“Bar Japonais will combine a stylish interior with a dynamic culinary and beverage program.”

1520 14th Street, NW

Last month we learned that Bar Japonais would be coming to the former Estadio space. Here’s the full press release with lots more info:

“The team behind Bar Chinois, including Dean Mosones, Mark Minicucci, and Margaux Donati, announced the upcoming launch of their new izakaya restaurant, Bar Japonais. The anticipated opening is scheduled for early 2024.

Bar Japonais will combine a stylish interior with a dynamic culinary and beverage program. Features will include vibrant, Japanese-inspired dishes and a French wine and cocktail menu, embodying the spirit of both cultures. As with sister concept Bar Chinois, which highlights Chinese and French influences, the aim is to once again blend two exciting, rich and timeless traditions to create a special and distinct offering. Also similar to Bar Chinois, the restaurant’s core values will revolve around energetic hospitality and intuitive service, ensuring a remarkable guest experience.

Mosones said, “We are thrilled to introduce a new and different concept to 14th Street, accompanied by our guest-centric style of hospitality. Our vision for Bar Japonais is to create an atmosphere that is as memorable as our menu. We aim to transport guests to a world where Japanese and French culinary and beverage traditions merge harmoniously, offering a truly remarkable dining experience. We want our guests to feel the same sense of familiarity they have at Bar Chinois, where we celebrate both French and Chinese cuisines.”

Mosones, Minicucci, and Donati came together to launch Bar Chinois in 2021, adding another standout restaurant to the Mount Vernon Triangle neighborhood. Bar Chinois’ accolades include being listed in the Michelin Dining Guide USA and the Washington Post Fall Dining Guide. Together, the trio embodies a passion for the industry and a dedication to community and exceptional guest experiences.

The restaurant will provide a variety of seating options, including intimate tables for dinners, sociable high tops, bar stools surrounding a central bar, freestanding and banquette tables, and a flexible semi-private space. Additionally, weather permitting, a spacious 40-seat patio will open for seasonal dining on the corner of 14th and Church Streets NW.

More details about Bar Japonais will be released in the coming months.”