Since the early 18th century, Mardi Gras in New Orleans has evolved into one of the the biggest celebrations in the US. It’s steeped in rich traditions that many of us know little about. With this Tuesday being the big day, we thought we’d unmask (haha) a few of the most popular ones. Reston may be miles away from New Orleans,…

Recently, shrubs have been gaining in popularity with bartenders across the country. Shrubs are fruit-based, similar to tonics, but preserved with vinegar. They are then mixed with soda water or alcohol to make a tangy, refreshing drink. Because of the acidity, shrubs are perfect as an apéritif or used as an alternative to bitters in cocktails.

One of my favorite things about living in Northern Virginia is enjoying a bottle and the scenery at one of our many local wineries. Like many of us, though, I tend to associate a winery outing with a sunny summer afternoon and a picnic basket. Then February comes along. Winter really takes the fun out of a hillside game…

If you’re anything like me, you’d rather stay home on Valentine’s Day and cook a nice dinner-for-two instead of shelling out big bucks for a prix-fix meal somewhere. But Valentine’s Day isn’t some random “chicken breast and side salad” kind of night. It’s a time for romance, it’s a time for heat — it’s time for business, people. To help us spice…

I asked my husband, Mike, to describe what the water felt like when he did Freezin’ for a Reason. I should probably pretend that he said something like, “It felt like a refreshing dip in an invigorating pool.” I’ll be honest. His response was,”It was like getting hit by a bus.” But Mike was laughing as he described it,…

Come on, people, you can do better. You can look beyond the pre-made, mundane bouquets at the grocery store. You can (you WILL!) surprise your beloved this year with something outrageously unique, something one-of-a-kind, something show-stopping! Ok, now then… you probably need help. Not to worry, Modern Reston has you covered. For gorgeous bouquet alternatives, we turned to one of our…

Looking for a place to watch the Super Bowl this Sunday, February 1st? We have several ideas for you. Reston’s newest restaurant, Glory Days Grill, opened this week. It’s a sports bar with 40 TVs, and each booth has its own speaker with volume control. They serve a broad menu of appetizers, burgers, tacos, steaks, pizza,…

Super Bowl is usually a time for hamburgers, ribs, sausages and chicken wings but what about the vegetarians walking amongst us? They need to eat too! That’s why we wanted to offer an alternative that’s high on flavor and low on meat (and gluten free!). Say hello to Buffalo Cauliflower!

Buffalo Wings are the quintessential Super Bowl Snack. You can get them at numerous locations around town but which restaurant has the best? Vote in our reader poll now through Super Bowl Sunday, when we will announce the winner of our “Wing Bowl!” And remember, all of these fine and delicious establishments will be happy to cater your Super…