Former home to Ruppert's Restaurant available for lease

In mid 2008 the Ruppert family, which has owned property on the 1000 block of 7th Street NW since the 1880s, had begun to ramp down their Warehouse Theater and Cafe operations in anticipation of selling their properties to Douglas Jemal. With the real estate slowdown this fizzled and Douglas Development is looking to push ahead on the development concept for Squares 450 and 451 solely with properties they presently own.

With the change in plans the Warehouse Theater (1021 7th Street NW) has reopened for business. However as Paul Ruppert focuses on the launch of his new Room 11 wine bar in Columbia Heights the former Ruppert's Restaurant space at 1017 7th Street NW has been placed on the market for lease.


From the Craigslist ad (which has rates and contact info):

A total of 3000 SF for lease. First floor (2200 SF) and basement (800 SF) in a historic building across the street from the Convention Center. Home to the acclaimed Ruppert's restaurant for many years. Dining room currently seats 65. Spacious kitchen allows for any cuisine.

Lease 5 years + 5 year option

Ruppert's Restaurant opened in 1992, and was sold to chef John Cochran in 1994. Cochran operated the restaurant until 2002, turning it into one of Washington's best restaurants. Since the restaurant closed the Rupperts have been using the venue as a music and performance space. They hope to attract an independent restaurateur to lease the space.