One mixologist is joining Dōgon by Kwame Onwuachi to create his own signature drinks.
According to a press release, acclaimed mixologist Derek Brown is collaborating with the restaurant to develop a series of drinks for the highly-anticipated opening of Salamander Washington DC, slated for late summer.
What does this mean in the grand scheme of things? The announcement “marks a double homecoming with Onwuachi returning to the nation’s capital for a culinary experience inspired by DC Surveyor Benjamin Banneker and his heritage to the West African Dōgon tribe, while DC native Brown showcases his skills in the District for the first time since closing his famed Columbia Room bar in 2017.”
This new restaurant with Brown will serve vibrant cuisine that highlights the Afro-Caribbean vibes, drawing from Onwuachi’s unique Nigerian, Jamaican, Trinidadian and Creole background.
Additionally, Brown and Onwuachi have partnered to create a cocktail program that features Black-owned spirits and drinks.
“I am so excited to finally collaborate with the great Derek Brown and tap him to create Dōgon’s cocktail program,” said Onwuachi. “Derek is celebrated for his ability to create drinks that combine seasonal ingredients, classic mixes and attention to craftsmanship. I can’t wait for people to pair his creations with Dōgon’s cuisine and celebrate all the cultures within DC’s four quadrants.”
Brown’s name is aligned with sensational cocktails and phenomenal drinking establishments in the nation’s capital. Also, he also co-owned The Passenger, Mockingbird Hill, Eat the Rich, and Southern Efficiency, and was named Bartender of the Year by Imbibe Magazine. Brown works diligently to assist in passing “a proclamation with DC City Council to name the Rickey as the official cocktail of Washington, DC.”
How did all this get started for the mixologist? Well, he is the founder of Positive Damage, Inc., which is a company dedicated to creating a culture of mindful drinking and making room for everyone at the bar. He was also the Chief Spirits Advisor for the National Archives Foundation from 2015-2020.
“I’ve been a huge fan of Kwame’s since his very first restaurant, which was located close to me in the Shaw neighborhood of DC,” said Brown. “For Dōgon, I took a backseat and listened to his vision so I could create a seamless experience. The quality of his food has driven my direction and I tried to utilize aspects of his culinary style alongside our shared love of Washington, DC.”
