capitol hill

When Washington, D.C., restaurateur Richard Cervera filed for personal bankruptcy last year, he didn’t tell the court that he had gained a slice of ownership in several Capitol Hill restaurants just nine days prior.

Nor did he mention that he was negotiating a $200,000-a-year salary with the other owners who teamed up to buy the storied Hawk ‘n’ Dove, Molly Malone’s and six other restaurants from Mr. Cervera’s brother, Xavier.

Investors who own the storied Hawk ‘n’ Dove bar and other Capitol Hill eating spots owe more than $9 million to D.C. restaurateur Xavier Cervera and his partners who sold the restaurants to them in late 2012.

During a hearing held Wednesday afternoon at the Washington, D.C., bankruptcy court, lawyers for restaurant owner Barrack’s Row Entertainment said Chapter 11 would protect the company while its leaders negotiate to lower the debt owed to the former owners.