The Van Ness neighborhood might not have much in the way of restaurants or bars compared with the Cleveland and Woodley Park areas up the street, but it does have one ringer: the C&W.
The C&W is this magical little store with the simply best wine, cheese, coffee, and liquor selection in the city with more than 3,000 different types of wins and spirits.
Don't want to break the bank? No problem. The store is constantly running specials and sales, and has an excellent selection of quality wines for under $10.
The best part is, the staff is extremely well educated and helpful. If you don't know what kind of wine you need, all you have to do is ask. Staff will ask you what you're serving it with and a price point, and provide you with an excellent recommendation. I've never been steered wrong.
Same goes with cheese selection. The staff will ask you some basic questions to figure out your taste, and then give you oodles of samples to try. Pick your favorite and off you go.
Carry-out service is also provided free of charge for those who need help to their car.
Pros: Fantastic selection, helpful service
Cons: Limited parking, can get crowded
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