Plus, where you can play haunted mini golf.
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Today’s Forecast

62º | 20% chance of precipitation

Sunrise 7:16 a.m. | Sunset 6:32 p.m.

High tide 2:16 p.m. | Low tides 8:38 a.m. + 8:33 p.m.


A brunch dish from Ruthie's All-Day.
Brunch at Ruthie’s All-Day is not to be missed. | Photo by Rey Lopez
Departing Washington Post food critic Tom Sietsema recently released his annual list of the top 40 restaurants in the DMV. Here is a breakdown of the nine restaurants located in NOVA.

Ruthie’s All-Day | Arlington
This local spot is truly a cozy, community hangout for locals. It’s giving elevated local diner. The cozy vibe is also in the food — Southern-inspired dishes that feel like grandma made them (if your grandma was a reallyyyyy good cook). Start with Harry’s Hot Hushpuppies made with shrimp and jalapenos. Then, I recommend the smoked pulled pork shoulder because… I mean, come on.

Sorn Thai | McLean
Last, but certainly not least, this Thai restaurant is a standout among the NOVA dining spots we’ve highlighted. I’m a sucker for a good Pad Thai, and you’ll find an excellent version here. If you’re a fan of spicy flavors, don’t miss the Kua Gling: a southern Thai curry made with chicken that packs a punch.
7 more to try

JBG SMITH

Events

Monday, Oct. 13

Intermediate Sewing: Soup Bowl Cozy | 1-2:30 p.m. | Central Library, Arlington | Free

Tuesday, Oct. 14

Just a Walk: A Free Peek at Meadowlark | 10:15-11:15 a.m. | Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, Vienna | Free

Wednesday, Oct. 15

Friends Of Oakton Library Book Sale | Wednesday, Oct. 15-Saturday, Oct. 18 | Times vary | Oakton Library, Oakton | Price of purchase

Friday, Oct. 17

Hiss Golden Messenger | 7:30 p.m. | The Barns at Wolf Trap, Vienna | $43+

Saturday, Oct. 18

Fall Harvest Family Days | Saturday, Oct. 18-Sunday, Oct. 19 | 9 a.m.-5 p.m. | Mount Vernon, Mount Vernon | $0+

Bull Run Fall Wine Festival | Saturday, Oct. 18-Sunday, Oct. 19 | 12-5 p.m. | The Winery at Bull Run, Centreville | $55+
See our full events calendar
Feature your event here, or make a bigger splash

News Notes

Development

The Goodwill on Glebe Road, one of the busiest donation centers in the country, is about to undergo a major transformation. After it closes on Sunday, Oct. 26, construction will begin on a project that includes affordable housing and a childcare center. See the dramatic change.

Mansion Monday

I can’t quite explain why, but if Halloween is your favorite holiday, I have a feeling you’ll love this house. I already see the front steps adorned with pumpkins. This newly built home in McLean blends modern design with barn-inspired touches that give it a warm, inviting feel.

Coming Soon

The Ashburn Village Shopping Center is getting a new bagel shop. Torus Bagels plans to take over what is currently a Jimmy John’s sandwich shop. Stay tuned for updates on the timing of this change. (The Burn)

Seasonal

Looking for Halloween fun around Alexandria? This guide highlights festive events like trick-or-treating, Halloween drag bingo, and a spooky bike ride. (ALXnow)

State

Looking for a pizza the action? The Food Network’s foodie experts rounded up their favorite slices in all 50 states, and Wiseguy Pizza came out on top for Virginia. It’s common knowledge that one slice isn’t enough — fortunately we’ve got plenty of great pizzerias in town.

The Word

Noctourism. That’s the name of one of this year’s hottest travel trends, in which people soak in experiences after dark. Think: stargazing, night markets, dinner cruises. Given that it’s October, a local ghost tour is the perfect way to join the fun. (The Traveler)

Eat

Ever woken up craving papusa? You’re not alone. It’s the most-searched breakfast food in Virginia, according to a new Mental Floss report. Food for thought: Instead of scouring search engines for your next meal, explore our guide to the best brunch eats in NOVA.

Health

Sweet treats are officially good for you. Finally. Experts say the excitement of an inbound treat can help release dopamine, a neurotransmitter that contributes to focus, cognitive function, and feelings of joy. Sounds like the perfect excuse to get some ice cream in NOVA. (The Guardian)

Jobs

Tired of wading through resumes from applicants that are states away? Ditch oversaturated national job boards for our locally focused Job Board. Get started at no cost — post unlimited job listings for free.

Number

1 million+. That’s how many men use Particle Face Cream, a six-in-one formula that tackles eye bags, wrinkles, and puffiness. Save 20% with code 6AM20.*
6AM City SSAP

Post of the Day

An Instagram post about Haunted Mini Golf in Fairfax.

Photo via @fairfaxparks

Dress up in your costume and head to Oakmont Rec Center for a round of mini golf, trick or treating, and prizes at different holes. Sign up here for sessions starting at 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 24 + Saturday, Oct. 25.
Want to be featured?

The Buy

A set of non-slip stair carpet treads. We love that they feature a peel off backing for easy installation and no leftover residue. Bonus: They’re ultra-soft, durable, and easy to clean.
More worth The Buy

Games

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The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
Let the games begin

Answered

How many states have selected a female governor?

This question was a tricky one. 62.5% of you selected 21, but the correct answer is 32, which only about 34% of you selected.

Has Virginia ever selected a female governor?

While not all of you opted to answer this question (only 42 out of 64), 95% of those who did answered correctly. Virginia has not previously elected a female governor.
Try another quiz

The Wrap

Y’all seem to really love our Mansion Monday segment, so I wanted to throw in a bonus one today. Check out this $1.6 million midcentury-modern home, originally built in 1956, in Falls Church. I’m obsessed with the covered patio.
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