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The phrase “farm-to-table” has become so ubiquitous, wasn’t it really only a matter of time before it had its own dedicated week? More than 30 restaurants, including Birch & Barley, Del Campo, and Jaleo, are participating in Farm-to-Table Restaurant Week today through Sunday, offering special menu items and deals on locally sourced dishes and drinks.
The promotion is part of Think Local First’s Eat Local First DC, a week-long celebration of all things local and edible. Events include a garden tour of Bloomingdale, a happy hour featuring foraged cask ales, and a block party at Union Market. Check out the full line-up of happenings below. No word yet on when Nose-to-Tail Week and Artisanal Week begin.
“How Local Food Grows Our City” Flash Talks and Kick-Off Party
Monday, July 22, 6 to 9 p.m.
Local food movement leaders like FRESHFARM Markets co-founder Ann Yonkers and Neighborhood Restaurant Group’s Michael Babin will give “flash talks” on the city’s food movement at a tasting party at Woolly Mammoth Theatre. Tickets are $35.
Femivore Talks and Awards Happy Hour
Wednesday, July 24, 6 to 9 p.m.
Think Local First will recognize three women awarded the “Femivore Award” for their work in the local food movement in an evening of food and drink at the Heurich House Museum. The women will compete for guest votes for $1,000 toward their locally sourced food projects. Tickets are $35.
Thursday, July 25, 6 to 9.m.
Try foraged cask ales from eight area breweries at Meridian Pint. Each beer features ingredients you could forage in the D.C. area. There will also be all-local beers on the bar’s 24 taps plus local ingredients specials from chef David Shewmaker. Two cask drink tickets are $10 and available for purchase in advance.
Edible Urban Garden Tour and Happy Hour
Friday, July 26, 5 to 8 p.m.
Take a self-guided tour of Bloomingdale’s backyard, balcony, and rooftop gardens and community gardens. (Maps will be distributed the day of the event.) Afterward, head to Big Bear Cafe for a “seasonal garden cocktail.” Tickets are $15.
Saturday, July 27, 1 to 7 p.m.
The week culminates with a block party at Union Market featuring 125 vendors dedicated to all things local. Look for restaurants, chef demos, speakers, and other food and beverage producers. Suggested donation of $5.
UPDATE: Also, Washington City Paper is hosting a Drink Local (Grapes) First event Friday evening. Details here.