This weekend in DC is a little slow.  Not too much going on in the culinary scene.  Although not much is going on, there are still plenty of things to do.  So this weekend I am going to highlight a few places that I love to go to eat. The location this week is Annandale.   They are a little out of the way for you DC and Maryland readers, but well worth it.

The Mount Vernon Gingerbread House – (Nov. 12-24)

Roland Mesnier the former White House Pastry Chef is constructing a replica of George Washington’s Mount Vernon.  Every day from the 12th to the 24th Roland will be constructing the replica in the Vaughan Lobby from 10am to 3pm.  Visitors can watch as Mesnier constructs the masterpiece, which will include intricate details such as works of art on walls and several marzipan figures.  The best part is that admission to the Mount Vernon Estate is not required to visit the Vaughan Lobby, so this is totally free.

Great Places to Visit – Annandale, Va

Honey Pig Gooldaegee Korean Grill – 7220-C Columbia Pike, Annandale, VA 22003

Honey Pig is a hip Korean BBQ grill.  With good music, fun atmosphere and the fact that it is open 24 hours makes this a go to place for Korean BBQ.  I recommend the Sam Gyup Sal (Pork Belly), Kalbi (short ribs) and Bul Goki (marinated lean beef).    Don’t forget to get some soju (Distilled rice liquor, similar to vodka with around 20% alcohol content).

A & J Restaurant – 4316-A Markham St, Annandale, VA 22003

A & J is a northern style Dim Sum Restaurant.  Featuring small plates and awesome soups.  I recommend the Beef and Tendon soup with the wide noodles.  I am also a fan of the Nyo Lo Sa Bing – a beef pasty that is awesome.  A & J only takes cash so stop by the ATM on the way.

Lighthouse Tofu – 4121 Chatelain Road, Suite 100, Annandale, VA 22003

Soon du bu is a Korean stew made with uncurdled tofu and spices.  It can include a protein such as beef and seafood.  You can get it with kimchi.  Plus you can order how spicy you like it.  The stew is served tableside with rice and a raw egg.  Break the raw egg into the boiling stew and eat.  Awesome.  I am a fan of the spicy kimchi beef.  The bonus is that the Soon du bu comes with a never ending supply of  fresh kimchi, spicy cucumber salad, bean sprouts, and radishes.  Once again don’t forget about the nice selection of Korean Beers and Soju.

There are a ton of other great restaurants in Annandale, but these are hands down, my favorites.

Have a great weekend.

-Rex