Duke’s Counter Coming to the former Zoo Bar space

3000 Connecticut Ave, NW

Hard to tell with all that snow but the Zoo Bar has now papered over their windows – changes are coming. Stay tuned.

Update from a press release:

“The partnership group behind Dupont Circle gastropub Duke’s Grocery will open a second location, Duke’s Counter, directly across from the National Zoo at 3000 Connecticut Avenue NW. The new restaurant and bar will serve the same dishes and cocktails found at the current location, with new twists and more options. Duke’s Counter will benefit from a larger kitchen and more draught beer lines.

Fans of Duke’s Grocery who visit Duke’s Counter will recognize a robust brunch menu, active bar scene, creative sandwiches, sunny patio and of course the Proper Burger, while also looking forward to new items like fish and chips, wings, a kid’s menu and the potential for take away service. The East London-inspired menu will continue to offer seasonal salads, white truffle mac & cheese, curries and specials including Sunday Roast, lamb shanks, falafel with the works and salt beef.

“We are very excited about the new location because of the vibrant residential community and a nice mix of visitors coming to the Zoo,” said Managing Partner Daniel Kramer. “We look forward to becoming a fixture in this neighborhood as well.”

The new establishment is located in the heart of a historic community halfway between the Woodley Park and Cleveland Park Metro stations, and in front of the National Zoo. The interior will again feature exposed brick, a copper-top bar, British-themed adornments and banquette seating.

Joining the Duke’s team is Eugene Pirmatov, who will oversee front of house operations. Eugene has extensive experience in local hospitality and has been at Tosca for the last 10 years.

Duke’s Counter takes the place of the Zoo Bar Café, a beloved jazz bar and local institution which closed in late 2015. The venue thus allows for live music and other entertainment, but for now the focus is getting the place up and running. Duke’s Counter will open later this year.”