Dim Sum Standby Oriental East Is Closing September 30

There’s a slew of new restaurants on the way, but some neighborhoods are also down a favorite gathering place. The latest departure: dim sum source Oriental East has announced that it will be closing in Silver Spring, after 27 years in business, at the end of the month.

COLUMBIA HEIGHTS—Homegrown Mexican chain Taqueria Distrito Federal closed its shop in Columbia Heights last month, decamping from the area, per PoPville, due to a rent hike. TDF continues serving tacos and burritos in Petworth (805 Kennedy Street NW).

DUPONT CIRCLE—Neighborhood Restaurant Group closed its standalone burger stand, Red Apron Burger Bar, this past weekend. The nascent burger operation, which replaced NRG’s former doughnuts and fried chicken shop, Golden Brown Delicious, is expected to now supplement the dining experience at sibling establishment Eatbar on Barracks Row.

PENNSYLVANIA AVE NW—Southern-themed Boss Shepherd’s closed on August 31. The critical darling earned praise early on for its signature fried chicken but was apparently unable to overcome “market forces.”

SILVER SPRING—After a quarter century of producing steamed dumplings and stir-fried dishes, Oriental East is shutting down on Saturday, September 30. Management mentions upcoming renovations to the surrounding shopping center as a factor, but also left the door open to possibly resurfacing elsewhere.

“If the opportunity arises, we hope to serve you again in the future,” the owners wrote in a farewell note posted at the restaurant.