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Your Downtown Pittsburgh Dining Guide during the NFL Draft

bhlenblogadmin — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 15:14:30 +0000

As Pittsburgh prepares to welcome the world for the 2026 NFL Draft, the city’s energy, culture, and hospitality will take center stage. With hundreds of thousands of visitors expected to arrive between April 23–25, Downtown Pittsburgh and the North Shore will transform into a vibrant hub of football, entertainment, and community celebration.

Events of this scale highlight something important — finding the right places to eat, meet, and explore can quickly become overwhelming when traditional recommendations live in scattered articles, static lists, or outdated brochures.

That’s exactly why Bhlen created its Downtown Pittsburgh Restaurant Digital Guide.

Built for Moments Like This — and Every Visit Beyond

The same way navigation tools changed how people move through cities, Bhlen is transforming how people discover where to go.

While the upcoming Draft will bring a surge of visitors, this guide wasn’t created just for one event. It was built long before as a dynamic way to help people navigate Pittsburgh’s food scene with ease — whether you’re:

visiting for a major event like the NFL Draft
traveling for business
in town visiting friends or family
or a local looking for new places to try.

Unlike traditional restaurant lists, Bhlen’s guide is designed as a live, mobile-friendly experience that helps people discover places in real time, making it easy to move from inspiration to action without endless searching.

Why Dynamic Guides Matter During Large Events

Major events bring incredible excitement — but they also bring crowded streets, unfamiliar neighborhoods, and decision fatigue.

Instead of scrolling through long editorial articles or jumping between apps, Bhlen’s dynamic guide allows users to:

quickly explore curated restaurant recommendations
see locations in context with where they are
rediscover places they visited during their trip
share recommendations with friends instantly.

Whether walking across the Roberto Clemente Bridge, exploring Point State Park, or heading back Downtown after the Draft Experience, the goal is simple: make discovery effortless.

A Personal Connection to Pittsburgh

Bhlen is not affiliated with, endorsed by or sponsored by the NFL, the Pittsburgh Steelers, or VisitPITTSBURGH. However, Pittsburgh holds a special place within the Bhlen story.

Our CTO is a proud graduate of Carnegie Mellon University, giving us a meaningful connection to the city’s spirit of innovation, resilience, and community — values that helped inspire the creation of this guide.

That connection, combined with our belief in supporting local exploration, motivated us to build a resource that helps visitors and locals alike experience Pittsburgh through its restaurants and gathering spaces.

A Guide Designed for Real Life

Traditional lists are great for reading, but modern travelers and locals need tools built for real-world movement.

Bhlen’s approach transforms curated recommendations into dynamic digital guides — experiences that are:

mobile-first
easy to use without downloading an app
designed to evolve as cities and events grow.

The Downtown Pittsburgh guide reflects how people actually explore today — quickly, visually, and with context.

Explore Downtown Pittsburgh with Bhlen

Whether you’re planning your visit for the 2026 NFL Draft, traveling for work, reconnecting with family, or simply rediscovering your own city, Bhlen’s Downtown Pittsburgh Restaurant Guide is built to help you navigate with confidence.

Explore the guide here: [Bhlen’s Downtown Pittsburgh Restaurant Guide]

The post Your Downtown Pittsburgh Dining Guide during the NFL Draft first appeared on BHLEN.

A Simple Guide for Miami’s Hottest Events & Festivals – February 2026

bhlenblogadmin — Wed, 04 Feb 2026 13:42:40 +0000

What’s Happening + How to Navigate the City Like a Local

February is one of Miami’s busiest and most exciting months. The weather is perfect, the city is buzzing with international visitors, and the calendar is packed with festivals spanning food, art, music, culture, and community. Whether you’re in town for a major event or planning a long weekend escape, knowing where to go beyond the event grounds is what turns a good trip into a great one.

That’s where Bhlen comes in. Alongside this month’s top events, we’re highlighting two digital guides that make it easy to explore:

- Bhlen’s Miami Restaurant Guide for navigating Miami and Miami Beach

- Bhlen’s Black-Owned Restaurant Guide to celebrate and support Black-owned businesses during Black History Month

No apps. No paper lists. Just curated, mobile-friendly guides that help you explore with confidence.

Miami International Boat Show

February 11–15, 2026

One of the world’s largest boat and yacht shows returns to Miami, drawing marine enthusiasts, luxury travelers, and industry leaders from around the globe. Events stretch across Miami Beach, Downtown Miami, and waterfront venues.

Explore nearby:
Use the Miami Restaurant Guide to find waterfront dining, upscale lounges, and casual seafood spots near the show locations—perfect for post-expo dinners or client meetups.

Coconut Grove Arts Festival

February 14–16, 2026

This iconic outdoor festival transforms Coconut Grove into a vibrant showcase of fine art, live music, and culinary experiences. It’s a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

Explore nearby:
Our Popular Points of Interest Guide helps you navigate Coconut Grove’s nearby world-class museums, vibrant parks, and cultural landmarks without wandering aimlessly or relying on outdated recommendations.

Heritage Fest Miami

February 7, 2026

A free, family-friendly celebration featuring live performances, food vendors, and interactive activities for all ages. Heritage Fest highlights Miami’s diverse cultures and creative energy.

Explore nearby:
Pair the festival with stops from the Black-Owned Restaurant Guide to support local Black-owned eateries and experience Miami’s cultural richness through food.

Winter Party Festival

February 26 – March 3, 2026

Produced by the National LGBTQ Task Force, Winter Party Festival is a week-long celebration of music, dance, and community that raises critical funds for the LGBTQ+ movement.

Explore nearby:
Between events, use the Miami Restaurant Guide to discover late-night dining, brunch spots, and LGBTQ+-friendly venues across Miami Beach.

South Beach Wine & Food Festival (SOBEWFF)

February 19–22, 2026

One of Miami’s most anticipated culinary events, SOBEWFF brings together world-renowned chefs, tastings, panels, and beachside experiences.

Explore nearby:
Our Miami Beach Eateries and Nightlife Guide helps you continue the food journey beyond the festival—whether you’re looking for chef-driven restaurants, casual bites, or post-event cocktails.

10th Annual Soul Beach Food Festival

February 2026 | Miami Beach

Presented by The Hungry Black Man Media in partnership with The Center for Black Innovation and the City of Miami Beach, this milestone event celebrates flavor, culture, and community. Expect soul food, barbecue, Caribbean classics, vegan dishes, and bold Hispanic flavors—all in one place.

Explore nearby:
This is the perfect moment to dive into Bhlen’s Black-Owned Restaurant Guide, spotlighting Black-owned restaurants across Miami and beyond during Black History Month.

Montreux Jazz Festival Miami

February 2026

Internationally acclaimed jazz artists take the stage in Miami for a refined, high-energy music experience that blends global sounds with the city’s signature vibe.

Explore nearby:
Use the Miami Restaurant Guide to find dinner spots and lounges before or after performances—sorted by distance so you’re never far from your next stop.

Explore Smarter with Bhlen

February in Miami moves fast. Instead of juggling screenshots, search results, or paper recommendations, Bhlen helps you explore with curated digital guides built for real-world movement.

- Miami Restaurant Guide: Discover top restaurants, bars, and points of interest across Miami & Miami Beach
- Miami Beach Eateries and Nightlife: Explore Miami’s cafés, rooftop bars, and lively day or night parties any time.
- Popular Points of Interest: Explore the best of Miami world-class museums, vibrant parks, and cultural landmarks.

- Black-Owned Restaurant Guide: Celebrate Black History Month by supporting Black-owned businesses across the city

All guides are mobile-friendly, easy to access, and designed to help you spend less time searching—and more time experiencing Miami.

Visiting Miami in February 2026?
Let Bhlen be your local companion.

The post A Simple Guide for Miami’s Hottest Events & Festivals – February 2026 first appeared on BHLEN.

Show Up for World Pride 2025 In DC

Marissa Perrone — Fri, 16 May 2025 13:17:09 +0000

Here at Bhlen, we are all about elevating underrepresented voices and bringing our users together for unique experiences. That’s why we’re showing our support for the LGBTQ+ community with a Bhlen Link for World Pride, a renowned international event happening right here in DC this year. 2025 also marks the 50th annual Pride celebration in DC, and this monumental occasion will represent the community’s ongoing fight for justice, visibility, and equal rights. International superstar Shakira will be bringing the Latin beats (you can trust her–her hips don’t lie!), Troye Sivan will be turning things up, and there will even be an appearance from OG drag legend RuPaul. Cancel your plans–Pride is the plan. Whether you’re part of this fabulous community or an ally, here are a few events where you can pull up to the party and fly your rainbow flag.

Perreo Vieja Escuela at Public Bar Live (Northwest)

Kick things off on May 17th, the very first day of World Pride, in the most absolutely DC fashion: drinking at a rooftop bar. It’ll be history in the making with a view of iconic buildings as far as the eye can see. Meanwhile, you’ll sip cocktails, make new friends, and come together as a community. DJ Bambino and DJ Melina will be spinning old-school tunes for their theme of “Perreo Vieja Escuela.” The party starts at 10 PM and doesn’t stop until 3 in the morning. No FOMO, just YOLO.

Pre-Pride Tiki Boat Ride with Whitlows on Water (Wharf)

If you want to ring in Pride with a tropical twist, check out the Whitlows on Water Tiki Cruise on Saturday, May 24, from 6:30 – 8:30. You’ll set sail from the Wharf for an evening of celebrating love, justice, and diversity. Drinks are unlimited on board, so what are you waiting for? Snag a ticket before you miss the boat.

Havana Nights (Pride Edition) at STFU (Navy Yard)

Navy Yard’s favorite speakeasy, STFU, will be transforming into Cuba for the evening of June 6th. Celebrate Pride old-school Havana-style as you sip on hand-crafted cocktails and dance the rumba. Bring that vieja escuela energy by dressing in vibrant colors, fedoras, or whatever floats your boat–you do you, honey! Don’t ghost, come toast!

Arlington Pride (Crystal City)

Come out for the 4th Annual Arlington Pride at Hyatt Regency Crystal City on May 30 and 31st for an array of activities just as diverse as you are! In addition to everything happening in DC, Arlington is offering its own exciting lineup for those who are hoping to find community and allies in the Northern Virginia area. There will be Drag Brunch (because duh) and LGBTQ+ Speed Dating for anyone who is single and ready to mingle. Get ready to slay with a Drag Pageant hosted by Shi-Queeta Lee, and don’t miss Arlington’s very own Pride Festival on May 31. Time to show up and show out!

Post-Parade/Post-Protest Party at Ultrabar (Penn Quarter)

Celebrate the love, unity, and the LGBTQ+ trailblazers at Ultrabar, DC’s favorite multi-level nightclub. Join icons like Jackie Cox and DJ Alex Cohen, who will be bumping jams all evening. There will be a post-parade/post-protest on June 7th from 3-6 PM and a worldwide pregame on June 8 from 7-9 pm. Tickets are still available, but they won’t last long. March, dance, slay–repeat!

BLK Queer Film Festival at Howard University

If you’re looking for a quieter, more intellectual way to celebrate Pride, then the Center for Black Equity’s BLK Queer Film Festival at Howard University might be the perfect event for you. This free event takes place from 6-9 PM on May 27-29 at the Blackbird Digital Auditorium at Howard. On May 28th, they will be showing the award-winning film “All The Broken Pieces”, chronicling the trailblazing life of transgender activist Marissa Miller. On Thursday, May 29th, be sure to check out “Rafiki”, a Nigerian coming-of-age tale of two teenage girls whose friendship turns romantic as they try to navigate social and familial pressures. Grab your chosen family and grab your tissues, because some of these films are a downright profound experience.

The post Show Up for World Pride 2025 In DC first appeared on BHLEN.

Celebrate Vibrant Heritage: Black-Owned Restaurants in the DC Area

Marissa Perrone — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 21:35:44 +0000

In an area as diverse as the DMV, there are endless ways to celebrate Black history month throughout February and all year long. From casual lunch offerings to upscale dining experiences, Black restaurateurs are serving up delicious meals that showcase the unique, vibrant heritage of African-Americans. Bhlen is a proud supporter of Black businesses–check out our dynamic list of Black-Owned businesses near you!

The Continent DC (Downtown)
For a truly one-of-a-kind upscale experience, check out the upscale West African restaurant, The Continent DC. From the decor to the music to unforgettable food, the founders are executing a vision of authenticity true to the continent of Africa. Part of their menu is aptly titled “Back Home” and offers hard-to-find staples such as Liberian Cassava Leaf and Spicy Goat Pepper Soup. The Continent serves up amazing specials on classics like jollof rice and chicken suya for their daily happy hour, and they are also known for offering a wide array of delicious, refreshing cocktails. Come join Bhlen to celebrate Black History Month at The Continent DC on Thursday, February 20 from 3-7 PM. DJ Ty One will be creating a vibe with his one-of-a-kind remixes, and the bar will be serving a happy hour to remember.

saladworks (Union Market)
saladworks–aka the original salad entree restaurant–started as a humble salad shop in Cherry Hill, NJ in 1986. To say the salad-eating movement caught on would be an understatement. Now they have eateries in 23 states and the District of Columbia and they offer over 60 salad ingredients to create a flavor as unique as your cravings. In addition to their signature build-your-own salads, they serve wraps, paninis, and soups. The DC restaurant is located in the NoMa district of Washington DC, near Union Market, and owner Clifford Lovett could not be prouder of this thriving business. Come join Bhlen at saladworks on February 13 from 4pm to 8pm to celebrate Black History month with a healthy, delicious meal.

Ben’s Chili Bowl (U Street and other locations)
This history of Black entrepreneurs in DC would be incomplete without mentioning Ben’s Chili Bowl. The spot opened in an old silent movie house in 1958 by Ben Ali and Virginia Rollins, who married each other just 7 weeks later. When it opened, U Street was known locally as “Black Broadway,” and many jazz legends stopped in to eat at Ben’s Chili Bowl when they were performing nearby. It has remained a mainstay, surviving civil unrest following the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. and the construction of the U Street Metro, which forced many nearby businesses to close. Ben passed away in 2009, and the restaurant has since been run by his sons, who have gone on to open new locations, including one in Nats Park and an upscale restaurant/bar called Ben’s Next Door.

Georgia Brown’s (Downtown DC)
True to its southern name, Georgia Brown’s combines the style and class of a club straight out of New Orleans during the jazz age (and it has a grand piano to prove it). It opened in 1993, and has made a name as a perfect place to impress a date. The menu offers the real deal as far as soul food goes, from catfish to fried green tomatoes. Check out live music every Wednesday and the first Friday of every month from 7-10 PM.

Negus Winery (Alexandria, Virginia)
Negus Winery is an Ethiopian-owned Winery, Meadery, and Tasting Room–in fact, it is the first and only honey wine tasting room in the US. Master winemaker Gize Negussie was formerly a successful beermaker, brewing beers inspired by his homeland. When the pandemic hit, he began experimenting with creating Tej (honey wine). With his mother’s help, he worked to preserve the traditional craft of making honey wine while infusing it with modern twists. After opening in fall 2023, Negus Winery, Meadery, and Tasting Room is now open to guests to enjoy tastings and flights, and an array of bottles of honey wine are available for purchase.

The post Celebrate Vibrant Heritage: Black-Owned Restaurants in the DC Area first appeared on BHLEN.

The Bhlen Experience: Your Curated Guide to 2025

bhlenblogadmin — Mon, 30 Dec 2024 16:14:05 +0000

As we step into 2025, Bhlen invites you to embark on an unforgettable journey through the DMV area and beyond. The Bhlen Experience is your ultimate curated digital guide, designed to showcase the best restaurants, bars, and experiences throughout the year.

From new openings and hidden gems to luxury hotel bars, celebrity chef restaurants, and rooftop bars with stunning summer views, the Bhlen Experience is your gateway to exploring the vibrant culinary and social scene around you. Whether you’re looking for a cozy corner to unwind or an upscale venue to celebrate, our guide has something for everyone.

What to Expect in 2025

Each month, the Bhlen Experience will spotlight:

- Exciting new restaurants that are making waves in the culinary world.

- Hidden gems where locals gather for an authentic experience.

- Luxury hotel bars, perfect for a classy night out.

- Celebrity chef restaurants serving up signature dishes.

- Rooftop bars with panoramic views, ideal for summer evenings.

A Continuously Updated Guide

The Bhlen Experience is not static—our digital guide will be continuously edited and updated throughout the year. As new events are announced and details evolve, we’ll ensure the guide reflects the latest information. Be sure to check back frequently for newly added events, venues, and updates as each occasion gets closer!

Join Us on the Journey

The Bhlen Experience is more than a guide—it’s a community. Throughout the year, we’ll be partnering with restaurant entrepreneurs, food enthusiasts, and industry experts to bring you exclusive insights and experiences. Whether you’re dining, socializing, or exploring, Bhlen is here to make every moment memorable.

Want to join in? Feel free to meet us at the bar of any location featured in our digital guide. Or, if you’re looking for a seat at the table, reach out to us directly on Instagram for more details.

Discover the DMV and Beyond

With the Bhlen Experience, you’ll uncover the DMV’s hidden treasures and celebrated hotspots while also exploring unique destinations beyond the region. Whether you’re a local looking to rediscover your city or a traveler seeking the best spots to visit, Bhlen ensures your 2025 calendar is packed with unforgettable experiences.

So, what are you waiting for? Let the Bhlen Experience be your go-to guide for discovering, dining, and delighting in everything the DMV area and beyond has to offer.

Follow us on Instagram for updates, behind-the-scenes exclusives, and opportunities to join our adventures. We can’t wait to see you there!

Are you new to the area or a local seeking a comprehensive digital guide to explore the Nation’s Capital’s museums, monuments and more? Click here to get started!

Find us on: Facebook | Instagram | X | TikTok | LinkedIn

#TheBhlenExperience #DiscoverDMV #FoodieAdventures #HiddenGems #CulinaryJourney

The post The Bhlen Experience: Your Curated Guide to 2025 first appeared on BHLEN.

Reflecting on 2024: A Year of Growth and Gratitude

bhlenblogadmin — Sat, 28 Dec 2024 23:26:06 +0000

As we approach the end of 2024, we can’t help but reflect on how much this year has meant to Bhlen. It’s been a journey filled with milestones, challenges, and, above all, incredible support from our community.

To everyone who has cheered us on, collaborated with us, and believed in our vision—thank you. Your encouragement has fueled our growth and inspired us to innovate every step of the way.

Celebrating Our 2024 Milestones

This year, we achieved some exciting milestones that have positioned Bhlen for even greater success:

12 hotel clients now use Bhlen Links to enhance their guests’ experiences, turning static recommendations into dynamic, digital guides.
We created numerous customer-influenced digital guides, tailored to meet unique needs for specific events and occasions.
We introduced several Bhlen-Inspired digital guides, showcasing the value of curated, seamless experiences.

Looking Ahead to 2025

The new year promises to be transformative for Bhlen, with major initiatives planned to bring our vision to life:

Launching our new website to showcase Bhlen’s products and services like never before.
Kickstarting our first funding campaign, which will help us reach the next level of growth and innovation.
Pursuing our patent, securing Bhlen’s place as a leader in the digital guide space.
Expanding partnerships across industries and territories—because Bhlen is industry-agnostic and built to serve everyone, everywhere.

Our Commitment to Social Impact

In 2025, we’re doubling down on our commitment to making a difference. Through Bhlen Links, we aim to shine a spotlight on underrepresented communities and businesses, helping them capture the attention they deserve. From promoting small businesses to creating guides for cultural events, Bhlen is dedicated to driving meaningful change.

Building Something Extraordinary Together

None of this would be possible without the incredible people who have joined us on this journey. As we set our sights on the opportunities ahead, we are filled with gratitude and excitement for what’s to come.

Here’s to making 2025 a year of greater impact, growth, and innovation. Thank you for being a part of our journey. Together, we’re building something extraordinary!

#ThankYou #BhlenLinks #Growth #Innovation #SocialImpact #2025Vision

The post Reflecting on 2024: A Year of Growth and Gratitude first appeared on BHLEN.

Democracy in Action: Where to Wait Out the Election Results in the Nation’s Capital

Marissa Perrone — Fri, 01 Nov 2024 12:18:07 +0000

Election night is coming to the DC area next Tuesday, November 5. In an area brimming with political staffers and government employees, it’s safe to say that locals are invested in politics, and there’s a lot riding on this election. Whether this means you’ll be anxiously refreshing your feed or looking for an excuse to party, the DMV knows how to celebrate election season like nowhere else in the US.

Lincoln Restaurant (Downtown DC)

If you’re looking to get the party started early, head to Lincoln Restaurant from 4 to 5 for a complimentary buffet. After that, TVs will be on all night and there will be food specials and specialty cocktails with politically-charged names, like “The Red Elephant in the Room.” There will even be an Abe Lincoln impersonator to help welcome in the 47th President.

ARTECHOUSE (Southwest DC)

Election night can bring a lot of stress to those who are invested in politics. For those looking for an aura of calm, check out experimental art studio ARTECHOUSE, who will be hosting something a little unconventional. With “I Voted” stickers, patrons will get $10 of general admission to the immersive art experience set in a digital seascape, including an XR cocktail happy hour from 4 – 10.

DC Young Republicans Host at Dirty Water

For those wishing they could see the DMV turn red, Dirty Water is the place to be. Mingle with other young Republicans with an open bar for $25, including Bud and Shock Top Drafts and hard iced teas. The event invitation reads, “all patriots are welcome.” The evening will go from 6:30 until a winner is declared.

Union Pub (Capitol Hill, DC)

If insanely long lines to drink at Union Pub during the debates were any indicator, then everyone in the 202 is bound to be at Union Pub on November 5. This Capitol Hill favorite will have presidential-themed drinks and other specials, along with election coverage all night.

Shaw Tavern (Shaw, DC)

Shaw’s Tavern is hosting a one-of-a-kind election viewing experience for those who want to go all out. For $99, patrons get access to a 4-hour open bar, a buffet, and circulating apps. All night, TVs (with sound!) will be playing election coverage. Tickets are available on EventBrite.

Election Night Watch Party at Merry Pin (Takoma, DC)

For the crafty DC resident, Merry Pin in Takoma is the place to be. In a time that brings about anxiety, de-stress by making crafts with fellow DIY gods and goddesses. They will project the election coverage on a screen, and anyone working on a Kamala Harris craft will get 10% off food or beverages. The event is free, but RSVPS are required for upstairs seating.

Boundary Stone (Bloomingdale, DC)

The neighborhood pub in Bloomingdale will be running an all-night happy hour while airing election coverage starting at 8. Bartenders will be bringing back a fan favorite called “Kamala’s Coconut Daiquiri” along with other themed drinks, including the “Palate Cleanser Shot.” Reservations are recommended.

Busboys and Poets (All locations — DC, Maryland, and Virginia)

Busboys and poets emphasize their commitment to social justice and hope for a brighter future in their event details for their Election Viewing Party. All night on November 5, they will be running drink specials, showing election coverage, and making room for some cozy, optimistic vibes. Reserve free tickets on Eventbrite.

Penn Social (Penn Quarter, DC)

Penn Social is known for bringing out the inner child in us all, and Election Night is no different. This family-friendly event will be serving specials like $2 off Port City Optimal Wit and $4 off Cheesy Bread. Seating is first come, first-served, and those who are not quite voting age must be accompanied by a parent.

The post Democracy in Action: Where to Wait Out the Election Results in the Nation’s Capital first appeared on BHLEN.

Introducing Bhlen’s Newest Feature: “What’s New Near You”

bhlenblogadmin — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 13:39:53 +0000

At Bhlen, we’re always looking for new ways to make discovering local hotspots easier and more convenient. That’s why we’re excited to announce the launch of our latest Bhlen Link, “What’s New Near You,” developed specifically to help people find new restaurants, bars, and other eateries throughout the Washington, DC DMV area.

Discovering new spots to eat and drink in the Washington, DC area just got easier with our latest Bhlen Link: “What’s New Near You.” Whether you’re a local or a visitor, keeping up with the latest restaurant openings can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not on social media all the time or unsure which influencers to follow. That’s where we come in.

Our “What’s New Near You” Bhlen Link simplifies the process of finding new and exciting venues across the DMV area. This curated guide helps you stay up-to-date with the freshest dining options, featuring restaurants, bars, and eateries that have been open for around six months or less. That means whenever you visit the link, you’re guaranteed to discover venues that are brand new to the scene.

Take the Guesswork Out of Dining
Instead of scrolling through endless posts or relying on word-of-mouth, our Bhlen Link does all the work for you, pinpointing the latest openings throughout the Washington, DC metro area and beyond. Whether you’re looking for a trendy new rooftop bar or a cozy café, we’ve got you covered with real-time updates on the most recent arrivals.

Reach New Audiences with Bhlen
Are you a business owner looking to get your new venue on more people’s radars? Our team of collaborators, marketing experts, and social media influencers can help your restaurant or bar reach new audiences, bringing even more traffic to your doorstep. We work closely with new businesses to provide the exposure you need during those critical first months.

Don’t Lose Track of Your Favorites
Worried that your new favorite restaurant might disappear after its six-month feature in “What’s New Near You”? No need to stress. Simply create your Bhlen account, and you’ll be able to save and favorite venues that you want to revisit. With your Bhlen profile, all your favorites are just a click away, even after their initial run in our newest Bhlen Link.

Start exploring what’s fresh in the DMV area with Bhlen’s “What’s New Near You”—your go-to guide for staying ahead of the latest restaurant and bar openings. Whether you’re a foodie or just in search of the next great spot, our link ensures you never miss out on what’s new and exciting.

The post Introducing Bhlen’s Newest Feature: “What’s New Near You” first appeared on BHLEN.

Diwali Around DC

Marissa Perrone — Mon, 21 Oct 2024 12:19:01 +0000

Indian Americans make up about 2.5 percent of the population in the DC Metro area, and Diwali is one of the most important and exciting holidays celebrated by this community and throughout other parts of Southeast Asia. This vibrant celebration always occurs in October or November, and is based on the lunar calendar. Moonless conditions make lights, or deepas, shine bright. Even if you’ve never celebrated Diwali before, there are plenty of opportunities to join the community and celebrate the triumph of darkness over light.

National Museum of Asian Art – Asia After Dark (Washington, DC)
Asia After Dark is presenting their annual Diwali festival on Friday November 1, starting at 5 PM. Come grab a bite of traditional Indian cuisine from local vendors, including Rasa, Apna Pizza, and Malai Ice Cream. Color a diya or work with artist Trisha Gupta to craft a unique woodblock print. Take in the talents and stylings of dancing happens to your forte, turn up with DJ Rekha after hours.

National Museum of Asian Art – Diwali Family Fun (Washington, DC)
In addition to their after-dark event, the National Museum of Asian Art is also offering a chance for little ones to learn about Diwali and make art inspired by it. From 11:30 to 1:30 on Saturday November 2, kids and their families can learn about light-sensitive objects and make light-inspired crafts in the ImaginAsia classroom. Ages 5 and up, online registration recommended.

MOAPIA Presents: Diwali (Navy Yard, Washington, DC)
The DC Mayor’s Office on Asian and Pacific Islander Affairs (MOAPIA) is presenting another awesome after-dark celebration in Navy Yard. The event starts at 6:30, and will include cultural performances, southeast Asian cuisine, and a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony led by a priest after sundown. This is a family-friendly event, and free tickets are available on EventBrite.

Corral Lounge: Biggest Diwali Party (Falls Church, VA)
The Falls Church neighborhood’s favorite hookah bar and restaurant, Corral Lounge, will be hosting Dil Se Diwali, the “Biggest Diwali Party” on Saturday November 2 with a Bollywood Dhamaka theme. Celebrity SVP DJ, drinks, and dancing will make this an unforgettable night where guests are bound to feel like Bollywood stars. Attendees are welcome to dress traditional or stylish. Tickets must be purchased ahead of time on EventBrite, and there is an early bird special. Over 21 only.

Heritage India Festival at Dulles Expo Center (Dulles, VA)
On October 26-27, head over to Dulles Expo Center to experience Rushhi Entertainment’s award winning annual celebration of Southeast Asian cultural touchstones. Over 270 booths will be offering crafts, jewelry, delicacies, and other delights from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Admission is $5, and children 5 and under are free.

Diwali Mela at Murugan Temple (Lanham, MD)
On October 19, join the United Hindu and Jain temples of the DC and Baltimore area for a lively night of religious celebration and triumph. Embrace cultural rituals, like Garba and Dandia, and enjoy music and dancing with the help of locally famous DJs. There will be endless opportunities to shop, indulge in Southeast Asian cuisine, and take in spectacular performances.

The post Diwali Around DC first appeared on BHLEN.

Harrowing, Haunted Halloween Events in the DMV

Marissa Perrone — Sat, 05 Oct 2024 20:43:13 +0000

October in the DMV has officially kicked off, and the leaves are turning a crimson-orange hue in Rock Creek Park. Fall festivals are underway, offering excited patrons hayrides, apple cider donuts, and unparalleled DC-area autumnal vibes. Pumpkins, witches, and ghosts have been adorning the front steps of the historic row houses of Capitol Hill. Our favorite time of year is upon us for kids and adults alike: Spooky Season. If you’re in the mood to scream, check out the hand-picked list of local haunted experiences below.

Field of Screams (Olney, MD)
Field of Screams has been voted Best Haunted Attraction by USA today, and it’s no wonder. With over 55 themed attractions including Trail of Terror, Slaughter Factory, and Carnival Town Games, this is your one-stop-shop fear factory. Professional actors and creative designers come up with new paths of terror every year, so even returning guests can prepare to be creeped out in a whole new way. Ticket sales are online only, and they even offer a “Scream Pass” so you can check out all of the attractions they have to offer (if you can take it).

Occoquan Spirits (Occoquan, VA)
Occoquan is no stranger to spookiness year-round. A high volume of crystal and witchcraft shops, along with a rich history of hauntings, have earned it the online nickname “Occultoquan.” In true Occoquan fashion, Occoquan Spirits offers something a little more authentic than your typical October event: a tour led by a medium who communicates with ghosts throughout the tour. The tour begins in a haunted art gallery, and patrons will even have a chance to meet the resident ghost, Tad. Picture-taking isn’t just allowed–it’s encouraged, and previous tour-takers have even captured paranormal evidence on film.

Markoff’s Haunted Forest (Dickerson, MD)
If frightening forests scare the living daylights out of you, then Markoff’s Haunted Forest might be a little too freaky for you. With over a mile of haunted trails, including a haunted Town (new this year!) Markoff’s Haunted Forest is an immersive experience. Take a break from the chills and hang at the Cursed Village, where a DJ keeps the spooky soirée going into the night with dancing, food, and drinks—but only if you dare!

Halloween Haunt at Kings Dominion (Doswell, VA)
Through November 3, Kings Dominion will be running their local favorite “spooktacular” event on select nights. Park-goers can spend the day riding roller coasters and eating ice cream, but when night falls, the zombies will emerge. Haunted mazes, designated “scare zones,” and haunted houses will set the tone for a truly frightening, bone-chilling experience. If you haven’t had your fill of screaming, you can head over to a rollercoaster–KD keeps their most popular rides open during this event, for extra thrills and chills.

US Ghost Adventures (Annapolis, MD)
This veteran-owned ghost tour combines rich local history with the paranormal. Learn about the fascinating but frightening pirate-infested shores of the Severn River and Puritans with a dark, violent history. Local legends may make an appearance, like a Naval Lieutenant whose murderer was never found, or a drunk gambler who keeps haunting the town. Choose your own adventure: pick from either a regular Ghost Tour or a “Boos and Booze” Pub Tour, where you can drink in some of the same historic bars as the ghosts did when they were living.

See more local haunted attractions:

Baltimore Ghost Tours (Baltimore, MD)

Ghosts of Georgetown Walking Tour (Georgetown, Washington, DC)

Alexandria Ghost Tour (Alexandria, VA)

Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream (Williamsburg, VA)

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