Boss Shepherd’s Is Closing on August 31

Green-and-yellow downstairs oasis Boss Shepherd’s, a Southern-style spot popular for happy hour and pre-theater fare, is inviting fans to come drink the place dry before officially closing on Thursday, August 31.

Its private ownership group informed the staff a few days ago about the decision to shutter. Management told Eater on Tuesday that “market forces” are to blame. Another big hit to business: a slump in the frequency of shows at the neighboring Warner Theatre and others.

It’s unclear what the future holds for the space, accented by Art Deco fixtures and wooden booze barrels.

Named for a civic leader in the Gilded Age, Boss Shepherd’s opened in 2014 to rave reviews. Washington Post restaurant critic Tom Sietsema initially called it one of his top 10 favorite dining destinations in the city, but downgraded his opinion of the place last year.

A farewell event is set to kick off at 3 p.m. on its last day of business, with all drinks — ranging from top-shelf liquor to fancy wines — being offered for just $5 (cash only). Its back bar features two five-gallon barrels of A. Smith Bowman reserve whiskey, so drunk goodbyes are likely.

All food left in the kitchen will be whipped up and served for free, including one of its mainstay dishes: fried chicken.

Photo by Tierney Plumb for Eater DC