Sadly the bar we met in closed this year, but this is where we went on our first date!
One word--PIE!!! Oh, there are books, too, but PIE!!!
Buffalo and Bergen, Salt & Sundry, Red Apron Butchers, the list goes on. Union Market is a great destination for local to DC food, food stuffs, and more. It's one of our favorite places for a low-key, shmorgishborg type of Sunday brunch.
From the food hall to the sprawling flea market, almost anything and everything can be found here. Plus, there are great restaurants and shops along Pennsylvania Avenue nearby, including Labyrinth Games and Puzzles, a favorite of Jared's.
On our first Valentine's Day together, we went on a "Naked Art Scavenger Hunt" throughout the Portrait Gallery and co-located American Art Museum. We didn't win, but it was a fun time and the art is great!
While the Newseum is one of the few museums in DC with an admission fee, it is well worth it. From the standing exhibits to unique visiting ones, everyone--Rachel, Jared, and both sets of parents--have enjoyed it.
All the animals are great, just not the goats!
Union Station boasts a food court (with a Shake Shack), shopping mall (including a UNIQLO), and is the closest Metro station (Red Line) to the hotels.
From a great selection of charcuterie, to being host to the annual Biscuit Bash, Art & Soul is known for good food. We've eaten here a few times (including one Biscuit Bash) and everything has been delicious.
The restaurant in the Hotel George. Jared's former coworkers say it's good (his old job's holiday party is held at the George annually).
A non-membership, community synagogue, Sixth and I is where we go for the High Holidays and occasional Shabbats. Feel free to drop in on Friday night or Saturday if you would like to attend services. Note, both services are followed by meals; services are free, but there is generally a fee for meals. Check the website for more information.
A standard go-to for Jared and his friends, Jack Rose has walls of whiskey. Literally. Whether you prefer American whiskey, bourbon, Scotch, a dram from Ireland, or something from Japan or elsewhere, this is the place for you. They also create excellent cocktails with a full collection of other spirits and serve great food.