Sign of the Whale Reopens, But It’s Not What You Remember

If you’ve lived in DC for any amount of time, chances are you’ve made some memories at that 18th & M Street institution, Sign of the Whale.  So when it announced (for like the twelfth time) that it was closing — but for good this time — there was much lamentation over the death of one of DC’s favorite dive bars.

And now the good news.

Sign of the Whale is back!  But not like you remember.  The former late-night spot has all-new ownership and has been made over to give its multi-level bar a fresh face and a new life.

Sure you’ll go back for nostalgic nights when it officially re-opens on March 1, 2020, but you’ll also enjoy some interesting sushi and southern food fusion that will now be offered.

“Pork belly pops with pickled watermelon, fried oysters with spicy ginger kewpie, okonomiyaki (Japanese pancakes usually served with protein), and selections from the grill such as lamb chops, octopus and jumbo scallops are just a few examples of offerings to look forward to,” according to the restaurants’ news release.

The sake and craft cocktails that will now be available elevate the bar offerings past your usual rum and coke concoction, though — that said — Sign of the Whale’s signature Gin & Tonic is one of the finest we’ve ever tasted.  (ProTip: If you love your drinks super boozy, try the Hiroshima!)

The all-new Sign of the Whale will be open 7 days a week from 11 am to 2 am.