Well then, thanks to Christine for sending “From today’s Post “health code violations”. Not sure why this struck me as funny this morning – Ax(e) throwing is a prohibited activity”.

Can we get some clarity on hatchet throwing please?



Photo by Lorie Shaull

The following was written by Tony T, “Tony Tomeldon is a DC native, dad of three all-virtual students, husband of a physical therapist and owner of The Pug, Partner at Union Trust and Brookland’s Finest.”

THIS MARCH MADNESS: PLACE YOUR BETS ON DC

It goes without saying that this damn virus has impacted a huge number of businesses in DC. I’ve lost track of the bars and restaurants that have closed, and the friends who have watched their dreams disappear. We say it over and over again, but even in the best of times, our margins are incredibly narrow. The grants and aid packages have been very helpful, but as a friend says, we’re not running P & Ls we’re running L & Ls. Also, don’t forget congress gave us territorial aid, not state aid. We still need help.

Last year, DC legalized sports betting for wagering on games through apps and in-person. I’m too emotionally involved in my teams to bet. My big gamble was getting involved in the hospitality business. Someday, I’ll let you know if that bet paid off. I’m just a bartender, so it may be above my paygrade, but I’m hoping (almost begging) that some of the tax revenue raised on betting in DC can be used to help my industry. (more…)



3615 14th Street, NW

Thanks to Kevin for sending the update that the Artemis had opened. This is the former Airedale space, which closed over the summer.

“We are a neighborhood sports bar/ focused on showing you all your favorite sports while providing great food and drinks.”

The Artemis’ website says:

“Your Columbia Heights Neighborhood Sports Bar.

Now Open!
Wed-Sat 4PM – 10PM
Sunday 7AM – 10PM

Now Showing Premier League Games On Sunday Mornings (more…)



1345 Connecticut Ave, NW

In late December Barredindc reported that “The Big Hunt Has Terminated Its Lease. Building for Sale/Rent”. I’ve been waiting for official word to come out but after spotting this dreaded sticker, I can be in denial no more:

For those not familiar:

“The Big Hunt is a one-of-a-kind dive bar and comedy venue in a sea of trendy clubs in the Dupont Circle area of Washington DC.

Open since 1992, The Big Hunt is one of DC’s oldest beer bars and has been serving quality craft beers on draft since long before the craft movement became mainstream”

The Big Hunt’s website is no longer live, their phone number has been disconnected and their last Facebook post is a tribute to their founder Joe Englert (RIP) and the page lists that they have “Permanently Closed”.

There’s much that can be said about The Big Hunt. It had it’s ups and downs like all spots do that have been open for so many years. At the end of the day all I can say is that I spent many many hours here, had many many good times here and met many many great people here. This Big Hunt was a great bar. (more…)



3615 14th Street, NW

Thanks to Drew for sending: “Bummer to see the Airedale isn’t coming back, but happy to see this sorry block of 14th won’t be completely empty. There’s a football, baseball, and soccer all in each star of their logo above the door.”

Updates as we learn more.



1 M Street SE photo by Brian G

Thanks to Brian for sending: “Scissors and Scotch sign is up in Navy Yard and looks close to opening”

A new liquor license placard says: “New Retailer’s Class “C” Tavern featuring an upscale men’s grooming hair salon with a retail bar attached. Total Occupancy Load of 21 with seating for 21 patrons. Applicant is also applying for a Sidewalk Café Endorsement of 22 seats.”

Stay tuned for an opening date.



Photo by Rafa Aremu

From the Mayor’s Office:

“Today, Mayor Muriel Bowser released the following statement on the Reopen Washington, DC Alcohol Act, which was filed with the Council of the District of Columbia. The legislation proposes several innovative approaches to help rebuild the District’s economy by providing businesses and patrons with expanded opportunities; bringing essential services, including new full-service grocery stores, to Wards 7 and 8; and maintaining the city’s reputation as a top destination to live, work, and dine out.

“I have charged my Administration with developing bold, innovative solutions to ensure our businesses and the workers they employ can thrive beyond this pandemic. As we continue to focus on boosting the District’s economy, this legislation will move us in the right direction by removing hurdles for businesses and providing new ways to bring in revenue. Since the public health emergency began last March, the District has led the nation in pivoting to support restaurants and food service establishments through various funding opportunities, including the $100 million Bridge Fund, the $33 million DC Small Business Microgrant Program, the Ward 7 and 8 Microgrant Program, the Small Business Resiliency Fund, and the Streatery Winter Ready Grant Program. As we move toward a new normal, we will continue creating more innovative programs that help local businesses make it to the other side of this pandemic.”

Proposed provisions in the Reopen Washington, DC Alcohol Act include:

Extending programs introduced on an emergency basis, including Streateries
Establishing a Commercial Lifestyle License that allows patrons to walk around and consume alcohol purchased from on-premises establishments within predefined boundaries
Creating a new 25 percent full-service grocery store Class A License to help attract new full service grocery stores to Wards 7 and 8; applicants interested in using this license to open a Class A grocery store in Wards 1-6 must first operate such a store in Wards 7 and 8 for at least six months
Amending several licensing operational requirements



925 U Street, NW at Vermont Ave

From an email:

“We are planning an outdoor-focused fun concept with guest seating exclusively outside. Full bar with local beers only. It’ll be breezy and relaxed overall with a large awning that is open on all sides. Still working through the various applications, design, naming and permit processes. Hoping to open sometime this summer!”


near El Rey, Dodge City and Velvet Lounge

The liquor license placard says: “A new Retailer’s Class C Tavern with a seating capacity of 63 and Total Occupancy Load of 70.Sidewalk Café with seating capacity of 63.”


across the street from Service Bar and Taqueria Xochi

Stay tuned for an opening date this summer.



2315 18th Street, NW

Alex writes: “Assuming this is based on its external appearance and not based on any insights, but has anyone heard anything here?”

Having once prematurely shared a rumor of Dan’s Cafe’s possible demise years ago, I was certain not to make the same mistake twice. As I was investigating this weekend I had the good fortune of running into the owner on 18th Street who assured me that Dan’s Cafe would be reopening when the District gets to phase three. So STAY TUNED for that. And thank the Gods.


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