Lauren Pike

It’s been great spending time in fantastic venues that I had previously made the mistake of overlooking. However, the absolute best part of working for Party Earth has been revisiting some of my favorite haunts in the city and learning insider secrets – like the unpublished reservation policy at Dr. Granville Moore’s – from the staff. My social life (and waistline) may never be the same again!

As I entered a dimly-lit bar on a Thursday evening for one of my first reviews, I thought the most excitement I could expect was watching a few brave souls try their luck at karaoke. I was sorely mistaken – thanks to the hospitality of the piquant owner, I had so much more in store. We ended up moving to his other establishment a few blocks away, and the evening quickly devolved into debauchery that included a silly hat party and light-up furniture on a secret patio. Everyone was so cool, from the bartender to the patrons, that we ended up staying until the sun started to rise the next morning. It was an unforgettable evening at one of my favorite places in the city.

“Off the beaten path” should be my middle name. Like Jonah, if it’s underground, unpretentious, and edgy, I want to be there. From (formerly) smoky rock clubs to hole-in-the-wall dives, this girl is happiest with an ice-cold craft beer in hand and an interesting cast of characters all around.

To shake off the cobwebs of the night before, my first stop is the good folks at Peregrine Espresso for a damn fine cup of coffee before perusing vintage shops and local boutiques on U Street. New baubles firmly in hand, it’s time to catch up with friends over bottomless Bloody Marys at Masa 14 or delightful donuts served with the Boozy Brunch at Birch&Barley. After a rejuvenating class at Tranquil Space yoga studio, sushi and tater tots at Sticky Rice are just what the doctor ordered. From there, it’s off into the wonderland of the H Street Corridor to see what the rest of the night has to offer.