Itching to hit up the newest restaurant and retail additions to Washington? From an oyster bar to a high-end grocery store, read on to see the newest destinations to open their doors around town.
Union District Oyster Bar & Lounge
First, Union District Oyster Bar & Lounge is now open in the Union Market area, 501 Morse St. NE. The upscale spot offers a raw bar of oysters, crab, lobster and more. Other seafood options include appetizers like fried calamari with Thai chili sauce and main dishes like jerk Chilean sea bass. There are also pasta, pizza and meat options.
Before, during or after your meal, sip on one of its 300 whiskeys, 90 wine varietals or handcrafted cocktails.
Whole Foods Market
Next, Whole Foods Market has opened up shop at 101 H St. SE in Capitol Hill. The Amazon-fueled grocery option boasts a self-serve cold-pressed juice station, build-your-own açaí bowls, a huge salad and olive bar, and an outdoor patio. Discounts on produce, meat and other items are available for Prime members.
There's also a wine bar and a Philly Wing Fry eatery from "Top Chef" alum Kwame Onwuachi.
Nama Sushi Bar
New at 465 K St. NW in Mount Vernon Square is Nama Sushi Bar. Here you'll find high-end maki rolls, nigiri and sashimi, and small plates like kobe sliders and torched salmon with jalapeño soy. There's a selection of sake and Japanese beer, plus cocktails based on Japanese whisky.
It's all in a sophisticated space located next to Italian spot Alta Strada, which is also owned by chef Michael Schlow.
The Village Cafe
The Village Cafe is another addition to the Union Market area and is located at 1272 Fifth St. NE. It offers a wide selection of coffee drinks and breakfast items like parfaits, a lox bagel and avocado toast. There is also heartier fare such as a roasted turkey club on ciabatta and a steak and cheese sandwich.
What makes the spot unique is its commitment to showcasing products from "underserved, aspiring and budding entrepreneurs," per its website. Look for coffee from D.C.-based Southeastern Roastery and greens from DC UrbanGreens.
Reverie
Finally, Reverie is a New American spot that opened recently at 3201 Cherry Hill Lane in Georgetown. It's from chef Johnny Spero, who has extensive experience on the local scene, having worked at Minibar, Toki Underground and Rogue 24.
The restaurant features a fine dining menu, with ingredients like wild allspice, caviar and dried scallops, plus specialty cocktails and French wines. However, Spero told Washington City Paper that he was eager to list a burger among the options. His resembles a Midwestern "smashburger" and is topped with miso-pickled cucumbers, smoked special sauce and cheddar.
