“Dear PoP,

I’ve noticed a new store front across from the new condo’s above the metro. Its next to the fried chicken place. I think the sign said Envy Nail and Spa? Manicure’s probably aren’t your thing, but do you know anything about it?”

Hahaha. Yeah, not exactly my thing but I mentioned this spot briefly back in August. All I know is that it should be opening up very soon at 3501 Georgia Ave., NW. But from a number of emails that I’ve received some folks are pretty happy about finding a good manicure and pedicure spot. If anyone goes be sure to email me your experience and I’ll be happy to post.


“Dear PoP,

I am in a band that practices in Arlington, but we are desperately looking for a practice space in the district that would let us leave our gear (safely!) and come and go at any hour to practice/record.  I recently read an article about Gold Leaf studios in chinatown, but we haven’t been able to get in contact with the landlord.  This is the first practice space that we have come across (we have been looking for weeks!).”

Anyone familiar with Gold Leaf Studios?  Anyone have any other recommendations for band practice spaces?


Thanks to all the readers who sent me word about Samber Market’s new signage on Mt. Pleasant Street, NW. The new signs look great. Any fans of this market? How’s the beer and wine selection?

I’ve also been meaning to post the below classic sign from Georgia Ave. up in the 3 syllable streets:


A reader sent in the photo above from 15th and Irving taken in Feb. 2004. It’s now Capitol City Charter School and looks great:

These photos always boggle my mind. Feb. 2004 was not that long ago. I really do appreciate all the positive change that has occurred. Sadly, sometimes it’s easy to forget.


“Dear PoP,

Passed by this Uncle Sam panhandling for 12 trillion in Dupont on my way to work.  Pamphlet he’s handing has all sorts of stats on the deficit-www.defeatthedebt.com.  Said there are a bunch of Uncle Sams all over DC today.”

Anyone else see some “homeless” Uncle Sams around town?


This condo is located at 1830 18th Street, NW:


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The flier says:

“Stunning new boutique condo building with perfect Dupont location! Luxury multi-level residence offers reclaimed H/W floors thu/out, granite counters, stainless steel appliances, private roof deck with adjacent wet bar and much more! Walk to Metro, shops, favorite restaurants, Parking avail. Nov 2009 settlements; Currently taking reservations for purchase agreements.”

More info and photos found here.

I always like to post the condos for new buildings that have been constructed or renovated. Incidentally what area do you consider this – Dupont or Adams Morgan? For some reason I associate it more with Adams Morgan. Anyway, what do you think of the condo itself? Does $847,900 sound reasonable for this 2 bed/3 bath?

Ed. Note: While house porn will remain on Wed. I’ll be sure to post more modest homes/condos at least every Thursday.


Los Hermanos is located at 1430 Park Road, NW. I had never noticed this spot before either but it’s not a new restaurant simply a new sign. I walked inside and was surprised how big the space is. Very deceiving from the outside. It’s a great space that smelled delicious. The folks were really friendly and there was a heated game of dominoes going on. All around a great vibe. So how’s the food!?!?


Ojo Latino is a series by Néstor Sánchez Cordero. This week features the fountain in the middle of Dupont Circle. Néstor says, “Images are around, the secret is to catch them at the right moment and with the right light…

Two more black and white photos after the jump. (more…)


“Dear PoP,

I live out in northeast around 6th and L, NE and last night from about 3:15 until about 3:30 there was a chopper circling so low to the ground it woke me out of a deep anti histamine induced sleep and shook my whole house. I’m wondering if you or any of your readers had heard any news stories or anything about what may hav been happening.”

Any folks from the 6th and L, NE area know what’s up?


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