In the begining of May we learned that the old Seafood & Crab space located at 1936 14th Street, NW (just south of U St.) was becoming a Chidogo’s and many folks were psyched. So I thought I’d quickly update that a coming soon sign has gone up announcing an opening this summer.

In other U Street news, I noticed that the recently closed Polly’s, 1342 U Street, NW, looks like it has had some movement with a bit of painting. More details on this space as they become available.

Here’s what the fence used to look like:


I did a double take when I saw this sign. While it’s not too far from the 9:30 club it’s def. a bit off the beaten track. Though with Darnell’s (formerly Mocha Lounge) at nearby 944 Florida Ave, NW this spot could be picking up a bit. The alcohol application says:

“Small neighborhood gathering place with entertainment to include dancing, DJ’s and occasional
3-piece combo band. Total occupancy load is 143 with 44 seats included for Summer Garden.”

It kinda feels like it’s in a bit of an industrial area so it seems like a good spot for a small “neighborhood gathering place”. And I gotta admit, I love Summer Gardens… Stay tuned for more details as they develop.


It looks like the building housing the Pharmacy Bar at 2337 18th Street, NW in Adams Morgan is for sale. I’m not sure what this means for Pharmacy Bar but it’s def. something I’ll keep my eyes on. I know Pharmacy Bar has a long history at this location and there are many many fans of their juke box. Stay tuned as more info becomes available.


It has come to my attention that some bars are petitioning for the right to temporarily open up 1 hour early during the World Cup due due to the time difference. That means bars would be able to open up at 7am rather than 8am. It is my understanding that no decision has been made at the moment. The World Cup starts June 11 and ends July 11.


On a side note – for those that are fans, where are you guys gonna watch? I’m thinking two soon to be opened spots will be a good time – Biergarten Haus on H St, NE and Meridian Pint at 11th and Park Road, NW.

Ed. Note: Allez Les Bleus!


Wow, I had high hopes when I wrote the post Formerly Angry Inch, Formerly True Story, Formerly Morgan’s – Now “Draft Pix” Sport Bar back in July ’09. I’ve seen a lot of businesses change over the years but this particular property may have the record. While I wish the Leaky Faucet the best of luck, what’s the over/under?

The Leaky Faucet is located at 2450 18th St, NW.


Cuba Libre will be located at 9th and H Streets, NW across from the old Convention Center. They have a few locations in other cities and describe themselves:

“The tantalizing tastes of Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar are based upon the culinary traditions of this storied island paradise. Inspired by the cuisines of various Latin regions, Cuban cuisine offers a mix of robust and soul-satisfying dishes. Cuba Libre’s carefully created menu combines beef, poultry, pork and seafood with exotic fruits and vegetables, herbs and seasonings. The contemporary cuisine is flavorful and savory, but only occasionally spicy. In keeping with the gracious social character of Cuba, some dishes are designed for sharing. Concept Chef Guillermo Pernot regularly updates the menus, making seasonal changes while maintaining signature items.”

The are opening in Spring 2010. Think they’ll succeed at this location?


A nice article in The Post today titled, Brothers build a restaurant dynasty. Melissa McCart writes:

“Eric is the idea guy and Ian the businessman; both have an easygoing manner that belies the fact that they have been busier than ever. They plan to open three restaurants by the end of this year: the Brixton, at the corner of Ninth and U streets Northwest; another in what was formerly Billy Simpson’s House of Seafood and Steaks on Georgia Avenue; and a spot that’s coming along next to Marvin (working name: Blackbird Warehouse). It will make for quite a year, one in which they also have opened Patty Boom Boom, invested in the new U Street Music Hall and advised Eric’s wife, Tien Claudio, and partner Steve Kaufmann on the recently opened Dickson Wine Bar.”

The Petworth project at Billy Simpsons will be located at 3815 Georgia Ave, NW.


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