Photo Courtesy Tricia Barba

As a former Capitol Hill resident and now a proud Navy Yard dweller, let me just say that Monday’s re-opening of Bullfeathers is one that I’ve been eagerly awaiting.  And that’s an understatement.

To recap: Bullfeathers “closed” in July of last year in order to undergo a complete renovation.  The Capitol Hill mainstay is now owned and operated by the team behind the popular Tunnicliff’s Tavern, Ulah Bistro & Stoney’s.

Before it closed down, Bullfeathers had been up and running since 1980s and was a popular hangout for House staffers, interns and politicians.  Unfortunately, by the end it was known more as a “dive bar” and reviews weren’t too positive.

But it was (is) an institution nonetheless. Jessica Mulroy, one of the owners, told me that they hope to capitalize on that and turn Bullfeathers into a popular neighborhood bar.  She’s wants to see more denizens here on the weekends, and hopes people in Navy Yard realize what in easy walk it is to Bullfeathers (about half a mile).

“Everyone will love it…we’re really proud of what we are doing here,” she says.  “We’re kicking the food here up a notch and really upped the quality, but you can still come here and have a nice meal for two on $30.”

I got a look at the menu and everything looks good.  The yellow & red roasted pepper dip, Chesapeake pizza (7 inches and perfect for lunch), pork shank, and peppered shrimp Alfredo all look like winners.  If you would rather have something sweet you can go with the chocolate pancakes.

The American-fare bar & grille will offer 31 draft beers as well as specialty beers. Or, if you prefer, have an apple pie milkshake.

The website promises to be interactive, and diners will be able to place orders online. Bullfeathers also plans to use Facebook and Twitter actively to promote good deals and fun events.

Fun fact: According to lore the term “bullfeathers” was coined by our 26th president Teddy Roosevelt, who instead of using profane language when in public, used the word “bullfeathers.” So the restaurant says “Enjoy yourself, the rest is bullfeathers.”

Bullfeathers is located at 410 First St SE.  The closest metro stop is Capitol South (Orange/Blue line) For more information, call 202-484-0228.

Tricia Barba

Tricia is a native Washingtonian, born and raised in Columbia Heights. She loves DC so much that she was only able to leave the city for one year after college and immediately came running back. Tricia works in PR during the day, and spends her nights trying out new restaurants in DC with friends or watching The Good Wife, Grey’s Anatomy and Private Practice. Tricia recently decided to eat her way though all of Zagat’s 2011 restaurants until she realized she would be old and broke by the time she finished. Follow her on Twitter and email her at Tricia (at) welovedc.com.