Erik Bruner-Yang opening a cafe in Navy Yard, opening “end of the summer 2019”

2 I Street, SE. Photo of coming cafe space courtesy Foreign National

From an email:

“RCP Development and Crescent Communities co-developed Novel South Capitol, Southeast DC’s newest community anchor and stylish residences, is partnering with restaurateur Erik Bruner-Yang, a multi-James Beard nominee, and Founder of Foreign National, a Washington DC-based concept development company, to open an original 3,000 square foot day-to-night neighborhood cafe concept that will serve as Novel South Capitol’s ground-floor retail and unique community gathering and dining experience for the whole neighborhood to enjoy.

Standing out from the other exclusive and private luxury residential offerings in DC, Novel differentiates itself through an inclusive neighborhood “third place” philosophy. The new neighborhood cafe will be integrated with Novel South Capitol’s lobby area and create a vibrant retail pillar, in addition to a drive-in courtyard and public-private shared coworking space, that will anchor the active Southeast streetscape directly down from the ballpark and waterfront.

“With Novel South Capitol we not only wanted to create an incredible residential offering, but create a place where the larger community feels welcome,” said Steve Etminani, Principal of RCP Development. “Partnering with Erik, one of D.C.’s most inventive chefs, to introduce his new, neighborhood-oriented cafe concept on the corner allows us to reach that goal of housing a true gathering space for the neighborhood.

Expanding on his footprint of Asian-infused and multi-cultural foodie destinations, including Brothers and Sisters and Spoken English at The LINE DC, and Maketto, Bruner-Yang’s new concept will include breakfast-oriented offerings, evening snacks and craft cocktails to serve as a gathering destination for residents, neighbors and visitors. It is expected to open at the end of summer 2019.”