1545 New Jersey Ave, NW
UPDATE: “1. Soft Opening Period: Monday August 17 – Wednesday September 2nd 8am-3pm
2. Normal Hours: September 3rd-onward, 7am-5pm”
“Proper Café
Coffee ☕️ • Cuisine 🍳 • Community 🫱🏼🫲🏾
1545 New Jersey Ave NW Washington, DC 20001”
Thanks to A. and L. for sending from what “was previously the Great American Bistro and the Oasis.”
“I’ve been watching with great interest the renovation at 1545 NJ Ave on the Proper Cafe, but am wondering if there’s any timeline for opening?”
1545 New Jersey Ave, NW
On July 24th they wrote:
“The vision is finally starting to look real. ☕️ Countless early mornings. More risk than I can explain. And a dream that’s been years in the making. Proper Café is almost here! DC, we’re coming. 🤎”
Only July 22nd Marcus Goodwin wrote:
“While most of my career has been focused on real estate, today I’m building something much more personal.
This is, without question, the biggest leap of faith I’ve ever taken. I’ve invested every ounce of belief (and capital) I have into a vision for what DC needs.
Growing up in DC my parents ran a restaurant. Looking back, I realize he wasn’t just serving food—they were creating a place where people felt known. Where neighbors became friends. Where community was built one table at a time. That lesson stays with me.
Real estate taught me how to build spaces. Life taught me that spaces only matter because of how they serve the people’s needs.
For years, I’ve dreamed about creating a place that brings those ideas together. That’s the promise of Proper Café.
It’s not just another cafe / restaurant. It’s a place built for community.
To everyone who’s encouraged me, challenged me, and supported this dream—thank you. I couldn’t have made it here without you.”
Stay tuned.