Last Exit Opens In Mt. Pleasant; Half-Smoke Challenge

MT PLEASANT—The neighborhood's new speakeasy opens tonight, according to the chalkboard sign outside Tonic's front door. Guests enter the Last Exit—located just under Radius—through Tonic. The Post has your details on the cocktails and has already dubbed it the best date spot in the neighborhood. [EaterWire, WaPo]

EVENT PLANNING—Eater's reigning Obama Burger Challenge champ Victor Albisu is taking on yet another competition this Sunday. This time? Half-smokes. The BLT Steak chef is facing off against the likes of Nathan Anda (Red Apron Butchery), Danny Bortnick (Firefly), John Critchley (Urbana), Scott Drewno (The Source), Liam LaCivita (Liberty Tavern/Lyon Hall), Dennis Marron (Jackson 20/The Grille at Morrison House), Peter Smith (PS 7's), Chris Watson (BRABO), and Ed Witt (701 Restaurant) in creating the best updated version of a DC classic. Tickets are $20 for this event that will be held at 3pm at Rosslyn's Domaso Trattoria. [EaterWire]

SHAW—The Washingtonian reports that Corduroy owner Tom Power recently bought the building next to his Shaw restaurant. The plan is to open a new "down and dirty" casual restaurant named Velour in the space. [Washingtonian]