Washingtonians Taste Their Way Around Georgetown’s Culinary Options

During the afternoon of Sept. 13, the Georgetown BID hosted its annual Taste of Georgetown, a journey for the palate of Georgetown dining and beverage options. In its 21st year, the event relocated from the crowded hill of Wisconsin Avenue between Blues Alley and South Street to K Street at the Georgetown waterfront, shielded from afternoon showers by Whitehurst Freeway.

More than in years past, the Taste of Georgetown featured menu options from 35 local restaurants, including 1789’s compressed watermelon with lime salt and candied jalapeño and the Grill Room at the Capella’s beef tartar. Craft beer and wine were also offered in a special section including 3 Stars & Mercury from Pizza Paradiso and Paradise Springs Vineyards Chardonnay from Eno Wine Room.

In addition to a massive three-pound Baked & Wired cupcake eating contest, guests’ attention turned to the stage for the Georgetown Chefs Showdown between chef Gerard Pangaud of Malmaison, chef Kristy Cleaveland of the Ritz Carlton’s Degrees and chef Melanie Kurtz of Paolo’s. In the end, chef Pangaud took the win with his team, best preparing a dish comprised of secret ingredients, including Georgia skupernongs and Maryland soft crabs. The “Iron Chef”-like showdown was sponsored by Whole Foods.

At the Pinstripes station, kids played bocce ball, hula hoop, got their faces painted and participate in balloon-animal-making. Adults enjoyed alcoholic beverages in the Craft Beer & Wine Tasting Pavilion. Parents and kids alike enjoyed live country and bluegrass music brought to you by Gypsy Sally’s. Bands playing included Human Jukebox Country, Letitia Van Sant & the Bonafides and Justin T Rawick and the Common Good.

Proceeds from the event benefited the Georgetown Ministry Center.