DC: Food as a thread through Time
Cherry Blossoms in DC for the "Peak Bloom"
Seeing the cherry blossoms was never on my bucket list.
Funny enough, I did put a photo of Japan on my vision board this year—and not just any photo, but one filled with cherry blossoms. So I guess the manifestation worked in its own roundabout way?
Anyway, back to D.C. I’ve never seen a city go so all-in on a flower. Yes, it’s not just any flower—but still, the level of dedication is impressive. The entire city is in theme: pink everywhere, cherry blossom decorate every coffee counter, limited-edition merch, even limited edition DC sports teams within theme. As someone who loves marketing, it was fun to see what was basically a city-wide activation for spring.
I’ve been to D.C. a few times before, but the last trip was over a decade ago. Interestingly, the things I’ve missed most about it weren’t the monuments—but the food I used to get whenever I visited.
This time, I came to visit my boyfriend, who was in town for a conference. Seeing a place through someone else’s lens—especially someone who lived there for three years—made the experience feel fresh. He lived there recently and the last time I went I was still in college, so we knew the city from very different angles. But together, with the flowers in full bloom and our daily average of 18k steps, it was the perfect way to take in the city again.
Friday: Work, Walks & a Whole lotta Food
I started the day working from Tatte Bakery, a cozy spot that’s basically remote work heaven—with its bright interiors, steady hum of conversation, and endless matcha options. Breakfast was simple but satisfying: overnight oats and a matcha that hit just right. For lunch, I went with shakshuka—comforting, spiced, and tomato-y in all the best ways.
The first time I ever had shakshuka was in Boston, nearly 14 years ago. Sitting there in D.C., eating the same dish all these years later, I couldn’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia. It brought me back to my college self and reminded me just how far I’ve come. A full-circle kind of moment, even in a different city.
That afternoon, we did a mini walking tour of the Capitol—an opportunity to take in the grandeur of the architecture and the deep history layered into every corner. We wrapped up the day with dinner at Maydan, a restaurant that truly feels like a explosion of flavor. The moment you walk in, the scent of wood-fired cooking greets you, and you know you’re in for something special. From the spreads to the grilled meats to the warm, haloumi cheese, everything was incredible. Our waiter was part of the magic too—super warm and helpful—and by the end of it all, we were absolutely stuffed. Worth every bite. Decided to walk one hour and half back to the hotel to bajar la comida. Excellent. People. Watching. Too.
Saturday: Coffee, Cherry Blossoms & Cupcakes
Saturday began at Café Ministry, a quiet little spot with a well-crafted coffee menu. With the caffeine kicking in, we set out for a walk along the National Mall. It was “peak bloom” day for the cherry blossoms, and the city felt alive and buzzing with excitement. Despite the crowds, there’s something magical about being surrounded by crowds of people celebrating a flower. People flocked from all parts of the world to take photos and fly their kites. It was a magic celebration of community.
For lunch, we walked to Yellow in Georgetown, a Levantine café serving bright, bold flavors. Their freshly baked pitas were just what we needed after nearly 4 hours of trekking through the city. There was a long ling and everyone working there was so happy. Opted for the pita wraps and we basically didn’t even speak for the entire meal, that’s how good it was.
Obviously, the entire reason we went to Georgetown was for my absolute favorite cupcakes—Baked and Wired. I dream about these. Often.
Their classic Funfetti cupcake, Uniporn and Rainhoos, takes me straight back to college. One bite and I’m instantly transported. I used to get one every time I was in D.C., and I’m happy to report: it’s just as good as I remember.
I don’t recall the line being that long back in the day—but honestly, it was completely worth it.
Dinner was at Amazonia, a lively spot that brings the vibrant flavors of Peru to D.C. The energy here is infectious—lush greenery, colorful plates, and bold, tropical flavors that make it feel like a mini escape from the city. It reminded me of a few restaurants in Colombia and a place I would go to celebrate a birthday over the delicious pisco cocktails.
Sunday: One Last Taste of D.C.
On our final morning, I couldn’t resist another stop at Yellow, this time at their Union Market location. We had gone the day before for their famous shakshuka croissant—yes, there’s definitely a theme here—but when we tried to go back the second day, they were already sold out. It seems I’ll just have to go back for it.
Lunch was a special treat: an afternoon on an office rooftop with a great view of the city. There’s something about seeing D.C. from above—with its low skyline and the monuments scattered in the distance—that makes you appreciate it in a whole new way.
Maybe next time I’ll return for those classic views of the monuments… or maybe I’ll just come back for the shakshuka croissant I never got to try.
Either way, something tells me I’ll be back.