Local Dives: LA Bar & Grill

LA Bar & Grill is hidden away behind Columbia Pike and claims to be the "least douchiest bar in Arlington." Although I hesitate to use the word "dive bar" around this area, LA Bar & Grill is refreshingly unpretentious. This is one of those places that makes you want to become a regular and have the staff know you by name Cheers-style.

I visited it on a Sunday, which due to the NFL games being shown is probably a different experience than the weekdays there. There are specials and events just about every day at LA Bar, including half price burgers on Wednesday. I enjoyed their Applewood Smoked Bacon burger, with nice steak cut fries that disappeared too quickly. A mountain of onion rings can also be substituted for fries.

Looking forward to going back for Acoustic Open Mic Night on Thursdays 9pm!

Columbia Pike Blues Festival is this Saturday

This Saturday join thousands of Washingtonians for the 15th Annual Columbia Pike Blues Festival, a free, family friendly celebration of music, food and the diverse South Arlington community sponsored by the Columbia Pike Revitalization Organization. The even lasts from 1 to 8 p.m. at S. Walter Reed Drive and Columbia Pike in the heart of South Arlington, with entertainment from:

• Acclaimed Blues Guitarist Debbie Davies
• Incredible 16-year-old prodigy Jazz and Blues Pianist Matt Wigler
• Powerful blend of Mississippi Delta and Chicago Blues Danny Blew
• Award-winning D.C. band Bad Influence
• And the fantastic Moondog Medicine Show

While enjoying the free outdoor concert and supporting the diversity of Columbia Pike and its businesses, shop and eat with nearly 30 local food, craft and other exhibitors, including Car Free Diet, Pike Ride, Big Daddy’s BBQ and Rincome Thai.

Columbia Pike Blues Festival on June 19

The 15th Annual Columbia Pike Blues Festival is a free, family friendly celebration of music, food and the diverse South Arlington community. On Saturday, June 19 from 1 to 8 pm join more than 6,000 locals at the block party on S. Walter Reed Drive and Columbia Pike in the heart of South Arlington. Contact Amy McWilliams at (703) 892-2776 for volunteer opportunities.