Thanks to a reader for sending word that Juice Zone had closed at 1921 I St, NW. And nearby by at 1911 I St, NW BonMi is opening up on Monday.
Restaurants
Since we were talking about the former Cities space in Adams Morgan, I figured it was time to judge the newly reopened location at 919 19th St, NW downtown. Their Web site says:
“Welcome to Cities – where getting away is just steps away from the outside world. A restaurant and lounge experience like non other, Cities offers a unique approach to international dining – guests are transported to exotic and far away destinations through eclectic and meticulously crafted menus and a stunning setting that is beyond compare in Washington, D.C. Located at 919 19th Street, NW, in the heart of mid-town, our 140 seat dining room and 100 seat outdoor patio and lounge beckon for lunch, dinner, drinks, brunch, private parties or casual gatherings with friends. On the menu, small plates provide an array of flavors and fresh options for lunch or dinner, late night or lite fare. Great service and attention to detail are the priority, to help transport you to a different place – from the far reaches of China, to the rich culture of Cuba – and from the ancient magnificence of Athens to the truly international city of Washington, D.C. – each element brings you closer to an experience that is at once inviting and exciting. Enjoy an extensive and finely crafted menu for a unique dining experience, for lunch or for dinner. Our small small plates menu celebrates distinctive and fulfilling flavors from great culinary and cultural destinations.”
You can see their menus here. Anyone check them out yet?
Back in May ’10 we learned that Leftbank (formerly Cities) would become an Eastern European restaurant called Slaviya at 2424 18th St., NW in Adams Morgan. The Adams Morgan Bid now tells us:
“A Taste of New Orleans will be at 2424 18th Street, NW (where Slaviya is currently). They hope to be open by October 19th.”
I briefly spoke with the owner who said they should be open by this weekend. I’m already hearing from some who’ve got some preview tastes that the the crawfish etouffee is excellent. I’ll post the menu when it becomes available.
My only concern/question is – will they be able to compete with the great New Orleans Cafe down the block at 2412 18th St, NW.
Photo courtesy of Pho Bar & Grill
I’m happy to report that Pho Bar & Grill is opening on Wed. 5pm at 1360 H St, NE. At the moment they do not have their liquor license but they expect to get it within a week. Looking forward to hearing what folks think of the Pho.
Thanks to a reader for sending word that the Matchbox coming to 14th and T St, NW is coming along nicely. I peeked my head in the door and you can see the demo is massive (photo below.) So I thought it was time for a proper judging – Matchbox has current location in Capitol Hill, Chinatown and Rockville. You can see their menu here. Any fans?
Back in June a reader updated us on the massive construction going on at 1737 Connecticut Ave, NW in Dupont Circle. This building was formerly home to Anna Maria’s Italian Restaurant which closed back in June ’09.
A recent liquor license application posted shares some details about the new tavern, to be called Board Room, going into the retail space:
“New Tavern. Vintage game room with jukebox. Occupancy load is 251, seating is 90.”
I’ll admit it – I’m intrigued by the vintage game room. Any guesses/suggestions on what games they’ll have?
I know I need to get over it but I’m still gonna miss the great Anna Maria’s signs…
Photo by PoPville flickr user sssdc1
Back in May ’11 I gave a brief update on the rebuilding schedule after Banana Leaves suffered a devastating fire back in March ’11. I spoke with a worker on Sunday who said they are on track to reopen in about 2 months. I took a peek inside and it is a complete gut renovation. Should be pretty sweet when they reopen. Banana Leaves is located at 2020 Florida Ave, NW. Stay tuned.
According to their Web site:
You can see their menu here.
Any fans?
Incidentally, signage has gone up for Smucker Farms coming to 2118 14th St, NW:
Back in Apr. ’11 I passed on some scuttlebutt that a specialty meatball shop would be launched in Penn Quarter. It turns out the specialty meatball shop, Meatballs, is being launched by none other than Chef Michel Richard of Central and Citronelle fame. Meatballs is going to be located in the retail space next to Luke’s Lobster Shack at 626 E St, NW (though the size is about 3-4 times bigger than Luke’s).
There will be 4-5 different meatballs with various sauces. Choices will include traditional, lamb, crab, fried chicken and vegetarian. You can get a Grinder (“wit or witout” meaning the grinder will be made with garlic bread or regular bread). You can also make your order with pasta or a salad. I’m told the bread has been sourced from “the single most exclusive baker in the country, made fresh for meatballs twice daily. The secret is the pillowy interior.” Sauces include traditional marinara, alfredo, morel mushroom and a special one that will rotate. Prices will range from $6.99-$9.99.
The shop will offer dine in and to go options. They also plan on offering delivery so stay tuned for the delivery radius. I stopped in last week and the build out looked nearly completed. They say the shop will likely open in about 2 weeks. I was lucky enough to try the lamb meatballs and all I can say is that those who live or work nearby Meatballs are very very lucky.
We learned back in Aug. that The Pig is coming to 1320 14t St NW in Logan Circle. I was glad to see they’ve already applied for a liquor license.
“The pig will be a pork centric, “Nose to Tail” and “Farm to Table” restaurant, showcasing Eatwell DC’s own farm in La Plata MD, EatWell Natural Farm, and local pork producers, Dorsey Meats in Woodsboro, MD. We will also feature craft cocktails, American Beers and Wines from eco-conscious producers as well as small batch bourbons.”
It should open in Spring 2012.