Only in America: Brewskis, Bobbleheads and 'Pope Pizza' to Greet Pontiff

When Pope Francis arrives today in Washington, D.C. for the first leg of his three-city journey in the United States, he’ll be greeted by dignified officials, fellow Catholics and adoring crowds.

What he might not see? The sideshow of assorted tchotchkes, quirky Pope-themed pizzas and religious-themed brewskis waiting to quench the thirst of the expected crowds.

Pope Francis’ visit has unleashed the American entrepreneurial spirit, and here’s a little of what you’ll find in D.C. during “Popemania” this week:

• At Ella’s Wood-Fired Pizza, at 610 9th St. NW: This week, the restaurant celebrates the Pope with a Vatican-flag inspired “Pope’s Pizza.” The pizza features marinated golden tomatoes with mozzarella and ricotta ($15). A seven-inch version will be available during happy hour between 4 and 7 p.m. for $6. You can wash down that Pope pizza with some Pope special cocktails, including what Ella’s calls the Holy Mary (Grappa Proseco infused with rosemary and tomato juice) going price is $8; try an “Ella’s Sacrament,” which features Red Wine, Cranberry juice and Drambuie for $7.
• It’s doubtful, but you might, just might, score a Pope bobblehead at the Catholic Information Center, located at 1501 K St. NW. “It’s all we can do to keep up,” the COO, Mitch Boersma, tells Washingtonian.
• At Brookland Pint, 716 Monroe St. NE, they’ll be serving up religious-themed brews all week, including
  
“Resurrection” by Brewer’s Art, “The Reverend,” by Avery, “Big Bad Baptist” by 
Epic, “Sweet Baby Jesus,” by Duclaw and “Blushing Monk” by Founders.
• Metro is getting into the act, with all new cards sold at the five Metro sales offices coming with their own protective pope sleeve (until supplies last).
• Pope emojis for your phone: The app is currently available on Google Play and “coming soon” to the App Store.
• At the gift shop of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, you’ll find a $99 7” Pope Francis in a Popemobile. It plays the Hallelujah chorus from Handel’s Messiah as Pope Francis spins to greet all who have come to see him.
  
  

PHOTOS: Popemobile, carried at the Basilica’s gift shop; for $99; “Pope’s Pizza” at Ella’s Wood-Fired Pizza; “The Revered” brew by Avery served up at Brookland Pint, and a commemorative DC Metro fare card.