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.

Rooftop Bar Retreats: Elevated Experiences in the DC Area

bhlenblogadmin — Sat, 11 May 2024 12:13:02 +0000

Rooftop Bar Retreats: Elevated Experiences in the DMV Area

There’s something magical about sipping cocktails while taking in panoramic views in and around our nation’s capital from a rooftop bar. From breathtaking monuments to vibrant cityscapes, the Washington DC area offers an array of rooftop destinations. Whether you’re a local looking for a new hangout spot or a visitor seeking the perfect Instagram-worthy experience, here are some of Bhlen’s best rooftop bars throughout the Washington DC area. Click here see our entire interactive list for your smartphone.

Washington DC:

VUE Rooftop – Hotel Washington DC: Perched atop the iconic W Hotel, POV offers unparalleled views of the White House and the National Mall. Sip on craft cocktails crafted by expert mixologists while soaking in the historic landmarks that surround you.
Top of the Gate: Located at The Watergate Hotel, Top of the Gate boasts sweeping views of the Potomac River and the Kennedy Center. Enjoy handcrafted cocktails and small plates in a chic and sophisticated setting as you watch the sunset over the city.
Officina Rooftop: Situated in the vibrant Wharf district, Officina Rooftop Terrace offers stunning views of the waterfront along with delicious Italian-inspired cuisine and refreshing drinks.
12 Stories: Nestled atop the InterContinental Washington DC – The Wharf, 12 Stories offers breathtaking views of the Potomac River and the Washington Monument. Indulge in creative cocktails and small plates while taking in the vibrant energy of the waterfront below.
The Rooftop at the Graham: Tucked away in Georgetown, The Graham Rooftop offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere with picturesque views of the historic neighborhood. Enjoy handcrafted cocktails and seasonal bites while admiring the charming cobblestone streets below.
Whiskey Charlie – The Wharf: Situated in the heart of the SW Wharf, Whiskey Charlie offers craft cocktails and light bites. Residents, hotel guests, and visitors alike will enjoy the most spectacular views of the water and beyond with stunning sunsets sitting atop DC’s Canopy by Hilton Hotel.
Crimson View: Situated atop the Motto Hotel, Crimson View offers sweeping views of the city skyline and the bustling Chinatown neighborhood. Relax in a stylish and modern setting while enjoying creative cocktails and Asian-inspired small plates.

Maryland may be known for its picturesque coastline and charming cities, but it’s also home to some of the most stunning rooftop bars in the region. From waterfront vistas to city skyline panoramas, these rooftop destinations offer the perfect combination of ambiance, views, and libations. Here are some of Bhlen’s best rooftop bars throughout Maryland to visit this summer. Click here see our entire interactive list for your smartphone.

Maryland:

The Bygone: Located in Baltimore’s Harbor East, The Bygone offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and the Inner Harbor from its rooftop perch. Step back in time to the golden age of aviation while sipping on handcrafted cocktails and savoring upscale American cuisine.
Replay at Pose Rooftop Lounge: This rooftop lounge with its rap around terrace offers spectacular views of the Potomac River during the day and the National Harbor lights at night. After 9pm this rooftop transforms into 21+ only atmosphere with a trendy 80’s themed pop-up bar offering 80’s-themed cocktails, retro arcade games and the best of 80’s music.
Hip Flask Rooftop Bar: Situated in Bethesda with an elegant bar and floor-to-ceiling windows on three sides, Hip Flask offers an upscale bar with scenic views. Enjoy American fare & crafted cocktails while soaking in the skyline.
Skye Bar and Grille: Located in Ocean City, Skye Bar and Grille offers sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and the bustling boardwalk below. Sip creative cocktails, dine on fresh seafood, and take in the views of the ocean, bay, and everything in between. This is a lively hangout destination with a complete raw bar, happy hour specials and live music.
Metropolitan Kitchen & Lounge: Nestled in Annapolis, The Rooftop Bar offers a cozy, airy space perfect for hanging out with friends or simply a place to unwind and soak up the sun. This rooftop is first come, first serve, and offers a unique craft beer menu featuring over 40 craft beers, as well as a one-of-a-kind Custom Cocktail menu featuring seven exciting options.
Monte Carlo Rooftop Bar: Located steps from the beach and boardwalk, this rooftop bar will wow you with breathtaking views of the bay and the Ocean City skyline. Opened Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend, Hotel Monte Carlo rooftop features a refreshing rooftop pool, as well as a rooftop bar, with fun with games like Connect-4 and foosball.

When it comes to enjoying a drink with a view, Northern Virginia offers an array of rooftop bars that elevate the drinking experience to new heights. With gorgeous views of Washington DC within range, Northern VA offers stunning vistas of the nation’s capital from most of its rooftops. Here are some of Bhlen’s best rooftop bars within the state of Virginia and to explore. Click here see our entire interactive list for your smartphone.

Northern VA and beyond:

The View of DC/The Observation Deck at CEB Tower: Located in Arlington, the Observation Deck offers unparalleled views of the Washington, D.C. skyline and beyond. Situated atop the CEB Tower, this rooftop destination boasts 360-degree panoramas, making it the perfect spot for sunset cocktails and Instagram-worthy snapshots.
The Perch @ Capital One Center: Perched above the bustling streets of Tysons Corner and deemed “a park in the sky”, this rooftop bar offers sweeping views of the area’s skyline. On top of Capital One Hall and connected to the Watermark Hotel, this rooftop offers experiences like no other in the DMV area. Soak up the skyline and toast fellow patrons at Starr Hill Biergarten, play a round of golf at Perch Putt, an 18-hole miniature golf featuring food trucks and a Tiki Bar or enjoy an outdoor concert, either way you will never forget this experience.
Skydome Restaurant: Located in Arlington, the Skydome Restaurant offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of the DC skyline and the Potomac River. Located atop of the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Washington DC Crystal City, enjoy stunning cocktails, local beers, and perfectly paired wines. Whether you’re enjoying tapas or a specialty cocktail, this rotating rooftop destination provides a memorable setting for any occasion.
Wilson Hardware: Conveniently located in the heart of Clarendon, this rooftop oasis offers a retractable awning for a year-round rooftop experience. Wilson Hardware Kitchen & Bar offers a contemporary selection of bar fare and burgers, signature, and summer cocktails, as well as tap and bottled beers.
Q Rooftop Bar at Quirk Hotel: Tucked away in downtown Richmond, Q Rooftop Bar is a favorite spot for an evening cocktail. This open-air rooftop bar has over 2,800 sq ft of space, offering inspiring views of the downtown skyline. With a cocktail, wine, and beer list different than the lobby restaurant’s menu, this laid-back atmosphere is the ideal spot to unwind after a long day or kick off a night out on the town.
Amuse – Hotel Le Meridian: Overlooking the Potomac River, this French bistro in Arlington, VA, is perfect for a sit-down business lunch or an elegant dinner while admiring breathtaking views. Relax with a cocktail in hand and soak up the ambiance of this vibrant neighborhood.

Whether you’re seeking a romantic date night spot, a lively hangout with friends, or simply a place to unwind and take in the scenery, these rooftop bars throughout the DMV offer an unforgettable- experience with breathtaking views, delicious drinks, and vibrant ambiance. So why not elevate your evening and toast to the beauty of the area from above? Cheers! Click here see our entire interactive list for your smartphone.

The post Rooftop Bar Retreats: Elevated Experiences in the DC Area first appeared on BHLEN.

Arlington - BHLEN

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

Rooftop Bar Retreats: Elevated Experiences in the DC Area