Help Save The Jerk Pit in Adam's Morgan

Operation: “Save The Pit-DC” – A Call to Action

In August 2024, a dream took root in the heart of Washington, D.C.—a dream born from passion, purpose, and the indomitable spirit of a woman who once called this city her home. Mrs. Lisa Waddell Nash, affectionately known as Miss Lisa, a proud alumna of the illustrious Howard University, chose to give back to the city that helped shape her journey by opening The Jerk Pit Adams Morgan.

Though she began her path at Howard studying communications with aspirations of law, Miss Lisa’s soul stirred toward something different—something deeply personal. She wanted to create a space that felt like home. A place where the warmth of the Caribbean radiates from every dish, every drink, and every interaction. And so, The Jerk Pit was born—first in College Park in 2005, and now, over 20 years later, in Adams Morgan.

This new location isn't just a restaurant—it’s a sanctuary. A vibrant, three-level Caribbean oasis where the food is rich, the cocktails bold, the music alive, and the culture palpable. It’s a love letter to Jamaica, handcrafted daily by a team of passionate Black women committed to hospitality, heritage, and heart.

But now, this dream is in danger.

After just 9 months, we face the unimaginable: closure. With high rent, climbing utility costs, and lingering post-pandemic financial strain, The Jerk Pit Adams Morgan is on the brink of shutting its doors by May 31st—unless we act together.

That’s why we, the employees, have launched this GoFundMe campaign to keep this beacon of culture and community alive. Our goal is to raise enough funds to cover immediate expenses—overdue rent, utilities, and taxes—so we can continue to serve the DMV and preserve the legacy Miss Lisa worked so hard to build.

We believe in the power of community. We believe in the beauty of resilience. And we believe in the truth of the Jamaican proverb:

“Every mikkle mek a muckle” – every little bit counts.

Whether you can give $5 or $500, your contribution matters. If you can’t give, please share our story. Help us reach fellow alumni, fellow Jamaicans, food lovers, and everyone who believes in lifting up small businesses with big hearts.

Let’s not allow this tropical gem—one of the few rooftop spaces in the area—to disappear. Let’s keep the flame of Caribbean flavor and culture burning in the heart of Adams Morgan. Let’s Save The Pit-DC.

From our Jerk Pit family to yours,

Thank you for standing with us!

Thank you for saving our space!

Thank you for keeping our dream alive! #SavethePit #operationsavethepit