Spike Mendelsohn's Speakeasy; John Shields Q&A

DUPONT CIRCLE— Spike Mendelsohn is planning a speakeasy — and it's opening soon. The exact location for The Sheppard hasn't been revealed, but Zagat reports it will open in just a couple weeks with only a green light marking the entrance. They'll have 35 seats, a cocktail menu from Jack Caminos and reservations via phone. [Zagat]

VIRGINIA— Eater National interviews John Shields about his new Riverstead project. Don't worry, D.C. — he'd still like to come here eventually. [-EN-]

BALTIMORE— In other slightly out-of-town news, Luk Fu has opened at the Maryland Live! casino. They're serving dim sum, Pho and other Asian fare. [EaterWire]

SHAW— Cocktail writer Robert Simonson is headed to Southern Efficiency tonight from 5-7 p.m. He'll be serving up Old Fashioneds to go with his new book, The Old-Fashioned (naturally). [EaterWire]