We've all seen them across the city, proudly displayed on take-out counters, storefront windows, or for the more outdated accolades - bathroom walls (it's time to let go of being the best of anything in 2006, just saying), Washington City Paper's Best of DC awards. This weeks issue is an impressive 192 pages dedicated to 2014's winners, and last night saw many of the food and beverage picks serve up at the annual fete at the Carnegie Library in Mt. Vernon Square, which has become one of DC's more eclectic events on the calendar.

Attending an event with dozens of food and drink offerings has become an art form, upon entering it's best to grab a drink first as it'll help you battle the crowds, which last night happened to be a small batch bourbon with peach & cinnamon reduction, mint tea & grape fruit bitters from Jack Rose. Thirst quenched I start to circle the room to see what foods I fancy, I try to avoid dishes that require a utensil - the balancing act of holding a small plate and cocktail is a little less than dignifying, there are never enough cocktail tables at these soirees which is why anything served on a aperitif spoon I'll go to first, here's looking at you Zengo with your bay scallop ceviche, thai chile and avocado, I apologize for eating more than my fair share.

With awards including Best Place for the Obamas' Next Date Night to Best Macaron... Use of Bacon... Cupcake... You get the picture, there are quite a few, 85 readers awards in total with an additional 29 staff picks (that's just for food and drink), I've jotted down a few of the more notable readers choice winners below, but you can find the full list over at WCP here.

Congrats to...

Chef: Jose Andres

Restaurant: Mate Lounge (I had to Google this one too)

New Restaurant: Rose's Luxury

Bar: Boundary Stone

New Bar: Right Proper Brewing Company

Local Brewery: DC Brau

Mixologist: Michelle Hudson of Butterfly Mixtures

Food Blog: Bitches Who Brunch (Congrats, Bitches!)