(From DCist contributor Eleanor Davis, with Austin Dienst)

In four years of living in Columbia Heights, DCist has seen a lot of changes. New condos are springing up like dandelions in an un-mowed lawn, it’s been at least a year since anyone got shot in our alley, we’ve got a neighborhood coffeeshop, and there’s a great new bar we can walk to. But all of this can’t help but seem like a prelude to the opening of the much debated and oft–postponed Tivoli theater complex at 14th Street and Park Road. Sure, it’s not quite as flashy as the Target/ice rink/movie theater they’re planning to build across the street, but the lights on the marquee shine pretty darn bright.

Burned out during the 1968 riots, the former movie theatre has been remodeled into office space, retail units, and a 250-seat performance space. Town houses and a new Giant are still under construction around the corner, but new signage indicates a Wachovia branch and Blockbuster will be opening soon, and this weekend the GALA Hispanic Theater is having a grand opening celebration featuring tours and performances from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and a Three King’s Day party, with a petting zoo, from 2-4 p.n. on Sunday. Tickets for tonight's GALA Gala were $250 each, but they are currently sold out. So if you don't have one you'll have to wait until Saturday or Sunday to check out the new space. But don't fret, there are other ways to get involved with the theatre. There are two different membership plans, which give you access to selected shows, readings, and film screenings. Upcoming performances include "Yerma," "A Poet in New York," and "Real Women Have Curves."

Looking for dining options before or after a show? DCist is here to help.

For down home breakfast classics, Salvadoran staples, or both at the same time, the Waffle Shop is all about comfort foods. DCist is fond of the pancakes and bacon, but honestly, the waffles aren’t all that good. A typical Salvadoran breakfast of eggs, beans, and fried plantains is delicious, though the squeaky white cheese is not for everyone. Milkshakes bridge the two cultures, available in tropical and non-tropical flavors and made right in front of you. Seating is counter only, and sometimes limited so get there early. Look for the olde-time neon sign on the corner of Park Road and 14th Street, directly across from the Tivoli marquee.

If you’re looking for a slightly classier experience, El Rinconcito II Café has two dining rooms, table service, and a full bar. The Salvadoran sections of the menu are extensive, while the Mexican offerings are pretty standard. If you haven’t had a pupusa you should try one, but our favorite is the tamal de elote, a fresh corn tamale served with salty Central American sour cream. If you are feeling less adventurous, there are tacos, burritos, and even cheeseburgers. Walk down Park Road past the Giant-to-be and look for a burgundy sign on the bottom floor of a row house at the corner of Park Road and Holmead Place.

Finally, if you are willing to venture up 14th Street a few blocks, the Rib Pit is worth the walk. Definitely carry-out only (the bullet proof plastic means you can’t even lean on the counter) this is a place to stop on your way home. The stacks of wood in the window are a good clue that these guys are for real. They smoke beef, pork, and even turkey in giant tile ovens that look like they’re been around since before the Tivoli. There are lots of specials posted, so mix and match the meats you want. Vegetarians will have to make do with fried fish or side dishes. DCist suggests avoiding the too-greasy mac and cheese, but there are plenty of other options. Look for the faded mural at the corner of 14th and Randolph streets.