As 2014 come to a close, it is a time to reflect and take a look back on the year. Here are my favorite bites of 2014. They include bites from the DC, Maryland and Virginia area but also some of my travel bites from Charleston, SC, New Orleans, LA and Tampa, FL.

Dining in DC, Maryland and Virginia

Mussels a la Vodka
Graffiato, Washington, DC

The pot of mussels, shrimp and sausage with the zesty tomato vodka sauce is served with a side of polenta fries, sprinkled with fresh grated parmesan. You may not want to share!

Shrimp and Grits
Gypsy Soul, Merrifield, VA

This is the best shrimp and grits I have had in a long time. The creamy grits are served with big shrimp and a savory gravy.

Gazpacho
American Eats, Tysons Corner, VA

The crunchy croutons and the fresh veggies compliment the gazpacho and celebrates summer’s bounty.

Frozen Custard
Goodies Frozen Custard and Treats
National Harbor, Md

 Nothing says summer like sweet creamy frozen custard. This was my favorite finds this year. I use to drive down to Fredericksburg to Carl’s to get a taste. Now getting this treat is only a short drive away to National Harbor.

Maple Glazed Bacon Doughnuts
Astro Doughnuts, Washington, DC

This is pure food decadence. The saltiness of bacon with the sweet maple glaze is a perfect balance of sweet and savory.

Tres Leches Twinkies
Del Campo, Washington, DC

The cream filled cake soaked in the sweet milk topped with toasted meringue is served with the passionfruit sorbet.

Foodie Travel In the U.S.A.

Green Gobble’n Turkey Burger
HoM, Charleston, SC

Charleston had some amazing restaurants but what impressed me the most from my trip to Charleston was the Green Gobblin Burger at HoM. It was moist and juicy. The best turkey burger I have ever eaten!

Grassfed Beef Burger
Cigar City Brewpub, Tampa, FL

Not only does Cigar City have some great beers but their brewpub has fantastic food! This grass fed burger is served with smoked bacon, sofrito, roasted garlic aioli and sweet plantains.

Roasted Cauliflower
Dominica, New Orleans

The roasted cauliflower appetizer is served with whipped feta and goat cheese. Have some of the spread with the fresh-baked bread they serve.

Beignets
Cafe Du Monde, New Orleans, LA

You can’t visit New Orleans without a stop at Cafe Du Monde. There is nothing like sitting in the cafe sipping a cafe au lait and biting into the warm, powder sugar covered fried dough.