11th and O Street, NW back in 2010 from the PoPville archives

When I try to explain what certain street looks were like, it’s simply not possible to properly convey what once was. But this gives a taste. What a transformation at 11th and O Street, NW. While I was getting photos of the new Haitian spot coming this summer, this corner totally jumped out at me. I happened to pass a photo from our archives recently and it staggered me.

Here’s how the corner looks today: (more…)



1416 11th Street, NW

From a press release:

“This summer, Itiyah, at an intimate 20-seats, will open in Washington, D.C. as one of the city’s only restaurants focused exclusively on Haitian fine dining.

Situated in Shaw, Itiyah pays homage to Haiti’s ancestral roots through a multi-course tasting menu driven by the seasons.

Chef Sebastien Salomon’s culinary ethos is rooted in early memories of his grandmother’s kitchen, where dishes were passed down through observation and memory rather than written recipes. A private chef for foreign leaders and prominent families in Haiti, his grandmother shaped Salomon’s understanding of food’s emotional core, propelling him to bring their homeland’s cuisine to new audiences.

Distinct Afro-Taíno influences that unify the Haitian people are woven throughout the multi-course tasting menu, from the symbolic use of corn native to Taíno cuisine to thoughtful reinterpretations of breadfruit, a once-marginalized staple of survival now reclaimed and transformed into elegant purées, composed desserts, and ice creams. (more…)



1314 9th Street, NW rear

ICYMI: The building that fronted 9th Street was home to the legendary A&D Bar which closed back in February 2017.

Tony wraps it up with the only words possible: “What can I say …”

OH THERE WAS A TIME…

Sundevich opened up in July ’11 in the alley off 9th Street behind 1314 9th St, NW. Sundevich opened their Capitol Hill location on January 1st, 2021. It appears that one will remain open. You can see their legendary menu here.

The lease listing for Sundevich’s Shaw space says:

“945sf one-story brick, flat-roofed box in Shaw’s Blagden Alley/Naylor Court Historic District. Was built as a garage, then was The Dog Wash for 10 years, finally was the original Sundevich, and has been so for the last 15 years. Current tenant is a renowned sandwich shop who has informed us he will vacate the space 3/31/26. (more…)



1921 8th Street, NW

Thanks to Thom for sending the tip: ” The Cava in Shaw is closing on Friday. Another business down in the Shay! Heard it directly from the employees. They were sharing it to all customers. Letting everyone know.”

Ed. Note: I also called and confirmed Friday is their last day in Shaw. Cava opened here back in December 2016. (more…)



1700 New Jersey Avenue, NW at R Street. Previously home to BKK and briefly Maman Joon

“Expect authentic Uyghur Lagman…hand pulled noodles with savory stir fried meat and vegetables. All are warmly welcome!  Get ready for Mom’s Uyghur Lagman! Asian Halal Cuisine.”

Thanks to Brian for sending: “Start the countdown, another new concept at 1700 NJ Ave NW. (more…)



1400 9th Street, NW

Ed. Note: For the old heads this is across the street from the old Azi’s Cafe. What’s old is new, what’s new is old and round and round we go…

“GENIKA CAFÉ
Your new favorite coffee spot ☕️
COMING SOON
1400 9th St. NW, Washington D.C.📍”

Thanks to Tony for sending: “Looks like 9th & O is actually becoming something, after many years!” (more…)



624 T Street, NW

Right Proper Brewing Company opened here back in December 2013. It was, what we call in the business, a GAME CHANGER.

Thanks to all who passed on the big news from Right Proper.

Some big tidbits from their IG video announcement:

Eckington is still coming, not yet but it’s coming “Summer”? Shaw location will be moving to a new “2nd generation restaurants space” somewhere in DC. Big news about who is taking over the space but they won’t say who yet. LOTS to stay tuned for. Goodness.

Any guesses on where the new space will be?

See the full vid: (more…)


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