Georgetown, DC, September 30, 2025
News Summary
Reverie, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Georgetown, announced its permanent closure effective October 4. Chef Johnny Spero confirmed the news on social media, following the restaurant’s brief revival after extensive renovations. Reverie gained acclaim for its vegetable-focused menu, particularly a $190 ten-course tasting option. Despite its initial successes, the restaurant’s closure reflects the increasing challenges within the D.C. dining scene, where establishments are increasingly shutting down due to operational costs. Spero hopes for a new tenant to continue Reverie’s legacy.
Georgetown, DC – Reverie, a Michelin-starred restaurant located in Georgetown, will permanently close its doors on October 4, as confirmed by chef Johnny Spero via social media. This closure follows the restaurant’s recent but brief revival after a year-long hiatus due to a fire.
Reverie first opened in 2018, quickly gaining recognition and earning a Michelin star in the spring of 2022. This accolade highlighted its culinary excellence and innovative approach to cuisine. However, shortly after receiving this prestigious award, the establishment faced a significant setback when a fire led to an extended closure for renovations.
After undergoing major renovations that included a redesigned kitchen and dining space, Reverie reopened with a new emphasis on a vegetable-focused menu, which sought to elevate plant-based dishes. At its closure, the restaurant featured a $190, ten-course vegetable tasting menu designed to celebrate seasonal ingredients.
Although chef Spero has not disclosed specific reasons for the closure, he emphasized that the decision was made on his own terms. He plans to offer a final tasting menu in September, a farewell celebration that aims to encapsulate the essence of Reverie and its culinary journey.
Reverie’s closure adds to an unsettling trend in the D.C. dining scene, with the city witnessing a surge in restaurant closures due to increasing operational costs. Recent data indicates that two restaurants are closing each week, creating a challenging environment for establishments, especially high-end venues like Reverie.
Located on Cherry Hill Lane, just south of the C&O Canal in Georgetown, Reverie has been widely regarded as one of the top dining destinations in the area. Its Michelin star distinguished it as part of the elite culinary landscape of Washington, D.C. The closure of Reverie marks it as the second Michelin-starred restaurant in the region to shut down this year, following Tail Up Goat in Adams Morgan.
Chef Spero has expressed a profound emotional connection to Reverie, stating that the restaurant helped him find his voice within the culinary world. Looking ahead, he hopes that a new tenant can take over the space and continue the restaurant’s legacy.
For those wishing to experience Reverie one last time, reservations for its final weeks of service can still be made through the restaurant’s website.
FAQ
When will Reverie close?
Reverie will permanently close on October 4.
What is the reason for Reverie’s closure?
The specific reasons for the closure have not been disclosed, but chef Johnny Spero emphasized that the decision was made on his own terms.
What type of menu does Reverie currently serve?
Reverie’s current menu includes a $190, ten-course vegetable tasting menu.
Can I still make reservations at Reverie?
Yes, current reservations can still be made through Reverie’s website for its remaining weeks of service.
Key Features of Reverie
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Opening Year | 2018 |
| Michelin Star | Earned in Spring 2022 |
| Closing Date | October 4 |
| Menu Type | $190 Ten-Course Vegetable Tasting Menu |
| Location | Cherry Hill Lane, Georgetown |
| Current Trend in D.C. Dining | Two restaurant closures per week due to operational challenges |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WMBF News: Front Porch Restaurant Closing
- DC News Now: El Centro Closing
- WUSA9: Reverie Closing
- MSN: Reverie’s Closure Announcement
- WTOP: Reverie Closing Report
- Wikipedia: Michelin Star
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