Truxton Inn Debuts May 2 With Cocktails, Charcuterie

Truxton Inn, one of the most anticipated openings of the spring, brings an upscale drinking option to Bloomingdale on Tuesday, May 2.

Lots of eye candy is packed into the small 50-seat space — such as a sleek hunter green bar top, framed fox-hunting portraits, books on cocktail culture, globes, and worn-in leather and velvet seating options parked atop oriental carpets. Meanwhile, there’s also a paperback copy of Jaws 2, a wallpaper map of the District proudly displayed upon entry, and Sriracha popcorn to snack on.

Think: secretive London hotel bar-meets-hipster D.C.

“We wanted it to feel like a place that’s been here for a long time, but it also has a modern feel to it,” said owner Matt Weiss, who also runs McClellan’s Retreat, 201 Bar and Barrel.

Light bites ($5.50 to $22) include assorted kolache (half-smoke, brisket and egg), fun popcorn flavors like salt and vinegar, and a charcuterie/cheese plate dubbed “Ewe Have to be Kidding Me” (blue, Brie, Hooks Triple Play, prosciutto, chorizo, saucisson sec).

At the centerpiece is its cocktail program, helmed by bar man Brian Nixon (McClellan's). The 12-item menu has two sides — one for classic cocktails, and the other for Nixon's versions of those same cocktails. Get a Manhattan for $11, or one for $25 with Whistle Pig Barrel 276 that Nixon expects to blow through in a few months’ time.

Dim mood lighting emanates from retro wall fixtures, but brighter days are ahead; An attached outdoor patio will bring another 50 seats into the mix some time this summer.

Status: Opening at 4 p.m. 251 Florida Avenue NW; website.