Marvin, named after DC son Marvin Gaye, is one of the latest lounge/bistro additions to open on the U Street corridor. It’s been a little bit since a place popped up that was a little bigger, had a DJ and some dancing so people have been lining up to see what the deal is . Marvin is located at 2007 14th Street NW.

Cost – $$

Service – B
The service is pretty much what you would expect with a crowded bar, however, the staff seems to try to do a good job without an attitude.

Food – B
The restaurant on the first floor has a mixed menu featuring Belgian items and soul food. I happen to like both so I enjoyed the variety. There are over 30 types of Belgian beers which is a very good thing in my book.

Decor – B
The restaurant is where the homage to Marvin Gaye takes place. Again it’s the Belgian/soul mix with a collection of photos paired with chalk boards and large mirrors. Upstairs has photos of other musicians and small rounds with high back benches.

Feel – A-
Just like 18th Street Lounge and Local 16, the upstairs patio is what makes the place really work. It has been crowded on weekends but I still found it possible to carve out a spot to talk with friends without having to shift around to let people through. The music is decent which makes for a decent vibe.

What’s the Buzz:

January 7, 2008 – Marvin’s (Chocolate Milk) – A few weekends ago some friends and I went out for drinks at Marvin’s. For those of you that haven’t yet been to there it’s a Marvin Gaye themed restaurant/bar brought to by the Thievery Corporation (the same guys that own 18th Street Lounge). Full Article…

October 22, 2007 – Meet Marvin for Real this Time (Prince of Petworth) – Arguably the most anticipated new bar and restaurant, Marvin, has opened on 14th Street just north of U Street. This was the bar that had the soft opening last week. If you like Eighteenth Street Lounge and Local 16 you are going to love this place. Full article…

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