“In a livable, walkable neighborhood, you need a corner store,” said former Ward 6 Councilmember and recently retired District official Tommy Wells.
Wells, along with current councilmember Charles Allen (Ward 6-D), was among the many attendees at the Dec. 16 Winter Wonderland market (and tour) at the former Mott’s Market (232 12 St. SE).
There, attendees celebrated a new beginning that will come in the new year. Local entrepreneur Peyton Sherwood plans to open a coffee and sandwich shop/deli/wine shop in the renovated, expanded space. There will also be indoor and outdoor seating. Target date is this summer, hopefully by June or July, Sherwood told the Hill Rag.
The son of veteran journalist Tom Sherwood—who was also on hand–Peyton, 45, lives in the Navy Yard area.
In a press release, Mott’s Market LLC said “Peyton Sherwood’s proposed business plan aligns seamlessly with the Board’s vision of re-establishing Mott’s Market as both a neighborhood market and a community gathering place.”
Peyton Sherwood’s plans include dedicated market space reminiscent of Mott’s previous operations while utilizing the expanded open floor plan and extensive outdoor public spaces. Patrons can anticipate a delightful menu featuring “made-to-order” sandwiches and other prepared foods for take-home or on-site consumption, complemented by a selection of coffee, pastries, wine, and beer available for purchase and enjoyment on-site.
“Our goal for Mott’s Market is to reinvent the traditional corner market, cultivating an inviting atmosphere that stands apart from standard convenience stores,” Sherwood said in a written statement. “We aspire to curate an experience where patrons can relish locally sourced products while fostering a true sense of community.”
Sherwood says he has always been drawn to the idea of creating a corner market. He’s spent his career developing neighborhood taverns and restaurants like Solly’s Tavern, Midlands Beer Garden and most recently, St. Vincent’s wine.
“Transitioning into a market concept feels like a natural next step for me,” Sherwood said. “It’s a chance to further engage with the community in a different, yet familiar setting.This progression allows me to combine my experience in creating welcoming, local gathering spots with the unique charm and utility of a traditional market.
Sherwood said the combination of a long-standing affection for the neighborhood and a desire to create something special on Capitol Hill were what attracted him to Mott’s Market. “Being from DC starting a business there is something I have wanted to do for a long time,” he explained. “I’m very excited to be a part of the Mott’s revitalization where I see the perfect opportunity to bring, not just my vision, but the neighborhood’s vision to life in a part of the city I’ve always really loved.”
Erected in 1916 as a shop and second story home for Samuel Godkin, the building has housed a store ever since. The name “Mott’s” dates to around 1969. So far, no word on what Sherwood’s shop will be called.
Mott’s Market, a neighborhood convenience store for more than a century, closed in March, 2022. Ki and Roy Cho were the last to manage the store.
When the vacant, 3,313 square-foot property went up for sale, a group of Capitol Hill neighbors, led by neighbors that included Michael Skinner, successfully purchased the space. The group also raised money for much needed restoration.
Learn more about the effort to keep Mott’s Market vibrant and get involved by visiting www.mottsmarket.com
[with additional reporting from Elizabeth O’Gorek]
