“The Bird is closing January 21 and will be replaced with Frenchy’s Naturel opening January 31.”

1337 11th Street, NW at O Street

From a press release:

“EatWell DC is excited to announce the grand opening of Frenchy’s Naturel: Steak, Eggs & Wine, its newest dining experience on the corner of 11th and O NW on January 31st. The restaurant, formerly The Bird, is about to undergo an extensive transformation into a cozy neighborhood “boîte,” featuring casual & creative French cuisine.

[Check out their menu here.]

The concept and aesthetic for Frenchy’s Naturel is inspired by a modern French bistro with a focus on natural products. The menu boasts “beef first and along with poultry, seafood, eggs, and fresh produce,” says Principal Owner, David Winer.

All entrees will be served with a small salad and a choice of three sauces as an accompaniment as well as the option of unlimited fries. “We like the concept,” says Winer, “we love being able to offer a complete meal and the notion of providing more fries if you’re still hungry. It’s just a neighborhood-friendly concept, which is what we do best.”

The Bird, which opened 2 years ago, will close at the end of the day on January 21st. For the many fans, Restaurant Week, January 14th-20th will be the last hurrah for regular service throughout the week. The Bird will serve MLK Day Monday brunch and on the evening of January 21st, will offer a 50% off “going out of business” sale, where all food and drink will be half off.

After a 10-day refresh, Frenchy’s Naturel will move into The Bird’s space of approximately 3200 square feet. The downstairs bar area will feature added high tops, while the upstairs and roof terrace will serve as the main dining areas. The upstairs “Rose Bar” will feature mixology classes and wine tastings presented by EatWell DC Mixologist, Ben Bronstein. The expansive sidewalk cafe will resume service in the spring. Full dinner and cocktail menus will be available in all spaces, like its predecessor, The Bird. Frenchy’s beverage program will host an extensive selection of natural wines, beers, and ciders curated by Operating Partner, Heran Mane. “This is an exciting time in the natural movement and though challenging, we look forward to introducing DC to some new tastes,” says Mane. There will also be a focus on French spirits and classic French cocktails. Frenchy’s will maintain The Bird’s incredibly popular brunch with all the fan favorites, including Chicken and Waffles and Fried Chicken Benedict but will also add items like Croque Madame and Steak and Eggs.

“L’experience des Frenchy’s,” takes the dinner menu spotlight, consisting of Virginia Devon sirloin steak, green salad, french fries and served with bérnaise, balsamic-anchovy steak sauce, and sauce vert. Executive Chef Eric McKamey who recently joined the EatWell DC Group after stints at Momofuku, DGS Delicatessen, and Mintwood Place, exercises his strong French background with additional menu items like Steak Tartare, Mussels Marinières, Alsatian Spaetzle Gratin, and Chocolate Pot de Creme.”