Chef Vic Chizinga opened his newest restaurant and bar on Friday, a two-level "Afro-Caribbean" bar that will mix the chef's love of food and cocktails. Taking over the former Half-Time Sports Bar, Lydia on H was named in homage to the chef's late mother, and will combine his African roots with Jamaican food. The DC-trained chef honed his career on U Street, working bars and restaurants before starting his own food truck, catering business, and eventually Bin 1301, a nightlife draw on U Street until the pandemic forced its closure.
The 2nd floor, still under construction, will feature live performances, private event space and a clandestine speakeasy, providing a venue for mixology classes the chef has long operated. A tropical back patio facing Maryland Avenue is also in the works. Chef Vic celebrated the soft opening of the restaurant this weekend and expects a grand opening in the coming weeks. City Grid Real Estate represented the landlord in the transaction.
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