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Georgetown Bars Now and Then

Have you ever heard the rumors of Georgetown’s bustling nightlife and bar scene in the 1980’s, 1990’s and early 2000’s? Have you wondered where these bars went? Or have you accepted the fact that M Street is an eerily too similar replica of your hometown mall? Here at 4E we asked these questions and did the research into Georgetown’s bar history, and no this is not a shameless plug for my final research project. But if it was, I would suggest that you check out this website to learn more. So if finals have you feeling down, take a walk with 4E down memory lane and peer into the past with our Georgetown Bars Now and Then. 

3401 M St NW, Washington, DC 20007

Then: Poseurs

Now: The Running Company

This bar created Georgetown’s punk rock scene. It was the first bar in Georgetown that integrated music videos into the bar! It closed in 1989 and is now the Running Company. However, Poseurs loyal followers hosted a 30-year reunion, so check out their event on Facebook Event.

3477 M Street, NW Washington D.C. 

Then: The Cellar Door

Now: For rent

This building used to house The Cellar Door, a live music club that played host to famous artists such as Jimmy Buffet, Patti Smith, Carole King and many more from 1965-1981. Since then the location has been a sandwich shop but currently remains for rent.

3295 M St NW, Washington, DC 20007

Then:  Rhino

Now: Club Monaco

This location has been a bar since 1952 when it was first the Shamrock. It transitioned to Winston’s Pumphouse in 1972, and then in 1996 it became Rhino–a popular if not beloved Georgetown University bar. It was closed in 2015 due to high rent and is now Club Monaco, a clothing store.

3259 M St NW, Washington, DC 20007

Then: Crazy Horse

Now: Coach

Now a Coach retail store, Crazy Horse was a local bar popular with both Georgetown students and young adults from the DMV area.

1238 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007

Then: Carriage House, followed by Tramps

Now: Zara

This location was first the Carriage House, a dining room frequented by many important social and political figures of the District. Then it was taken over by the famous disco club Tramps, run by Washington Playboy Mike O’Harro. This establishment was a left over remanent of the 1970s disco scene. Unfortunately, in 1982 it stopped “Staying Alive” and closed its doors. It is currently a Zara clothing store.

1218 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007

Then: The Third Edition

Now: El Centro

The Third Edition was a Georgetown neighborhood staple, serving students, visitors and the neighborhood from 1969 to 2013. It even got a moment of Hollywood fame as the beloved St. Elmo’s Fire bar in the 1980’s classic “St. Elmo’s Fire” Now it is an upscale Mexican restaurant called El Centro.

3104 M St NW, Washington, DC 20007

Then: Mr. Smiths

Now: Fine Retailer

Mr. Smiths was arguably the second oldest continuing bar in the Georgetown neighborhood as it was founded in 1962. In 2014 it was forced to move from its M Street location to K Street, where it replaced longstanding bar Chadwicks due to rising rents. Now, it’s location is filled in with “Fine Retailer” (whatever that means).

3111 K St NW, Washington, DC 20007

Then: Bayou

Now: AMC Theatre

Currently the AMC Theatre, the Bayou was the go-to music scene from 1953 to 1998. Check out this website to learn more!

3003 M St NW, Washington, DC 20007

Then: Garret’s Railroad Tavern

Now: I-Thai

Garrett’s Restaurant and Railroad Tavern shut its doors for the last time on a Monday in 1979. It was described as “not simply another restaurant closing but rather the loss of a popular community hangout loved and frequented by locals, students, employees, and tourists.” It has since been replaced with a Thai restaurant. Here is another article discussing Garret’s closing.

1206 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007

Then: Champions

Now: The Sovereign

Champions closed their doors in 2002. It was a dubbed “the original sports bar” and was a favorite with the Georgetown student body, visiting college students, tourists and residents of the DMV area. The bar was bought and converted into an upscale Belgium restaurant called The Sovereign.

Check out the website Booze to Bougie to learn more:

Photos/gifs: trophyhomes.com, images.google.com, boozetobougie.wordpress.com

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Health Code Violations Georgetown Students Have Ignored

We’ve heard the rumors. We’ve seen the health code signs. But for all our favorite Georgetown restaurants, students are very much willing to forgive and forget their health code violations. To commemorate our most notorious health code offenders, 4E has rounded up all our favorite food establishments and their health code violations! We also realistically understand you’ll read this article and then go grab a bite to eat. See you there!

1. Dean and DeLuca, 2017

Not the first time its been closed for rodent infestation. But then again who in Georgetown can escape the rodent infestation?

https://wjla.com/news/local/dc-dept-of-health-closes-dean-deluca-in-georgetown-due-to-reported-rodent-infestation

2. Sweetgreen, 2013

Closed for “six critical violations of food code regulations, including an inaccessible hand-washing sink, a broken refrigerator, fruit flies and an expired business license.” Rough.

https://www.thehoya.com/sweetgreen-reopens-after-food-code-violations/

3. Mai Thai, 2017

Closed for apparent “drainage issues in the kitchen during maintenance work,” and mold in the ice machines. But real question how does their food come so fast???

https://www.washingtonian.com/2017/02/10/mai-thai-in-georgetown-closed-by-the-dc-health-department/

4. Whole Foods, 2017

Closed for violating “the District of Columbia food code regulations, which presents an imminent health hazard to the public.” But the only real hazard to our health is Whole Foods prices.

https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/Glover-Park-Whole-Foods-Closed-for-Food-Code-Violations-413385753.html

5. Booeymongers, 2013

Closed for unclean food preparation, “mold on the ice machine and employees failing to use gloves during food preparation.” But let’s be honest: Most of us come for something that doesn’t need preparation and comes straight from a tap.

https://www.thehoya.com/after-2013-violations-local-eateries-adjust/

6. Wingos, 2012

Closed for violation of “improper holding temperatures, lack of proper date labels and improper food separation.” I mean, most of us eat Wingo’s at improper temperatures, with unknown dates, and no separation…it’s called the next morning.

https://www.thehoya.com/after-2013-violations-local-eateries-adjust/

7. Johnny Rockets, 2007

According to a health department report, health inspectors discovered “evidence of recent rodent activity,” including “gnawed hamburger buns.” The report said that improper disposal of trash and food debris had caused the rat infestation. The department closed the restaurant…” Maybe just get a milkshake?

https://www.thehoya.com/doh-shuts-down-johnny-rockets-for-health-violations/

8. Chipotle

I think we all ignored the Chipotle E. coli outbreak and we lined up for our burrito bowls the day they reopened. Just saying.

https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/to-your-health/wp/2015/11/02/chipotle-closes-43-restaurants-following-e-coli-outbreak/?utm_term=.ca6e3b1a7c89

9. Epicurean, 2009

Who knew our favorite late night eater was up to so much? I guess we were all a little too “busy” *cough* to notice. Here are Epi’s violations:

  • Food was not properly “segregated, separated, [or] protected.” At the sushi station, eggs were stored in a way where they might contaminate other foods.
  • The restaurant was cited for unclean and unsanitized food contact surfaces.
  • The restaurant’s food marking and disposal methods were cited.
  • Food and non-critical surfaces were not properly maintained. The restaurant was cited for improper “dishware washing sanitation, and frequency methods,” which includes silverware. The final rinse temperature of the dishwasher was not hot enough.
  • Hot and cold foods were stored at improper temperatures.
  • There was no consumer food advisory for raw or under-cooked food displayed at the sushi bar or on menus

https://blog.georgetownvoice.com/2010/03/15/epicurean-leos-tombs-and-bangkok-were-high-risk-violators-of-d-c-health-code-in-2009/

10. Leos, 2005, 2008, 2009, 2012

Are we even surprised?

https://www.thehoya.com/doh-hits-leos-with-seven-violations/

https://blog.georgetownvoice.com/2012/09/13/leos-health-inspection-reports-six-violations-third-level-risk-category/

Don’t worry we love you guys anyways!

images source: google images

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Hasta La Vista Bandolero

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Attn: Georgetown Lovers of Guacamole, Tapas and Margaritas 

4E received some sad news this week. Bandolero, an M Street Tapas hot spot, will be closing after years of legal problems.

Bandolero is known for their all day happy hours and quasi-affordable food options. It was an institution for many a Georgetown student.

Bandolero’s closing comes after the closure of both the restaurant Tackle Box and the popular bar Rhino. WHY ARE BAD THINGS HAPPENING TO GOOD INSTITUTIONS?! We are losing the Georgetown food staples. What are they going to replace it with, another inappropriately overexpensive store? Why do we need that? Food > Clothes.

As of now, the actual date of closure is unknown. Knowing M Street management, Bandolero will probably gone soon. Go get your fill while you still can.

Let’s raise a glass to the place we love. Taco Tuesdays will never be the same.

anigif_enhanced-buzz-29826-1369935144-6

As a Guac enthusiast I just have to say, thank God we still have El Centro. (Knocks on wood.)

Thanks to the Washington City Paper for letting us know about this tragic event.

Photos/Gifs: danielswartz.com; buzzfeed.com

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M Street Says Goodbye to Froyo (Again)

027

Today 4E discovered the greatest tragedy on M Street since the closure of Rhino: Sweetgreen has stopped serving frozen yogurt. This feels like a personal attack, as Sweetgreen was founded by three Georgetown graduates.

When the local Pinkberry closed its doors last spring, packs of basic white girls flocked to the corner of M and Bank to get their fix of this “healthy” ice cream alternative. However, now Sweetgreen has decided to cease production of their only dessert option, sticking to the standards: salad, grain bowls, soups and beverages.

After spending $11 on a salad with lite dressing and saying no to bread, a small cup of froyo was the perfect indulgence. What’s the point of salad if not to justify dessert?

parks-and-rec-treat-yo-self

Although frozen yogurt does have fewer calories than ice cream, walking a few extra blocks to T Sweets or Ben and Jerry’s will help even out your consumption. (Okay, it probably won’t, but you can convince yourself otherwise.)

Screen Shot 2015-06-30 at 3.15.24 PM

Screen Shot 2015-06-30 at 3.15.33 PM

Thankfully Pinkberry has reopened, but without Sweetgreen froyo, nothing is the same.

Good luck finding alternative summer snacks, and RIP to the Sweetgreen froyo business.

Photos: myfitnesspal.com; fannetasticfood.com; elitedaily.com

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Snapchat Updates: D.C. Takeover

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Everyone knows that 4E loves Snapchat. Like really, really, REALLY loves Snapchat. It is basically required when you are hired to have the skill of taking tactful selfies with a variety of filters.

snapchat-gif

Due to this, we feel it is our DUTY to inform the Georgetown population of every single Snapchat update/change that occurs. Because who wouldn’t want to be in the know?

This week Snapchat released a bunch of new Georgetown/DC Geofilters! FINALLY, its not like we are the nation’s capitol or something.

These Geofilters include:

1. A new Georgetown Geofilter that is actually PRETTY. Shout out for the Blue & Gray. So inspired. Also, the placement is golden as it perfectly frames Healy.

 2. A new, more official DC Geofilter. To be honest, it kinda reminds me of the government. While I am still partial to the “DistriCt” one, I will learn to adapt. Two Geofilters is better than one, right?

 3. A new M street Geofilter. Okay this one came out a couple of weeks ago… but it is still a great addition to our shopping mecca. What better way to say “I just spent my entire paycheck” than with a snazzy new filter.
4. Finally a Lau Filter. Along with these new filters, 4E has learned that there is not one, but two Lau filters for our favorite home away from home. Yes I went to Lau just to Snapchat. Don’t judge me. I could only find one of them, but if you take a picture of the other tweet it to me at @thehoya4E. These filters give all new meaning to procrastination.

Thanks for the new features Snapchat, we can’t wait to exploit them. Also, be sure to look out for Snapchat’s new sponsored filters, coming to a smartphone near you soon!

Let the Snap be with you.

Photos/Gifs: gifsec.com; Courtney Klein/The Hoya; Facebook.com; Christina Wing/The Hoya

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A Summer in the District

summerdc

I have only been in D.C. for the summer for less than a week. Practically no time at all. Less than a week, and I have already encountered a ton of changes in Georgetown during the semester and Georgetown during the summer months. How does one place change so drastically in so little time?!

My Observations:

1. Campus is not the center of everything. This is the first time living off-campus during my time at Georgetown, so campus has obviously played a big part in my day-to-day routine. Now I’m living on Prospect St. and I haven’t even stepped within a block radius of campus!

2. D.C. is hot as hell. Oh hawt damn, D.C. is ridiculously warm. I have heard a ton of rumors of this heat, but experiencing it is a whole other thing. I have never craved iced coffee or froyo more in my life.

giphy

3.  Living in a townhouse is the best type of living. Okay, Georgetown’s dorms are okay, but they are nothing compared to the townhouses in the neighborhood. Sure I am paying a hella lot of money per month, but it is so worth it. I actually feel like a real person, wut?

4. People in the District are beyond fit. Or at least they are really good at pretending to be fit. Everyone walks around with a yoga mat (not judging) and the people at Washington Sports Club seem so into it. Perhaps this will inspire me? (Note: Perhaps does not promise anything.)

rebel-wilson-workout

5. I love this place even more than I thought I did. With school being non-existent I have had more time to enjoy this place we Hoyas call home. Georgetown has so much to offer and I cannot wait to explore it all. Ugh, I love this place.

tumblr_inline_nk50k9lBpg1roz536

For those of you not here right now, be sure to check 4E for more Georgetown updates and summer adventures!

Photos/Gifs: giphy.com; perezhilton.com; tumblr.com; huddy.com

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Capriotti’s Is Opening in DC

subz

You heard right, the famous sub shop Capriotti’s is opening their third D.C.-area location tomorrow, Dec. 15. Please, try to control your excitement and hunger!

Where in D.C.? The one and only M Street, of course! The store is located at 3347 M Street NW in Georgetown, making it an easy commute for hungry Georgetown students.

Do you not know what Capriotti’s is? This amazing restaurant is an award-winning sandwich shop that makes delicious sandwiches from fresh ingredients daily.

It was named by USA Today as one of the “10 Great Places for a Surprising Sandwich”, and the company truly embodies that statement. Their sandwich “The Bobbie,” named the “best sandwich” by the Washington Post, is made with freshly roasted turkey, homemade stuffing, cranberry sauce and a pinch of mayo.

Just when you thought things couldn’t get any better, they just did. In honor of their grand Georgetown opening, Capriotti’s is giving FREE “Bobbie” subs to the first 100 people in line tomorrow. I repeat, FREE AMAZING SANDWICHES.

excited-baby

How can you get one? Just make sure you start lining up at 11 a.m. tomorrow at Capriotti’s and you will receive a free “Bobbie.”

May the odds be ever in your favor!

Photo/Gif: Capriotti’s; Tumblr

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Francesca’s Is Coming to M Street

francescas

Sick of your current Georgetown wardrobe? Feel like updating your style with the changing of seasons? Looking for the right statement necklace to compliment your dress for the formal you’ll inevitably attend?

Well then you might want to brace yourself and your wallet, because Francesca’s is opening up a new store on M Street. Just in case you can’t tell from the gif inserted below, 4E is pretty excited about this news!

That’s right Hoyas, the Houston-based women’s boutique is coming to Georgetown in early 2015, providing you with just another perfect excuse to drain your bank account (as if there weren’t enough already).

The store carries an array of affordably priced clothes, handbags, shoes and accessories perfect for any trendy student’s closet. Francesca’s aims to provide its customers with fashionable options at lower prices in comparison to other upper-end retailers already on M Street. Finally, the perfect place for the fashion forward college student: cute clothes and low prices. You know what that means?  More money to spend on coffee and food. YES.

The brand has been working on making a greater presence in the district, as it has opened shops in many of the major shopping malls. While you’ll have to wait until next year to conveniently shop at the brand’s M Street location, you can peruse the Francesca’s website for a little fashion inspiration and holiday shopping (for yourself, obviously).

Francesca’s also has some great gift options and a ton of online as well as in-store promotions and clearance items. The holiday season is truly upon us.

Happy shopping, Hoyas!

Thanks to Biz Journals for this amazing discovery.

Gifs: tumblr.com; Photos: https://www.turkeycreek.com/businesslisting/francescas-collection/; https://www.panoramio.com/photo/16824744

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Rent the Runway Is Coming!

renttherunwayLadies of Georgetown, get ready for a game changer. There is no reason to starve yourself into that mistake of a prom dress just so you can go to Georgetown’s next formal event.

Rent the Runway is set to open a shop in Georgetown, in Cady’s Alley right off of M Street in November. If you don’t know, now you know that Rent the Runway is a website that rents out designer dresses, jumpsuits, jackets, and accessories for super reduced prices. Now they’re opening up stores so you can try on the pieces before committing to anything. As a girl who’s had an account for a few years and racked up a total of 195 “likes” or “hearts” but has never actually rented anything, I could really use the assurance of knowing that I’ll love my first rental.

The store will allow both appointments and walk-ins. An appointment, which costs $25, provides the help of a stylist. But … you’re a Hoya, so you should really be your own stylist, or just bring your fashionable friend.

Just to give you a flavor of the options available to you here are some dresses you could rent for these Hoya Holidays:

Corp Gala

I had serious FOMO this night. The ladies were looking fabo and the fellas were looking fine. The venue is always AMAZING too.

National Bologna Day, October 24

The soonest and most important of the upcoming Hoya holidays. Celebrate it by emulating your favorite sandwich meat.

bologna

Halloween

Look you’re a garden! Or a fairy princess! You’re the most ethereal girl in brown house!

garden
But if you must be a sexy kitten, then you’ve got options too. Screen Shot 2014-09-18 at 3.23.44 PM

 

That NHS formal/club sports formal thing you’re bound to go to

You WILL end up going to one.

formal

Dip ball

Impress diplomats and the like with your color-blocking abilities. “No I don’t know anything about…”

Screen Shot 2014-09-18 at 3.27.07 PM

Foxfields

Who’s the foxiest lady in the field? And where are all the horses?

foxfield

The cheapest dresses offered online are $40. Create a free account and browse away. When the store opens, you may want to try to reserve a dress a few weeks before any major Georgetown holiday (Bologna Day for sure) because I assume a lot of lady Hoyas will be eyeing the same dress as you.

H/T Washington Post, Washington Business Journal

Photo: rentherunway.com 

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Chadwicks Is Closing, and Mr. Smith’s Is Taking Its Place

chadwicks

After Mr. Smith’s announced its closure Monday, the bar today announced plans to move into the Chadwicks space on K Street.

Washington City Paper first reported Mr. Smith’s intentions to close by the end of the month, though the general manager said they were looking for another space in Georgetown. According to Eater DC, now it is Chadwicks that will close on Aug. 31, and Mr. Smith’s that will continue its run in Georgetown.

Luckily, Chadwicks, which has been open since 1967, still has its other location in Alexandria, Va. According to The Georgetown Metropolitan, Mr. Smith’s, which has been around since at least 1962, was forced from its original location on M Street by a rise in the building’s rent.

Obviously we at 4E are upset by this news as it means the end of cheap happy hours and bottomless champagne brunch on the weekends at Chadwicks. But, at the same time, we’re happy to see that a Georgetown institution — Mr. Smith’s — will live on.

Photos: Mr. Smith’s via Washington City Paper, Mikayla Bouchard via The Pursuit of Happy Hour