there.

The Italian Store –This off-the-beaten-path gem has been written up more than I can count. Boyfriend and I like sandwiches, bunches and bunches. But ever since the C.A.H. began his career at Jimmy Johns, I have been hooked on their #6 and have had no reason to seek sandwiches out elsewhere. I did try Taylor Gourmet, which makes a decent roast beef for almost $3.00 more than my Jimmy John’s go-to, no thank you. Anyway, being in the general vicinity, we decided to finally give The Italian Store a go. The sandwiches were simple and delicious, with an essence of Jimmy Johns provided in the hot and sweet peppers topping on our Carpri and Marini sandwiches. There are no cups for water, rude. (There were bottled drinks for purchase.) I went to the neighboring establishments—Starbucks, CVS, and Giant—in search of free water to no avail. I ended up with a pre-tax $1.00 gallon of water from Giant. If you have to pay for water, you must price compare! I would go back, if I was in the area and hungry and had a water bottle and an empty bladder. I would not go out of my way to visit.

Bathrooms? Nonexistent, huge con.

My summer targets include Bayou Bakery, BonChon Chicken, Le Diplomate, Mussel Bar and Grille, and Ted's Bulletin. Is your stomach calling? You're invited.

The DC Bucket List, Part 1: Activities

This is a three-parter. Go!

I have what seems to be a forever expanding Washington, D.C. Bucket List. Though I have no intention to leave this city anytime soon, my Montanan farm life is tugging at my heart and has been for some time. (I must be prepared for when the opportunity presents itself!) Recently I have had a slew of visitors here in the Mid-Atlantic, a perk to living in a city with much to offer, and as a result have made tremendous progress to shrink The List.

Here it is, with my review, of course:

Old Post Office Tower – I visited this treasure in early April, with the company of Boyfriend and his parents. This was not on our tightly scheduled weekend agenda; however, I could not resist bringing the troops in as we walked by en route to the Metro. Who knew this is considered a National Park? Bonus point, for you. I’m really glad we visited, despite M.R.B.’s adverse reaction to heights, because the Old Post Office Tower is currently being renovated… and this being DC, who knows when it will reopen.

 The at-a-glance  –

• The purpose? 360 degree views. And spectacular they were!
• Cost? Free.
• Bathrooms? Present, fragrant, aging, nevertheless functional.
• Would I recommend this to a friend? Yes.
• Would I go back? Most definitely.

The United States National Arboretum – This was crossed off last weekend while a fellow Returned Peace Corps Volunteer was in town. We had more fun than intended (blatant lie!) on Saturday and were looking for something lazy to do on Sunday after brunch, once we realized kayaking the Potomac River was out due to flooding.

The at-a-glance  –

• The purpose? Pretty trees and flowers. We had incredible weather, enhancing the experience that much more. In addition to natural beauty, the National Capitol Columns can be found resting in Ellipse Meadow. It’s quite an unusual landmark!
• Cost? Free.
• Bathrooms? Yes. But mostly out of order.
• Would I recommend this to a friend? Yes, I already have.
• Would I go back? Assuming none of these things change, I would certainly revisit.

The W – Drinks on a Monday afternoon, overlooking DC with friends. Yes, please! This was the easiest Monday I have lived in quite some time. The drinks were was delicious, despite the cost.

The at-a-glance  –

• The purpose? Panoramas of the cityscape. The views, though not nearly as spectacular as the Old Post Office Tower or as pretty at the National Arboretum, were nice. The weather again made the experience of the rooftop terrace bar even better.
• Cost? Just above the average [DC] non-happy hour price.
• Bathrooms? So fancy! Who doesn’t like a trough style sink? Plus, a full length mirror—I’m sold.
• Would I recommend this to a friend? Yes.
• Would I go back? Probably not go back on account of expense, though I would not turn down being taken back! Ahem, Boyfriend.

Union Market – Best DC bagels yet. When you are four hours from New York, New York, you must make do. So while these are not Brooklyn bagels, as claimed, their chewy goodness stands a fighting chance at my rationalizing a six mile bike ride each time I need a mouthful of bagel heaven.

The at-a-glance  –

• The purpose? Wandering. Eating. Shopping. Hanging.
• Cost? If you stick to the Trickling Springs Creamery chocolate milk (for $1.80/pint) and the ($1.00) bagel, you’ll find the prices quite reasonable. (My heart is happy with just these two things!) If you allow your eyes to wander throughout the market’s vibrant mix of restaurants and retail, the sticker shock may hit you.
• Bathrooms? With patience, yes. There are forever lines!
• Would I recommend this to a friend? I have already brought a friend back.
• Would I go back? Need you ask.

Rosedale Recreation Center – So while Rosedale Recreation Center was not specifically on The List, “Swim in DC” was. The recreation center boasts a pool (and gym and library and playground), in the city. And it was everything I wanted over the Memorial Day weekend and more. I was with friends under the sun floating between lethargy and activity. This one trip matches the number of times I swam all last summer (minus the whole triathlon thing). I do not intend to re-do 2013. I will visit pools and be merry all summer long. Bring on the heat. And the unsupervised children.

The at-a-glance  –

• The purpose? To soak up Vitamin D amongst friends.
• Cost? Free for DC residents. 
• Bathrooms? Spotless. I will be back to judge come Labor Day.
• Would I recommend this to a friend? Doubtful, this is my secret hangout now. 
• Would I go back? You will find me there all summer long!

Washington National Cathedral – Boyfriend and I, along with Mrs. C and M.E.K’s youngest sister, C.M.C., spent Memorial Day touring the cathedral. This is somewhere I have wanted to visit for a long time, but especially so after the August 2011 earthquake. The earthquake took quite a toll on the cathedral, and unlike the Washington Monument, which reopened this month after years of repair; the cathedral will not be repaired/restored for some time. Though there was an exhibit featuring the damage, it was not as extensive as I would have hoped. We jumped on a school-group tour, as there were not enough docents for a tour of our own, and learned a little more about the damage; I still wasn’t totally satisfied.

The cathedral itself, however, was gorgeous! And I learned a lot about the history throughout the tour. The construction began in 1907 and was not completed until 1990. So while it’s old, I’m actually older in terms of “finished” products. Weird, I know. I also acquired some interesting, not at all useful facts about Gothic architecture while Boyfriend wandered what seemed like aimlessly because he claimed he knew everything there is to know about this style architecture. Nerd.

The at-a-glance  –

• The purpose? To learn. To appreciate. To be spiritual.
• Cost? There is a $10.00 price tag Monday through Saturday, as of January 2014—you snooze you lose, which will probably keep me from revisiting, though I understand and respect the need to raise funds to repair this iconic cathedral. 
• Bathrooms? There is a bathroom, albeit with bizarre piping.
• Would I recommend the tour to a friend?  Sure.
• Would I go back? I would go back for a (free) Sunday service. I think that would be a neat experience.

What a time it has been!

Low, Part B

Then you see, I woke up only to realize I had to go to work. Already. Mondays can be so cruel. And Monday, 5/5, did not disappoint. There was an after hours work function, a mandatory after hours work function at an establishment of the non-Mexican variety. It was not Cinco de Mayo—holiday of margaritas—or anything.

Tuesday, 5/6 – I managed to maintain my cool for all of three minutes before total breakdown mode commenced. I had tickets to a Washington Nationals baseball game following work. But even baseball has been a real depressing topic as of late. Before Tuesday night, the Atlanta Braves had been on a seven-game skid. (The Braves would go on to win on this night. Amen, Justin Upton.) The Braves—among much help—could use a Nationals loss, so I saw to that. I also got to see Clayton Kershaw pitch. 

(Can we please take a moment to recognize his immense talent? Can we also take a moment to acknowledge that the Los Angeles Dodgers have a line-up to envy? They should be unstoppable.)

What was on the plate for this rainy Wednesday? The job situation was no worse than any of the previously described days. Also no better. Huff, puff. The highlight was definitely meeting Mrs. C for a Tex-Mex dinner at Lauriol Plaza. She traveled all the way from Kansas to see me go to a conference. There was also trivia, including more domination. At this point, I cannot recall the last time I paid for drinks without a gift card at Black Rooster. Free food. Free drinks. And further, I found 12 cents  throughout the course of the day. I am set to retire, stat. 

Tomorrow will come. It’s Team Meeting day, so it’s bound to be a doozy. There is celebrating to do post 5:00 pm, which I will try to keep on the forefront on my mind less some minuscule person or tasks ruins my life. What are we celebrating, you ask? Boyfriend landed what could nearly be considered his dream job after more than a year of both full-time work as a temp and searching. He needs to be congratulated… in the form of a Cigar City and Hardywood Tap Takeover at Rustico.

As for the rest of my future, it’s gloom.

Low, Part A

Low. That is my life right now. The sleepless nights have returned. The sporadic eating habits. The uncontrollable emotions. The immense hatred towards all things not Starbucks and M&Ms. The breaking out like a sixteen year old. I am an unfortunately miserable being.

Why? My job is dumb. And because office tales are boring for all people uninvolved, you will simply have to take my word for it. Not only is my job dumb, a problem I could handle, I hate the work. And not just a whiny-complainy dislike, this is a full-blown hatred. As a result, these past few weeks have been a horrid blur of awfulness.

I suggest you quit reading now. Life is about to get real. There may be some grand, wonderful things I could write about, but I am numb to those things. Awesome as they may be, they do not feel so awesome in that moment. They feel forced. They feel like out of body experiences. Oh the fun! 

The recap I do not actually recommend you read.

Monday, 4/28 – Miserable day of work, followed by an exhaustive evening of a full apartment scrub-down. 

Tuesday, 4/29 – An exceptionally miserable day of work, followed an evening of cooking. And meal prep for the week, two days behind schedule.
Wednesday, 4/30 – A solid eight hours of awfulness, followed by trivia. Our hodgepodge team, scrambled up minutes before the start of trivia each week managed to continue our winning streak, taking home victories for best team name, half-time shots, and first place gift certificate—a clean sweep, one might call it.

Thursday, 5/1 – A plain, miserable May Day, followed by drinks with K.S.D. at Carpool. Drinks that went very late into the night... on a school night.

The calm, quiet weekend I envisioned was anything but. After a real long day at the office, which included an extended lunch with my not so beloved New Boss. (I shant complain too much as we dined at District Taco on Fish Taco Friday.) To extend the day further, I walked home from work in hopes of absorbing Spring weather. Then I sprinted to Eat Bar to celebrate A.J.S.’s new (and greatly improved) position at her employer of choice. And revel we did with a happy hour that went until I hit the sack.  Saturday, I had some time in the morning to make myself a breakfast of eggs, beans, and sweet potato fries before Boyfriend and I were off to volunteer at the Library Book Sale. We had so much fun organizing books. I do not kid. We literally plotted ways to improve upon the sale next year. So much fun. If you doubted my love of books before, the doubting should cease now. There were some gems—beloved childhood books to all my favorite current reads to the History of Nations, Volume 19: Africa, Boyfriend’s pick. We could have filled a library (or two). There were SO many to choose from.

(It should be noted that I might love organizing more than books. The overwhelming excitement I experienced by spending my free day organizing books. Well that, I cannot explain.)

When we finally left the book sale, hours after the end of our shift… we met friends for some loitering around our neighborhood. And in doing so, we hit up a thousand free samples—Yappy Hour, Whole Foods, Starbucks Frappuccino Hour, Grateful Red—before finding an establishment to settle in and complain endlessly about work. Actually, I think that was just half the group. But it was my half so it shall be documented. The conversation gradually improved to things like food, specifically ice cream sandwiches. Even more specifically to homemade ice cream sandwiches. Naturally, this was our next move. The necessary ingredients were gathered and the baking of cookies ensued. Turns out, ice cream sandwiches require ample (i.e., a lot of) freeze-time. From what I remember, we enjoyed cookies while playing Mario Kart and thought about how great our ice cream sandwiches would be the next time we all get together. That will be in an approximate month, if history repeats.

On Sunday, I ran 14 miles. I like to feel accomplished. Proceeding those two hours of nonsense, I showered. You are more than welcome. Then I immediately ran (yes, more) to Brooklyn Bagels for—you guessed it—bagels. And maybe an egg. And onion. And cheese. I also brought an apple and left over sweet potato fries because I knew the aforementioned simply would not be enough. From breakfast, I convinced Boyfriend a bike ride would be fun. (I can convince him of such fun precisely once a year. This was a BIG deal.) He was sold on the Gravelly Point destination. 

We pretty much sat on a blanket eating snacks as we watched the planes come and go from Reagan National Airport for the entire afternoon. Blissful it was, as I recall. The rest of the night was rather uneventful; I was asleep before 9:00 pm.

Life continues...