secret knowledge of backroads.

My Stomping Grounds In:
The H Street Corridor / The Atlas District

Since speaking about Rock & Roll Hotel in my summer "nightowl" post, I have decided to expand and talk about a section of DC that I've been frequenting quite a bit.

H street NE is an up-and-coming area of DC. Once a bustling part of the city, the H Street District suffered setbacks following the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. and the ensuing race riots of 1968. Recently, the area has been revitalizing and focusing on the arts & entertainment sector. Named after the famous Atlas Theater, the Atlas District boasts a number of hotspots. The area is a lot easier to access using public transportation following the recent addition of a free H Street Shuttle. It travels a convenient route between the Chinatown and Minnesota Ave metro stations. There is also the option of the X2 metro bus, or as always a trusty (and more costly) cab ride.

Besides Rock & Roll, my most frequented H Street venue is Sticky Rice. In fact, it is a lot like a second home. Foremost, the staff are wonderful and accommodating. I now consider many of them friends. The food is delectable and fairly inexpensive. They boast sushi and tater tots and they now have delicious brunch! After dinner, Sticky turns into a boisterous nightspot with a great atmosphere and a gong. Tuesdays are karaoke night hosted by the talented Andrew Herndon, Wednesdays are BLINGO hosted by the elusive Russell, and the weekends bring DJs, dancing, and trivia. Sticky Rice is the total package for a restaurant/bar establishment. Check out all the deets at http://www.stickyricedc.com.

Another restaurant in the area that I thoroughly enjoy is Dr. Granville Moore's Brickyard. This gastropub is meant to be a bit grimy, but the food is totally worth it. I am not a beer drinker, but all my friends rave that the offering of over 50 beers is spectacular. The Belgian fare is delicious and the low-key environment is relaxing and welcoming. I would highly recommend mussles, frites, and a brownie for dessert! More info at http://www.granvillemoores.com.