Despite protests from the local Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) and 35 neighbors, Brookland’s Finest Bar and Kitchen (3126-28 Jackson St. near 12th St. NE), the restaurant/bar collaboration from the owners of the popular H and U Street dive bars Solly’s and The Pug, respectively, was granted a liquor license on Wednesday by the Alcohol Beverage Control Board. The establishment hopes to possibly open December 1st.

The Board approved the Tavern license “without conditions,” finding that, contrary to the arguments brought by the protestants, the new restaurant/bar, “in and of itself” wouldn’t negatively impact Brookland’s peace, order, and quiet; property values; and parking and pedestrian/vehicle safety; nor would it lead to an overconcentration of bars in the neighborhood.  Notably, the Board explained that, “it is hard to imagine how the transformation of a vacant,boarded-up commercial establishment into a vibrant, well-run neighborhood restaurant would have a negative impact on property values.” Nearly 150 neighbors had reached their own settlement agreement with earlier this summer dictating some of the establishment’s responsibilities, including that it not advertise drink specials “specifically geared towards college students” (Brookland is home to Catholic University).

Brookland’s Finest, seating 75 with an occupancy of nearly 100, along with a patio fitting 40 folks, aims to be a family-friendly neighborhood restaurant, serving American comfort food breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The Post, PoPville, and the Ward 5 Heartbeat have shared more details about the spot.