Oyster Cocktails and Tobacco Syrup at The Sheppard

July 8 will be the opening date for The Sheppard, the previously-announced speakeasy from Spike Mendelsohn and Vinoda Basnayake.

The Dupont Circle restaurant will open on the second floor of 1337 Connecticut Ave. NW. A green light will tell customers when the bar is open (much like PX in Alexandria's light and pirate flag).

Jack Caminos is handling the cocktails. Some of the opening drinks include The Cigar, made with mezcal, rye whiskey and tobacco syrup, as well as the Huître, a foam cocktail designed to taste like an oyster. The BCBG is described as an "unaged Armagnac cocktail that resembles a mildly fruity version of a Manhattan served in a sphere of ice" in a press release.

Mendelsohn's job is to handle the bar snacks, though there weren't immediate details available on what he'll be serving. The decor will feel lounge-like, with banquettes, chandeliers and Prohibition-era photos. The Sheppard will be open evenings, and reservations are taken by phone starting at 3 p.m. (the number is 202-744-4253).

Editor's Note: A rep updated the opening date to July 8 later today.
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