You will be missed Stetsons, you will be missed. Some history on the building at 1610 U St, NW here. RIP
417 E Capitol Street, SE
In happier news – Riverby Books is back!
“We’ll reopen on Saturday Oct. 31 at 10am (both for book buyers and trick-or-treaters). But if you happen to wander by before then, please feel free to stop in!”
920 H Street, NE
A reader reports:
“I was in Park’s Hardware on H St. NE on Saturday, and the owner said that they’re planning to close at the end of November. I know you had something back in August about the building being up for sale – presumably this means they have found a buyer. She blamed declining business on the Home Depot a couple of miles away (although the Home Depot has been there since ’02). I didn’t ask what was going to be coming in to the space after they close. I’ll miss having a hardware store in walking distance, as well as their cool sign.”
3314 11th St, NW
A reader reports:
“Every few years, readers would write you and ask “where is that great smell coming from on 11th and Lamont Street in Columbia Heights?” The answer of course was El Latino Bakery.
It saddens me to report that El Latino Bakery is no more. My source from the block said that rent was raised and so they decided it was a good time to move to a bigger space in Maryland. They even had to cut the bars and wall in the front to move the ovens out.”
This is incredibly sad, and inevitable news… It follows news of the closing of Arthur’s across the street. I look forward to learning who will take over the space and I believe there is a strong likelihood it will be something cool – but now is time to grieve. RIP that sweet, sweet smell.
1610 U Street, NW
Dean Clark tweets us:
“@PoPville Was at Stetson’s last night. Told the sale went through and they are closing end of September October. No word on replacement.”
Back in June we posted the devastating news, for some, that Stetson’s was for sale. At that time some protested vociferously that this was simply not true and I was told by many, many people on twitter that I was idiot (and worse.) As I said originally I love Stetson’s. I and my friends spent much of our 20s here – with nothing but fond memories, from what I can remember. It genuinely pains me to pass on news of the sale. There is now a leasing flyer from Douglas Development:
Updates when an exact closing date is known. All I can say is – I am sad.
Park’s Hardware is located at 920 H Street Northeast. The listing says:
“Great redevelopment opportunity on H Street; 4,600 square feet of retail space in the middle of the thriving H Street Corridor. Zoned C2A with ‘H Street Overlay’. High Ceilings, full lower level. Wide street frontage Prime area for H Street Retail District. Right across from Ben’s Chili and Rappaport Shopping Center. Tax ID 0933//0803 + 0933//0057 (total lot size 2675 sf)”
It’s going for a cool $2,500,000.
11 Dupont Circle, NW
A reader reports:
“Just went to the Books-a-Million in Dupont and everything is discounted, all sales are final, and the salespeople confirmed that July 18 would be their last day. I always hate to see a bookstore close, but if it had to be one I’m glad it wasn’t Kramerbooks.”
1610 U Street, NW
Damn it! I spent a good part of 20s in Stetson’s. Ach, I think I’m becoming that old guy…
The listing says:
“Great opportunity for a restaurant on U Street. The property offers two floors of bar and restaurant space, rear patio, 24 tap line system and a lower level with a walk-in refrigerator, reach-in freezer, and ample storage. The business (Stetson’s Bar), Class C Tavern license, inventory and owned fixtures including two HD projectors convey. Zoned C-2-A. Appointment only. 24 hour notice required.”
It’s going for $2,400,000. Well, when in Rome, I’m off to set up a kickstarter page! For $50 you will get an ice cold 12oz Budweiser. For $500 you will get a 12oz Budweiser and a shot of your choice.
Oof, I’m so sad.
Photo of 2609 24th St, NW, by Connecticut and Calvert, around the corner from Open City via Murphy’s
A couple weeks ago, after Duffy’s closed, we talked about the best regular bars left in DC – Murphy’s was number 10 on my list. Ugh.
A couple readers send the sad word:
“I heard from the management of Murphy’s of DC (2609 24th St NW) that the establishment will permanently close this Sunday, November 23rd, 2014 after last call. Its lease was not renewed, and in its place is supposed to be a fine dining Italian restaurant, no additional details available right now. Enjoy the fireplace and neighborhood vibe while you can. 30+ years of memories for some who worked there from around the time it opened.”
I’ve called to confirm and it’s true – they’ll be closing after last call on Sunday because they weren’t able to renew their lease. Updates on the Italian restaurant when/if more info is known.
For those not familiar, Murphy’s website says:
Since the day we first opened our doors on March 17th 1986, Murphy’s® of D.C. has been the home of Irish hospitality in the nation’s capital. Our extensive menu specializing in delicious pub fare coupled with the finest beverages has been pleasing Washingtonians and visitors to our city alike for over twenty-three years.
Our guests have a choice of seating, ranging from our comfortable upholstered window seat booths, wooden tables as well as stools at our long traditional solid wood bar. A year round seating option is our newly renovated and spacious sidewalk patio. Though most popular in D.C.’s warmest months, the awning and heating system ensure our guests comfort during our city’s cooler months also. During winter months our guests enjoy the three sided wood burning fireplace inside. Whether warming your hands beneath the mantle adorned with an antique forge bellows, or basking in the glow of the flames from across the pub, the fireplace is a gathering spot and a symbol of fáilte, the Irish word for welcome.
Murphy’s® of D.C. showcases the best in live Irish entertainment. Whether playing traditional Irish pub songs or more contemporary rock and folk, our musicians all make sure the crowd has fun. From almost any spot inside the pub guests are treated to sporting events and news reports on one of our large flat screen televisions.
Our friendly and attentive staff will be glad you stopped by. Stay for the craic and raise a toast with us: Slainte! to your very good health!
3211 Mt Pleasant St, NW
@CraigPlazure tweeted us the sad update last night:
Back in March we first learned Adam Express intended to close but those plans fell through when a buyer backed out. For whatever the reason the closure seems permanent now so let’s wish the Baes a peaceful and happy retirement:
Mr. and Mrs. Bae previously biding farewell
