The Whitlow’s tradition began on the corner of 11th and E Street, NW, when David Whitlow opened his bar and grill to the public in 1946. Over the next 25 years, Whitlow’s became an unmistakable landmark in downtown D.C. Greg Cahill purchased the restaurant in 1971, but changed little of the tavern that had become so much a part of the city. In 1989, Whitlow’s closed its doors to enable a mass redevelopment of that site. It was the first time in 18 years, excluding Christmas and the filming of a scene in the movie Broadcast News, that the grill was closed. Greg and Susie Cahill, along with their son Jon Williams, re-opened Whitlow’s on Wilson Boulevard in November of 1995 in Arlington, Virginia. Whitlow’s on Wilson quickly became a neighborhood gathering spot known for homestyle cooking, brunch, happy hours, live music, and all-around good times. Whitlow’s expanded it’s footprint in 1999, adding a private bar and events space and eventually added the famous rooftop tiki bar in 2010. The Arlington location closed in June of 2021 after 26 amazing years. After spending the better part of a year searching for a new location, the family decided on the lively Shaw neighborhood in NW Washington, D.C. After a year long run, the opportunity presented itself to move into the larger Brixton space three doors down, allowing them to bring back the classics from their old menu along with live music, DJs, a large private event space, and of course an expansive rooftop. The new location at the corner of 9th and U Street has three distinct floors. The first floor is a neighborhood bar and restaurant with a rich history and many recognizable items from the original D.C. and Arlington locations. Guests will recognize the back bar façade, tables, antique light fixtures, and neon signs, as well as booths from St. Patrick’s Cathedral in NW Washington, D.C. which were brought over from the Arlington location. The second floor is perfect for sports viewing parties, or private events and will be the room that transforms into a dance club or live music venue depending on the night with a state-of-the-art light and sound system. The back bar façade lived in the private event room of the Arlington location. There are community tables, 5 TVs, projector, and a lot of recognizable memorabilia, including the iconic Elvis bust. The expansive rooftop “Beach Bar” has amazing views of the bustling U Street corridor, while the laid-back vibe and bright colors transport you to the beach or a sunny island bar. There are 3 murals of the original D.C., Arlington, and short-lived 9th Street location painted by local artist Bryan King. You may also recognize the exterior neon “Whitlow’s” sign on 9th Street from the Arlington location. Whitlow’s is conveniently located just two blocks from the U Street Metro Station and directly across the street from the popular 9:30 Club. Please note that street parking is limited and do not park in any residentially zoned spots.
