When The Black Squirrel opened in late February, it seemed at first glance that the new dining spot would be a standout among the restaurants and bars along Adams Morgan’s 18th Street strip. An early review by the Washington Post was positive and it appeared that diners in the area had a place that would provide food as enticing as their extensive beer list.

Several visits in April confirmed the early praise. The menu offered interesting choices ranging from traditional Belgian fare like mussels in a shallot, bacon, and curry cream sauce with frites to classic Southern 24-hour ribs, braised until the meat fell right off the bone. In addition to the food, The Black Squirrel offered some great specials including half-priced burgers on Thursday nights – although what area bar/restaurant doesn’t have a half price burger night? – and, more notably, half-priced Tuesdays on the entire menu.

However, The Squirrel may have hit a bit of a shakeup. Gone are the half-priced Tuesdays, instead now offering half-priced appetizers from 5 – 8 p.m. Discounted burgers are still available on Thursdays, but only from 5 – 7 p.m., and Wednesdays offer half off bottles of wine all night. But it’s the loss of the Tuesday special that stings the most. The deal offered customers a great way to try various items on the menu while feeling financially comfortable ordering a $12 or $14 beer.

Maybe the restaurant changed the specials due to pressures from rising food prices that, according to the Post, are affecting many area restaurants. But that doesn’t account for other noticeable changes, particularly on the menu. Gone are the grilled trout, pan-seared swordfish, and braised lamb shanks. New entreés include lemon-crusted tilapia, lasagna, and house-made German bratwurst. They have kept the fantastic brie-stuffed, bacon cheeseburger and have added two new sandwich options: a club and a Reuben.

Photo by furcafe