Driftwood Kitchen opened in the former TruOrleans space back in October 2014.

“A cedar tree falls into the Mediterranean, travels through the Atlantic, and finally arrives in Washington DC. This is the fundamental concept of Driftwood Kitchen, located in the heart of the bustling H Street Corridor.

With a focus on Modern American food, Driftwood Kitchen borrows from the many different flavor profiles of the culinary traditions based throughout the Mediterranean.”

Updates when we learn what becomes of the space. Thanks to Lauren for sending.


4th and H Street, NE



2905 Sherman Ave, NW

Thanks to Eric for sending. Any fans of “Sóc Trăng” style cuisine?

Another reader writes:

“This house has been abandoned for at least three years and all of sudden in the last 2 months a lot of work has been done. I am not 100% sure, but I could’ve sworn I saw a couple people leave the house one evening with “Pho Viet” shirts. Now today this sign popped up on the house. I hope the Pho Viet crew (3513 14th Street, NW) are opening a new restaurant.”

Last month the Washington Post shared my love for Pho Viet (with tons of info about the restaurant and family) and included this little tidbit at the end:

“Along with her mother, Nguyen is opening a second restaurant in the area early next year, focusing on bun rieu, a vermicelli soup popular throughout southern Vietnam. The restaurant is an homage to the region where Nguyen’s love of cooking was born — and the woman who taught her about food.”

Updates when they get closer to opening. STAY TUNED.



1800 M Street, NW

From Bub and Pop’s (1815 M Street, NW):

“A few minutes ago while working in the office, our Assistant Manager, Ebony just came back to tell me that Capriotti’s has closed their doors.

This actually saddens me because I well understand the amount of effort it takes to start up and own and operate a restaurant. The folks at Capriotti’s worked very had and we at Bub and Pop’s certainly wish them well. I hope that all of their employees can find work quickly.”

Ed. Note: Capriotti’s opened here back in November 2013. “founded in Wilmington, DE and long a favorite of Delaware beach-goers.”



1346 Florida Ave, NW

Thanks to AH for sending over the weekend:

“Pictured is a long line of people waiting for Maydan to open on this very frigid night. What’s interesting is that you can actually make reservations at Maydan… I guess people like the food so much they are hoping to still get seated without a rez.”

Maydan’s website says:

“We want you to have a different approach to dining: one that’s about the food, but also the love, respect, and traditions that go into each dish. Our food tells the story of our own travels, from Tangier to Tehran and Batumi to Beirut, but it also tells the stories of voices that often go unheard. We were invited to sit and break bread with strangers, listening to stories and learning tried and true techniques. We felt welcomed, embraced, and valued, quickly becoming part of their families. We want you to feel that every time you visit.

When you enter our town square–our “Maydān”–we want you to feel a sense of wonder. We want you to forget what you know and be ready to explore. And we’ll be there with you for every bite. You’ll feel like you’ve met new friends–a new family–who will guide you through the square to a table full of dishes. Dips, spreads, salads, condiments, roasted and grilled meats, and seafood coming together in unison. Just remember, there is no wrong way to go about this.

The centerpiece of every table is the bread, which we make to order in Maydān’s clay ovens. It is an accumulation of everything we love about the regions we focus on: bread brings the meal together and bread brings people together. We want you to use your hands, making the bread your utensil. Share with your neighbor, break bread with your family and friends.

See you in our Maydān soon. We’ll be waiting.”

You can see their menu here.

Ed. Note: I support the enthusiasm. The early word on Maydan is very, very, very good.



3301-3305 12th Street, NE at Kearny via Masala Story

Masala Story tweeted the good news over the weekend:

“First of all we thank everyone for the support/patience and the time you all have waited to see this sign glow. We are excited to announce that we will be open for business Starting tomorrow Dec 31st 2017.”

Ed. Note: This was the once planned for location of a 2nd Indigo location. The early word on the Brookland Listserve is very good!



901 New York Avenue, NW

Last week we shared the good news (for those who work/live nearby) that Bagels and Baguettes was reportedly reopening at 901 New York Ave, NW just north of City Center and west of Mount Vernon Square (where the Apple store is coming) and the Convention Center. I took a walk to see where exactly it might be and hadn’t realized that Lawson’s Grill had closed:

Nice score for Penn Quarter. Stay tuned for confirmation/exact opening date.


looking east towards Acadiana and Mount Vernon Square.


previously 236 Massachusetts Ave, NE



1823 L Street, NW

Mackey’s moved to the former Laughing Man Tavern space back in March 2017. Still waiting to see what becomes of that space. City Paper reported: they’ll be coming to the Hotel RL Washington DC.

The liquor license placard for Pisco Y Nazca Gastro Bar says:

“New Restaurant, serving Spanish cuisine. Total Occupancy Load is 230, with seating for 230.”

Their website for a Florida location says:

“Pisco y Nazca Ceviche Gastrobar adds a modern twist to traditional Peruvian cuisine. Inspired by Peru’s top ceviche eateries, this new Miami restaurant serves up bold-flavored dishes, unique cocktails and a vast selection of local and international beers.”

Check out their menu too.

Maybe this is the Mackey’s space? STAY TUNED.


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