Nickodemus is an artist I often play in my yoga classes. I don’t know how to describe the music except that it’s “loungey” and not distracting. It’s upbeat but not obnoxious so it can be played int he background without being too overwhelming, which is why it works for my yoga classes. When I found out Nickodemus was going to be at 18th Street Lounge, I wanted to check him out PLUS I’ve heard so much about this place I wanted to check it out as well. We stopped here after dinner at Birch & Barley, and upon walking in, I felt like I just entered someone’s home. The place was sectioned off into different rooms with charming, Victorian-style furniture lining the walls. The vibe was so chill and relaxed with the music not to blaringly loud to the point where a conversation couldn’t be carried. The volume was just perfect! I really liked this place and hope to visit again soon.
BTW, Theivery Corporation is another group you’ll often hear in my yoga classes, and one of the guys from that group is the founder/owner of 18th street lounge. Loved it!
This place has to be the most beautiful restaurant I have ever been to. The interior design incorporated elements of wood, stone, glass, and steel. One side of the wall is lined with washed out bricks, while the other is of organically-designed wooden shelves displaying glass vases and calla lillies. This place is actually known for its beers and above the restaurant is a beer bar with 500 beers from around the world. They do tasting menus where they suggest a beer for each course. I LOVE beer so was thrilled to go here for dinner for Shawn’s birthday. I was impressed with the decor and service. The menu items seemed interesting with some common basics that always work and some new, creative items. We started with a figs & proscuitto flatbread and a shrimp, tarragon risotto. Both were great, but have to say the flatbread stood out. For the main course, I had duck breast, and I was so excited to see this on the menu because I love duck, but was pretty disappointed when it arrived. It was too gamey and didn’t have enough flavor, like it was missing an accompanying sauce. Oh well… We finished our meal with a cheese plate and mousse cake. Cheese was phenomenal while the dessert was okay. Next time, I’ll be ordering only appetizers and cheese… and of course, beer!
I stopped by 
I walked home empty-handed and disappointed… but picked up more pizza, this time from We, the Pizza (Good Stuff’s sister restaurant) – 2 slices for later. LOL It’s the weekend – I can indulge! Don’t judge me!!!
I am now officially a MINT private trainer! I started this Tuesday and trained my very first client this morning! I’ve worked out there a few times and took a spinning class, and really love the vibe of this gym. It’s definitely a place I can see myself at for a while. Two classes were offered to me on Monday and Thursday mornings at 6:30AM, and they wanted me to teach something related to a “bootcamp” style. I hope to pick up some spinning and yoga classes soon and hopefully, these classes will give me some exposure as a trainer there though new.
Next stop, Eastern Market/Capitol Hill!
Here’s what Eastern Market looks like on the weekend. 7th street is blocked off for stands of different farmers’ produce and local artists. Line all along the street are tables full of interesting artwork and fresh food. And I live a 5 minute walk from here!!! I knew after my first stroll through Eastern Market on a Sunday afternoon that this would be where I wanted to live. I’m afraid I’ll keep myself isolated in this neighborhood and never explore elsewhere. Thank god I work in a different neighborhood; otherwise, I’d probably never leave. 
