inside 3131 M Street, NW. Photo by Briah Oh

From a press release:

“Levain Bakery has made its name for 25 years as the purveyor of the crispy-outside, ooey-gooey middle, giant cookies that have long been on every NYC must-eat list. The celebrated bakery will officially open its doors in the Georgetown neighborhood of Washington, D.C. this Wednesday, September 16 at 8:00am. (more…)


Update from Otello:

“Dear loyal friends & patrons:

After over 30 years in Dupont Circle, Otello restaurant has permanently closed its doors. As with many other restaurants, the restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic has made it impossible for us to stay in business. Some other restaurants were able to pivot to pick up and delivery services, but it was determined that this was not a viable option for our little restaurant.

We hope you keep Otello in your memories as a place for good food, good times and cheer. On behalf of the entire team at Otello, we thank you for your years of patronage and we will miss you all!
– Otello Restaurant”

Sadly their phone number has been disconnected as well so it appears to be another end of an era. The Washington Post reviewed them in 1985:

“The newest red-sauce and red-check Italian restaurant is Otello, just south of Dupont Circle. (more…)


Ed. Note: The Coupe opened in Columbia Heights back in October 2012.

Thanks to all who messaged us about the name change coming to Columbia Heights’ The Coupe on 11th Street, NW between Park and Monroe:

“Any word on The Coupe? I walked by today and the front doors now have signage for “Magnolia Cafe” and the inside is totally decorated for Christmas, complete with a Christmas tree. Would love to know what’s going on there!”

“Branding and signage at The Coupe has been replaced by “Magnolia cafe.” I’m intrigued, but can’t find anything about the change anywhere…”

Hmm, if you go to The Coupe’s website you get the following prompt: (more…)



3223 Grace Street, NW. Photo of Church Hall’s new set up by Caroline

Robert wanted to know: “what are the best and safest (best spacing between tables) outdoor eating/happy hour spots in DC right now?”

The early responses (add yours below):

Grand Duchess, Lymans and Marx Cafe.”

Nina May in Logan Circle was safe with great service and food.”

“@LauriolPlazaRes is doing an AMAZING job having taken over & tented their entire parking lot out back in addition to their usual outdoor seating. Wipes packets & disposable menus & ample space.”

“@TAonCapHill (Trattoria Alberto) has plexiglass between the tables. It feels so safe. The servers are awesome about masks and gloves.” (more…)



1018 Vermont Ave, NW

Just happened to notice these guys on a weekend walkabout but can’t find anything about them online. Were they open before the madness hit? If so anyone take a taste? They’re located on the Vermont Ave just north of K Street in the building also home to Ramen and Pho on the third floor and Thai on the 2nd floor. (more…)



207 New York Ave, NW. Photo by Jonathan M. Rogers

Thanks to Jonathan for sharing with us: “long-vacant storefront in Truxton is getting a new Vietnamese coffee shop/deli, says ⁦‪@nigro4dc‬⁩”

Anyone hear more about this?

STAY TUNED.



1402 Okie Street, NE Photo by John

From a press release:

“Today, chef Matt Baker announces the opening of Baker’s Daughter, his all-day storefront offering prepared foods, coffee, gourmet grocery items, and gifts. Baker’s Daughter is located at 1402 Okie St. NE in Washington, D.C.’s Ivy City neighborhood, right across from Gravitas, the chef’s Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant. Though primarily focused on carryout and delivery, the cozy shop also offers a handful of well-spaced seats and free Wi-Fi to café guests. (more…)


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