I’ve been curious to learn what will become of the space, that most recently was a bodega and sold frozen yogurt, at 1813 Columbia Rd, NW. It closed almost exactly a year ago in Oct. ’09. A recent alcohol application permit recently went up saying:

“Restaurant with recorded music and entertainment limited to DJ with no dancing. Seating capacity is 113. Total Occupancy load is 124. Sidewalk Café with seating for 24.”

I’ll be sure to update when more info becomes available about the restaurant.


I’ve been getting a number of emails from readers about the sign that has gone up at the old Oya’s Mini Bazaar and African Art space located at 2420 18th St NW. This is the space that I learned will become:

‘a “Tryst” type spot (coffee house, sandwiches, etc…) with low sofas and lots of gathering space. The new owners have already purchased a liquor license. There wasn’t a kitchen previously so they will have to build out a whole new kitchen and remodel the inside so it is likely going to take a number of months before they open up.’

Thanks to all who sent emails.


From an email:

Halloween Fiesta at The Passenger
Saturday, October 30th – 7 P.M. to Close
1021 7th Street, NW. Washington DC, 20009.

Join us for an evening of tacos, Tiki and terror, as we explore the mythic origins of the El Zombie cocktail, an evil combination of Mezcal, overproof rum and infierno*. We will roast a whole pig and turn it into tacos all night. Our drink specials include El Zombie served in a secret room designed to recreate Dr. Duran’s laboratorio, along with El Bastardo Sufriente, Mezcalaritas and Flaming Escorpión Bowls at the front bar. We will also be joined by a Mariachi band and pay for the bar tab of one lucky costume contest winner. $10 entrance fee at the door.

*While the famous Tiki cocktail, the Zombie, was created by Tiki founder Donn the Beachcomber, El Zombie’s origins are a little more murky. Some say that Donn bought his recipe from Dr J. Duran, a master chemist working in a secret lab for the Mexican government. When his potent potion, designed to resurrect the dead did the exact opposite and turned the living into zombies, Duran was forced to leave the country and landed in California. Donn the Beachcomber secretly purchased the recipe from Dr. Duran but not before the doctor changed a few elements to keep hell from taking over. We now have the original, brought to us through an old manuscript discovered by our chef, Dr. Duran’s great grandnephew. For one night, we will serve it from a haunted recreation of Dr. Duran’s lab. Guests will have to undertake stress tests before administering the secret potion. God save the District!


It’s been a while since we heard the news that 1015 H St, NE would become the Atlas Room in the old Napa 1015 space. I just noticed the new awning had gone up and here’s a bit more info from their Web site:

“The Atlas Room offers a dining room that strives to provide a menu of local seasonal offerings in a unique and relaxed atmosphere. Its modern American cooking style draws inspiration from around the globe while focusing the menu on local and sustainable ingredients. The bar offers the opportunity to indulge in a selection of signature cocktails and wines while relishing the seasonal and ever evolving menu. Our style of dining reflects today’s eating sensibility, with the option of all menu choices available in a personal, appetizer or main plate portion size.

The Atlas Room will provide the community with a high quality eco-conscious restaurant and bar. A restaurant is capable of being more than just organic to the neighborhood by fitting into the surrounding landscape and demographic. It should also strive to fill a need at the basic social level for connecting with those around us and experiencing the conviviality of the table. The Atlas Room will have this ambitious goal at the heart of its fine seasonal food and wine offerings and consistently gracious approach to service.”

Hopefully, it’s not too much longer until they open.


Tynan will be located at 1275 First Street, NE. And they say they’ll be opening in 2-3 weeks. Nice. I of course noticed the big sign announcing a happy hour, proclaiming it the best happy hour in NoMa. Just wait till the Harris Teeter opens…

Just out of curiosity – does the Columbia Heights location also serve beer?



Photo by MJ, first ever Red Derby Roof Deck opening 10/22/10

We’ve known for a couple of years that Red Derby (located at 14th and Quincy St, NW) was looking to get a roof deck but excitement began to build in earnest when permits were filed this past June. As some know, I was sick as a dog last week but I started receiving emails Friday night about the Derby’s deck opening and at that moment I fully recovered. Special thanks to MJ for sending some photos and sending the very early word. Also thanks to all the other readers who sent in word about the opening.

As some will note, it is a bit unfortunate that the deck opens just as cold weather is coming however, this weekend was beautiful and when I checked it out on Sat. I also spotted some heaters. So unless we get a crazy winter like last year, I’d say it’ll be open for a while. And of course next Spring is absolutely going to kick ass.

One of the best bars (if not the best bar) in DC just got way better. Lots more photos after the jump. (more…)


“Dear PoP,

Anybody know what’s up?

When I asked at the raven they told me they were being” bedazzeled”.

Back in July ’09 there were some upgrades on the inside. I also noticed some work going on outside. I just assumed that it was getting a little spit and polish. But it does look like the wood border might indicate something more intricate. Anyone know the scoop? I’ll be sure to update with new photos when the fascade renovation is completed.


Thanks to a reader for sending in the photo. Does anybody remember Cities? The name sounds familiar but when I did a brief google search I couldn’t find anything beyond an old craigslist listing hiring managers. Was it previously located at 19th and I St, NW? Was it a good restaurant/lounge?

I’ll be sure to update when they re-open.


Black Fox is located at 1723 Connecticut Ave, NW. Their Web site says:

“Offerings include: Classic and original cocktails, wines from luxury wineries around the world, a light Continental menu, and intimate live performances by some of the most talented musicians in the region including jazzy swing-outs, delicate piano balladry, soul, showtune stompers, piano and bass combos, and guitar solos.”

You can see their food and drink menus here. Any fans?


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