U Street

ChiDogO’s Closing Nov. 11th at 14th and U St, NW – Major Housing/Retail Construction to Start in Dec.

By Prince Of Petworth

With Taco Bell and her other neighbors closing over the summer we knew Chidogo’s days were numbered at 14th and U St, NW (home of the old Seafood & Crab takeout.)

Chidogo’s opened up back in Nov. ’10 to mixed reviews. As for why they completed a significant renovation to be open for only a year – that is not entirely clear. My guess is that they wanted to get their name out and introduce folks to the brand but that’s just a guess.

So, for the fans fear not – Chidogo’s will be opening locations in College Park and National Harbor. I’m also told that when the new development from JBG is completed – they may return to one of the retail spaces.

Those who’ve walked south on 14th St, NW past the former Taco Bell space have likely noticed the wrapping on the windows (see above.) You may have heard of this development referred to as the Utopia project. It is no longer being called the Utopia project but it is still being developed by JBG. I’m told that demolition of the former Taco Bell and other spaces will commence in December. Stay tuned for more details on the project including the residential spaces as well as any new retailers who sign leases.

Climax Sports Bar and Lounge Gets New Signage

By Prince Of Petworth

Back on Oct. 6 we learned that Bella Cafe was now named Climax Sports Bar and Lounge at 900 Florida Ave, NW (by the 9:30 club.) At that time the sign looked like this:

Apparently that didn’t quite capture the essence of Climax – is this more climactic?

Though it is pretty sweet that the happy hour goes until 9pm…

Brixton Taking Shape at 9th and U St, NW

By Prince Of Petworth

Check out the Brixton starting to take shape at 9th and U St, NW. The Brixton is of course one the projects from the Hilton brothers (Marvin, Gibson, Blackbyrd etc.) On that note I visited Chez Billy’s coming to Petworth and all I’m gonna say is that even in it’s skeletal shape – well it blew me away. Stay tuned on both fronts… Actually one more front, I passed The Independent also from the Hilton brothers coming to 715 Florida Ave, NW and major construction has been accomplished there as well.

Judging Restaurants – Chix

By Prince Of Petworth

Chix is located just off U Street at 2019 11th St, NW. Their Web site says:

“CHIX is committed to providing natural, healthy, delicious, affordable, quick latin-flavored meals in a casual environment.”

You can see their menu here. Any must order items?

Judging Restaurants/Bars – Standard

By Prince Of Petworth

Standard is located at the corner of 14th and S St, NW. You can see their menu here. How’s the bbq? Anyone try the donuts yet?

Full disclosure – after I took the photo above they gave me an apple cider donut. It’s hard for me to judge because I was starving at the time but in the .2 seconds it took me to devour it, I thought it was delicious.

Free Showing of Waiting for “Superman” followed by a panel discussion on education policy

By Prince Of Petworth

From an email:

“The U Street Neighborhood Association’s Education Committee invites you to attend the final screening of the 2011 U Street Movie Series with Waiting for Superman on Saturday, October 22, 2011 from 12:00 pm to 3:30 pm at the Shaw @ Garnet-Patterson Jr. High School, 2001 10th Street, NW.

As seating is limited, FREE registration is required to attend.

The screening of the movie will  be followed by an engaging panel discussion about the education of the District’s children, a pressing community issue.  Doors open at 12:00 pm (12:15-2:00 pm screening; 2:15-3:30 pm panel conversation).  A networking reception at Duffy’s Irish Pub and Restaurant, 2106 Vermont Avenue, will begin immediately after the conclusion of the panel discussion.

The panel discussion will be moderated by Jackie Gran and Education policy expert, and neighborhood resident. Confirmed panelists include:

  • Jason Kamras: DCPS Chief of Human Capital, featured in the film, and neighborhood resident.
  • Evelyn Boyd Simmons: ANC 2F Education Committee Chair, and parent of two Garrison Elementary students.
  • Reuben Jacobson: Senior Associate for Research & Strategy for the Coalition for Community Schools, former DC Teaching Fellow, and DCPS parent.
  • Patrick Mara: Ward 1 DC State Board of Education Representative.
  • Robinette Breedlove: Principal, Meridian Charter School.
  • Kerry Sylvia: Teacher, Cardozo High School.
  • Ann McLeod: Garrison Elementary PTA President, and parent.

There is a suggested $5 cash donation at the door.”

Arts@1830, Formerly Raven Arts, Gallery Opens at 1830 14th St, NW

By Prince Of Petworth

I was happy to see that Arts@1830, formerly the Raven Arts Gallery from artist Regina Miele, had opened at 1830 14th St, NW. This was formerly home to L & N Thrift Store. It is located directly across the street from Bar Pilar (who incidentally is is still expanding into the former Raven Arts space.

For those that remember what the L & N Thrift store looked like – you will be blown away by the transformation. Def. worth checking out.

Good Deal or Not? “stunningly modern inside” edition

By Prince Of Petworth

This home is located at 1461 Florida Ave, NW:


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The flier says:

“Historic exterior stunningly modern inside, top-to-bottom renovation of a 3 level rowhouse with addition and sep. 925 sq ft rental unit (will rent for over $2K a month. ) Top two floors feature 2 Master Bd, 2.5 Ba and grand entertainment space. Beautiful Hwd floors, skylights, floating stairs case, walk-out patio and sleek kitchen with huge stone-top island. Steps to U St Metro and park.”

You can find more info here and photos here.

This 3 bed/3.5 bath is going for $899,777.

Ed. Note: Last week’s GDoN Revisted 1412 Florida Ave NW which sold for $805,000.

Good Deal or Not? “Just 3 years young” edition

By Prince Of Petworth

This home is located at 1447 Swann St, NW:


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The flier says:

“Just 3 years young this Delightful 1BR + Den/2BA Condo features High Ceilings, Beautiful, Light, Wood Floors, LR w/ FP, Granite/Stainless Kit with Eat-In counter, Large Sunny MBR, Den (perfect as 2nd BR), W/ D hook up in unit. Perfect Location on pretty tree lined Swann Street, Just steps to 14th Street, U Street Corridor/Metro, Logan Circle and Whole Foods”

You can find more info here and photos here.

$449,995 ($248 monthly condo fee) sound right?

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