“Dear PoP,

This is one of the houses that was sold at auction (PoP Feb. 5, 2009) for $399,999. They just finished gutting it and the permit says it will be a single-family home – But I did get a laugh that the building permit is for “alterations and repair!””

This home is located at 3004 13th Street, NW (between Irving & Columbia Rd). Hipchickindc wrote about the home auction back in January. There was an update on some sales here. I’m definitely excited that these great homes are finally gonna get fixed up.


This condo is located at 1327 Randolph Street, NW:


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The flier says:

“NEW PRICE – MUST SEE!! Rich, contemporary finishes complement the open floorplan and two master suites!! Sip coffee or grill meals on the back terrace! Located in bustling Columbia Heights, this condo features glowing hardwood floors, stainless steal/granite kitchen, granite baths, and hardwired audio system. Walkscore gives 83 out of 100 – VERY WALKABLE!”

More info and photos found here.

I’ve always liked this building, I think I’ve posted the door before. The condo looks like it is on the ground floor or garden level. Do you think $395,000 sounds reasonable for this 2 bed/2 bath?


I’ve always known there were benches here but I never noticed the writing on them before. I’m not sure who sponsored the writing but it is certainly thought provoking. It is very interesting to see this perspective. You can see some of the writing on the bench above answering the question: “Why do you think the benches were taken out?”.

Do folks know if these benches were supposed to be removed or is this a preemptive protest?

More benches after the jump. (more…)


Last week I wrote about a new Vietnamese restaurant, Pho Viet, Coming to 14th Street in Columbia Heights. In the comments we heard it was going to be near Parkwood. This past weekend I was lucky enough to walk by and catch one of the owners, (sadly/stupidly I didn’t catch her name). At any rate, it will be located at 3515 14th Street, NW (pictured above) just south of Parkwood and next to the Cavalier liquor store. As you can tell it is not a huge space but the owner was super enthusiastic. She said the restaurant hopes to open at the end of September or early October. Can’t wait to check it out!


“Dear PoP,

Thought folks might be interested in seeing a top-down view of the streetscape/fountain construction going on in Columbia Heights. They definitely re-claimed some of the eastern part of 14th Street for the sidewalk project, especially out in front of the new Chipotle location. The fountain seems close to completion and in the mosaic style you seem to be fond of. Looking forward to seeing a finished product and the community reaction.”

So far I think this is going to look awesome. What do you guys think?


Well, I thought for sure it was going to rain like crazy on Columbia Heights Day. Thankfully, someone worked some mojo and while it was a bit cloudy in the morning the afternoon turned into a beautiful day. Like last year the photos really give the best description. Though like last year my favorite part was the cupcake eating contest. But beyond the cupcakes the best part is really just seeing folks from all over the neighborhood listen to music and have a good time.

Lots more photos after the jump. (more…)


I’m getting lots of emails about a shooting last night on 14th Street. I’ve inquired with MPD but haven’t heard any details yet. Anyone know what happened? I’ll update with more info as it becomes available later in the day.

UPDATE FROM MPD:

“Detectives from the Metropolitan Police Department


I’m told that Tynan Coffee & Tea located on Irving Street just west of 14th St., NW is about “half way done”. You can also see that they’ve applied for a liquor license.

Chipotle coming to 3113 14th Street, NW begins its build out Monday!


I along with many others (based on the emails I’ve received) have eagerly been anticipating the opening of Columbia Heights’ newest restaurant. I’m happy to announce that Social will open this Saturday! The bar opens at 4pm and dinner service begins at 6pm. I showed a sneak preview of the spot here. I was lucky enough to attend a mock service on Thursday evening. I gotta say, the food was amazing and the vibe was phenomenal. My overall feeling was that this is going to be a great date spot. Since so many new restaurants have recently opened up what is hard to articulate is what makes one really great. All I can say is that the vibe is what makes a new spot great. It’s what makes the recently opened wine bar Room 11 great and it’s what makes the nearby Red Derby great. Vibe is essential and thankfully Social has it in spades. But you’ll have to judge for yourself. The idea of various sized plates to share worked perfectly. And the fact that the place looks great doesn’t hurt either. I’m psyched to hear what you guys think of the place.


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