1432 Pennsylvania Ave, SE via Wisdom

Thanks to Joel for passing on from Wisdom:

“Friends, patrons, and gin heads-

it is with profound gratitude that I announce that Wisdom’s closing its doors after exactly 12 years of business.

In 2003, I developed a dream-that quickly became an obsession – of opening a neighborhood cocktail lounge. The cocktail resurgence was in its infancy and at the time there were very few resources to learn about the craft. That challenge was part of the appeal. I spent a lot of time and energy researching and experimenting with flavors and recipes. After years of military service, I found a city and neighborhood to plant my feet and finally take a leap of faith.

In October 2008, I opened Wisdom – DC’s first cocktail bar. It was an uphill battle on many fronts. I opened an upscale cocktail bar in an underdeveloped part of Pennsylvania Ave SE during a recession, with a culture that had little knowledge of cocktails, and in a city that I knew almost no one in. Some would call that foolish and others would call it brave; I suppose the truth is somewhere in the middle. Chasing this dream sparked passion and purpose, which stoked the fire of persistence. We always had to fight for our customers and could never take them for granted. That is probably what made the bar so special. (more…)



919 U Street, NW

Thanks to Mark for passing on word from El Rey:

“El Rey fam. Ever since we announced our closing your support and love has been overwhelming

We heard you, which is why we will NOT close on October 31st and will stay open for as long as we can – for you, for our staff, for DC. Thank you and nothing but love #UStreetDC!”

Ed. Note: Back in September we had learned American Ice Company, The Brixton, Echo Park, El Rey, The Gibson, Marvin, and Players Club reportedly will close “for the foreseeable future on Halloween.”

Updates if there are miracles for any of the other Hilton brothers spots mentioned above.



3718 14th Street, NW at Quincy Street, NW (next to the also awesome Lyman’s Tavern)

Ed. Note: Red Derby has been awesome since 2007, with your support they will continue to be so in 2027.

“Dear PoPville,

I am writing to give a huge shout-out to the team at Red Derby – Sasha, Bianca and Ruby. For 28 straight Fridays, they have SUPPORTED us with terrific take out drinks and food. Each Friday, a small group of us gather for a few libations outside after a long week of work and the team at Derby always delivers. It’s become a tradition. It’s given us something to look forward to during this nightmare and it also helped support one of our absolute favorite local establishments. I highly recommend you check them out.”



Formerly located at 11th and P Street, NW

The Commodore opened up in the former Veranda space at 11th and P back in 2016. They closed in November 2019. Perhaps that petition worked after all.

Thanks to all who passed on the tantalizing word from The Commodore Public House & Kitchen:

“Anyone in the mood for some? Good News!! #comingsoon #goodnews #shawloganhome #micasasucasa” (more…)


Zeina asks (and others sent photos) “any info about the shooting @ Kiss Lounge in Shaw?”

I haven’t seen any official word but per usual the ever present Alan Henney has a bit of detail:

“SHOTS FIRED INVESTIGATION– Police are investigating after report of exchange of gunfire INSIDE a business at 7th and T Sts NW-DC in the Shaw area. Nobody was found injured.” (more…)


On Thursday we shared the sad news from the Codmother’s owner Tolga Erbatur, which simply said “Farewell Mother.” I’ll be honest, a part of me was hoping that we’d witness another miracle but alas I was saddened to see:

Thanks to Diego (and everyone else) who sent The Codmother’s legendary playlist preserved on Spotify.

One last look at the poster for posterity: (more…)



1339 H Street, NE via the Pie Shop

Big news from the Pie Shop:

“After 6 months we are re-opening our 2nf floor patio for drinks, starting tonight! We are currently reservation only so head to Resy for info and to book now.

We’ll be open all weekend to make the most of this perfect fall weather! We can’t wait to see you! Thanks for supporting your local pie shop.”


View More Stories