FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 14, 2008

LET'S EAT OUT: OUTDOOR DINING IN THE DISTRICT

Whether you're in the mood for a delicious brunch, an ice-cold margarita on the rocks or a fresh seafood feast, grab a table at one of DC's eateries with outdoor seating. Here's a roundup of this season's newest outdoor dining hotspots, along with a few favorites of our DC insider favorites.

A chocolate-lover's paradise, Co Co. Sala (929 F St. NW; 202-347-4265) is slated to open its doors downtown this month. The unique coffee, chocolate and cocktail lounge specializes in espresso and chocolate-based drinks, artisanal chocolates and pastries. Patio diners can sit street-side, indulging in chocolate-based drinks (including cocktails) and artisanal chocolates. The restaurant also serves savory small plates for lunch and dinner, plus a five-course selection of decadent chocolate desserts with flavors derived from cuisines around the world.

Voted one of 2007's hottest new restaurants by Esquire, Brasserie Beck, (1101 K St. NW; 202-408-1717) just opened a large outdoor dining area this spring, accommodating approximately 70 guests. Much like the handsome interior, the patio continues the European ambience outside with comfortable furniture, including two banquettes for cozy seating. Patrons can cool off under the 10 by 10-ft. umbrellas and enjoy an ice cold Belgian beer off the 126-item menu. The patio also features an outdoor chef's table that seats 8-10 guests.

Another Belgian favorite, Belga Café (514 8th St. SE; 202-544-0100) opened its outdoor dining space for the season, providing approximately 20 seats for patrons to enjoy delightful weather. Dining over the weekend? Fill up on Belga's famous Belgian waffles served with sugar, fresh fruit and whipped cream, then head over to Eastern Market located just a few block way. Belga Café is also open daily for lunch and dinner.

Jose Andres' Oyamel Cocina Mexicana (401 7th Street NW; 202-628-1005) has added 16 outdoor seats to accommodate its guests hungry for award-winning Mexican fare and thirsty for signature cocktails. Located in Penn Quarter, the eatery was named one of the "Best New Restaurants in America" by Esquire in 2007 and received a 2008 nomination for RAMW's (Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington) Upscale Casual Restaurant of the Year.

For a taste of New England seaside fare, head to Hank's Oyster Bar (1624 Q St. NW; 202-462-4265) in Dupont Circle to feast on Chef Jamie Leeds' selection of fresh oysters, clams and her famous Lobster Roll while dining alfresco. Cool off with the Cherry Stone Blossom, a concoction of vodka, sake, a splash of house-made lemonade and house-mixed cherry juice served with a cucumber wheel garnish.The patio is open for lunch and dinner and weekend brunch.

Those looking to feast on delicious mezze - small plates of the Mediterranean while catching a summer breeze can check out the 40-seat patio at Zaytinya (701 9th St. NW; 202-638-0800). Be sure to try Zaytinya's Pom-Fili, a refreshing cocktail made with white wine, vodka, triple sec and pomegranate juice for $8 by the glass or $24 by the pitcher (plus tax).

Still can't decide? Head to Washington Harbour on the Georgetown waterfront where restaurants offer spectacular views of the Kennedy Center, Washington Monument and other landmarks. Agraria (3000 K St. NW; 202-298-0003) serves up farm-fresh salads, meats and other modern American dishes on its outdoor patio. Craving some Latin flavor? Cabanas offers a variety of Latin American dishes to enjoy al fresco while watching boats cruise along the Potomac. Or grab a table at other hotspots like Sequoia, Tony & Joe's or Nick's Riverside Grill and catch a cool breeze while dining under the stars.

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About Destination DC: Destination DC, the lead destination marketing organization for the nation’s capital, is a private, non-profit membership organization of more than 1,000 businesses committed to marketing the area as a premier global convention, tourism and special events destination with a special emphasis on the arts, cultural and historic communities.