750 E Street, NW (back in February)

From a press release:

“Today, Matchbox announces a July 3 opening for its newest location, a 4,360-square-foot space at 750 E Street NW in Washington, D.C. The homegrown chain recently closed its original Chinatown restaurant at 713 H Street NW to welcome the Penn Quarter arrival, which is located just three blocks away and boasts a 28-seat sidewalk patio in addition to 125 seats indoors. Fueled by its investment funding from Thompson Hospitality, Matchbox will continue brand-wide growth in the region with stores slated to open in Bethesda, Md. later this summer and in Reston, Va. in early 2020. Read More

713 H Street, NW

Whoa, another end of an era. This original Matchbox opened back in 2003. But fear not, Matchbox will be opening a new spot a few blocks away in Penn Quarter soon. Ed. Note: Last week we also learned about a new Matchbox coming to Cathedral Heights. Read More

444 7th Street, NW

Thanks to Dara for the update on SEI‘s closure. New going away words from SEI and coming soon signage for Wabi sabi. Read More

624 E Street, NW

Thanks to Mary for sending. Late last month we confirmed our earlier scuttlebutt that a Sweetgreen would be taking over the old Taylor Gourmet/Meatballs space. Stay tuned for an opening date.

“Give thanks to the Lord, call upon his name, make known his deeds among the peoples, proclaim that his name is exalted. “Sing praises to the Lord, for he has done gloriously; let this be made known in all the earth.”

444 7th Street, NW looking north

On Friday we learned that SEI’s retail sales had been suspended. It was unclear if they planned to reopen after working out, presumably, some tax issues. I stopped by the space on Saturday and learned they’d “Gone Fishing for something new”: Read More

444 7th Street, NW. Photos by Mark Lyon

Mark writes:

“Any idea why SEI Restaurant is suspended from operating? Looks like may be tax related?”

That definitely looks like tax related signage: Read More

Photo by narohs

Allie reported:

“9th St., between Pennsylvania and Constitution completely caution taped off in front of the DoJ due to a shooting this morning.

I asked one of the security guards. All I heard was that is was a shooting, but NOT an active shooter situation. There was a lady walking around in a “forensics” vest taking pictures of evidence.”

via google maps

DC Police Traffic reported:

“UPDATE: Police Activity at 9th Street & Pennsylvania Avenue, NW has the following streets CLOSED until further notice. Follow Police direction. Pennsylvania Avenue, NW from 10th Street, NW to 7th Street, NW 9th Street, NW from D Street, NW to Constitution Avenue, NW”

As of 9:25am: “Update: Police Activity at 9th Street & Pennsylvania Avenue, NW is CLEAR All Streets have been RE-OPENED“

The Washington Post reported:

“The shooting occurred about 2 a.m. at 9th St. and Pennsylvania Ave. NW, in the Penn Quarter neighborhood, and prompted police to close several roads. Pennsylvania Avenue was shut until 7 a.m., and 9th Street near Constitution Avenue remained closed longer.”

Updates when the police issue their official report.

624 E Street, NW

Back in January we posted some scuttlebutt that a Sweetgreen could be coming to the former Taylor Gourmet space in Penn Quarter. Thanks to Barred in DC for the heads up that it is no dream: Read More

courtesy Punjab Grill

From an email:

“Punjab Grill, at 427 11th Street NW, is excited to announce that brunch service will debut this Sunday, April 28. Diners can expect to find brunch favorites with a Punjabi twist, as well as classic lunch items on the menu. There will also be customizable Bloody Marys, champagne and brunch cocktails. Brunch hours are from 11 am until 3 pm.

Sample dishes include: Read More

641 Indiana Avenue, NW

Thanks to Sara for sending the update on Kabob Capital opening. This is the former Grand Trunk space that closed in February.  Peep the menu and a look inside: Read More