Back in Oct. 2011 we spoke about El Sol Mexican restaurant closing at 1930 9th St, NW (just south of U St.) I had noticed construction for the last few months but they’ve recently applied for a liquor license which says it’ll become a:

“New Tavern with an occupancy load of 122. Requesting an Entertainment Endorsement to include dancing and cover charge.”

More info as it becomes available.

Great news for Standard fans (14th and S St, NW.) I can’t believe it’s almost Spring already.

I recently begged Bar Pilar to hurry up with their construction at 1833 14th St, NW. Sorta good news:

Thank you!

Back in June 2010 we learned of plans for a new tavern and bistro called 6th Engine coming to 438 Massachusetts Ave, NW. Thanks to a reader for sending this awesome update with very promising photos. Can’t wait to see it in person!

Thanks to a reader for sending a tweet from ANC5C03 commissioner Hugh Youngblood:

“Engine Company 12 team withdraws #ABRA application; seeking new operator. Anyone interested in a #BloomingdaleDC restaurant opportunity?”

Engine Co 12 Firehouse is located at 1626 North Capitol Street, NW. We last spoke about it in May 2011 when we learned of the delayed opening. We also spoke about it briefly when we learned Shaw’s Tavern was denied a liquor license.

So, think a new restaurant operator will jump at the chance?

@DiningBisnow tweeted some very interesting news last night:

“The very talented @mixtressdc is leaving @PS7sdc, but she tells us she’s got a new “cocktail deli” in the works at 6th and Penn SE”

I’m wondering if 6th and Penn Ave, SE is referring to the former location of Ba Bay which closed in Nov. ’11 at 633 Pennsylvania Ave, SE? Whether it’s that location or another nearby – I can’t wait to learn more about at “cocktail deli”.

Back in Dec. ’11 we took an early look at Boundary Road coming to 414 H St, NE. I stopped back earlier this week to see how they were progressing:

Awesome! While we already got a sneak peek of their food menu I’m psyched to now be able to give a sneak peek of their beverage menu:

Boundary Road Beverage Menu

Like the dining menu, the beverage menu will also be changing with the seasons. How does this one sound?

If all goes well they should be opening very soon. I’ll update with an exact date when it’s announced. In the meantime, after the jump, you can see a few more photos of how the space is looking.

Thanks to a reader for sending an update from the Ledroit Park Listserv. We learned initial details about the plans for All Souls after speaking with owner David Batista on Jan. 12th. All Souls hopes to come to the vacant space at 725 T St, NW.

Details in the Voluntary Agreement from All Souls’ lawyer via Commissioner Moss:

-to allay concerns about the exposure of schoolchildren to the business, the application would be amended such that the establishment would not open until 5 p.m., at the earliest

-the patio will be relocated such that it is at least 10 feet from the property line of the closest neighbor north of the property

-to ameliorate potential noise from the patio, applicant shall erect a wall perpendicular to the street, on the north side of the patio seating area. The wall will incorporate materials that are sound absorbent, subject to approval of the public space committee

-Patio service shall cease, and all patrons off the patio at 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and midnight Friday and Saturday

-No recyclables shall be emptied after midnight

In response to a question on the listserv Commissioner Moss answers:

The commission supports the compromise however we are suggesting additional provisions no music on the patio no recyclables after 10 pm patio seating in front of business not on the side signage inside establishment informing residents they are in a residential neighborhood, patio hours 10pm Sun – Thurs 11pm Fri Sat I did not state our position because provisions needed to be discussed with residents and the commission.

Mediation hearing just completed. Residents and Commission (not Myla) provided a counter offer to applicants provisions. Applicant will review provisions proposed by residents and the Commission. Applicant will respond by Monday Feb. 6, 2012.

More info as it becomes available.

Update 1pm from Commisioner Moss:

the applicant has agreed to open @5pm, which is after schoolhours. The applicant is considering the ANC’s counter offer. The following is being considered by the applicant:

Opening @ 5pm

Patio seatng in front and not on the side of establishment

Close of patio seating 10 pm Sun -Thurs and 11pm Fri -Sat

No music on the patio

No recyclables shall be emptied after 10 pm

There will be a status hearing on Feb. 8 @ 9:30 pm the purpose of the status hearing will be to report the result of the 1/31/12 mediation hearing.

Back in Oct. 2011 we noted that a serious roof deck was coming to the Brixton at 9th and U St, NW. A reader writes:

“I have been glad to see the building directly across U St from Nellie’s being fixed up with what looks like a new roof deck. I noticed this morning that sometime this past weekend their faux-stone façade was painted white. I don’t know why they didn’t just take that ugly stuff off, but it is what it is.”

I always get tons of emails asking about the retail space at 2013 14th St, NW (just north of U St.) This used to be the Red Lounge Bar and Grill but the first floor space has been closed for ages. I just noticed that the paper has finally come off the windows:

Anyone stop by or know if they’ve officially reopened?