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Opening Report: The Speak, Ankara Opening Today

A sort-of speakeasy and a new Turkish place.

Ankara Restaurant
Ankara Restaurant
Demirkan Design Medialand
Missy Frederick is the Cities Director for Eater.

1) K STREET: The Speak, D.C.'s newest pseudo-speakeasy, is opening in an underground space on K Street. The bar comes from Seth McClelland, who previously launched the 205 Club in New York before returning to D.C. He designed the 1,750 square foot bar, which has seating for 100 people and a Prohibition-era feel, with touches like reclaimed wood around the entrance to the bar, and vintage banquettes. The Speak will serve both classic and reimagined cocktails priced at $11 (there are also $8 vodka shots and $5 beers). No password or hidden phone number or anything. Status: Opening today. 1413 K St. NW; website.

2) DUPONT CIRCLE: Turkish restaurant Ankara will make its debut tonight. They'll offer a mix of traditional and more modern Turkish dishes, including a Turkish-inspired Sunday brunch. The restaurant is owned by the Aslanturk family, with chef Jorge Chicas overseeing the menu. Expect dishes such as mezze, seared branzino with caperberries, braised lamb shank with eggplant puree, and more. Lunch will feature sandwiches like a lamb burger and dishes like doner kebob. The'll offer happy hour on the patio, too. Status: Opening today. 1320 19th St. NW; website.