Pisco in Our Time: Peruvian Independence Deals

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PERU DECLARED independence from Spain 188 years ago Tuesday. This would seem a lot more momentous if we hadn't already celebrated what feels like a billion international independence days this month.

As it is, what with all the French champagne, Belgian beer and good old American red, white and blue food we've consumed in the past three weeks, Peruvian independence seems like overkill. But, hey, we'll take any excuse for a highbrow party in this town, especially if there's cheap alcohol involved.

But back to Peruvian independence. The pisco sour is the official drink of Peru -- and of Chile, a fact that's caused more than a few fights between the two nations. But you don't have to worry about that when you're knocking back $5 pisco sours at Poste's independence day party.

The Peruvian Embassy sponsors the shindig, which takes place on Poste's patio and carries a $5 cover charge, which will benefit Coprodeli, an organization that funds education, health care and disaster relief services in Peru. There will be a jewelry and fashion show from local salons and boutiques, along with a raffle to round out the night.

If that sounds like too much for a Tuesday, you can always head over to Inti restaurant. Located right near D.C. staple Lauriol Plaza -- but never as crowded or overpriced -- Inti features decent food and $5 cocktails from 5 to 8 p.m.

If you just want some late-night snacks that also celebrate Peru's bold emancipation, there are myriad Peruvian chicken places dotting the District that will satisfy your needs. We like El Pollo Sabroso, in Mount Pleasant, for its inexpensive, no-frills approach and its always perfectly cooked and spiced chicken. Just thinking about it makes us want to declare independence from Spain. This is one of the only late-night food spots that can get us to be unfaithful to Amsterdam Falafelshop, so you know it has to be out-of-this-world good.

» Poste Brasserie, 555 Eighth St. NW; 202-783-6060. (Gallery Place)
» Inti, 1825 18th St. NW; 202-797-0744. (Dupont Circle)
» El Pollo Sabroso, 3153 Mt. Pleasant St. NW; 202-299-0374. (Columbia Heights)

Photo by Mark Finkenstaedt for The Washington Post