Peek Inside the new ESL Shaw (former Eighteenth Street Lounge) opening Friday (to the public, Sat. Sept. 10, 2022 at 2pm)

photos by Nancy Anderson courtesy ESL Shaw

From a press release:

“The District welcomes a new neighbor on Friday in a business that can be considered an old friend, ESL Shaw (1230 9th Street, NW). The two-level entertainment venue will feature a range of programming, from DJ-centric events, to an elevated beverage program and new weekend daytime activities. Spearheaded by the ownership entity behind the former Eighteenth Street Lounge, and with oversight from operations head Jordan Naber, ESL Shaw will also offer a light fare menu.

photo by Nancy Anderson

“We have taken an intentional approach to involving creative professionals, especially women, in the new identity of ESL Shaw,” remarked owner Farid Nouri. “From the local art to the architecture, the aesthetic and spirit of the new venue integrate thoughtful aspects that our guests and neighbors will really enjoy.”

photo by Nancy Anderson

Guests of the new ESL Shaw can expect to find a significant portion of the current venue’s interior design reflective of elements that patrons came to love about the former Dupont Circle location, which closed in 2020 during its twenty-fifth year of operation. Architecture firm Citadel led the build out of the new space and worked closely with Nouri to ensure that new features, such as the reclaimed wood from nearby forests and farms that lines the bar tops, would also differentiate the current space. Nouri also brought in local art directors to cultivate street art and Art Nouveau murals that adorn the rustic internal and external spaces of ESL Shaw.

photo by Nancy Anderson

Guests can expect to experience an urban garden concept in the venue’s elevated outdoor patio space, designed by Vespertine Workshop. The patio, in addition to the two floors of the interior, will be equipped with a full-service bar. ESL Shaw’s leadership plans to ensure an intimate feel that emphasizes eclectic experiences for a range of guests – any given week may include live music, daily happy hours, Tango dance lessons, and art-focused events.

photo by Nancy Anderson

“It remains important to us that we continue to cater to a diverse audience across the District and the greater Washington metropolitan area, as well as give back to our local community that has supported us for over 25 years,” said Nouri. He plans to continue the venue’s contributions to local charities, including Ward 2 Mutual Aid and N Street Village.

photo by Nancy Anderson

About ESL Shaw

ESL Shaw, a differentiated entertainment venue with deep roots in Washington, creates unique experiences for lovers of music. Developed by the same ownership entity of the former Eighteenth Street Lounge, ESL Shaw elevates diverse styles of music from all over the world and features a range of programming that includes wellness and community-focused events. The two-level space boasts a designed outdoor patio space, distinctive wine program and well-crafted light fare menu. From integration of art installations to bespoke architectural oversight, ESL Shaw’s leadership entrusted women to lead the day-to-day operations. The original Eighteenth Street Lounge was established by a multi-owner entity in 1995, and during its 25-year tenure Farid Nouri gradually assumed sole ownership up to when the previous location closed in 2020.”