It's a never ending summer over in Adams Morgan, at least that's what Justin Abad and John Manolatos of Cashion's Eat Place will have you believe. They've taken over the old Taan Noodle place next door to Cashion's and opened up Pop's SeaBar, which opens today. I got a chance at a sneak peak earlier this week, which means I can tell you all about it.
It's Jersey Shore meets Gulf Coast, the restaurant is super casual with few tables but plenty of red and blue bar stools reminiscent of a 1950's diner that align the impressively long bar and back wall. The walls are covered in beach-side memorabilia and a shelf lined with old school oyster buckets. The decor at Pop's certainly does pop.
On weekends Pop's will remain open until 2am (midnight weekdays) which is not a good sign for the beloved AdMo Big Slice. There's a new kid in town - the Pop's Patty with Taylor Pork Roll - a Griddled Burger topped with American Cheese, Fried Egg and Pork Roll served between a soft Potato Roll. This is a destination burger, one that'll bring you back time and time again, and perfect drunk food. It was delicious. The pork roll isn't just reserved for the burger, it can also be found on the Jersey Dog served with pickles and slaw.
Upstairs you'll find a raw bar serving up a selection of East Coast sourced Oysters along with the full menu which include, on the lighter side Peel 'n' Eat Shrimp, Smelts (a small white fish fried), and Calamari. Larger platters are also available, a Blue Catfish, Catch of the Day and a rather expensive Crab Cake - a 5oz serving (with two sides) will cost you a rather hefty $24.
Drinks get the beach-side treatment too, a "Hup Hup Orange Crush" freshly squeezed Orange Juice (to order), Vodka and Aquavit. My favorite was the Jungle Bird, with El Dorado Rum, Cappelletti, Pineapple and Lime. There are plenty of beers on offer too, with a rotating 3 Stars on draft.
Pop's SeaBar, 1817 Columbia Road NW, Washington, DC (closest metro: Woodley Park)