Exploration and Laura in Town

Julia is meeting new people, making friends, and checking out some cool places. She visited the Large Animal Research Station, a facility for breeding and raising wood bison; walked a wildfire trail; and attended a bonfire with new friends. Great news--her house has a treadmill (and she's making good use of it), a definite plus for when we visit. :) 

Benjamin is busy with training. Here in DC, Laura came to town to see Mom for her birthday and some pre-wedding shopping. 

Martin's Tavern

This Georgetown, family-owned classic restaurant--open since 1933--is a gem. You can feel the history as soon as you walk in the door. The menu was extensive and everything we ordered was delicious. Our special guest this week was Meme! It was nice to spend time together and share with her all of Julia's updates.

This week, we talked about the looming November 1 deadline. Julia is working on finishing up her Carnegie early decision application, in addition to six other early action applications. Julia also shared Chris's list. He's not applying early decision anywhere, but he has a good list of schools (similar to Julia's, in fact). :)

Steven, Mom, and Julia

Presidents from Truman to George W. Bush have frequented Martin's. Favorite booths are labeled with plaques. 

Petite Crab Cake Appetizer

Rare Bison Burger with Fries.

Grilled Salmon with rice pilaf and broccoli

Seafood Pasta

Ty Cobb Salad

Recommendation: Steven said it was the best bison burger he's ever had.

Restaurant info: 1264 Wisconsin Avenue, NW, Washington, DC, 20007; 202-333-7370; www.martins-tavern.com; info@martinstavern.com

Thunder Burger

Thunder Burger is a delicious burger joint, especially if you want to try something off the beaten path. 

 

We have been here several times (including it because we went just before starting the blog). Steven has enjoyed the elk, boar, and bison burgers. Julia and I usually get the premium, free-range, 8oz beef burger with fries/salad and customized toppings (tomato, charred peppers, raw red onion, grilled red onion, mushrooms, red peppers, caramelized red onion relish, cheese, bacon, guacamole, BBQ pulled pork, avocado, fried egg...and more).

 

One time we were there, they had run out of sweet potato fries--so they comped the regular fries.

Recommendation: Try the elk, boar, and bison! Beef burger is a sure bet!

Restaurant info: 3056 M St, NW - Washington, DC 20007 - Tel: 202.333.2888