Interested in finding out about the freshest new spots in Washington? From a cosmetics shop to a ping pong bar, read on for a list of the newest hot spots to open recently.
The Berliner
3401 Water St. NW, Georgetown
The Berliner is a German restaurant and beer hall.
Occupying the former Malmaison space, it serves food inspired by Berlin street fare, like bratwurst, kofte kebabs, pretzels and falafel, plus lots of beer. Both German imports and domestic craft beer are available from two dozen taps. There are also cocktails and wine.
The Berliner has gotten an enthusiastic response thus far, with a five-star rating out of three reviews on Yelp.
William L., who was among the first Yelpers to review the new spot on Jan. 2, wrote, "Dozens of beers in steins, incredible brats, sausages, wursts, etc. They have several types of mustards, relishes and ketchups to top your food, as well as great appetizers like loaded fries and the classic pretzel. I'm excited for warmer weather when they can hopefully open their garage doors and create a lively atmosphere."
And Les W. wrote, "This restaurant just opened, but I hope it stays here for a long time. We tried it last night and the sausages were superb, the sides great and they have an excellent draft beer selection."
Head on over to check it out: The Berliner is open from 5–11 p.m. on Tuesday-Saturday, and 5–10 p.m. on Sunday. (It's closed on Monday.)
The Brown Beauty Co-Op
1365 Connecticut Ave. NW, Suite 100, Dupont Circle
The Brown Beauty Co-Op is a beauty and cosmetics shop.
The boutique is the project of two local entrepreneurs who have designed skin and hair products for women of color. You can find their products—under the names Marjani and Product Junkie—along with other products from other black-owned businesses at this new retail outlet. Appointments are also available to get a makeover and beauty tips.
It's getting positive feedback from its clientele so far, with a five-star rating out of three Yelp reviews.
Yelper Myra R., who reviewed it on Dec. 18, wrote, "[The owner] was pleasant, very knowledgeable and welcoming. She helped me locate a few items I had picked out online, but went to the store to purchase in person. I was so excited to see and touch a real palette in a real store meant for me."
Natalie S. noted, "It's like a Sephora for brown girls, a place where your hair and skin is celebrated and catered to from wall to wall and floor to ceiling! Come here to try out some non-toxic, clean beauty brands (from makeup to deodorant) for the melanated diva."
It's open from 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Monday-Saturday, and 11 a.m.–6 p.m. on Sunday.
SPIN Washington DC
1332 F St. NW
Finally, SPIN Washington DC is a new cocktail and ping pong bar.
Part of a small nationwide chain, SPIN offers craft beer, wine and classic and signature cocktails, like The Don, which combines both tequila and mezcal with Ancho Reyes, Cointreau, blood orange, lime and agave. There's a small menu with slightly-elevated pub food, like house fries with za'atar, flatbreads and burgers made with grass-fed beef.
But the real draw for many will be the ping pong. Tables are set up like billiard tables in a pool hall and are available to rent. There are also regularly-scheduled tournaments and other events, as well as a nine-week league.
With five stars out of 10 reviews on Yelp, it's off to a strong start.
Jessica L., who reviewed it on Dec. 31, wrote, "So much fun. Found this place completely by accident and we decided to give it a try. Wide variety of drinks and snacks. Great entertainment with friends. Got my heart rate up a little, too. We called ahead. There was no wait so we got a table easily."
And Sarah M. said, "What a clever concept and an amazing space! To top it off, the service was fantastic. Everyone was so friendly and nice from the moment we entered and our server was great! "
The spot is open from 4–11 p.m. Monday-Wednesday, 4 p.m.–midnight on Thursday, noon–2 a.m. on Friday and Saturday, and noon–8 p.m. on Sunday.
