1728th 14th St, NW

Back in Oct. 2011 I started hearing rumors that Urban Outfitters was looking to open in the U Street area. I finally heard that they may have narrowed their search. A very reliable source says they are looking at that odd brick building at 1728th 14th St, NW between Crown Pawnbrokers and Redeem clothing store. At one point, a commenter previously said, this building was home to a International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers. Do you think this would be a good location for an Urban Outfitters?



1610 14th St, NW

Back in Feb. 2012 we learned that a new Italian gastro-pub and wine bar was coming to the former HR-57 space at 1610 14th St, NW in Logan Circle. It was later revealed that the Hilton brothers were going to take over the space and include a performance space. I’ve just learned that the Hilton brothers will be focusing on their current (numerous) projects and will hand over the lease to Executive Chef Ari Gejdenson from Acqua Al 2. So it looks like we’re in store for an Italian restaurant after all! Stay tuned.


M Cafe is coming to 1634 14th St, NW in the new Aston Condos. A liquor license application says:

“New Italian Bistro serving contemporary Italian cuisine. Sidewalk Café with 56 seats. Seating Capacity of 96 and Total Capacity is 119.”

It’ll be interesting to see how it compares to Posto located nearby at 1515 14th St. NW.

UPDATE: Thanks to a commenter for sharing their Website anticipating a September 2012 opening. You can see their menus here.


Last week their were rumors a whoopie pie store would be moving into the old ACKC space at 1529 14th St, NW. Thanks to all who sent emails and tweets about the new liquor license that was posted for the Gordon Restaurant Group:

“New Restaurant, serving American and International Tapas. Recorded background music will be provided. A total load of 110, total number of seats is 80, and Sidewalk Café with 16 seats.”

Dining BISNOW reported that this is the guy behind Tangysweet and Red Velvet Cupcakery. They note the owner hasn’t fully worked out his vision but he hopes to serve a “no bullshit breakfast”. Stay tuned.


The following was written by PoP contributor Jessica Bonness. Jessica Bonness runs JGB Interiors and writes at Paint It What I Tell You.

As I’m sure many in PoPville may have already discovered while out and about this weekend, Reincarnations Furnishings at 1401 14th Street, NW (at 14th Street and Rhode Island Avenue) is closing because they have lost their lease. Their unique, often one-of-a-kind pieces, will surely be missed. I frequently brought clients here to choose a piece of art, a quirky accessory, or shop for that one thing that’s missing from their space; we always found something, whether or not it was what we came in for. Reincarnations has always had good turnover of items, and their selections tend to be on a more affordable spectrum; as one of the first home and design stores in the now swanky and quite expensive 14th Street corridor, they held strong to their original concept. They really do have something for everyone.

According to the store there are currently no plans to relocate or reopen, as the future of the store remains to be decided. However, options are aplenty. In their own words, “We’re called Reincarnations – say that!” So I am, and I very much hope they find another place to do what they do so well, and soon!

Right now everything in the store is 20% off. As things get closer to closing, I’m sure the prices will dip further. This weekend there were tons of discounted chairs and rugs in the back room downstairs. You’re sure to find some great deals, and while you’re there, please wish them well for the future!

Ed. Note: Longtime neighbor Playbill Cafe closed in Sept. 2011 at 1409 14th St, NW.



1318 14th St, NW

Back in Nov. 2011 we learned that the Buffalo Exchange clothing store would be coming to 1318 14th St, NW in Logan Circle between the Logan 14 Spa and the coming soon The Pig restaurant. There had been very little visible progress since then but I’m happy to share a tweet sent by WBJ’s @NeibsWBJ:

“Building permit issued for the Buffalo Exchange store coming to 1318 14th St. NW.”

I imagine we can now expect serious work to begin soon.

For those not familiar with Buffalo Exchange:

“Founded in 1974 in Tucson, AZ by Kirsten and Spencer Block, Buffalo Exchange now has 41 operating stores in 15 states. Local customers can buy, sell, and trade clothing and accessories at their neighborhood stores. Each store’s ever-changing inventory includes designer labels, vintage, jeans, leather, current basics, and one-of-a-kind items, as well as brand-new merchandise and accessories.”


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