Columbia Heights may now be a restaurant destination thanks to new additions like The Coupe, El Chucho, Kangaroo Boxing Club, and others. But The Wonderland Ballroom has been there from the beginning with its quiz night (which some might consider the toughest in the city), live music, and a beer garden that’s open rain or shine.
It’s a neighborhood institution that few want to see change, but recently, the bar introduced something new. Don’t worry, this is a good change: a nightly “Blue Plate” special. As a regular who’s lived in the neighborhood since before Target was a hole in the ground, I welcome it with open arms.
The Blue Plate special immediately improves Wonderland’s regular menu. Not that I wasn’t satisfied with the chili nachos with liquid cheddar, but it’s nice to pair something new with my blueberry pancake beer.
The new menu kicked off in mid-October, and I’ve been twice since, trying out the chicken and waffles and pasta special. Both are worth a repeat. Here’s what you’ll find the other days of the week:
Monday: American Pie Special
Tuesday: Pupasa Dinner
Wednesday: Pasta Night
Thursday: Chicken and Waffles
Friday: Fish and Chips
Saturday: Order any burger or “Kung Food” classics and get a free beer
Sunday: 8 oz. Steak Dinner