National Union Building

Taste of DC Academy brings together two things that Washington does exceptionally well: serious food culture and a good excuse to spend an afternoon eating and drinking. The focus here is barbecue paired with bourbon, a combination that gives the experience a clear point of view rather than trying to cover every corner of the local dining scene. The format is built around tasting, with the chance to dig into the details behind the food and pours instead of simply showing up for a meal. That makes it a better pick for curious diners who enjoy knowing what is on the plate and in the glass. It also has the easy social appeal of a shared tasting without requiring the commitment of a formal dinner. If you like your food events with a little education and a lot of flavor, this one earns a spot on the calendar.