Mosaic District, Virginia

I started working at Mosaic before most stores opened! I remember watching the mall slowly come alive. I have a lot of wonderful memories there- I met Carla Hall at Capital Teas, worked for Cary Kelley at Ah Love Oil and Vinegar (now called The Cookery), had the best gelato from Dolcezza, and discovered that if done correctly, like at Artisan Confections, I actually do like bon bons. I also realized I had never truly lived until I had Red Apron’s fries cooked in beef fat with garlic and rosemary.

Also, keep reading my blog! Soon I will be announcing a giveaway. ::hint hint:: It may or may not have to do with Carla Hall’s Cooking with Love: Comfort Food that Hugs You

I moved away a few years ago, but I love to visit Mosaic District whenever I get the chance. Here’s why.

Coffee + Gelato = No Brainer!!!! And Dolcezza has the best of both worlds!

The flavors of Gelato and Sorbetto change seasonally. My favorites are Thai Coconut Milk, Butter Pecan, Mascarpone and Berries, Rye Whiskey Pecan Praline, and Tiramisu.

For coffee, they use (and sell!) Stumptown Coffee which is one of the best roasting companies. I love getting a Mocha, sitting down on a stool, and people watching!

 (photo courtesy Artisan Confections)

And then there’s chocolate. Chocolate bon bons filled with passionfruit, earl grey, coconut-rum, chai tea, and orange blossom honey! Jason and his crew make everything by hand in small batches. He uses the nice stuff, Valrhona chocolate, in all his confections!  I was lucky enough to watch the entire process as well as help out at Christmas a few years ago. It was a treat- literally! Enough talking about bon bons, go try them!!!

Who loves Olive Oil and Vinegar? Ah Love Oil and Vinegar- get it? Cary Kelly and some of her friends were having dinner and brainstorming names for her store. When this joke came up, Cary loved it and named her store that! Recently, the name has changed from Ah Love Oil and Vinegar to The Cookery. She still carries the same amazing products such as the 25 Star Dark Balsamic Vinegar but has expanded into carrying other products besides oil and vinegar. Hence, the name change. I also have to brag on Cary. I LOVE HER! She was more than a boss. She was also a friend, motivator, kick-ass business woman, and fellow foodie. On my last visit, I learned the Mosaic location is closing. However, she still has two other locations. One is in Shirlington Village; the other in DC.

Also, did I mention it’s a tasting store? Well, it is! Do yourself a favor- go check it out!

The Washington Post nailed the description of Red Apron Butchery, “A candy store for meat lovers.” Not only does Red Apron Butchery sale the most amazing selection of meats, they serve one of the best burgers and fries I have ever had. And I don’t say that lightly. So whether you are looking for a particular cut of meat or are dying to try out a burger, meatball sub, or the amazing beef fat, garlic, and rosemary fries, then visit Red Apron Butchery.