Whimsical Wine Bar Primrose Gives Brookland a French Twist

Brookland just got a little fancier with this weekend’s debut of new wine bar, Primrose.

The 65-seat drinking spot opened for its first official dinner service on Sunday, November 26, at 3000 12th Street NE. The centerpiece of the pristine and detailed space is vino; its wine list includes 75 selections by the bottle and 15 by the glass, running $9 to $15.

The slice of Paris comes from husband-wife team Sebastian Zutant (former partner and beverage director at Red Hen and All-Purpose) and Lauren Winter of D.C. design house Edit Lab, who sprinkles romantic elements reminiscent of a street-side cafe straight out of the City of Love. Wait staff get in on the European theme via black-and-white striped shirts. Chef Nathan Beauchamp, the driving force behind Tiger Fork and the newly opened Calico, developed a bistro-like menu here.

Photo: Carla Sanchez

Wines hail from small and natural wine producers from France and U.S., including the wine Zutant produces at Virginia winery Early Mountain Vineyards. There’s also four beers on draft — including the Parisian go-to classic Kronenbourg — and classic cocktails like a $9 French 75.

Beauchamp’s menu includes coq au vin (which can be sized to share for $35), steak frites, beef bourguignon, and French onion soup, as well as a selection of charcuterie and cheeses.

Photo: Carla Sanchez

The family-friendly space will grow come spring, when another 35 spots are added on the wrap-around corner patio.

Status: Certified open. 3000 12th Street NE; website.

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