Dive into the depths of French culture and cuisine in D.C. this week.
By Meghan Moriarty
Celebrated on July 14, ‘Bastille Day‘ commemorates the invasion of the Bastille Prison in 1798, and the onset of the French Revolution. This holiday reveres independence and equality for France.
Check out all the venues that bon viveurs will be flooding to for fine dining and fun!
Central Michel Richard
1001 Pennsylvania Ave, NW
Photo Courtesy of Central Michel Richard Staff
Decked out in red, white and bleu, the modern American bistro is embracing French flavor with a three-course inspired menu. Delicious favorites like escargot, tuna crudo, boudin blane, rasberry vacherin, and more will be featured for $55. Guests can sip on cocktails, wine and beer while enjoying the live tunes of Blue Room Jazz Band. To make reservations call, (202) 626-0015.
A Taste of Bordeaux
La Maison Francaise
4101 Reservoir Rd, NW
The French Embassy is throwing an exquisite gala to celebrate its national holiday on July 15. Catered by over a dozen restaurants in the D.C. area, with an open bar featuring Bordeaux wine and a silent auction for a vacation to Paris– it’s an evening you don’t want to miss. Listen to Parisian and Golden Age jazz music performed by Avalon Jazz Band and European beats by D.J. L.O.D. Tickets start at $90, and all proceeds benefit Comite Tricolore, a non-profit association promoting French culture in America.
2491 Restaurant
2941 Fairview Park Dr, Falls Church
Photo Courtesy of 2941 Staff
2491 is extending the Bastille Day celebration! From July 14-July 17, indulge in a three-course prix fixe dinner menu, prepared by French native and Executive Chef Bertrand Chemel. Some mouthwatering signature dishes include Pate de Campagne, Salad Nicoise, Escargot De Bourgogne, Plateaux de Fruit, De Mer, Lapin a la Provencal, Lobster Thermidor and Pithivier. There will also be a special debut from award-winning pastry chef, Caitlin Dysart, showing off her French and fruity dessert selection of Blueberry Vacherin, Rasberry Millefeuille, Apricot Clafoutis and more. All Sunday reservations require a $25 deposit. For additional information, call (703)-270-1500.
Hillwood French Festival
4155 Linnean Ave, NW
Travel back in time to explore the culture and art of France! The Bastille Day French Festival features performances by Happenstance Theater and New York Baroque Dance Company. Grab a glass of wine and a baguette, and take a look at Majorie Merriweather Post’s French art collection. This zen and enjoyable spot has a certain je ne sais quoi!
ENO Wine Bar
2810 Pennsylvania Ave, NW
This D.C. wine bar is going all out for Bastille Day! They’ve created an official wine flight for the celebration, with cheese and hor d’oeuvres of course. The wine tasting will feature wines from across France, focusing on a variety of different grapes. Stop by early for apps, or come after a night on the town.
The flight lasts from 5-11 PM.
Art Soiree Bastille Day Celebration at Sofitel DC
806 15th St, NW
Celebrate the National Day of France in true French style with festive evening under the open skies featuring live gypsy jazz tunes reminiscent of 1930s French cafes and dancing. Guests will choose from a wide selection of French food specialities, along with themed cocktails.
Those attending are encouraged to don their best Parisian look. The event will take place at the Terrace of Le Bar of Sofitel DC on Thursday, July 14 – 6pm-11pm.
Bistrot du Coin
1738 Connecticut Ave, NW
The epicenter for “french, fun and friendly” is having two dinner seatings at 7PM and 9PM. But, the real party gets started after hours. Make sure to wear your dancing shoes, because the Bistrot is hosting DJ Ash, other musicians, stilt walkers, and some special surprises. For dinner reservations, call (202) 234-6969.
