August is typically the slowest month for area bars and restaurants, as DC heads to local beaches and savors the last days of summer vacation before school, and work, starts back up. Neighborhood Restaurant Group is trying their hardest to keep people in DC. Last weekend it was a Cantillon blowout at The Sovereign. This weekend, Hill Farmstead returns to celebrate their 15th anniversary with Bob Montgomery from the brewery. This is probably a better way to taste the beer than smuggling growlers out of the Vermont brewery, as was the case a decade ago.
First up, an anniversary dinner at Mallard on Thursday, August 14. There are a few tickets still available. If you’d rather do things a la carte, head upstairs to Churchkey for pay as you go drafts. You’ve got twenty (20!) to choose from!
Not sure where to start? It’s gonna be hot, so maybe Mary is a good first beer, though the oaked lagers look interesting as well. Everett and George are both world class beers in styles, porter and brown ale, respectively, that don’t get enough love and once the air conditioning kicks in we’d head there next. Wheat Blanc looks pretty pretty good, and then end on something dark and barrel aged. You’re welcome!
If you’re otherwise occupied tomorrow, The Sovereign has a guided tasting with Montgomery on Saturday from 12-2pm, and we suspect that drafts will hang around for a bit if you’re returning to the city on Sunday. Who knows, maybe a stray keg or two will end up at Shelter and The Roost as well.
Additionally, next week is Restaurant Week in DC, and Bluejacket, Mallard, and The Sovereign are participating, with optional beer pairings. We suggest you check that out.
Hill Farmstead will be back in DC for Snallygaster 2025 on October 11. There may be a few VIP tickets left.
