A reader asked for a status update on Dave’s Tavern which we first learned about back in September. Unfortunately there was nobody there I could speak with but you can sorta tell from the photo that it looks like they still have a little ways to go before opening. Though I do think it’s a positive sign that they’ve acquired some kitchen equipment.
Asylum is of course a neighborhood landmark located at 2471 18th Street, NW in Adams Morgan. I had only known of the spot as a bar. But I’ve been hearing that it has an incredible brunch. On their Web site they announce that they are “DCist’s Favorite Breakfasts”. You can see their menu here. So what’s the word – is the breakfast really that good?
I hope it is because Asylum’s owner John Andrade will be opening a new spot, Meridian Pint in the old Bi-Rite building at 11th and Park, NW.
Back in December I wrote about the upcoming opening of Lounge of III, located at 1013 U Street, NW. A reader wrote in asking what was the status and I’m happy to report that they’ll be opening today (Monday, April 13th). I was given a quick tour and I have to say the place looks great. There are two levels. Downstairs there is a fairly big bar and a small seating area.
Upstairs (in the first photo) is more of a lounge area. It’s got a bunch of comfortable seats as well as a second bar.
There was a bit of a language barrier with the gentleman I spoke with but I believe the hours will be 10am – 1am. There will also be pub food served. I have to say I’m pretty excited that this section of U Street is getting a cool spot like this. Can’t wait to check it out.
Lots of folks are curious about the imminent arrival of this new spot. You can see all the awesome construction updates on a blog run by Room 11 partner Paul Ruppert, which is aptly named Room 11-Coming Soon. There are already some great shots on the site (including the one above). I didn’t think I could possibly get more excited about this project…
Saloon on U Street between 13th and 12th is a great bar we have discussed in the past. Last weekend for the first time I got to see the second floor. It is phenomenal. Very large and comfortable, though there are limited options for beer and food. So my question is – why isn’t the second floor of the Saloon open all the time?
From a reader:
“Thursday nights at the Nori restaurant (14th and Park) down in Columbia Heights. I plan on hosting DJs, producers, and artists to do what they do best — mix tunes, paint, project graphics on the wall, play along with their iPhones, shake maracas, whatever. Oh yeah, and eat mad sushi.
I’m calling the night Komori-uta, and I plan on starting April 9th. I’ll post more information about it on my music site, along with free song links and tutorials about how to find your next favorite beats for free.”
Thanks to a reader for sending word of the big permit request in the Derby’s front window (3718 14th Street, NW):
“REQUEST FOR AN EXPANSION ON THE SECOND FLOOR FOR A SUMMER GARDEN/ROOFTOP DECK WITH 47 SEATS.”
How awesome would this be? Seriously. I’m hyperventilating at the mere thought.
When I first checked out Vinoteca , located at 1940 11th Street just south of U Street, right after it opened I was a little disappointed. But that was a year an a half ago. Sadly, I haven’t been back. When we discussed the best wine bars Vinoteca got some good reviews. But I think it’s worth judging it on it’s own as I’ve been hearing from a number of people that it’s become quite good. I even hear they belly dancing some nights? Is that right or am I imagining hearing that? Anyway, now that it’s been open for a while – what’s the word on the food, atmosphere (it looks like they have a pretty nice outdoor area now), wine and price?
Now that the insanity of inauguration is over, I think it’s time for a proper assessment of Ben’s Next Door. I’ll go on the record as saying it is fantastic, both as a bar and a restaurant. They even serve the super cold Heineken drafts (which I think is mostly psychological but I dig the frozen taps). As far as the restaurant is concerned I’ve had a terrific fried chicken entree. You can see all the entrees here. Of course they also serve the classic fare that you can get at the original Ben’s. I refuse to write the address of Ben’s next door, you know where it is! So now that that lines have died down a bit, what do you think of Ben’s Next Door? Notice they painted the building as well. Looking good!
Ed. Note: Ben’s Next Door is located at 1211 U Street, NW. Damn…
Thanks to a reader for telling me about a new Italian Pizza place opening up at 1110 U Street, NW. Has anyone heard of the Italian Pizza Kitchen? Is it a chain? You think it’s a good addition to that section of U Street?
While I was in the neighborhood I also noticed that the restaurant above Bohemian Caverns (11th and U) got a paint job and might even be a new restaurant. (Sorry for the cell phone pics – see I don’t always have my camera on me!)
It’s called Hominy Restaurant & Lounge:
Their Web site says:
Hominy Restaurant & Lounge is a unique Southern Casual Restaurant in an 1800 Historic building of the Bohemian Caverns in the Heart of the “U” Street Corridor. Chef Howsoon H.O. Cham is at his best at Hominy Restaurant and delivers an impressive new Southern inspired masterpieces. The recently remodeled Space is cozy yet elegant with splashes of bright colors against sophisticated velvet walls with Faux finishes, large glass windows and dark oakwood flooring.
Our atmosphere is casual yet elegant. Enjoy our warm dining room by daylight or candlelight. Only one block from the “U” Street Cardoza Metro Stop, you will find Hominy Restaurant along the vibrant “U” Street Corridor. Whether in the mood for awesome drinks or a wonderful dinner, Chef Chams’ versatile menu of delightful menu items will satisfy.
The name Hominy refers to kernels of corn that have been soaked in a caustic solution and washed to remove the hulls. Our mission is to provide a friendly and professional service of exquisite food, wine, and cocktails to the satisfaction of every guest. Let hominy Restaurant be your favorite neighborhood Restaurant.
Sound good?
And finally Solly’s (Southwest corner of 11th and U) got a new fence for it’s outdoor patio so you can only access it from inside:
