Lawyers lawyering: "Prestigious law firm sues burger joint over smell"

"The restaurant is closed because of "a powerful law firm that claims that the smell of our burgers is making it impossible for them to keep up the lawyering business," reads a sign from feisty chef Raynold Mendizabal on its front window. The note is also posted on the Rogue States Web site.

The closing is "pretty crappy," said D.C. resident Joshua Thornhill, who tried to meet a friend for lunch Thursday at the restaurant. "We're going to have to find a new place to eat."

Even amid heavy rain in downtown D.C. Thursday afternoon, passers-by stopped to read Mendizabal's huge sign. Some called the situation "ridiculous" or "unbelievable," while others simply stared. One man took a photograph.

On a street crowded with coffee shops and restaurants -- including Indian, Middle East and Italian cuisines -- many said the odors from Rogue State didn't stand out."