Creme Cafe closed its 15-year-old U Street NW dining room late last year as the building was torn down to make way for a new apartment development. But the American establishment with a Southern twist, now dubbed Creme Restaurant & Bar, has already found a new home at 2436 14th St. NW.

Owner Tegist Alayew says the new location, which opened yesterday, gives the restaurant an additional 30 seats. She’s also working to open an outdoor patio, but it may not debut until next year, depending on permitting. In the next few days, Creme will roll out a more seasonal menu beyond the opening offerings. The new menu will include healthier and lighter items, like a kale salad, fruit plates, and fresh fish. Favorites from the old location, like shrimp and grits, short ribs with potato gratin, and chicken and waffles, all remain.

The restaurant is open from 5 p.m. until 11 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. Weekend brunch begins at 10 a.m.

“We’d love to have our customers come back to us,” Alayew says.

Photo courtesy Creme Cafe