SOCIAL HAS OPENED IN COLUMBIA HEIGHTS.

Social opened its doors as the newest restaurant in a bustling and vibrant neighborhood. The partners behind Social were eager to unveil their gem, and pleased to serve well over 300 new customers on Columbia Heights Day. Now, the owners are ready to welcome guests from all over the District. Situated on the southwest corner of 14th Street and Meridian Place NW, Social is just four blocks north of the Columbia Heights Metro making it an easily accessible dining and drink locale.

Reminiscent of a comfortable District residence with dark-espresso leather couches and high-back dining room chairs, Social provides a “vibe” that was noted by many over the opening weekend as second to none. The main dining room, familiarly called the Family Room, is accented with textured plaster walls, rich wood floors and wine inspired carpet. Photography from Jonathan Zuck, a family photo wall, and classic artwork ornament the venue. After dinner, guests can enjoy a cocktail seated at the bar or lounging on an ottoman in the Cellar. The furnishings, from Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, create a relaxed and open space in the two combined former row-homes, while vast windows allow people watching over the bustling 14th Street Corridor.

Complimenting the innovative design concept, Social will provide a fresh dining experience. The plates are as interesting and diverse as the beverage selection. The Shareable menu items such as the Poké Stack, an Ahi tuna sashimi dish, or the Baby Lamb Lollipops topped with cilantro pecan pesto are available in Intimate, Social, or Gala micro-dining sizes, allowing any size party to mix and match menu items to their taste. If sharing is not your forte, European-style Pan Roasted Crispy Chicken and other items on the Self Indulgence menu provide a tasty individual experience.

“We take the beverage approach to dining,” according to owner AJ Guy, “When you go out for drinks you never order them all at once. In the same way, our menu is designed to be leisurely perused by our guests.”

Partners AJ Guy, Scott Hammons and Tim Korzep have a history with headline hospitality projects. Their combined experience in operations and development includes Kimpton Hotels and Restaurants, Houston’s Restaurants, and the Ian Schrager Company, providing the team with a wealth of hospitality knowledge. Urban hikes, exploring unsung neighborhoods of the District, inspired the owners and in the end Columbia Heights proved the perfect canvas for a neighborhood destination. Unique dining and entertainment should not be exclusive to Georgetown or Downtown. Social creates an unrivaled experience at the apex of a burgeoning foodie scene in Washington, D.C.

Social is open seven nights a week and soon on Saturdays and Sundays for brunch. To create an unrushed and comfortable environment, Social does not take reservations.'

Haven't tried it yet, but hoping to make it there soon.