Neighborhood Newness LIFE
A Look at Modern Living in D.C.’s Capitol Riverfront WORDS BY M.K. KOSZYCKI + KAYLA MARSH Parks, waterfront recreation, convenient shopping, one-of-a-kind dining, sports attractions, inspired workspaces and premier events are all components of the booming Capitol Riverfront neighborhood in Southeast D.C. One of the fastest growing neighborhoods in the District, Capitol Riverfront is a true live, work and play experience that gives businesses, residents, retail and guests an exciting environment to connect and thrive. With so much growth over the past year, District Fray dove into some of the most exciting places to enjoy while eating, drinking, living and relaxing – plus ways to support the neighborhood’s small businesses during the Covid-19 crisis.
FABULOUS FOOD + DRINK Grab some takeout from these locations, add them to your list of places to visit come the end of Covid-19 and keep your eyes peeled for some exciting new spots in the neighborhood.
ABC Pony Though Erik Bruner-Yang says he loves the Novel apartments, which houses his latest venture ABC Pony, a nostalgic aspect drew him to the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood, too. “I also went to prom at Capitol Skyline Hotel in the late ‘90s. I loved that McDonalds that used to be there,” he reminisces. ABC Pony blends different cuisines and cultures for a unique menu. “I think ABC Pony is a really special restaurant cooking creative dishes inspired by Italian and Asian cultures. It has a great vibe and it is super affordable,” Bruner-Yang explains. “[It] is a story of the American dream, coming to the U.S. as an immigrant and learning about other food cultures while still holding on to your own personal identity. I was really inspired by the energy of the movie Do the Right Thing.” The spot is currently offering takeout, and he’s appreciative of how great the community has been in supporting them amid the current crisis. Bruner-Yang also kicked off the Power of 10 Initiative, which positively impacts not only ABC Pony but the D.C. food community as a whole. “It has been amazing to see the community really rally around their favorite restaurants to help keep them open. People are doing lots of to go orders, purchasing gift cards and sending lots of love via email.” Visit www.powerof10initiative.com and follow @abcpony on social media for more. 2 I St. SE, DC; www.abcpony.com
Anchovy Social This rooftop spot at the Thompson Hotel is one stylish way to snack while overlooking Capitol Riverfront. Since opening in January this year, Anchovy Social’s Assistant Food and Beverage Director Joshua Scott admits the vibe and vivid rooftop views has really brought the community together. “We have had wonderful feedback on the space itself, and on food and service. [We’re] really looking forward to seeing people in the space again soon.” Anchovy Social is temporarily closed, but you can look forward to eggplant parm dip, smoked trout tin, cacio e pepe chips and more once it’s safe to gather again. The beverage list is just as enticing. “We have some great drinks ready for summer that will remind you of your youth,” Scott says. Keep in touch with them on social media @anchovysocial for updates. 221 Tingey St. SE, DC; www.anchovysocial.com 56 | APRIL 2020
Maialino Mare This Roman-inspired seafood restaurant opened its doors earlier this year in January in Capitol Riverfront. Think coastal, European eats courtesy of executive chef Rose Noel, who’s worked in several well-established restaurants in New York. Noel has thoroughly enjoyed cooking on the D.C. waterfront for the past few months. “I love being near the water. The group of restaurant owners and staff [in Capitol Riverfront] have all been very kind and welcoming,” she says. She crafts dishes to remind you of the trattorias in Rome: “classic, simple and delicious.” She and her team strive to craft an unforgettable meal made of some of her favorite seasonal ingredients.“I love seafood and vegetables. It is great to be so close to the coast and the bay,” Noel says. “Amazing fresh ingredients makes cooking simple food easy.” While temporarily closed, Union Square Hospitality Group has a plan to lend a hand to staff facing financial hardship with its USHG HUGS, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) fund to support USHG team members who are facing unexpected and exceptional financial needs. You can donate to their employee relief fund at www.ushgnyc.com/ushghugs and follow @maialinomare for more. 221 Tingey St. SE, DC; www.maialinomare.com
Maxwell Park The expansion of this spot from Shaw to a second Capitol Riverfront location ensures that casual sippers and vinophiles alike can enjoy their wide range of wines. “A wine bar run by former restaurant sommeliers is unique wherever you put it,” says proprietor and sommelier Brent Kroll. “I think we add a fun bar involving wine that’s not too serious or stuffy. It kind of has the feel of a cocktail party.” Kroll notes that he was drawn to the social and friendly feelings the neighborhood evoked when he’d hang out there on his days off, and sees momentum being gained in terms of Capitol Riverfront’s commercial growth. “Everyone has been super kind. The location fits [the neighborhood] and we had been off to a great start.” This Maxwell Park is connected to Albi, a Middle Eastern restaurant with a modern American twist, where Kroll is also a partner and assists with the wine. “I highly recommend trying both,” he says. Currently, they offer weekly contact free pick-up at their Shaw location – just check out the selection on their site and email your order to info@maxwellparkdc.com to snag some quality wines. Follow them on social media @maxwellpark_navyyard. 1346 4th St. SE, DC; www.maxwellparkdc.com
