DC is taking fall very literally this year. The temperatures have already dipped well into sweater-weather territory, much earlier than I recall in previous years, and I’m doing my best to get into the spirit. Getting into the spirit may simply involve buying an autumn-scented candle, a mini pumpkin and noshing on seasonal eats, but it’s working wonders so far. Speaking of those seasonal eats, Provision 14 is celebrating the new season with a delicious menu of fall-inspired dishes and drinks.
We were invited to the 14th Street restaurant last week to taste the updated menu and were immediately greeted with this luscious beverage, a seasonal slushy made with six varieties of baked apples and pears, fenugreek, freshly grated cinnamon, bourbon and applejack. I typically cannot handle bourbon in even the smallest of doses, but this concoction was impossibly palatable and I couldn’t stop sipping it.
We also tasted a Cranberry Fall Fizz with fresh cranberries, spicy ginger, lime fall spices, bourbon and blended rum that went down rather easily as well. Thanks to Provision, I may finally be a bourbon convert – at least if mixed with enough tasty fall flavors.
Chef de Cuisine Jacob Williams has created a beautiful collection of food that is as lovely to look at as it is to eat.

Chesapeake hush puppies with Maryland lump crab, sweet potato puree, charred onion soubise and chipotle aioli

Thick cut onion rings with gruyere and sriracha aioli

Lamb neck hot pocket with arugula aioli

Sticky buns with pulled chicken, pepper jack, brown sugar and mustard glaze

Salmon risotto with toasted pumpkin seeds and baby kale

Braised lamb neck served over a bed of mashed potatoes and smoked cabbage

Fried apples with cinnamon and nutmeg
The twists on every day comfort food were some of my favorite bites. The sticky bun chicken sandwich is the kind of thing Tom’s dreams are made of, while I reveled in the not-too-sweet fried apple dessert. If you’re minding your waistline, the salmon with pumpkin risotto is light but still warming. Not to mention, the ability to eat a hot pocket and drink a slushy while still totally adulting should never be taken for granted.
Now’s the time to take a break from the pumpkin-spiced lattes, throw on your best flannel and head to Provision 14 for a true fall-lover’s feast.
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