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Best Bites

2012 Best Bite #20: Jersey Shore pizza, Graffiato

Each day in December, I’m celebrating my best bites (and sips) in 2012, posted in chronological order.

Jersey Shore pizza
Jersey Shore pizza

Why it’s a Best Bite: For the second part of the trip I mentioned in yesterday’s post, I spent a few days exploring DC and spending more time with friends. As avid Top Chef fans, we decided to check out Mike Isabella’s first restaurant, Graffiato. Considering where we’d spent the days prior, it seemed especially fitting to try this edible tribute to the Jersey Shore. The crispy calamari and provolone made excellent toppings, and the zing of the cherry pepper aioli against the blistered crust brought the pizza together.

The details: Graffiato, 707 6th St. NW, Washington, DC.

Categories
Best Bites

2012 Best Bite #19: Mason jar cocktails, Back Bay Ale House

Each day in December, I’m celebrating my best bites (and sips) in 2012, posted in chronological order.

Mason jar cocktails

Why it’s a Best Bite (Sip): In August, I reunited with a group of great friends from college at one friend’s family beach house in Atlantic City, New Jersey. One of the many highlights was this sunset dinner outside on the lively patio’s picnic tables. While we came for the seafood, we also came for the novelty of “Basin Mason” cocktails served in 32-ounce mason jars. I admit that I fell in love with the presentation – there’s just something about slowly sipping from a vessel that’s down-home humble and beach-chic at the same time. I was partial to my fruity hurricane, pictured above between a mojito and a Long Island iced tea, but the oversized drinks come in enough varieties to suit nearly everyone.

The details: Back Bay Ale House, 800 N New Hampshire Ave., Atlantic City, NJ.