end of an era

End of an Era – Domku Closing in Petworth

By Prince Of Petworth

Domku
821 Upshur Street, NW

From a press release:

“Domku Closing After Over A Decade

Rising Real Estate Prices are Pushing Petworth Pioneer Out

After nearly 12 years in business Slavic-Scandanavian inspired Domku, located in Petworth, will close their doors at the end of June. A dramatic rent increase is forcing owner, Kera Carpenter to leave the neighborhood she helped create. Carpenter’s hand was forced by a 66% rent increase on the new lease.

Carpenter opened Domku in January 2005 as an effort to bring vitality to the Petworth neighborhood where she had bought a home a few years before. “When deciding where I wanted to open a business, making a contribution to my own neighborhood was a big factor. I knew it would be more difficult than going to an already establish area. I don’t regret that decision, but now now there is only so much I can do.” (more…)

“La Fourchette has been sold..last day May 31st or June 15th”?

By Prince Of Petworth

la-fourchette
2429 18th Street, NW

At the risk of repeating myself – looks like we have another end of an era for Adams Morgan. In no particular recent order – Millie & Al’s, Mixtec, Pasta Mia, Meskerem, Pharmacy Bar, Toledo Lounge, Crumbs & Coffee, Napoleon Bistro, Locolat, Cashion’s Eat Place and today we add La Fourchette to the mix. Back in September 2014 we first learned La Fourchette was for sale. The price was reduced to $2.6 million in October 2015. Now a reader reports the building has sold:

“La Fourchette has been sold. Apparently to someone who wants to turn it into a Mexican restaurant. last day of operation will be either May 31 (according to Pierre’s wife) or June 15, according to Pierre.”

Updates as more info is learned on an exact closing date and potential replacements.

No longer active but before it came down La Fourchette’s website said:

“Located in the trendy district of Adams Morgan, the longest standing Cafe Restaurant La Fourchette offers its guest an opportunity to experience fine French Cuisine. Since 1978 Chef Pierre Chauvet and hostess Jacqueline Chauvet have been serving guest the authentic taste of France in the heart of Adams Morgan.

La Fourchette opened its doors, after the midst of controversy of riots in Adams Morgan. The first restaurant come back during those hard times, and still we stand 34 years later. Owner and Chef Pierre Chauvet and his wife Jacqueline made the move from La Rochelle, France to build what is the best French Restaurant in Adams Morgan.”

Best DC Supermarket Closing on U Street

By Prince Of Petworth

IMG_4954
1507 U Street, NW

A reader reports:

“I was by Best Super Market (located on U Street between 15th and 16th). They are going out of business next month and have their groceries 50% off and beer/wine 30% off.”

I stopped in yesterday too and was told they’ll be closing next month or when the groceries run out. Another big “end of an era” for U Street. Back in 2011 we spoke about what retail U Street was missing – what do you think could/should fill this square footage today?

IMG_4955

Smith & Wollensky closes Downtown

By Prince Of Petworth

IMG_3917
1112 19th Street, NW

19th Street’s ups and downs continues with word of Smith & Wollensky closing. Thanks to all who sent word. A reader writes over the weekend: “re-confirmed now, sign on door “closed permanently”. So, what theme from the National Restaurant Group would you like to see here… Seriously, where’s your favorite spot for steak?

Duffy Leaving Duffy’s April 6th

By Prince Of Petworth

duffy
2106 Vermont Ave, NW

From Duffy:

“My Last night at Duffy’s will be Wednesday April 6th. Which is fitting as it also happens to be our Season Opening Nats Viewing Party.

The Nats are on at 7pm and there’s no way I’d rather spend my last night here than hanging out at Duffy’s watching Nats baseball with all of you. So come on by and share a brew or two!

I’m very excited and Happy that we were able to bring Duffy’s back and am grateful to Casey for the opportunity to make it happen and I will be back to visit often. I have thoroughly enjoyed these last 6 months. And I’m so happy that Duffy’s is here to stay.

All my recipes including the wing sauce will remain the same…so you don’t have to worry about losing those great wings

I am very grateful and really overwhelmed by the support all of you have given Duffy’s and myself. ”

‘Twas a bit of a roller coaster ride at times but there is no doubt Duffy has left his mark on U Street/Shaw/DC. Farewell Andy. Enjoy the sun. And go Nats!!

Poste closing May 31st, Patio and Lunch Finish April 25th

By Prince Of Petworth

poste
555 8th Street, NW

From Poste Brasserie:

“It’s true! Swing by to say your goodbyes, because we [sadly] will be closing our doors on May 31st!”

The Washington Post reported:

“Poste Moderne Brasserie first opened in the Hotel Monaco in Penn Quarter in 2002, housed in the former mail sorting room of a 19th-century post office. It became one of D.C.’s favorite outdoor spots, with a courtyard known for its fire pits and garden…The patio will close April 25, the same day Poste will cease serving weekday lunch.”

Updates when more info about the replacement is released.

It Continues… Science Club Closing on 19th Street

By Prince Of Petworth

science club
1136 19th Street, NW

First we heard about Sophie’s Cuban and now sad news for next door neighbor Science Club. A reader reports Science Club owner Steve Maguire posted on facebook:

“Cannot even begin to describe the love I have for every kind soul that contributed to this place. Simply speechless. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

“And a link to this tune”:

“No other details – just a 100+ comments thanking him for ten years of a great bar! He seems positive in the comments and owns the bar outright, so not sure why this seems so sudden…kind of weird. Hope he comes back with another space!”

Ed. Note: Science Club was one of the coolest spots new spots in the District when they first opened. Can’t believe that was 10 years ago. They will be missed by many.

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