DC Restaurant Closings Surge As Locals Dine Out Less

It seems like every time I open my phone, I see another restaurant closure announcement. Roofers Union, Crazy Aunt Helen’s, The Gibson, Spacycloud, and Bammy’s to name a few. Why does it seem like all D.C.’s best restaurants are shuttering at once?

Apparently, this is normal this time of year. David of the Eat_DC X (formerly Twitter) account told us, “Closings typically cluster around this time of year because it's heading into slow season, so owners decide to cut their losses.” “That makes it feel like an unusual amount at once, which it is, but only compared to the rest of the year.”

While this may be a pattern, restaurants are also facing increased financial pressures this year, making matters worse. Increased crime means higher insurance rates. And crime has indirect effects, like people avoiding “dangerous” neighborhoods. On top of that, you have inflation and the phasing out of the tipped minimum wage.

Still, D.C. has a few new openings to get excited about.

SURREAL (National Landing):

Chef Enrique Limardo of Seven Reasons is opening a fancy all-day diner with dishes like a Swordfish Carpaccio and “Twisted Foot Long Hotdog,” as well as to-go pastries and sandwiches. Opening is set for December.

Ceibo (Adams Morgan):

Two Uruguayan brothers opened this sleek ode to South American food on 18th Street NW with traditional meats charred over an open fire, oysters, and Patagonian shrimp. Also try the pickled eggplant with ricotta, truffle honey, sourdough breadcrumbs, and romesco sauce.

Falafel Bros (Shaw):

This new falafel joint right across from Atlantis has a basic but delicious menu of $11 falafel sandwiches and is open until 2 a.m. on weekends.