There seem to be a remarkable number of businesses near Farragut North with serious design issues with their storefronts. But on the upside, that area's also got some of the best selections of street-vendor flowers I've ever found downtown? There's one guy there that I go looking for when I'm in the mood to splurge on some cheap dendrobiums...

As for cupcakes, well, if you're making a trip to U Street to go shop at Hana sometime, drop in to CakeLove. And detour a bit towards Logan Circle to visit ACKC if you're in the mood for a little decadent chocolate.