Petworth

3813 Georgia Avenue, NW

Back in August many of us were saddened to learn that the OG Chez Billy in Petworth had closed and would be reopening with a new concept. Having seen the new space and tasted the new concept, while I always will be a bit nostalgic for the old days, I’m super excited because Chef Tim Ma is the man and I freaking love pot stickers!!

Those who still lament the loss of Chez Billy may remain saddened by some of the interior changes (however: an even better renovated back patio will be coming this spring.) But those who love good food for a good price in a cool space will be very very happy.

For those not familiar with the background of Ten Tigers:

“Ian and Eric Hilton, together with partners Scott Herman and Chef Tim Ma are set to open Ten Tigers Parlour, a neighborhood tea house and bar on December 10 in Petworth. Located in the former Chez Billy space at 3813 Georgia Avenue, NW, the Ten Tigers Parlour will feature an eclectic menu of cocktails, teas, Asian-style street food and pastries throughout the day and evening.

The concept of Ten Tigers Parlour is inspired by the Chinese cultural influences, where tea houses traditionally serve as the community gathering place not only to eat, but to connect. “It has always been our goal to create a great neighborhood spot for people; an extension of their living rooms,” says partner Ian Hilton.

Chef Tim Ma, of Kyirisan, Water & Wall and Chase the Submarine has developed a menu of casual favorites, inspired by dishes he enjoyed as a young child. “I want to present food that is close to my heart, said Chef Tim Ma. It’s great to be able to offer simple dishes that require technique, but are unpretentious and just tasty.” The menu is crafted around a selection of handmade Soup Dumplings ($12), a popular dish not easily found in town. There will be handmade Bao Buns ($9), Pan-Fried Dumplings ($7), a selection of noodles ($11 each), Rice Donburi ($10) and more of Chef Ma’s childhood favorites. Pastry Chef Mollie Bird has designed a offering of Chinese pastries for Ten Tigers that includes egg tarts, sesame balls, almond breads and other specialties. (more…)

821 Upshur Street, NW

Ed. Note: Domku closed after a decade back in June.

From a press release:

“Anna Bran Leis and Shawn Leis who own DC Empanadas, announce the opening of their new concept, Taqueria del Barrio, in the Petworth neighborhood early 2017.

The modern taqueria will serve lunch and dinner with a solid bar program and then start brunch a little bit down the road. Anna has tapped cocktail expert Chris Martino to run the bar program and will have Mikey Torres in the front-of-the-house as General Manager. In the kitchen, Anna will be the Chef, as well. The menus will be comprised of tacos, tortas, a bar menu with appetizers, and traditional Mexican entrees as well as traditional desserts with a twist. Everything is going to be very authentic and scratch made, down to the tortillas. (more…)

3714 14th Street, NW at Quincy

So they underestimated the reopening date. It will be worth the wait for the El Sol reincarnation! Stay tuned for an exact opening date, (I’ve sent an email for confirmation) possibly Dec. 1st according to their website:

“Mexico City Street Food, Small Plates, Authentic Cuisine, Entrees, Fresh Ceviches, Weekend Brunch Specials, Craft Mezcal Cocktails – by chef Alfredo Solis, owner of El Sol, and his sister, chef Jessica Solis.”

looking north towards Red Derby and Lyman’s Tavern