As construction continues at 1837 M Street, N.W., we’ve unearthed some interesting literary tidbits about our new DC home. The former townhouse that now encompasses Chipotle and the soon to be Boqueria was once home to 2 famous writers; Eliza Ruhamah Scidmore and John Dos Passos.

Eliza, an American writer, photographer, geographer, and the first female board member of the National Geographic Society lived there during the 19th century between her numerous trips to Asia.



In fact it was Eliza who first dreamed of planting Japanese Cherry Blossom trees in the Nation’s Capitol. This year’s National Cherry Blossom Festival marks the 100th year of their planting and we are thrilled to be open for and participating in this historic event.

Photo Credit: Jim Brickett

As a child, American writer John Dos Passos and his mother lived in the townhouse for a short time.



Regarded as John’s most important work, Manhattan Transfer chronicles life in Manhattan in the 1920’s and was hailed by D.H. Lawrence as “the best modern book about New York” he had ever read.

As a Manhattan transfer, ourselves, Boqueria is pleased to find a new home in a location rooted in literature and history. Pull up a chair, order some tapas and settle down for a good read!