Matchbox Coming to the Hill
As if we needed any more proof that Barracks Row is flexing its muscle in bringing business to the Hill. But, we have it anyway. Last week’s TomChat gave us the news that Matchbox, the over-popular Gallery Place pizza and mini-burger heaven, has signed a lease for a second location along Barracks Row—521 8th Street SE to be precise. According to Tom, the owner expects the new place to open in the next 9 or 10 months (under optimal conditions). With Jordans 8 (not related to Michael Jordan’s steakhouse; Jordans 8 is owned by the same folks as Tapatinis), a new Italian/Mediterranean place going into the old Ellington’s on 8th space, and Locanda joining Row venerables like Belga, Starfish, and Las Placitas; Barracks Row and Eastern Market are really coming into their own as a dining destination.
As far as Matchbox, we’re looking forward to some good miniburgers (step it up, Ugly Mug), wood fired pizza, and hopefully a shorter wait. Guess we shouldn’t count on that last one, though, right? We’ll just go ahead and send someone down to get in line now for a table on Friday, June 27, 2008.
Ceviche Holding Benefit for Peru Quake
We’re constantly amazed by the quick response of Washington’s restaurant community when people need help. The latest example is Ceviche, which will be donating five percent of its sales at both of its locations (Silver Spring and Glover Park) to relief efforts for victims of the 8.0 magnitude earthquake in Peru. Ceviche’s Executive Chef Javier Angeles-Beron was born in Peru, and he has pledged to help his countrymen rebuild. According to latest reports, more than 500 people have perished because of the quake, and tens of thousands have been displaced. The city of Pisco is more than 70% destroyed, according to Peruvian officials.
Both restaurants will also provide donation boxes from the Peruvian Embassy for those interested in dropping off a check. You can also find information about other relief efforts on the Embassy’s website.
Photo of Dolcezza’s gelato from Samer Farha.
