With the National Cherry Blossom Festival in full swing and peak bloom less than 10 days away, blossom celebrations can be found around the DMV. If you’re looking for a way to celebrate, food and drinks are the way to go. Whether you want to grab some cocktails before a trip to the Tidal Basin or spread out a picnic among the blooms, these cherry blossom-themed food and drink options are a great addition to the celebrations.
Blossom Blast cocktail
Before you head to the Tidal Basin, kick off the day with a refreshing drink. This pretty pink cocktail is made with Patron Anejo National Harbor Barrel, St. Germaine, tropical jam, lime, orange bitters, and egg white. Grab this limited drink before it leaves the menu on April 11. // Voltaggio Brothers Steak House: 101 MGM National Ave., Oxon Hill, Maryland
Black Cherry Pisco Sour
While you’re in DC, grab a cherry-themed drink to add to your celebration. This one includes Caravedo Pisco, black cherry, lemon, Peychaud’s, and cherry bitters. // 1789 Restaurant & Bar: 1226 36th St. NW, Washington, DC
Cherry Blossom Gelato
Get your ice cream fix while you walk along the blooms. Dolci Gelati is bringing back its delicious cherry blossom flavor just in time for spring. Whether you want to eat as you walk or enjoy a scoop at home, the gelato is available in-person, for pickup, and via delivery. // Dolci Gelati: 107 N. Fairfax St., Alexandria
Cherry Blossom’s Cherry Picks
To celebrate the annual blooms, Tony & Joe’s Seafood Place and Nick’s Riverside Grill are whipping up some delicious grub. Head over to Tony & Joe’s for broiled cherrywood bacon-wrapped shrimp and a refreshing cherry basil spritzer, made with vodka, cherry syrup, and lemon. If sweets are more up your alley, Nick’s Riverside Grill is the place to be. The restaurant will be serving a cherry blossom brownie with housemade ice cream and black cherry sauce, and a boozy cherry float soda. // Tony & Joe’s Seafood Place: 3000 K St. NW, Washington, DC; Nick’s Riverside Grill: 3050 K St. NW, Washington, DC
Cherry Blossom Sangria
You know the weather is getting nice when the sangria comes out. The seasonal beverage combines Wycliff brut rose, Lustau blanc vermouth, cherry juice, and orangeflower water for a refreshing spring drink. This sangria is available at Ada’s on the River, The Majestic, Mia’s Italian Kitchen, Theismann’s Restaurant and Bar, and Vola’s Dockside Grill, for dine-in and takeout services. // Alexandria Restaurant Partners: Multiple locations, Alexandria
Hanami at Hamilton
Nothing says spring like a picnic. The Hamilton Hotel will be offering a variety of specials to celebrate the blossoms. This package includes a picnic basket filled with cheese, charcuterie, and a bottle of wine and 10 percent off rates at the hotel. If a hotel stay is not in the books, non-guests can still purchase the picnic basket. // Hamilton Hotel: 1001 14th St. NW, Washington, DC; $150 for picnic basket
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