El Chucho Rides Into Columbia Heights This Month

Photo: Lorraine Fitzsimmons

By Olga Boikess

El Chucho, a Columbia Heights Mexican from the Jackie’s team, gets its name from a legendary bandit. And indeed, with margaritas on tap, the restaurant should offer plenty of opportunity for debauched behavior when it opens on June 18. It's the latest low-key, hip entry on 11 Street NW - joining Room 11, Maple and RedRocks Pizza - offering a cozy spot for a sip, bite and meet-up with friends. Here's what to expect.

The Setting: A rehabbed storefront with big windows opening to the street and exposed ceiling beams will be outfitted in industrial-mod decor and bright colors. The bar area will have a late-night vibe going, and the wall behind the brick-faced, poured-concrete bar will be decorated using salvaged items such as parquet flooring, table legs and staircase balustrades.
The Food: Expect inexpensive small bites, including tacos with tripe or octopus, bocadillos filled with pork belly and escabeche, and sopes with pigs' blood sausage. There will also likely be some kind of hot dog on the menu. Food will be served in plastic baskets lined with brightly colored tissue.

The Drink: Mexican Coca-Cola is a given. A vintage milkshake machine will be used to make Blue Hawaiians and even a whipped avocado margarita. An extensive collection of tequila shots, beer and wine will add to the spirited vibe.

The Roof: Tall plantation shutters, a repurposed iron railing, tropical planters and heat lamps will outfit a roof deck.

3313 11th St. NW; 202-290-3313