Folklore and Southern food will entwine at Eatonville, Andy Shallal’s upcoming eatery, slated to open in May across the street from his blockbuster Busboys & Poets in DC. An homage to author Zora Neale Hurston, it’s named for her Florida hometown, one of the first all–African-American communities incorporated after the Civil War, and is decorated with colorful murals of the town and its legends (including a re-creation of the “lying porch” that appeared in Hurston’s work). In keeping with this tradition, Shallal plans to have storytelling dinners featuring dishes inspired by the narratives. Aided by Top Chef contestant Carla Hall, Shallal conducted a competition to choose a chef who can “put a story on the plate.” The winner will be announced in a few weeks. Watch the video for a preview of the art-filled interior and the chef contest (2021 14th St. NW, Washington, DC).