Read

Happy Hour for Writers — the last Wednesday of the month: Join Sisters in Crime Chessie Chapter, the Authors Guild, Mystery Writers of America, Northern Virginia Writer’s Club, Friends to Lovers Bookstore — and more!

Welcome to Elaine’s Writers Club: In 2026, Elaine’s Literary Salon founder, bestselling thriller novelist Jeffrey James Higgins, and PR director Hope Katz Gibbs of InkandescentPR, launched Elaine’s Writers Club. Packed with workshops, seminars, and services to help writers turn their book dreams into reality. The last Wednesday of each month, we welcome all writers to join us for Happy Hour in the bar. Join us to meet, greet, and talk shop! “It’s the best way to learn the art and craft of writing,” Jeff insists.

About Elaine’s:  A menu filled with delicious modern Mediterranean cuisine selections is sure to please everyone in your party. The dishes are based on exquisite food found in Alexandria, Egypt — a combination of Middle Eastern with French, Greek, and Italian influences. Elaine’s is named for the owner’s grandmother and is based on a promise she made at the age of 12, growing up in Cairo. “I promised my grandma I would someday own a restaurant and name it after her,” shares Cynthia, who is also an author. She and her husband, bestselling thriller novelist Jeffrey James Higgins, are proud to share my family’s recipes with new friends and families in the Washington, DC metropolitan area.” Located in an 1880s building, it was the previous home for 38 years of the beloved bistro Bilbo Baggins. The newly renovated restaurant is located in the heart of Old Town’s Historic District, within sight of the Potomac River and Founders Park, just a few blocks from The Torpedo Factory Art Center and Old Town Alexandria Waterfront. Make a reservation today: elaines-restaurant.com.