“From staffers to senators, we want to be a real hub on the Hill,” says August Paro. He’s readying to open Stanton & Greene at 319 Pennsylvania Ave SE on Monday, March 9. We snapped him (right) with business partner Jared Rager before mock service on Tuesday. The team is also behind the nearby Beuchert’s Saloon and Sonoma. August headed up the dramatic makeover from the dark and dank Pour House to a naturally lit space with a classic feel. The first floor has a bistro atmosphere, but while food is a focus, Stanton & Greene is first and foremost a cocktail bar.

Talented barman Erik Holzherr was called upon to build the drink program. He’s behind well-regarded bars like Wisdom and Church & State. Drinks lean a little towards brown liquor, but gin makes an appearance in what August predicts will be a big seller—the Rochambeau with Bluecoat Gin, Aperol and Maurin Quina. “Erik’s attitude and palette are perfect for us,” August tells us. “His drinks aren’t ingredients slapped together with kitschy names.” Drinks can be enjoyed on the first floor, and the rustic and expansive second floor when a private event isn’t underway. Down the line, the basement level will morph into a higher-end cocktail experience they’re reluctant to call a speakeasy.