Turncoat, a “clandestine speakeasy where the spirit of the Roaring Twenties comes to life,” will hold its grand opening on Wednesday, January 24 at 5pm.
The prohibition style bar is located adjacent to the recently opened Heights Food Hall at 5406 Wisconsin Ave in Chevy Chase.
Per Common Plate Hospitality Group: “The name “Turncoat” harks back to the days of Prohibition when bootleggers and speakeasies thrived. It evokes the spirit of those who turned informants during that era, creating a sense of intrigue and mystery around the venue.
Step into the Turncoat Speakeasy and journey into a hidden chapter of Washington D.C.’s history, uncovering the secret story of the Rock Creek Railway Line. During Prohibition, while Maryland was “wet,” areas like Chevy Chase and Bethesda had limited access to alcohol, leading D.C.-area gangs, including the notorious Foggy Bottom Gang, to exploit the situation.
Rumors suggest that Railway conductors may have used a subtle “coat-turning” signal to discreetly offer prohibited purchases. Today, experience this hidden history and enjoy libations in comfort, knowing the Volstead Act is long gone.
Turncoat boasts an extensive cocktail and culinary program designed to captivate and delight its guests. The beverage program, curated by renowned mixologist Dan Marlowe, who serves as Beverage Director for Common Plate Hospitality Group, features show-stopping and innovative cocktails that will take your taste buds on a journey through time. These Prohibition-inspired cocktails offer a tantalizing journey through time and flavor. The Gibby, with its blend of Lustau Bianco and Madeira Barrel Aged Gin, strikes a balance between sweet and dry, heightened by a house-pickled Gibson onion. The Tranquility Cup combines the warmth of Suntory Toki Whisky with root spice syrup and lemon juice, creating a soothing elixir perfect for relaxation. For those seeking indulgence, the Black Gold, with its chocolate bitters and pure maple syrup, is a decadent delight, complemented by Virginia Highlands Single Malt Whisky and a rim adorned with gold foam. The Billie Holiday offers a touch of citrusy elegance with orange bitters and prickly pear syrup, elevated by Catoctin Creek Rye Whisky. Finally, the Coppers & Gangsters playfully combines orgeat syrup, lemon juice, and Empress 1908 Gin, topped with a creamy creamsicle ISI foam. Each of these cocktails is a tribute to the bygone era of clandestine bars and creative mixology, promising a taste of nostalgia with every sip.
Moreover, Turncoat’s dishes are a symphony of flavors and textures that leave guests craving for more. The Bootleg Burger Sliders are a delightful fusion of Kobe beef, Tillamook cheddar, pickled chilis, cucumbers, and sautéed onions, combining the rich umami of the beef with the tangy kick of the cheddar and the refreshing crunch of pickled vegetables. The Sleep with the Fishes elevates grade A tuna to new heights, featuring a luscious avocado smash, zesty spicy mayo, all nestled within delicate wonton tacos. Shrooming takes you on a journey through earthy depths with wine-braised mushrooms, thyme, garlic, and mixed greens harmoniously coming together in a crispy wonton taco. The Deal with the Devil offers a sinful delight with crispy deviled eggs accompanied by the irresistible sweetness of candied pork belly. Finally, the Run a Fowl Sliders, showcasing crispy chicken thighs, house pickles, and a comeback sauce, provide a satisfying blend of crispy, tangy, and savory elements that make it impossible to resist. Dishes range in price between $15 – $27.
Turncoat promises to offer an upscale experience that sets it apart from other speakeasies in the area. The venue’s design and exclusivity are central to this distinction, providing a high-end ambiance that is sure to captivate this neighborhood’s discerning clientele. The décor includes a dimly lit mural featuring mug shots of famous bootleggers and a bar designed to resemble a Chevy Chase streetcar, a nod to the historical use of streetcars for transporting illicit alcohol.
Custom cages filled with a carefully curated selection of liquor bottles surround the seating area, creating an atmosphere that transports guests back in time to an era of secret gatherings and hidden bars.
“We are thrilled to offer a creative presentation of local and national history taken form in decadent imbibement,” says Marlowe. Take respite at Turncoat knowing that whilst the beverages may taste too good to be legal, prohibition is behind us and the tracks ahead are all-clear!”
Chad Sparrow, Founder of Common Plate Hospitality, adds, “Turncoat represents a new era of speakeasies, where the past meets the present in an atmosphere of style and attraction. We’re excited to share this one-of-a-kind experience with the community.”
Turncoat invites you to step back in time and experience the glamour, intrigue, and exclusivity of the Prohibition era. Join us on January 24th at 5:00 PM for the grand opening and be part of a journey into the past that promises to be like no other.