Well, they had a legendary 20 year run but last week brought the final drink at Asylum located downstairs at 2471 18th St, NW in Adams Morgan. Back in late Sept. ’11 the upstairs section of Asylum turned into a bbq joint with craft beer and bourbon called Smoke and Barrel (sister restaurant to Meridian Pint). [Ed. Note: Meridian Pint and Smoke and Barrel are PoP advertisers.] However the basement space remained Asylum. Owner John Andrade explained “all great things come to an end and with every end there are new beginnings.” He anticipates that the change downstairs will be gradual over a two week period. The downstairs will be renovated to match the decor upstairs. Like Meridian Pint, the upstairs will remain bar and dining focused while the downstairs will feature tv’s and games.

Anyone here remember Asylum from back in 1991?


Dear PoPville,

I know that Rita’s Water Ice at Florida and California NW closes down during the winter, but this is the first time I’ve seen a “Rent availability” sign in the window during the winter months. Any clue if this is a permanent change or just a chance to use the space while Rita’s is closed?


Thanks to a reader for sending this in from Calvert St, NW in Adams Morgan. I can’t find it in the archives but we once discussed a similar display found on Adams Mill Road. At that time I believe some folks were concerned that the way it was attached to the tree could damage the tree. Art or Graffiti?



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This rental is located at 2440 16th Street, NW.

The Craigslist ad says:

“Light filled, recently renovated, LARGE 1 bedroom in the Park Tower condo building, one-half block from Harris Teeter super market in Adams Morgan. Huge bedroom, separate dining area, large living room, beautiful kitchen, and brand new bathroom. Kitchen has Kitchen Aid stainless steel appliances (fridge, oven, dishwasher, microwave), granite counter top, and cherry cabinets. Recessed lighting throughout apartment. Walk-in closet by California Closets. New floors. Washer/dryer in apartment”

This 1 bed is going for $1101.



Photos courtesy of Mintwood Place

We last took a look at Mintwood Place back in early Dec. at 1813 Columbia Rd, NW below Perry’s in Adams Morgan. At the time they hoped to open by the end of the month. Unfortunately it’s gonna take a couple more weeks but in the meantime – they sent a few photos. It’s looking like it’s gonna be worth the wait:


MWP tagliatelle bolognese


Southern Hospitality located in the former Adams Mill Bar and Grill space at 1813 Adams Mill Rd, NW opens Thurs. 5pm. Thanks to GC for sending the photos. I wish I could share more info about Southern Hospitality but they don’t return my queries. I am eager to see what all the secrecy is about. We’ll def. be back for a judging in a month or so. If anyone stops by let us know what you think.


Dear PoPville,

I was at 18th and Columbia Roads and I noticed a still extant painted sign on building next to Sun bank at Columbia Road west of 18th that says “Merrini’s Califlorida” as I recall seeing it about 30 years ago there, do you know anything about it?

sssdc1 writes on flickr that it is:

“Menchini’s Califlorida Fruit Shop Ghost Sign, Columbia Rd NW DC”

I couldn’t find any more info online. Anyone else familiar with Menchini’s Califlorida Fruit Shop?


I’m getting reports that Tom Tom has closed at 2333 18th St NW in Adams Morgan. Calls to their phone number goes to voicemail and the mailbox is full plus there is no active Website. Anyone else happen to know if Tom Tom closed? Were there any fans? More info as it becomes available.

Update: PoPville twitter follower mindymoretti writes:

“Re: Tom Tom spoke w/ owner before holidays. Said he was going to close, renovate and open under new name/concept.”


From an email:

Sticky Fingers Sweets & Eats won Food Network’s Cupcake Wars in March 2011. This Sunday, the vegan baking duo from Columbia Heights will defend their title in Cupcake Wars All-Stars.

Watch the episode with founder Doron Petersan and head baker Jenny Webb to find out if they’ll win this war or eat and retreat in defeat.

WHAT: Cupcake Wars All-Stars Viewing Party on Food Network
WHO: Sticky Fingers Sweets & Eats Defending Champs
WHEN: Sunday, January 15 from 7-10pm (episode airs at 8pm)
WHERE: Bourbon Adams Morgan Second Floor (2321 18th St. NW)


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