The Bitter Presbyterian, served at Republic.
RAISING THE BAR
Republic in Takoma Park is serving up seasonal cocktails and a special happy hour bar menu, available weeknights from 3 to 7 pm. The new drinks contain homemade bitter-lemon syrup, including the Bitter Presbyterian—spiked with sour mash whiskey, Domaine de Canton, lime juice and mint. The bar menu features oysters, mussels, sandwiches and jerk-spiced sweet potato chips. 6939 Laurel Avenue; 301-270-3000. republictakoma.com
AMERICAN REVIVAL
José Andrés’s ode to American cuisine, America Eats Tavern, is expected to reopen in its new home in The Ritz-Carlton, Tysons Corner in early June. The menu will feature classics with a twist, such as cornmeal-crusted rockfish and peanut soup. 1700 Tysons Boulevard; 703-744-3999. americaeatstavern.com
GARDEN PARTY
Jardenea, the restaurant at the revamped Melrose Georgetown Hotel, has garnered attention for chef Nate Lindsay, whose new menu spotlights fresh seasonal ingredients. Standouts: rosemary-skewered Maine scallops and jumbo asparagus risotto. 2430 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW; 202-955-6400. melrosehoteldc.com
TROPICAL RETREAT
Tucked into the Costa Rican rainforest, Nayara Hotel, Spa & Gardens welcomes guests to stay in private casitas with views of the nearby Arenal Volcano. The luxury property features a spa suspended in the trees, an infinity-edge pool and gourmet dining. Rates from $700; nayarasprings.com
CAPITAL GETAWAY
The third President would no doubt approve of the way his namesake hotel welcomes visitors. Throughout 2014, The Jefferson, Washington, DC treats guests in its specialty suites to a bottle of wine that reflects the suite’s theme. For example, guests in the Butterfly Suite receive a bottle of Domaine des Baumard, Clos du Papillon Savennière. Suites from $749. jeffersondc.com
THE GREAT OUTDOORS
Celebrate nature—and enjoy a cooler climate—at Trout Point, a five-star lodge in Nova Scotia. The 100-acre estate invites guest to explore the Tusket and Napier Rivers by canoe or kayak, venture on nature walks or simply soak up the scenery in the hot tub. Two acclaimed restaurants on-site specialize in local seafood and grilled meats. Rates from $269; troutpoint.com