After months of speculation, it’s now official:
Busboys and Poets is opening its newest bookstore/café at Monroe Street Market in Brookland.
The 7,400-square-foot spot will open fall 2014, at the corner of Monroe Street and Michigan, in the massive $200 million apartment, restaurant and retail complex. Anchored by a Barnes and Noble, Monroe Street Market will span five city blocks and will be adjacent to the Brookland-CUA metro.
The 200-seat venue will feature a performance space that will host community artists, Owner Andy Shallal says. He estimates that the total investment in the location will be about $2 million, split with landlord the
Bozzuto Group.
The restaurant will feature a lounge, a full bar and a menu with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free items. The bookstore will carry niche books that won’t compete with Barnes & Noble, which will largely be a university bookstore. Busboys and Poets will carry books on poetry, social issues and children’s books.
Shallal says he has a personal interest in the area. He has lived in the neighborhood while attending Catholic University and sees potential in the area.
“I’ve lived in the area and know it fairly well. It’s underserved,” in terms of retail and restaurant options.
Other restaurants joining Busboys at Monroe Street Market include &pizza, Potbelly Sandwich Works and a new, yet unnamed restaurant from the owners of Meridian Pint.
The Brookland spot will be the sixth Busboys and Poets. Shallal’s fifth Busboys
will open in Takoma Park this spring.
In addition to plotting two new restaurants, Shallal is running for D.C. mayor. He says his daughter, son and brother are all taking over more responsibilities of running the business so he has more time to dedicate toward his campaign.