Cocktail Bar. 2 entrances: 130 Blagden Alley / 1230 9th St NW – Basement

Parting words from Never Looked Better:

“We opened in the middle of a pandemic, kept going after losing a beloved founding partner, and somehow created a space full of music, cocktails, and community. None of it would have been possible without our amazing staff—the true soul of this bar. To our bar team, security team, our DJs, and everyone who poured their hearts into this place: thank you.

And (more…)



photo by Michael Mundy

From an email:

“I’m thrilled to be sharing the news that today, September 5th, Ten Five Hospitality is unveiling their newest Desert 5 Spot in Washington D.C.’s very own Union Market. This cult classic country western bar and music venue – with celebrated locations in NY + LA known for their high-energy live music, retro design and craft cocktails – hangs its hat on D.C. ‘s rapidly evolving hospitality scene with an immersive, high-concept experience for patrons.”

The official word and deets from Desert 5 Spot (400 Morse Street, NE): (more…)



505 H Street, NW

Thanks to Jon for sending: “Very sad, was our go-to sushi place for many years. Hope they find way back.”

Momiji shares the sad news:

“To our amazing clientele and DC community, we regret to share with everyone that we are planning to close Momiji at the end of the September (9/30). We have lost our lease to the incoming hotel project, and are unable to delay the inevitable.

Thank you for being with us for 17 years. (more…)



10 Ridge Square, NW

From an email:

“WHAT: Chef Michael Mina, the award-winning culinary visionary behind Bourbon Steak, will debut his newest restaurant, Acqua Bistecca. The concept celebrates the convivial spirit of Italian dining with house-made pastas, fresh seafood, chargrilled steaks, and Mina’s signature flair. Guests can expect vibrant crudos, modern takes on Italian classics, and spirited cocktails inspired by Italy’s coastal towns, all set in a space designed to channel the warmth and joy of a dinner party.

WHEN: Opening September 8, 2025 Dinner service begins nightly at 5:00 PM.”

Full press release: (more…)



photo by Fritz Myer

“Dear PoPville,

I thought I would share an absurd story that just happened tonight in 16th Street Heights, on Arkansas Avenue.

At around 10pm tonight (Wed.), a vehicle was stopped by the police. Within a minute, 5 other law enforcement vehicles arrived, including unmarked vehicles with FBI agents, a vehicle from Customs and Border Protection, and several MPD vehicles. Altogether, there were about 15 law enforcement individuals (more…)



15th and P Street, NW

“Dear PoPville,

It looks like Planta Cocina on 14th and P seems to be closed. I walked by on my way to Whole Foods the other day, noticed it was dark, and thought, oh, maybe it’s the one day they’re closed. Walked by on the way to WF tonight and it was completely dark AGAIN. When I went to make a reservation for next Thursday, the option for Planta Cocina had been removed (but not for Planta Queen). Can you look into this and see what the deal is?”

Another reader sends Planta’s farewell not for PLANTA Cocina P Street: (more…)


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