Business Ins & Outs: Jinya Ramen, Nuts Factory, Cottage House; Los Cuates
By • January 26, 2026 0 262
In: Jinya Ramen Bar
Restaurateur Sam Shoja opened a seventh location in the Washington area when he brings Jinya Ramen to 1525 Wisconsin Ave. NW, formerly the space for Via Umbria, the Italian restaurant and market.
Jinya features its signature slow-cooked broths, Japanese whisky and a menu with ramen and small plates — and tells: “Located along Wisconsin Avenue, the Jinya is ideal for locals, students, and visitors looking for authentic ramen, small plates, and craft cocktails in a stylish, energetic setting. Whether you’re craving classic tonkotsu, chicken ramen, or vegetarian options, Jinya Ramen Bar Georgetown offers a bold, flavor-forward destination for ramen lovers in D.C.”
[Editor’s note: On Thursday, The Georgetowner will publish a review of Jinya Ramen Bar in its newsletter. On Wednesday, Feb. 11, the Citizens Association of Georgetown will hold its “Take Over the Bar” on Jinya — 5 to 7 p.m., second floor.]
Nuts Factory store manager Rena Charles and Zander Theodoropoulos. Georgetowner photo.
In: Nuts Factory
Next to the Georgetown Inn, Nuts Factory opened last week at 1326 Wisconsin Ave. NW, former site of Towne Wine & Liquor which moved up the avenue a few years ago.
The Israel-based business offers “a large selection of nuts, dried fruits, spices, olives, chocolates, candies, coffee, tea, legumes and more in bulk … Today, we are third-generation family-owned business and we are proud to bring this great concept to the U.S.” There are more than 15 shops in New York, New Jersey and Massachusetts.
Along with the Dubai chocolate, we have already enjoyed the superlative halva.
In: Cottage House Ethiopian Cuisine
Cottage House Ethiopian Cuisine has opened at 1529 Wisconsin Ave. NW. The building most recently housed City Sliders — and before that, Zannchi, Yummy Crawfish and Puro Cafe.
The new restaurant tells us: “Born and raised in the vibrant heart of Ethiopia, our founders bring a lifelong love of hospitality to Cottage House Ethiopian Cuisine. With a background as a registered nurse — a profession rooted in care and compassion — our founder discovered a deeper passion for sharing that same spirit through the rich traditions of Ethiopian culture, food, and one of its greatest gifts to the world: coffee.”
In: Lumier’s Chimney Cake
A traditional European pastry has been Americanized as Lumier’s Chimney Cake opened last month at 3279 1/2 M St. NW. The chimney cake — Kürtőskalács — is baked as sweet yeast dough is spun like a cylinder. It is then filled with ice cream, fruit and covered with cinnamon — and more.
Lumier’s tells us: “Originally founded in Georgia, our family-owned small business has proudly expanded the tradition of Chimney Cakes and sweet treats … With over 10 years of experience in the ice cream industry, our passion for dessert led us on a journey to the heart of America — Washington, D.C. — where we set out to share our love for fresh, handcrafted delights with locals and visitors alike.”
Out: Los Cuates
Los Cuates, the festive Mexican restaurant at 1564 Wisconsin Ave. NW since 2008, closed its doors two weeks ago, as its furniture and kitchen appliances went to auction.
Coming: Uniqlo
After a little bit of musical chairs going on with some retail locations, the Japanese casual wear retailer Uniqlo is set to return to Georgetown at 3262 M St. NW, formerly the spot for J.Crew, which moved to 3077 M St. NW, formerly the corner spot for Brooks Brothers and Showfields.
Coming: PopUp Bagels
Connecticut-based bagel and schmear shop, PopUp Bagels is coming to 1078 Wisconsin Ave. NW, formerly the space for Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls and, before that, Paul Bakery. The winner of Brooklyn Bagelfest “Best Bagel” two years in a row, PopUp Bagels also features specially favored cream cheeses with its “no frills, perfect” creations.
Coming: Puree Juice Bar
Set to open in the former space of Sobiato at 1511 Wisconsin Ave. NW. is Puree Juice Bar, which has other locations in Virginia and Maryland.
Coming: The Salty
The Salty — setting up at the former Peet’s Coffee shop at 33rd and M — is a donut shop from Miami with intense flavors. The shop says: “Our story begins in 2014, when Amanda Pizarro and (then boyfriend, now husband) Andy Rodriguez spent all their time (outside of attending school) dreaming about creating a community gathering place centered around donuts, coffee, and good vibes. A place you could have a first date, celebrate a birthday, or cheer you up after a long day.”
