The Sovereign, Park Lane Tavern, More Opening

1) GEORGETOWN: Bring on the beer — it's opening night for The Sovereign, Neighborhood Restaurant Group's ode to Belgian food and beer. The two-level space (tour it here) focuses the bistro portion of things on the lower level. Chef Peter Smith (veteran of PS7's) has prepared a menu of Dutch-style mussels in a variety of flavors, braised dishes like carbonnade and coq a vin, a "bicky" burger made of ground pork and beef, braised rabbit and more. Many dishes actually incorporate beer into the food.

The drink menu at the Sovereign may focus on beer, but it doesn't neglect to offer unique wine and cocktail options, either. The Belgian beers (50 on draft) highlight everything from unknown producers to American-style Belgians. Genever, or Dutch gin, dominates the cocktail menu (there will also be absinthe service). Biodynamic wines are a focus area, too. Status: Opening tonight. 1206 Wisconsin Ave. NW; website.

2) CLARENDON: Park Lane Tavern has opened in Arlington. There are two other locations in Virginia of the European bar and eatery. Status: Certified open. 3227 Washington Blvd. Arlington, Va.; website.

3) DUPONT CIRCLE: Woof Den Sports Bar is Dupont's newest gay bar. It's located below Salty Dog Tavern (same owner). Status: Open. 1723 Connecticut Ave. NW; website.