DCFoodPorn's Top Picks for Healthy Meals in the DMV

I'm SO beyond excited for today's post because my frand, Justin Schuble (aka the one and only DCFoodPorn), is talkin' all about clean eating today on SS.  He spilled the beans on 6 fab eateries in the DMV that make healthy living fun and easy.  So without further ado, I'm going to let him tell you guys all about his fave joints!

1.  Chaia specializes in vegetarian tacos, offering seasonal varieties that are packed with nutrients and flavor.  This is my go-to place when I want something healthy yet hearty.  Everything can be made vegan and gluten free!

2.  Beefsteak (right) is a fast-casual concept created by one of my favorite DC chefs, Jose Andres.  The restaurant's name is a play on words (think beefsteak tomato) and veggies take centerstage here.  I recommend building your own bowl so you can get all of your favorite vegetables and toppings.  I also suggest splurging on the avocado - it's worth it!

3.  Little Sesame (left) is a shop that sits below DGS Delicatessen in Dupont and is a great place to grab a quick, healthy lunch in the city.  The menu is simple, with just a few bowl options. Hummus is the star of the show here so if you love hummus, you'll love Little Sesame.

4.  Union Market is one of my favorite places in the city.  Located inside is DC Dosa (left), serving up dosas (Indian dish similar to a crepe), filled with veggies and topped with bold sauces.  There are a ton of gluten free and vegan options here, but you won't even notice that you're being healthy!

5.  This fast casual spot is Middle Eastern-inspired and completely vegan (but you wouldn't even know it)!  At Shouk (right), you'll find a variety of pitas, rice bowls and salads as well as a creative selection of dips like cashew labneh and beet tahini.  The Shouk burger, which can be served in a pita or a bowl, is one of the best meatless burgers I have ever tried.

6.  I don't believe food has to be fat-free, sugar-free and flavor-free to be healthy.  To me, health is about embracing natural ingredients.  Glen's Garden Market offers fresh groceries as well as a variety of sandwiches, pizzas, salads and soups that are perfect for a healthy lunch.  I usually get a cheese-less pizza loaded with vegetables for something hearty and nutritious.

Andddd that's a wrap!  Have you guys tried any of these places?  If yes, leave me a comment below! Where do you all like to get your nom on when you're looking to eat clean?  Do you have any recommendations for us?

Exploring Baltimore's American Visionary Art Museum

Pumped to tell you guys all about my latest adventure in B-more with Flow Zen.  Robby and I checked out the American Visionary Art Museum last week, and we're so glad we did!  It was a blast, and I was beyond impressed with the artwork and installations!  It was seriously one of the coolest museums I had ever been to.  Now, I hate copy and pasting, but I NEED to share this blurb with you guys - jacked from their site:

"The AVAM seeks to build upon the ancient Native American Vision Quest, and other similar self-revelatory journeys undertaken by visionaries in different times, cultures, and places.  We seek to draw attention to America's history as a mecca for forward-looking innovators, optimists, dreamers and doers - highlighting the sense that America is at her best when she actively remembers that many of her greatest citizens were very much self-taught, self-made pioneers."  Don't you just LOVE that?

Anywho, we started our adventure with a fab lunch at Encantada.  Located on the third floor of AVAM, this restaurant was truly exceptional.  Not only were their flavors out of this world, they were presented beautifully as well.  These culinary masterpieces were almost too pretty to eat! Click to see my recap in its entirety here.

After noms, Robby and I spent a good 2-3 hours exploring.  There was just SO much to see!  We started with the main building because we were already there - it housed three killer exhibits: YUMMM! The History, Fantasy, and Future of Food, Matt Sesow: Shock and Awe, and their updated permanent collection located on the 1st + 2nd floors.  I won't spoil anything for you guys, BUT I do want to share my favorite captures from the day.

Then, we walked over to the Jim Rouse Visionary Center and checked out pieces there! 

Anddd I couldn't resist sharing a snap of their shop, Sideshow!  Hands down, one of the COOLEST museum stores I've ever been to.  I seriously wanted to buy everything there - it all felt like such a throwback, and I mean that in the best way possible.  Original art, cool books, baller jewelry and accessories, you name it!  They have everything your heart could possibly desire, and the vibe reflects the spirit of the museum beautifully.

If you haven't checked out AVAM yet, you're really missing out.  Do yourself a solid and head on over stat for a fun day with friends or a SO.  They're open from 10-6 PM Tuesdays through Sundays and tickets are $15.95 per person.  If you're a student, remember to bring your ID to get a discount! Have any of you guys visited AVAM? If yes, what did you think? 

My New Custom Made Boots

Feeling all sorts of fancy in my new bandage skirt!  I picked this piece up at BCBG Factory Outlet a while back for $30, and I can't get over how cute it is.  I paired it with a graphic tee to dress things down and threw on a faux-leather moto jacket on top to add some edge.  How would you guys style this skirt?

 Other fabulous skirts I'm currently lusting for:

Sung caught me mid-twirl because he's a pro like that!

Let's take a closer look at my new boots courtesy of Two Perfect Souls.  Custom shoes are seriously the way to go - these babies are, hands down, my new favorites.  They're so beautifully made and they couldn't be more comfortable.  For those of you interested, TPS specialize in petite heels and unique 3-D jewelry.  Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions! I'm always happy to hear from you guys.

Boots:  Two Perfect Souls || Skirt:  BCBG Factory Outlet  (similar)|| Tee:  Sincerely Jules || Bag: Chanel (look for less) || Jacket:  Boohoo (similar)

Photos shot by the amazing Sung Shin.