Something for the Weekend: Sangria on an Old Town rooftop

Hotel rooftops have proven party central this summer, so we were excited to hear that Old Town would be getting its own rooftop happy hour atop the Lorien Hotel and that it would stay open well into the fall.

Hosted by Brabo, and dubbed "Toast on the Terrace," the Friday evening happy hour features a spread of Chimay, brie, goat and other cheeses; charcuterie (including prosciutto, pate and salami); and -- the happy part -- unlimited glasses of a red sangria flavored with lambic beer, Cabernet, apples, peaches and apricot.

At an all-inclusive $25, it's a great deal, but don't expect the vast space and stunning views you get at Donovan House or even the Beacon Hotel in Washington. The rooftop is small, with room for just 40, and the view is mehhh. The atmosphere at the first event last weekend felt like an awkward work party, thanks to those close quarters. And since the sangria is served at the bar by the glass, the lines for seconds and thirds were a little slow.

Organizers have pledged to add more bar service beginning this week (there's already a wait list to get in; call 703-894-5253 to reserve a spot for next week). Gonzague Muchery, general manager of Brabo, said he hoped the event would also grow to new parts of the rooftop, to perhaps include DJs and to have space for more people by spring. For now, it's best viewed as a nice deal on pre-dinner drinks and appetizers.

-- Lavanya Ramanathan