This is a regularly updated compilation of newly announced closures for restaurants and bars in the D.C. area. Updated monthly, this list aims to keep our readers informed. If we missed a closure, please reach out to us.
U Street: Dukem, an iconic Ethiopian restaurant that transformed from a carryout spot to a full-service dining institution over its impressive 31-year history on a bustling corner of U Street NW, has announced that it will be closing its doors on Saturday, November 7. For many loyal customers, the restaurant was a go-to destination for their beloved vegetable-filled sambusa pastries, spicy fava beans (a popular choice for breakfast), flavorful doro wat chicken stew, and refreshing mango juice. The family shared on Instagram that the closure decision was made with great care, stating, “What began as our [late] father Tefera Zewdie’s dream grew into a landmark and gathering place.” On many evenings, Dukem emanated a vibrant atmosphere reminiscent of a late-night club, featuring live Ethiopian music and a full bar. The family-run establishment received a notable boost when TikTok food influencer Keith Lee visited the D.C. location in 2024, drawing significant attention. A second branch is located in Baltimore. 1114-1118 U Street NW
CityCenter: The acai bowl and smoothie restaurant Fruitive shuttered its 11-year location in CityCenter DC on Wednesday, September 30, choosing to focus its resources on a larger establishment in Penn Quarter, where it will consolidate both its restaurant and production operations under one roof on Pennsylvania Avenue NW. 1094 Palmer Alley NW
Dupont: The local burrito bar Sol Mexican Grill has closed its 19th Street NW spot permanently, as confirmed by an employee via phone to Eater this week. However, its flagship location on H Street and the Mt. Vernon Triangle outlet remain in operation. 1200 19th Street NW
Navy Yard: TaKorean, a D.C. taco counter known for its combination of Korean and Latin flavors, has closed its doors after a 12-year tenure near Nationals Park. Fortunately, its stall at Union Market remains in business. 1212 4th Street SE
Northern Virginia: Chip City Cookies has exited the Virginia market, closing its three locations in Tysons Corner, Clarendon, and Shirlington this past September. Originally founded in Astoria, Queens, in 2017, Chip City had recently expanded up and down the East Coast, backed by a substantial $10 million investment from Shake Shack founder Danny Meyer. The bakery is renowned for its wide array of flavors such as s’mores, Nutella sea salt, peanut butter and jelly, lemon berry, and blueberry cheesecake. Currently, Virginia is no longer listed on the company’s website, along with closures in Connecticut. Chip City still operates approximately two dozen locations across three states. Multiple locations
Palisades: The beloved Japanese restaurant Kotobuki has permanently closed as of Saturday, September 26, after a commendable 22 years of serving the community. This upper Northwest dining spot was particularly known for its sushi, sashimi, and kamameshi dishes. A sign placed on its door announced, “It is with a heavy heart that we announce Kotobuki will be permanently closing.” 4822 MacArthur Boulevard NW
Tenleytown: Tenley Provisions, which replaced the long-standing Steak n Eggs and opened its doors in June with three different dining concepts, recently lost one of its establishments. Bistro Metzger, an upscale comfort food venue managed by a former chef from Wolfgang Puck’s team, has reportedly closed as of September, while El Jefe Woodfired Pizza and the fast-casual crepe café Sofie’s continue to operate. 4700 Wisconsin Avenue NW
Union Market: The family-owned Neopol Smokery, a well-loved fixture at Union Market for 14 years, has made the surprise announcement of its closure as of Wednesday, September 30. Known for its takeout offerings, especially the popular house-smoked salmon BLT featuring bacon and honey dijon dressing on sunflower flaxseed bread, Neopol’s menu also included various sandwiches filled with whitefish or shrimp salad. Although the closures at Union Market signifies the end of its D.C. presence, the brand continues to operate its two Baltimore locations at Belvedere Square and its production kitchen. Neopol previously had a short-lived Georgetown location off Grace Street. 1309 5th Street NE
Woodley Park: The recently opened Tavern 18 closed its doors this month after operating for just about a year, as reported by Popville. The American-style bar, famous for its wings, crab fries, and happy hour specials, faced eviction due to unpaid rent. Previously, the space had been home to Macintyre’s Pub and Taste of India. 2621 Connecticut Avenue NW
