There’s a new spot in D.C.’s Union Market that will have folks feeling good inside and out: Manifest 002, an eclectic blend of a barbershop, clothing store and chic dining located at 1242 3rd St NE, Washington, D.C.
A head-to-toe experience, this new Northeast D.C. spot is another venture for KJ Hughes, Susan Morgan, and Brian Merritt, creators of “Manifest 001” in Adams Morgan.
“With Manifest 002, we’ve created more than a space,” said KJ Hughes, founder and CEO of Manifest. “Every element is meant to inspire presence, connection, and expression.”
The Manifest 002 Concept
The barbershop and men’s clothing boutique is located at Manifest 002’s street-level entrance.
Plush barber chairs are in a spacious area with natural light streaming in from large arched windows.
Walk a short distance to the clothes, which are not crowded together so that one can see what can be purchased.
With “high-concept fashion” in mind, Manifest 002 carries designers such as Marni, MM6 Maison Margiela, Casablanca, Diesel, Willy Chavarria, and in-demand footwear like Hoka, Saucony, and Salomon.
The space is serene and painted in soft colors for both the barbershop and clothing areas.
Further, as patrons are being groomed or shopping for some new clothes, there is a bar with glass shelves so they can take moments to sip and relax.
A winding, mauve-lacquered staircase leads to the heart of the experience: a refined world of fashion, a softly lit cocktail bar, an intimate speakeasy, and a mood-rich private dining room called “h(ours).” Manifest 002 was designed by the acclaimed firm INC Architecture & Design.
“The space is a living artwork where sculptural forms, atmospheric light, luminous color, and inspired creative intent come together to embrace community and the quiet power of belonging,” said Adam Rolston, creative director and founding partner of INC Architecture & Design.
Food That Enlightens
Celebrated chef and partner Erik Bruner-Yang oversees the Manifest 002 culinary operation. He’s a multi-James Beard Award finalist whose worldly concept Providencia and other ventures have earned him spots on Bon Appétit’s coveted Best New Restaurant and Best New Bar lists.
“This is the first time Manifest is bringing hospitality into the heart of its concept, and I’m honored to help lead that evolution,” said Bruner-Yang.
Group tasting selections include new ways of preparing familiar dishes like: oysters on the half shell prepared like a collard greens rockefeller, and chicken and dumplings with spiced gravy, shrimp, and pickled okra.
Bruner-Yang has a reputation for pushing boundaries beyond what is expected.
The environment in the main dining room, with a capacity of 66, felt like being in someone’s home.
Diners can see through an opening similar to a pass through where the staff is busy preparing drinks and meals.
Manifest 002 is the place where one will come out well-groomed, well-dressed, and well-fed. It’s not just for men, it’s for everyone to enjoy.
“The food is a love letter to the city, neighborhoods, its contrasts, and its creativity,” Bruner-Yang told The Informer. “We want people to come here and feel that story in every bite.”
For more information about Manifest 002, go to manifest.us
Source: Washington Informer
