The Red Derby Opens in Columbia Heights Tonight
As of this morning, The Red Derby showed very little evidence of its upcoming grand opening this evening at 6 p.m. The only thing separating itself from the laundromat and carryout on either side is a red logo painted above the doorway. The painting is so simple a child could have drawn it – is it a zit? A misshapen condom? Or perhaps the rear shot of a sleeping hippo? It’s actually a derby – or “bowler” - hat, like the famous brown version from Los Angeles. The homemade paint job belies the thought and effort owners Sasha Carter and David Leventry bore to bring a welcome addition to the Petworth and Columbia Heights neighborhoods.
The rumors of the new bar have been swirling around community message boards for nearly a year now. Following The Red Derby’s updates on the Columbia Heights community forum, the bar has gone through an excruciatingly slow process of proposals, licenses, and inspections.
"Imagine spending a few hours at the DMV everyday for a year,” Carter said.
Currently located at the corner of 14th and Quincy Streets, The Red Derby had its beginnings on the 18th street strip of Adams Morgan. Located above the now defunct Santa Rosa seafood restaurant – currently Splash – The Red Derby was open for just two months before their temporary agreement with Santa Rosa ended. Since then, Carter and Leventry have had their eye on their current neighborhood. Why not stick with Adams Morgan? Carter says that despite the residential area, Adams Morgan has evolved to a point where the streets are “mayhem” on the weekends. “We really wanted a neighborhood spot,” she added.
According to Carter, an unpretentious, mom-and-pop, upscale-dive neighborhood spot is exactly what you’ll get. First, and most notably, they’ll be serving beers only in cans. Their reasoning: “We’re committed to a better price point.” $2 Natty Bohs will be hard to resist. Throw in another dollar for a game of pool on the single table in the back, and you’ve got the cheapest date ever.
“Old school” was another term used to describe the new bar. Daily specials will include sidecars, Tom Collins, Manhattans, and others. This week’s shot special is the Woo Woo, a throwback to a 1980s drink consisting of peach schnapps and cranberry juice. On the other hand, I’m not sure how old-fashioned a place can be when you can bring in your iPod and play your own music selections. It all plays into the neighborhood atmosphere Carter and Leventry are trying to foster.
Also to note, not done on purpose to stay “old school,” the bar is currently cash only, but hopes to have a credit option added soon.
The Prince of Petworth has a sneak preview with pictures inside The Red Derby.
The Red Derby
3714 14th St. NW
202.291.5000