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Covering Forest Hills, Van Ness, North Cleveland Park and Wakefield

What If? Busboys And Poets At Van Ness

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by Marlene Berlin

Busboys and poetsDid anyone read the piece in the Washington Post’s Metro section about Busboys and Poets? It’s the closest the District comes to European-style avant guard café, blending art and politics. Busboys has two locations in DC, on 14th and V Streets and K and 5th Streets, and two locations outside the District.

And it is looking for other locations.

As soon as I read it, I thought about Van Ness and the new space available when the BF Saul turns Van Ness Square into Park Van Ness. Then other thoughts tumbled in. Would this be good for Politics and Prose? Is this too edgy for our community? Or is this something that would add a new dimension to our staid community and attract a younger crowd?

I was talking to ANC Commissioner Mary Beth Ray about another matter and asked whether she had read this piece. “Yes,” she said, “and thought of Van Ness and then Politics and Prose.” This is all fodder for the new ANC 3F Van Ness Vision Committee, which she chairs.

What would you think about Bus Boys and Poets at Van Ness? Take a look at the Busboys and Poets web site. Comment below and tell us about your ideas for a more vibrant Van Ness.

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Comments

  1. I once had a dream that Trader Joe’s was moving to the neighborhood. Literally. When I woke up, I was so happy!

    I do wonder if mom and pop enterprises or even local chains will be able to afford the new space. I suspect we’ll see more national chains moving in.

  2. I emailed Andy, the owner of Busboys and Poets, to invite him to consider Van Ness for his next location. Have not heard back. Would encourage neighbors to write him with friendly encouragement as well– his email address can be found on the website for Busboys and Poets. Also, LOVE the Trader Joe’s idea– we spoke with BF Saul about that, and they said they did actually explore the possibility, but their space is not large enough. Other possible locations in FH and VN?

    • Thanks Mary Beth! I honestly had no idea that Trader Joe’s was even a possibility. I can see that they’d need more space, and probably a guarantee of garage access for customers.

  3. Busboys are economic engines and community magnets wherever they go in, most often in underserved neighborhoods. One in Van Ness would be fantastic. Let’s start our own grass-roots letter-writing, social networking campaign; Andy would understand and appreciate the passion and motivation behind that. I share your enthusiasm for being pro-active.

    A hardware store, such as the locally-owned ACE hardware shops; e.g., Tenley, Woodley, P Street would be a great asset. They sometimes sell plants and seeds and care a great deal about being a part of neighborhoods and communities. A great place to get breakfast, a burrito, read the paper and have a cup of coffee or smoothie would be welcome.

  4. I would like to see Office Depot retained. I have found the store well stocked for many home office supplies and it is very convenient to have a store such as this in the neighborhood.

  5. I would like a restaurant with a grand view of the park. I agree that Office Depot should stay – maybe on a smaller scale. Hope Pier 1 will stay as well. Maybe even a small diner where one could go for breakfast. Hope some of our wishes come true!

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