Weekend Away: 14th – 16th in Washington, D.C.

Willard Hotel: $ This hotel is a special place where we have stayed a few times.

Occidental Grill and Seafood: $ This place has been in operation since 1947 and has its walls covered with autographed photos of the famous and powerful who have eaten there. It is restaurant week in D.C., so Bruce had the 3-course meal of water cress and goat cheese, flat iron steak, and apple tart, which Bruce was kind enough to share with me. I opted for a baby beet salad and the grilled duck breast with gnocchi and cabbage. Bruce ordered a brandy which was served over a glass of hot water. Classy service and delicious food.

Zaytinya: $ This Greek-style restaurant was packed with people eating delicious small plates of food. We ordered stuffed grape leaves, giant beans with kale, fried Maine shrimp with heads, lamb chops, fried mussels, and a wonderful yogurt and apricot desert. We had another dish which I can't remember. For those who watched Top Chef, this is the restaurant where Michael Isabella is executive chef.

Having Michael Isabella come to our table for a chat: PRICELESS!!!

My husband and I have now been to two of the restaurants of Top Chef contestants. Other Blonde Girl and FreshGreens and we are hoping to go to Volt. For the men in our families, don't you think this could be a great combo June birthday present? Is anyone interested in making a reservation at Kevin’s restaurant in Atlanta? Could be another priceless experience.

Besides eating, we also visited the American History Museum and spent time in the Julia Child exhibit. When looking at her kitchen and her accomplishments, I wondered what she would have thought of the program Top Chef. We did not leave a pound of butter.