A long-awaited tribute to a local advocate for the LGBTQ+ community finally holds its place in the heart of Washington, D.C. Installed on May 24 and standing prominently in front of Annie’s Paramount Steak House on 17th Street NW, a new street sign reads "Annie’s Way." This honor commemorates restaurateur Annie Kaylor, whose contributions to the LGBTQ+ community echo through the streets of the capital. As reported by NBC Washington, the recognition comes over a decade after the D.C. Council and former Mayor Vincent Gray approved the measure.
Amidst the celebrations, the story of the sign is marked by delay, having been approved more than 10 years prior and caught in bureaucratic limbo due to Annie’s moving its location by a block-and-a-half. The respected establishment, serving as a cornerstone to Washington, D.C.’s LGBTQ+ community for over 75 years, saw its staff eagerly anticipating the commemorative signage that acknowledges Kaylor’s legacy. The staff of the restaurant, having waited so long, has welcomed the new street sign with great affection and pride, according to the same NBC Washington coverage.
The unveiling of the 'Annie's Way' sign aligns with the heritage and impact of Annie's Paramount Steak House. Originally founded by George Katinas in 1948, the establishment was more than a restaurant—it became a haven for the city's LGBTQ+ individuals, largely due to Annie's open and accepting nature. “Annie was the fun one. She was kind of our pouring drinks and making a lot of friends and she really was the original ally in D.C. to so many in the LGBTQ community,” shared Georgia Katinas, the general manager of Annie’s Paramount Steak House and Annie’s great niece, in a recent DC News Now interview.
Following her passing in 2013, the delay that ensued after Mayor Vincent Gray's prior approval had the community waiting. The legislation that facilitated the sign's placement at the steakhouse's current address was only passed this spring. Celebrated during Pride Month, the symbolism of the event resonated beyond mere metal and paint. "It’s incredible. It’s a real reminder that she’ll always be part of 17th Street and her legacy will live on," said Georgia Katinas in a sentiment, echoing throughout the community during a time of remembrance and honor, as quoted by DC News Now.
