That's *so* DC: DC Loves Politically Themed Establishments

I suppose it should come as no surprise that the city that is home to the nation's primary executive, legislative, and judicial powers would capitalize (no pun intended) on these associations. Consequently, the District of Columbia is home to several politically themed establishments and I always find myself impressed and amused by some of the turns of phrase bar, restaurant, and shop owners have developed.

My friend, Joel, recently moved into an English basement apartment in Capitol Hill. A couple of weeks ago, I journeyed over to check out his new digs. While we were setting up his AV equipment, it became apparent that pizza and beer were necessary ingredients for this kind of work. He Googled pizza places nearby and laughed when he found the closest one, a lovely establishment called We, the Pizza. "Only in DC!" he remarked. "That's * so * DC," I replied. (If you're a mushroom fan, the Forest Shroomin' Pie is to die for, by the way.)

(Image lovingly borrowed from Google Images)

On what was perhaps one of the best first dates I've ever been on, I had an opportunity to patronize Policy for the first time. Definitely a little more upscale, nay pretentious, but I'm a sucker for good themes and accompanying decor. Policy's slogan is "Truth. Love. Liberty." The walls are decked out with graffiti inspired presidential portraiture and idealistic messages (akin to those in the slogan). Vibrantly colored chandeliers hang from the ceiling. The ambiance is extremely hip (not to be mistaken with hipster) and certainly gorgeous, but it's the kind of place where they likely call the bartenders "mixologists." (You've been warned.)