Phase One of The Square Food Hall Opens Tuesday!! (Sept. 5)

photo by Scott Suchman

From a press release:

“The Square, a chef-driven food market destination where cuisine, culture, and community are woven together, is thrilled to announce that it will officially open to the public on Tuesday, September 5. For this first phase, six stalls, and the central 42-seat Atrium Bar will welcome guests.

photo by Scott Suchman

Created by Richie Brandenburg, best known as the creator of Union Market, Rubén García, the former longtime creative director of José Andrés Group, and Tishman Speyer, The Square represents the next generation of food halls and features an evolutionary business model––focused on increased efficiencies, a shared revenue model between The Square and its chef partners, and economies of scale.

The backbone of The Square is a state-of-the-art, subterranean commissary kitchen featuring a communal bakery, butchery, prep kitchens, central ordering system, and liquor purchasing power.

photo by Scott Suchman

“Our goal was two-fold: to create a best-in-class hospitality offering with delicious foods for our guests, and behind the scenes, create the strong, complex infrastructure needed to nurture both young chefs and seasoned professionals, startups, and innovation within our industry.” says co-creator Richie Brandenburg. “We hope to build off of our previous experience but create something unique that can stand on its own.”

“Ruben and Richie have worked tirelessly to curate a world-class culinary destination animated by an incredible collection of talent. Our partnership brings together both the best of D.C. and global cuisine, and we are thrilled to welcome the community in,” says Paul DeMartini, Senior Managing Director, Tishman Speyer.

The 25,000-square-foot space is located within International Square (1850 K Street NW), a 1.1 million square-foot complex occupying nearly a full city block in downtown Washington, D.C, surrounded by some of the city’s most dynamic neighborhoods including Dupont, Foggy Bottom, Georgetown—and is a mere two blocks from the White House.

This first phase encapsulates a diverse selection of original concepts from celebrated local chefs and business owners, and includes:

Cashion’s Rendezvous – Oysters, crab cakes, and strong drinks. The Cashion’s Eat Place and Johnny’s Half-Shell legacy lives on in Ann Cashion and John Fulchino’s latest venture.

Jamón Jamón – Hand-cut jamón Iberico, cheeses, croquetas, and charcuterie. Experience iconic Spanish ingredients sourced by García.

Brasa – Grilled sausages and veggies, pan con tomate — and allioli, of course. Chef Rubén García offers Spanish street-food hot off the open-flame.

Taqueria Xochi – The brainchild of José Andrés Group vets Teresa Padilla and Geraldine Mendoza, Taqueria Xochi––named after the ruins of Xochitecatl in Central Mexico––will serve authentic dishes such as birria, tacos guisados, and street tacos, alongside margaritas and palomas.

Yaocho – Fried chicken, deep-sea snapper, superfood juices, sweets, and libations. Bidwell chef John Mooney brings Polynesian flavors to the mainland.

Junge’s – Churros and soft serve, sweet and simple. Street food treats inspired by the heritage of The Square visionaries Brandenburg and García.

Atrium Bar – The Square’s central watering hole for good pours and high spirits, Atrium Bar will be serving up cocktails, wine, and beer curated by Beverage Director Owen Thompson.

Slated for fall 2023, the next round of openings include Flora Pizzeria (from Tom Wellings and Camila Arango), Cebicheria Chalaca (from Carlos Delgado), KIYOMI Sushi by Uchi (from Masaaki Uchino), Shoals Market (The Square’s retail hub), and more. Additionally, chef Rubén García’s highly anticipated Spanish restaurant, Casa Teresa, will soon open next door to The Square at 919 19th Street NW.

To start, The Square will open Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Square plans to open on weekends and extend hours to offer dinner service in the coming months. Additionally, outdoor dining will be available beginning opening day.

All Stalls, Lunch: Mon – Fri, 11-3 pm
Atrium Bar: Tues – Thurs, 4-8 pm
Dinner service debuting later this fall”

1850 K Street, NW