Malaysian-inspired Sports + Cocktail Bar Thirsty Crow reopens in Columbia Heights

lower level 11th and Park Road, NW (RIP Meridian Pint) photo by Emily Hoang

Check out the menu here: Thirsty Crow Reopening Menu 2021 (PDF)

From a press release:

“The highly anticipated grand reopening of popular Malaysian-inspired sports and cocktail bar Thirsty Crow from the dynamic team behind creative and critically-acclaimed Malaysian restaurant Makan, reopened in Columbia Heights.

Featuring 2,000 square feet, and seating for about 100 – 21 seats at the bar, 24 seats in the cocktail lounge, and about 55 in the main bar area – the funky and vibrant space reopens to the public featuring a complete design refresh including multiple large-scale neon graffiti murals from notable artist Fuck Luxury. The colorful space also features two pool tables, which are free for guests to play on – first come first served, and 14 flat-screen TV’s are set to showcase a variety of sports including NFL Sunday Ticket, NBA League Pass, MLB Extra Innings, NHL Center Ice Packages, Premier League, and other high-profile soccer leagues and matches around the world.

photo by Emily Hoang

The team at Thirsty Crow is led by powerhouse hospitality veterans including Executive Chef + Owner James Wozniuk and Business Partner Lukas Umana. Suzanne Critchlow, the Beverage Director for Thirsty Crow and Makan, and design consultant Victoria Garcia, collaborated on the complete redesign of the space, which is located directly underneath culinary sibling Makan. The duo drew inspiration from Malaysia – a beautiful and diverse country known for its rich and vibrant colors, stunning landscapes, eclectic street art, buzzing street markets, and of course, a seemingly endless variety of delicious and flavorful food. The décor and design reflect and represent each of these elements. Textures throughout the space include red metal, concrete, rattan, paper lanterns, graffiti, and bright colors.

“We created a menu for Thirsty Crow that would compliment the drinks, while tantalizing taste buds with the unique diversity and complexity of Malaysian cuisine”, said Executive Chef + Owner James Wozniuk. “From curry leaf, to anchovies, and sambals – these are just a few of the ingredients we’re excited to lure guests in with.”

Cocktails at Thirsty Crow all feature a touch of Malaysian flavors and were crafted to complement the creative dishes offered on the menu. Thirsty Crow’s vesper riff, The Paditini is served ice cold straight out of the freezer. The Cendol Swizzle is inspired by a popular southeast Asian dessert. Batavia arrack, lime, and apricot liquor are combined with crushed ice and topped with pandan jellies. And guests can never go wrong by imbibing in the classic Malaysian cocktail, the Jungle Bird, where Campari meets molasses-based rum and pineapple creating a bitter and tropical refreshment.

“We really want to offer something for everyone at Thirsty Crow” said Suzanne Critchlow, Beverage Director for Thirsty Crow and Makan. “Stop by for dinner, grab a beer, and watch a game. Bring a date for fancy cocktails. Or grab some friends for a game of pool.”

Thirsty Crow will be open Monday-Thursday 5pm-midnight, Friday 5pm-2am, Saturday 11am-2am, and Sunday 11am-midnight. Thirsty Crow will also be available for buyouts and other private events. Thirsty Crow will also be launching reservations in the coming weeks.”