From a press release:
“As Washington, DC grows and expands, residents are more and more looking for their “own” neighborhood spots, and they’ll soon have one. Expected to open in late spring 2015, The Royal will be a classic corner neighborhood joint located in the heart of DC’s historic LeDroit Park neighborhood at 501 Florida Avenue, NW. A coffee shop and lunch spot by day, and an intimate bar and casual eatery by night, The Royal will be a unique all-day destination for morning coffee, leisurely lunch, after-work cocktails and simple yet creative fare.
The intimate and versatile split-level corner spot aims to be a central “hub” for the neighborhood, connecting residents and visitors within a welcoming, accessible gathering space. In the morning, The Royal will boast a full espresso program, brewing up Counter Culture coffee for those on-the-go or looking to spend a leisurely morning, along with breakfast offerings and fresh juices.
Come afternoon, The Royal will offer one all-day menu, described by owner Paul Carlson and Chef Lonnie Zoeller as “our families’ comfort food presented as elevated bar snacks to complement the uniquely crafted cocktail program.” Inspired by both Carlson and Zoeller’s familial ties to Colombia, fresh meats, seafood and vegetables will be prepared on the wood-fire grill and accompanied by an assortment of house sauces.
The Royal’s beverage program will focus on craft cocktails, helmed by beverage director Horus Alvarez. The underlying theme behind the cocktails is simplicity – fresh ingredients, fruits, herbs – used in an array of both classic and signature cocktails. The bar will boast an extensive vermouth selection, featuring a housemade vermouth on draft. Carlson sourced a vintage ice shaver from Guatemala, which will churn the base for creative shaved ice cocktails, available year-round.
The Royal will also offer a small yet well-curated wine list of approximately 8-10 wines by glass, plus some unique reserve bottles and draft and bottled beers. The goal is to offer drinks that are simple, approachable, and affordable. (more…)
