Explore an American take on classic German drinking spots at Franklin Hall, the cavernous 5,600-square-foot restaurant opening inside the Manhattan Laundry Building this weekend.
Restaurant developer Tin Shop’s latest project at 1346 Florida Avenue NW is a playground for drinkers, with 24 drafts, an industrial vibe, couches, TVs, and fireplaces. Most beers are available in liter mugs. The spacious establishment can pack in 220 eaters and drinkers, with a 24-seat patio in the works. Tin Shop, the design firm also behind Smoked & Stacked, Big Chief, and Lost & Found, tells Eater that chef Matt Baker from the forthcoming Gravitas in Ivy City served as the consulting chef.
Franklin Hall’s featured gourmet sausages are available "dressed" with assorted specialty toppings. Bar bites include Frito pie with chili and cheese, and churros with dulce de leche. (See menu below.) Weekly highlights include trivia on Monday nights, along with weekday happy hour from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Efficient and modern features are designed to please fast-paced teleworkers in the building, with both ends of the bar sporting speed lines with no stools. And the bar accepts Apple and Android pay at the speed lines.
Douglas Development’s Manhattan Laundry Building will get more restaurant action this fall with the arrival of Maydan, Compass Rose’s sophomore establishment.