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By Alice Levitt, Kelly Kendall and Michele Kettner
Full of Beans
This isn’t the first time that my weekly activity has involved cassoulet and it probably won’t be the last. But the one I’m supping on this week may be the only version of the bean stew that also allows me to indulge in foie gras and truffles. That’s because chef Jon Krinn of Clarity in Vienna is going all out with his entry into D’Artagnan’s Cassoulet War. In the last gasps of winter, I’m going to do all I can to eat (perhaps a little too) hearty before I start thinking about swimsuit weather. // 442 Maple Ave. East, Vienna –Alice Levitt, food editor/critic
Luck of the Irish
This time last year, the region started closing its doors and St. Patrick’s Day was essentially cancelled due to the pandemic shutdowns. Even though the region is slowly reopening, we still won’t be having the big holiday celebrations anytime soon. So, the at-home celebration it is. To top off my party of one, delicious grub and treats are a must for the holiday. I may try out corned beef and cabbage pizza or hearty Shepherd’s pie for a true Irish delicacy. You can find more scrumptious options here. –Michele Kettner, associate digital & research editor
Trotting off to Old Town
As a newcomer to the NoVA area, I’m excited to explore Old Town, Alexandria. I hear King Street has especially great shops and restaurants, and I plan to browse and dine away my Saturday. – Kelly Kendall, editor
