WASHINGTON — The Dirty Goose, a U-Street bar that's been a popular spot for D.C.'s LGBTQ+ community, is closing down next month, according to a statement posted by the business on social media.
"After 8 years, The Dirty Goose's flight on U St will come to an end on Sunday, September 8th," the statement reads. The bar had boasted of bringing "the energy of New York City with the laid-back atmosphere of Atlanta" to the District since 2016.
"I'm so sad to see this place go, it was hands-down, truly one of the most comfortable mixed spaces DC had to offer!!!" one social media user said on Instagram.
"This place and the people made me feel confident and supported enough to come out. Forever thankful for you TDG ❤️," Another comment read.
Although the owners did not offer a direct reason in the post, the closure announcement comes amid ongoing difficulties facing the food and beverage industry since the pandemic.
The post goes on to say the bar's journey “has been filled with stress and exhaustion, but those emotions do not even compare to the amount of joy TDG has brought us and, we hope, brought you. Love for our patrons, our staff, our DJs, our non-profit partners and the larger LGBTQ+ community got us through every tough moment of owning and operating a small business in DC. We are forever thankful.”
The bar is now inviting patrons for a last call, promising to keep it "Dirty & Proud" over the next three weeks before closing next month.