From an email:

Monday Nov 7 starting at 6 pm.
Rob Tod, founder of Allagash Brewing is coming to to Jack Rose [2007 18th St, NW] to share some of his beers and all of his knowledge.

There is no cover charge and we will be selling full oz and 4 oz pours all individually priced. Rob will be in the scotch room simply talking and schmoozing with fellow lovers of beer.

Please join us as we tap:

Allagash Curieux
Allagash Black
Allagash Blonde
Allagash Tripel dry hopped with Sorachi Ace (super, super rare)”


An Italian restaurant? First I heard a Panera would be taking over the space, then I heard a Corner Bakery would be coming to the former Adams Mill Bar and Grill space which closed in Feb. ’11 at 1815 Adams Mill Road, NW. This property is killing my scuttlebutt to fact percentage. Well I’m in too deep to stop speculating now.

A reader sends a very scant report saying that a “new bar” was coming to the space and would probably open in April ’12. But no other details were revealed. So I’ve chatted with folks who usually have pretty good scuttlebutt percentages and they now say they hear an Italian restaurant will be taking over the space. I’m gonna keep digging for more details.



Nov. ’11

I suppose some part of me always knew this day was coming. First the removal of the Anna Maria sign and now this. A tough couple of months… Alas, it is not all horrible news. The gentleman painting the building said the iconic mural has been saved. It’s not clear to me if it will be displayed again in the future. More info when it becomes available.

Back in June ’09 we learned that a spot called Kindred Bar and Lounge has leased the space at 1357 U St, NW. It is my understanding that there have been some disputes with the landlord so it’s not clear what’s going on with the timeframe or even if the plans are the same (the kindred website is no longer live.) More info on that front when available too.


March ’11


First a fire at the Tune Inn in June then the recent closure of Hawk n Dove, the 300 block of Pennsylvania Ave, SE was due for some good news. And it got it. I was able to get some preview photos yesterday and the post fire renovations look great at 331 Pennsylvania Ave, SE. I think Tune Inn did an amazing job of maintaining the charm of the classic bar while making it super comfortable and good looking. Some finishing touches were ongoing yesterday but the photos will give you an indication of how sweet the renovation looks. They couldn’t give an exact time but said they’d be opening Friday afternoon.

Lots more photos including a look at the menu after the jump. (more…)


I can hardly believe it but Nov. makes five years since I started up the Prince of Petworth. Not in a million years did I think the site would turn into what it has today. While I try to work my ass off, the site’s success is 90% a result of you guys. I’ve said that from the beginning. The collective knowledge of PoPville is staggering. Sure opinions differ. Sure it gets heated at times. But you guys are the most knowledgeable, helpful, opinionated, compassionate, ok not always compassionate but always passionate people in DC’s blogoshpere. There has never been a question posted that hasn’t received an answer, opinion or suggestion. And to me that is what I treasure most about the site.

Though I do also love the fact that we’ve reunited countless pets, wallets, keys, and other items with their owners.

And I love how quick we are able to share information when something crazy goes down whether it be a crime, a fire or just an odd noise.

And of course I love the fact that some folks share my appreciation for the beautiful life. The fact that so many people care about architecture, stained glass, murals, gardens, bars, restaurants and food, history, sweet city signs, pets, interesting people, the absurdity of life, and yes even doors makes me so happy. There is def. a lot to love…

While we are a very diverse group in many ways, the one commonality that we all share, and the most important, is that in our own ways we all care about our neighborhoods. Actually we more than care – we are fanatical about our neighborhoods. Though we don’t always agree and we do tackle some really tough/controversial issues, our passion is merely another indication of how much we are invested in our city.

So having said that, come drink some delicious beers with me. We will celebrate not only the five years of the founding of the site but five years of the amazing community we have created. A big thanks to DC Brau who will be fixing up some special blend cask brews for the party and of course much gratitude to Meridian Pint (11th and Park Rd, NW) for hosting. And for all who’ve been asking – I’ll bring t-shirts!


Back in Aug. 11 we learned that Shaw’s Tavern located at 520 Florida Ave, NW would be closed until it was granted a liquor license. Late Wed. afternoon ANC5C03 rep Hugh Youngblood tweeted:

“#ABRA denied the Shaw’s Tavern alcohol license application. Let’s hope that the VA will help Engine Co 12 (Firehouse) in #BloomingdaleDC”

ABRA ruled:

You can read the full finding below:

Shaw’s Tavern Findings of Fact, Conclusions of Law 11-CMP-00314 – 11 02 2011

So what happens now – will it become a coffee shop or will the owner have to sell the property? Other options for the current owner? Any predictions?


Things keep picking up for the 700 block of T St, NW. Back in Sept. ’11 a new pizza spot, Pizza D’Oro opened up at the end of this row at 717 T St, NW. Now a new neighborhood bar is coming. According to a liquor license application posted at 725 T St, NW:

“All Souls will be a neighborhood bar offering traditional American food and drinks with an occupancy load of 99 and a sidewalk café with up to 50 seats. No dancing, no nude entertainment and no designated dance floor.”

I peeked in the window and it looks like a significant build out/renovation will be required so stay tuned for updates as construction progresses.


Back in Aug. ’11 we learned that the Hawk n Dove had been sold at 329 Pennsylvania Avenue SE. Even though we’ve had a couple months to digest the news it’s still crazy to see the photo above. Thanks to a reader for sending the photos.


Back on Oct. 6 we learned that Bella Cafe was now named Climax Sports Bar and Lounge at 900 Florida Ave, NW (by the 9:30 club.) At that time the sign looked like this:

Apparently that didn’t quite capture the essence of Climax – is this more climactic?

Though it is pretty sweet that the happy hour goes until 9pm…


Back in April ’11 we first learned of the plans for the 2nd floor space at 1216 Connecticut Ave, NW (above Shake Shack) in Dupont. This past weekened the Guitar Shop cleaned all of its inventory. The owner says that the shop will stay alive on the Web here.

According to a liquor license application the Guitar Bar will be:

“Upscale tavern serving European sausages, hotdogs, pretzels and popcorns featuring DJ and background music. No designated dance floor – no dancing. Summer Garden with 210 seats. Seating capacity is 60. Total occupancy load is 330.”


View More Stories