
14th and Monroe Street, NW
When we first broke the scuttlebutt that a Taco Bell Cantina was coming to Columbia Heights, a number of readers asked for an update on the Iron Age Korean Steak House. I’m happy to report that they are now hiring: (more…)

14th and Monroe Street, NW
When we first broke the scuttlebutt that a Taco Bell Cantina was coming to Columbia Heights, a number of readers asked for an update on the Iron Age Korean Steak House. I’m happy to report that they are now hiring: (more…)

1001 4th Street, SW
Thanks to a reader for sending: “Is a new David Chang restaurant coming to SW? Not positive it’s momofuku but the name makes it seem like it may be.”
Hmm, I don’t think there is a Chang connection – while the liquor license placard posted for MOMO says:
“A new Retailer’s Class C Restaurant with a seating capacity of 74 and Total Occupancy Load of 80.”
The building’s website in SW has a teaser with the full name, Momo Chicken and Grill (see photo below.)
Momo Chicken & Grill’s Facebook for their Bethesda location says:
“MoMo is the place where Korean Fried Chicken is seasoned with Jazz Music. With its rustic design that combines musical antiques and industrial elements from 19th century, Momo will comfort you with soul food, drink and music.”

From a press release:
“Gogi Yogi, from the team behind Duke’s Grocery and Duke’s Counter, will be the first Korean restaurant in Washington where food is cooked on an open-air grill embedded in each dining table. The new restaurant and bar opens later this week at 1921 8th Street NW.

The menu begins with an assortment of shared appetizers from the kitchen, then focuses on meats, poultry, pork and seafood to be grilled at the tables. Special attention is paid to Banchan, the assortment of Korean appetizers served with the meal. The bar program features 12 varieties of Soju and Korean-inspired cocktails, alongside both Korean and local beers. “We have some great options to enjoy and the menu, just like at Duke’s, is going to always evolve. Beyond staples like Bulgogi and Galbi, there is a lot more of Korean fare to explore,” said Daniel Kramer, Managing Partner. (more…)

14th and Monroe Street, NW
This is the former Jenkins BBQ space (forever Ruby Tuesday in my heart) that closed back in early January.
Thanks to all who messaged about the big news from Washingtonian last week:
“Iron Age is known for its affordable all-you-can-eat menus ($20-to-$25 per person in the Washington suburbs) and industrial red-and-black decor. DC diners can expect the same, though some locations have slight menu variations. The Columbia Heights spot, located at 3365 14th St., NW, will likely fit around 35 tables.”

1805 18th Street, NW
Last week I mentioned that the original Mandu space gutted by fire nears reopening as Anju, Korean Restaurant and Pub. The liquor license placard is calling for longer hours Sunday through Thursday 11:30am – 1:00am, Friday and Saturday 11:30am – 2am. Which is good. But still looks like a bit of a ways to go before opening: (more…)

1730 Connecticut Ave, NW
Lots of love for south Dupont lately, now some good news for the north side. We learned My Way had closed a couple months ago and now we know the replacement – Bibim Bap. Stay tuned for an opening date:


1346 T Street, NW
From an email:
“WHAT: Compass Rose Bar & Kitchen will transform into a bustling Korean Night Market on Thursday, May 21st for an evening of fun street food, inventive cocktails and karaoke. Inspired by her recent travels to Korea, Owner Rose Previte tapped Chef Danny Lee of Mandu and Chef Jesse Miller of Bar Pilar and Café Saint-Ex to join Chef Sam Molavi of Compass Rose in preparing a diverse menu of Korean street foods, including Dduk Bok Gi (spicy rice cakes), Galbi (barbecue short ribs) and Bibim Guksoo (chilled somyun noodles rubbed with diced kimchi, soy, and sesame oil).
The Korean Night Market will feature live cooking stations, as well as passed appetizers and specialty cocktails.
WHEN: Thursday, May 21, 2015 from 7 – 10 p.m.
WHERE: Compass Rose Bar & Kitchen
Tickets are priced at $20 per person, inclusive of food, entertainment, tax and gratuity. Tickets can be purchased via [email protected]. Compass Rose will offer a cash bar for Korean beer and cocktails.”

1400 I Street, NW
A reader reports:
“Lighter Cafe by McPherson metro closed. Restaurant is empty but signage still up. Any intel?”
Anyone know when they closed? Any fans?

325 Morse St, NE
Thanks to a reader for the heads up on this great hidden gem. YoonHa’s is not fancy but it has two more important traits – it is delicious and it is cheap. It is located at 325 Morse St, NE in the Capital City Market (where Litteri’s is located) very close to the NoMa metro:
They are open from 5am – 3pm from Monday thru Saturday.

A look at the menu after the jump. (more…)

Lighter Asian restaurant is located at 1400 I Street NW by McPherson Square. I was most intrigued by the signs – what is Bulgogi?:

And what is Bibim Bap?:

Any fans out there?