Palette 22, Alexandria Restaurant Partners’ dining concept blending global cuisine with an immersive art experience, announces its grand opening in the Union Market District at 400 Morse Street NE. A reimagined version of ARP’s Arlington eatery of the same name, this addition to Washington D.C.’s culinary scene will welcome guests starting March 14, offering a unique amalgamation of global flavors and local artistic talent.
“What makes Union Market District so wonderful is the neighborhood’s diversity of use; it offers events, retailers and most attractive to us, a dynamic art scene and a selection of amazing restaurants,” said Scott Shaw, ARP partner in a statement. “We literally couldn’t have designed a better location for a second Palette 22.”
The new location will build on the brand’s celebration of “food. art. fun.”, with Jamie Farley leading art concepts. A curated Artist-in-Residence (AIR) program will provide a rotating gallery of works, spanning various mediums, and will feature over 30 esteemed local artists like Kimberly Cooper (@kimsydesigns), Will Sahla (@wills.art.dc), Melanie Royster (@melroyartllc), and Marc Pekala (@marcsart_) among others. The restaurant’s bustling art studio creates a gallery-like atmosphere where guests can observe and interact directly with local creators, as well as purchase artwork on display. Workshops showcasing different creative techniques, artist talks, and compelling collaborative pairings between artists and chefs will provide patrons the unique opportunity to delve into the creative process.
From the palette to the palate, the kitchen is led by Chef Santiago Lopez. An extensive selection of small plates provide global influence and are intended to be mixed, matched and shared. An assortment of six “Dips” are served with house naan while “Cold Dishes” present an assortment of flavor profiles ranging from a Peruvian-inspired Steak Tartare Causa to a Vietnamese-inspired Green Papaya Salad with jumbo lump crab, spicy lime dressing togarashi and spiced peanuts. A “Robata Grill” section brings Charred Octopus, Roasted Caraflex Cabbage and Shiso Wrapped Chicken Thigh dishes to life with a selection of “Hot Plates” that include a Tempura Corn, Taiwanese Roasted Baby Carrots, Turkish Flatbread with spiced ground lamb and Rock Shrimp & Pork Tortellini. The beverage program presents a list of beers, wines and signature libations including a seasonal Sangria.
The Morse Street building carries a family lineage, originally purchased in 1931 by Fred Kolker until it was sold to ARP. Preserving its historic nature, ARP worked with Gensler design firm to honor the building’s original architectural elements, and The National Park Service has recognized the project for its restoration of the building’s exterior, including the brick façade and industrial windows. A nod to the property’s past and present, artwork by artist Courtney Kolker – the granddaughter of Fred – will adorn the lounge area along with a commemorative plaque, and two flags, one representing Palette 22 and the other Kolker Live Poultry, which pays homage to the former family business.
