A recent interior revamping and menu change from pub fare to Greek cuisine has won Nick’s Corner Grill a host of new fans. Go there to feast on the sunny flavors of the region in a warm, relaxing environment. Mezes – appetizers – include Spanikopita – spinach & feta in filo pastry, Falafel – chickpea fritters with tahini sauce, and Greek Fries with feta cheese & oregano. Move on to a tasty entrée like Lamb Shank with rice pilaf, Chicken Kebabs, Beef Shawarma, or the traditional Greek casserole, Mousakka. Gyro sandwiches with fresh cut fries and salads are also on the menu. Beer and wine are available. Open every day for lunch and dinner.

Nick's Corner Grill
42395 Ryan Road, Suite 130
Ashburn, VA 20147
(703) 327-7844
http://www.yelp.com/biz/nicks-corner-grill-ashburn

No tour of state capitals would be complete without a visit to Springfield! Illinois's capital, as you might have guessed, features lots and lots on the life of Lincoln. But there's more to see and do! Here are some top destinations if you're planning a visit:

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum
Explore the life and legacy of the man who many call America's greatest president. The museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. except on Holidays. Make sure you make a stop at Lincoln's Tomb located just a few miles away. 

Dana-Thomas House
Head over to the Dana-Thomas House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1902. Take a tour through the house to see a bowling alley, wine cellar, string quartet band lofts, beautiful stained glass, and more. Explore the 35 room house from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday to Sunday. 

D'arcy's Pint
Relax with an authentic Irish meal after a day of site seeing. The warm and cozy environment is perfect for enjoying a pint of beer and some traditional bar food. Make sure your try the "horseshoe," a Springfield classic made with Texas toast, your choice of protein (hamburger, chicken, bacon, turkey, etc.) then topped with fries and homemade cheese sauce. 

Don't stress the next time you have unexpected guests for lunch or dinner. You can put together a quick charcuterie plate, using staples you probably already have on hand. Here are some basic ingredients:

• Keep a couple different types of cured meats in the fridge. Popular meats include prosciutto, salami, soppressata, and mortadella. Just about any thin, salty, dried meat will work.
• Use a loaf of bread like ciabatta or focaccia bread. Breads that work best have a thicker crust and soft inside so they can complement the meat.
• No plate would be complete without cheese. Add two different cheeses which can be easily sliced or cubed.
• A few dips or spreads will finish off the tray. Even simple things like mustard or jam pair well with cheese, meat, and bread.
• Have some olives? Put them on the tray. Small fruits or nuts work well too!