TaKorean is shedding one of its stores today. Founder Mike Lenard says the space at 1301 U St. NW “wasn’t the right fit for the business at this time.” There are still locations of the homegrown fast casual chain in Metro Center, Navy Yard, and Union Market.

TaKorean also recently expanded to Philadelphia, where they have a stall in the newly renovated Bourse Food Hall. 

“We will continue to look for other growth opportunities in the D.C. metro area in 2019,” Lenard says.

TaKorean serves rice bowls and tacos featuring Korean-style meats and slaws. 

The U Street NW corridor has proven to be a difficult location to operate a restaurant that depends on lunch business.

The closure also comes at a time when fast-casual chains are struggling in the city. All Taylor Gourmet sandwich shops closed this year and Buredo has consolidated its operations to two locations after expanding rapidly. 

TaKorean, 1301 U St. NW; takorean.com