Specialty beer releases, multicourse wine pairings with dinner, a veritable buffet of Del Ray specialties: June is shaping up to be a busy one for festive-food-and-drink fans. Here are some of the month’s top picks.
Taste of Del Ray, June 3
The 10th annual rendition of one of Del Ray’s signature events kicks June off in style. More than a dozen restaurants are joining in the proceedings, allowing attendees to sample the wares of such varied kitchens as Southern-themed Live Oak Restaurant and the Mexican roots of Los Tios. When you’re done perusing the menus and enjoying unlimited samples, do your civic duty and vote for the People’s Choice award. Pat Miller Neighborhood Square at the corner of East Oxford Avenue and Mount Vernon Avenue. 1-3 p.m. Advance tickets $15 for adults, $5 for children; day-of tickets available only if the event isn’t sold out.
Paradise Springs Wine Dinner at Columbia Firehouse, June 14
One of the closest wineries to Alexandria, Paradise Springs is bringing its wares even closer still to the heart of Old Town for one night. The winery is pairing with Columbia Firehouse to offer diners a multicourse meal with a selection of wines for each course. Start the evening with battle creek oysters paired with a cabernet franc/merlot rose, proceed through your entrée and dessert, and taste the likes of beef tenderloin and meritage wine along the way. 109 S. St. Asaph St. 7-10 p.m. $98 per person; reservations recommended.
Easy Cooking Creations Class at Spice and Tea Exchange, June 19
Throughout the spring and summer, the Spice and Exchange in Old Town is hosting monthly courses to help would-be chefs harness their power. This month, Chef Jill Siena will walk participants through “easy entertaining” recipes with an aim of creating a menu perfect for a summertime party (and using ingredients from the host spice purveyor). 6:30-8:30 p.m. $35. Register by calling the store at 571-312-8505 or emailing alexandria@spiceandtea.com.
“It’s Raining Cats and Dogs” Derecho Party at Port City Brewing, June 23
If it’s summer, it’s time for Port City Brewing to release its annual Derecho Common beer, a California common style first brewed — by virtue of circumstance — in 2012 once the brewery lost power following the storied summertime derecho. This year, Port City is putting a spin on its typical release party and turning it into a fundraiser of sorts. From 2 to 4 p.m., volunteers from Lost Dog and Cat Rescue Foundation will be on site for a pet adoption event, and all day 10 percent the proceeds from both the Rocklands and DC Slices food trucks will benefit the Friends of Puerto Rico. There will also be a “Dunk the Brewer” booth, the proceeds of which will also go to Friends of Puerto Rico. 3950 Wheeler Ave. Noon-10 p.m.
Hope Nelson owns and operates the Kitchen Recessionista blog, located at www.kitchenrecessionista.com. Email her any time at hope@kitchenrecessionista.com.