Back in January I mentioned that Bella was going to take the space of the old Asmara Cafe at 900 Florida Ave, NW (across the street from 9:30 Club). I had the opportunity to peek inside and have a quick chat with the owner. First of all this place has been completely gutted and redone. Bella will take up two floors. They will have some music occasionally on the second floor. He expects to open in about 2 months. I’ll be sure to update with more photos as the construction progresses.


We last judged 2121 11th Street, NW in the beginning of March.

From an email:

“Thursday March 25th 6-9PM.
Food, Drinks & DJ Danny Harris of Fatback.

Also featuring works from local artists:
Joshua Cogan – Photography
Assefa – Paintings
Edmond van der Bijl – Screen Prints”

Ed. Note: Danny Harris contributes the People’s District to PoP.

You can take a virtual look inside from the same guy who did the Columbia Heights video.


Thanks to a reader for sending the great news:

“I was walking past today at Solea and saw this alcohol license in the window for Du Vin Osteria. A wine bar and small plates restaurant with seating for 199 and patio seating for 28. Very exciting news, especially with Pica taco moving in across the way.”

The alcohol license says:

“New tavern. Small plates. Formaggi selections and Charcuterie selections. Occupancy load 199. Sidewalk Café seating for 28.”

I’m psyched to hear they’ll also have a sidewalk cafe.

We discussed the non profit going into Solea here.

Update: Thanks to a reader for sending a bit more info from a Facebook page:

Du Vin Osteria was conceived as a wine and tapas bar found in rural towns in the South of France and Northern Italy. I liked both places so much I wanted to mesh the best of both worlds and create a rustic unpretentious place where people gather to savor wines, artisanal /seasonal beers, swanky drinks and eat hearty small meals while indulging in conversation or reading the paper. We also will have an outdoor café with table service to dine alfresco for your most enjoyment during the spring and summer seasons.

Our Wine selection will be dynamic and embody not only excellent vintage but also simple “vin de table” wines for on-site consumption. We will also have in hopes in the future months have a section of the Osteria particularly on the lower level called The Du VinMarket that will comprise of wines, artisanal and seasonal beers for retail purchase to go.

The food will be comprises of a variety of small plates, great bread, International cheeses, bruschettas, charcuterie, olives, desserts and more to be shared with one another.

I hope to give an enjoyable sense of comfort, away from our daily hectic schedule; a throw back to some old rustic country living…where time stands still for Du Vin…

David M. Shott-Proprietor


Gori Cafe is located at 1113 V Street, NW. I’m sure I’ve mentioned it before but after paying $8 for a drink last night I had to share this happy hour with you again. It may not be the coolest place in the city but I’m really digging this deal. Think it’s big enough to host the next PoP happy hour (to welcome spring and plan the next PoP clean up)?


These condos are located at 2029 13th Street, NW:


View Larger Map

The flier says:

“New Zen inspired Condos in hot U St. location!!!! 1 bed/ 1 bath LARGE patio unit. Features included: high ceilings, hardwood floors, tons of windows, granite counter tops, breakfast bar, SS appliances, modern designed, sound system, walking closets patio. Bonus: parking availabe for sale. One block from Metro, Restaurants and Shops. Yes, FHA Aprroved.”

You can find more info and photos here.

Well the location of these condos are pretty amazing. Though this is the first time I’ve seen a converted rowhouse translate into 1 bedroom condos. Unit #2 is a 1 bed/1.5 bath going for $409,000 (with a $220 condo fee). And Unit #1 is also a 1 bed/1.5 bath going for $439,000 (with a $220 condo fee). What do you think of the units themselves? Either price sound reasonable?


We’ve noted most of these stores have closed. But I always keep my eyes peeled for paper to cover the windows because that means work is being done and it won’t be left vacant. So stay tuned for lots of development. Above of course is located just south of U St.

Paper just went up on the Swann Cleaners across from Black Cat on 14th.

Paper has also gone up at the other laundry near 14th and Q has paper up. Of course paper doesn’t guarantee that movement will be rapid but it is an encouraging first step.

And after the jump there is also movement at one spot on Connecticut Ave north of Dupont Circle. (more…)


Thanks to a reader for the heads up. When I took the above photo I actually ran into the new owner. The property was just purchased by Lock 7 Development. They will be building a 4 unit condo on this property located on 10th Street, NW just north of V. Here’s a rendering:

View larger image here – 10th Street Rendering

I’ll be sure to update with photos as the building develops. The owner expects it to be completed in roughly 6 months.


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