BEACH VIBES

DC goes coastal with Millie’s in Spring Valley.

When Bo Blair isn’t busy overseeing his clutch of DC restaurants—Jetties, Surfside, Bayou, and Due South—he escapes to the island of Nantucket off Cape Cod. But it’s no vacation: While the John Kerrys and Patrick Murphys of the world unwind, Blair is still on the clock at his beachside restaurant, Millie’s. This spring, the restaurateur is bringing Massachusetts to Mass. Ave. with a permanent DC location of his beloved Nantucket spot.

“We strive to make everyone feel like they’re at the beach even if they’re stuck in DC,” says Blair. “This restaurant is modeled off our original restaurant in Nantucket, with a few updated touches.”

Washington diners can expect expertly prepared classics (think buttery lobster rolls and Baja shrimp tacos) as well as some surprises (tuna poke and squid a la plancha). Partner and chef David Scribner is overseeing the kitchen alongside Blair.

“We’re also taking some of our guys from Millie’s and moving them down here,” Blair adds. “As we describe it, this restaurant is a combination of New England and Baja coast seafood. It’s an indoor-outdoor bar and restaurant that will feel like a day at the beach!” 4866 Massachusetts Ave. NW; milliesnantucket.com