It’s been a good run lately for our friends in Great Britain. Last year, the world turned its eyes to London for the Royal Wedding. Now, starting Friday, Britain is once again the center of attention as the nation plays host to the 2012 Summer Olympics.
Thousands of athletes from more than 200 countries will descend on the country for the games, a festival of pageantry and athletic excellence.
For those in the D.C. area who aren’t making the trip or didn’t quite qualify, a number of local bars and restaurants will be offering food and drink specials with the games running on big screens.
The Opening Ceremonies air at 7:30 p.m. on NBC.
“We’ve gotten plenty of emails and tweets from people asking what’s going on,” said Roneeka Bhagotra, a British ex-pat who along with her husband Ryan Gordon own the Queen Vic on H Street.
Starting with Friday’s opening ceremonies, the Queen Vic plans to offer food and drink specials. If you’re unsure who to root for in any given event, here’s motivation: The pub will serve $4 Newcastle on days Great Britain wins a gold medal.
Bhagotra said that there was greater buzz surrounding the nuptials between Prince William and Kate Middleton because that event was a once in a lifetime experience, but she expects good crowds for the Summer Games. Bhagotra anticipates gymnastics, swimming and soccer to be the most popular competitions to watch, adding that the Queen Vic drew big crowds for last month’s Euro Cup.
Bhagotra also pointed out that watching any athletic endeavor on television is a group activity best complimented by good food and drink.
“This is the first time we’ve been open during the Olympics,” Bhagotra said. “I think people will come out. We’re expecting quite a big crowd. We’ll see how it goes.”
Where to go
Capitol City Brewing Company, Shirlington
Cap City plans to celebrate each day of the Summer Olympics, starting with the Opening Ceremonies. The brew pub features nine televisions, and will offer Olympic themed food and drinks such as Olympic Rings Martinis (garnished with Lifesavers); London Games Martinis (garnished with a maraschino cherries); grilled brats; and more.
Info: capcitybrew.com
National Press Club
The National Press Club hosts a special dinner and viewing party on Friday for the Opening Ceremonies. In honor of the host country, dinner will be fish and chips. Dinner starts at 6:30 p.m.
Info: $20 for members, $30 for guests; press.org.
The Queen Vic
A number of food specials compliment the big draw: discounted Newcastle on days Great Britain wins a gold medal.
Info: thequeenvicdc.com.
Sign of the Whale, D.C.
Sign of the Whale’s Olympic kick-off party includes drink deals, and if you wear red, white and blue before midnight, receive a free drink.
Info: signofthewhaledc.com
Sushi Rock, Arlington
Nothing says Olympics like sushi, right? During the Opening Ceremony, Sushi Rock in Arlington will offer drink special drinks and a special sushi roll. The Team America Roll combines steak, fried onions and cheese with a side of fries; and the Team USA Cocktail mixes Southern Comfort, amaretto, cranberry and pineapple juice. Also, dress in your country’s colors, and receive a carafe of sake.
Info: sushirockdc.com.
Union Jack’s, Ballston and Bethesda
Union Jack’s, with two locations, claims itself to be the “official” British pub of the Olympics. Enjoy food and drink deals, and watch the Opening Ceremonies on the bar’s multiple screens.
