Nina May
5-Course Contemporary Chesapeake Tasting Event
Opened in 2019, this Logan Circle eatery has firmly established itself on the city’s food scene, with a berth on such lists as Washingtonian’s “100 Best Restaurants in DC” List (2023) and Thrillist’s “Best in DC” List (2022). Nina May is the brainchild of co-owner Colin McClimans (who also serves as Chef) and restaurateur Danilo Simic, who set out to create an authentic neighborhood restaurant. (On a heartwarming note, they named the joint after their respective daughters.) Previously Chef McClimans, a native Washingtonian, served as Chef de Cuisine of Equinox Restaurant for over six years - and, after also helping owner Todd Gray open multiple large projects, including Salamander Resort, Manna, Milk + Honey, and a dedicated restaurant in the Museum of the Bible, he was more than ready to begin Nina May. In fact, in 2015, Chef McClimans was named to Zagat’s "30 under 30" List for his work in the industry. Now, at Nina May, he is offering an ever-changing menu of seasonal and hyperlocal ingredients sourced from farms within 150 miles of the city. Diners relish such dishes as lamb belly schnitzel, house smoked beef pastrami, and pan-roasted Maryland rockfish filet. We’re looking forward to our visit and to hearing once again from Chef McClimans about his food ideas… and lacrosse (he was a college champion!)
About the Host:

Colin McClimans
Chef/Owner
Native Washingtonian Chef Colin McClimans has cooked in restaurant kitchens since he was 14 years old. The former Chef de Cuisine of Equinox Restaurant, he has helped Chef Todd Gray (a 5 time James Beard Award Nominee for "Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic") open multiple large projects including Salamander Resort, Manna, and Milk + Honey. In 2015, he was also named one of Zagat’s "30 under 30."
The Lineup
Courses #1 - #4 will be served family style. Course #5 will be individually plated.
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Salad of Virgina Country Ham
grilled peach, corn succotash, pickled jalapeño, arugula
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Maryland Blue Crab & Scallop Stuffed Squash Blossom
béarnaise, herb salad, tarragon oil
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Smoked Eggplant & Tomato Lasagna
provolone cheese, basil pesto, garlic crumble
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Crusted Pastrami Prime Rib
au poivre, onion rings, chard broccoli
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Blueberry Cheesecake
pickled blueberry, almond clusters, 18 month aged comte
Nina May
1337 11th St NW
Washington, DC 20001
Event FAQs
- Do I have to bring printed tickets to the event?
- No tickets are needed.
- What does the ticket price cover?
- The ticket price covers the full cost of the meal.
- What dietary restrictions/food allergies can be accommodated at this event?
- At this event the chef will provide substitutions for critical food allergies/dietary restrictions but will not make menu adjustments based on food preferences (e.g distaste for specific ingredients/flavor profiles). If you have restrictions/allergies, please make sure to Update Your Dietary Restrictions within your Account Info before or after you purchase tickets, or email us at [email protected] after you purchase tickets to let us know.
- Do guests need to be of a certain age to attend this event?
- Yes. All attendees must be 21+ to gain entry.
- Does this restaurant allow BYOB?
- No. This restaurant is a non-BYO establishment. Outside alcohol will not be permitted at this event.
- What is the event ticket cancellation/refund policy?
- Restaurants purchase the food for our events 14 days before the event date, at which point we are on the hook for the cost of your ticket. As such, we are not able to offer refunds (or credits towards future events) for any cancellation requests submitted within 14 days of the event date. We will, however, issue full refunds for all cancellation requests submitted at least 14 days before the event date. All cancellation requests must be submitted via email to [email protected].
- Can I bring guests who are not members to this event?
- Yep! Members are able to purchase up to 3 guest tickets to this event (based on availability). However, guest tickets are $20 more than member tickets ($85 + tax/tip), and guests will not be allowed entry to the event unless they're accompanied by a member.
- What must I bring to the event?
- Please make sure to bring a government-issued photo ID.
- Will this event be handicap acccessible?
- According to the restaurant, this event is handicap accessible. If applicable however, please email [email protected] with your needs to ensure proper accommodations.
- What parking information has the restaurant provided for this event?
- According to the restaurant, there is a nearby parking garage and/or lot, as well as street parking available. Parking is not validated.