Palena Restaurant Could Face Eviction

Longtime Cleveland Park restaurant Palena could face eviction over unpaid rent, according to a report from The Washington City Paper.

According to court documents unearthed by the paper, an eviction notice dated Feb. 6 states that the restaurant owed a total of $125,779 in rent and other fees as of Jan. 31. The article has a statement from landlord Federal Realty, which reads, "Please understand that as part of our corporate policy we do not comment on the specifics of any lease terms. Palena has been a merchant at Sam's Park & Shop for almost 20 years. Federal Realty values long-standing partnerships such as the one we have with Palena and we have enjoyed their tenancy."

What impact this will have on the restaurant is unclear at this time. Eater reached out to a Palena spokesperson earlier today, when a vague thread on Don Rockwell speculated that the restaurant may be closing. A spokeswoman called a potential closure "pure rumor" earlier this morning, but did not respond to follow-up inquiries with any additional information.

Palena has been one of D.C.'s most praised fine dining institutions, and is also beloved for such dishes as its burger, available in its more casual cafe. The team opened a coffee shop in an adjacent space in November.
· Palena Restaurant Faces Eviction [WCP]
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