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Thanks to a reader for sending: “signs of a new business between Citibank and Charles Tyrwhitt at Connecticut & K Streets.”

Porcelanosa’s website says:

“Porcelanosa started operations in the United States over 20 years ago and has quickly grown to become the choice resource for homeowners, builders, architects and designers. Our effective infrastructure of showrooms, retail partners and distribution centers enables us to inspire you with the latest products exhibits, rapidly deliver and tirelessly support the pre and post sales service so many have come to expect from the trusted leader in the Tile, Kitchen and Bath industry.

PORCELANOSA, a global leader in the innovation, design, manufacture and distribution of Tile, Kitchen, and Bath products, endeavors to be the industry leader by providing trendsetting cutting-edge designs of unparalleled beauty and refinement, uncompromising quality, technologically superior products and dependable services to its clients. Through a dynamic company owned and independent distribution network, PORCELANOSA will continue to assert itself as the supplier of choice in its core product categories, and by anticipating and delivering inspiring and advanced solutions to the needs of an ever evolving market, will maximize value for its shareholders and stakeholders.”


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Thanks to @OhBootsy (and others) for tweeting us the new coming soon signage for Avenue Jack at 1301 Connecticut Avenue, NW in the former Copenhaver space next to Starbucks. Their website says:

“We’re long time Washington, DC residents. We’re active in the community. And we love clothes. It’s as simple as that.

After years of working on the apparel manufacturing side, we are excited to be opening our first retail clothing store, just one block south of bustling Dupont Circle in Washington, DC. We are curating an exciting blend of everything from every day basics to one-of-a-kind pieces, that will enhance the modern, urban guy’s closet.

From the companies we all know and love, to small independent brands you haven’t heard of yet, we’ll have a hearty, ever-changing mix of wares ready for you when you walk through our doors.

We’ve got the keys, we’re busy building out our new space, and we can’t wait to open Avenue Jack in April 2015. Check back for the exact date of our grand opening.”

Ed. Note: Via email the owner tells me a soft opening is planned for Mid April.

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3301 11th Street, NW at Lamont

@gavinholland tweeted us the terrible news over the weekend:

“Nooooooooo!!!! Arthur’s Grocery at 11th & Lamont is closing tomorrow. They’re having one last party. @PoPville”

“he said that they’ve been there 40-50 years, but they’ve never owned the building. Landlord raised the rent beyond their capacity”

11th Street DC has written:

“Arthur’s Grocery is not just a convenience store, but a part of 11th Street’s community charm. This corner store sees many regulars and after school crowds for late afternoon snacks and has been owned and run by the same welcoming family for four decades.”

Indeed Arthur’s was an institution. From community BBQs to fundraisers for local boxers to just incredibly nice people. That’s the thing that will be hard for some to understand – it’s not about the store at all – it’s about the people who ran it and worked there. Every time I went in to buy a soda or a powerball ticket I always left with a smile. And they were nice to everyone. Young, old, white, black, it didn’t matter. That is what made them so special. They were welcoming to all. Maybe inevitable, like the loss of Columbia Heights Coffee up the block, but a dagger nonetheless.

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1630 Connecticut Avenue, NW

Update from a press release:

“San Francisco Bay Area based clothing retailer Fillmore & 5th has announced the location of its sixth boutique, opening today in Washington DC’s historic Dupont Circle at 1630 Connecticut Avenue, NW.

The store will be open every day from 11am to 7pm. Consignors have the option to make an appointment to bring in items during buying hours or leave pieces at the store for valuation and a follow-up quote via email. Interested consignors may call (202) 627-2711to set up an appointment.”

This is in the 1600 block of Connecticut Ave, NW in the former frozen yogurt spot.

Fillmore & 5th’s website says:

“FILLMORE & 5TH is a designer consignment boutique specializing in highly coveted clothing and accessories for women and men at a fraction of the original retail price. Customers can expect to find timeless Louis Vuitton and Chanel pieces alongside favorite basics from J. Crew and Tory Burch on the carefully curated racks. Consign the designer clothes, bags and shoes that no longer speak to your unique style, making room in your closet for something new. Whether consigning or shopping, you’ll receive impeccable service from our highly knowledgeable staff, trained to price your items for the best return and quickest sale.”

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715 8th Street, SE

In early February we learned that next door neighbors, Roses Luxury, would be opening a new restaurant in the Homebody space on Barracks Row. I stopped in to ask when they were closing and was told they’ll be open until summer. Also they’re looking for new space. Updates when a final date is known and a new space is found. If you’re not familiar with the shop you can see Homebody’s website here. Last we spoke there was a lot of love/hate for them. Mark me in the love column:

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It’s hard to keep up – fortunately you guys are good! Today a reader reports:

Centrolina has posted Job hiring info

[“Centrolina, the first solo project from Chef Amy Brandwein, will be an Italian market and restaurant set in Washington’s new CityCenterDC development. The market will offer a selection of imported Italian specialty items along with meat, fish, and produce from local farms, a selection of house-made items including handmade pasta and sauces, and a barista-serviced coffee program. The restaurant will showcase a seasonal, frequently-rotating menu of regional Italian dishes for lunch and dinner daily.”]

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Louis Vuitton has postage signage with a Spring 2015 Open Date

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Caudalie [French skincare company] is rumored to open today, they had their awning and signage put up.”


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A reader reports:

“1. Alexis Bittar [jewelery store] opened up next to Kate Spade.

2. Someone was evicted from City Center, the sad/interesting part was they moved out their own belongings, they weren’t dumped on the sidewalk, they packed up some items and left most of them in a pile for people to scavenge from. People were scavenging all afternoon yesterday.”

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