At Inspīr Embassy Row, assisted living and memory care come together in a refined setting designed to elevate every experience. Residents enjoy thoughtfully crafted residences, five-star amenities, and personalized support — all within a community that nurtures connection, well-being, and growth.
More than a place to live, Inspīr is a place to engage. Inspired by a belief in growth, resilience, and connection, we offer enriching programs like the Mind & Movement Collective — a monthly series that unites residents, caregivers, and community members touched by Parkinson’s disease and related neurological conditions. Through expert insights, practical resources, and supportive conversation, this program reflects our dedication to helping individuals and families thrive together.
RSVP to these events by scanning the QR code. For more information, email embassyrowinfo@inspirsl.com or call 202.293.2100.
UPCOMING SCHEDULE
Speech and Swallowing November 4th | 4:00 PM
Ianessa Humbert, PhD, SLP The Swallowing Wellness Center
The State of Parkinson’s Research – Hybrid/Virtual December 2nd | 4:00 PM
Zoe Butchen, MJFF
The Impact of Music & Art Therapy on Motor Function
January 6th | 4:00 PM
Dana Griff, Neurologic Music Therapy Fellow, MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital
®
Welcome Home
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MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR HOLIDAY SEASON.
The holiday season offers a chance to relax, recharge, and reflect on what matters most— whether it’s family, friends, or personal milestones. As you enjoy this special time, know that we’ll be here when you’re ready to discuss your financial goals. Whether you’re looking to build wealth, optimize your investment strategy, or plan for the year ahead, we’re here to help. Let’s start the conversation.
CON TENTS
The nonprofits that make up Arlington’s social safety net are seeing an increase in need while their funding sources are under duress.
Want to make a difference in your community? Consider donating your time or money to these local charities.
From brisket blends and double smashies to plant-based patties, here are 16 prime spots to satisfy a
Sometimes you need a lawyer. Here are our area’s most respected attorneys, as nominated by their peers in the legal community.
We’re the only independent not-for-prof it health system in Arlington. And the community's generosity keeps
CON TENTS
Cozy
122 Great Spaces
Funky basement wallpaper captures the art of the selfie.
124 Prime Numbers
Let us give thanks for
A century after Prohibition, this local bar is all about moonshine. 24 Familiar Faces
What goes down in a typical day at a pawn shop? Our writer worked a shift to find out. 28 My Life
When a cancer diagnosis hits the “pause” button, there are unanticipated gifts.
The area’s most expensive home sales, plus real-estate trends by ZIP code.
137 Home Plate
Treat your taste buds to Filipino breakfast sandwiches, ube pastries, Spanish tapas and paella.
140 Restaurant Review
This family restaurant is a love letter to the chefs’ grandmother. There’s lots to love. 144 Places to
Consult our dining guide for bitesize write-ups on more than 250 area restaurants and bars near you.
Take the train to Flushing, New York, for a culinary passport to China’s diverse regions.
172 Get Away
Head out for fall foliage, a festive lights spectacular and a stylish stay in a grand hotel.
176 Back Story
The miraculous recovery of an Arlington man who donated part of his brain to science—while he was still alive.
HOLIDAYS. ACCOMPLISHED.
RH
letter from the publisher
Troubling Times
MANY OF YOU ARE FAMILIAR with the nonprofits that make up Arlington’s social safety net, including AFAC, the Arlington Free Clinic, PathForward (formerly A-SPAN) and Doorways. Collectively— and collaboratively—they provide essential services such as food, medical care, shelter and housing to our most vulnerable neighbors. Without this assistance, thousands of people in our community would be at even greater risk than they are today.
That’s why these are such grim times. The Trump administration’s cuts to federal programs and funding have made our local nonprofits’ important work much more difficult. Some organizations have already been “DOGEd”—adversely affected by funding cuts and left scrambling to raise money from other sources, sometimes at a moment’s notice. For others, the disruptions have created an environment of uncertainty and anxiety over what might be coming down the pike. Federal job cuts and the cancellation of federal contracts have also put pressure on corporate and private donors. So that’s the bad news.
The other bad news? The need for social services is (or will be) increasing because of cuts to rental and food assistance, Medicare, Medicaid and other federal programs.
So we decided to investigate how these policy shifts are playing out in Arlington. In our cover story, “Without a Net,” Eliza Tebo provides an indepth look at the current state of affairs for our local nonprofits, their dedicated staffs and the people they serve. The pressures are profound and the
forecast doesn’t look good. They need the community’s help more than ever.
In addition to the safety-net organizations in our cover story, there are many other nonprofits doing important work in our area. Please refer to our latest Guide to Giving for a rundown of some 40+ local nonprofits that provide services to the community. If you find one that inspires you, consider donating your time or money. We’d like to extend our gratitude to the Arlington Community Foundation for helping us compile this helpful resource.
My role at Arlington Magazine has connected me to many of these groups. I’ve served (or still serve) on the boards of PathForward, the Arlington Chamber of Commerce, the Leadership Center of Arlington, YMCA Arlington and the Arlington Community Foundation. I’m also on the Arlington Free Clinic’s community council and special gifts committee. I can vouch for the skill and dedication these organizations bring to their important work.
I hope you find our November/December “Giving Back” issue to be helpful and informative. As always, we love hearing from you. I can be reached at greg.hamilton@arlingtonmagazine.com. Letters to the editor should be sent to jenny.sullivan@ arlingtonmagazine.com. Thank you for being a reader. Have a great fall and holiday season.
Greg Hamilton Publisher & Owner
Please welcome Evan Lacopo to Corcoran McEnearney
We are delighted to share that Evan Lacopo has joined Corcoran McEnearney as Managing Broker of the Alexandria flagship office. Evan brings a distinguished record of leadership in luxury real estate, shaped by years of guiding both agents and clients at the highest levels. His combination of top-producing sales experience and agent-focused leadership uniquely positions him to provide strategic guidance, mentorship, and vision in his new role.
A native Washingtonian licensed in Washington, D.C., Virginia, and Maryland, Evan offers deep regional expertise and a keen understanding of evolving market dynamics. Widely respected for his empathy, foresight, and collaborative leadership, he was elected to the NVAR Board in 2025 and continues to serve with several local nonprofit organizations. Welcome Evan to Corcoran McEnearney!
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■ contributors
Heather Myklegard
LIVES IN: Arlington’s Yorktown neighborhood
ORIGINALLY FROM: Boise, Idaho (moved to Alexandria in 8th grade)
IN THIS ISSUE: Contemplates the gravity of her father’s cancer diagnosis and the unexpected gift of “hitting the pause button” in a personal essay
CURRENTLY WORKING ON: “Creating a movement that empowers women in their mid-40s to rediscover themselves as they approach this next phase of life. Personally, I started weightlifting and am training for the Cherry Blossom 10-miler.”
GIVING BACK: “I support PathForward, the Jennifer Bush-Lawson Foundation, H-B Woodlawn Secondary Program and the Columbia Pike Partnership. We also coach flag football and boys’ lacrosse, and volunteer at local events.”
A FAVORITE HOLIDAY TRADITION: “On Thanksgiving Day, our neighbors all meet at the elementary school for a friendly game of flag football. We then host a Friendsgiving that Friday.”
ONLINE: GetSocialMoxie.com and @GetSocialMoxie on Instagram
Alice Levitt
LIVES IN: Leesburg
ORIGINALLY FROM: Greenwich, Connecticut
IN THIS ISSUE: Highlights the many delicious reasons to plan a food tour of Chinatown in Queens
FUN FACTS: “I started my journalism career writing about wrestling for WWE Magazine. After an internship at EatingWell, I became a food writer. My culinary travels have taken me from hunting for ancient cheese in Xinjiang to speaking about pizza at a nanomedical conference in Calabria.”
CURRENTLY WORKING ON: “Getting a little more of the Malay language under my belt in anticipation of my third trip to Malaysia.”
GIVING BACK: “I was bedridden with neuro-Lyme disease from the ages of 15 to 22, so I do what I can for Lyme disease charities and individuals with Lyme.”
A FAVORITE HOLIDAY TRADITION: “I grew up with pet turkeys, so I’ve never been much into holiday fowl. My husband and I go out for Korean barbecue on Thanksgiving and Christmas.”
ONLINE: AliceLevitt.com, @AliceEats on X, @AliceLevittEats on Instagram
PUBLISHER & OWNER
Greg Hamilton
EDITOR
Jenny Sullivan
ART DIRECTOR
Laura Goode
PRODUCTION MANAGER
Danny Ryan
DIGITAL EDITORS
Stephanie Kanowitz, Helen Partridge
WEB PRODUCER
Erin Roby
DINING CRITIC
David Hagedorn
COPY EDITORS
Sandy Fleishman, Barbara Ruben
CO-FOUNDER
Steve Hull
WRITERS
Cathy Alter, Christine Koubek Flynn, Wendy A. Jordan, Alice Levitt, Jamie McCrary, Heather Myklegard, Kim O’Connell, Eliza Tebo
PHOTOGRAPHERS & ILLUSTRATORS
Joy Asico, Tyson Bateman, Stephanie Bragg, Skip Brown, Rose Collins, Donn Dobkin, Lisa Helfert, Craig Hudson, Jess Lemon, Tony J. Lewis, Deb Lindsey, MomentumD, Donna Owens, Robert Radifera, Rob Garland
Photographers, John Rorapaugh, Alex
Sakes, Vina Sananikone, Hilary Schwab, Scott Suchman, SV Images, Joseph D. Tran, Michael Ventura, J. Michael Whalen, Stephanie Williams, Mykl Wu
For advertising information: Call 703-534-0519 or visit arlingtonmagazine.com.
Letters to the Editor:
We want to hear from you. Please email jenny.sullivan@arlingtonmagazine.com.
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Phone: 703-534-0519
AROUND TOWN
by Jamie McCrary
NOV. 27, 8 A.M.
Arlington Turkey Trot
Run for a cause this Thanksgiving and earn your turkey and stuffing. The annual 5K fundraiser benefits multiple Arlington nonprofits.
$50; $25 for children ages 6-17; free for children under 6 3020 N. Pershing Drive, Arlington, arlingtonvaturkeytrot.org
SEASONAL
NOV. 11, 11 A.M.
Veteran’s Day Honor Ceremony
Falls Church Veterans Memorial
Join the Greater Falls Church Veterans Council to honor all those who have served in the U.S. armed forces. Free. 223 Little Falls St., Falls Church, fallschurchva.gov
NOV. 11, 5 P.M.
Let Us Give Thanks: Gratitude Gathering in the Park
Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington Immerse yourself in lush soundscapes and guided meditations by Zen Steady while contemplating gratitude in the present moment. Free. Metropolitan Park, 1400 S. Eads St., Arlington, mocaarlington.org
Arlington’s annual Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot
Holiday fun at Met Park in National Landing
NOV. 13-DEC. 18
Handcrafted Holidays
MoCA Arlington Innovation Studio
Drop by the Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington’s National Landing studio on Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for holiday crafting. Projects include super-size snowflakes, mini tote bags, greeting cards, ornaments and more. No session on Nov. 27 (Thanksgiving). Free. 525 14th St. S., Arlington, mocaarlington.org
NOV. 22, 10 A.M.
Holiday Gingerbread House
Decorating
McLean Community Center
Looking for a creative family outing? Join this workshop to decorate prebuilt gingerbread houses with frosting and colorful toppings. $45 per household; $35
for MCC district residents. 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean, mcleancenter.org
NOV. 22-23 & DEC. 13-14, 11 A.M.-4 P.M.
URBNmarket
Mosaic District
The ever-popular holiday market features handmade crafts and vintage goods from 75+ local vendors, artisanal foods and live music. Admission is free. 2905 District Ave., Fairfax, URBNmarket.com
NOV. 29, 10 A.M.-2 P.M.
A Victorian Christmas
Cherry Hill Farmhouse
Presented by the Victorian Society of Falls Church, this 19th-century-style holiday celebration features costumed interpreters, traditional music, storytelling and period decorations. Free. 312 Park Ave., Falls Church, fallschurchva.gov
HOLIDAY MAGIC
DEC. 6, 1-7 P.M.
The Lodge at National Landing
Metropolitan Park
Bundle up for a skithemed celebration in National Landing with handmade goods for sale, live music, seasonal eats and visits with Santa. Free. 1330 S. Fair St., Arlington, nationallanding.org
DEC. 4-8
Rosslyn Cheer
Central Place Plaza
Step out for a dog-friendly “yappy hour” with Santa Paws and an outdoor holiday market with local art, jewelry and food. Admission is free. See website for the full schedule. 1800 N. Lynn St., Arlington, rosslynva.org/events
DEC. 5-7
McLean Holiday Art & Crafts Festival
McLean Community Center
Wrap up your holiday shopping with treasures from 80 regional artists, including pottery, jewelry, accessories, fine art, edible gifts, soaps and more. $5; free for children under 12. 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean, mcleancenter.org JOY
DEC. 6, 9 A.M.
Jingle Bell Run
Metro D.C.
Don your favorite holiday gear for a frosty 5K benefiting the Arthritis Foundation. Timed, untimed and virtual race options are available. See website to register. 1201 S. Joyce St., Arlington, JBR.org/ MetroDC
DEC. 6. 10 A.M.
Annual Holiday Show and Sale
STUDIOS@Arlington Arts
Discover one-of-a-kind holiday gifts at this new studio featuring ceramics, pottery and prints by local artists. 3700 S. Four Mile Run Drive, Arlington, arlingtonva.us
DEC. 13, 10 A.M.
Milk and Cookies with Santa McLean Community Center
Meet and greet the man in red, then dive into cookie decorating and winter crafts. $20; $15 for MCC district residents. 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean, mcleancenter.org
DEC. 22-JAN. 3
Light Up McLean: House Decorating Contest
McLean Community Center
Channel your inner Clark Griswold and show off your home in all of its holiday splendor during this annual McLean house decorating competition. Neighbors vote for winners in categories such as Best Overall, Most Creative/Original and Best Holiday Theme. Registration ends Dec. 12. oldfirehouse.org
DEC. 31, 8 P.M.
Ultimate ’80s NYE Dance Party
Jammin’ Java
Ring in the new year with ’80s party jams, music videos, prizes for the gnarliest outfits, favors and glow sticks, plus a free Champagne toast at midnight. $39.73. 227 Maple Ave. E., Vienna, unionstagepresents.com/jammin-java
PERFORMING ARTS
THROUGH JAN. 25
Fiddler on the Roof
Signature
Theatre
A poor Jewish milkman strives to honor tradition in a changing world—and amid the rise of anti-Semitism in Czarist Russia. Iconic songs such as “Sunrise Sunset” and “If I Were a Rich Man” resonate in this classic story of family, community and resilience. Tickets begin at $40. See website for show times. 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington, sigtheatre.org
NOV. 7-23
Peter Pan and Wendy
Creative Cauldron
This imaginative musical adaptation follows J.M. Barrie’s beloved characters on their adventure through Neverland, complete with mermaid divas, a brave
Cirque Kalabanté comes to The Alden in McLean
band of warriors and rascal pirates led by Captain Hook. Performances are 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets begin at $20; $18 for students. 127 E. Broad St., Falls Church, creativecauldron.org
DEC. 1, 7 P.M.
The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show
Capital One Hall
Hosted by drag queen superstars
BenDeLaCreme and Jinkx Monsoon, this holiday revue brings outrageous comedy and thrilling dance numbers to the stage. Tickets begin at $66.20. Capital One Hall, 7750 Capital One Tower Road, Tysons, capitalonehall.com
DEC. 4-21
Birthday Candles
1st Stage Theatre
What makes an ordinary life extraordinary? This poignant and funny play encapsulates the highs, heartbreaks and meaningful moments that make up one woman’s life. Performances are 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Saturdays
Cirque
Kalabanté’s
Afrique en Cirque
The Alden
Embark on an extraordinary journey through Africa in this colorful production featuring gravity-defying acrobatics and live Afro Jazz, percussion and kora. $40; $30 for students and seniors; $25 for MCC district residents. 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean, mcleancenter.org DRUM IT UP
and Sundays. $55; $15 for students, educators and military service members. 1524 Spring Hill Road, Tysons, 1ststage.org
DEC. 5-21
Madeline’s Christmas
Creative Cauldron
In this delightful musical adaptation of Ludwig Bemelmans’ picture books, little Madeline must save Christmas
after illness prevents her classmates from traveling home for the holidays.
Performances are 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Saturdays; 2 and 4 p.m. Sundays. Tickets begin at $20; $18 for students. 127 E. Broad St., Falls Church, creativecauldron.org
DEC. 6-7
Centre
Company Presents
The Nutcracker
Capital One Hall
Follow Clara’s magical dream sequence through the Land of Sweets in this dazzling, full-length performance of the holiday classic. Shows are noon and 5 p.m. Saturday; 1 p.m. Sunday. Tickets begin at $51.55. Capital One Hall, 7750 Capital One Tower Road, Tysons, capitalonehall.com
DEC. 10-18
Holiday Cabarets
Creative Cauldron
Raise a glass and sing along to your favorite seasonal tunes during this intimate cabaret series. 127 E. Broad St., Falls Church, creativecauldron.org
DEC. 19, 1 P.M. AND 6 P.M.
Virginia National Ballet presents The Nutcracker Capital One Hall
The countdown to Christmas continues with another production of the holiday favorite, complete with en pointe choreography and spellbinding sets. Tickets begin at $77.30. 7750 Capital One Tower Road, Tysons, capitalonehall.com
MUSIC
NOV. 2, 4 P.M.
Max Jacobs Quartet
Amadeus Concerts
Violinist Maximilian Jacobs pays tribute to African American jazz great Eddie South, performing a mix of South’s original compositions and the Hungarian folk tunes that inspired him. $50 for general admission; $25 for young adults ages 19-29; free for those under 18 and
active-duty military. St. Francis Episcopal Church, 9220 VA-193, Great Falls, amadeusconcerts.com
NOV. 7, 7:30 P.M.
The Barr Brothers: Let It Hiss Tour
The Barns at Wolf Trap
The indie folk quartet from Montreal performs fan favorites and soulful new works from their forthcoming album, Let It Hiss. Tickets begin at $48.50. 1635 Trap Road, Vienna, wolftrap.org
NOV. 8, 5 P.M.
REACH
Arlington Chorale
The choir is joined by 24 Tunisian singers for a multilingual program featuring songs about women’s empowerment, including a world premiere by D.C. composer and librettist Ashi Day. $25. Westover Baptist Church, 1125 Patrick Henry Drive, Arlington, arlingtonchorale.org
NOV. 8, 7:30 P.M.
Parisian Dreams: Ravel and Saint-Saëns
National Chamber Ensemble
Works by French composers Maurice Ravel and Camille Saint-Saëns will transport you to the City of Light. $45; $25 for students. Gunston Arts Center, 2700 S. Lang St., Arlington, nationalchamberensemble.org
NOV. 8, 8:30 P.M.
Allstar Purple Party: A Tribute to Prince
The State Theatre
Grammy-nominated Junie Henderson channels the electrifying spirit of the artist, performing hits such as “1999” and “When Doves Cry” in full purple regalia. $25-$30. 220 N. Washington St., Falls Church, thestatetheatre.com
NOV. 16, 7:30 P.M.
Viola Celebration: Beethoven, Vaughan Williams & Mozart
The Barns at Wolf Trap
Water’s Edge: The Art of Truman Lowe
Now Open | National Mall
Don’t miss the first major retrospective of acclaimed artist Truman Lowe. Lowe’s elegant, minimalist sculptures made of willow branches, feathers, and other organic materials evoke woodlands, waterways, and Hoocąk (Ho-Chunk) cultural traditions. Leading support provided by Bank of America. Major support provided by the Henry Luce Foundation. Generous support provided by the Terra Foundation for American Art and Ameriprise Financial. Additional support provided by John and Meryl Lavine and Leslie A. Wheelock. AmericanIndian.si.edu @SmithsonianNMAI
6, 6:30-8 P.M.
Arlington Reads: Nicola and David Yoon
Arlington Central Library
Join New York Times best-selling YA authors Nicola and David Yoon, founders of the Joy Revolution imprint at Random House, for a discussion of all things romance. Registration required. Free. 1015 N. Quincy St., Arlington; library.arlingtonva.us
Presented by the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, this program spotlights masterworks for two violas, including Mozart’s C-major viola quintet and Vaughan Williams’ haunting Phantasy Quintet. Tickets begin at $55.50. 1635 Trap Road, Vienna, wolftrap.org
NOV. 22, 7:30 P.M.
A Tribute for Trans Day of Remembrance
Falls Church Episcopal
This concert honoring those lost to antitransgender violence features works by trans composer inti figgis-vizueta and performances by drag artist Kirby the Drag Queen. Proceeds benefit Safe Space NoVA, a nonprofit serving LGBTQ+ youth. $25; free for students and youth. 115 E. Fairfax St., Falls Church, littlecityconcerts.org
DEC. 6, 5 P.M.
REJOICE
Arlington Chorale
A moving program featuring both
Francesco Durante’s and Kim André Arnesen’s renditions of the Magnificat, Mary’s hymn of praise and devotion to God. $25. Westover Baptist Church, 1125 Patrick Henry Drive, Arlington, arlingtonchorale.org
DEC. 14, 7:30 P.M.
Don McLean:
A Starry Starry Christmas
The Birchmere
Best known for his iconic folk ballad “American Pie,” the Grammy award-winning singer-songwriter presents an evening of hits and holiday favorites. $79.50. 3701 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria, birchmere.com
DEC. 20, 7:30 P.M.
Holiday Cheer
National Chamber Ensemble
Enjoy a carols sing-along, timeless classics and seasonal favorites performed by the acclaimed Voce Chamber Singers and winners of the 2025 Nancy Peery Marriott Young Artist Piano Competition.
$45; $25 for students; free for kids 10 and under. Unitarian Universalist Church of Arlington, 4444 Arlington Blvd., Arlington, nationalchamberensemble.org
ART
THROUGH NOV. 30
Ceremony
Arlington Artists Alliance
This juried member show explores the meaning behind celebrations that commemorate life’s milestones. Opening reception 5-7 p.m. Oct. 23. Free. 2700 Clarendon Blvd., Suite 330R, Arlington, arlingtonartistsalliance.org
NOV. 11, 7 P.M.
Dark Star Park and Arlington’s Public Art Program
Arlington Historical Society
Arlington public art director Angela Adams discusses sculptor Nancy Holt’s “Dark Star Park” in Rosslyn, and how the groundbreaking installation inspired the county’s 40+ year commitment to creative placemaking. Free. Marymount University Library Auditorium, 2807 N. Glebe Road, Arlington, arlhist.org
NOV. 20-FEB. 24
PhotoGenesis
2
McLean Project for the Arts
Curated by MPA artistic director Nancy Sausser, this exhibit features works originating from photographic images, ideas and techniques. Opening reception 7-9 p.m. Nov. 20. Free. 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean, mpaart.org
NOV. 22-JAN. 4
Kinship
Falls Church Arts
This art exhibit explores the bonds connecting various communities, families and cultures. The Juror’s Choice Award will be announced at an opening reception on Nov. 22 from 7-9 p.m. Free. 700-B. W. Broad St., Falls Church, fallschurcharts.org
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big picture ■ by Jenny Sullivan | photo by Deb Lindsey
Appalachian Alchemy
Once outlawed, this homegrown spirit has made a roaring comeback.
IN NOVEMBER 1921 , federal prohibition officers descended on Clarendon, seizing some 200,000 gallons of moonshine and arresting 14 bootleggers in a raid The Washington Times reported as the biggest bust since alcohol had been outlawed in the U.S. 22 months earlier.
According to the Arlington Historical Society, the raid prompted threats from Arlington’s so-called “back country” men, who vowed that subsequent crackdowns on illegal booze would be met with armed resistance.
Moonshine (so named because it was often made after dark), an unaged spirit derived from corn mash, may have been contraband, but it was part of the local way of life. Unlike the high-volume traffickers targeted by law enforcement, most residents who dabbled in distilling were producing only small quantities to share with family and friends.
More than a century later, ’shine is not only legal, it’s a staple in the high art of mixology. Small-batch versions, considerably smoother than their predecessors, now line the shelves of Virginia ABC stores. At Nettie’s Tavern, an Appalachian-themed watering hole that opened in Clarendon this summer, Climax Moonshine produced in nearby Culpeper is the star of the bar’s signature Nettie’s Tea.
“It’s kind of like an orange crush, but with fresh lemon juice, housebrewed iced tea and a mint simple syrup that we also make in-house,” says owner Reese Gardner, an Arlington resident who grew up in the Allegheny Mountains near Altoona, Pennsylvania. These days, his home away from home is a cabin in West Virginia.
Nettie’s is a tribute to a woman Gardner befriended at a dive bar near Berkeley Springs. “Nettie would put moonshine in her porch tea over ice,” he says. “We’ve spiced up her version and elevated it a bit.” (Her raucous and unfiltered stories are chronicled in a memoir by the same name that Gardner self-published in July.)
Moonshine’s relatively flavorless profile, similar to vodka, lends itself to all kinds of infusions. At Nettie’s, connoisseurs can also order flights featuring seasonal variations such as cherry, apple and pickle. The ever-changing flavors, Gardner says, are also reflective of Appalachian tradition.
“Everyone trades,” he explains of the region’s barter economy. Even today, residents of small mountain communities are apt to exchange goods— from firewood and chicken eggs to venison jerky—in lieu of retail shopping. Seasonal produce is a popular commodity. “One neighbor will have apple pie, or strawberries, blueberries or pears, depending on what’s growing,” he says. And those yields inevitably find their way to the still. ■
familiar faces ■ by Cathy Alter | photo by Michael Ventura
Matt Fantz (left, sans mustache) and Nick Rizer at Royal Pawn in Crystal City
Loan Stars
A day in the life at an Arlington pawn shop
I HAVE ALWAYS BEEN fascinated by pawn shops. The few I visited as a kid with my father smelled of diesel fuel and featured greasy tools and combat knives in messy display cases. There was a mystery to these places, I believed—untold stories to go along with the trays of wedding bands and embossed leather bibles.
As a longtime fan of shows like the History Channel’s Pawn Stars and (no judgement, please) truTV’s Hardcore Pawn, I was dying to get behind the scenes. I finally scratched that itch last spring by working a shift at Royal Pawn on 23rd Street in Crystal City.
It all started when I met pawnbroker Matt Fantz while browsing the Georgetown flea market. In front of him was a single foldout table, more suitable for a game of three-card monte than the Native American jewelry and odds and ends he was selling. I purchased an old Navajo brooch, and we got to talking.
When he told me the items on the table came from the shop where he worked, I wondered aloud what it would be like to have that job. I was curious to learn who, exactly, might seek out a place like Royal Pawn for odd treasures or quick cash.
“You should come by and check it out,” Fantz said, handing me a business card with the owner’s name in small font across the front: Nick. No last name.
Arriving at the shop a few weeks later, I discover, to my great relief, that there isn’t a greasy lawnmower or a Chumley—the ditzy, sausage-fingered employee on Pawn Stars—in sight. “Well, not today at least,” quips Fantz, who is behind the jewelry counter arranging a ring tray. Dark-haired and mustached, he looks a bit like pop star Benson Boone, minus the sparkly blue jumpsuit.
■ familiar faces
We’re soon joined by proprietor Nick (last name Rizer), who is dressed in black and wearing a massive gold chain. He has gamely agreed to let me pull a shift.
It’s not even noon and already there’s drama: Nick has just hung up the phone with his brother, Alex, who runs their sister shop in Franconia. Alex called with a warning about a guy with a watch—a Rolex Submariner.
Upon opening the watch, Alex noticed something was off. Instead of displaying one counterbalance, this one had two—a telltale sign that it was a fake. The staff needed to be on high alert in case the watch hawker made the 10-minute trip from Franconia to Arlington to try again.
As pawnbrokers, the Rizer brothers need to be generalists, knowing a little bit of everything, from designer timepieces to fine porcelain to sports memorabilia. They learned the business from their father, Eric, who learned the ropes
from his mother, a former antiques dealer from England. She’s the one who convinced Eric, then working as a manager at a local Giant Food, to open the Franconia shop in the early ’90s. The Arlington store has been in operation since 2017 with Nick at the helm.
Eric, now retired, busies himself with his Grey Lady Farm out in The Plains, where he and his wife, Nancy, breed and raise thoroughbred racehorses. Among them is a horse named Nick’s Notion, a favorite for obvious reasons.
As the morning unfolds, two-legged Nick is approaching a different sort of finish line. He’s jockeying to close a deal with his first customer of the day, a dog walker who is busy spreading out some of her mother’s fine jewelry on the counter. “We’re Venezuelan,” she says by way of introduction. “The amount of gold you get over there is staggering.”
The woman’s mother died recently, she explains, and she needs money to have
her mom’s collection of paintings professionally appraised. “I have about $30K of art in my basement,” she estimates.
Rizer separates the gold into karats—a pile of 10k, a pile of 14k—and hands over $1,200. The haggle-free purchase takes less than 10 minutes.
“I always plan for future business,” he says shrewdly. Maybe some of that artwork will eventually make it to the shop. The goal is to turn each customer into a return customer.
Next, a family of seven, in from New England to see the cherry blossoms, wanders in. Royal Pawn gets a lot of foot traffic from tourists, given its proximity to several hotels. Rizer shows some of the men a tray of pocket knives. The family’s patriarch slides over to me and whispers, “That guy really knows his stuff.”
The day brings a steady stream of buyers and sellers. A conference attendee from Las Vegas looks at a
$10,000 diamond bracelet and a royal blue Hermes Clic Clac cuff that she ultimately deems, “Not my color.” A trio of 20-somethings has driven over an hour to buy a guitar that Fantz listed the day before on Facebook Marketplace.
Fantz started out as a patron at Royal Pawn when, at 19, he came in to check out some guitars. He and Nick both play, taking turns noodling around on a 2020-era Martin whenever there’s a lull in store traffic. The basement of Royal Pawn is a man cave extraordinaire, loaded with electric and acoustic guitars, speakers and amps. Hanging on the wall is a gigantic sign from Zavarella, the music shop that once occupied the building.
Aside from the shoppers and lookie-loos, a few customers stop in to extend their loans. While the majority of store transactions involve cash in exchange for goods (which the shop then sells at a markup), some customers put down valuables as collateral on short-term loans, paying 10% interest every 30 days while their pawned items are kept locked in a vault.
“When the economy’s not doing well, we’re taking in items,” Nick explains. Unlike most retail operations, there is no busy season. “Some days are big sale days.”
The guy with the fake Rolex never shows up. As my shift ends, a woman comes in and empties out a small pocketful of jewelry on the counter. Amid the dainty silver earrings and delicate chains is a small gold heart set with teensy diamonds. She leaves few minutes later, $72 dollars richer.
Heart in hand, Fantz grabs a Sunshine cloth and begins polishing. Pretty soon, it looks like a million dollars. ■
Cathy Alter’s articles and essays have appeared in The Cut, Oldster, Wired and The Washington Post, among others. She lives in Washington, D.C., with her husband, Karl, their son, Leo, and Benny the cat.
info@homewardtrails.org
my life ■ by Heather Kempthorne Myklegard | photo by Michael Ventura
Hitting the Pause Button
What cancer taught me about time, love and presence
IN MARCH, MY DAD, 73 years young, was diagnosed with gallbladder cancer.
He’d been down this road before, last year, with prostate cancer. It felt scary, yes, but manageable. He had gotten into a prostate clinical trial at NIH, and we started to settle into the rhythm of appointments, treatments and hope. The trial was around a new procedure called prostate cancer ablation that uses heat and lasers to treat the tumor. The ablation was successful. We thought maybe we could put cancer behind us and continue on with our lives.
However, this spring, his pain began. A trip to the ER. An X-ray that showed…something. First, they thought colon cancer, then gallbladder, and then came the word no one ever wants to hear: metastasized. The cancer had started in his gallbladder and spread to his liver and colon—stage 4.
My dad started chemo in April at St. Luke’s in Boise, Idaho. Six-hour infusions every week. And yet, he amazes us—still going to board meetings, still working out, still showing up with humor and strength. He’s lost some weight, but not his hair, not his energy, not his faith. He’s fighting with everything he has.
That perseverance exemplifies who he’s always been. My dad’s life has been defined by service—as mayor of Boise, as a U.S. Senator representing Idaho, as governor of the state, and as Secretary of the Interior during George W. Bush’s second term in office. Today, he continues that work as a board member for the agricultural sciences company FMC Corp., and the Peregrine Fund, helping protect raptors around the world. The titles matter less than the heart behind them. Dad has spent his life leading with integrity, building community and making a difference.
Meanwhile, we, as a family, have pressed pause. My mom, Patricia, has been by his side every day, tracking medications, taking notes during appointments and adjusting meals to fit the bland diet he now follows. My brother and his family, also
The author with her father, Dirk Kempthorne
in Idaho, are close at hand. My dad is never far from the love of his seven grandchildren—four in Boise, and my three boys here in Arlington with my husband and me.
Life now comes in one- to twomonth increments, with plans held loosely in place. Dad’s cancer surgery looms, a moment where we won’t know what’s possible until they open him up. We hold our breath. The chemo has held the tumor steady, but it hasn’t shrunk. We are living in the space of “not knowing.”
But here’s what I do know: The pause has changed me.
I’ve started to notice the little things—the everyday rituals I used to rush past. Picking Dad up at DCA when he flies in from Idaho for a board meeting. Sitting around our dinner table, lis-
tening to him laugh with my boys. Driving together to the car wash. My dad loves a clean car.
And on the other side of the country, a glass of wine on my parents’ patio at dusk, breathing in the mountain air near Boise. Moments so ordinary they could be overlooked, yet now they feel like treasures. I soak in his presence and energy, knowing that nothing—no matter how strong or sacred—lasts forever.
I recently asked my dad what he’s learned so far on this journey. He said the outpouring of love had humbled him. Friends and neighbors reaching out. Grown men telling him they love him, that he mattered as a mentor, colleague, friend. And I wonder—why does it take illness to nudge us into saying the things we’ve always meant to say?
Some of the best conversations I’ve
had with my father have been over these last nine months. He’s asked me about being a mom, about watching my boys shoot up taller than me, about the SAT prep and college visits that somehow snuck up on us. We’ve laughed over old memories. We’ve cried about how hard it is to watch your kids grow up and no longer want to cuddle or be held.
My dad and I share a secret language that only we understand. We can find each other from across the room, give a look, and break out into huge smiles.
Back when he was in office, I invented a character named Millicent— my very stern, no-nonsense “secretary.”
Millicent had zero patience, not even for a senator or governor, and certainly not for his jam-packed calendar. I’d call him, drop my voice a few octaves, and in my best clipped tone announce,
“This is Millicent, and your daughter has been trying to reach you. Kindly stop acting so important and return her call.” It always made him laugh—and, truthfully, it usually worked.
He gets me, and I get him. I’m his only daughter. The thought of life without him is unbearable. I know I’ll have other mentors and father figures, but he is my anchor, my compass, my constant—the one I instinctively look to when I need direction.
My dad is the best speaker I have ever heard. He can command a room of dignitaries, CEOs or elected officials, then turn around and talk to a brigade of soldiers heading off to war, offering strength with just his presence. He can make the little old lady at the checkout line blush, or coax the butcher behind the counter into proudly showing off
the latest picture of his granddaughter. My dad doesn’t see status or titles as barriers. He sees people. More importantly, he sees the best in people. That’s why he’s always been my role model. He doesn’t just tell me how to live, he shows me, through kindness, humor, courage and an unshakable faith in others.
And then, of course, there’s the other side of him—the dad who once put on a Halloween mask and banged on the back windows during a sleepover, scaring me and all of my friends until we screamed ourselves silly. That’s the man who has taught me that life is both serious and playful, full of duty and joy.
My dad is strong. He’s a man of faith. He will fight. And until we know the ending, we’ll rest in this sacred stillness, learning that even pauses can be a kind of living.
Through all of this, I have learned to embrace my mobility, my health and my life. Cancer doesn’t care how old you are or how strong you feel. It can come for anyone. Don’t wait for pain or discomfort to prompt you to see the doctor; schedule your annual screenings now.
Just as importantly, don’t wait for illness to remind you what’s in your heart. What’s on your mind. Say the words. Love boldly and without hesitation.
There are moments when life asks us to pause, to breathe, to watch, to simply be. A pause isn’t an ending—it’s an opening to notice what matters before life carries us forward again. ■
Heather Myklegard lives in Arlington with her husband, three boys and their doodle. She runs Social Moxie, a marketing agency.
Senior Services PROFILES
Greenspring
7440 Spring Village Drive Springfield, VA 22150 1-877-211-3699 www.GreenspringCommunity.com
Greenspring is a premier continuing care retirement community set on 58 beautiful acres in Springfield. Stylish, maintenance-free residences feature open layouts and contemporary fixtures. A variety of floor plans suit different needs and budgets. All utilities, including Wi-Fi, cable and home telephone, are covered.
The gated, 62+ community features resort-style amenities in three clubhouses, including a fitness and aquatics center, seven restaurants and a performing arts center. Professional landscapers maintain the lush gardens, charming courtyards and well-tended outdoor walking paths all year.
Peace of mind comes from the predictability of a monthly bill that covers all utilities, home maintenance and amenities. Residents receive convenient healthcare at the on-site medical center, and higher levels of care are available as needs change.
The former luxury hotel called The Fairfax at Embassy Row is now Inspīr Embassy Row, an exquisite senior living community nestled among the diplomatic residences in this prestigious neighborhood in the heart of Washington, D.C. The distinguished property has undergone a meticulous transformation, preserving the grace of a bygone era while redefining senior living.
A commitment to holistic wellness permeates every facet, from the meticulously designed residences to comprehensive support. Each comfortable studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom dwelling boasts exquisite craftsmanship and a tranquil natural color palette. Grand windows flood the living space with light, providing picturesque views as the ideal backdrop to a private haven.
Beyond the aesthetic allure, Inspīr Embassy Row offers an extensive range of support, spanning from assisted living to memory care, tailored to meet residents’ unique needs. Its mission is to empower. Well-being is found on a dedicated wellness floor featuring a saltwater pool, sauna, steam room and salt room. In diverse, inviting dining venues, friends meet up for culinary delights. The rooftop lounge has stunning views.
Every detail, from architecture to decor, is thoughtfully considered, inspiring living life to the fullest. Inspīr Embassy Row is more than a residence; it’s a destination where luxury, well-being and cherished moments converge. An exceptional lifestyle is backed by an unwavering dedication to providing the assistance needed for a life of fulfillment and comfort.
The Jefferson
The Jefferson was recognized as Best Assisted Living and Best Memory Care as part of U.S. News & World Report’s Best Senior Living ratings for 2025.
900 N. Taylor St. Arlington, VA 22203
703-516-9455 www.TheJeffersonVA.com
Situated in an ideal Ballston location, The Jefferson gives older adults the chance to leave home maintenance behind and join an active and supportive community. Offering a variety of types of living and care options, including independent living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing, this community makes it possible for residents to age in place and receive support as they need it.
In assisted living, residents benefit from personalized care that allows them to maintain their independence. Experienced caregivers deliver just the right amount of support so they can live fully. Memory care residents living with Alzheimer’s, dementia and other forms of memory loss receive compassionate, expert care that helps them find meaningful days.
With a variety of gracious amenities,
including an indoor pool, fitness center, gardening spaces, salon and art room, residents can focus on their wellness and pursue their passions. Residents enjoy being part of a dynamic community with frequent social events, upscale, restaurant-style dining and a large selection of pastimes to choose from—such as water aerobics, theater workshops, guest lectures, gardening, happy hours, crab feasts, Spanish lessons, live entertainment and so much more.
The Jefferson’s location makes it easy to take full advantage of the Ballston, Northern Virginia and D.C. metropolitan areas. Just one block from the Ballston Metro, residents can quickly get to major attractions, dining, shopping and entertainment. They also have access to a weekly farmers market across the street and the beautiful trails of Arlington.
Vinson Hall Retirement Community
Vinson Hall is a not-for-profit community, supported by the Navy Marine Coast Guard Residence Foundation, a 501(c) (3) organization. All revenue, whether it is from resident fees, charitable donations or foundation revenue, is reinvested into the community to enrich the lives of residents.
6251 Old Dominion Drive
McLean, VA 22101
703-536-4344
www.vinsonhall.org
Seniors who move into one of Vinson Hall’s 236 independent living apartments can expect many advantages over living at home. In addition to maintenancefree living and a vibrant community, new residents gain peace of mind.
Vinson Hall is a Life Plan Community, and residents in independent living have access to a full continuum of care, including assisted living, skilled nursing and rehabilitation, memory care, and inresidence home care.
Like many sought-after communities, Vinson Hall has a waitlist, but joining it opens the door to early experiences. Vinson Hall’s waiting list requires a simple application, a processing fee and a small refundable deposit. Waitlist members gain access to lectures, performances, dinners and even the fitness center for a nominal fee. It’s a smart move to start exploring
earlier rather than later, so future options stay wide open.
When it is time to move in, the Vinson Hall team helps personalize each apartment, from paint colors to finishes. Whether it’s a cozy studio or a spacious three-bedroom, every apartment is refreshed with new carpet, fresh paint and a deep cleaning. For those who want more options, upgrades like hardwood floors, built-in cabinetry and ceiling fans are available.
Vinson Hall is a community built on convenience and hospitality, and friendships happen naturally. Camaraderie grows among warm, interesting neighbors who enjoy activities and amenities that entertain, stimulate and promote wellness. There are book clubs, theater groups, committee meetings, bridge games, pickleball games, fitness classes, art classes, trivia nights and happy hours.
Sunrise of Falls Church
Sunrise of Falls Church has been recognized as Best Assisted Living and Best Memory Care as part of U.S. News & World Report’s Best Senior Living ratings for 2025.
330 N. Washington St. Falls Church, VA 22046 571-899-8623
sunrisefallschurch.com
Just steps from downtown Falls Church and only a few miles from Washington, D.C., Sunrise of Falls Church delivers awardwinning assisted living and memory care in a setting that combines small-town charm with the convenience of Northern Virginia living.
At the heart of Sunrise of Falls Church is a team of dedicated professionals who provide expert, personalized care around the clock. Assisted living residents enjoy independence and social connection with added support for everyday tasks. With chores like cooking and cleaning taken care of, residents are free to focus on making friends and pursuing meaningful activities.
For those living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, Sunrise offers life-enriching memory care. Residents benefit from compassionate, evidencebased support, helping them feel both comfortable and connected.
Life at Sunrise of Falls Church extends well beyond care. Residents stay engaged through fitness classes, art workshops, book clubs and intergenerational programs. Partnerships with local entertainers and cultural organizations bring lively events into the community. With scheduled transportation, outings to nearby attractions are easy.
Dining is another highlight. In an elegant dining room framed by floor-to-ceiling French windows, residents gather for chef-prepared meals, including specialties of a former White House chef, made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. In addition, the bistro offers light bites and refreshments throughout the day.
Sunrise of Falls Church blends trusted, compassionate care with a vibrant lifestyle, creating a true sense of community in the heart of Northern Virginia.
Westminster at Lake Ridge
Westminster at Lake Ridge is part of the Ingleside family of communities, a not-forprofit organization recognized by Fortune as one of the best workplaces in aging services and certified as a Great Place to Work®. Westminster at Lake Ridge itself holds CARF accreditation and SAGECare certification, underscoring its commitment to quality, inclusivity and vibrant community life.
12191 Clipper Drive
Lake Ridge, VA 22192
703-496-3400
www.inglesideonline.org/westminster-lake-ridge
Life at Westminster at Lake Ridge is about more than just where you live—it’s about how you thrive. Nestled in a wooded setting by the Occoquan River, this not-forprofit community is known for its engaging cultural arts, wellness programs and warm, welcoming environment that makes every day meaningful. With an exciting expansion on the horizon, soon there will be even more opportunities to join this thriving community.
Whether a spacious cottage with a sunroom or a charming apartment in the heart of the community, the inviting spaces are designed for comfort and style. With housekeeping, maintenance and repair services included, distractions are cleared away, making room for what counts.
Enrichment is woven into daily life at Westminster at Lake Ridge. Residents
pursue passions through hobbyist groups, volunteer opportunities, thought-provoking lectures, dynamic cultural arts programs and unique fitness programming—and that’s just scratching the surface.
In 2027, an exciting expansion will add 24 modern, beautifully designed apartments to Westminster at Lake Ridge. Each apartment offers abundant natural light, spacious layouts and modern finishes.
“This expansion is about creating more opportunities for seniors to live fully engaged lives in a place that excels at inspiring connection and creativity,” says Kera Wooten, executive director of Westminster at Lake Ridge. “Here, you can find both the freedom to focus on what matters most and the support to bring your goals to life.”
Woodleigh Chase
9805 Woodleigh Lane
Fairfax, Virginia 22032
1-888-377-2032
www.WoodleighChase.com
Woodleigh Chase is a premier senior living community in the heart of Fairfax. It is conveniently located just three miles from George Mason University and close to a wide selection of shopping, dining and entertainment.
Residents become part of a vibrant retirement community on 42 beautiful acres packed with resort-style amenities, including a state-of-the-art fitness and aquatics center, bocce and pickleball courts, a dog park, walking paths, and a full-service salon and barbershop—activities and services designed to help seniors thrive. The community features multiple restaurants and opportunities for learning, exploring hobbies and socializing. The medical center offers a full range of health and well-being services, and the security staff is trained in emergency response. Residents often refer to Woodleigh Chase as a “small town under one roof.” The amenities are connected
through climate-controlled walkways.
Woodleigh Chase offers a variety of stylish one- and two-bedroom floor plans that suit every need and budget. Features include screened patios and balconies, stainlesssteel appliances, quartz countertops, crown molding, soft-close cabinetry, double vanities in most primary bathrooms, luxury vinyl plank flooring, a full-size washer and dryer, and under-building parking.
Life at Woodleigh Chase also offers remarkable value. A single predictable monthly bill covers utilities, Wi-Fi, cable television, home telephone, maintenance and repairs—freeing residents from the hassle and expense of unexpected costs.
Woodleigh Chase is bigger than just one community. It’s part of the Erickson Senior Living® family of managed communities with a 40-plus-year commitment to serving seniors.
Nestled in the heart of McLean, VA, Sunrise of McLean Village offers an elevated senior living experience with all the comforts of home and the luxury of modern amenities. This vibrant community is thoughtfully designed to promote independence, engagement and connection at every stage of life. Each day is filled with enriching activities and meaningful moments, taking place in bright, flexible and welcoming spaces created with residents’ well-being in mind.
Highly personalized assisted living and memory care services are tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. Compassionate and dedicated team members are available around the clock, ensuring residents receive the attention and support they deserve in a warm and respectful environment.
Social connection and wellness are at the heart of the community. There are countless ways to stay active and involved, whether by attending a fitness class, enjoying a musical performance or participating in a group activity. Beautiful outdoor living areas provide peaceful spots to relax or gather with friends, while the on-site hair and nail salon and the massage room offer opportunities for relaxation and self-care.
Dining at Sunrise of McLean Village is a highlight of each day. A talented in-house culinary team crafts a rotating menu of fresh, flavorful meals using seasonal ingredients, accommodating various tastes and dietary preferences.
At Sunrise of McLean Village, every day brings new opportunities to thrive— physically, socially and emotionally—in a community that feels like family.
Arlington Free Clinic
CEO Lesley Daigle
Without Net a
The nonprofits that make up Arlington’s social safety net are seeing an increase in need while funding sources are under duress.
BY ELIZA TEBO | PHOTOS BY DONN DOBKIN
Lesley Daigle had just finished giving a speech at a 2024 fundraiser for the Arlington Free Clinic (AFC) when a caterer approached her and pointed to a woman across the room.
“That’s my mother. She was a patient [at AFC] 11 years ago,” the caterer said. “‘She had cancer and she is standing there alive today because of you.”
Daigle had only recently joined the clinic as its CEO, but she says such stories are common at the 31-year-old nonprofit, which provides free medical care for uninsured county residents. In this case, quality health care helped a cancer survivor “provide a good home” for her daughter, Daigle says, putting her daughter on a path to launching her own catering business.
“That is an incredible jump from somebody who couldn’t afford health care,” Daigle adds. “The fact that we can do that for families—that we can
lift them up and provide a better life, for not only this generation, but the next generation—is very significant.”
AFC is just one of the local nonprofits offering a lifeline to county residents in need of food, shelter, medical care, job assistance and other vital services. Together, they help make up Arlington’s social safety net.
But many of those same charitable organizations are now in need of a lifeline themselves, in jeopardy of losing— or having already lost—critical funding to support their work.
According to Daigle, AFC and other nonprofit health care providers were already working with strained resources in the wake of the pandemic. Now, looming Medicaid cuts are likely to grow Arlington’s uninsured population. The stress of the moment is also compounding patients’ health problems. Many have chronic conditions that are exacerbated by worries about
paying for food, rent and other necessities amid economic uncertainty.
Since January, the Trump administration has unleashed a flood of federal policy shifts and funding cuts that have very real consequences for people facing financial hardship. A freeze on federal grants temporarily stymied rental assistance, early childhood education and other social service programs before it was rescinded. A crackdown on illegal immigration has sparked fear among immigrants, who are disproportionately represented in low-wage jobs. Nonprofits and other federal grantees have been advised to terminate diversity, equity and inclusion programs, some of which support vulnerable populations.
As the year 2025 continued, the president’s tax and spending legislation delivered more bad news for lowincome Americans, including significant cuts to food assistance, Medicare and
Medicaid. The D.C. region has been hit by federal layoffs, rising unemployment, persistent inflation and business disruptions caused by volatile tariff policies. As this story went to press, a government shutdown had left thousands of federal workers furloughed without pay.
While they wait for the next shoe to drop, Arlington’s human services nonprofits are scrambling to mend the holes already slashed in the social safety net. Demand for assistance is up, resources are stressed and anxiety is pervasive.
“Every nonprofit in Arlington is going to feel this at some point in time,” Daigle says, whether it’s in the form of slashed grant funding, higher operating costs or a drop in private donors’ ability to give.
“We’re worried about the fallout in the months to come,” she says. “If you asked any nonprofit right now, they would tell you that they feel like resources are contracting at the precise moment that the need for the services they provide is expanding.”
‘A PATTERN THAT IS TOTALLY UNUSUAL’
Charitable organizations in the U.S. are about as old as the nation itself. Mutual aid groups, faith-based organizations and medical providers have offered care and community support since the country’s earliest days. Government-led social welfare programs emerged during historic pain points, from the postCivil War Freedman’s Bureau to the New Deal initiatives that helped pull the country from the grips of the Great Depression.
Federal support for such programs expanded considerably in the 1960s under the Kennedy and Johnson administrations, with the creation of the Food Stamp Program (now the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP); Head Start, which provides early childhood education for low-income families; Volunteers in Service to America (now AmeriCorps); and
Medicare and Medicaid, which cover medical care for seniors, people with disabilities and low-income individuals.
Many services are facilitated by nonprofits, which in turn are supported by government grants, contracts and private donations. Most, if not all, of the nonprofits in Arlington County are seeing a rise in need.
The Arlington Food Assistance Center (AFAC), which provides free groceries to qualifying families, has noted an 85% jump in demand over the past five years, according to CEO Charlie Meng. AFAC currently serves about 4,000 families per week, nearly half of whom are beneficiaries of at least one federally funded service.
“If [the safety net] gets cut, we’re going to see more families come to us,” Meng says, “and those families are going to come to us more often.”
Historically, AFAC’s numbers have dipped in the summer when seasonal jobs open up and warmer weather allows for more day labor shifts in fields such as construction and landscaping. But this summer, the number of clients seeking food assistance held steady, prompting Meng to forecast even larger numbers for the fall. In August, he was anticipating some 5,400 families at Thanksgiving. “This is a pattern that is totally unusual in the 18 years that I’ve been at AFAC,” he says.
Faced with higher food prices, AFAC will be distributing Thanksgiving chickens this year in lieu of turkeys. Meng expects that food insecurity will continue to worsen amid the waves of federal layoffs. Many workers received their final paychecks this fall from “fork in the road” deferred resignations. (More than 25,000 Arlingtonians work for the federal government, according to county data.)
Newly unemployed white collar professionals could be among the new faces at AFAC, but so will the housekeepers, nannies, restaurant workers and others who depended, in part, on those federal
“If [the safety net] gets cut, we’re going to see more families come to us, and those families are going to come to us more often.”
employees for their livelihood. When disposable income disappears, cleaning services and dinners out are among the first household expenses to be cut.
PathForward, a nonprofit that fights homelessness (Arlington Magazine Publisher Greg Hamilton is its current board chair), connects clients with services such as meals and medical care at two Arlington-based shelters, as well
as temporary and long-term housing. It’s also seeing a spike in demand. This year’s Point in Time Count, an annual measure of homelessness in the county, showed a 12% rise in homelessness over last year—and a 58% increase since 2021.
Betsy Frantz, PathForward’s president and CEO, expects that number to grow as the impacts of federal
layoffs and funding cuts are fully realized. Evictions are still “catching up” to those who owe past-due rent from Covid-era freezes. Meanwhile, Arlington has a chronic affordable housing shortage, and wages aren’t keeping pace with the cost of living. “There are more and more unhoused, so our wait list of people needing services and needing shelter is growing,” Frantz says.
To accommodate higher numbers of individuals seeking shelter this summer, Arlington County asked PathForward to take the unprecedented step of opening its overflow shelter beds early—a move typically reserved for hypothermia season.
“We are seeing people that have food needs, and they don’t know how to handle being on the street,” Frantz says.
Rising food prices are forcing the Arlington Food Assistance Center to do more with less, says CEO Charlie Meng.
Doorways CEO Diana Ortiz says the number of families seeking shelter from domestic violence is rising.
“We are doing everything in our power to stay resilient and creative.”
“They need medical attention, much more so than ever.”
The level of community need may not even be fully apparent amid the nationwide crackdown on illegal immigration. Fear of ICE raids has had a chilling effect on Arlington’s immigrant population, says Brian Marroquín, director of grants and initiatives for the Arlington Community Foundation (ACF). Some immigrants, regardless of their status, are hesitant to leave their homes to access services, and nonprofits don’t have the resources to do home visits.
“Nonprofit folks are really being challenged right now to reimagine how to do more with the same—or less,” says Marroquín. ACF helps individual donors and companies plan and maximize their charitable giving. This year, it created a humanitarian assistance fund that supports immigrationrelated legal services for low-income Arlington residents.
The Arlington Free Clinic, which treats uninsured adults who don’t qualify for Medicaid, is also approaching capacity, Daigle says. “We consider ourselves the safety net for the safety net.”
Demand at the clinic is likely to grow when Medicaid cuts begin to take effect in 2026. Arlington County was home to 29,307 Medicaid recipients in fiscal year 2024, she says, and another 10,000 are uninsured.
AFC currently sees about 1,500 patients, while local clinics run by VHC Health and Neighborhood Health also treat a portion of the uninsured. Many AFC clients have chronic health problems such as heart disease and diabetes that require ongoing care.
“The mere stress of living day-to-day in poverty—that worrying all the time about where money is going to come [from] to pay rent or pay for food—that, in and of itself, is linked to a number of chronic conditions,” Daigle says. She worries about the number of folks turning to emergency rooms as a last resort. “That is the absolute worst place to get care, because they’re only focused on treating what is right before them.”
Financial stress is also triggering a rise in intimate partner violence, according to Diana Ortiz. She’s the CEO of Doorways, which provides temporary shelter, housing and support services to Arlington adults and families experiencing domestic violence. “This is not an abstract thought,” she says. “It’s a very real connection. There is more need when there is uncertainty. That immediately translates into unhealthy behavior.”
Ortiz says demand for Doorways’ shelter is at its highest level in the organization’s 47-year history. Some 150 individuals, mostly women and children, have come to the nonprofit seeking refuge in the past year. That’s more than double the number five years ago.
“Communities that are historically under-resourced or underserved tend to be the first ones...impacted when major national policy changes happen,” Ortiz says. “The first ones that are already stretched thin are the first ones that also suffer.”
Calls to Doorways’ 24-hour hotline have surged, too. Ortiz likens it to a hospital emergency room, with operators constantly triaging individuals in crisis. Every interaction matters. “You need that service right when you need it,” she says. “If we’re full, that means someone on the other [end] of the phone will have a harder time accessing services. And that…can cost us lives.”
‘WE CAN’T TAKE MORE RISK’
Nonprofits whose funding pies include a large slice of federal dollars are particularly vulnerable. Doorways relies on both public and private funding, deriving about half of its operating budget from federal, state and local grants. In June, the organization’s Covid relief funds expired. As this issue went to press, Ortiz was waiting to hear whether a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) grant that accounts for about 20% of her budget would be renewed.
In the interim, Doorways has shifted funds from private donations and cut staff to help cover the rent for clients
in its permanent housing program. In August, Ortiz estimated having the resources to keep that going for about six months. For now, they are unable to move any new clients in their temporary shelter into permanent housing.
“There is a direct impact in how quickly people can get stabilized, how quickly people can really move out from an emergency,” she says. “We cannot take more risk. We wouldn’t want to evict anyone.”
Meanwhile, donations have dropped off. This year marks the first time Doorways has fallen short of meeting its private funding goals since the pre-pandemic era. Ortiz says federal layoffs have left some regular donors making “tough decisions” and reassessing their capacity to give.
The nonprofit has also lost volunteers who are suddenly out of work and refocusing their time on job searches. About a fifth of Doorway’s volunteers, including those manning the crisis hotline and providing childcare assistance for survivors, work (or worked) as federal employees or contractors.
Ortiz nevertheless underscores that her organization’s “doors are open” to anyone who needs help. They’d never want to turn someone away. “We are doing everything in our power to stay resilient and creative,” she says.
Culpepper Garden, a 50-year-old Arlington retirement community for low-income seniors, is almost entirely funded by HUD money. As of September, its three independent living buildings on a 4.2 acre campus near Ballston were at capacity, home to about 350 residents. “We don’t know what HUD’s going to do,” says Executive Director Marta Hill Gray, “and we can’t really make any assumptions.”
As with other nonprofits, Gray has found strength in community. She keeps in touch with similar affordable housing entities across the country, sharing information and ideas via weekly phone calls. She says everyone
is scrambling to develop contingency plans in the event that more federal funding cuts come to pass.
The threat alone has left many Culpepper residents in a state of panic. “We have people at the end of the month who have to decide if they spend the money for a cab to go to the doctor, or do they spend it on their medication, or do they buy food?” Gray says.
Aspire, a nonprofit provider of free afterschool and summer enrichment programs for low-income Arlington families, is also heavily reliant on federal funds. In April, the organization lost nearly a third of its budget when AmeriCorps grant funding was slashed by 41%. (Some federal funds were later reinstated, but the fate of the national program remains in limbo.) Seemingly overnight, the nonprofit lost all of its teachers.
“The day that I had to tell all the AmeriCorps members what happened was maybe one of the hardest days of my professional career,” says Aspire CEO and Executive Director Paula Fynboh. Each teacher agreed to stay on for the remainder of the week while Fynboh’s team strategized how to scrape together stopgap funding.
In the end, an emergency fundraising campaign raised enough money in about 24 hours to hire back most of the teachers as contract workers. Arlington County also boosted an existing county grant by an additional $16,600.
It didn’t help that Fynboh’s husband lost his job due to federal funding cuts that same month. She says her family took that setback in stride. “We’re going to be OK over the next few years because we have privilege,” she says. “That is not true for some of the students and the families we work with.”
Aspire’s enrollment has more than doubled in the past three years. In August, its fall waiting list was the longest in its history. The nonprofit continued its Rising Together fundraising campaign through the summer,
receiving contributions from more than 300 donors. One donor is the mother of an Aspire student who gives what she can—$5 per month. Fynboh says many of the families Aspire supports have parents working two or three jobs to pay the bills.
“While [they are] are some of the most vulnerable in Arlington, they’re also incredibly hard-working,” she says.
As the federal budget battle for fiscal year 2026 plays out, PathForward is bracing for potential shortfalls. Public funding accounts for roughly 80% of its budget, and homelessness is on the rise.
“The Point in Time Count shows us that more people are not getting the help that they need, and they are finding themselves on the streets,” Frantz says. “Now more than ever, we need individual donors and our community to step up. If we can get individuals housed, they have a really good chance of becoming stable in life. But unhoused? No.”
Recent efforts to clear homeless encampments in the District could leave nonprofits in neighboring jurisdictions even more strained for resources if displaced individuals decide to relocate. Arlington County officials say they have yet to see a measurable increase in unhoused people coming from D.C., but time will tell.
PREPARING FOR AN UNCERTAIN FUTURE
As Arlington’s social service providers scramble for stability, the atmosphere is tense. Nonprofit leaders say they can’t help worrying that more upheaval may lie ahead.
“What keeps me up at night? It’s the lack of predictability and inability to plan,” Frantz says. “There are so many different scenarios; I don’t spend my time worrying about any one specific scenario. What I do spend my time on is making sure we’re financially sound, and that’s where the community can really come in to support us.”
PathForward and other nonprofits are in constant contact with one another for support and to share resources.
Interconnectedness is part of AFAC’s blueprint. “We’re all serving, in one way or another, the same population,” Meng says. More than 30 organizations have the ability to refer clients to AFAC for food assistance. In addition to serving families directly, the food pantry provides groceries to other local organizations, including PathForward and Culpepper Garden. “We don’t use the word ‘no’ down here,” Meng says.
He and other nonprofit leaders meet regularly as members of the Arlington Nonprofit Collective, an informal group of dozens of social service organizations.
“We’re all supportive of one another; we all serve a lot of the same people or do similar work,” says Gray of Culpepper Garden. “We’re all looking to find ways to do more with less, and to really be engaged.”
Devanshi Patel, CEO of the Arlington-based Center for Youth and Family Advocacy (CYFA), has coordinated the work of the collective for the past two years, though she says its history goes back decades.
“This year, we are really leaning into how we can more effectively work together,” she says. “Things are changing very quickly. It’s going to require us to be…more proactive and resourceful and have more partnerships with one another.”
Nothing is off the table. Ideas they’ve kicked around include pooling money to leverage health care coverage or teaming up on grant applications. “We can do better together,” Patel says.
In recent years, members of the collective have banded together to petition the county board for additional funding around issues such as teen mental health. “We are the organizations that are closest to the people who have the lived experience,” Patel asserts.
County Manager Mark Schwartz, Arlington Public Schools Superintendent
“Now more than ever, we need individual donors and our community to step up.”
Francisco Duran and Arlington Department of Human Services (DHS) Director Anita Friedman have sat in on some of the meetings. “There’s really good public-private collaboration,” Patel says.
In March, the county announced $1.8 million in funding to 23 local nonprofits as part of its equity-focused RACE to Rebuilding Trust and Community grant program, launched in 2023.
Arlington DHS recently boosted its contracts with nonprofits tackling homelessness and intimate partner violence. “Arlington County continues to monitor decisions from the federal government for any potential impacts to the community, including area nonprofits,” says a DHS spokesperson.
Doorways partners with multiple nonprofits, including AFAC, PathForward and True Ground Housing Partners (formerly APAH). “While this is not a pandemic, there are lessons we all... learned from the pandemic that we’re applying once again,” Ortiz says. “We’re in constant communication because things are moving rapidly.”
Many organizations report that their level of collaboration has increased this year. “A lot of us in this nonprofit safety net...we’re serving the same families,” says Aspire’s Fynboh. “While there’s an increased need, I think there’s also increased camaraderie and a sense of community. Just working together differently and more creatively to find solutions.”
Aspire is now partnering with Bridges to Independence, a local nonprofit providing emergency shelter, housing assistance and other services to low-income families. Together, the two organizations are developing a workforce readiness program that will recruit young adults for roles in Aspire
classrooms. It’s a win-win, Fynboh says. Aspire students will receive more hands-on attention, and the classroom experience will help prepare those recruits for education and childcare jobs in the community.
Arlington Free Clinic similarly serves as a “training ground” for the medical students who volunteer there. “We’re contributing to the safety net in not only providing direct services, but also in raising up a new generation of service providers,” Daigle says.
With Giving Tuesday and the holiday season just around the corner, nonprofit execs are hoping for a year-end boost in donations as Arlingtonians round out their charitable giving and take advantage of end-of-year tax incentives.
The county government is also stepping in. In April, the Arlington County Board added $11 million to a stabilization fund—in part to help offset shortfalls in federal funding—bringing the fund’s total to $32.5 million. Arlington county has about $40 million in federal contracts for human services, says ACF’s Marroquín, who also serves as chair of the county’s Social Services Advisory Board.
While no amount of individual giving will close the gap, Marroquín stresses that every little bit makes a difference. “It’s important to not let that overwhelming feeling prevent action. It shouldn’t be paralysis by analysis.”
In this climate, agility is an asset. Frantz of PathForward says safety net providers are pivoting as best they can to accommodate as many clients as possible.
“We live in a very compassionate community, and I think we have a very compassionate county government,” she says. “Trying to do what’s best for human life has always been our primary focus. Our focus is to help those in need.” ■
Eliza
Tebo is a freelance writer covering education, arts and culture in the D.C. area.
The Clothesline for Arlington Kids
Guide toGiving
Want to make a difference in your community? These local nonprofits need your support.
The following organizations are based in Northern Virginia and provide critical services to the immediate community. Many thanks to the Arlington Community Foundation (ACF) for its help in compiling this resource. An SSL next to a nonprofit’s listing indicates the availability of college internships or student servicelearning opportunities. For more giving options, refer to ACF’s Arlington Nonprofit Directory at arlcf.org/non-profits-search.
Affordable Homes & Communities (AHC)
AHC (ahcommunities.org) provides quality affordable housing to nearly 20,000 residents across 55 communities in Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C. AHC also offers holistic resident services programs, including education and social services to help residents build more stable and successful lives.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $50 funds literacy-building afterschool activities, including audiobooks, listening devices and vocabulary puzzles.
❱❱ $250 provides emergency groceries to families struggling with new hardships.
❱❱ $1,000 supports a college field trip and educational tools for high school students. Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers are
the heart of AHC’s Resident Services programs, providing essential support for AHC’s K-12 education programs, special events and distributions. Volunteer opportunities are available for adults and high school students on a weekly or one-time basis. SSL
Animal Welfare League of Arlington (AWLA)
For more than 80 years, the Animal Welfare League of Arlington (awla.org) has provided animal sheltering, pet adoptions, community support programs and animal control services to keep animals healthy, happy and home. AWLA’s Wildlife Resource Center is Arlington County’s first stop for injured, sick and orphaned wildlife, providing urgent care and working closely with licensed rehabilitation partners. AWLA’s community programs include a robust foster network, low-cost and free pet clinics, behavior support,
Animal Welfare League of Arlington
lost and found reunification, and a pet pantry that provides both in-shelter sustenance and off-site pet food distribution events across Arlington. What a donation can do:
❱❱ $35 feeds a shelter pet for a week or helps stock the community pet pantry.
❱❱ $50 provides a microchip and ID tag to reunite a lost pet with its family.
❱❱ $250 supports urgent medical care for a shelter or community animal in need.
Volunteer opportunities:
Volunteers 18 and older are needed for dog walking, cat socialization, food prep, kennel cleaning, pantry organization, adoption counseling, front desk support, laundry, fostering, and off-site pet food distribution. Spanish-speaking volunteers are especially in demand. Select roles are available to teens ages 16-18, including internships, service learning hours, and senior experience placements. SSL
Arlington Community Foundation
Arlington Community Foundation (arlcf. org) provides the tools and expertise to help individuals, families and businesses personalize and maximize charitable giving. In 2024, ACF facilitated more than $3 million in nonprofit grants and more than $700,000 in scholarships to local students. Its bird’s-eye view of Arlington helps ACF recognize and foster unique connections between community members, resources and local nonprofits, while launching cross-sector initiatives and pilots that test strategies for
■ guide to giving
expanding economic opportunity and preventing displacement. ACF also hosts gatherings such as the Arlington Women Community Builders and the LGBTQ+ Community Group.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $50 supplements afterschool activities, fuels a community scholarship, supports Potomac River access, advances Arlington arts, or helps create safe spaces for marginalized youth.
❱❱ $1,500 provides one college scholarship or a prompt-response grant (e.g., a replacement washer and dryer for a homeless shelter).
❱❱ $10,000 kickstarts a permanent scholarship fund or charitable giving fund.
Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers assist with fundraising, events, social media, community outreach and professional services, and serve on grant or scholarship review committees. The youth-led Arlington Youth Philanthropy Initiative (AYPI) awards grants to youth-initiated service projects and nonprofits. SSL
Arlington Food Assistance Center (AFAC)
The Arlington Food Assistance Center (afac.org) feeds neighbors in need by providing dignified access to supplemental groceries. The groceries are given directly and free of charge to people living in Arlington and surrounding areas who cannot afford to purchase enough food to meet their basic needs.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $800 per month provides 100 families with a half-gallon of milk.
❱❱ $890 per month provides 100 families with a carton of eggs.
❱❱ $900 per month provides 100 families with fresh fruits.
❱❱ $1,040 per month provides 100 families with fresh vegetables.
Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers of all ages organize food drives. Those 12 and older may help with re-bagging bulk purchases at AFAC’s warehouse. SSL
Arlington Free Clinic
Established in 1994, the Arlington Free Clinic (arlingtonfreeclinic.org) is Arlington’s only provider of comprehensive healthcare services for low-income adults without health insurance. Every year, with the help of more than 450 volunteers and 45 full/part-time staff, AFC provides more than 10,000 medical visits to over 1,600 of our community’s most vulnerable residents.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $150 covers one month of specialized drugs that cannot be procured through regular suppliers.
❱❱ $250 covers dental assessments for 10 patients or supports a patient’s medical visit to AFC.
❱❱ $2,500 helps cover the cost of 10 medical visits to the clinic.
Volunteer opportunities: AFC is always looking for volunteer physicians (primary
or specialty), nurse practitioners, nurses, dentists and Spanish interpreters. Registered dietitians, diabetic educators, gynecologists, optometrists, pulmonologists and rheumatologists are especially needed right now.
Arlington Neighborhood Village
Arlington Neighborhood Village (anvar lington.org) provides the “extra help” Arlington County residents ages 55 and older need to continue living in their own homes and communities as they age. More than 320 volunteers provide services, social support and engagement for some 500 ANV members, 45% of whom have limited income. One-third of ANV members have mobility, eyesight or hearing challenges. Roughly 75% are female, 66% live alone, and 44% are age 80 or older.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $50 supports a criminal background and driving record check for a prospective volunteer.
❱❱ $100 helps fund Thanksgiving and holiday celebration meals that reduce loneliness and create connection during the holiday season.
❱❱ $450 provides a full range of services for a lower-income senior for one year. Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers provide transportation to medical appointments, run errands, shop for groceries, pick up prescriptions, assist with technology and household tasks, and connect
Arlington Thrive
500 People Housed Since 2007 47,832+ Meals Served Annually $12M Annual Budget 200 Arlington Apartments Our Clients Call Home
At PathForward, we empower those experiencing homelessness to build a foundation of lasting stability from the ground up. Our support services help remove barriers to personal self-sufficiency which lead to a brighter future with permanent housing, improved health, employment and more. But we can’t do it alone. We need your generosity to end homelessness in Arlington.
Invest in our community. Invest in humanity. Invest in change.
■ guide to giving
with seniors via telephone and in-person visits to reduce social isolation. Volunteers also help with behind-the-scenes tasks ranging from finance and IT to fundraising and strategic planning. ANV welcomes individuals 18 and over (21 for those who wish to drive). All must receive training and pass a background check.
Arlington Thrive
For more than 50 years, Arlington Thrive (arlingtonthrive.org) has provided neighbors in need with timely support to stabilize their lives and prevent homelessness. By offering rapid financial assistance to cover urgent needs such as rent, utilities, medical care and child care, Thrive helps families weather crises without losing their footing. A Community Navigator provides guidance to clients pursuing job training and certificate programs that increase earning potential. The Wee Thrive Baby Box program equips new parents with infant supplies and safe sleep resources. What a donation can do:
❱❱ $100 provides a week of basic groceries for a family of four.
❱❱ $500 helps cover a month’s rent or a security deposit for a family at risk of eviction.
❱❱ $1,000 equips five adults with the tools they need to complete job training and increase their earning potential.
Volunteer opportunities:
Volunteers assist with the Wee Thrive Baby Box program, tabling events and other family support initiatives. Opportunities are available for students, including internships and service-learning hours for those under 18. SSL
Arm & Arm
Arm & Arm (armandarm.org) provides peer-to-peer behavioral health services (support, training, mentoring) to individuals re-entering the community following incarceration, military service, homelessness, substance abuse recovery and/or mental health challenges. What a donation can do:
❱❱ $75 covers a peer mentoring support session for one individual.
❱❱ $550 provides Game on the Line immersion training (cognitive and somatic coping skills) for one individual.
❱❱ $750 pays for one individual to receive 72 hours of Peer Recovery Training (for state certification).
❱❱ $960 funds a focus group for four to five participants struggling with severe traumatic experiences.
Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers conduct outreach to raise awareness of social isolation, opioid addiction and mental health issues, and connect with at-risk youth. Arm & Arm facilitates a monthly Shop Talk forum on issues relating to community inclusion.
Aspire Afterschool Learning
Aspire (aspireafterschool.org) expands learning opportunities to help historically underserved South Arlington students in grades 3-8 fulfill their potential through daily afterschool and summer learning programs. Committed to closing the opportunity gap, Aspire offers its programs at no cost to families.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $50 provides one day of afterschool support and a literacy kit for a student.
❱❱ $250 provides one year of books for a student.
Aspire Afterschool Learning
❱❱ $600 provides one month of daily afterschool support for a student. Volunteer opportunities: Weekly volunteers are needed between 4 and 6 p.m. to serve as one-on-one reading buddies and homework helpers for young learners, as well as during a full-day summer camp. Volunteers also help serve snack to students and organize the library. High school volunteers are welcome. For those who want to get involved but can’t commit to weekly volunteering, Aspire also hosts monthly Community Reading Nights. SSL
Bridges to Independence
Bridges to Independence (bridges2. org) leads children and families out of poverty. Its vision is to break intergenerational cycles of poverty. In addition to operating Arlington County’s only emergency shelter for families, Bridges provides a workforce development program, rapid rehousing, youth programs, afterschool tutoring, mentoring and a summer camp. The Community Service Center provides support to individuals in need of rent assistance, job readiness
training and college preparation. Current needs include donated gift cards, volunteers, tutors and mentors, as well as food and household supplies. What a donation can do:
❱❱ $250 allows one child to participate in afterschool youth development programming.
❱❱ $500 provides a laptop to a college student.
❱❱ $1,000 provides children with nourishing meals, creating lasting connections, joy and warmth during the holiday season. Volunteer opportunities: Bridges welcomes volunteers over 18 to coordinate food drives and deliveries, organize storage spaces, serve on committees, and tutor or mentor youth. Sign up to receive the monthly volunteer newsletter to learn more about student internships and service opportunities. SSL
BU-GATA
BU-GATA (bu-gata.org) partners with other community organizations to produce, preserve and advocate for affordable housing in Arlington County. It also encourages youth civic and leadership
development through its Buckingham Youth Brigade (BYB) program, which is geared toward underserved teens ages 14-18.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $50 provides snacks for weekly homework help and tutoring sessions.
❱❱ $100 provides materials for a youth skills-building workshop.
❱❱ $400 supports a college field trip and other educational trips for BYB students.
Volunteer opportunities: Virtual and in-person tutors (18 or older) are needed to assist with youth programs.
Capital Caring Health
As the region’s oldest and largest nonprofit provider of hospice and advanced illness care, Capital Caring Health (capi talcaring.org) is there for patients and families 24/7 at 800-869-2136.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $250 provides two companion robotic pets for a terminally ill child and their siblings.
❱❱ $500 covers two nursing visits to an uninsured hospice patient.
❱❱ $1,000 provides a day of comprehensive hospice care for a patient at one of Capital Caring’s inpatient facilities, open 24/7 for visiting family members.
Volunteer opportunities: Essential services include comfort and companionship for individuals with life-threatening illness and their loved ones, as well as art and music therapy, pet care (including dog walking) and counseling for those facing the loss of a loved one. Volunteers also sort, price and sell donated items in Capital Caring’s thrift store.
CARE, Inc.
The Community Association of Resources, Education, Enrichment & Economics, aka CARE (careinc1996.com), provides resources to families and youth in underserved communities, including afterschool and summer programs centering on activities such as sports and gardening. CARE also operates a farmers market to promote healthy living and encourages entrepreneurship and economic development.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $25 provides equipment such as cleats, gloves and balls for youth sports programs that level the playing field.
❱❱ $50 allows CARE to host a family of four for an educational dinner chat.
❱❱ $100 supplies one week of healthy snacks for as many as 25 students in an afterschool program.
Volunteer opportunities: As a volunteerled organization, CARE relies on volunteer facilitators, mentors and program managers to plan, organize and administer its work in the community. Interns are welcome. SSL
Center for Youth and Family Advocacy (CYFA)
CYFA (cyfadvocacy.org) invests in young people with youth-driven programs ranging from afterschool enrichment and academic support to restorative diversion that keeps students in classrooms, not courtrooms. Programs such as the Youth Advisory Board and Youth Peer Court Ambassadors help young people build leadership skills, repair harm and stay on pathways to graduation, college and careers, with a focus on healthy minds, bodies and relationships.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $100 provides school supplies and art materials for afterschool activities.
❱❱ $250 funds a youth leadership workshop on college and career readiness.
❱❱ $500 supports one youth in a restorative diversion process, a court alterna-
tive that provides accountability and a second chance.
❱❱ $1,000 funds a free teen event with food, activities and a safe space for Arlington youth to connect.
Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers assist with afterschool programs, special events and community outreach. Professionals may lend their expertise by facilitating youth workshops or sharing career skills. Student internships and senior experience projects are available. SSL
The Clothesline for Arlington Kids
The Clothesline (clotheslinearlington. org) collects funding and clothing donations so that kids from low-income Arlington families can get a season’s worth of clothes free of charge. Families of K-12 students can select a full wardrobe twice a year in the nonrprofit’s welcoming store. The Clothesline’s mission is for kids to feel dignified and comfortable in the classroom so they can focus on their education. More than 1,500 children and teens rely on The Clothesline for quality clothing each year.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $60 provides socks and underwear for a family with four kids.
❱❱ $120 provides shoes to four kids.
❱❱ $200 fully funds a complete wardrobe for a child.
Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers sort and hang clothing donations and assist families shopping in the store. Older teens (15+) are welcome on sorting days or can organize a clothing drive. SSL
Comunidad
Comunidad (comunidadva.org) engages local leaders in programs that strengthen families, guide youth and build a vibrant multicultural community. From elementary-age reading programs to coding bootcamps, soccer clinics and adult learning, Comunidad creates pathways where growth, belonging and opportunity can flourish. Located in Seven Corners, the organization supports children and families living in the Willston and Kingsley neighborhoods of Falls Church and Arlington.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $50 provides books and materials for a child in the Strong Readers, Strong Leaders program.
❱❱ $150 supports weekly mentorship, enrichment activities, a soccer clinic, coding bootcamp or college prep for teens.
❱❱ $500 helps fund classes such as
Culpepper Garden
computer literacy, English language learning, and family support services that empower parents and adults.
Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers serve as reading coaches, soccer coaches and teen mentors, and support family programs through events and family dinners. Volunteer reading coaches must be high-school age or older. Volunteers of all ages can help at Comunidad’s monthly food distribution. SSL
Communities in Schools NOVA
Communities in Schools of Northern Virginia (cisofnova.org) empowers students to stay in school and achieve in life by addressing both academic and non-academic barriers to success. Site coordinators inside schools deliver one-on-one case management, small group support and schoolwide programming. The mission is to ensure that every student, regardless of race, ZIP code or socioeconomic background, has what they need to succeed in school and beyond.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $250 provides school supplies for 10 students.
❱❱ $1,000 funds an afterschool program
with essential supplies and healthy snacks, creating a safe, engaging space for 50 students to thrive.
❱❱ $5,000 supports life-changing internships that provide real-world experience and mentorship to high school students.
Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers serve as tutors and guest speakers at career events, and assist with other events and outreach.
Culpepper Garden
Culpepper Garden (culpeppergarden.org) is a nonprofit senior living community providing high-quality affordable housing, programs and services to older adults on fixed and very low incomes. It maintains three independent senior living buildings with 346 apartments in a caring community where older adults can age in place with dignity and independence. What a donation can do:
❱❱ $250 covers one month of water and nutritious snacks for resident activities and events.
❱❱ $500 provides devices and technology assistance to help seniors stay engaged and connected in a digital world.
❱❱ $1,000 covers one month of fuel to
transport residents to medical appointments and other vital services on the community’s bus.
Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers 16 and older provide technology assistance to residents, organize games and social activities, remove invasive plants, help maintain the community gardens and host food drives for an onsite food pantry. Culpepper Garden provides unpaid internships for college students and service-learning hours for students under 18. For more information, contact VP of Development Jasmin Witcher at 703528-0162, ext. 104. SSL
Doorways
Every day, thousands of adults, youth and children in Arlington suffer the impacts of domestic violence and sexual assault. Intimate partner violence is a leading cause of homelessness, especially among women and families. As Arlington’s only provider of emergency shelter, services and supportive housing for survivors and their families, Doorways (doorwaysva.org) is seeing a dramatic increase in those requiring emergency shelter to escape harm. The
Center for Youth and Family Advocacy
■ guide to giving
nonprofit recently doubled its shelter capacity, while offering a full spectrum response to domestic and sexual violence, from prevention programming for youth to community-based services and supportive housing.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $250 provides a play-based or artbased therapy session for a child healing from the impacts of domestic violence.
❱❱ $500 supports a family graduating from Doorways’ shelter to its HomeStart supportive housing program, funding essentials like a new bed and kitchen supplies.
❱❱ $1,400 provides one week of shelter and services to a survivor escaping domestic violence.
Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers 18 and older who have graduated from high school are needed to assist with shelter coverage, children’s activities, administrative support and fundraising. Individuals working directly with clients must complete at least 40 hours of training and a background check. Community groups, including youth and children, can help by organizing collection drives, fundraisers and awareness events, and by hosting educational prevention workshops led by Doorways’ staff. SSL
Dream Project
Founded in 2011, the Dream Project (dream-project.org) empowers students from Virginia’s immigrant communities to succeed in college or vocational training through scholarships, mentoring, family engagement and holistic support throughout their education. This year, the organization awarded more than $400,000 in scholarships to 107 students.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $100 allows one Dream Scholar to attend the annual Dream Summit conference.
❱❱ $500 allows one student to participate in college coaching and support.
❱❱ $4,000 funds a Dream Scholarship for one student.
Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers serve as mentors, serve on committees and assist with fundraising events.
EcoAction Arlington
EcoAction Arlington (ecoactionarling ton.org) educates, advocates and strives to create a sustainable community by improving the natural environment, encouraging environmentally friendly behaviors, ensuring environmental jus-
tice and addressing the climate crisis. EcoAction Arlington offers regular education programs (both virtual and in-person) and volunteer service opportunities. What a donation can do:
❱❱ $250 buys and plants one tree.
❱❱ $1,000 covers materials for energyand water-efficiency improvements in the homes of 25 low-income families.
Volunteer opportunities: EcoAction Arlington organizes public stream and park cleanup events for volunteers of all ages. Outdoor service projects can be customized for business, community and school groups. EcoAmbassadors (formerly Energy Masters) is a climateand energy-centered training program for volunteers 16 and older. Specific focus areas include reducing energy use and electrifying the home, shifting to eco-friendly transportation choices, and minimizing waste through service projects and community engagement. High school students hold positions on the nonprofit’s board of directors and can complete senior experience internships in May/June. SSL
Educational Theatre Company
Educational Theatre Company (ETC)
ETC (educationaltheatrecompany.org) aims to unlock the potential of youth through immersion in theater arts. Now in its 25th year, ETC provides processdriven theater education to students ages 3 to 103 in the greater D.C. region.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $90 provides a scholarship for an elementary student attend a Drama Day during a no-school day.
❱❱ $435 provides a one-week summer camp scholarship to a student between the ages of 5 and 18.
❱❱ $1,000 provides a nine-week afterschool class to 12 students at a Title 1 elementary school.
❱❱ $5,000 provides nine weeks of classes for six pre-K classrooms in a South Arlington public school.
Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers are needed to serve on the board, organize ETC’s storage area and provide online assistance with administrative duties. Paid internships are available for high school and college students. SSL
Edu-Futuro
Edu-Futuro (edu-futuro.org) empowers disadvantaged children, youth, first-generation college students and families to succeed and fully contribute to their community. The nonprofit focuses on education, leadership development, parent engagement and workforce development to break the cycle of poverty and close the achievement gap. After the pandemic, Edu-Futuro added individual case management to support program participants who lost their jobs due to job realignments, health issues or financial crises. That support includes emergency financial assistance for rent, utilities, food and other needs.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $500 covers supplies for five middle school students attending Edu-Futuro’s annual regional robotics competition.
❱❱ $1,000 covers a stipend for a lowincome high school student to hold an internship before beginning college.
❱❱ $5,000 covers the rental fees for one bus, enabling 50 disadvantaged students to tour a college campus.
Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers men-
tor high school students in a leadership development and college readiness workshop series offered three times per year. In addition, professional volunteers may serve as college and career panelists, speech/essay competition judges, and committee members for the Emerging Leaders Program (ELP). Financial literacy coaches with expertise in budgeting and personal credit are needed for the Parent Empowerment Services (PES) program.
Encore Learning
Encore Learning (encorelearning.net) is dedicated to providing high-quality, lifelong learning at a reasonable cost for anyone over 50, via daytime college-level courses, clubs and special events. Courses are taught by working and retired scholars and business professionals. Classes, clubs and events are offered both in-person and virtually. The Encore Learning Presents series includes public lectures, panels and film screenings. Encore Learning and its donors support the Arthur W. Gosling Scholarship, which awards $2,500 annu-
■ guide to giving
ally to an Arlington Public Schools graduate to attend George Mason University or Marymount University.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $175 funds an annual membership and one class per semester for a limited-income student.
❱❱ $850 buys a laptop for part-time staff.
❱❱ $5,000 covers the cost of marketing for one semester, including the design, advertising, printing and mailing of fliers. Volunteer opportunities: Encore Learning is a volunteer-led organization with administrative support provided by parttime staff. Volunteers serve as course instructors who develop and teach semester-long courses over a four- to 10-week period. Volunteers also recruit new instructors; seek speakers and performers for special events; write and edit course catalogs; initiate and maintain clubs; advise on office technology; organize social functions; and recruit, train and support class aides. Encore Learning welcomes volunteers of any age and has worked with college students on academic projects. SSL
ENDependence Center of
Northern Virginia (ECNV) ECNV (ecnv.org) empowers people with disabilities to live independently through skills training, peer mentoring, advocacy, travel training and community education.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $35 helps cover the cost of durable medical equipment, such as a cane or tub seat, for someone in need.
❱❱ $150 supports independent living skills training on topics such as money management, personal care or how to access community resources.
❱❱ $500 funds a group social outing for young adults and adults with disabilities, reducing feelings of isolation and building community connections.
Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers assist with community outreach, provide support at social outings, help distribute durable medical equipment, and contribute to events or workshops. Peer mentor opportunities are available for college students interested in disability services, advocacy, and nonprofit management. SSL
English Empowerment Center
Formerly known as the Literacy Council of Northern Virginia, the English Empowerment Center (englishempower mentcenter.org) teaches adults the basic skills of reading, writing, speaking and understanding English so they can access employment and educational opportunities and more fully and equitably participate in the community. EEC is currently providing both in-person and live-streamed group instruction.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $85 provides a student scholarship.
❱❱ $100 trains two volunteer instructors.
❱❱ $500 supports five families in EEC’s Family Learning Program.
Volunteer opportunities: Volunteer teachers lead classroom instruction two to three times a week per three-month semester. Class aides support learners in the classroom once or twice a week. Tutors provide supplemental instruction before or after class. Assessment specialists assess learners for appropriate program placement and measure their progress six times a year. Others help with class registration, outreach, office tasks and special projects. Unpaid internships are available to students over 18. SSL
Food for Neighbors
Food For Neighbors (foodforneighbors. org) tackles teen food insecurity by partnering with 53 Northern Virginia middle and high schools and mobilizing over 3,800 volunteers to support students in need. Through its Red Bag Program, donors fill a provided bag with food five times a year and leave it by their front door. Volunteers then collect, sort and distribute the food through schools to students who need extra support on weekends and school breaks. FFN also provides grocery store gift cards so that families can choose foods that meet their cultural and personal needs. This year, FFN expects to collect more than 150,000 pounds of food donations to help more than 10,000 students.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $100 provides supplemental food to 20 students so they don’t go hungry over a weekend.
❱❱ $500 provides grocery gift cards for 10 area families to purchase the food they need most.
❱❱ $1,500 builds a food pantry for a newly partnering school to store food and toiletries.
Volunteer opportunities: Community members are invited to donate food and toiletry items five times a year as part of FFN’s Red Bag Program. Volunteers ages 9 and older may help collect and sort the donations at sites in Arlington, Fairfax and Loudoun counties. Individuals and groups are welcome, and students may earn service hours. Food drives and team-building service opportunities are also available. SSL
Homestretch
Homestretch (homestretchva.org) empowers homeless families to secure perma-
nent housing and attain the skills, knowledge and hope they need to achieve self-sufficiency. Services include intensive case management, career and job coaching, scholarship support, housing location, tenant literacy training, financial literacy education, one-on-one tutoring, and childcare services including a nursery and licensed preschool. The most pressing current needs are for Uber cards for transportation, food gift cards (Aldi, Giant, Safeway, Harris Teeter and Target), household cleaning products, toilet paper, paper towels, large kitchen trash bags and laundry detergent.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $250 buys shoes for 15 children or five gas or Uber cards for working parents.
❱❱ $500 buys a week’s worth of groceries for two families.
❱❱ $1,500 funds dental work for two or three homeless adults, or car repairs for working parents who need their cars to get to work.
❱❱ $20,000 covers one family’s housing costs for one year.
Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers tutor adults in subjects such as ESOL, GED
prep, and computer literacy; prepare apartments for incoming families; organize donation drives; assist with property landscaping; help in the preschool or nursery; and provide pro bono expertise in their professional fields. Service projects can be adapted to fit school service commitments or learning credits. SSL
HopeLink Behavioral Health
HopeLink (hopelinkbh.org), formerly PRS, Inc., provides behavioral health, crisis and suicide intervention services to adults, youth and families in Virginia. Its vision is to change and save lives by empowering hope, safety, recovery, wellness, independence and community integration. Services include the 988 hotline, textline and chat, as well as Recovery Academy day programs, employment support services, peer services and outpatient therapy.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $100 funds supplies for programs centering on music and art recovery, health and wellness, and coping skills for clients in Recovery Academy day programs.
❱❱ $250 sponsors training for one 988
hotline volunteer who can answer 450 calls per year.
❱❱ $500 provides five hours of skill-building sessions for uninsured clients who need assistance with medication management, housing and independent living skills.
Volunteer opportunities: Crisis workers provide crisis and suicide intervention services via phone, text or chat to community members contacting 988. Volunteers must be 21 or older, undergo intensive training and make a weekly
Food for Neighbors
HopeLink
■ guide to giving
commitment for a minimum of one year via remote call center. Volunteer opportunities also are offered in the Recovery Academy programs, events and administrative offices. Internships are available.
Just Neighbors
Just Neighbors (justneighbors.org) supports immigrant communities in the DMV by providing high-quality immigration legal services to low-income immigrants, asylees and refugees. The nonprofit builds community through education, advocacy and volunteerism.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $75 allows an immigrant to obtain their first work permit.
❱❱ $150 reunites an unaccompanied youth with their family.
❱❱ $500 helps a refugee family apply for lawful permanent residency (green cards). Volunteer opportunities: In-office volunteers help with client intake via phone (Spanish-speaking volunteers are needed), on-site reception, interpretation and translation services and legal casework (Tuesday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.). Immigration clinic volunteers (daytime and evenings) help clients fill out documents and prepare their immigration applications. Volunteer attorneys and law students provide face-to-face counsel for low-income immigrants and refugees. Volunteers who are not attorneys can help with translations, outreach and other support. Because of the sensitive nature of Just Neighbors’ cases, volunteers must be over 18 years old.
Kitchen of Purpose
Kitchen of Purpose (kitchenofpurpose. org) provides free bilingual job training to individuals seeking careers in the food and beverage industry, as well as a small business incubator that creates jobs and small businesses in underserved communities. Through innovative food assistance programs, KOP also provides fresh, healthy meals to marginalized communities. Together, its programs form an ecosystem of support, elevating the way people eat, work and raise their families.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $50 pays for a professional quality chef’s apron for one student.
❱❱ $100 covers an entire chef’s uniform (hat, shirt, pants).
❱❱ $250 outfits a student with a full suite of culinary gear, including a uniform and knives.
❱❱ $500 funds 100 afterschool lunches.
❱❱ $1,000 covers a sponsorship for Fam-
ily Meal, a program serving meals with dignity to community members in need. Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers can provide small-business mentoring and professional “skill sharing,” and help with KOP’s Family Meal program.
L’Arche Greater Washington, D.C.
L’Arche Greater Washington, D.C. (larchegwdc.org) provides housing and support services to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Its homes in South Arlington regularly welcome new and old friends to engage in home life and community.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $8 supplements one hour of government payments for direct support professionals, allowing trained caregivers to receive a meaningful wage.
❱❱ $75 buys one day’s worth of groceries for one of L’Arche’s residential homes.
❱❱ $250 provides one week of gas and vehicle maintenance for accessible vehicles that transport residents to work, church, medical appointments and social events.
Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers are vital in creating a family-like spirit in L’Arche homes. Volunteer activities
L’Arche Greater Washington, D.C.
include cooking meals, working in the gardens, joining residents for dinner and spending one-on-one time with adults with disabilities. L’Arche also welcomes adult groups and student groups for presentations and volunteer days. SSL
Legal Aid Justice Center
In Arlington County and across Virginia, the Legal Aid Justice Center (justice4all. org) maintains Immigrant Justice Programs focused on protecting the rights of low-income immigrants, particularly those who lack legal residency status, live in mixed-status households, or whose status may be revoked or is being threatened by changes to immigration policies. LAJC’s services include deportation defense, immigration bond representation, Know Your Rights (KYR) sessions, and emergency preparedness clinics that help families complete critical guardianship and power of attorney documents. What a donation can do:
❱❱ $100 invests in family preparedness and protection.
❱❱ $500 supports critical legal advocacy for detained individuals.
❱❱ $2,000 powers deportation defense that keeps families together. Volunteer opportunities: Spanish-speaking volunteers are needed to answer immigration enforcement related hotline calls. Training is provided.
Meals on Wheels Arlington
Since 1974, Meals on Wheels Arlington (mealsonwheelsarlington.com) has been providing nutritious meals and personal contact to Arlington seniors and residents with disabilities who are homebound and food insecure, so that they may continue to live independently. The communityfocused organization believes that every person deserves food security and a good meal. Meals on Wheels Arlington is part of the Combined Federal Campaign. Federal employees and retirees can donate using CFC code 941214. What a donation can do:
❱❱ $270 provides a month’s worth of meals for a homebound Arlington resident.
❱❱ $1,400 covers three months of meal delivery costs for 200 clients.
❱❱ $3,200 provides meals for one full
$250
$500
year for a homebound Arlington resident.
Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers interested in delivering meals (or in helping to load or unload meals from drivers’ cars) can sign up to do so on a weekly or monthly basis. Students under 18 may volunteer to load vehicles, although volunteer hours are generally on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., which may conflict with academic schedules. SSL
OAR of Arlington, Alexandria, and Falls Church 50 Years of Unwavering Commitment to Justice, Joy, and Liberation
OAR of Arlington, Alexandria, and Falls Church 50 Years of Unwavering Commitment to Justice, Joy, and Liberation
OAR GIVING GUIDE
OAR GIVING GUIDE
Donations of all levels are welcome
Donations of all levels are welcome
supports ID retrieval for participants needed to secure housing and employment.
$250 supports ID retrieval for participants needed to secure housing and employment.
supports one month of coaching for a participant including wrap-around direct services and employment assistance.
$1,000 $2,500 $5,000
$500 supports one month of coaching for a participant including wrap-around direct services and employment assistance.
$1,000 supports housing assistance (rent, application fees, security deposit, eviction prevention, and more) for one participant.
supports reentry services (transportation, housing assistance, mental health support,substanceusedisordertreatment,laptopswithinternet,smartphones withminutes/data,etc.)forparticipants.
supports OAR’s Alternative Sentencing and Diversion Programs including courtfeesandcostsforparticipantssothattheycanstay inthecommunity.
$10,000
$2,500 supports reentry services (transportation, housing assistance, mental health support, substance use disorder treatment, laptops with internet, smartphones with minutes/data, etc.) for participants.
supports family connection and reunification for 200 children and families whohaveaparentorpartnercurrentlyexperiencingincarcerationorhas beenrecentlyreleased.
Donate online on the OAR website at http://bit.ly/oardonate Mail donations to P.O. Box 41030, Arlington, VA 22204
$5,000 supports OAR’s Alternative Sentencing and Diversion Programs including court fees and costs for participants so that they can stay in the community.
OAR is a community-based nonprofit organization that envisions a safe and thriving community where those impacted by the legal system enjoy equal civil and human rights. “Upstream,” we are confronting and dismantling individual racism and racism in the legal system and across all systems. “Downstream” we are on the journey with individuals of all genders returning from incarceration and their families and offer alternative sentencing options (including community service) and diversion programs so people can avoid the trauma of incarceration and instead help the community thrive.
$10,000 supports family connection and reunification for 200 children and families who have a parent or partner currently experiencing incarceration or has been recently released.
OAR of Arlington, Alexandria and Falls Church 703-745-5441 | www.OARonline.org Follow OAR on social media: @OARJustice
Meals on Wheels Arlington
Elizabeth Jones Valderrama, OAR Collective Member of 20 years with the last 10 years as the Executive Director and Katy Steinbruck, OAR Collective Member of 25 years with the last 10 years as the Deputy Director, and Charlie, OAR’s Ambassador of Happiness and Therapy Dog.
■ guide to giving
National Capital Treatment & Recovery
Founded in 1962, National Capital Treatment & Recovery (natcaptreatment.org) delivers high-quality, evidence-based care to individuals struggling with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health challenges. NCTR equips patients with the tools they need to achieve lasting recovery and lead independent, productive, drug-free lives. NCTR’s comprehensive continuum of care includes gender-specific residential treatment for adult men and women. Outpatient offerings feature tiered programming with counseling, education, support groups and individualized services. Family members are engaged through a weekly “Concerned Persons Conversations” group, ensuring loved ones are part of the healing journey. Financial donations to the Patient Assistance Fund or Young Adult Treatment Fund in Memory of John Buck support treatment costs for those who lack insurance or otherwise cannot afford care.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $250 purchases one weekly dinner for adolescent patients in an outpatient treatment program and their families.
❱❱ $500 contributes to the outdoor landscape renovation campaign at the nonprofit’s Demeter House Women’s Residential Treatment Program.
❱❱ $1,100 supports one day of equine therapy sessions for six patients.
Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers serve on NCTR’s board and committees and assist with fundraising and marketing. Internships are available for college students majoring in counseling or related fields. SSL
Northern Virginia Family Services
Northern Virginia Family Services (nvfs. org) supports about 40,000 individuals and families each year on their journey to self-sufficiency, providing the support and resources they need to thrive.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $50 provides a portable crib for one newborn.
❱❱ $100 covers health screenings for 50 children.
❱❱ $500 provides five nights of emergency shelter for a family in need.
Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers are needed to assist with classroom activities in NVFS Head Start classrooms in Arlington. The Clock Tower Thrift Shop in Falls Church offers volunteer opportunities daily, including weekends (youth
12+ must be accompanied by a parent). Volunteers are also invited to organize donation drives for food, toiletries and new and gently used clothing and coats for 3-5-year-olds. SSL
OAR of Arlington, Alexandria and Falls Church
OAR (oaronline.org) envisions a safe and thriving community where those impacted by the legal system enjoy equal civil and human rights. Through its “upstream” work, OAR is confronting and dismantling individual racism and racism in the legal system and across all systems. “Downstream” work allows OAR to be on the journey with individuals of all genders returning from incarceration and
their families. OAR also offers alternative sentencing options (including community service) and diversion programs so people can avoid the trauma of incarceration and instead help their community to thrive.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $100 provides transportation for five participants recently released from incarceration.
❱❱ $500 covers up to three months of coaching for one participant.
❱❱ $5,000 provides up to a year’s worth of re-entry services (housing and transportation assistance, ID retrieval, mental health services, food, clothing, laptops, smartphones with minutes and data, family reunification) for one participant.
PathForward
Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers are needed for various roles. Please visit oaraaf.org/oar-volunteer to see current openings.
PathForward
PathForward ( pfva.org ) envisions a world where everyone enjoys stability, dignity and freedom from homelessness. The organization provides safe, permanent housing solutions, paired with life-changing support services that help individuals move from homelessness to stability and lasting independence.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $100 purchases 20 bagged meals.
❱❱ $250 purchases 25 warm blankets and wool socks.
❱❱ $750 covers three comprehensive health visits with a medical professional, mental health social worker and case management support.
Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers are needed to help with food preparation and cafeteria-style dinner service at the Homeless Services Center. PathForward serves three meals per day, including a nutritious hot dinner, made fresh
in its commercial kitchen, which serves upwards of 80-90 people. Volunteers are a great help in making sure everyone is served a meal with a smile. Teens ages 13 and older may volunteer with a parent or guardian for select opportunities. SSL
Phoenix Bikes
Phoenix Bikes (phoenixbikes.org) combines youth educational programs with a full-service bike shop. Every year, 300400 local middle and high school students benefit from free youth programming that includes learning hands-on mechanics skills, riding and racing, and building meaningful relationships with peers and mentors.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $30 provides one U-lock and helmet for an Earn-a-Bike program graduate.
❱❱ $40 provides a new floor pump for youth learning how to fix flat tires.
❱❱ $125 provides new cables (for shifting and braking) for 15 Earn-a-Bike students.
Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers help plan and execute community events, assist with youth rides, tinker with bikes in the shop and support youth education and community service programs.
Postpartum Support Virginia
Postpartum Support Virginia (postpartum va.org) is on a mission to educate families, health care providers and communities about perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) and to provide resources to help new and expectant mothers and their families overcome anxiety, depression and other PMADs.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $100 funds PSVa’s Warm Line for one week.
❱❱ $250 covers one month of free support group meetings.
❱❱ $1,000 provides a full-day training session for peer mentor and social support volunteers.
Volunteer opportunities: Trained volunteers lead support groups, serve as peer mentors and field calls to the PSVa Warm Line. Volunteers also assist with fundraisers, special events, community outreach, social media and administrative tasks. Internships and service hours are available. SSL
Read Early and Daily (READ)
Read Early and Daily (readearlyand daily.org) was created to address read-
■ guide to giving
ing inequities faced by the community’s youngest and most economically vulnerable children. The Arlington nonprofit puts new, free, quality, culturally relevant books into the hands of babies and toddlers every month.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $50 funds one month of texting weekly reading and parenting tips to 200 families.
❱❱ $100 provides five uninsured pregnant moms-to-be with a bundle of five bilingual board books with reading tips.
❱❱ $500 funds a full year of participation in the READ With Me monthly book club for five babies in need.
Volunteer opportunities: Adult volunteers deliver books to enrolled families, assist with administrative tasks and help out at community pop-up sales and school book fairs. READ offers young people a variety of ways to volunteer, including (but not limited to) tracking inventory of
new books and assisting at community pop-up sales and book fairs. READ is happy to work with families to create parent-child volunteering opportunities for young children. SSL
Restoration Immigration Legal Aid (RILA)
RILA (restorationimmigration.org) provides pro bono legal assistance to the D.C. area’s most vulnerable immigrants, focusing on asylum-seekers and immigrant children who have experienced significant trauma and loss. RILA compassionately represents more than 1,000 clients and serves as a trusted community leader, providing direct representation and a welcoming space. What a donation can do:
❱❱ $25 funds an emergency support line for clients in crisis for one month.
❱❱ $50 provides one month’s worth of supplies for a legal clinic.
❱❱ $100 covers an initial consultation to determine a client’s eligibility for legal status.
❱❱ $375 covers the cost of applying for Legal Permanent Residency (a green card).
❱❱ $425 covers the cost of staff hours for a Know Your Rights presentation.
Volunteer opportunities: RILA’s bimonthly legal clinics welcome volunteers who provide dinner or serve as note takers, interpreters or interviewers in client meetings. Attorneys can volunteer to help with legal briefs or representation in immigration and state courts.
Rock Recovery
Founded in 2009, Rock Recovery (rock recoveryed.org) offers affordable outpatient therapy on a sliding scale for individuals with eating disorders. The organization provides life-saving clinical services and mental health support to those who couldn’t otherwise access the care they need to heal.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $25 sponsors a client’s free consultation with Rock Recovery.
❱❱ $50 covers one client’s intake fees.
❱❱ $100 provides one individual therapy session.
Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers 18 and older are needed to support Rock Recovery services and help with community events, outreach and fundraising.
True Ground Housing Partners
True Ground Housing Partners (true groundhousing.org), formerly known as APAH, provides 2,957 affordable homes across 24 communities—places where individuals and families with average annual incomes of $40,000 can build stability and pursue their dreams. Housing is only the beginning. The nonprofit also provides resident-centered programs such as afterschool enrichment, job training, wellness activities and eviction prevention.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $50 allows a student to join an afterschool activity.
❱❱ $100 buys emergency groceries for a single parent.
❱❱ $500 provides rent relief for households in crisis.
❱❱ $1,000 makes the holidays brighter for a family of five.
Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers can assist with family engagement activities, grocery distribution, literacy support and affordable housing advocacy. Student service projects and internships are available. SSL
Read Early and Daily (READ)
VHC Health
VHC Health (vhchealth.org) is an independent, not-for-profit health system. The VHC Health Foundation—the system’s 501(c)(3) philanthropy division—ensures that every patient has access to compassionate, state-of-the-art care by funding essential programs and services.
This includes the VHC Health Outpatient Clinic, which provides high-quality medical care at significantly reduced costs to Arlington County residents, regardless of insurance status.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $95 helps a patient with diabetes protect their eyesight with a needed eye exam.
❱❱ $150 gives a woman access to a mammogram for early breast cancer detection.
❱❱ $200 provides a refurbished CPAP/ BiPAP machine for a patient with sleep apnea.
❱❱ $400 ensures access to a diagnostic mammogram when more advanced breast screening is needed.
Volunteer opportunities: The health system’s Volunteer Services Group provides various kinds of support to patient representative services, inpatient hospital units, outpatient services and specialized services. VHC Health Auxiliary members help with wheelchair transportation and gift shops, and staff information desks.
Wesley Housing
Wesley Housing (wesleyhousing.org) supports more than 4,700 low-income residents living in its affordable housing communities with personal development opportunities that foster self-sufficiency.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $25 covers a month of internet access for one family.
❱❱ $200 provides one month of healthy groceries for an older adult.
❱❱ $500 grants a family of four’s wish list for the holiday season.
Volunteer opportunities: Graduate students pursuing a master’s degree in social work may serve as interns to gain experience while earning college credit. Translators fluent in Spanish, Amharic, Farsi, Korean and other languages are always needed to ensure all residents have equal access to resources. Volunteers, including students under age 18, are also invited to help facilitate a Holiday Help drive (sorting, wrapping and delivering gifts), assist with youth afterschool and summer camp programs, serve as aides in adult education pro-
Restoration Immigration Legal Aid
grams, and provide event and marketing photography. SSL
YMCA Arlington
Each year, YMCA Arlington (ymcadc. org) provides nearly 4,000 residents with wellness facilities and programming, child care, summer camps, sports (including court sports), aquatics and other family programs. The Y offers wellness programs for all ages, and scholarships and financial assistance to those in need. In 2022, the YMCA of Metropolitan Washington, which includes YMCA Arlington, provided almost $500,000
in financial assistance to area children, families and seniors.
What a donation can do:
❱❱ $1,750 covers five weeks of camp for one child.
❱❱ $2,500 provides nine months of before- and after-school care for a working parent.
❱❱ $5,000 provides one year of healthy living classes and activities for seven senior couples.
Volunteer opportunities: Volunteers are needed to assist with birthday parties, various after-school programs and community wellness programming. ■
Ask the Experts
Have I Saved Enough? The Questions Behind Retirement Readiness.
For decades, the “4% Rule” has been quoted as a simple guide to retirement readiness: if you withdraw 4% of your savings in your first year of retirement, then adjust that amount annually for inflation, your nest egg should, in theory, last about 30 years. For example, a $2.5 million portfolio could support an initial withdrawal of $100,000, with future increases to keep pace with inflation. While a helpful starting point, the rule was built on historical averages and does not fully account for today’s longer lifespans, evolving tax rules, or unpredictable markets.
Retirement is not just about hitting a number; it is about aligning your resources with the life you want to live. Will you downsize, or perhaps upsize in a new community? Do you envision more travel, philanthropic giving, or helping the next generation? Many retirees are surprised to find their expenses rise rather than fall, especially when healthcare and lifestyle goals are factored in.
Equally important is understanding your income mix. Beyond your portfolio, Social Security, pensions, or rental income may provide steady cash flow. The gap between these income sources and your desired lifestyle will dictate how much savings you truly need, and the timing of withdrawals, tax strategy, and market cycles can significantly affect the outcome.
That’s why stress-testing your plan is essential. What happens if markets dip just as you retire, or if unexpected expenses arise? Exploring these scenarios can provide insight into potential challenges and help you make more informed decisions about sustaining your lifestyle in retirement.
While rules of thumb offer guidance, every household’s journey is unique. Thoughtful planning, often in partnership with a trusted advisor, can help you prepare for uncertainty and create a framework flexible enough to support the richer life you envision in retirement.
CFP® EVERMAY WEALTH MANAGEMENT, LLC
3901 Fairfax Drive, Suite 400 Arlington, VA 22203
703-822-5696
evermaywealth.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Eric Schaefer, CFP®, serves as Senior Wealth Advisor and Principal at Evermay Wealth Management. With more than 15 years of experience, Eric works with families, former uniformed officers, and pilots to navigate retirement and beyond. At Evermay, he and his colleagues craft personalized strategies that align wealth with life’s priorities.
Evermay Wealth Management, LLC, is a Registered Investment Adviser. Past performance is not an indication of future results. All investment strategies involve risk. The content is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered investment advice.
Schaefer,
Is the Arlington Real Estate Market Crashing?
Headlines love drama. Stories of “housing collapses” drive clicks, which in turn drive ad dollars—and sometimes, they serve as bait for agents hoping to capture anxious consumers. But in reality, especially in Arlington, things are more nuanced.
First, it matters what “collapse” is being measured against. Home prices surged during the pandemic, so even a modest pullback may look alarming compared with record highs. Context matters.
Second, real estate is inherently local. What may be a buyer’s market in Phoenix could still be a seller’s market in Arlington. Realtors generally define a balanced market as one with more than six months of inventory. Locally, inventory has risen noticeably, but remains far short of that level.
Third, Arlington is not one market, but many. Yes, condo sales have softened, but singlefamily homes and townhouses continue to
appreciate at a steady clip. Most properties still sell quickly if well-priced for what they are. These micro-markets—whether measured geographically or by housing type—tell a very different story from the “broad brush” headlines. Finally, dire assumptions about job losses forcing mass home sales often overlook basic realities. Many federal employees recently laid off don’t live in Arlington. Not everyone who loses a job needs to sell. Households with two incomes, those with significant equity or owners with a paid-off mortgage may be unaffected. Renters, of course, don’t impact home inventory at all.
In summary, the Arlington market—and the DMV more broadly—is adjusting, not collapsing. Don’t be taken in by the drama. Buyers enjoy a touch more breathing room, but well-priced, desirable homes still command strong interest. Context, micro-markets and individual circumstances matter far more than the headlines suggest.
www.JohnMentis.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
John Mentis is a trusted Realtor® in Arlington and the D.C. area. Known for intelligence and strategy, he helps clients navigate change with confidence. His promise—”Your Life is Changing. I Can Help!”®—reflects his belief that real estate is really about people’s life transitions, not just their transactions.
Awards/Honors:
- Ranked No. 7 of 1,000+ Long & Foster agents in Northern Virginia/W. Va. and No. 24 of 6,000+ companywide (2024) - Top 2% of agents in Northern Virginia, NOVA Real Producers - “Top Producer,” Arlington & Northern Virginia magazines, DC Modern Luxury, Five Star Professionals, Washingtonian, Virginia Living, Northern Virginia Association of Realtors
Need a Business Loan? Five Things Lenders Want to See.
When you apply for a business loan, your business plan is often the first—and most important—document a lender will review. It’s more than a formality: it’s your chance to show how your business operates, how it plans to grow, and most critically, how you’ll repay the loan.
A strong business plan can help you stand out. Here are five things lenders look for:
Executive Summary
A clear, compelling overview of your business: what you do, who you serve, your mission and long-term goals.
Market Analysis
Demonstrate that you understand your target market, industry trends and competition. Use data to back it up.
Financials & Use of Funds
Provide realistic financial projections (revenue, expenses and cash flow). Clearly
demonstrate how the loan will be used and how it supports your business’s growth and repayment ability.
Business Model
Explain how your business makes money— your pricing, margins and what gives you a competitive edge.
Management Team
Highlight the experience and qualifications of you and your leadership team. Lenders want to be confident that you can execute your plan.
Bottom line:
A well-developed business plan shows that you’ve thought through the key elements of running and growing your business. It’s a roadmap not just for you—but for your lender to believe in your vision. Pair it with solid financials and you’ll dramatically improve your chances of securing funding.
Kevin Sheffield, Director of Business Lending
www.ArlingtonCU.org
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Kevin Sheffield serves as director of business lending at Arlington Community Federal Credit Union and vice president of the Columbia Pike Partnership. With over a decade of banking experience, he combines technical knowledge with a commitment to helping local businesses and nonprofits thrive through tailored financial solutions.
Awards/Honors:
- Holds Credit Risk Certification (CRC) from the Risk Management Association, a distinguished credential recognizing expertise in commercial credit
- Kevin’s leadership and community engagement have been recognized through his service on boards and speaking engagements. He’s taught webinars on writing business plans, creating financial projections and understanding how lenders evaluate financing requests.
How Do You Create Veneers That Look Natural, Not Fake?
Unnatural-looking veneers are a legitimate concern, and my heart breaks when I meet people with identical and blocky veneers. True artistry is about subtlety, balance and harmony.
I begin by studying the patient’s unique facial structures, including cheekbones, lips, smile lines and how the teeth naturally show. I consider resting and full smiles, and I carefully listen to the patient’s goals. These details act as a map to ensure the veneers fit naturally and enhance the patient’s appearance.
Next, we create a diagnostic mockup so the patient can “try on” the veneers to see if the proposed result matches the desired smile. We then combine unmatched artistry and experience with advanced technology to achieve stunning, yet natural-looking results.
Veneers are not about creating a Holly -
wood smile; they’re about elevating your own. When imperfections such as chips, gaps or discoloration are corrected thoughtfully, the smile blends seamlessly with the face, often making a person look more youthful and vibrant. The best compliment? When no one knows you have veneers, they just notice you look incredible.
One of the reasons why people fly across the country for my veneers is that Siranli Dental has its own in-house, state-of-the-art laboratory. Technicians craft porcelain veneers onsite, collaborating directly with our doctors and patients to deliver the best aesthetic results. When technicians get to know patients personally and see their transformations firsthand, it adds an extra level of passion and dedication.
Siranli, DMD, PhD
SIRANLI DENTAL
Siranli Dental has convenient locations in Arlington (Advance Dental Care Center), McLean, Dupont Circle and Foggy Bottom 202-466-4530 www.siranlidental.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. Samantha Siranli is renowned for crafting stunning yet natural-looking smiles for Washington, D.C.’s elite. As a Diplomate of both the American Board of Prosthodontics and the American Board of Oral Implantology, Dr. Siranli holds the highest distinctions in the field.
Awards/Honors:
- Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
- Fellow, American College of Prosthodontists
- Diplomate, American Board of Oral Implantology
- Mark of Excellence; Medical College of Georgia, Center of Esthetic and Implant
- Dentistry
- Exceptional Service, Dedication, and Contribution; Medical College of Georgia,
- Center of Esthetic and Implant Dentistry
Samantha
Before
Ask the Experts
How Do Arlington’s Zoning Laws Impact Residential Architecture?
The Arlington County Zoning Ordinance (ACZO) regulates the size, location, and height of new homes and additions—and even whether a new house can be built at all. A “buildable” lot conforms to current ACZO minimum square footage, average width and street frontage requirements. If your lot meets the current minimums, you are able to build a new home or addition. If a lot does not meet the minimums, it is considered “non-buildable.” New homes are forbidden on non-buildable lots, but additions are permitted if they conform to the current ACZO. There is, however, one loophole: if a non-conforming lot’s deed was recorded prior to July 1950, then it is considered grandfathered and new construction is allowed.
The ACZO regulates building size via house footprint and lot coverage. The house footprint includes the house itself, roofed porches, attached garages and taller decks. Each zoning district has different maximum house footprint
ratios (percentage of the lot area). Each district also has a different maximum house footprint cap (square feet). The proposed house cannot exceed either the ratio or the cap. Lot coverage includes the house footprint plus the driveway and any accessory structures (i.e. detached garages). Each district has a maximum lot coverage ratio (percentage of the lot area). Because the County wants to promote traditional residential streetscapes, the ACZO gives bonus coverage for both the house footprint and lot coverage if homes include front porches and/ or detached garages.
The final piece of the ACZO puzzle is the 35’ height limit in residential districts. This is the measurement from average grade to roof midpoint height. Average grade is the mean elevation of the land abutting the structure. Both existing and proposed grades must be measured. The roof midpoint is measured (vertically) between the peak and soffit of the main roof.
Tripp DeFalco has been designing and building in Northern Virginia since 1993. A licensed architect, he is a member of the American Institute of Architects and is nationally certified by NCARB. Over his 30-year career he has designed more than two hundred residential projects, ranging in value from $100k to over $5 million.
Awards/Honors:
- Bachelor of Architecture, Syracuse University
- Licensed Architect, VA & NC
- NCARB Certified to practice nationally
- 25 years practicing as an Architect
- 10 years managing a Design/Build firm
- Arlington Magazine Winner, Best Architect 2022 & 2024
What’s in a Label? Why a Proper Diagnosis Matters for Children.
As both a clinician and head of school, parents often ask me about mental health assessments and diagnoses. Many are reluctant to “put a label” on their child, worried that they’ll be defined by a diagnosis and treated differently.
I like to flip that script.
I’ve found that the children struggling the most are often those without answers. When children don’t understand why being them feels so difficult, it often leads to isolation and feelings of inferiority.
A proper diagnosis doesn’t create problems; it explains them.
When we finally understand why a child’s brain works differently, everyone’s perspective shifts. The child stops wondering what’s “wrong” with them. Parents move from frustration to advocacy. And teachers can adjust expectations appropriately. Instead of assuming defiance, they are able to offer support better
suited to the child’s needs so they can become their best selves.
Take autism, for example. Many families cringe at the word, but what they’re missing is that, without a diagnosis, behaviors get misinterpreted. That brutally honest comment might be considered rude. Fleeing a noisy cafeteria? You’re not following directions.
But life doesn’t need to be this hard. With a proper diagnosis comes clarity and compassion. Suddenly, the same behaviors make perfect sense—the student might even learn they’ve had hidden superpowers all along. Now the door is open for appropriate treatment and accommodations, giving them a chance to thrive.
Sure, it’s a process and it will take time. But for a child who’s been struggling to understand themselves, a diagnosis can be life-changing, not as a limitation, but as a path toward flourishing.
Karyn Ewart, Ph.D., Founder & Head
THE SYCAMORE SCHOOL
1550 Wilson Blvd., Suite 300 Arlington, VA 22209
703-717-5360
info@thesycamoreschoolva.org
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Karyn is a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience in public and private schools. She is the founder and head of The Sycamore School, an independent nonprofit secondary school in Arlington, VA, offering personalized, experiential learning that connects academics to real life. She earned degrees in psychology from Vanderbilt and American University, as well as a doctorate from the California School of Professional Psychology. A native Arlingtonian and Leadership Arlington alum, Karyn has published, presented and led seminars on executive functioning, conflict resolution, ADHD, autism, anxiety and more. She is especially passionate about supporting students with learning differences.
Ask the Experts
Why (and How) Should You
Future-Proof Your Custom Home?
You can build the dream home you want today, and with some forethought and consideration, your home can stay modern into the future, no matter how trends and technologies change. That is future-proofing—thoughtful planning that pays dividends in the long run.
Design trends will change. Updating finishes is easy. Future-proofing means planning behind the walls so your home can adapt to the needs of the future, particularly in electrical and structural systems.
For electrical, we recommend upgrading to a 200-amp service with additional panel space, providing room for future equipment like EV chargers, solar systems or smart home technology. Pre-running conduits from the electrical panel to main areas, like the attic for solar integration or exterior lighting, creates pathways for improvements later. Simple additions, such as pull strings in conduits, make future wiring installations easier. Instead of cutting into finished walls, electricians can pull new wires through existing pathways.
For long-term comfort, design your home with aging in place in mind by incorporating choices such as main-floor owner’s suites and laundry rooms, curbless showers and reinforced framing for future grab bars in bathrooms. Features like a shaft for a future elevator—used as storage for now—can support changing mobility needs without requiring costly modifications later.
Current smart-home features, such as hardwired WiFi networks, smart thermostats and integrated lighting controls, are becoming standard. The real value lies in having the infrastructure to embrace whatever comes next. So, is future-proofing worth the investment? Absolutely, when done thoughtfully. The upfront cost of installing proper infrastructure during construction is less than the cost of retrofitting later. You gain peace of mind knowing your home can evolve with technology and your family’s needs, avoiding the disruption and expense of major work down the line. When it comes down to it, future-proofing is simply good planning.
703-791-1317
www.alairhomes.com/arlington
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Alair Homes, led by award-winning builder Chad Hackmann, brings over 20 years of expertise to Arlington, McLean, Falls Church and Washington, D.C. From custom homes to additions and renovations, Chad’s team delivers exceptional results through a transparent, client-focused process that brings each homeowner’s vision to life.
Awards/Honors
- HBAV Remodeler of the Year, 2025
- NARI Regional Remodeler of the Year, 2025
- NVBIA Great American Living Award Winner, 2024
- NVBIA Custom Builder of the Year, 2022, 2023
- NARI Regional Contractor of the Year, 2019, 2020, 2024
- NARI National Contractor of the Year, 2021
- Arlington Green Home Choice Platinum Award, 2020
What Can You Advise Those Shopping For New Home Appliances?
Appliances are not one-size-fits-all. Every appliance—even from a high-end brand—doesn’t fit every lifestyle. The internet provides access to an overwhelming amount of product information, but it can be difficult to narrow down your choices and feel confident that you have thought of everything.
I always recommend that homeowners find an appliance expert they trust, who has experience and knows what questions to ask before giving recommendations or advice. Your appliance pro should remember your name, your budget, your lifestyle and your preferences. If your sales consultant uses high-pressure sales tactics or tries to sell you appliances without first asking questions about your cooking and cleaning habits, home layout, utilities hookups or accessibility needs, run!
Appliance pros like my team here at ABW tend to ask lots of specific questions about your home, in part because we partner with
a dedicated installation team that works only with our clients. Because of this exclusive relationship, your delivery and installation are handled with the same care and attention you experience in our showrooms.
Even after careful planning, there will be times you need support or repairs in the years following your appliance purchase. This should also be a factor in your decision-making process. Ask about manufacturer warranties, extended warranty eligibility and exactly what is covered. Find out if parts and repair are available through the store where you plan to purchase, and whether they use a third party for service calls.
Choosing new appliances for your home is something you only do a handful of times in your life. Decide on your appliances early in the planning phase, before cabinets or countertops. Do your research, discuss your needs with a qualified sales consultant and don’t rush.
Ryan Simon
703-879-7966 www.abwappliances.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
CEO of ABW Appliances since 2018, Ryan Simon oversees ABW’s headquarters, logistics, service department and five appliance showrooms across the Baltimore and D.C. Metro area. With over 16 years’ experience, Ryan forges a growth path for ABW, defying post-pandemic trends for independent appliance dealers while maintaining ABW’s legacy of peoplefirst business practices.
Awards/Honors:
- Baltimore Business Journal’s Fast 50 and Middle Market Leaders awards
- Home & Design’s Reader’s Choice Award
- Modern Luxury DC’s Best of DC
- Baltimore Magazine’s Best of Baltimore
- Best of Bethesda
- Best of Arlington
- Preferred appliance partner for PRO MidAtlantic award-winning remodeling projects
Ask the Experts
What Is Involved with TMJ Disorder?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is an important part of the body, connecting the lower jaw to the skull and allowing for movements like talking, chewing and yawning. TMJ disorder, often referred to as TMD, occurs when this joint’s disc or the surrounding muscles and tissues don’t function properly. This condition can lead to discomfort or significant pain. Understanding the various causes of TMJ disorder are an important first step in managing and addressing the condition effectively. By gaining insight into what might contribute to TMJ issues, individuals can make informed choices about prevention and treatment options, ultimately promoting better oral and joint health. Treatment often requires a combination of approaches tailored to an individual’s symptoms and needs. Depending on severity, options may range from simple lifestyle adjustments and non-invasive therapies to advanced medical interventions. To alleviate discomfort and improve jaw function, the most common
non-invasive treatments include appliance therapies. The goal is to create enough room for the displaced disc to move back on top of the jawbone so the jaw can function more normally. This typically takes 12 to 18 months. Then we make a plan to keep the joints supported for the long term.
Typically, in conjunction with treatment, we offer laser and massage to help improve jaw movement, reduce pain, combat stress and relax the surrounding muscles. Massage provides relief, stimulates blood flow and releases toxins, allowing muscles to heal faster. For patients who need time before starting treatment or are in acute pain, we offer Botox injections that relax the overactive muscles and help reduce clenching.
Many patients benefit from a combination of treatments. Coordinating care with a team of professionals such as dentists, therapists and physicians can create a comprehensive plan that addresses symptoms and underlying causes.
Jeffrey L. Brown, DDS, MBA
www.sleepandtmjtherapy.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
A graduate of the Georgetown Dental School and a Fellow of the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain, Dr. Jeffrey L. Brown’s practice in Arlington became one of the largest practices of its kind ever seen on the East Coast. When Dr. Brown took a sabbatical to help raise his four young children, he continued his education, gaining an understanding of sleep apnea and how it correlates to TMJ treatment. Dr. Brown is a sought-after international speaker for TMD and sleep apnea therapies.
“Early intervention and a proactive approach are strategies that can help prevent symptoms from worsening, and will improve quality of life over time.”
How Does Independence and SelfReliance Cultivate Resilience?
Consider the way young people experience childhood today, spending most of their time supervised by parents and teachers who answer every question, smooth out every problem and carry every burden. Few are allowed to do things without an adult keeping a watchful eye. Thus, children learn that they are incapable of coping with life’s challenges and bouncing back from its setbacks by themselves. This constant supervision and intervention weakens our children and the young adults they will become.
As Jonathan Haidt, author of The Anxious Generation, asserts, “We have overprotected our children in the real world while underprotecting them online,” arguing that we must give children opportunities to engage in unsupervised play and independent action. Through those experiences, children gain resilience by encountering problems and overcoming them, doing something uncomfortable and coming out on the other side wiser and stronger.
Westminster School has always nurtured
self-reliance in its students. They are taught to be responsible for their own papers and supplies through a binder organizational method, learning that it is their responsibility–not parents’ or teachers’–to be prepared for the school day. During daily recess, the children are encouraged to navigate social relationships and solve problems with the least possible intervention from teachers. Every student acts in an annual grade-level play, performed before the full school community. This results in a strong sense of confidence.
We have enhanced our program by implementing Let Grow, a nationwide initiative developed by Haidt and Lenore Skenazy. This movement encourages independence through a monthly assignment for each child to do one new thing at home on his or her own such as playing outside with friends, cooking a meal or running an errand. Westminster students will be able to take the resilience they are building at school and exercise that courageous resolve off campus as well.
Kate Jacobson, Assistant Head of School
WESTMINSTER SCHOOL
3819 Gallows Road
Annandale, VA 22003
703-256-3620
www.westminsterschool.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Westminster School (PK–8) offers a dynamic, well-rounded curriculum designed to challenge and inspire students in an atmosphere of respect, curiosity and creativity. Blending timeless traditions with innovative teaching, Westminster emphasizes critical thinking, collaboration, communication and character.
“Our graduates are recognized for their academic excellence, strong study habits, leadership and confidence—skills that prepare them for success in an ever-changing world. For over six decades, Westminster has shaped future-ready learners with both heart and intellect.”
—Assistant Head of School Kate Jacobson
What Are the Best Places to Retire or Buy a Second Home Abroad?
If you’ve been dreaming about retiring overseas or buying a second home abroad, there are so many amazing options that make the process easier than you might think. Some countries consistently rise to the top because they offer an unbeatable mix of affordability, lifestyle and simple residency programs.
Portugal is one of my favorites. With its mild climate, friendly people, world-class healthcare and surprisingly low cost of living compared to much of Europe, it’s no wonder it’s earned a reputation as a retirement haven. The country also actively welcomes foreign residents through its retirement visa and Golden Visa programs, and English is widely spoken in expat-friendly places like the Algarve, Lisbon and Porto. On a personal level, one of my best friends moved there and she loves it.
Spain—where I grew up—offers the same charm with its Mediterranean lifestyle, delicious food, sunny weather and incredible healthcare system. From the vibrant, cosmopol-
itan vibe of Valencia to the beautiful beaches and charming towns of Alicante and Costa del Sol, retiring or buying a second home here feels like a dream come true.
For those wanting to stay closer to the U.S., Mexico is a fantastic option, offering straightforward residency programs, affordable real estate and thriving communities in spots like San Miguel de Allende, Puerto Vallarta and Mérida. And if natural beauty and a slower pace of life are what you’re after, Costa Rica and Panama deliver both, with Panama’s Pensionado visa even offering retirees discounts on everything from healthcare to entertainment.
For a dose of history and European charm, Italy and Greece are also wonderful choices, offering affordable homes in small towns and islands, incredible food and that relaxed lifestyle we all crave.
If you’re ready to explore the possibilities, let me help connect you with trusted experts worldwide.
3001 Washington Blvd., Suite 400 Arlington, VA 22201
M: 202-361-6098
O: 703-266-7277
veronica@vsghomes.com www.vsghomes.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Born in Barcelona to a real estate family, Veronica brings over 20 years of expertise to local and international property markets. A former Spanish National swimmer and Deloitte labor law consultant, her athletic discipline and legal background make her an exceptional advocate and partner for clients looking to buy or sell.
Honors/Awards:
- Top 1%, Best Real Estate Professionals, Wall Street Journal/ RealTrends (2021/2025)
- “Top 100 Agents”, Washingtonian (2022/2025)
- “Top Producer,” Arlington Magazine (2025)
- “Best of,” Washingtonian (2015-2025)
- Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist
- Certified International Property Specialist
- Senior Real Estate Specialist
- Master Negotiator
- Graduate, Realtor® Institute
Are Non-Competes Still Enforceable?
Non-compete agreements have long been used by employers to protect their business interests by restricting employees from working for competitors or starting competing businesses after leaving employment. However, the legal landscape surrounding non-competes is shifting rapidly, and employers should take note.
Traditionally, courts have enforced non-competes if they are reasonable in scope, geography and duration, and if the employer shows a legitimate business interest to protect, such as trade secrets or customer relationships. In recent years, however, lawmakers and regulators have increasingly moved to limit or even prohibit non-competes.
In 2024, the Federal Trade Commission issued a rule banning non-competes for most employees nationwide, but a federal court in Texas blocked the rule from going into effect, and the appeals process is ongoing.
Many states have enacted legislation regulating non-competes. In 2020, Virginia banned non-competes for “low wage employees” (currently defined as those earning less than
$1,463.10 per week, or $76,081 per year).
Effective July 1, 2025, non-competes in Virginia are also unlawful for any employee who is classified as non-exempt (hourly) under the federal Fair Labor Standards Act.
So, are non-competes enforceable today? The answer depends on many factors, such as where the employee works, how much they earn and how the agreement is written. Carefully drafted non-competes may still be enforceable in certain cases, but employers should not assume that their old non-compete forms remain valid.
Given the uncertainty, many businesses are turning to alternatives like non-solicitation agreements (to prevent poaching of customers and employees) and confidentiality agreements. These options are often easier to enforce and less likely to attract legal challenges. The bottom line is that non-competes are under heavy scrutiny. Employers should review their existing agreements and work with counsel to update their strategies for protecting their business in this evolving legal environment.
Maureen
E. Carr
BEAN, KINNEY & KORMAN
2311 Wilson Blvd., Suite 500 Arlington, VA 22201
703-526-5597 mcarr@beankinney.com beankinney.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Maureen E. Carr, a shareholder at Bean, Kinney & Korman, specializes in employment law and commercial litigation. Known for her legal insight and collaborative style, she represents clients in complex disputes across the DMV. Maureen grew up in Arlington where she still lives with her husband and two children.
Awards/Honors:
- Best Lawyers in America in Employment Law—Individuals, Employment Law— Management and Litigation—Labor and Employment, 2024-2026
- Virginia Lawyers Weekly, “Influential Women of Law”, class of 2023
- Arlington Magazine Top Attorney—Employment (Employee), Employment (Employer), 2019, 20212025
- Virginia Women Attorneys Association, State Board of Directors, 2018 to present
Ask the Experts
When Is the Right Time to Consider Senior Living?
Today’s senior living communities look very different from what many people imagine. They are designed for older adults who want to continue living as independently as possible, while also benefiting from extra support when needed. Still, knowing when the time is right to make the move can feel like a difficult and emotional decision.
The truth is, there isn’t one perfect moment that applies to everyone. Each family’s situation is unique, and the decision often comes after noticing gradual changes. What can help is paying attention to the signs that daily life is becoming more challenging or less fulfilling.
You may ask yourself or your loved one a few key questions:
• Is managing the house and yard starting to feel overwhelming?
• Have personal care tasks such as bathing or dressing become difficult?
• Is mobility limited, or has there been a fall?
• Is it harder to cook, eat regularly or keep track of medications?
Perhaps the most significant clues come from social and emotional well-being. Withdrawal from activities, reluctance to spend time with friends, or increased loneliness can all signal that it may be time for added support.
Senior living communities can ease these burdens in meaningful ways. By offering assistance with chores, meals and personal care, residents gain the freedom to focus on the parts of life they enjoy most. With opportunities for daily engagement, new hobbies and connection with peers, the transition often feels less like a loss and more like an opportunity for growth.
At Sunrise at Bluemont Park, personalized care plans, chef-prepared dining and vibrant programs allow residents to maintain independence while receiving the support they need. The result is peace of mind for families and a more fulfilling lifestyle for older adults.
Lucy Ballentine, Senior Director of Sales
SUNRISE AT BLUEMONT PARK AT SUNRISE SENIOR LIVING
5910 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA 22205
703-260-8774
www.sunrisebluemontpark.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
In the heart of Arlington, Sunrise at Bluemont Park offers personalized senior living in a vibrant, welcoming setting. Residents enjoy beautifully renovated spaces, chef-prepared meals and engaging programs, with easy access to Washington, D.C. Tenured team members provide tailored care for residents, including assisted living, memory care and more.
Awards/Honors:
Sunrise at Bluemont Park has been recognized as Best Memory Care as part of U.S. News & World Report’s Best Senior Living ratings for 2025. This honor reflects the community’s dedication to delivering exceptional, person-centered support for residents living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
What makes Country Club Hills and the Surrounding Area Special?
Country Club Hills, Yorktown, Rock Spring and Williamsburg are some of Arlington’s most sought-after neighborhoods—and for good reason. Buyers here are looking for more than just a house. They’re looking for a lifestyle. These neighborhoods offer tree-lined streets, tightknit communities and the kind of character you can’t recreate with new construction.
Proximity matters. Living in this pocket of North Arlington means you’re just minutes from D.C., yet you still enjoy quiet streets, spacious lots and access to some of the area’s top schools. Families love the walkability to parks, trails and local schools, while professionals value the quick commute and the sense of retreat these neighborhoods offer after a long day.
Another factor that sets these communities apart is their balance of tradition and transformation. Many homes have been beautifully renovated or rebuilt to meet today’s lifestyle needs, yet you still find architectural diversity and that sense of history that makes Arlington unique. Buyers are drawn to the warmth of community events, the convenience of local shops and restaurants, and the feeling that this is where memories are made for generations.
As someone who lives here, I understand firsthand what resonates with buyers. I know how to tell the story of these neighborhoods in a way that connects emotionally and strategically—so sellers can maximize value and buyers can confidently find their next chapter here.
Gabrielle Witkin, North Arlington Real Estate Specialist
A former tech consultant turned top-producing advisor, Gabrielle Witkin specializes in representing Arlington’s most prestigious neighborhoods, including Country Club Hills, Yorktown, Rock Spring and Williamsburg. With the largest local Instagram following of any agent, she pairs data-driven strategy with lifestyle storytelling to showcase homes to the right buyers. Follow @gabriellewitkin.
Awards/Honors:
- No. 1 Sotheby’s International Realty agent selling in Country Club Hills and surrounding neighborhoods
- Ranked in the top 1.5 percent of agents nationwide by RealTrends - Consistently recognized among Washingtonian’s Top 100 Real Estate Agents
- Named in Modern Luxury’s Top 50 Agents in the Washington Metropolitan area
Ready to Attract More Color and Song to Your Yard?
Feeding wild birds in your own backyard is incredibly rewarding. In Arlington, most yards can attract over 30 different species of birds that can all be seen by providing food, water, shelter or a place to raise their young. High-quality fresh feed that prioritizes fat and protein, in any feeder, will attract the widest variety of birds. Fresh water is essential year round and offering it will greatly increase your variety. From attracting hummingbirds, the jewels of the summer, to the beautiful winter birds, like juncos and pine siskins, your environment never stops changing. Wild Birds Unlimited’s experts can help your songbird yard evolve with the seasons. For over 34 years, Wild Birds Unlimited has been bringing people and nature together. We have provided excellent advice, science-based products and the freshest wild bird food. Every home is different, and every home can find the perfect solution. Nature constantly changes
and evolves, and Wild Birds Unlimited evolves with the customer. We do that by offering honest advice.
Slowing down life by watching the birds in your backyard has been shown to reduce stress. Every bird brings excitement and joy. There can be flocks of red cardinals in the snow, goldfinches changing to bright yellow in spring and the bold song of the Carolina Wren in the fall. Your eyes will feast on the brilliant colors of all the different species of birds you can attract to your yard.
There is no more beautiful music in your neighborhood than the sound of wild songbirds singing. Imagine being able to watch adult birds feeding their young in nests and on your tree branches. At Wild Birds Unlimited, we enjoy showing our customers how to make it happen, as much or as little as they want, in steps or all at once.
Asher Prusky
WILD BIRDS UNLIMITED
2437 N. Harrison St. Arlington, Virginia 22207
703-241-3988
wildbirdmez1969@gmail.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Asher Prusky is the general manager and new face of Wild Birds Unlimited in Arlington. His eight years of experience working in the store positions him perfectly to navigate the everchanging retail environment. Bringing people and nature together, with excellent customer service, is his motivating goal.
“Wild Birds Unlimited: We Bring People and Nature Together, and We Do It with Excellence.”
Can Psychological Testing Solve a Treatment Puzzle?
At Expand Psychology, one of our primary services is comprehensive psychological testing to help people of all ages better understand their strengths and challenges. Our evaluations address learning and developmental needs, attention and behavior, autism, and emotional well-being. When people ask why we place such a strong emphasis on testing, the answer is simple: having clarity can change lives.
Quite often I receive calls from clients who have had years of therapy, received ineffective work or school accommodations, or who have even taken medication for a diagnosis that feels unclear, incomplete or inaccurate. For some, their psychological history has many complex parts – family history, cultural background, neurobiology and more.
When someone is struggling or feels stuck in treatment, comprehensive psychological evaluation should be considered. Assessments are not just about confirming a diagnosis, they feature a wholistic deep dive that helps create a nuanced road map, enabling us to reach our destinations quickly and accurately.
Take, for example, the subtle but critical
differences between anxiety and ADHD. Both have similar symptoms, such as difficulty focusing, restlessness or underperformance in school or at work. However, treatment strategies are quite different. A thorough assessment provides the precise information needed to distinguish between the two, ensuring that therapy, educational or work accommodations, and any medications are specifically tailored to the individual.
Psychological testing is an invaluable tool when a person is not responding to their current treatment. For instance, if a child with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is not making the expected progress with a standard therapeutic approach, further testing may reveal that a co-occurring condition like ADHD, emotional regulation challenges or another form of neurodivergence is creating an obstacle. We use new insights to adjust the treatment plan.
Psychological testing guides us to the most effective therapeutic path and gives clients a clear, objective picture of themselves, their challenges and their strengths.
Dr. Katie O’Meara, Psy.D., Founder and Director
300 N. Washington St., Suite 202, Falls Church, VA 22046 1600 Duke St., Suite 350, Alexandria, VA 22314 703-618-0900 www.expandpsychologyva.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. Katie O’Meara is a licensed clinical psychologist with extensive experience across hospital, forensic and community settings. For two decades, she has led The Center for Cognitive Therapy and Assessment, and her visionary leadership has guided its growth to Expand Psychology, offering a wider range of services across the lifespan.
“For 20 years, our trusted and respected mental health practice has provided high-quality, evidence-based, integrative therapy and assessments. We specialize in psychological assessments and therapy for anxiety, OCD, ADHD, autism and complex trauma along with specialized support for parenting, co-parenting and divorce-related family challenges.”
Ask the Experts
How Are Teachers Using AI to Help Students Learn?
As a teacher, I know that “personalized learning” is a buzzword, but AI is truly making it a reality at Flint Hill School. By using a platform called SchoolAI, I provide every student with personalized learning that makes students feel as if I am right there on their device, offering tailored explanations and resources.
Our teachers can create secure learning spaces within SchoolAI. Think of it as a virtual extension of the classroom. Teachers can upload their specific notes, slides and examples for any topic, ensuring the AI is trained on their unique materials. This approach guarantees that the AI’s responses are consistent with our curriculum and instructional methods, providing a reliable resource for students. Students can access their teacher’s dedicated space and interact with the AI in a safe, private chat. They only need to use their first name or initials, so their personal information is protected.
Offering students this option is a game-
changer. If a student is confused, they can turn to AI for quick reinforcement or clarification, while teachers remain their primary guides. A history teacher might create a space where students can speak directly to a historical figure, or a math teacher can have their space generate extra practice problems. It’s a learning experience that adapts to each student’s needs.
The best part? On the back end of our program, teachers can see every question the student asks. This provides invaluable insight into each student’s learning journey, allowing teachers to follow up with individual students or adjust lessons to address common sticking points.
AI is a powerful tool that levels the playing field, ensuring every student has the resources they need to succeed and giving teachers more time to engage with students. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for AI in education.
Jennifer McKain, Technology and Instruction Department Chair
FLINT HILL SCHOOL
3320 Jermantown Road Oakton, VA 22124
703-584-2300 flinthill.org
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
For 23 years, Jennifer McKain has championed innovative, studentcentered learning at Flint Hill. With bachelor’s and master’s degrees in English from George Mason University, she serves as the school’s Technology and Instruction Department Chair and teaches English.
Award - 2025 SchoolAI Educator of the Year for Virginia
A Flint Hill Upper School student debates a SchoolAI chatbot created by science teacher Andrew Tran.
Should I Worry
About My Young Athlete and Cardiac Arrest?
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) in young athletes is rare, but it’s a topic that naturally raises questions for many parents. Fortunately, with awareness and routine care, the risks can be managed and, in most cases, prevented or identified early.
Each year, about 2,000 people under the age of 25 in the U.S. are affected by SCA. While that number includes both athletes and non-athletes, it’s important to understand that most children and teens can participate in sports safely without concern. Still, being aware of potential warning signs and family history can offer peace of mind.
Heart conditions that can lead to SCA include structural abnormalities, rhythm disorders or inflammation of the heart muscle. In rare instances, other health issues, such as dehydration, drugs or certain medications, can also play a role. That’s why it’s helpful for parents and coaches to keep an eye out for symptoms like chest pain, fainting during exercise or unexplained dizziness.
Pediatricians screen for heart-related risks during routine checkups and sports physicals. If anything concerning comes up, either in a child’s health history or a close family member’s, further evaluation with a cardiologist may be recommended. In these cases, insurance typically covers the necessary tests.
Heart screenings, like EKGs or echocardiograms, aren’t part of standard sports physicals because most young athletes don’t need them, and they can sometimes show false positives in healthy hearts. The best first step is discussing any concerns with your child’s doctor.
While sudden cardiac events in children are uncommon, they’re not exclusive to high-performance athletics. Simple, regular conversations with your child can make all the difference. Check in about how they feel during and outside of physical activity. By staying alert to unusual symptoms and working closely with your child’s healthcare team, you’re taking the most important steps to protect their heart health.
Children’s National Northern Virginia 3023 Hamaker Court Fairfax, VA 22031 571-226-8380 www.childrensnational.org
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Virginia native Elizabeth “Libby” Sherwin, MD, FHRS, is a pediatric cardiologist and electrophysiologist at Children’s National Hospital. She specializes in caring for children with heart rhythm disorders, including arrhythmias, pacemakers and defibrillators. As medical director of electrophysiology, she also leads the Cardiogenetics Inherited Arrhythmia Clinic, supporting families with inherited conditions.
Awards/Honors:
- “Top Doctor,” Northern Virginia magazine (2021-2025)
- Director of electrophysiology clinics in Fairfax and Fredericksburg
- Featured speaker at international medical conferences in Rome, Zagreb and Hong Kong
Ask the Experts
What Decisions Maximize Return When I Sell My Home?
A successful home sale requires many (good) decisions, but there are three that will create the most return.
Home Prep: The investments you make— and don’t make—when preparing your home for market have a profound impact on your net proceeds, the number that matters most. We organize prep work into tiers, maximizing the return on each recommendation and ensuring that you return more than 100% of your investment. It’s not a cookie-cutter approach. It is a customized plan tailored to your home, priorities, target buyers and budget. Our wellestablished network of contractors, built over years of working together, provides high-quality work at affordable prices. And we handle all the project management that comes with it.
Probability-Based Pricing: We utilize data more effectively than anyone to establish home pricing models that reflect how different asking prices affect the probability of various outcomes. Our two-stage pricing methodol-
ogy provides you with an early understanding of your home’s market value, followed by a second analysis that incorporates real-time competition and market conditions to determine a pricing strategy that aligns with your goals and gives you a clear understanding of expectations.
Risk-Based Negotiations: The highest sale price is not always the best contract. Contract negotiations and decision-making should factor in multiple forms of risk, including the risk of a deal falling through, the risk of terms being renegotiated and the risk of delays. There is an art to ensuring a deal reaches closing on time and with the terms you expect when you sign an offer. Our track record—over 99% of contracts settling on time—is a testament to our negotiation and contract management strategy. Getting these decisions right will determine 80-90% of the return on your sale. For more real estate insights, check out my weekly Ask Eli column on ARLnow, at www.Ask-Eli.com.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Eli Residential Group comprises professionals who believe advisors, not salespeople, should manage real estate needs. Our mission is to guide, educate and advocate for home buyers and sellers across Arlington and the surrounding DMV communities through expert advice, hands-on support and personalized service that prioritizes your interests.
Awards/Honors:
- Only individual agent to handle 10+ seller and 10+ buyer transactions in Arlington in 2024
- Annual recipient of Arlington Magazine’s “Top Producer” Award
- Annual recipient of Washingtonian’s “Best of” Award
- Weekly real estate column is ARLnow’s longest-running column (since 2015)
- Author of 500+ local real estate articles/data analysis
What Should an ADHD Evaluation for My Child/Teen Entail?
With growing concerns about ADHD overdiagnosis—particularly among children and adolescents with milder symptoms—families deserve to know their child is receiving a comprehensive assessment and accurate diagnosis. A rushed or incomplete evaluation can lead to the unnecessary prescription of stimulant medication, while missing the real issues affecting your child’s wellbeing and potential.
Over my 20 years in practice, I’ve learned that truly understanding a child’s challenges requires looking at the whole picture. That’s why my evaluations go far beyond simple checklists. I spend time getting to know your child and your family through in-depth interviews, a detailed developmental history and thorough testing of cognitive abilities, executive functioning and emotional and behavioral patterns.
I don’t just ask, “Is it ADHD?” I ask, “What’s
really going on, and how can we best support your child?”
Sometimes ADHD is indeed the answer. Other times, we discover anxiety, learning differences, trauma responses or other factors that require different interventions. My goal is to give you clarity, not just a label. And my commitment doesn’t end with test results. I help families find and navigate resources that best meet their child’s needs, and I consult with schools and collaborate with physicians and other healthcare providers to ensure recommendations are applied effectively. Every child is unique. They deserve an approach that honors their strengths and truly understands their struggles. If you’re looking for clear answers and compassionate guidance, I’m here to help. Let’s create a personalized roadmap that supports your child’s growth and well-being.
Carla M. Shuman, PhD
MINDFUL SOLUTIONS, LLC
2000 14th St. N. Arlington, VA 22201
703-527-1200
www.drcarlamessenger.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. Carla Shuman is a licensed clinical psychologist in Arlington, VA, with 20 years of experience. She specializes in treating anxiety disorders, OCD and ADHD, as well as supporting patients with chronic medical illnesses. She also provides comprehensive neuropsychological assessments for children, teens and adults.
Dr. Shuman is a member of the Virginia Academy of Clinical Psychologists and the membership chair of the Northern Virginia Clinical Psychologists. She has taught as an adjunct clinical assistant professor in the Department of Psychology at The George Washington University, and she remains dedicated to shaping the next generation of mental health professionals.
Ask the Experts
What Flowers Do You Recommend for Holiday Parties?
The holiday season is a wonderful opportunity to elevate your home with thoughtful floral design. It’s a time when we take extra care in creating a warm, inviting atmosphere—so why not make it truly memorable?
I always suggest beginning with a striking entryway arrangement. This is your guests’ first impression and sets the tone for the entire evening. I lean into seasonal elements that evoke both festivity and vitality. Fragrant evergreens, glossy magnolia leaves, textured pinecones and clusters of berries bring the freshness and scent of the outdoors inside. To add drama and elegance, I incorporate bold amaryllis blooms—especially in classic red or white—which instantly brighten the space. Candlelight is the perfect finishing touch, cast-
ing a warm glow that enhances the ambiance. From there, I like to echo the theme throughout the home with smaller arrangements placed on cocktail tables, mantels and sideboards. These need not be elaborate; continuity is key. White roses, paperwhites or tulips paired with bits of evergreen or moss offer a simple yet striking effect. Sweet peas or white French tulips bring a refreshing softness to winter interiors. Importantly, I encourage people to move beyond rigid design rules. You don’t need perfect symmetry or a specific number of stems. A thoughtful grouping—whether four orchids or a mix of branches and berries—can be just as beautiful. Flowers should evoke joy, fragrance and a sense of celebration, much like the season itself.
May Bernhardt
MAYFLOWERS FLORAL STUDIOS
1363 Chain Bridge Road McLean, VA 22101
703-734-1500 11959 Market St. Reston, VA 20190
703-709-1200
www.mayflowersonline.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
May Bernhardt, founder of Mayflowers, has spent over 36 years creating bespoke floral designs that celebrate life’s milestones. From weddings and corporate events to prêtà-porter arrangements at her Reston Town Center and McLean studios, each bouquet is handcrafted with couture flowers from around the world. Featured on NBC4 and honored with the Best of Reston award, May’s holistic approach blends artistry and emotion to capture the beauty of every occasion. She and her team are passionate about using flowers to honor, celebrate and give back to the community.
What Do I Do if My Child Is Struggling To Read?
If your child is struggling to read, you’re not alone. Only about 35 percent of students in the U.S. read proficiently. Reading isn’t a natural process—it requires three regions of the brain to work together to recognize letters, connect them to sounds and blend those sounds into words. To master this, students need explicit, systematic instruction in letters and sounds. For children with challenges like dyslexia, even more direct instruction is required. This evidence-based method, called Structured Literacy, is essential. In fact, about half of all children need structured literacy instruction to become proficient readers, yet many schools still don’t provide it. Reading aloud to your child is valuable and fosters curiosity and a love of books, but learning to read takes daily practice and feedback. Set aside 10–15 minutes for your child to read to you. Use that time to review letter sounds,
break words into syllables, or play games with words and sentences. Read aloud together from decodable books or early readers, focusing on sounding out words rather than guessing from pictures or memorization.
If your child is struggling, act quickly. Early intervention matters: it’s four times harder to help a struggling fourth grader reach grade level than a kindergartener. Without support, struggling readers fall further behind each year.
The good news? With structured literacy, 95 percent of students can learn to read proficiently. If your child isn’t receiving this instruction in school, you may need outside support. Ask schools about their reading programs and test scores, or consider a tutor who uses structured literacy methods. Most importantly, know this: it’s never too late to get your child on the path to reading success.
Barry Davis
McLEAN SCHOOL
8224 Lochinver Lane Potomac, MD 20854
240.395.0698
bdavis@mcleanschool.org mcleanschool.org
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Barry Davis is Head of School at McLean School, a K-12 independent school in Potomac, Maryland, serving bright students, including those with dyslexia, ADHD, and executive functioning challenges. Since 1954, McLean has helped students realize their full potential with a comprehensive collegepreparatory curriculum that is traditional without being rigid, challenging without being intimidating, and designed with the real world in mind. A full-scope offering of athletics, performing and visual arts, rounds out the McLean program.
How Is AI Creating Careers While Changing Existing Jobs?
Artificial intelligence is already profoundly reshaping the workforce. Its influence extends far beyond the tech sector, reaching into government services, science, engineering, retail and more. The White House has even issued a national AI Action Plan to ensure the U.S. remains the global leader in accelerating AI innovation by enhancing the country’s AI infrastructure and exporting its technology to allies and partners worldwide.
Much of the current conversation centers on AI’s negative impacts, particularly workforce reductions. For instance, some companies (that mainly offer AI products themselves) project a 20 percent decrease in software development roles. Yet AI-generated code is often incomplete or inaccurate, which means human oversight will remain critical. Roles may evolve, but skilled software developers will continue to be in demand to ensure applications are functional, effective and secure.
At the same time, AI is opening up exciting
new career paths. Specialists are developing new machine learning models and applications in fields such as computer vision and natural language processing. But success in the AI era will depend on more than technical expertise. Workers across industries will be expected to use AI tools to boost efficiency, enhance customer service and strengthen national security.
The greatest workforce shifts are expected at the entry level, where automation—such as through AI-powered chatbots—can replace routine tasks. However, new opportunities are emerging for employees who can test applications, improve workflows and train others to adopt AI effectively. The key will be widespread training and education. To thrive in an AI-driven economy, workers at all levels must understand how AI can be applied to their specific fields.
In short, AI is not simply replacing jobs but transforming them while creating entirely new career trajectories.
Diane Murphy, Ph.D., Distinguished Professor
MARYMOUNT UNIVERSITY
2807 N. Glebe Road Arlington, VA
703-522-5600
www.marymount.edu
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. Diane Murphy is a Distinguished Professor at Marymount University and Director of the Institution’s Center for the Innovative Workforce. Her extensive background in artificial intelligence research began with expert systems in the 1980s and continues to the present day. She has taught emerging technologies, including cybersecurity and AI, for the last 25 years.
Awards/Honors
- 2021 Marymount University Halo Award for Distinguished Faculty Member of the Year
- 2020 Commonwealth of Virginia Outstanding Faculty Award
- Principal Investigator on several cybersecurity and AI research projects, with grant funding from the National Science Foundation and other agencies
How Can First-Time Buyers Navigate Today’s Housing Market?
Navigating today’s housing market can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time buyers. With inflation, shifting job dynamics and fluctuating interest rates, the path to homeownership is more complex than it was for previous generations. Reliable information is often scattered, making it difficult to know where to begin. The key is preparation: start with a clear understanding of your finances and partner with experts who can guide you through the process.
Before diving into home listings, take time to assess your financial readiness. This means building a budget that not only accounts for the purchase price but also ongoing costs, like maintenance, insurance and unexpected repairs. Make sure you have an emergency fund and understand how your current debts and monthly expenses impact your ability to take on a mortgage. Once you have a clear picture, you can begin shaping a plan that brings your homeownership goals within reach.
Working with a trusted financial institution like State Department Federal Credit Union (SDFCU) can make a significant difference. As a not-for-profit lender, SDFCU offers tailored support for first-time buyers, including access to special financing programs, down payment assistance and competitive mortgage rates. For Americans living abroad, SDFCU provides unique solutions that allow you to finance a primary residence in the U.S. while residing overseas.
Buying your first home doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. With thoughtful planning and the right guidance, you’ll be better equipped to make confident decisions and take meaningful steps toward owning a home. Visit SDFCU.org/mortgages to learn more about the options available to you.
State Department Federal Credit Union is federally insured by the NCUA and is an Equal Housing Lender.
Patrick Ignacio, MA, CCUE, Director of Mortgage Operations
STATE DEPARTMENT
FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
1630 King St. Alexandria, VA 22314 pignacio@sdfcu.org SDFCU.org
ABOUT
THE AUTHOR
Patrick Ignacio specializes in innovative home financing solutions for members worldwide and modernizing the homebuying experience. He brings over 26 years of experience in mortgage lending and has spent more than half of his career honing his skills in not-for-profit credit union mortgage management.
Awards/Honors:
- 2017 & 2018 Chair & Vice-Chair, Bay East Association of Realtors
- 2018 Affiliate Partner of the Year, Bay East Association
- 2019 – Board Member/ Trustee, Bay East Foundation
- 2022-2024 America’s Credit Unions Graduate, CU Management School, Certified Credit Union Executive
How Can You Turn Career-Change Uncertainty into Opportunity?
Career transitions can evoke a range of emotions, from nervousness to excitement. And they only intensify when combined with other life changes, like sending children off to college or caring for aging parents. Managing multiple transitions simultaneously can feel overwhelming—which is where a career coach can be invaluable.
Coaching is a collaborative process that helps you think differently, explore new possibilities and get the most out of your life and career. A coach asks thoughtful questions and creates a safe space to reflect, experiment and chart your next steps. When approached intentionally, coaching can help you develop a clear action plan and leave you feeling energized and optimistic about the future.
A simple way to begin is by asking yourself these key questions:
• What skills do I want to develop for my next role?
• What am I looking for in a role that I don’t currently have?
• When have I felt most energized at work, paid or unpaid?
• What aspects of a current or past job did I dislike, and why?
• If I could design a dream job, what would it look like?
• What are my strengths? What am I the go-to person for?
People pursue career changes for many reasons. If you’ve felt stagnant, disengaged or devalued in your current role, or realize something else might align better with your personal values, you could benefit from working with a career coach. Coaching can also help you navigate a new position that requires additional skill development. We spend a significant portion of our adult lives working. Finding a role that truly fits can be life-changing. Engaged employees experience higher job satisfaction, lower turnover and a stronger sense of purpose. With the right support and self-reflection, career uncertainty can actually become your greatest opportunity for growth.
Elizabeth Deegan, Founder
EMD COACHING & CONSULTING, LLC
703-217-5866
www.emd-coaching.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Elizabeth Deegan is an International Coaching Federation-certified career coach who is passionate about empowering individuals to discover and utilize their innate strengths, allowing them to thrive at work and in life. She brings a collaborative approach and 25 years of experience leading high-performing teams at Pfizer Inc., a Fortune 100 company.
Awards/Honors:
- Arlington Magazine Top Vote Getter, Best Career Coach 2025
- Certified Working Genius Workshop Facilitator
- Transitions Quotient Certified Coach
What’s Really Happening in Arlington’s Real Estate Market?
Arlington’s real estate market is active, but the key to success right now is realistic pricing and expectations.
On the rental side, things are finally picking up after a slower stretch. Rents are rising and, with new apartment communities under construction, tenants will soon have more options. While that’s great news for renters, it also means landlords will need to be mindful of both price and property condition to stay competitive.
When it comes to home sales, overpricing is the biggest stumbling block. Buyers here make decisions quickly. If they don’t see value, they move on—and price reductions later rarely win them back. Those cuts often just highlight that the home was overpriced to begin with. The reality is that the market, not the seller, sets the property’s value and price.
One concerning trend worth noting is the rise in canceled contracts. More properties are going under contract, then reverting to active
status. Sometimes it’s just buyer hesitation, sometimes there are inspection issues (these are not problems that will go away with the next offer) and sometimes it’s simply that a more desirable property has come along.
Emotions are running high in today’s market. Uncertainty can lead to unexpected reactions. In one case, a buyer asked to delay closing after a dip in their retirement account. On another occasion, a buyer backed out entirely after second-guessing their choice. These moments underscore how personal the process can feel. That’s why expert guidance is more important than ever—to help clients stay grounded, informed, and focused on their long-term goals.
The bottom line is that Arlington’s market offers plenty of opportunity, and it rewards those who stay realistic. With clear expectations and trusted, expert guidance, buyers and sellers alike can achieve their goals.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Carol Temple, a topproducing Arlington Realtor® since 1972, delivers expert guidance and smooth transactions. Known for her integrity, deep local knowledge, and strong agent relationships, she consistently achieves exceptional results. Carol personally supports clients with trusted resources and award-winning service—no team, just hands-on experience you can count on.
Awards/Honors
- NVAR Top Producer— Lifetime Diamond Award
- Certified Residential Specialist (CRS)— earned by only 3% of agents through advanced training and exceptional sales performance
- Coldwell Banker International President’s Circle
- RealTrends, America’s Best
- Washingtonian/Northern Virginia Magazine, Top Agent
- Virginia Top Real Estate All-Stars
- Expertise.com, Best Arlington Real Estate Agents
Ask the Experts
How Has Breast Construction Surgery Improved Recently?
The ultimate goal in breast reconstruction is to create results that look, feel and function as naturally as possible. This means striving to achieve a similar breast shape, your desired size, authentic texture and optimal symmetry between both breasts.
Today’s most innovative approach uses your own abdominal tissue to rebuild the breast(s). We remove fat and skin from your stomach area, similar to a tummy tuck, and use microsurgery to transfer it to your chest. Abdominal fat has a similar consistency to breast tissue, so the result feels remarkably natural—and as a bonus, you’re left with an improved abdominal contour. This is called a DIEP flap.
Perhaps the most groundbreaking develop-
ment is nerve restoration. Using sophisticated microsurgical techniques, we can now reconnect nerves from your chest to the reconstructed breast tissue, partially restoring sensation, making your reconstruction feel more natural. In many cases, we’re now even able to partially restore sensation to the nipple area.
The best reconstructive surgeons combine such advanced surgical techniques with an artistic understanding of breast aesthetics, developed through specialized training and experience. It’s also vital that we truly listen to each patient’s needs and goals and set realistic expectations together.
With today’s advances in breast reconstruction surgery, we can help patients feel truly whole again, rather than simply restored.
Paulo Piccolo, MD, FACS
NATIONAL CENTER FOR PLASTIC SURGERY
7601 Lewinsville Road, Suite 400 McLean, VA 22102
703-287-8277
WhatsApp: 571-419-7716
drpiccolo@nationalpsurg.com www.piccolomd.com www.nationalcenterforplasticsurgery. com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. Piccolo is an internationally recognized, board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon dedicated to providing highly personalized, compassionate care tailored to each patient’s individual goals. Named a “Top Doctor” by Arlington Magazine in 2025, he completed his integrated plastic surgery residency at the prestigious Mount Sinai in New York City, followed by a microsurgery fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania. At the National Center for Plastic Surgery, he specializes in advanced breast reconstruction alongside the center’s other leading experts. Born in Brazil, Dr. Piccolo is a champion of cultural diversity and is fluent in Portuguese, Spanish, Italian and French.
If the Roth Is So Magical, Why Doesn’t Everybody Have One?
A Roth 401(k) is an employer-sponsored retirement account that allows you to contribute after-tax dollars and enjoy tax-free withdrawals in retirement. While 93% of 401(k) plans offer a Roth 401(k) option, only around 16.2% of eligible participants choose to contribute, according to Fidelity. Yet almost everyone who qualifies should consider a Roth. While some may think their income is too high to qualify, that’s only true for regular Roth IRAs. There are no income limits for Roth 401(k), 403(b), TSP, etc. established through an employer. High-income earners can still get a Roth via Roth conversions, which are ideal in low-income years. We can help calculate if a partial conversion makes sense.
There are several key differences between traditional IRAs and a Roth. While contributions to traditional IRAs are made pre-tax, Roth IRA contributions are after-tax. Conversely, withdrawals from traditional IRAs are taxable, while Roth withdrawals are not. Traditional IRAs require distributions beginning at age 73, while there are no required distributions from a Roth
IRA during the investor’s lifetime. And unlike traditional IRAs, Roths offer a high level of taxplanning flexibility.
There are numerous reasons why Roth IRAs are perfect for young professionals, including paying taxes at a lower rate, and taking advantage of compound interest and decades of tax-free growth. Roth IRA conversions also offer advantages to seniors, such as avoiding required taxable distributions at age 73 and reducing overall tax burdens.
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act has implications for investors. While the act does not make any changes to IRAs or Roths, the expansion of the state and local tax (SALT) deductions could potentially lead to more Roth conversions. For those who itemize, the SALT deduction is increased to $40,000, effective for 2025 through 2029, with a 1% increase each year. In addition, some pass-through business owners can work around the $40,000 limitation and get unlimited SALT deductions. Please consult your tax professional.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
As founder and CIO of Campus Private Wealth, Bill Milby brings nearly four decades of experience, built from the ground up, to every client conversation. Known for his no-nonsense approach (“no robo portfolios, no cookie-cutter financial plans”), he’s earned a reputation for clear, personal and strategic financial guidance.
Awards/Honors: - Arlington Magazine “Face of Investment Management” 2025
IN SEARCH OF THE PERFECT BURGER
BY STEPHANIE KANOWITZ
There are cravings that only a juicy burger can satisfy, and some consider it the ultimate comfort food. Whether you want to double down with a bacon-and-beef combo slathered in sauce, or go lighter with a veggie patty topped with, well, more veggies, you’ve got options. Here are 16 of our favorite places to indulge.
A smashburger with beef fat fries at B Side
■ the perfect burger
B Side
When the restaurant concept comes by way of a master butcher, you can expect a righteous burger. No surprise— the smashburger (pictured on p. 95) is one of the most popular menu items at this Mosaic District haunt by chef/ butcher Nathan Anda. Served with beef fat fries, it piles two beef patties, American cheese, lettuce, red onion, island sauce and house pickles on a challah bun. Extra famished? Gild the lily by adding a third patty. During weekday happy hours, get three sliders for $15 or six for $25. bsidecuts.com
Ballston Local
The beefy lineup at this beloved pub in the heart of Ballston includes the Bluemont, with caramelized onions, gorgonzola, arugula, bacon and L-sauce (ketchup, mayo, Dijon mustard and pickle juice). Each burger order comes with waffle or skinny fries, chips or a Caesar salad. Sub an Impossible patty and/or a gluten-free bun for a modest upcharge. Weekday happy hours from 3-6 p.m. include a burger-and-a-beer deal for $14. ballstonlocal.com
Café Colline and Bar Colline
One bite of chef Brendan L’Etoile’s double-patty bistro burger—a special blend of double ground chuck, brisket and short rib—and you’ll be hooked. Topped with Boston lettuce, American cheese, house-made tarragon pickles and club sauce (spoiler: the secret ingredient is kimchi), it’s a glorious mess on an Uptown Bakers potato bun that comes with the requisite frites on the side. Find it on the menu at Café Colline in the Lee Heights Shops and at sister restaurant Bar Colline in National Landing. cafecollineva.com
Cowboy Cafe
Stop by this neighborhood bar on Langston Boulevard and order yourself a LoJo with blue cheese, grilled onions and hot sauce, or the carb-free Naked Burger, a plain patty—hold the bun—served with a side salad. Turkey and veggie burgers are alt options, and sweet potato fries are an addictive side. thecowboycafe.com
The bistro burger at Café Colline and Bar Colline
The Bluemont burger at Ballston Local
Big Buns Damn Good Burgers
Feeling fancy? The “designer” creations at this local chainlet include the Hot & Hefe (Angus beef with pepper jack cheese, avocado, grilled habanero and serrano pico de gallo) and the Peppercorn Steakhouse (Angus beef with gruyère, onion straws, sautéed mushrooms, lettuce, tomato and tellicherry mayo). Feeling extra naughty? They’ve got shakes, too—with the option of making them boozy. eatbigbuns.com
Mammoth appetite? Try the limited-time, 14-oz. Redonculous Burger at Big Buns through Oct. 31.
Bubbie’s Plant Burgers
You needn’t be a carnivore to enjoy a good burger. This kiosk at National Landing’s Water Park serves only plant-based eats, including an avocado pepper jack burger made with a 5-oz. Redefine patty. Alternately, design your own with toppers ranging from vegan bacon to grilled pineapple. Tack on an order of fries, pistachio-pesto macaroni salad or watermelon gazpacho. bubbiesburgers.com
Sloppy Mama’s Barbeque
Not in the mood for ribs or pulled pork? The 100% prime brisket burgers at Joe and Mandy Neuman’s ’cue joint on Langston Boulevard are just as hearty. We’re talking 4-ounce patties (single or double) topped with American cheese, grilled onions, special sauce (featuring the eatery’s signature Happy Sprinkles BBQ rub) and pickles on a toasted potato roll. Make it a meal by adding a soft drink and a side such as house-made hot sweet pickles, coleslaw or baked beans. On Wednesdays, get a single cheeseburger with fries for $10 when you dine in. sloppymamas.com
Go meatless at Bubbie’s Plant Burgers
Sloppy Mama’s
Jon’s Joint
Two burger-loving buddies opened this Buckingham storefront one year ago and people lined up. Our food critic fell for the OKC—an homage to the Oklahoma City specialty that finds a double smashie on a toasted potato bun with onions and melted American cheese. Also noteworthy: the Juicy Lucy stuffed with cheddar and topped with grilled onions. Round out the decadence with house-made ice cream or a Kit Kat milkshake. jonsjoint.us
Burger District
This Courthouse emporium serves the all-American handheld in many forms, including smashburgers, Angus beef patties, sliders, turkey burgers and vegan Beyond Burgers. The District Shrooms Burger is piled with smoky Virginia ham, grilled mushrooms and Swiss, while a messy and delicious chili cheeseburger is slathered in housemade chili and cheese sauce. Appetizers such as pork tips or spicy cauliflower can also be ordered as burger garnishes. burgerdistrict.us
Five Guys
Five Guys has been keeping it simple ever since the first storefront opened in 1986 on Columbia Pike. Now a national chain, its menu centers on hamburgers, cheeseburgers and bacon cheeseburgers served with boardwalk-style fries. Go for a single (a Little, as they call it) or a double patty, and add embellishments like grilled onions or shrooms and jalapeños. fiveguys.com
Burger Billy’s Joint
The self-described “Home of the Cherrydale Brisket Burger” (yup, it’s in Cherrydale) serves smashburgers made with grass-fed, locally sourced Angus beef from Front Royal’s Cottonwood Ranch. The signature sandwich is a 4-ounce patty topped with brisket, grilled onions, smoked gouda and candied rosemary bacon, all drizzled in a honey-bourbon barbecue sauce. Place an order online or onsite at a kiosk, then make your way to a locker, enter the code on your receipt and get your grub. burgerbillysjoint.com
The Cherrydale Brisket Burger at Burger Billy’s Joint
Jon’s Joint
Ghostburger
This D.C.-born concept that began in a Shaw ghost kitchen (hence the name) has an outpost at Rosslyn’s Upside on Moore food hall. Design your own masterpiece or go for the namesake Ghostburger with American cheese, pickles, onions and jalapenoinfused spooky sauce. Or try the Charlie, topped with pimento cheese, fried pickles, red onions, micro broccoli greens and jalapeño mayo. Swap the beef for falafel or turkey if you prefer. ghostburgerdc.com
Lyon Hall
The brasserie menu at this Clarendon hot spot includes Alsatian favs like hanger steak tartare and pots of mussels, but the namesake burger will surely tantalize those taste buds. It’s made with houseground beef and topped with lettuce, tomato confit, red onion, pickles and your choice of cheeses, including Roquefort. Add bacon or a fried egg for extra protein and pizzazz. lyonhallarlington.com
Best Buns
Bakery & Burgers
Want to build your own bliss? Start with an Angus beef patty or two, and choose toppings such as hickory barbecue sauce, bacon, mushrooms and cheese. Pair it with fries, pasta salad or a fruit cup, and cap it all off with a fresh-baked cookie or cupcake. Part of the Great American Restaurants Group, this DMV eatery has locations in Shirlington and Tysons. bestbunsbakeryandburgers.com
Basic Burger
Don’t let the name fool you. This burger joint with takeouts in Westpost and Tysons serves more than a mere patty on a bun. In addition to its namesake basic burger (100% Angus beef with lettuce, tomato and onion on brioche), the choices include a big double cheeseburger, BBQ bacon cheeseburger and several other riffs on the classic, including veggie, turkey and plant-based renditions. Pair your pick with a side of beer-battered fried pickles or sweet potato fries. basicburger.com
The Barbie Girl (with provolone, pickled jalapeño, red onion, cabbage, chipotle mayo and arugula) and other sandos at Ghostburger
Elevation Burger
This locally grown fast-food chain (the first one opened in Falls Church in 2005) serves organic, grass-fed beef and fries cooked in olive oil. Build your own burger with one or two beef, Impossible, vegan or veggie patties. Or choose from a lineup of gourmet creations, such as a double guacamole burger with Swiss cheese and ranch dressing. Eating low-carb? Ask for the Paleo Burger, which is wrapped in lettuce in lieu of a bun. elevationburger.com ■
TOP ATTORNEYS
Our area’s most respected attorneys as nominated by their peers in the legal community
This feature reflects the results of a survey conducted by Arlington Magazine in which local attorneys were asked to nominate their peers in 21 practice areas. Participants were allowed to recommend attorneys in their own firms, provided they also recommended an equal number of attorneys (or more) in other firms. The list is limited to attorneys who are located in Arlington County, Fairfax County, the City of Falls Church and the City of Alexandria. Arlington Magazine administered the survey.
APPELLATE
Chandra Sheppard
Eris Law Group
Colleen Haddow
Schinstock & Haddow
David Ginsberg
Cooper Ginsberg Gray
Jim Hundley
Briglia Hundley
John Cottrell
Cottrell Fletcher & Cottrell
Juli Porto
Blankingship & Keith
Kristen Kugel
Cooper Ginsberg Gray
Matt Kaplan
The Kaplan Law Firm
Meg Marks
Odin, Feldman & Pittleman
Monica Monday
Gentry Locke
Raighne Delaney
Bean, Kinney & Korman
BANKRUPTCY & CREDITORS RIGHTS
Andrea Campbell Davison
Bean, Kinney & Korman
Bandar Al-Saif
Odin, Feldman & Pittleman
Brian Lee Lee Legal
Jeremy Root
Blankingship & Keith
Robert Marino
Redmon, Peyton & Braswell
Stephen Leach Hirschler
Steven Ramsdell
Tyler, Bartl & Ramsdell
Xue Connelly
Friedman, Grimes, Meinken & Leischner
BUSINESS & CORPORATE
Colin Smith
Holland & Knight
Connie Phelps
Berenzweig Leonard
Eric Lemmer
Arlington Law Group
George Doumar
Doumar Martin
Jeffrey Rhodes
McInroy, Rigby & Rhodes
Jennifer Schiffer
Bean, Kinney & Korman
John Cook
Cook Legal Solutions
Martin Yeager
Friedman, Grimes, Meinken & Leischner
Mashal Shah
Odin, Feldman & Pittleman
Michael Kim
Blankingship & Keith
Scott Taylor
Ruttenberg Dickerson
Tammy Hui
The Geller Law Group
Tiffany Burton
Rees Broome
Zack Andrews
Bean, Kinney & Korman
CONSTRUCTION
Alison Mullins
Cipriani & Werner
David Gutkwoski
Odin, Feldman & Pittleman
Edward Cameron
Cameron McEvoy
John Altmiller
Altmiller Melnick DeMers
Steele & Rosati
Juanita Ferguson
Bean, Kinney & Korman
SKIP BROWN
From left: Jeffrey Rhodes (McInroy, Rigby & Rhodes); Nindiya Ramchandani (Stein Sperling); Linh Ly (Office of Linh H. Ly)
A: Walsh Colucci has been a trusted partner in Northern Virginia for more than 40 years. Our attorneys focus on the region’s unique land use, zoning, real estate, litigation, and estate planning needs, which means we understand the local laws, processes and players better than anyone else. With offices in Arlington, Prince William, Loudoun and Winchester, we combine regional reach with strong community relationships. What truly sets us apart is that we see ourselves not just as lawyers, but as problem-solvers, working side by side with clients to help them move projects forward, resolve disputes and protect what matters most.
Q: How would your clients describe the firm?
A: Clients often tell us that we are practical, responsive and deeply invested in their success. They know we are available when they need us and that we provide answers rooted in experience, not just theory. Our clients value that we translate complex legal challenges into clear, actionable strategies. Many describe us as trusted advisors who genuinely care about both the outcome and the relationship. For us, that kind of trust is the highest compliment.
Q: What brings you the most satisfaction in your work?
A: Our satisfaction comes from seeing the direct impact of our work on people and communities. Whether it is helping a business bring a new project to life, guiding a family through estate planning or resolving a dispute that has weighed heavily on a client, we take pride in knowing that our efforts make a real difference.
Mullett Dove & Bradley Family Law, PLLC
Honors/Awards:
Washingtonian Top Lawyers, 2018-2025
Best Law Firms™ 2015-2026
Best Lawyers™ 2013-2026
Best Lawyers™ 2022 Lawyer of the Year— Family Law
Best Lawyers™ 2026, 2024 and 2021 Lawyer of the Year—Collaborative Law
Super Lawyers™ 2013-2025
Three Ballston Plaza
1100 N. Glebe Road, Suite 1100, Arlington, VA 22201
A: The number one complaint we hear from clients who come to us after working with other firms is that their calls and emails were rarely returned, which left them feeling as if they didn’t know what was happening in their own case. We make client communication a priority, ensuring our clients are involved in developing a strategy for reaching the best resolution possible for their unique circumstance.
Q: What do your clients say about you?
“A class act. Competent, smart and tough when needed—yet unfailingly respectful and professional to everyone involved.”
“Took the time to listen to my concerns. I was never treated like a number or a customer.”
“Top-notch representation. Stuck to the relevant points, worked for a quick
resolution and kept me abreast of every step as we reached a favorable conclusion.”
“I have recommended MDB to my friends, which I think is the litmus test of their competency.”
“Kind, professional, knowledgeable, attention to detail.”
“Incredibly responsive, offered excellent advice and was an exceptional listener.”
“Available on short notice, provided intelligent analysis/advice along the way.”
“Prompt responses to my emails and phone calls.”
“Always punctual when something needed to be addressed.”
“Honest and answered my questions based on the law and her experience, not just with an answer I wanted to hear.”
“Superb work ethic and extensive knowledge of the law.”
Arlington Law Group
Arlington Magazine Top Attorney Awards:
Ryan A. Brown, Esq.: Business/Corporate (2019, 2021-2023), Nonprofit (2019, 2021), Tax (2019, 2023), Trusts & Estates (2019, 2021-2025)
Eric M. Lemmer, Esq.: Business/Corporate (2019, 2023, 2025)
Bridget A. Alzheimer, Esq.: Trusts & Estates (2019); Tax (2023)
James F. Anderson, Esq.: Trusts & Estates (2019, 2024, 2025)
A: Arlington is full of individuals who work tirelessly to help our community thrive. As lawyers, we work directly with local organizations, and we help our individual, business and non-profit clients as they support our community.
When we prepare and carry out estate plans for clients, one of the most rewarding jobs is helping our clients with charitable legacy planning. It is amazing to see how many individuals volunteer their time to support our local nonprofits, and often leave substantial gifts to organizations, such as the Arlington Community Foundation, to continue to support Arlington for years to come.
We also enjoy helping our small business clients succeed. The many locally and family-owned businesses in Arlington
create jobs and places for our community to connect. They make Arlington a special place to live and work. In addition to volunteering our time at local organizations like the Arlington Chamber of Commerce, the Salvation Army and Mount Olivet United Methodist Church, our firm provides pro bono legal services to several local non-profits.
Q: What makes the Arlington Law Group team special?
A: After starting as a solo law practice in 2007, we have grown to four attorneys and two paralegals. Each new member of the firm has brought their own expertise, but we are all committed to taking care of our clients and each other. We have been lucky to build a supportive, collaborative environment for our staff, which is reflected in how we help our clients each day.
(From left)
Eric M. Lemmer, Esq.
Ryan A. Brown, Esq.
Bridget A. Alzheimer, Esq.
James F. Anderson, Esq.
Sher, Cummings & Ellis
Virginia Lawyers Weekly “Hall of Fame” 2023 “Preeminent” rating by Martindale-Hubbell
Super Lawyers since 2007
Arlington Magazine Top Attorney, 2019, 2022-25
Arlington Magazine Winner, Best Personal Injury Law Firm 2023-25
AVVO Rating: 10
Lawyers of Distinction: Excellence in Civil and Criminal Trials in Federal and State Courts (2023, 2024)
Outstanding Foundation Partner Award to Vicky Collins Foundation, David Sher and Mark Cummings, trustees
3800 Fairfax Drive, Suite 7, Arlington, VA 22203 703-525-1200 www.shercummingsandellis.com
Q: What’s an example of something in your professional life that you’re particularly proud of?
A: We don’t just handle cases, we fight battles. We are relentlessly committed to getting just results for real people who have had their lives turned upside down and need a fighter in their corner. Though we are primarily known for personal injury, we have taken on some of the toughest cases involving human rights violations and catastrophic injuries. In the 1990’s, we represented an American Holocaust survivor against the Federal Republic of Germany. This case was monumental in weakening foreign sovereign immunity in cases of torture, genocide and abhorrent human rights violations.
Another challenging case we had involved a 33-year-old Senate aide who suffered a debilitating stroke, leaving
her with a condition known as “locked-in syndrome.” Our unwavering dedication and commitment to our client led to a multimillion-dollar settlement. In her honor, we founded the Vicky Collins Foundation, which has donated over $3 million to benefit indigent disabled children.
Q: What makes you different than other law firms?
A: Sher, Cummings and Ellis cultivates an environment dedicated to legal scholarship. Over the years, Mr. Cummings has become deeply embedded in the fabric of the legal community. He is an adjunct professor at Scalia Law School and is president of the George Mason Chapter of Inns of Court. Mr. Cummings mentors young lawyers to achieve the highest level of professionalism. The ongoing roles Mr. Cummings fills illustrates his passion and dedication to supporting the rule of law and democratic ideals.
The staff of Sher, Cummings & Ellis
Bean, Kinney & Korman, P.C.
Awards/Honors:
Best Places to Work in Virginia
Best Places to Work in Arlington Arlington Magazine Top Attorneys, 20192025
Arlington Magazine Winner, Best Family Law Practice 2018 & 2024
2311 Wilson Blvd., Suite 500
Arlington, VA 22201
703-525-4000
info@beankinney.com www.beankinney.com
Q: How do you support clients emotionally and practically during legal proceedings?
A: We understand the stress and sensitivity of family matters, so we approach each case with empathy, respect and clear communication. Our attorneys provide practical guidance by explaining legal options, setting realistic expectations and advocating for the best possible outcomes. We also connect clients with trusted resources, such as counselors or mediators, when needed. Our goal is to help clients feel informed, supported and empowered as they navigate life’s most personal legal challenges.
Q: What makes Bean, Kinney & Korman different than other lawyers and law firms?
A: Because we have subject matter
experts in other practice areas (corporate, estate planning, intellectual property, real estate, etc.), we can more nimbly represent our professional clients. We routinely represent business owners, healthcare professionals and real estate professionals who confront a myriad of legal issues in their family law case and appreciate the breadth of our practice areas.
Q: What role do your values play in the way you interact with your clients?
A: At Bean, Kinney & Korman, our core values are the foundation of our legal practice, driving every interaction and decision to ensure exceptional client service. We prioritize building strong, trusting relationships with our clients by thoroughly understanding their unique legal, business and personal needs.
Family Law Practice, from top left: Christian Lapham, Taylor Klauza, Jill Seiferth, Jennifer McCammon, Theresa Mihalik, Alexandra Fletcher, Lynn Hawkins, Michelle Bieber, Daniel Perszyk
Eris Law Group PLLC
CHANDRA SHEPPARD, ESQUIRE
AMANDA P. PLANT, ESQUIRE
ALICE AHEARN, ESQUIRE
Amanda Plant focuses exclusively on estate planning, offering highly personalized guidance for wills, trusts, powers of attorney and business succession planning. She is known for tailoring each estate plan to the client’s unique family and financial needs— from basic documents to advanced tax strategies and special needs planning.
2461 Eisenhower Ave., Suite 264
Alexandria, VA 22331
703-672-8270
aplant@erislawgroup.com
erislawgroup.com
Q: Why should I choose to work with Eris Law Group?
A: At Eris Law Group, we help individuals and families across Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C. navigate complex legal moments with clarity, dignity and strategy. Whether you’re facing divorce, planning your legacy or managing a legal dispute, our boutique firm offers personalized, results-driven counsel.
Our attorneys deliver honest guidance and thoughtful planning to help you make informed decisions about your future. Whether you’re creating a will, setting up a trust, preparing medical directives and powers of attorney, considering a prenuptial agreement or facing a divorce, we help you understand your options and their long-term impact.
Q: What challenges do you help your clients overcome?
A: We feel that one of the biggest impediments for clients in starting the process of filing for divorce or drafting estate documents is the cost uncertainty. For many of our clients, we remove the uncertainty by offering a variety of flatrate services, with the rates published on our website. We also publish the cost of our hourly rate services; we do not hide the ball.
Eris Law Group is dedicated to offering exceptional legal services at fair, transparent prices. We recognize that quality legal representation shouldn’t be out of reach, which is why we work hard to provide real value to our clients while keeping our services accessible to those who need them.
MICHAEL VENTURA
Schmergel & Mersberger, PLC
SEAN P. SCHMERGEL, ESQ.
DENNIS M. MERSBERGER,
ESQ.
AV-rated firm serving Northern Virginia for nearly 22 years
Focusing exclusively on Divorce and Family Law and Criminal and Traffic Defense
Consistently recognized as Top Attorneys by Arlington Magazine, Washingtonian, Super Lawyers, Best Lawyers and Virginia Business Legal Elite
Q: How do you employ new technology to help your clients?
A: We have always employed the most cutting-edge technology in our practice, which today may even include ethical use of Artificial Intelligence to assist with legal research and other tasks. Today’s latest technologies have also permitted us to meet our clients where they are, which means employing video conferencing for consultations, meetings and even court appearances when necessary, using secure file-sharing platforms to send clients pleadings and other case documents, having secure online billing and payment platforms, and utilizing VOIP teleconferencing so calls can be appropriately routed and timely fielded whether working from the home or office. This also permits us to keep our clients abreast of developments in their cases in a timely and efficient manner, while
keeping costs reasonable.
Q: What makes you different than other firms?
A: Schmergel & Mersberger, PLC was established nearly twenty-two years ago with the goal of helping ordinary people who are most in need of legal assistance: in family law, primarily handled by Mr. Schmergel, and criminal defense, handled by Mr. Mersberger. Your friends, family and neighbors are most likely to experience the court system in one of two ways: they are either getting a divorce or experiencing a family dispute, such as child custody, or they have received a traffic violation or been charged with a criminal offense. We are uniquely positioned to handle these situations and bring significant experience to bear in both areas of the law, often receiving referrals from other attorneys for that reason.
(From left) Samantha Hargis, Sean Schmergel, Dennis Mersberger and Zachary Moore
The Geller Law Group
4000 Legato Road, Suite 1100 Fairfax, VA 22033
703-687-6188 www.thegellerlawgroup.com
Q: The Geller Law Group is celebrating 15 years next year. What makes your story different from other firms?
A: We revolutionized the traditional, maledominated law firm model. From day one, GLG has been women-owned, family-first and communitydriven. That vision has propelled our growth to 30+ professionals practicing in family law, business law, wills/trusts/estates/probate and civil litigation.
Q: What do clients notice most when they work with GLG?
A: They feel cared for. We pair big-firm skill with small-firm heart, making complex matters understandable, manageable and human. They also appreciate our dedication to providing pro bono services, often in partnership with nonprofits across the D.C. Metro region, as well as through our quarterly firm volunteer days.
Kelly Byrnes Danker & Luu, PLLC
Awards/Honors:
In addition to Arlington Magazine, John has been consistently recognized by Best Lawyers in America, Super Lawyers and Northern Virginia magazine for his legal skills in family law.
3975 Fair Ridge Drive, Suite 275N Fairfax, VA 22033
703-224-0888 www.kbdfamilylaw.com
Q: What brings you the most satisfaction in your work?
A: As a family law attorney, I am generally helping people through their most difficult life challenge. Being able to obtain a successful resolution without contested litigation is a very satisfying accomplishment. Helping clients focus on the important matters, while giving credence to all of their concerns, is an important skill that helps them focus on the important issues and progress to the next phase of their life.
Arlington Magazine Top Attorneys (from left):
Stephanie Sauer, Partner/ Family Law Practice Chair
Tammy Hui, Of Counsel/ Business Practice Chair
Cameronne Taillon, Partner/ Estate Practice Chair
Kramer Elias, PLLC
THEODORA STRINGHAM CRYSTAL KRAMER
Crystal Kramer, partner, is a seasoned litigator in landlord-tenant disputes. She delivers client-focused advocacy, strategic counseling and Fair Housing compliance advice, consistently achieving favorable outcomes.
Theodora Stringham, partner, provides zealous advocacy for complex commercial litigation, real estate and labor and employment matters. Her solutionsoriented approach and diverse practice background yield effective resolutions.
10427 North St., Suite 201, Fairfax, VA 22030 703-952-7986 | www.kramerelias.com
Q: Why should prospective clients consider working with Kramer Elias, PLLC?
A: Kramer Elias provides the highest quality of legal services with attorneys who are responsive, efficient and effective. Our experience and integrity have earned us the reputation of being leaders in real estate and commercial litigation representation. In addition, we secure favorable results in business-related and personal disputes, including (but not limited to) labor and employment, immigration and domestic relations matters.
Q: What makes you different than other firms?
A: Our team focuses on the specific needs of each client and works to meet their goals in a collaborative manner. Our role as trusted counselors has been built over several years and we consider it a privilege
to be part of our clients’ organizational and personal journeys. We provide effective advocacy and counseling with proven results both inside and outside of the courtroom.
Q: What’s an example of something in your professional life that you’re particularly proud of?
A: Crystal Kramer: Founding Kramer Elias PLLC with my partner. Building a clientcentered practice from the ground up has been both formative and deeply rewarding. Theodora Stringham: Obtaining results for individuals in difficult circumstances that otherwise would be unable to afford legal representation. I am grateful to the clients that trust me to represent their interests as part of my regular practice. Helping those that would typically be unable to access representation underscores the privilege of serving as an attorney and the importance of the legal system overall.
Berenzweig Leonard, LLP
Q: What makes Berenzweig Leonard different from other law firms?
Practice Areas: Employment/Labor; Government Contracts; Corporate Transactions; Business Law and Litigation; Intellectual Property; Immigration
Recognitions: Berenzweig Leonard’s attorneys have received various awards for their outstanding work by many organizations, including Arlington Magazine, Super Lawyers, Best Lawyers, Washington Business Journal, Virginia Lawyers Weekly, Virginia Business Magazine and Northern Virginia Magazine.
8300 Greensboro Drive, Suite 1250
Tysons, VA 22102
703-760-0402
www.berenzweiglaw.com
A: Our BL Team and core values are what set us apart. After 15 years in business, support and collaboration are still at the heart of everything we do. By supporting our team’s personal and professional growth, we empower them to expand their expertise and constantly level up their skills. This translates into a vibrant culture at the firm and helps us lead our clients to business success.
Q: How do you help clients navigate challenges in today’s business environment?
A: We prioritize engaging with our clients, creating a collaborative environment that supports business growth and pursuing positive outcomes. Responsiveness is an important part of our strategy, as is fully
Top Attorneys (from top left)
Charles Bonani
Clyde Findley
Rachael Haley
Declan Leonard
Nick Martinez
Elizabeth Payne-Maddalena
Connie D. Phelps
Drew Smith
Stephanie Wilson
Kristin Zech
understanding the unique needs of every client. Our goal is to prevent issues from arising in the first place. This proactive approach helps us reduce our clients’ legal risks by hosting training sessions, completing risk assessments and staying up to date on legal developments to maintain compliance.
Q: Are there any recent highlights for the firm?
A: We’re proud to share that ten of our attorneys were recognized as Top Attorneys by Arlington Magazine in 2025. We are deeply proud of all of them, and having so many members of our team selected by their peers in the legal community serves as a great testament that we are meeting the needs of clients and exceeding their expectations, which is always our goal.
Joshua Erlich
THE ERLICH LAW OFFICE
Awards/Honors:
President—Virginia Employment Lawyers Association
Washingtonian—D.C.’s Best Lawyers
Virginia Super Lawyers
Washington, D.C. Super Lawyers
Virginia Business Magazine—Virginia Legal Elite
Virginia State Bar Harry L. Carrico Professionalism Course—Faculty
1550 Wilson Blvd., Suite 700
Arlington, VA 22209
703-791-9087
www.erlichlawoffice.com
Q: How did you get started in civil rights law?
A: I started out in class actions and I quickly learned that, while you may represent 40,000 people, you rarely speak to any of them. I wanted to work with individual clients to help people solve their specific problems.
In 2012, I started this firm and I’ve worked closely with well over a thousand clients since then. I help people find justice—whether they’ve been fired unfairly, subjected to police violence or otherwise hurt by individuals in power.
Q: What is keeping you busy right now?
A: We are always busy with cases that involve workplace violence, sexual assaults and racial discrimination. We have seen a lot of pregnancy discrimination lately,
and we’ve also been busy with prisoners’ rights cases. Virginia’s jails and prisons are notoriously dangerous.
Beyond that, Virginia has vastly expanded its employment protections in recent years, including the right to pursue claims for unpaid wages under state law, and discrimination laws which cover sexual orientation and gender expression. And we finally have a private sector whistleblower law so you can’t be fired for reporting illegal activity to your supervisor or to the government.
Q: What makes you different than other firms?
A: The thing I hear most from clients and potential clients is some version of “thank you for your candor.” We are always straight with people, even if it isn’t what they want to hear.
(From left) Bryce Pratt-Smalls, Antyone Thorne, Katherine Herrmann, Joshua Erlich, Louise Thorne, Heather Murray, Sam Porter
John Pontius, Esq.
PONTIUS TAX LAW, PLLC
Awards/Honors:
Top Attorneys, Arlington, Northern Virginia and Bethesda Magazines
Super Lawyers, D.C. and MD Super Lawyers
Former Chair, State/Local Tax Committee, D.C. Bar
Former Tax Section Council, Maryland State Bar Association
Former Chair, Tax Section, Montgomery County Bar Association
Offices in Washington, D.C., Virginia and Maryland www.PontiusTaxLaw.com
Q: What should potential clients know about you?
A: I am the founder of Pontius Tax Law with offices in Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia. Pontius Tax Law strives to resolve sensitive tax problems through trust, dedication and value. Our client base is local, national and international.
Pontius Tax Law has been in business for eight years. I have been licensed as an attorney for 20 years. My staff includes two former IRS revenue officers with a combined 30 years of experience focusing on the collection phase of tax cases. Before opening my firm, I worked for five years at tax controversy firms in Maryland and the preceding two years in the international corporate tax group of KPMG in Tysons Corner, Virginia. I began my legal career as a Judge Advocate in the U.S. Army. I earned my Tax LL.M. from the Georgetown University Law Center.
Q: In what aeas have you represented clients with complex tax issues?
A: I represent individual and business clients with sensitive and serious tax matters before the IRS and state authorities. Areas include tax levies and liens, unfiled tax returns, offshore disclosures, FATCA, FIRPTA, employment taxes including trust fund recovery penalty, state and local taxes, audit exams as well as appeals and US Tax Court litigation. If you require assistance from a tax lawyer, contact us to discuss your situation.
MICHAEL VENTURA
Blankingship & Keith, P.C.
30 Attorneys Recognized by Best Lawyers in 2025
25 Attorneys Recognized by Super Lawyers in 2025
22 Attorneys Recognized by Virginia Business in 2024
11 Attorneys Recognized by Arlington Magazine in 2025
11 Attorneys Recognized by The Washingtonian in 2024
10 Attorneys Recognized by Northern Virginia Magazine 2023
703-691-1235 www.blankingshipandkeith.com
Q: What should potential clients know about Blankingship & Keith?
A: Founded in 1979 and headquartered in Fairfax, Blankingship & Keith is a general practice law firm recognized for its exceptional legal services. For nearly 45 years, Blankingship & Keith has been known for our commitment to serve clients diligently, expertly and comprehensively. Our 28 principals and 45 lawyers overall handle most aspects of civil practice, for a diverse clientele, including large corporations, small businesses and individuals.
Q: What makes you different than other law firms?
A: Blankingship & Keith sets itself apart through a client-centered approach that emphasizes consistent communication and personalized service, particularly within Virginia. The firm combines deep local knowledge and established relationships with a broad range of specialized legal services,
allowing them to effectively handle complex cases for diverse clients, including individuals, businesses and government entities. Known for our strong track record, collaborative team environment and commitment to community involvement, Blankingship & Keith upholds the highest ethical standards, ensuring we deliver exceptional legal representation with integrity and professionalism.
Q: How do you serve your clients?
A: Our areas of practice encompass civil litigation, appellate and trial consulting, commercial real estate, condemnation, personal injury, land use, education and local government law, family law, creditor’s rights, estate planning and general business matters. This broad spectrum of legal services underscores our versatility and depth. We understand that law is a service profession, and we make every effort to deliver services to our clients in accordance with the highest standards.
great spaces ■
by Wendy A. Jordan |
Radifera
Pattern Play
“THE GREAT BIG OPEN basement was a wonderful place for our kids to play,” Sarah McLaren says of the lower level of the home she and her husband, Dan, bought in Country Club Hills in 2013. The makeover came later, in 2021, once their two children were teenagers.
Out went the playroom in favor of a more adult-centric fun zone, complete with a game room, wet bar, billiards table (which doubles as a ping-pong table, thanks to a handy topper) and TV lounge, plus an expanded home gym where Dan often spars with a heavy bag. The mood is clubby and sophisticated, like a secret hideout.
Heeding her clients’ penchant for edgy patterns, Arlington interior designer Erin Tripodi used wallpaper to distin-
guish the various spaces. A hallway lined with Andy Warhol selfies (a print called “Selfie Flash” from flavorpaper.com) is reminiscent of “flamboyant bathrooms in New York restaurants,” Tripodi says, bringing an element of surprise to a vestibule that might otherwise be overlooked.
The gym is accented with a tiger print wallcovering by Aimee Wilder (aimeewilder.com). “Dan loves to box,” she says, and “the paper fit the eye-ofthe-tiger theme perfectly.” In the game room (not pictured), a graphic array of colorful cassette tapes forms the backdrop behind an air hockey table.
Semi-gloss gray paint (Benjamin Moore’s Kendall Charcoal) serves as a unifying element throughout, while
enabling the various wallcoverings to stand out. Tripodi chose brass and wood accents for warmth. “Basements usually are bland,” she says. Not this one.
“It makes us happy every time we go down there. We feel transported completely,” Sarah says. “All the wallpapers are conversation pieces—especially the Warhol paper.”
Kids’ reactions to it are especially funny, she adds, having recently overheard her 13-year-old son’s friend asking, “Who’s that weird guy?’”
What goes around comes around. “Kids today are always taking selfies,” she quips, and Polaroids are cool again. Warhol was clearly ahead of his time. ■
August’s Most Expensive Home Sales
22201 (Arlington)
2404 16th St. N.
List Price: $2.6 million
Sale Price: $2.55 million
Days on Market: 91
Listing Office: William G. Buck & Assoc.
Neighborhood: Lyon Village
Year Built: 2016
Bedrooms: 5
Full/Half Baths: 5/1
22202 (Arlington)
1015 20th St. S.
List Price: $2.25 million
Sale Price: $2.23 million
Days on Market: 124
Listing Office: Keller Williams Realty
Neighborhood: Addison Heights
Year Built: 2025
Bedrooms: 5
Full/Half Baths: 5/1
22203 (Arlington)
6013 Fourth St. N.
List Price: $1.6 million
Sale Price: $1.56 million
Days on Market: 46
Listing Office: Century 21 New Millennium
Neighborhood: Spy Hill
Year Built: 1992
Bedrooms: 5
Full/Half Baths: 3/1
22204 (Arlington)
2917 18th St. S.
List Price: $1.7 million
Sale Price: $1.63 million
Days on Market: 278
Listing Office: Fidelity Real Estate Corp.
Neighborhood: Green Valley
Year Built: 2024
Bedrooms: 6
Full/Half Baths: 5/1
This information, courtesy of Bright MLS as of Sept. 16, 2025, includes homes sold in August 2025, excluding sales in which sellers have withheld permission to advertise or promote. Information should be independently verified. The Bright MLS real estate service area spans 40,000 square miles throughout the mid-Atlantic region, including Delaware, Maryland, Washington, D.C., and parts of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. As a leading Multiple Listing Service (MLS), Bright serves approximately 100,000 real estate professionals who in turn serve over 20 million consumers. For more information, visit brightmls.com.
■ prime numbers
22205 (Arlington)
629 N. Illinois St.
List Price: $1.65 million
Sale Price: $1.66 million
Days on Market: 8
Listing Office: Corcoran McEnearney
Neighborhood: Bon Air
Year Built: 1948
Bedrooms: 5
Full/Half Baths: 3/0
22206 (Arlington)
5029 22nd St. S.
List Price: $1.05 million
Sale Price: $1.16 million
Days on Market: 4
Listing Office: Compass
Neighborhood: Claremont
Year Built: 1947
Bedrooms: 4
Full/Half Baths: 3/0
22207 (Arlington)
2920 N. Edison St.
List Price: $3.5 million
Sale Price: $3.25 million
Days on Market: 160
Listing Office: Compass
Neighborhood: Yorktown
Year Built: 2025
Bedrooms: 8
Full/Half Baths: 8/1
22209 (Arlington)
1881 N. Nash St., #2309
List Price: $3.45 million
Sale Price: $3.2 million
Days on Market: 74
Listing Office: Compass
Neighborhood: Rosslyn
Year Built: 2009
Bedrooms: 3
Full/Half Baths: 3/1
22213 (Arlington)
6325 36th St. N.
List Price: $2.73 million
Sale Price: $2.71 million
Days on Market: 29
Listing Office: Compass
Neighborhood: Minor Hill
Year Built: 2022
Bedrooms: 6
Full/Half Baths: 6/1
22101 (McLean)
6431 Georgetown Pike
List Price: $22.5 million
Sale Price: $18.5 million
Days on Market: 224
Listing Office: TTR Sotheby’s International Realty
Neighborhood: Langley Farms
Year Built: 2023
Bedrooms: 10
Full/Half Baths: 12/4
22102 (McLean)
918 Centrillion Drive
List Price: $4.13 million
Sale Price: $3.8 million
Days on Market: 77
Listing Office: Keller Williams Realty
Neighborhood: The Reserve
Year Built: 2004
Bedrooms: 6
Full/Half Baths: 6/1
22041 (Falls Church)
3804 Lakeview Terrace
List Price: $1.8 million
Sale Price: $1.65 million
Days on Market: 1
Listing Office: RE/MAX Distinctive Real Estate
Neighborhood: Lake Barcroft
Year Built: 1954
Bedrooms: 5
Full/Half Baths: 3/0
22042 (Falls Church)
6731 Nicholson Road
List Price: $1.17 million
Sale Price: $1.17 million
Days on Market: 119
Listing Office: eXp Realty
Neighborhood: Knollwood
Year Built: 1951
Bedrooms: 5
Full/Half Baths: 3/1
22043
(Falls Church)
1925 Hillside Drive
List Price: $2.24 million
Sale Price: $2.24 million
Days on Market: 18
Listing Office: Compass
Neighborhood: Pimmit Hills
Year Built: 2025
Bedrooms: 7
Full/Half Baths: 7/1
22044 (Falls Church)
6611 Dearborn Drive
List Price: $1.19 million
Sale Price: $1.19 million
Days on Market: 8
Listing Office: 4J Real Estate
Neighborhood: Mari Dale
Year Built: 1959
Bedrooms: 5
Full/Half Baths: 3/1
22046 (Falls Church)
2504 Buckelew Drive
List Price: $1.65 million
Sale Price: $1.63 million
Days on Market: 7
Listing Office: eXp Realty
Neighborhood: Poplar Terrace
Year Built: 2006
Bedrooms: 4
Full/Half Baths: 3/1
6325 36th St. N., Arlington SALE PRICE: $2.71 MILLION
Real Estate Sales Trends
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22207
22203
22209
22204
22213
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Kitchen and Bath Showcase
BOWA
7900 Westpark Drive, Suite A180, McLean, VA 22102
703-734-9050 | bowa.com
BIO:
BOWA is a trusted, award-winning design-build firm specializing in luxury renovations ranging from single-room upgrades to wholehome remodels. Our commitment to exceptional craftsmanship and a worry-free client experience means you can rest easy and enjoy your remodeling experience.
OUR WORK:
Today’s Kitchens & Baths: Where Timeless Meets Transformative
The most beautiful kitchens and baths today strike a balance between classic design and innovative details that elevate daily living. In kitchens, homeowners are embracing warm wood cabinetry and layered lighting, creating spaces that feel both inviting and highly functional. One recent BOWA kitchen paired rich wood tones with dramatic stone counters and a paneled hood, blending warmth with sophistication.
Bathrooms are evolving into spa-like retreats, with calming neutrals, organic textures and clever storage. In one remodel, waxed graphite stone walls framed a glass-enclosed shower, polished nickel fixtures added sleek contrast and honed dolomite tile softened the look—creating a space that feels bold yet serene.
At BOWA, we design more than rooms. We create spaces that engage the senses and last for years to come. With clarity from day one and confidence at every step, a better remodel begins with BOWA.
For over 35 years, our in-house team of architects, designers and construction professionals has delivered beautiful, functional renovations and custom homes. With thoughtful, needs-based designs and a seamless process, over 30% of our projects come from repeat clients.
OUR WORK:
This Arlington couple loved their 1940s Colonial but needed more space for family and friends. Their galley kitchen felt cramped, so we designed a two-story addition with a spacious kitchen that flows to a sitting area, dining nook and patio. The former kitchen became a butler’s pantry, adding smart storage. Cambria countertops, denim-toned cabinetry and Thermador appliances combine comfort and elegance, while special touches like a beverage station and custom cabinetry make entertaining effortless. The family now enjoys a light-filled, functional kitchen that is ideal for gathering. As the client shared, “I wouldn’t change a thing about the design or our experience.” See the transformation at BowersDesignBuild.com.
Classic Cottages is a boutique design-build firm creating luxury homes in Northern Virginia. With architecture, design and construction all under one roof, we deliver a seamless experience from the very first meeting to move-in day. Our seasoned team blends timeless craftsmanship with modern living, building homes tailored to your lifestyle and vision.
THE PROJECT:
Step inside 4777 26th Street N., Arlington—a stunning 5-bedroom, 5.5-bath luxury home designed for modern living and effortless entertaining. The main level features a gourmet kitchen with walk-in pantry, expansive great room, formal dining, private office and a convenient mudroom. Upstairs, the primary suite boasts a spa bath and walk-in closet, while three additional bedrooms offer en suite baths and ample storage. The lower level is made for fun and flexibility with a rec room, wet bar, guest suite and versatile space for a gym or studio. Outdoors, enjoy a rear deck and screened porch perfect for relaxing or hosting. A 2-car garage completes this exceptional home. Open concept, light filled and meticulously designed, every detail of this residence blends comfort, style and functionality—creating the perfect backdrop for your next chapter in Northern Virginia luxury living.
ODE DESIGN
205 W. Jefferson St., Falls Church, VA 22046
703-534-2500 | ode-design.com | IG: @ode_design_
BIO:
Under the leadership of Creative Director Yuri Sagatov, ODE Design (formerly Sagatov Design+Build) crafts sophisticated, unique homes through a holistic approach that seamlessly blends architecture, interior design, advanced technology and decades of construction expertise. Committed to excellence and innovation, we approach every project as a work of art and every client as a valued collaborator.
OUR WORK:
Jewel Box reimagines a modest WWII rambler as a modern, lightfilled home with a warm Scandinavian palette. The new layout centers on the original fireplace and chimney, a unifying thread between past and present. Anchoring a two-story atrium, the fireplace is visible from every room as natural light floods through the heart of the house.
Originally 1,200 square feet, the home was expanded with a second floor beneath a distinctive butterfly roof, doubling its size to a modest 2,400 square feet. The result is a refined balance of efficiency, intimacy and connection—an elegant transformation within a restrained footprint.
Discover more of our work on our website or Instagram.
TriVistaUSA Design + Build has been providing award-winning architectural, interior design and construction services for home renovations in the D.C. metro area for the past twenty years. Owners Michael and Deborah Sauri founded the company with the mission of helping people love their homes, and that starts with loving the remodeling process.
OUR WORK:
Our clients are a young couple who love to cook and bake, but their galley kitchen was narrow and isolated, with space for only one person with their Bernedoodle puppy always under foot. The TriVistaUSA team was excited for this challenge! First, they removed the kitchen walls to connect the kitchen to the family and dining rooms, and the rear exterior wall for a view of the yard. Then they added a large island, perfect for gathering. Last, they extended the cabinets into the dining room with a contrasting color, to expand storage while balancing cohesion and visual distinction between the two rooms. The result allows for more counter space, which is perfect for the young cooks, with better sight lines, flow and storage, including a showpiece bar for their extensive bourbon collection. We also added an “appliance garage” to hide countertop appliances from view. The new design feels cohesive, practical, warm and welcoming … perfect for entertaining.
As seen in: Architectural Digest, Martha Stewart, The Spruce and New Home Source
OUR WORK:
At BOLT Builders, we know remodeling your kitchen or bathroom is more than a project, it’s a milestone. That’s why our priority is making the process as stress-free as possible. From the start, we walk clients through what we call The Funk Chart: the emotional rollercoaster of remodeling. We cover the good times and the frustrating times, so surprises don’t catch you off guard.
“Surprises are normal, especially in older homes,” says founder Justin Olewack. “We want to be there when they happen and reassure you it’s going to be okay.” In one kitchen renovation, the floor turned out to be an inch out of level. There was an issue we couldn’t see until after we removed the floors. But because we planned for contingencies, the project moved forward smoothly. With expertise across every phase of construction, our team delivers kitchens, baths and homes built with quality craftsmanship you’ll love for years.
Arlington Designer Homes is celebrating over 40 years of serving our customers and building new custom homes and large-scale remodels. As a green building firm, we build for our clients’ needs with an emphasis on health, comfort and efficiency. These extra steps allow us to better control the environment in which we build.
OUR WORK:
We live local so we can pay attention to the details that keep a project moving forward on time and on budget. Our systems allow customers to see the progress of their project from near or far. Communication is key. We work with our customers to understand how they communicate and meet them where they are. We email updates on the project every week and each customer has a customized online portal where they can check progress, selections and view weekly photos. Let us help you build new or renovate your existing home.
We build for the way you live!
Denny + Gardner
571-220-1628 | www.DennyandGardner.com
BIO:
For 20+ years, Denny + Gardner has transformed homes throughout Northern Virginia and the D.C. area. The in-house design team develops the best solution for each individual project, from kitchens and baths to additions, whole house renovations and custom homes. Their experience, responsiveness and attention to detail help them consistently exceed client expectations.
OUR WORK:
Working closely with clients from the initial consultation to the final touches ensures each project is completed to the highest standards in a timely manner.
Primary Suite Renovation (pictured above): A repeat client was ready for a spa-like setting in their primary suite. Reconfiguring the bathroom made space for dual floating vanities and a freestanding tub in addition to a large shower.
Kitchen Renovation and Home Addition (side photo): Adding a second story to an Arlington home gave the opportunity to add height to the kitchen, transforming a small, dark kitchen into a light-filled open entertaining space. Floor-to-ceiling custom cabinetry gives ample pantry space alongside the large island. Visit www.DennyandGardner.com for a full gallery of home renovations and featured projects.
by David Hagedorn
Tapa
Mind
Westpost newcomer El Mercat Bar de Tapas, which opened in September, offers a bonanza of Spanish small plates, but my heart belongs to the roast chicken and chorizo paella topped with dollops of salsa verde. I’m a sucker for socarrat—the crusty, crunchy layer of rice at the bottom of the pan.
This is the second location of El Mercat, which chef George Rodrigues and his wife, Wanessa Alves, debuted in Rockville, Maryland, in 2022. The name is sentimental: Rodrigues proposed to Alves in 2015 at Barcelona’s huge outdoor market, El Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria. Rodrigues brings plenty of culinary experience to the table, having worked for noted chefs Jose Garces and Michael Schlow, and as chef of the D.C. tapas restaurant Boqueria from 2018 to 2021.
Alves designed the 4,057-squarefoot space, which seats 120, including a 24-seat bar. The couple plans to introduce a 40-seat patio next spring, but in the meantime is offering rinkside hot chocolate and churros to
folks visiting Westpost’s outdoor skating rink throughout the winter.
The menu features a stunning 32 tapas, including meat, fish and vegetarian options ($8-$18), along with five paellas ($16-$46) and a handful of entrees and desserts. Standouts include the gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp), and a custardy Spanish tortilla layered with potatoes and served with saffron and garlic mayo. I can also recommend the crab and artichoke dip with goat cheese, cod fritters with aioli, and lamb meatballs with tomato sauce and Manchego.
The seafood paella, its bomba rice black from squid ink, is teeming with mussels, clams, shrimp and squid. And don’t miss the jamonero cart for Iberico be Bellota ham sliced tableside. For dessert ($10), try the Basque cheesecake or churros stuffed with Nutella or dulce de leche. elmercatbardetapas.com
Paella at El Mercat Bar de Tapas
Chef George Rodrigues
J. MICHAEL WHALEN
Javier and Stella Fernandez
BrotherSister Act
In September, chef Javier Fernandez and his sister, Stella, opened two Filipino food businesses inside an 1,100-square-foot storefront near National Landing’s Met Park. Stella, a former NIH administrator, owns Gwenie’s Pastries, the bakery and wholesale business their mother, Gwendolyn (now retired), launched in 2005. Javier and his wife, Jennifer, co-own Lapu Lapu, which specializes in luscious egg-based breakfast sandwiches.
Pan de sal—fluffy, slightly sweet Filipino rolls— are a specialty at Gwenie’s and form the basis of Lapu Lapu’s sandwiches ($10-$15). For a hearty start to the day, treat yourself to pan de sal stuffed with soy-braised pork, pickles and a fried egg; or corned beef, scrambled egg, Swiss cheese, potato chips and Russian slaw. Typical American combos (e.g., bacon, egg, cheese) and vegetarian options with Beyond meat are available, too.
The bakery’s repertoire also includes pan de coco (sweet rolls filled with coconut), hopia (rolls filled with mung bean or pork filling) and torta de Cebu, a type of poundcake. Ube (purple yam), a staple of Filipino cooking, figures prominently in goodies such as doughnuts, graham-cracker-crusted pie, cheesecake, brioche loaf and a chiffon cake topped with leche flan. gweniespastries.com
ORDER THIS now
Lapu Luxury
The Bistek breakfast sandwich ($16) at Lapu Lapu piles thinly sliced lemonsoy ribeye steak, fried egg, pickled onions, white American cheese sauce, lettuce and garlic adobo mayo on pan de sal. Fair warning: It’s a 10-napkin alarm! lapulapubreakfast.com
The Bistek at Lapu Lapu
Filipino sweets at Gwenie's Pastries
Khao yum (rice salad) at Sorn Thai in McLean
Family Thai
MY EYES WIDEN as the chu chee Maine lobster tail hits the table at Sorn Thai Restaurant and Bar in McLean. Striped with grill marks and perched on top of its red shell, the lobster meat is surrounded by a fragrant and fiery red curry sauce and flanked by colorful slices of zucchini and red pepper.
Chu chee refers to the sizzling sound the curry paste makes when added to hot oil, and this dish is as visually stunning as it is a wake-up call for the tastebuds. The sauce is bold, but not aggressive, and a complement to the sweetness of the shellfish. And the modest price—$27—is a welcome jolt in this era of $40 entrees.
Sorn Thai, which opened in March, is the second restaurant for chef and co-owner Supisa Teawbut, who goes by “Boom,” a nickname conferred upon her by her mother. Her first eatery, Donsak Thai Restaurant in D.C.’s Woodley Park, is named for her birthplace, Don Sak, a district in southeastern Thailand.
Teawbut, 34, first came to the U.S. in 2013 on a work-study program
At Sorn Thai, sisters Boom and Wym
Teawbut pay tribute to their grandmother’s flavorful cooking.
BY DAVID HAGEDORN PHOTOS BY DEB LINDSEY
in Maine. She later made her way to the nation’s capital, lured by the city’s large Thai community, and landed a job at Beau Thai restaurant in Mount Pleasant, where she stayed for seven years, utilizing the cooking skills she’d learned from her family and working her way into a management position. The restaurant’s owners sponsored her green card and supported her decision to strike out on her own.
In McLean’s Chesterbrook Shopping Center, she found an ideal space for her second venture, with ample parking. The 3,000-square-foot restaurant seats 78 inside, including 10 at the bar
and 12 on a covered outdoor patio. The atmosphere is modern but nondescript, with white and mint green subway tiles, an open kitchen and exposed ductwork. Cane-backed bistro chairs and pots of fresh orchids are the main design elements.
Joining Teawbut in the kitchen is her sister, Prapassorn “Wym” Teawbut, 28, who until recently was cooking at the Ritz-Carlton Bacara in Santa Barbara, California. “I told [her] she had to come and be my chef,” says the restaurateur. “She knows all the family recipes.” Both sisters live in Fairfax. Sorn Thai is named after their late grandmother, a culinary mentor.
The vast menu features some 75 dishes, not including sides. To save yourself from feeling overwhelmed, start with an order of deep-fried chive cakes and some steamed shrimp and pork dumplings. The pleasingly chunky filling in the latter is an indication that the ingredients are chopped by hand, not factory produced.
Cocktails designed by bar manager and co-owner Liz Syndner are well-bal-
SORN THAI
6224E Old Dominion Drive, McLean
703-564-0630
sornthaiva.com
HOURS
Monday through Friday: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 5 to 10 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
PARKING
Plenty of free parking
PRICES
Appetizers: $7 to $14
Noodle and rice dishes: $16 to $22
Entrees: $16 to $28
Desserts: $7 to $10
anced, leaning toward tart, rather than overly sweet. A pineapple Aperol daiquiri and an Aviation-like Water Lily (gin, Cointreau, crème de Violette, lemon juice) are cases in point.
Make a beeline for the dishes listed on the menu as Sorn’s Obsessions. Khao yum, a southern Thai rice salad, is a head-turner, anchored by a mound of rice cooked with butterfly pea tea, which conveys a periwinkle hue. The rainbow of fruits and vegetables surrounding it includes bean sprouts, green beans, mango, carrots, red cabbage and grapefruit segments, plus a hit of umami from powdered dried fermented fish. The tangy dressing on the side is a heady mix of lemongrass, gin-
ger, galangal, shrimp paste, sugar, lime juice and corn juice. Toss everything together and the result is a mind-blowing explosion of sweet, sour, salt and acid.
Moo hong, a hearty pork belly stew with hints of cinnamon and star-anise, gets a kick of heat from dried chilies. It’s served with a fluffy, deep-fried milk bun and a vinegar-based dipping sauce.
“You take a bite of stew, dip and eat the bread, and go back and forth,” Teawbut instructs. “That balances the sweet and sour.”
Other specialties are just as intriguing. Haaw-mohk, a delicate whitefish mousse tinged pink from red curry, is drizzled with coconut milk and topped with fried anchovies and micro-cilantro. Tempura beech mushrooms dusted with black truffle powder and Parmesan cheese make a delightful snack to pair with cocktails.
I’m partial to tum luang prabang, a Laotian version of papaya salad in which the green fruit is shaved into wide, noodle-like ribbons, rather than shredded. Shrimp paste and dried shrimp add funk to the usual dressing of fish sauce, palm sugar and lime juice.
A couple of poultry dishes didn’t quite hit the mark. Duck rolls wrapped in chewy roti pancakes were overwhelmed by a dipping sauce that was too sweet. And a batter-fried duck stir fry billed as “crispy” was instead flabby and lackluster. But my palate immedi-
A pineapple Aperol daiquiri
Chef and co-owner Boom Teawbut
ately kicked back into gear with a bowl of geang kua—meaty mussels steamed with coconut milk, makrut lime leaves and red curry.
I always order my favorite noodle dish, pad see ew, in Thai restaurants, and Sorn’s version is one of the better ones. The wide rice noodles were
chewy and slightly smoky from wok hei (the flavor imparted by a well-seasoned wok), and the soy-garlic sauce was nicely caramelized.
The pandan creme brulee topped with fresh berries is a fine Thai rendition of the French classic, its custard barely set and indicative of good tech-
WHAT TO DRINK
Twelve craft cocktails ($14 to $16) lean heavily toward Asian flavor profiles, such as the Tom Kha Sip (lemongrassinfused gin, rum, coconut milk, sweet vermouth) and Mango Sticky Rice (Cognac, mango syrup, coconut milk, lemon juice, sesame).
The wine and beer offerings, though not extensive, are thoughtfully curated. There are five draft beers ($8 to $12) and five canned brews ($9 to $10), including Humble Forager flavored seltzers.
Sixteen wines are available by the glass ($10 to $20) and bottle ($40 to $80), including two sparkling, one rosé, six whites and six reds.
nique. A similar offering—a warm and saucy creme anglaise made with pandan and topped with swirls of evaporated milk—turns out to be even better. It’s served with steamed puffs of sweet brioche for dunking. If the brioche weren’t there and no one was looking, I’d happily drink that sauce like a beverage. ■
Chu chee Maine lobster tail with red curry
Pandan creme brulee
places to EAT
ARLINGTON
1983 Chinese Cuisine
1101 S. Joyce St., 703-512-3089, 1983chinese cuisine.com. A destination for dim sum and other traditional Cantonese dishes. R L D G V $$
A Modo Mio Pizzeria
5555 Langston Blvd., 703-532-0990, amodomio pizza.com. Dig into authentic Neapolitan pies, house-made gnocchi, lasagna, spaghetti del mare and cannoli. o L D V $$
Aladdin Sweets & Tandoor
5169 Langston Blvd., 703-533-0077, aladdin arlington.com. Chef Shiuli Rashid and her husband, Harun, prepare family recipes from their native Bangladesh. L D $$
Al-Shami Restaurant
5216 Wilson Blvd., 703-373-0291, alshamiva. com. Dig into falafel, shawarma and other Syrian delights courtesy of Basima Chouban, who previously operated Layalina in the same space for 27 years. Closed Mondays. L D G V $$
Ambar Clarendon
2901 Wilson Blvd., 703-875-9663, ambarrestau rant.com. Feast on Balkan specialties such as stuffed cabbage, mushroom pilav and rotisserie meats. O R L D G V $$
Andy’s Pizza
901 N. Pollard St. (entrance on Fairfax Drive), 703552-4037, eatandyspizza.com. Andy Brown’s thincrust pies fall somewhere between Neapolitan and New York-style. Try the pepperoni special with burrata, basil and Mike’s hot honey. L D V $
Angolino Pizza
3125 Wilson Blvd., 703-760-3210, pizzaforpizza lovers.com. When it’s late and you need a slice, this Clarendon eatery hits the spot. L D V A $
Anita’s New Mexico Style Bar & Grill
3444 Fairfax Drive, 571-290-0659, anitascorp. com. Find burritos, enchiladas, fajitas and other Tex-Mex standards. O C B R L D G V $
Arlington Kabob
5046 Langston Blvd., 703-531-1498, arlingtonka bobva.com. Authentic Afghan fare includes kebabs, shawarma and lamb shank with rice. L D $$
Astro Beer Hall
4001 Campbell Ave., 703-664-0744, astrobeer hall.com. Jet to this space-themed brewpub for fried chicken, burgers, doughnuts and a retro basement billiards hall called 1969. o B R L D A $$
Bakeshop
1025 N. Fillmore St., 571-970-6460, bakeshop va.com. A tiny storefront serving coffee, cupcakes, cookies, icebox pies and vegan treats. B V $
Ballston Local s
900 N. Glebe Road, 703-852-1260, ballstonlocal. com. Pair your local brew with a plate of poutine or a New York-style pizza. L D V $$
Banditos Tacos & Tequila
1301 S. Joyce St., 571-257-7622, banditostnt.com. Mexican street food, tequila, mezcal and sugar-skull décor keep the party going. o L D G V $$
Bangkok 54
2919 Columbia Pike, 703-521-4070, bangkok54res taurant.com. A favorite for Thai curries, grilled meats, stir-fry, noodles and soups. L D V $$
Bar Bao
3100 Clarendon Blvd., 703-600-0500, barbao-va. com. Find trendy dishes reminiscent of Chinese and Taiwanese street food, plus sake, soju and Asian fusion cocktails. L D V $$
Bar Chinois
244 19th Court S., 703-416-6769, barchinoisnl. com. The award-winning concept blends Chinese small plates with French-inspired cocktails and wine. O D G V $$$
Bar Colline
269 19th Court S., 703-567-4792, barcolline. com. French bistro fare, wine happy hours and Parisian-style sidewalk seating await at the latest
concept from hospitality veterans Ian and Eric Hilton. O L D G V $$$
Barley Mac 1600 Wilson Blvd., 703-372-9486, barleymacva. com. Upscale tavern fare, plus more than 100 kinds of whiskey and bourbon. R L D A G V $$
Basic Burger 1101 S. Joyce St., 703-248-9333, basicburger. com. The homegrown eatery cooks with locally sourced, certified Angus beef and cage-free, antibiotic-free chicken. L D $$
Bayou Bakery, Coffee Bar & Eatery 1515 N. Courthouse Road, 703-243-2410, bayou bakeryva.com. Chef David Guas’ New Orleans-inspired menu includes beignets and gumbo. Breakfast all day on weekends. O C B R L D G V $
Beauty Champagne & Sugar Boutique
576 23rd St. S., 571-257-5873, beautycham pagneandsugar.com. Find cocktail fixings, sweets, small plates, wine and bubbly at this woman-owned bistro and market. Closed Mondays. L D $$
KEY: Price designations are based on the approximate cost per person for a meal with one drink, tax and tip.
$ under $20
$$ $21-$35
$$$ $36-$70
$$$$ $71 or more
o Outdoor Dining
c Children’s Menu
B Breakfast
R Brunch
L Lunch
D Dinner
A After Hours/Late Night
G Gluten-Free
V Vegetarian
s Best of Arlington 2024 or 2025 Winner
Oasis: The Listening Bar
■ places to eat
Bethesda Bagels
1851 N. Moore St., 703-312-1133, bethesdabagels. com. The popular DMV chain has an outpost in Rosslyn. Eat a sandwich! O L V $
BGR the Burger Joint
3129 Langston Blvd., 703-812-4705, bgrtheburger joint.com. Top your dry-aged beef, veggie or turkey burger with add-ons like grilled jalapeño, pineapple or fried egg. C L D V $
Big Buns Damn Good Burger Co. s 4401 Wilson Blvd., 703-276-3032; 4251 Campbell Ave., 703-933-2867, eatbigbuns.com. Satisfy all your cravings with creative burgers, shakes, beer and booze. B L D $$
Bird’s Eye Thai
1651 Crystal Drive, birdseyethai.com. Order up a round of tiki drinks, crispy spring rolls and khao soi noodles from this outdoor kiosk in National Landing’s Water Park. O L D $$
Bluefish Bistro Sushi & Kitchen
950 S. George Mason Drive, 703-270-0102, blue fishbistro.com. Try specialty rolls with names like Green Dragon and King Kong. Closed Tuesdays. L D G V $$
Bob & Edith’s Diner
2310 Columbia Pike, 703-920-6103; 539 23rd St. S., 703-920-2700; 5050 Langston Blvd., 703-5940280; bobandedithsdiner.com. Founded in 1969, the 24-hour eatery whips up pancakes, eggs, meatloaf, and pie à la mode. C B L D A V $
BOE
2854 Wilson Blvd., 571-312-0130, theboexperi ence.com. Take a ride on the mechanical bull and then reward yourself with a fried chicken biscuit and a Bucking Bronco (a smokey riff on a whiskey sour). The rooftop tiki bar lives on in this former Whitlow’s space. O R D A $$
Bollywood Bistro Express
4238 Wilson Blvd. (Ballston Quarter), 571-3121071, bollywoodbistroexpress.com. Build your own bowl with fillers such as chicken tikka, paneer, chana masala and pickled onions. L D V $$
Bonsai Sushi at Crystal City
553 23rd St. S., 703-553-7723, crystalbonsai sushirestaurant.com. A go-to for sushi, sashimi, yakisoba, tempura, teriyaki. Closed Mondays. L D $$
Bostan Uyghur Cuisine
3911 Langston Blvd., 703-522-3010, bostanuyghur. com. The Uyghur Chinese dishes include kebabs, lagmen (hand-pulled noodles), manta (dumplings) and honey cake. L D $$
Brass Rabbit Public House 1210 N. Garfield St., 703-746-9977, brassrabbit pub.com. Pair lettuce wraps and crab BLTs with craft cocktails like the El Conejo, featuring tequila, carrot juice, ginger, lime and cilantro. O R L D V A $$
Bronson Bierhall
4100 Fairfax Drive, 703-528-1110, bronsonbier hall.com. Find German and regional beers, sausages, schnitzel and cornhole in this 6,000-squarefoot ode to Munich. O L D A $$
Bubbie’s Plant Burgers
1721 Crystal Drive, bubbiesburgers.com. Grab a plant-based or kosher burger, a fried green tomato sandwich or a plate of avocado fries at this outdoor kiosk in National Landing’s Water Park. O L D V $ Buena Vida s 2900 Wilson Blvd., 703-888-1528, buenavida gastrolounge.com. Savor the flavors of Mexico, from tacos to churros, and head to the top floor for one of the best rooftop bars in town. O R L D $$
Burger Billy’s Joint
3800 Langston Blvd., 703-512-0102, burgerbillys joint.com. Order smashburgers made from locally sourced Angus beef (or plant-based), as well as hot dogs, wings and fries. L D V $
Busboys and Poets
4251 S. Campbell Ave., 703-379-9757, busboys andpoets.com. Known for its poetry slams, onsite bookstore and social justice programming, the
café offers an eclectic menu with plenty of options for vegetarians. O C B R L D G V $$
Café Colline
4536 Langston Blvd., 703-567-6615, cafecolline va.com. The cozy French bistro in the Lee Heights Shops satisfies with paté maison, duck confit and chocolate pots de creme. O R L D $$
Café Sazón
4704 Columbia Pike, 703-566-1686, cafesazon. com. A homey Bolivian café specializing in dishes such as silpancho and empanadas. B L D V $$
Call Your Mother Deli
1671 Crystal Drive, 571-867-9983, callyourmother deli.com. The self-described “Jew-ish” deli serves its signature bagels, schmears and latkes from a kiosk in National Landing’s Water Park. B R L $
Capital Doner
1731 Wilson Blvd., capitaldoner.com. Stop in for Turkish doner kebab, halal meats, house-made sauces and locally sourced vegetables in wraps, platters and rice bowls. B L D A $
Carbonara s
3865 Wilson Blvd., 703-721-3905, carbonarava. com. Enjoy house-made pastas, eggplant parm, chicken cacciatore and the spirit of Sinatra at this old-world-meets-modern Italian trattoria.
L D V $$$
Caribbean Grill
5183 Langston Blvd., 703-241-8947. Cuban preparations such as jerk-style pork, fried plantains and black bean soup are mainstays. C L D G V $
Carlyle
4000 Campbell Ave., 703-931-0777, greatameri canrestaurants.com/carlyle. The original anchor of Shirlington Village is a reliable pick for fusion fare, happy hour and Sunday brunch.
O C R L D G V $$$
CarPool Beer and Billiards
900 N. Glebe Road, 703-516-7665, gocarpool.com. Head out for pool, pub grub and an extensive beer list, including “house” suds brewed at sister bar the Board Room. D A $
The Celtic House Irish Pub & Restaurant
2500 Columbia Pike, 703-746-9644, celtichouse va.com. The pub on the Pike serves up pints alongside favorites like corned beef and traditional Irish breakfast. C R L D A $$
Charga Grill
5151 Langston Blvd., 703-988-6063; 3203 Columbia Pike, 703-574-5050; chargagrill.com. How do you like your chicken? Choose Peruvian, jerk, Tandoori or Pakistani charga or sajii. L D $$
Chiko s
4040 Campbell Ave., 571-312-0774, mychiko. com. Fan favorites at this Chinese-Korean joint include cumin lamb stir-fry and double-fried chicken wings. C L D G V $$
Circa at Clarendon s
3010 Clarendon Blvd., 703-522-3010, circabis tros.com. Bistro fare ranges from salads and small plates to steak frites and wild mushroom pizza. Sit outside if you can. O R L D A G V $$$
Colada Shop
2811 Clarendon Blvd., 571-771-8400; 244 19th Court S., 703-631-5320; coladashop.com. Hit this colorful Caribbean coffee cafe and bar for beachy vibes, tropical drinks and Cuban-inspired eats.
C B R L D V $$
Colony Grill
2800 Clarendon Blvd., 703-682-8300, colonygrill. com. The Stamford, Connecticut-based pizza chain specializes in ultra-thin-crust “bar pies” with a spicy, pepper-infused hot oil topping. L D G V $$
Copperwood Tavern
4021 Campbell Ave., 703-522-8010, copperwood tavern.com. This rustic saloon serves up steaks and chops, draft beers and 30 small-batch whiskeys. O R L D $$$
Cornerstone 2900 Columbia Pike, 703-512-2056, pikecorner stone.com. The menu is heavy on apps and share-
ables such as wings, nachos and skewers, but you’ll also find salads, burgers and rib-sticking entrees. C O R D A $
Corso Italian 4024 Campbell Ave., 703-933-8787, corsoitalian. com. Enjoy fresh pastas, porchetta and veal chop Milanese at this Italian trattoria by Cheesetique “cheese lady” Jill Erber. O r L D V $$$
Cowboy Café
4792 Langston Blvd., 703-243-8010, thecowboy cafe.com. Cool your heels and fill up on sandwiches, burgers, brisket and chili mac. An outdoor beer garden features a mural by Arlington artist MasPaz. Live music on weekends. O C R L D V $$
Crush Pizza + Wine 1601 Crystal Drive, crushpizzaandwine.com. Enjoy New York-style pizza, wines by the glass and patio crushers at this al fresco dining spot in National Landing’s Water Park. O L D V $$
Crystal City Sports Pub
529 23rd St. S., 703-521-8215, ccsportspub.com. Open 365 days a year, it’s a sure bet for big-screen TVs, pool tables, trivia and poker nights, beers and bar snacks. C B R L D A G V $$
Crystal Thai
4819 First St. N., 703-522-1311, crystalthai.com. A neighborhood go-to for traditional Thai curries, grilled meats and house specialties like roast duck.
L D V $$
Dama Restaurant & Cafe
1503 Columbia Pike, 703-920-3559, damapas try.com. The Ethiopian family-owned business includes a breakfast café, market and dining room.
B L D V $$
Darna
946 N. Jackson St., 703-988-2373, darnava.com. Snack on mezze and flatbreads at this cocktail and hookah bar. D A V $$
Delhi Dhaba Indian Restaurant
2424 Wilson Blvd., 703-524-0008, delhidhaba.com. The best bargain is the “mix and match” platter, which includes tandoori, seafood, a curry dish and a choice of rice or naan. O L D G V $$
Detour Coffee
946 N. Jackson St., 703-988-2378, detourcoffee co.com. This comfy cafe has a college vibe and serves up locally roasted coffee, light bites and weekend brunch. O B R L V $
District Dumplings
923 S. Glebe Road, 571-518-9764, districtdump lings.com. When you’re hungry for Asian-style dumplings, sandwiches and wraps. L D $$
District Taco
5723 Langston Blvd., 703-237-1204; 1500 Wilson Blvd., 571-290-6854; districttaco.com. A local favorite for tacos and gargantuan burritos. C B L D G V $
Don Tito
3165 Wilson Blvd., 703-566-3113, dontitova.com.
The sports bar specializes in tacos, tequila and beer, with a rooftop bar. O R L D $$
Dudley’s Sport and Ale
2766 S. Arlington Mill Drive, 571-312-2304, dudleyssportandale.com. A supersize sports bar with wall-to-wall TVs, a roof deck, a ballpark-inspired beer list and weekend brunch. O C R L D A $$
Earl’s Sandwiches
2605 Wilson Blvd., 703-647-9191, earlsinarling ton.com. Made-to-order sandwiches use prime ingredients, like fresh roasted turkey. O B L D G V $
East West Cafe
3101 Wilson Blvd., 571-800-9954, ewcafe.com. Go for espresso drinks, brunch (try the massive Turkish breakfast spread), sandwiches, tapas, beer and wine. B L D $
El Mercat Bar de Tapas
1301 S. Joyce St., 703-567-4369, elmercatbarde tapas.com. Chef George Rodrigues brings Spanish small plates and five kinds of paella to Westpost. R D G V $$$
El Paso Café
4235 N. Pershing Drive, 703-243-9811, elpaso cafeva.com. Big portions, big margaritas and bighearted service make this Tex-Mex cantina a local favorite. C L D G V $$
El Pike Restobar
4111 Columbia Pike, 703-521-3010, elpikeresto bar.com. Bolivian dishes satisfy at this no-frills institution. Try the salteñas stuffed with chicken or with beef, olives and hard-boiled egg. L D $
El Pollo Rico
932 N. Kenmore St., 703-522-3220, elpollorico. com. A local institution, this rotisserie chicken mecca gained even more street cred after a visit from the late Anthony Bourdain. L D V $
El Rey
4201 Wilson Blvd., 571-312-5530, elreyva.com. Down tacos, margs and draft brews in a colorful interior featuring street-art murals by Mike Pacheco. Visit The Filling Station next door for live music. L D A $$
Elevation Burger
2447 N. Harrison St., 703-300-9467, elevation burger.com. Organic, grass-fed beef is ground on the premises, fries are cooked in olive oil and the shakes are made with fresh-scooped ice cream.
O L D V $
Eli’s Taqueria
3207 Columbia Pike, 703-663-4777. Dig into beef birria tortas, shrimp tacos and pupusas at this homey spot (a spin-off of the Taqueria La Ceibita food truck) run by Nevi Paredes and his daughter, Yorktown alum Elizabeth Marquez. L D $ Falafel Inc.
1631 Crystal Drive, falafelinc.org. Fill a pita or bowl with falafel, pickled veggies and your choice
of sauces. The eatery donates a portion of its sales to feed refugees. O L D V $
Fat Fish
1641 Crystal Drive, fatfishrolls.com. Grab poke bowls, sushi and bento boxes from this budgetfriendly kiosk in National Landing’s Water Park. O L D G $
Federico Ristorante Italiano
519 23rd St., 703-486-0519, federicoristorante italiano.com. Go for pasta and chianti at this trattoria co-owned by Freddie’s Beach Bar proprietor Freddie Lutz. L D V $$
Fettoosh
5100 Wilson Blvd., 703-527-7710, fettoosh restaurant.com. Pita sandwiches and kebabs keep the kitchen fired up at this bargain-priced Lebanese and Moroccan restaurant. C R L D G V $ Fire Works
2350 Clarendon Blvd., 703-527-8700, fireworks pizza.com. Enjoy wood-fired pizzas and more than 30 craft beers on tap. You can also build your own pasta dish. O C L D A G V $$
First Down Sports Bar & Grill s
4213 Fairfax Drive, 703-465-8888, firstdownsports bar.com. Three cheers for draft beers and snacks ranging from sliders to queso dip. L D A V $$
For Five Coffee Roasters
1735 N. Lynn St.; 2311 Wilson Blvd., 571-2577219, forfivecoffee.com. Pop in for coffee drinks, espresso martinis, acai bowls, avo toast and “stuffed” cookies. B R L G V $
Four Sisters Grill
3035 Clarendon Blvd., 703-243-9020, foursisters grill.com. A go-to for banh mi sandwiches, papaya salad, spring rolls and noodle dishes. O L D $$
Freddie’s Beach Bar
555 23rd St. S., Arlington, 703-685-0555, fred
diesbeachbar.com. Freddie Lutz’s “gay, straightfriendly” hangout is always a party, with Barbiecore décor, flashy drinks, drag bingo and weekend brunch. O R D A V $$
Galaxy Hut
2711 Wilson Blvd., 703-525-8646, galaxyhut.com. Pair craft beers with vegan bar foods like “fricken” sandwiches and smothered tots. L D A G V $$
Gharer Khabar
5157 Langston Blvd., 703-973-2432, gharerkhabar va.com. Translated as “home’s food,” this art-filled, 14-seat café serves Bangladeshi fare cooked by chef Nasima Shreen. L D $$
Good Company Doughnuts & Café 672 N. Glebe Road, 703-243-3000; 1350 S. Eads St., 703-894-1002; gocodough.com. The family- and veteran-owned eatery serves house-made doughnuts, Intelligentsia coffee and savory cafe fare. B L V $$
Good Stuff Eatery
2110 Crystal Drive, 703-415-4663, goodstuff eatery.com. Spike Mendelsohn’s Crystal City outpost offers gourmet burgers (beef, turkey or mushroom), shakes, fries and salads. L D G V $ Grand Cru Wine Bar and Bistro 4301 Wilson Blvd., 703-243-7900, grandcrubistro. com. This intimate European-style café includes a wine shop next door. O R L D G $$$
Grazie Grazie 4121 Wilson Blvd., 571-216-2999, graziegrazie.com. Give thanks for Italian subs like the 8+1 (Genoa salami, hot capicola, prosciutto and sharp provolone), plus pizzas, salads and cannoli. L D $
Green Pig Bistro 2900 Wilson Blvd., 703-888-1920, greenpigbistro. com. An Arlington fave for Southern-influenced
■ places to eat
food, craft cocktails, happy hour and brunch. R L D G V $$$
Guajillo
1727 Wilson Blvd., 703-807-0840, guajillo mexican.com. Authentic Mexican dishes such as carne asada, mole poblano and churros are favorites. O C L D G V $$
Guapo’s Restaurant
4028 Campbell Ave., 703-671-1701, guaposres taurant.com. Expect hearty portions of all the TexMex standbys—quesadillas, enchiladas, fajitas, tacos and burritos. O C R L D G V $$
Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ
1119 N. Hudson St., 571-527-0445, gyu-kaku.com. Marinated meats, veggies and seafood are cooked on tabletop grills. L D $$
Gyu San
4300 Wilson Blvd., 571-312-7373, gyusan.com. Japanese barbecue, sushi, soba noodles and saki. L D G $$$
Hal & Al’s BBQ
4238 Wilson Blvd., 703-400-8884, halandals bbq.com. There’s no pork on the menu at this halal ’cue joint. Go for beef brisket, turkey sausage or beef “Dino” ribs rubbed with Old Bay and other spices. L D $$
Hanabi Ramen
3024 Wilson Blvd., 703-351-1275, hanabiramen usa.com. Slurp multiple variations of the namesake noodle soup, plus rice bowls and dumplings. L D $$
Haute Dogs
2910 N. Sycamore St., 703-548-3891, hautedogs andfries.com. Cookout fare goes gourmet with hot dog toppings ranging from banh mi with sriracha mayo to a buffalo dog with blue cheese. L D $
Hawkers Asian Street Food
4201 Wilson Blvd., 703-828-8287, eathawkers. com. Dig into hot chicken, pork belly bao and other Asian street foods, plus sake, whiskey and zeroproof quaffs. G V L D $$
Heidelberg Pastry Shoppe s
2150 N. Culpeper St., 703-527-8394, heidelberg bakery.com. A local favorite for baked goods and Old Country specialties such as bratwurst and German potato salad. Closed Mondays. B L $ Highline RxR
2010-A Crystal Drive, 703-413-2337, highlinerxr. com. A Crystal City bar offering draft beers, draft wines, a whiskey menu and a retractable wall that opens up in nice weather. O L D A $$
Hot Lola’s
4238 Wilson Blvd. (Ballston Quarter), 1501 Wilson Blvd. (Rosslyn), hotlolas.com. It’s all about Kevin Tien’s Nashville-meets-Sichuan hot chicken sandwiches. L D $
Hyde Social
3100 Clarendon Blvd., 703-647-9342, hyde-social. com. Meet up for poke towers, fancy pub fare and quenchers like the Ube Spice (mezcal, tequila, agave, lime, ube, gochujang flakes, lava salt).
R L D A G V $$
Idido’s Coffee & Social House
1107 S. Walter Reed Drive, 703-253-1576, ididos socialhouse.com. Devotees go for the pastries, sandwiches and Ethiopian coffee. B L V $
Immigrant Food
4245 N. Fairfax Drive, 703-203-0337, immigrant food.com. Global dishes from this “gastroadvocacy” kitchen range from Salvadoran pupusas to Filipino fried chicken. O R L D G V $$
Inca Social 1776 Wilson Blvd., 703-488-7640, incasocial.com. Empanadas, saltados, ceviche, sushi and pisco sours round out the menu at this Peruvian cousin to the original in Dunn Loring. R L D G V $$ Ireland’s Four Courts 2051 Wilson Blvd., 703-525-3600, irelandsfour courts.com. Stop in for a pint and an EPL game over an order of fish and chips. C R L D A $$
Istanbul Grill
4617 Wilson Blvd., 571-970-5828, istanbulgrill virginia.com. Feast on Turkish meze and kebabs at this homey spot in Bluemont. L D V $$
The Italian Store s
3123 Langston Blvd., 703-528-6266; 5837 Washington Blvd., 571-341-1080; italianstore.com. A favorite for pizzas, sandwiches, prepared entrées, espresso and gelato. O L D G V $
Jon’s Joint
250 N. Glebe Road, 202-384-4954. Order halal smashburgers topped with cheese, grilled onions and pickled jalapeños. L D $
Kabob Palace
2315 S. Eads St., 703-486-3535, kabobpalaceusa. com. Open 24 hours, this Crystal City storefront serves grilled halal meats, pillowy naan and savory sides. L D A G V $$
Kaldi’s Social House
3100 10th St. N.; 3639 S. Glebe Road; 571-2131502, kaldissocialhouse.net. The National Landing location serves a full dinner menu in addition to espresso drinks and brunch. Try a burger with red onion jam, Gruyere and rosemary aioli, or a matcha beet salad with pecans. B R L D G V $$
Kanji Izakaya
4301 Fairfax Drive, 703-512-0017, kanjiarlington. com. Dive into teriyaki, ramen, yakitori, hibachi dishes and sushi. L D G $$
Khun Yai Thai
2509 N. Harrison St., 703-536-1643, khunyaithai va.com. The family-owned restaurant serves “homestyle Thai” cuisine. L D G V $$
King of Koshary
5515 Wilson Blvd., 571-317-7925, kingofkoshary. com. Washington Post critic Tim Carman dubbed its menu “Egyptian food fit for royalty.” Order the hearty namesake dish, grilled branzino, beef kofta, roasted chicken or any of the tagines (stews). L D G $$
Kusshi
1201 S. Joyce St., 571-777-1998, kusshisushi. com. Feast your way through shishito peppers, sushi, oysters and mochi. O L D G V $$$
L.A. Bar & Grill
2530 Columbia Pike, 703-685-1560, labargrill.com. Regulars flock to this dive bar on the Pike (L.A. stands for Lower Arlington) for cold brews and pub fare. D A $$
La Coop Coffee
4807 First St. N., 571-257-7972, lacoopcoffee. com. Stop in for single-origin Guatemalan coffee, house-made horchata, breakfast sammies, empanadas and ice cream. B L $
La Côte D’Or Café
6876 Langston Blvd., 703-538-3033, lcd6876va. com. This little French bistro serves standards like crepes and steak frites. O R L D G V $$$
Lantern Restaurant and Bar
320 23rd St., S., 571-800-6137, lanternrestaurant andbar.com. Order crispy fish with sweet and sour sauce, orange chicken or beef with broccoli. Consider reserving a private karaoke room. L D G V $$
La Posada
320 23rd St., S., 703-412-9211, laposadarestaurant. com. Say “olé” to flautas, poblano beef ribs, shrimp saltado, agua fresca and horchata. C L D V $$
Lapu Lapu
1417 S. Fern St., 703-567-4014, lapulapubreak fast.com. Filipino breakfast sandwiches stuffed with everything from chorizo and ribeye to bacon and eggs are served on pan de sal buns from sister bakery Gwenie’s Pastries. B R L D V $
Láylí
3033 Wilson Blvd., 703-512-3094, layligarden.com. Taste the flavors of Lebanon, Turkey and Greece in dishes such as beef tenderloin shawarma and hummus with duck confit. O R L D $$$
Lebanese Taverna
5900 Washington Blvd., 703-241-8681; 1101 S. Joyce St., Pentagon Row, 703-415-8681; lebanese taverna.com. A hometown favorite for shawarma, kebabs, flatbreads and more. O C L D G V $$
The Liberty Tavern 3195 Wilson Blvd., 703-465-9360, thelibertytavern. com. This Clarendon anchor offers a spirited bar and creative cuisine fueled by two wood-burning ovens. O C R L D A G V $$$
Grazie Grazie
Livin’ the Pie Life
2166 N. Glebe Road, 571-431-7727, livinthepielife. com. The wildly popular pie shop and bakery started as an Arlington farmers market stand. B L V $$
Locket
1900 Fort Myer Drive, 703-682-8233, locket rosslyn.com. Tucked inside the Hilton Arlington Rosslyn The Key, this all-day restaurant hits the spot with raw bar, steakhouse-style favorites and brunch. C B R L D G V $$$
Lost Dog Café
5876 Washington Blvd., 703-237-1552; 2920 Columbia Pike, 703-553-7770; lostdogcafe.com. Known for its pizzas, subs and beer selection, this deli/café supports pet adoption through the Lost Dog and Cat Rescue Foundation. L D G V $$
Lucky Danger
1101 S. Joyce St., Unit B27, luckydanger.co. Chefs
Tim Ma and Andrew Chiou put a fresh spin on Chinese American takeout with dishes such as duck fried rice and lo mein. L D V $$
Lyon Hall s
3100 N. Washington Blvd., 703-741-7636, lyonhall arlington.com. The European-style brasserie turns out French, German and Alsatian-inspired plates, from charcuterie and sausages to moules frites.
O C R L D A V $$$
Mae’s Market and Café
1450 S. Eads St., maesmarketandcafe.com.
Scratch-made baked goods, salads, gourmet sandwiches, espresso drinks, cheese and wine round out the offerings o B R L D V $$
Maison Cheryl
2900 Wilson Blvd., 703-664-0509, maisoncheryl. com. Seared duck breast, steak frites and madeleines are among the offerings at this French American bistro. R L D V $$$
Makers Union
1450 S. Eads St., 703-419-3504, makersunionpub. com. Pop in for comfort food (mac ’n’ cheese, Nashville hot chicken, steak frites), creative cocktails and live music several nights a week. R L D G V $$
Mala Tang
3434 Washington Blvd., 703-243-2381, mala-tang. com. A fragrant eatery specializing in Sichuan hot pot, dry pot and Chinese street foods. O L D G V $$
Mario’s Pizza House
3322 Wilson Blvd., 703-525-0222, mariospizza housemenu.com. Open into the wee hours, it’s been cooking up subs, wings and pizza since 1957. O C B L D A $
Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls
4017 Campbell Ave., 571-431-6530, masons lobster.com. Order lobster rolls your way (butter or mayo) at this Shirlington outpost of the Annapolisbased seafood chainlet. L D $$
Maya Bistro
5649 Langston Blvd., 703-533-7800, bistromaya. com. The family-owned restaurant serves Turkish and Mediterranean comfort food. L D V $$
McNamara’s Pub & Restaurant
567 23rd St. S., 703-302-3760, mcnamaraspub. com. Order a Guinness and some corned beef or fish and chips at this friendly watering hole on Crystal City’s restaurant row. O R L D A $$
Meda Coffee & Kitchen
5037 Columbia Pike, 571-312-0599, medacoffee kitchen.com. A casual café serving coffee, baked goods and traditional Ethiopian dishes like kitfo and tibs. C B L D G V $$
Me Jana
2300 Wilson Blvd., 703-465-4440, mejanarestau rant.com. Named for an old Lebanese folk ballad, this Middle Eastern eatery offers prime peoplewatching in Clarendon. O C L D G V $$
Mele Bistro
1723 Wilson Blvd., 703-522-0284, melebistro.com. This farm-to-table Mediterranean restaurant cooks with fresh, organic, free-range, regionally sourced, non-GMO ingredients. O R L D G V $$
Metro 29 Diner
4711 Langston Blvd., 703-528-2464, metro29. com. Classic diner fare includes triple-decker sandwiches, mile-high desserts, burgers, roasted chicken and breakfast. C B R L D V $
Mexicali Blues
2933 Wilson Blvd., 703-812-9352, mexicali-blues. com. This colorful landmark dishes out Salvadoran and Mexican chow. O C R L D G V $$
Mister Days Sport Rock Café
1101 N. Highland St., 703-986-3335, misterdays usa.com. The beloved Clarendon sports bar has plenty of happy hour deals and bar munchies for game-watching. R D A $
Moby Dick House of Kabob 3000 Washington Blvd., 703-465-1600; 4037 Campbell Ave., 571-257-8214; mobyskabob.com. Satisfy that hankering for Persian skewers and flavorful sides. L D $$
Mpanadas
2602 Columbia Pike, 571-312-0182, mpanadas usa.com. Try barbecue pork and cheeseburger empanadas, birthday cake paletas and java chip macaroons. B L D $
Mussel Bar & Grille
800 N. Glebe Road, 703-841-2337, musselbar. com. Chef Robert Wiedmaier’s menu centers on mussels, frites, wood-fired pizza and more than 100 Belgian and craft beers. O L D $$
Nam-Viet
1127 N. Hudson St., 703-522-7110, namvietva.com. The venerable restaurant in what was once Arlington’s “Little Saigon” neighborhood specializes in flavors of Vietnam’s Can Tho region. O L D V $$
Nettie’s Tavern
2854 Wilson Blvd., 571-867-9132, nettiestavern. com. Italy meets Appalachia in bites such as pepperoni rolls, venison meatballs and tiramisu French toast. Sip a Nettie’s Tea made with moonshine, crushed lemon and mint syrup. O R L D A V $$
Nighthawk Pizza
1201 S. Joyce St., nighthawkpizza.com. Visit this Westpost brewpub and sports bar for personal pizzas (both thick and thin crust), beer and smashburgers. L D V $$
NiHao
1550 Crystal Drive, 703-512-4109, nihaoarlington. com. Sichuan small plates by chef Peter Chang include walnut shrimp, spicy dry-fried eggplant, and pork ribs with fries. Enjoy cocktails made with baijiu, a Chinese liquor, or tea-infused whiskey. O L D G V $$
Noonchi
1201 S. Joyce St., 571-451-7030, @noonchipocha. Visit Scott Chung’s Korean street food and soju bar for bulgogi, kimchi fried rice and kimbap. L D G $
Northside Social Coffee & Wine s 3211 Wilson Blvd., 703-465-0145, northsidesocial va.com. Tucked inside a red house on the edge of Clarendon, the two-story coffee and wine bar with a big patio is always busy...which tells you something. O B L D V $$
Oasis: The Listening Bar
2940 Clarendon Blvd., 703-512-3068, oasisthe listeningbar.com. From the owners of Sisters Thai, a sushi, cocktail and vinyl record bar with a surfer vibe. L D $$
Ocean Shack
2163 N. Glebe Road, 703-488-7161, oceanshack arlington.com. Dig into a seafood boil, a fried oyster basket or an order of fish tacos and pretend you’re at the beach. R L D A $$
Oh K-Dog
4238 Wilson Blvd. (Ballston Quarter), 703-5673376, ohkdog.com. Try a fried Korean rice dog with add-ins like sweet potato, cheddar or squid ink. L D $
Old Dominion Pizza Co.
4514 Langston Blvd., 703-718-6372, olddominion pizza.com. Order thin crust or “grandma style” pies named after local high school mascots. L D G $
■ places to eat
Open Road
1201 Wilson Blvd., 703-248-0760, openroadgrill. com. A solid pick for burgers and beers or a proper entrée and a craft cocktail. O L D $$
Origin Coffee Lab & Kitchen
1101 S. Joyce St., 703-567-7295, origincoffeeco. com. The industrial-chic coffee shop roasts its own beans and serves all-day breakfast, bar munchies and dinner plates. O B R L D V $$ O’Sullivan’s Irish Pub
3207 Washington Blvd., 703-812-0939, osullivans irishpub.com. You’ll find owner and County Kerry native Karen O’Sullivan behind the bar, pouring pints and cracking jokes. L D A $$
Our Mom Eugenia
4044 Campbell Ave., 571-970-0468, ourmom eugenia.com. This family-owned spot is beloved for its real-deal Greek fare, from saganaki to souvlaki. O L D $$
Padaek
2931 S. Glebe Road, 703-888-2890, padaekdc. com. Chef Seng Luangrath’s kitchen in Arlington Ridge turns out Lao, Thai and Burmese fare—satay, curries and noodle dishes. O L D G V $$ Palette 22
4053 Campbell Ave., 703-746-9007, palette22.com. The Shirlington gallery-café specializes in international small plates and is a hoppin’ brunch spot. O R L D V $$
Peking Pavilion
2912 N. Sycamore St., 703-237-6868, peking pavilionva.com. This family-owned restaurant serves standbys such as moo shu pork and beef with broccoli. L D $$
Peruvian Brothers
1450 S. Eads St., 703-625-6473, peruvianbroth ers.com. Dig into chicharron sandwiches, saltados, empanadas, rotisserie chicken and power bowls. L D V $
Peter Chang Arlington
2503-E N. Harrison St., 703-538-6688, peterchang arlington.com. The former Chinese Embassy chef brings his fiery and flavorful Sichuan cooking to the Lee Harrison Shopping Center. C L D $$ Pho 75 s
1721 Wilson Blvd., 703-525-7355, pho75.res taurantwebexpert.com. The piping-hot Vietnamese soup at this local institution is all about fresh ingredients. O L D V $
Pho & Banh Mi Eatery Café 3000 Washington Blvd., 703-489-8212, eatery cafeva.com. Fill up on banh mi (with tofu, grilled chicken or pork), steaming bowls of pho and poke bowls. L D G V $ PhoWheels
1731 Crystal Drive, phowheelsdc.com. The popular food truck serving Vietnamese pho and banh mi now has a kiosk at Water Park. O L D G $ Pie-tanza
2503-B N. Harrison St., 703-237-0200, pie-tanza. com. Enjoy pizza (including gluten-free options), calzones, lasagna, subs and salads. C L D G V $$ Pines of Florence
2109 N. Pollard St., 703-566-0456, pinesofflor encearlingtonva.com. The classics include linguine with pesto, veal parm and chicken cacciatore, plus housemade pizza and subs. L D V $$
Pirouette Café & Wine Shop s 4000 Fairfax Drive, pirouette.cafe. Pair your favorite vino with cheese, whole roasted fish, a pork cutlet and other enticing plates at this cafe and wine shop. L D G V $$
Poppyseed Rye
818 N. Quincy St., poppyseedrye.com. Pick up sandwiches, biscuits, salads, flower bouquets and gift items (beer and wine, too). O r L D G V $
Pupatella s 5104 Wilson Blvd.; 1621 S. Walter Reed Drive, 571-312-7230, pupatella.com. Enzo and Anastasiya Algarme’s authentic Neapolitan pies are considered among D.C.’s best. O L D V $$
Quarterdeck
1200 Fort Myer Drive, 703-528-2722, quarterdeck arlington.com. This beloved shack has served up steamed crabs for 40 years. O C L D V $$
Queen Mother’s Kitchen
1601 Crystal Drive, 703-997-8474, queenmother cooks.com. Grab a fried chicken sandwich and a side of duck fat fries. O L D $ Quincy Hall
4001 Fairfax Drive, 703-567-4098, quincyhallbar. com. Go for pints, meatballs and New York-style pizza at this spacious beer hall in Ballston. L D $ Quinn’s on the Corner
1776 Wilson Blvd., 703-640-3566, quinnsonthe corner.com. Irish and Belgian favorites such as mussels, steak frites, and bangers and mash, plus draft beers and a big whiskey selection. B R L D A $$
Ragtime
1345 N. Courthouse Road, 703-243-4003, ragtime restaurant.com. Savor a taste of the Big Easy in offerings such as jambalaya, catfish, spiced shrimp and oysters. There’s a waffle and omelet bar every Sunday. O R L D A V $$
Rasa
2200 Crystal Drive, 703-888-0925, rasagrill.com. Build a bowl with options like basmati rice, chicken tikka, lamb, pickled vegetables, lentils, chutneys and yogurt sauces. O L D G V $
Ravenna Pizza
1500 Wilson Blvd., 571-520-2086, ravennapizza. com. Pop in for Roman-style pizzas, focaccia sandwiches and gelato. L D V $
Ravi Kabob House
350 N. Glebe Road, 703-522-6666; 250 N. Glebe Road, 703-816-0222. Curries, kebabs and delectably spiced veggies keep this strip-mall café plenty busy. C L D V $$
The Renegade 3100 Clarendon Blvd., 703-468-4652, renegadeva.
com. Is it a coffee shop, restaurant, bar or live music venue? All of the above—with snacks ranging from lambchop lollipops to lo mein. B L D A $$
Rhodeside Grill
1836 Wilson Blvd., 703-243-0145, rhodeside grill.com. Find chops, meatloaf, burgers and po’boys accompanied by every kind of hot sauce imaginable. O C R L D A V $$
Rien Tong Asian Bistro
3131 Wilson Blvd., 703-243-8388, rientong.com. The large menu includes Thai and Chinese standards, plus sushi. L D V $$
Rocklands Barbeque and Grilling Co. 3471 Washington Blvd., 703-528-9663, rocklands. com. Owner John Snedden has been slow-cooking barbecue at this Arlington favorite since 1990.
O C L D G V $
Roggenart Bakery, Bistro & Café
4401 Wilson Blvd., 703-721-3182, roggenart.com. Stop in for breakfast, coffee, pastries and sandwiches on house-baked bread. B R L D V $$
Rooftop Recess
2424 Wilson Blvd., 757-807-2233, rooftoprecess. com. Grab a seat on the roof deck to enjoy seasonal fare and refreshing cocktails O C R L D V $$
Ruffino’s Spaghetti House
4763 Langston Blvd., 703-528-2242, ruffino spaghetti.com. Fill up on classics such as veal Parmigiana and chicken piccata. C L D V $$
RusUz
1000 N. Randolph St., 571-312-4086, rusuz.com. The family-run bistro serves hearty Russian and Uzbek dishes such as borscht, beef stroganoff and plov—a rice pilaf with lamb. L D $$
Ruthie’s All-Day s
3411 Fifth St. S., 703-888-2841, ruthiesallday. com. Chef Matt Hill’s acclaimed “meat and three” serves up wood-smoked proteins with creative
Astro Beer Hall
sides. Breakfast (with house-made biscuits) offered daily. O B R L D G V $$
Ryu Izakaya
3030 Columbia Pike, 703-399-9052, ryuizakayava. com. A spot on the Pike for sushi, sake and yakitori. L D G $$
Sabores Tapas Bar
2401 Columbia Pike, 571-970-1253, saboresva. com. Dine on ceviche, lomo saltado and classic gambas al ajillo at this tapas bar on the Pike. R L D G V $$
Saigon Noodles & Grill
1800 Wilson Blvd., 703-566-5940, saigonnoodles grill.com. Traditional Vietnamese pho, banh mi and noodle dishes round out the offerings at this restaurant and takeout. L D $$
Sakaki Izakaya
3227 Washington Blvd., 703-718-4931, sakakiizakaya.com. Try mini “sushi burgers,” Wagyu fried rice and the dazzling Egg on Egg dish (king salmon, quail egg, ikura and wasabi soy in a smoking bowl). Closed Tuesdays. L D A G $$
Salt s
1201 Wilson Blvd., 703-875-0491, saltrosslyn.com. The speakeasy-style cocktail bar serves cheese plates and carpaccio alongside sazeracs, old-fashioneds and nouveau craft cocktails. D $$
The Salt Line 4040 Wilson Blvd., 703-566-2075, thesaltline. com. Hit this seafood-centric oyster bar for clam chowder, lobster rolls, stuffies, smashburgers and fun cocktails. c O R D $$$
Samuel Beckett’s Irish Gastro Pub
2800 S. Randolph St., 703-379-0122, samuel becketts.com. A modern Irish pub serving Emerald Isle recipes. O C R L D A G V $$
Santé
1250 S. Hayes St. (inside the Ritz-Carlton), 703412-2762, meetatsante.com. Mediterranean fare includes shrimp saganaki, whole roasted branzino and lamb “osso bucco.” B R L D G V $$$
Sawatdee Thai Restaurant
2250 Clarendon Blvd., 703-243-8181, sawatdeeva. com. The friendly eatery (its name means “hello”) is frequented by folks craving pad thai or pad prik king. L D V $$
Screwtop Wine Bar and Cheese Shop
1025 N. Fillmore St., 703-888-0845, screwtop winebar.com. The congenial wine bar and bottle shop offers tastings, wine classes, and small plates for sharing and pairing. O C R L D G V $$
Seamore’s
2815 Clarendon Blvd., 703-721-3384, seamores. com. Dine on sustainably sourced seafood, from clams and mussels to arctic char and yellowfin tuna. Brunch on weekends. O R L D G V $$$
Seoulspice
1735 N. Lynn St., 703-419-5868, seoulspice.com. Korean fast-casual comfort food, anyone? L D G V $
SER
1110 N. Glebe Road, 703-746-9822, serrestau rant.com. Traditional Spanish and Basque dishes in a colorful, friendly space with outstanding service.
O R L D V $$$
Sfoglina Pasta House
1100 Wilson Blvd., sfoglinapasta.com/rosslyn. Fabio Trabocchi’s urbane trattoria serves housemade pasta (you can watch it being made), a “mozzarella bar” and Italian cocktails. Closed Sundays.
O L D V $$$
Silver Diner
4400 Wilson Blvd., 703-812-8600, silverdiner. com. The kitchen cooks with organic ingredients, many of which are sourced from local suppliers. Low-calorie and gluten-free menu choices are available. O C B R L D A G V $$
The Simple Greek 1731 Wilson Blvd., 703-875-1800, thesimplegreek. com. Find gyros, spanakopita, dolmades and other Greek favorites at this café and catering operation in Colonial Village. O C B L D V $
Simply Banh Mi
801 N. Quincy St., simplybahnmi.com. In addition to its namesake sandwich, the cult-status takeout that originated in Georgetown serves pho and build-yourown rice and vermicelli noodle bowls. L D $
Skydome
300 Army Navy Drive, 703-416-3862. Savor craft cocktails, Mediterranean dishes and views of the D.C. skyline in this revolving hotel restaurant. Closed Sunday and Monday. D G V $$$
Sloppy Mama’s Barbeque
5731 Langston Blvd., 703-269-2718, sloppyma mas.com. Joe and Mandy Neuman’s barbecue joint offers wood-smoked meats galore, plus pimento cheese, hearty sides and banana pudding for dessert. O B R L D V $$
Smokecraft Modern Barbecue
1051 N. Highland St., 571-312-8791, smokecraft bbq.com. Every menu item here is kissed by smoke, from ribs, crabcakes and spaghetti squash to the chocolate cherry bread pudding on the dessert list. O L D G V $$
Snouts & Stouts
2709 S. Oakland St., 571-317-2239, snouts nstouts.com. Grab a beer and some pulled-pork pretzel bites with beer cheese while your pup runs around this indoor dog park and bar. L D $
Soul Thai Kitchen & Bar
6035 Wilson Blvd., 703-300-9655, soulthaikitchen andbar.com. Find curries, noodle dishes and other Thai classics. L D G V $
Spice Kraft Indian Bistro
1135 N. Highland St., 703-527-5666, spicekraft va.com. This contemporary concept by restaurateurs Anthony Sankar and Premnath Durairaj gives Indian classics a modern spin. O L D $$
Spider Kelly’s
3181 Wilson Blvd., 703-312-8888, spiderkellys.com. The “come as you are” bar offers a sizable beer list, creative cocktails, salads, burgers, snacks and breakfast at all hours. C D A G V $$
Stellina Pizzeria
2800 S. Randolph St., 703-962-7884, stellina pizzeria.com. Pay a visit for Neapolitan pies, fried artichokes and a deli counter with house-made pastas, sauces and dolci to take home. O R L D $$
Supreme Hot Pot
2301 Columbia Pike, 571-666-1801, supremehot potva.com. This Pike eatery specializes in Szechuan hot pot, skewered meats and a few Cajun seafood dishes. D G $$
Surreal
2117 Crystal Drive, surrealpark.com. Find playful dishes like a foot-long Boomdog, “swirl” pancakes and old-fashioneds made with cornflake-infused whiskey at chef Enrique Limardo’s all-day diner in National Landing. O B L D $$
SushiJip
3000 Washington Blvd., 703-243-7799, sushijip. com. Occupying the former Endo Sushi space, it’s still a neighborhood spot for sushi, plus poke bowls, hibachi and ramen. Closed Mondays. L D G V $$
Sushi Rock
1900 Clarendon Blvd., 571-312-8027, sushirockva. com. Play a little air guitar while sampling sushi rolls and beverages named after your favorite bands, from Zeppelin to Ozzy to Oasis. D A G V $$
Sushi-Zen Japanese Restaurant s 2457 N. Harrison St., 703-534-6000, sushizen. com. An amicable, light-filled neighborhood stop for sushi, donburi, tempura and udon. C L D V $$
Sweetgreen
4075 Wilson Blvd., 703-522-2016; 3100 Clarendon Blvd., 571-290-3956; 575 12th Road S., 703-8881025; 2200 Crystal Drive, 703-685-9089; sweet green.com. Locally grown ingredients and compostable cutlery make this salad and yogurt chain a hub for the green-minded. O C L D G V $
Sweet Leaf
2200 Wilson Blvd., 703-525-5100; 800 N. Glebe Road, 703-522-5000; 650 N. Quincy St., 703-
527-0807; sweetleafcafe.com. Build your own sandwiches and salads. O C B L D $$
Taco Bamba s 4000 Wilson Blvd., 571-777-1477; 4041 Campbell Ave., 571-257-3030; tacobamba.com. Taco options range from classic carnitas to cheffy creations like the El Rico Pollo, stuffed with chicken, green chili, aji Amarillo aioli and crispy potato. B L D V $
Taco Rock
1501 Wilson Blvd., 571-775-1800, thetacorock. com. This rock-themed watering hole keeps the Micheladas flowing alongside tacos on housemade blue-corn tortillas. B L D V $$
Taqueria el Poblano
2503-A N. Harrison St., 703-237-8250, taqueria poblano.com. Fresh guacamole, fish tacos, margaritas and mole verde transport patrons to the Yucatan. C L D G V $$
Taqueria Xochi
1450 S. Eads St., 571-444-6722, taqueriaxochi. com. Beef birria tacos, crispy stuff mulitas and other Mexican street foods. D A V $$
Tatte Bakery and Café
2805 Clarendon Blvd., 571-312-8691; 269 19th Court S., 571-357-1470; tattebakery.com. Breakfast sandwiches, tartines, panini, grain bowls, coffee and pastries. O B R L D G V $
Ted’s Bulletin & Sidekick Bakery
4238 Wilson Blvd. #1130 (Ballston Quarter), 703848-7580, tedsbulletin.com. Retro comfort food and all-day breakfast with a tantalizing bakery next door. C B R L D G V $$
Texas Jack’s Barbecue
2761 Washington Blvd., 703-875-0477, txjacks.com. Brisket, ribs and pulled pork, plus sides like raw carrot salad and smashed cucumbers. O L D A $$
T.H.A.I. in Shirlington
4209 Campbell Ave., 703-931-3203, thaiinshirling ton.com. Pretty dishes include lemongrass salmon with black sticky rice. O L D G V $$$
■ places to eat
Thai Noy
5880 Washington Blvd., 703-534-7474, thainoy.com. Shimmering tapestries and golden Buddhas are the backdrop in this destination for Thai noodles, curries and rice dishes. L D $$
Thai Square
3217 Columbia Pike, 703-685-7040, thaisquarerestaurant.com. Enjoy options ranging from crispy squid with basil and roasted duck curry to pig knuckle stew. O L D G V $$ Tiger Dumplings
3225 Washington Blvd., 571-970-4512, tiger dumplings.com. There are dumplings, of course, plus five-spice beef, roast duck and vegan options like tofu skin with peanuts. L D G V $$ Timber Pizza
4238 Wilson Blvd. (Ballston Quarter), 703-5676463, timberpizza.com. Popular pies include the Green Monster (pesto, feta, zucchini, kale) and the Worthy (chicken, barbecue sauce, red onions, apples and cilantro). L D V $$ TNR Cafe
2049 Wilson Blvd., 571-217-0766, tnrcafe.com. When you have a hankering for Peking duck, moo shu chicken, Szechuan beef or bubble tea. L D G V $$
Toby’s Homemade Ice Cream
5849-A Washington Blvd., 703-536-7000; 510 14th St. S.; tobysicecream.com. Stop in for cups, cones, floats and sundaes. Coffee, pastries and bagels available in the morning. B L D V $ Tortas Y Tacos La Chiquita
2911 Columbia Pike, 571-970-2824; 3811 Fairfax Drive, 703-512-4137; tortasytacoslachiquitadmv. com. The beloved eatery that started as a food truck does tacos, alambres, huarache platters, flautas and more. B L D A $
Trade Roots
5852 Washington Blvd., 571-335-4274, fairtrade roots.com. The Westover gift shop and cafe serves fair-trade coffee, tea, pastries, salads, organic wine and snackable small plates. O B L $
Troy’s Italian Kitchen
2710 Washington Blvd., 703-528-2828, troysitalian kitchen.com. Palak and Neel Vaidya’s mom-andpop serves pizza, pasta and calzones, including a lengthy vegan menu with options like “chicken” tikka masala pizza. L D G V $
True Food Kitchen s
4238 Wilson Blvd. (Ballston Quarter), 703-5270930, truefoodkitchen.com. Emphasizing “anti-inflammatory” fare, the menu will convince you that healthy tastes good. O L D G V $$
Tupelo Honey Café 1616 N. Troy St., 703-253-8140, tupelohoneycafe. com. The Southern fusion menu includes dishes like roasted snapper with sweet potato and farro. C R L D $$
Upside on Moore
1700 N. Moore St., upsideonmoore.com. This food hall above the Rosslyn metro includes DMV concepts Ghostburger, Stellina Pizzeria, Lucky Danger, Little Tiger Dumplings and a rotating roster of pop-ups. L D G V $$
Urban Tandoor
801 N. Quincy St., 703-567-1432, utandoorva.com. Sate your appetite with Indian and Nepalese fare, from tandoori lamb to Himalayan momos (dumplings). Lunch buffet daily. L D V $$
Variedades Catrachas Restaurant
3709 Columbia Pike, 703-888-0906, variedades catrachas.com. This homey Honduran eatery is open almost round the clock. B L D A G V $ Wagamama
2950 Clarendon Blvd., 571-901-9242, waga mama.us. Feast on ramen, teppanyaki, rice bowls, bao buns, boba tea and sake cocktails.
O L D G V $$
Water Bar
1601 Crystal Drive, nlwaterbar.com. The succinct menu at this sleek oyster and cocktail bar overlooking National Landing’s Water Park includes sal-
ads, sandwiches and sharable seafood dishes. O L D G V $$
Weenie Beenie
2680 Shirlington Road, 703-671-6661, weenie beenie.net. The hot dog stand founded in 1954 is still serving half smokes, bologna-and-egg sandwiches and pancakes. B L D $
Westover Market & Beer Garden
5863 N. Washington Blvd., 703-536-5040, westo vermarketbeergarden.com. It’s a hive for burgers, draft microbrews and live music. O C L D A $$
Westover Taco
5849 Washington Blvd., 703-297-3030, westover taco.com. Tacos, guac, margs and beer keep things casual at this neighborhood hangout. L D V A $
Westville
2800 Clarendon Blvd., 703-646-7226, westvillenyc. com. The veg-forward concept out of New York City emphasizes locally sourced ingredients and buildyour-own dishes, plus cocktails. O B L D G V $$
Whino
4238 Wilson Blvd., 571-290-3958, whinova.com. Part restaurant/bar and part art gallery, this vibey spot features cocktails, shareable plates, brunch, and “low brow” art exhibits. R L D A $$
William Jeffrey’s Tavern
2301 Columbia Pike, 703-746-6333, william jeffreystavern.com. The pub on the Pike features Prohibition-era wall murals and mixes a mean martini. O C R L D A G V $$
Wilson Hardware
2915 Wilson Blvd., 703-527-4200, wilson hardwareva.com. Hit the pretty patio or roof deck for boozy slushies and small plates. O R L D A G V $$$
Wiseguy Pizza
1735 N. Lynn St., 703-358-8880; 710 12th St. S., 703-334-9885, wiseguypizza.com. Grab Sicilian and New York-style pies ranging from classic pepperoni to Korean chicken with cabbage. L D G V $ Wonder
1771 N. Pierce St.,wonder.com. Rosslyn’s newest food hall brings fast-casual menus by star chefs ranging from Bobby Flay to Marcus Samuelsson. L D G V $$
Yayla Bistro
2201 N. Westmoreland St., 703-533-5600, yayla bistro.com. A cozy little spot for Turkish small plates, flatbreads and seafood. Pita wraps available for lunch only. O C L D $$
Yume Sushi
2121 N. Westmoreland St., 703-269-5064, yume sushiva.com. East Falls Church has a destination for sushi, omakase and a sake bar with craft cocktails. L D V G $$$
Yunnan by Potomac
721 15th St., S., 571-699-3935, yunnanby potomac.com. Try mixian rice noodles in chicken bone broth, xiaochi (small plates) and multiple kinds of bao buns. O R L D $$
Yu Noodles
1515 Wilson Blvd., 703-718-4928, yunoodles arlington.com. Noodles, dumplings, rice dishes and dim sum round out the offerings at this Rosslyn takeout. L D $
FALLS CHURCH
2941 Restaurant
2941 Fairview Park Drive, 703-270-1500, 2941. com. French chef Bertrand Chemel’s sanctuary-like spot offers beautifully composed seasonal dishes and expert wine pairings. C L D V $$$$
Al Jazeera
3813-D S. George Mason Drive, 703-379-2733. The top seller at this Yemeni cafe is oven-roasted lamb with yellow rice. L D $$
Alta Strada
2911 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 703-2800000, altastrada.com. Chef Michael Schlow’s
menu includes house-made pastas, pizza and modern Italian small plates. R L D $$$
Anthony’s Restaurant
3000 Annandale Road, 703-532-0100, anthonys restaurantva.com. The family-owned diner serves standbys like spaghetti, pizza, gyros and subs, plus breakfast on weekends. R L D V $$
B Side
8298 Glass Alley (Mosaic District), 703-676-3550, bsidecuts.com. Nathan Anda’s charcuterie, smashburgers and beef-fat fries steal the show at this cozy bar. L D $$
Badd Pizza
346 W. Broad St., 703-237-2233, baddpizza.com. Order a Buffalo-style “cup-and-char” pepperoni pie and a “baddbeer” IPA, locally brewed by Lost Rhino Brewing Co. L D $$
Bakeshop
100 E. Fairfax St., 703-533-0002, bakeshopva.com. See Arlington listing. B V $
Balqees Restaurant
5820 Seminary Road, 703-379-0188, balqeesres taurant.com. Lebanese and Yemeni specialties include lamb in saffron rice, saltah (a vegetarian stew) and saffron cake with crème anglaise. O L D V $$
Bamian
5634 Leesburg Pike, 703-820-7880, bamianres taurant.com. Try Afghan standards like palau (seasoned lamb with saffron rice) and aushak (scallion dumpling topped with yogurt, meat sauce and mint). C L D V $$
Bartaco
2920 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 571-549-8226, bartaco.com. A lively spot for tacos (13 kinds) and tequila. Feels like vacation. L D V A $$
Caboose Commons
2918 Eskridge Road (Mosaic District), 703-6638833, caboosebrewing.com. The microbrewery has a hopping patio, house brews and creative eats, from fried pickles to plant-based buddha bowls.
O L D V A $$
Café Kindred
450 N. Washington St., 571-327-2215, cafe kindred.com. Pop in for a yogurt parfait, avocado toast, grilled eggplant sandwich, or an espresso fizz. B R L V $$
Cafe Zevian
700 W. Broad St.,703-712-7012, cafezevian.com. Savor Turkish, Greek and Lebanese influences in hot and cold mezze, grilled seafood, veal and lamb doner kebab and baklava. O B R L D G V $$
Casa Mariachi
133 E. Annandale Road, casamariachirestaurante. com. All the Tex-Mex favorites—tacos, burritos, fajitas, saltado, guac and margs. B L D $$
Celebrity Delly s
7263-A Arlington Blvd., 703-573-9002, celebrity deliva.com. Matzo-ball soup, massive corned beef sandwiches and tuna melts satisfy at this New York-style deli founded in 1975. Brunch served all day Saturday and Sunday. C B L D G V $
Chasin’ Tails
944 W. Broad St., 571-777-9596, chasintailsss. com. The Viet-Cajun menu includes crawfish boils, char-broiled kimchi oysters and scallop crudo with citrus vinaigrette. L D $$
Chay Restaurant
6531 Columbia Pike, 571-378-1771, chayrestau rant.com. A destination for vegetarian hot pot, spring rolls, noodles and other plant-based Vietnamese specialties. L D G V $
Clare & Don’s Beach Shack
130 N. Washington St., 703-532-9283, clareand dons.com. Go coastal with fish tacos, margs and live outdoor music. O C L D A G V $$
Colada Shop
2920 District Ave., 703-962-3002, coladashop. com. See Arlington listing. O B R L D V $$
District Dumplings
2985 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 703-884-7080,
districtdumplings.com. See Arlington listing. L D $$
District Taco 5275-C Leesburg Pike, 571-699-0660, district taco.com. See Arlington listing. C B L D G V $
Dogwood Tavern
132 W. Broad St., 703-237-8333, dogwoodtav ern.com. The menu has something for everyone, from jambalaya and burgers to coconut-curry salmon. O C R L D A V $$
Dolan Uyghur
400 S. Maple Ave., 833-693-6526, dolanuyghur. com. Order noodles, kebabs and Uyghur and Dolan specialties such as steamed dumplings stuffed with pumpkin and peppers. O B R L D G V $$
Dominion Wine & Beer
107 Rowell Court, 703-533-3030, dominionwine andbeer.com. Pairings come easy when a café shares its space with a wine and beer shop. Order up a plate of sliders, a cheese board or some Dragon shrimp to snack on while you imbibe. O R L D V $$
Duangrat’s
5878 Leesburg Pike, 703-820-5775, duangrats. com. Servers in traditional silk dresses glide through the dining room bearing fragrant curries and grilled meats at this revered destination for Thai cuisine. O R L D V $$
El Tio Tex-Mex Grill
7630 Lee Highway, 703-204-0233, eltiogrill.com. A family-friendly spot for fajitas, enchiladas, lomo saltado, combo plates and margaritas. O L D $$
Elephant Jumps Thai Restaurant 8110-A Arlington Blvd., 703-942-6600, elephant jumps.com. Creative and comforting Thai food in an intimate strip-mall storefront. L D G V $$
Elevation Burger
442 S. Washington St., 703-237-4343, elevation burger.com. See Arlington listing. O L D V $
Ellie Bird s
125 Founders Ave., 703-454-8894, elliebirdva. com. Discover the wonders of chef Yuan Tang’s seasonal, globally-inspired cooking at this awardwinning Little City gem. c o R D G V $$$
The Falls Restaurant & Bar
370 W. Broad St., 703-237-8227, thefallsva.com. Dig into crabcakes, brisket and fish stew, or build your own “blue plate” of creatively delicious sides. O R L D G V $$$
Fava Pot
7393 Lee Highway, 703-204-0609, favapot.com. The Egyptian eats include stewed fava beans with yogurt and lamb shanks with okra. And oh the bread! B L D G V $$
First Watch
5880 Leesburg Pike, 571-977-1096, firstwatch. com. A breakfast and lunch destination for eggs Benedict, lemon-ricotta pancakes, power bowls and avocado toast. O C B R L V $$
Flame Japanese Hibachi
6379 Seven Corners Center, 571-480-5161, flamejapanesehibachi.com. Get fired up for grilled beef, chicken, salmon and tofu, plus sushi, bubble tea and cheesecake smoothies. L D $$
Godfrey’s Bakery & Café
421 W. Broad St., 571-378-1144, godfreysbakery cafe.com. Pop in for pastries, grazing boards, Roman-style pizza and coffee drinks. B R L D V $$
GrillMarX Steakhouse and Raw Bar
510 S. Washington St., 240-261-7762, gmxfalls church.com. Splurge on prime rib or boneless ribeye with all the sides, plus desserts such as classic cheesecake or a hot fudge sundae. L D G $$$$
Haandi Indian Cuisine
1222 W. Broad St., 703-533-3501, haandi.com. The perfumed kebabs, curries and biryani incorporate northern and southern Indian flavors. L D V G $$ Harvey’s 513 W. Broad St., 540-268-6100, harveysva.com.
Chef Thomas Harvey’s casual café does roasted
chicken, cheesesteaks, banana splits and other comfort fare with flair. O C B R L D V $$
Hi/Fi Tex-Mex BBQ
8298 Glass Alley, 703-676-3550, hifitexmexbbq. com. Smoked meats, tacos, wings and tequila drinks shine at this spin-off of the original in Del Ray. R D $$
Hong Kong Palace
6387 Seven Corners Center, 703-532-0940, hong kongpalacedelivery.com. This kitchen caters to both ex-pat and American tastes with an enormous menu of options. C L D $$
Hong Kong Pearl Seafood Restaurant 6286 Arlington Blvd., 703-237-1388. Two words: dim sum. L D A V $$
Honoo Ramen Bar
165 W. Falls Station Blvd., 571-866-6540, honoo ramenbar.com. Ramen, skewers, sushi and small plates round out the menu. O L D G $$
Huong Viet 6785 Wilson Blvd., 703-538-7110. Spring rolls, roasted quail and shaky beef are faves at this cash-only Eden Center eatery. C L D G V $$
Ireland’s Four Provinces
105 W. Broad St., 703-534-8999, 4psva.com. The family-friendly tavern in the heart of Falls Church City serves pub food and Irish specialties, and hosts occasional Irish music sessions.
O C B R L D $$
Jinya Ramen Bar
2911 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 571-3272256, jinyaramenbar.com. Embellish your tonkotsu or umami-miso broth with more than a dozen toppings and add-ins. O L D A g V $$
JV’s Restaurant
6666 Arlington Blvd., 703-241-9504, jvsrestaurant. com. A dive bar (the best kind) known for its live music, cold beer and home-cooked meatloaf, lasagna and chili. L D A V $$
Koi Koi Sushi & Roll
450 W. Broad St., 703-237-0101, koikoisushi. com. The sushi is fresh and the vibe is fun. Teriyaki, tempura and bento boxes round out the menu.
O L D $$
Lantern House Viet Bistro
1067 West Broad St., 703-268-2878, lantern houseva.com. Head out for pho, noodles and banh mi at this family-owned Vietnamese eatery. L D G V $$
Lazy Mike’s Delicatessen
7049 Leesburg Pike, 703-532-5299, lazymikes deli.com. A Falls Church institution churning out homemade ice cream, packed deli sandwiches and breakfast faves. O C B R L D G V $
La Tingeria
626 S. Washington St., 571-316-6715. A popular food truck in Arlington since 2012, David Peña’s concept also has a brick-and-mortar location in Falls Church. The queso birria tacos are a must. Open Wednesday-Sunday. L D $
Little Falls Cafe
106 Little Falls St., @littlefallscafe. From the founders of Pupatella pizzeria, a charming creperie serving both sweet and savory renditions of the beloved French pancakes. O B R L V $$
Little Saigon Restaurant
6218-B Wilson Blvd., 703-536-2633, littlesaigon restaurant.us. Authentic Vietnamese in comfortable setting with captivating retro photo collages on the walls. O L D $$
Loving Hut
2842 Rogers Drive, 703-942-5622; lovinghut fallschurch.com. The Vietnamese-inspired vegan eatery offers dishes like rice vermicelli with barbecued soy protein and clay pot rice with vegan “ham.” L D G V $$
MacMillan Whisky Room
2920 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 240-9943905, themacmillan.com. Contemplate more than 200 kinds of spirits lining the bar and a menu of U.K. and American pub standards. O R L D $$
Mark’s Duck House 6184-A Arlington Blvd., 703-532-2125. Though named for its specialty—Peking duck—it also offers plenty of other tantalizing options, such as short ribs, roasted pork and dim sum.
R L D A V $$
Meaza Restaurant 5700 Columbia Pike, 703-820-2870, meazares taurant.com. Well-seasoned legumes and marinated beef served with spongy injera bread are signatures in this vivid Ethiopian banquet hall.
O C L D G V $$
Met Khao
6395 Seven Corners Center, 703-533-9480, padaekdc.com. Chef Seng Luangrath has transformed the former Padaek space into a fast-casual eatery serving Thai and Laotian fare. L D G V $
Miu Kee
6653 Arlington Blvd., 703-237-8884. Open late, this strip-mall hideaway offers Cantonese, Sichuan and Hunan dishes. L D A $$
Moby Dick House of Kabob 444 W. Broad St., 703-992-7500, mobyskabob.com. See Arlington listing. L D $$
Mom & Pop
2909 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 703-9920050, dolcezzagelato.com. The little glass cafe serves light fare, snacks, gelato, coffee, beer and wine. O B R L D A $$
MQR Cafe
6343 Columbia Pike, 571-378-1012, mqrcafe. com. Find cardamom lattes, kunafa French toast, harissa burgers and chicken shawarma sandwiches at this halal café and coffee shop.
B R L D G V $
Naja Mediterranean
2911 District Ave., 571-430-3650, najamediter ranean.com. Enjoy shawarma, falafel and other Lebanese favorites in the former Kirby Club space.
O C LD V $$
Nhu Lan Sandwich 6763 Wilson Blvd., 703-532-9009, nhulancafe. com. This tiny Vietnamese deli at Eden Center is a favorite for banh mi sandwiches. L D V $ Northside Social Falls Church s 205 Park Ave., 703-992-8650, northsidesocial va.com. Come by in the morning for breakfast and a latte. Return in the evening for wine and a plate of charcuterie, or a full dinner. O B L D V $$ Nue 944 W. Broad St., 571-777-9599, nuevietnamese. com. The Viet-modern menu (think coconut-curry risotto, crispy whole fish and dazzling cocktails) has a stunning space to match. R L D G v $$$ Open Road 8100 Lee Highway, 571-395-4400, openroadmerri field.com. See Arlington listing. O C R L D $$
The Original Pancake House
7395-M Lee Highway, 703-698-6292, ophrestau rants.com. Answer those breakfast cravings with pancakes, crepes, waffles, French toast and more. C B R G V $
Our Mom Eugenia
2985 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 434-3394019, ourmomeugenia.com. See Arlington listing. O L D $$
Panjshir Restaurant
114 E. Fairfax St., 703-536-4566, panjshirrestau rant.com. Carnivores go for the kebabs, but the vegetarian chalows elevate pumpkin, eggplant and spinach to new levels. O L D V $$
Peking Gourmet Inn
6029 Leesburg Pike, 703-671-8088, pekinggour met.com. It’s all about the crispy Peking duck at this famed institution, a destination for presidents, ambassadors and celebrities for more than three decades. C L D G V $$
Pho 88
232 W. Broad St., 703-533-8233, pho88va.com. Vietnamese pho is the main attraction, but the
■ places to eat
menu also includes other noodle and rice dishes. Closed Tuesdays. L D $$
Pho Ga Vang
6767 Wilson Blvd., 571-375-8281, phogavang. com. Find more than 12 kinds of pho, plus other Vietnamese homestyle dishes at this Eden Center café. L D G $$
Plaka Grill
1216 W. Broad St., 703-639-0161, plakagrill.com. Pop in for super satisfying Greek eats—dolmas, souvlaki, moussaka, spanakopita and roasted chicken. C L D V $$
Pop-Up District
6763 Wilson Blvd., pop-updistrict.com. Hit this Asian food hall inside the Eden Center for Thai street food, Korean bulgogi bowls, Hong Kong egg tarts, matcha drinks and late-night cocktails. L D G V A $ Preservation Biscuit
102 E. Fairfax St., 571-378-1757, preservation biscuit.com. Order the signature carb with housemade jams, or as a sandwich with fillers ranging from fried chicken to guac and egg. O C B L V $ Pupuseria La Familiar
308 S. Washington St., 703-995-2528, pupuseria lafamiliar.com. Salvadoran pupusas, fried yucca, chicharron, carne asada and horchata. L D $$
Puzukan Tan
8114 Arlington Blvd., 571-395-4727, puzukantan. com. From brothers Sam and Kibum Kim comes this Korean barbecue destination featuring dryaged meats, banchan and ramen. O L D $$$
Raaga Restaurant
5872 Leesburg Pike, 703-998-7000, raagarestau rant.com. Go out for chicken tikka, lamb rogan josh, toothsome samosas and cardamom-infused desserts. O L D G V $$
Rare Bird Coffee Roasters
230 W. Broad St., 571-314-1711, rarebirdcoffee. com. This charming Little City café roasts its own beans and makes an artful latte. The cafe space features rotating exhibits by local artists. L D $ Rasa
2905 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 571-3780670, rasa.co. See Arlington listing. L D G V $
Rice Paper/Taste of Vietnam
6775 Wilson Blvd., 703-538-3888, ricepapertasteofvietnam.com. Settle into one of the mod booths in this Eden Center mainstay for a combo platter of pork, seafood and ground beef with ricepaper wraps and fresh herbs. L D G V $$
Roll Play
944 W. Broad St., 571-777-9983, rollplaygrill. com. Grab Viet street foods such as banh mi, pho and build-your-own rice paper rolls from this fastcasual sibling of Nue and Chasin’ Tails.
L D G V $$
Semicolon Cafe
103 Founders Ave., 703-995-0970, semicoloncafe. com. Treat yourself to an egg or bulgogi sandwich on brioche and Korean shaved ice in flavors such as matcha with cheesecake or black sesame. B L $
Seoul Prime Korean Steakhouse
106 Founders Ave., 703-563-1168, seoulprime. com. The temptations here include galbi-jjim risotto with braised short ribs, Korean wheat noodles, soju cocktails and prime cuts of beef cooked on a tabletop grill. R D $$$
SeoulSpice
156 W. Falls Station Blvd., seoulspice.com. See Arlington listing. L D G V $ Settle Down Easy Brewing 2822 Fallfax Drive, 703-573-2011, settledowneasy brewing.com. Pair a pint from the rotating beer list with tacos from neighboring El Tio Tex-Mex Grill. Live music, trivia contests and open mic nights are also part of the fun. Closed Mondays. O L D $
Sfizi Café
800 W. Broad St., 703-533-1191, sfizi.com. A family-owned trattoria, deli and wine shop serving classic Italian fare—pasta, pizza, parm. L D $$
Side Chick
125 Founders Ave., Falls Church, sidechickva.com. Ellie Bird chef Yuan Tang has a side hustle specializing in fried chicken and creative sides for carryout. D $$
Silver Diner
8150 Porter Road, 703-204-0812, silverdiner.com. See Arlington listing. C B R L D A G V $$ Sisters Thai
2985 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 703-280-0429, sistersthai.com. The menu is traditionally Thai, but the vibe feels like you’re dining in your cool friend’s eclectic living room. L D G V $$
Solace Outpost s
444 W. Broad St., 571-378-1469, solaceoutpost. com. This Little City microbrewery serves housebrewed suds, plus fried chicken, five kinds of fries and wood-fired pizza. D A V $$
Spacebar
709 W. Broad St., 703-992-0777, spcbr.com. This diminutive and funky bar, a sister to Galaxy Hut in Arlington, offers 24 craft beers on tap and 18 variations on the grilled cheese sandwich. D A V $$
Sweetgreen
2905 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 703-9927892, sweetgreen.com. See Arlington listing. O C L D G V $
Sweetwater Tavern
3066 Gatehouse Plaza, 703-645-8100, great americanrestaurants.com. A modern alehouse serving seafood, chicken, ribs, microbrews and growlers to go. C L D G $$$
Taco Bamba s
2190 Pimmit Drive, 703-639-0505, tacobamba. com. Tacos range from traditional carne asada to the vegan “Iron Mike,” stuffed with cauliflower, salsa ma and mole verde. B L D $
Taco Rock
1116 W. Broad St., 703-760-3141, thetacorock. com. See Arlington listing. o B L D V $$
Taco Zocalo
6343 Columbia Pike, 571-376-3859, zocalotaco. com. Chow down on tacos, chimichangas, quesadillas and burrito bowls. O L D $
Takumi Sushi
310-B S. Washington St., 703-241-1128, takumi va.com. The sushi and sashimi in this snug little izakaya go beyond basic. Think tuna nigiri with
Italian black truffle, or salmon with mango purée. Closed Sundays and Mondays. L D V $$
Ted’s Bulletin
2911 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 571-830-6680, tedsbulletinmerrifield.com. See Arlington listing.
C B R L D $$
Thompson Italian
124 N. Washington St., 703-269-0893, thompson italian.com. Gabe and Katherine Thompson’s celebrated kitchen turns out house-made pastas, inspiring small plates and some of the best desserts around. O C D $$$
Trio Grill
8100 Lee Highway, 703-992-9200, triomerrifield. com. Treat yourself to steaks, seafood, raw bar, craft cocktails and live piano music in this handsome hideaway in Merrifield. O D $$$
True Food Kitchen s 2910 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 571-3261616, truefoodkitchen.com. See Arlington listing. O C R L D $$$
MCLEAN
Agora Tysons
7911 Westpark Drive, 703-663-8737, agoratysons. com. The Dupont Circle mezze restaurant brings its Turkish, Greek and Lebanese small plates to a second outpost in Tysons. It’s a hoppin’ spot for bottomless brunch. R L D G V $$$
Amoo’s Restaurant
6271 Old Dominion Drive, 703-448-8500, amoos restaurant.com. The flavorful kebabs and stews are crowd pleasers at this hospitable Persian establishment. O C L D G V $$
Andy’s Pizza
2001 International Drive, 3rd floor food court, Tysons, 703-775-2212, eatandyspizza.com. See Arlington listing. L D V $
Aracosia s
1381 Beverly Road, 703-269-3820, aracosia mclean.com. Fall in love with Afghan specialties such as braised lamb shank and roasted eggplant with saffron rice. O L D V $$
ArTeA
6635 Old Dominion Drive, 703-469-9898, artea mclean.com. Stop in for bubble tea, artisanal open-
Luna Hall
HALL
face sandwiches, pretty desserts or a “high tea dinner” with cocktails. Closed Mondays. R L D $$
Badd Pizza
6263 Old Dominion Drive, 703-356-2233, badd pizza.com. See Falls Church listing. L D $$
Big Buns Damn Good Burger Co. s 1340 Chain Bridge Road, 571-456-1640, eatbig buns.com. See Arlington listing. L D $$
Café Tatti French Bistro
6627 Old Dominion Drive, 703-790-5164, cafe tatti.com. Open since 1981, this romantic little bistro whips up classic French and continental fare. Closed Sundays. L D G V $$$
Call Your Mother Lil’ Deli
6216 Old Dominion Drive, 571-395-9097, callyour motherdeli.com. See Arlington listing. o b R L V $ Capri Ristorante Italiano
6825-K Redmond Drive, 703-288-4601, capri mcleanva.com. Known for tried-and-true dishes like spaghetti carbonara and veal Marsala. O C L D G V $$$
Circa
1675 Silver Hill Drive, 571-419-6272, circabistros. com. See Arlington listing. O L D V $$$
Eddie V’s Prime Seafood
7900 Tysons One Place, 703-442-4523, eddiev. com. Total steakhouse vibe, except with an emphasis on seafood (and steaks, too). L D G $$$$
Él Bebe
8354 Broad St., 571-378-0171, el-bebe.com. Spice things up with tamales, tacos, street corn, mole and tequila-based cocktails. C O L D V $$
El Tio Tex-Mex Grill
1433 Center St., 703-790-1910, eltiogrill.com. See Falls Church listing. L D $$
Esaan Tumbar
1307 Old Chain Bridge Road, 703-288-3901, esaanmclean.com. This tiny, trendy haunt specializes in northern Thai dishes—papaya salad, larb, nam tok. A good bet for those who like heat. L D $$
Fahrenheit Asian
1313 Dolley Madison Blvd., 703-646-8968, fahren heitasian.com. A destination for Sichuan noodles, dumplings, mapo tofu and cocktails such as an Asian pear mojito. Closed Sundays. L D V $$
Founding Farmers
1800 Tysons Blvd., wearefoundingfarmers.com. The spacious farm-to-table restaurant features Virginia-sourced dishes and drinks, plus grab-and-go breakfast items. B R L D $$$
Han Palace
7900 Westpark Drive, 571-378-0162, hanpalace dimsum.com. Pay a visit to this all-day dim-sum emporium for made-to-order buns, dumplings, crepes, roast duck and noodles. L D $$
J. Gilbert’s
6930 Old Dominion Drive, 703-893-1034, jgil berts.com. Everything you’d expect in a steakhouse and lots of it—prime cuts of beef, lobster, wedge salad, steak-cut fries and cheesecake. C R L D G V $$$
Joon/MayBar
8045 Leesburg Pike, 571-378-1390, eatjoon.com. Savor refined Persian dishes such as lamb-pistachio meatballs with pomegranate glaze and duck with sour-cherry rice. Hit the casual bar area for more affordably priced small plates, sandwiches and clever cocktails. O L D G V $$$$
Kazan Restaurant
6813 Redmond Drive, 703-734-1960, kazanrestau rant.com. A McLean fixture since 1980, it’s a go-to for kebabs, baklava and Turkish coffee. L D V $$
The Kitchen Collective 8045 Leesburg Pike, Suite L160, 571-378-0209, tkcfoodhall.com. The takeout-only “virtual food hall” has pizza, kebabs, acai bowls, cookies and much more, amassing multiple food concepts under one umbrella. C L D G V $$
Kura Sushi
8461 Leesburg Pike, 571-544-7122, kurasushi.
com. Choose maki and nigiri from a revolving conveyor belt at this Tysons sushi bar, where drinks are served by a robot. L D G V $$
Lebanese Taverna 1840 International Drive, 703-847-5244, lebanesetaverna.com. See Arlington listing. O C L D G V $$
Lost Dog Café
1690-A Anderson Road, 703-356-5678, lostdog cafe.com. See Arlington listing. L D $$
Luna Hall
8201 Greensboro Drive, 571-378-1672, lunahall group.com. Dumplings, sushi, bubble tea, Korean fried chicken and fluffy cloud cakes round out the choices at this pan-Asian food hall. B L D G V $
Maman Joon
1408 Chain Bridge Road, 571-342-4838, maman joonkitchen.com. Find dolmeh, falafel, lamb shank and kebabs (plus a built-in Z Burger with shakes in 75 flavors) at this Persian eatery. L D V $$
Masala Indian Cuisine
1394 Chain Bridge Road,703-462-9699, masa lava.com. A specialty here are “momos,” Nepalese dumplings with meat or vegetable fillings. The menu also includes tandoori biryani and Indian curries. L D V $$
McLean Family Restaurant
1321 Chain Bridge Road, 703-356-9883, themcleanfamilyrestaurant.com. Pancakes, gyros and big plates of lasagna hit the spot. Breakfast is served until 3 p.m. daily. C B L D V $$
Miyagi Restaurant
6719 Curran St., 703-893-0116. The diminutive sushi bar gets high marks for its friendly service and fresh maki and nigiri. L D $$
Moby Dick House of Kabob
6854 Old Dominion Drive, 703-448-8448; 1500 Cornerside Blvd., 703-734-7000; mobyskabob.com. See Arlington listing. L D $$
Modan
1788 Chain Bridge Road, 703-743-6600, modan restaurant.com. Special occasion? Splurge on a 15-course omakase experience, Wagyu beef or caviar service at this Japanese izakaya helmed by executive chef Micheole “Chico” Dator, formerly of Nobu DC. D G $$$$
Mylo’s Grill
6238 Old Dominion Drive, 703-533-5880, mylos grill.com. Enjoy spanakopita, souvlaki and American classics like burgers and cheesesteaks. Friday is prime-rib night. O R L D $$
Neutral Ground Bar + Kitchen
6641 Old Dominion Drive, 703-992-9095, neutral groundbarandkitchen.com. Chef David Guas is serving up whole branzino, fried quail, bone-in pork chops and “social hour” specials in a beautiful new space. Weekend brunch brings a roving cocktail cart. O r D G V $$$
Ometeo
1640 Capital One Drive N., 703-748-7170, ometeo texmex.com. An upscale “texmexeria” with Mexican renditions of duck, venison, beef and a wide variety of sea creatures, from the owners of The Salt Line.
O L D G $$$
Pasa-Thai Restaurant
1315 Old Chain Bridge Road, 703-442-0090, pasa thaimclean.com. Tuck into a classic Bangkok curry, or a chef’s special such as spicy fried rockfish with chili-basil-garlic sauce. O L D $$
Patsy’s American 8051 Leesburg Pike (Tysons), 703-552-5100, pat sysamerican.com. The menu features greatesthits from other Great American Restaurants.
O C R L D A G V $$
Peter Chang McLean
6715 Lowell Ave., 571-405-6686, peterchang mclean.com. See Arlington listing. L D G V $$
Pikoteo
6811 Elm St., 703-891-0123, pikoteo-usa.com. Escape to warmer climes with ceviche, arepas, mofon-
go and fruity drinks at this Caribbean-infused cafe.
O R L D $$
Pulcinella Italian Kitchen 1310 Chain Bridge Road, 703-893-7777, pulcinellarestaurant.com. A stop for classic spaghetti and meatballs, linguine and clams and wood-fired pizza since 1985. L D $$
Randy’s Prime Seafood & Steaks 8051 Leesburg Pike (Tysons), 703-552-5110, randysprime.com. Treat yourself to prime cuts, duck-fat fries, seafood towers and massive slabs of chocolate cake. L D G $$$$
Rocco’s Italian 1357 Chain Bridge Road, 703-821-3736, roccos italian.com. The Juliano family makes everything in-house from family recipes, including minestrone, pizza, calzones, subs, pasta and cannoli. O C L D G $$
Roots Kitchen & Bar 8100 Old Dominion Drive, 703-712-7850, roots kitchenandbar.com. Find sandwiches, smoothies, salads, espresso drinks, pie, cocktails and graband-go snacks and pantry staples. B L G V $
Silver Diner 8101 Fletcher St., 703-821-5666, silverdiner.com. See Arlington listing. C B R L D A G V $$
Simply Fresh 6811 Elm St., 703-821-1869, simplyfreshva. com. A local favorite for pulled pork, chicken and brisket, Greek diner fare, family-style takeout meals and breakfast. O C B L D G V $
Sisters Thai
7735 Capital One Tower Road, sistersthai.com. See Falls Church listing. L D G V $$
Sorn Thai Restaurant & Bar
6224 Old Dominion Drive, 703-564-0630, sorn thaiva.com. Taste the rainbow in dishes such as pineapple fried rice, Khao Soi noodles and grilled lobster with curry sauce. O R L D G V $$
Starr Hill Biergarten
1805 Capital One Drive, starrhill.com. Anchoring The Perch, an 11-story-high sky park, this indoor-outdoor beer garden offers more than 20 brews on tap and bar snacks. O C L D V $
Stellina Pizzeria
1610 Capital One Drive, stellinapizzeria.com. See Arlington listing. R d V $$
Sushi Umi
7599 Colshire Drive, 571-378-0903, sushiumiva. com. In addition to sushi, contemplate menu items such as whole broiled unagi with a house omelet, Wagyu beef served over fried rice, and colorful chirashi bowls. Closed Sundays. L D $$
Tachibana
6715 Lowell Ave., 703-847-1771, tachibana.us. Stellar sushi, teriyaki and tempura notwithstanding, the chef’s specials here include options such as miso-marinated black cod and scallop donburi with salmon roe. C L D $$
Timber Pizza
8100 Old Dominion Drive, 703-564-0023, timber pizza.com. See Arlington listing. L D V $$
Umai Ramen and Donburi
1500 Cornerside Blvd., 703-546-2465, umai tysonsva.com. Blending Japanese and Thai flavors, the kitchen serves 10 types of ramen and six versions of curry rice, plus Asian-inspired cocktails and a dozen kinds of sake. L D G V $$
The Union
1379 Beverly Road, 703-356-0129, theunionbar andgrill.com. The eclectic menu from Giridhar Sastry, former executive chef of the Mayflower Hotel in D.C., features bites ranging from sliders, lamb chops or Pibil chicken to a beet carpaccio salad. o C L D $$
Wren
1825 Capitol One Drive S., wrentysons.com. Helmed by chef Yo Matsuzaki, this sleek restaurants is known for creative Japanese American fare, stupendous cocktails and sweeping skyline views. O D G V $$$
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Essential Information on 11 Independent Schools
Classy Threads
These woven goods are sure to spark joy as colder temps set in.
Cuddle Up
Looking for a toasty winter gift for a fairtrade enthusiast? Prioritize warmth—and the greater good—with a handmade alpaca throw ($125-$145) from Trade Roots in Westover. Crafted from alpaca fibers by artisans in Peru and Ecuador, these versatile home accessories come in soft hues such as charcoal, pewter, pearl and driftwood. “They’re unique and beautiful handicrafts, but they also support global makers’ livelihoods in a meaningful way,” says shop owner Lisa Ostroff. Her boutique also stocks fair-trade clothing, ecofriendly jewelry, candles and recycled cotton paper gift wrap. fairtraderoots.com
In the Bag
Planning a winter escape to warmer climes? Treat the minimalist in your life to an all-purpose tote from STATED. “They’re like a pair of jeans—light, simple and uncomplicated for any age or gender,” says Arlington designer Shahira Tewfik, whose sturdy carryalls are hand-sewn from 100% cotton duck canvas, sourced solely from U.S. fabric makers—a choice that’s reflected in her brand name. Her collection includes the open top Clarendon ($50-$120), the Grayton with handles and interior pockets ($70-$100), and the larger crossbody Potomac ($100), available in neutral colors such as sand, tobacco and ink. statedus.com
Farm to Fiber
All of the natural fiber knits in Hoagland Handmade ’s collection are sourced from ethical artists and suppliers. “We support sustainable, local farms and independent dyers who want to minimize their impact on the environment,” says Karen Hoagland, who co-owns the online shop with her husband, John. Their top-selling fingerless merino wool mitts ($45), available in nearly 20 different nature-inspired colors, use yarn from a Virginia family-owned farm and are hand-colored with eco-friendly dye. For every purchase, a tree is planted through the National Forest Foundation. hoaglandhandmade.com
Sweater Weather
Here’s a classic gift for a fashionable gent. Elevate his wintertime look with a Holebrook sweater from Sassanova boutique in McLean. Available in traditional navy or gray, the windproof, lined jackets ($210-$475) are structure knitted from 100% cotton or merino wool, and available with quarter, half or full zippers. “It’s about instilling confidence and helping people feel good,” says shopkeeper Angela Tandy. “We want people to hold on to these pieces forever.” The shop’s NOVAman collection also includes a classic crewneck sweater in platinum ($150) and a premium Italian merino wool pullover with elbow patches by Stenstroms ($265). sassanova.com
Alice Levitt
Queens of Cuisine
Take the train to Flushing for a culinary passport to China’s regions.
THERE’S MALA IN THE AIR. Anywhere from a tickle to a burn, the spice blend made with Sichuan peppercorns and chilies suffuses the sidewalks of Flushing, Queens. And that’s not the only enticing aroma that will grab any visitor who treads the streets of one of the busiest parts of New York City.
A journey to Flushing is the closest enthusiasts of regional Chinese food may get to the motherland without a long-haul flight. From the nose-tingling piquancy of northeastern-style fermented cabbage to the sugary scents of boba
shops selling rainbows of sweet tea, there’s something to represent nearly every region and taste.
Amtrak trains take about 3½ hours to travel from D.C.’s Union Station to Penn Station in Manhattan. From there, find the Long Island Rail Road listings for the next train to FlushingMain Street in Queens. During the 20-minute interborough ride, the underground gives way to a vibrant succession of neighborhoods, including Little Tibet. Upon arrival in Flushing, the elevator down from the plat-
form puts you in the heart of busy Chinatown.
Queens in general and Flushing in particular have long been destinations for global diversity. Flushing Meadows Corona Park was the site of two World’s Fairs, in 1939 and 1964. Comic actress Awkwafina (aka Nora Lum) has deep roots here, adds Rob MacKay, director of the Queens Tourism Council and deputy executive director, community, for the Queens Economic Development Corp. Her great-grandfather opened Lum’s, which was purportedly
Hand-pulled noodles at He Nan Mian Guan
The Flushing neighborhood in Queens, New York
n driving range
the very first Chinese restaurant to take root in Flushing.
That was in the 1950s. By the time Lum’s closed in the 1980s, some 60,000 Chinese immigrants lived in the neighborhood, according to the Flushing Chinese Business Association. MacKay posits that the influx may have begun with the second World’s Fair. “There’s also the philosophy that it’s between two airports,” he says.
Either way, Flushing’s Chinatown is considered by many to have eclipsed the one in Manhattan in both size and quality. It’s not unusual for a visitor to encounter businesses where the signage, menus and spoken language include little or no English.
My first stop is just such a place. I’m in the market for hand-pulled noodles and a rou jia mo sandwich from central China’s Henan province. He Nan Mian Guan has the goods.
Each member of the family behind the counter works small balls of dough into what look like cats’ cradles of yarn before a brief trip into boiling water. From there, the wide strands are combined with a soy-based sauce, plus onions, bok choy, and sliced lamb or beef.
ALICE LEVITT (BBQ); TYSON BATEMAN (NOODLES, STREET VENDOR)
Dongbei-style barbecue at Jiu Hao
A noodle dish at He Nan Mian Guan
At the table, I add house chili paste and black vinegar to make the dish even more irresistible.
Even better? The rou jia mo, a burger-like handheld with origins in preChristian Shaanxi. This popular street food has since made its way all over China, and the juicy pork version at He Nan Mian Guan is a standout.
The total bill, including two drinks, comes to $20. The restaurant is technically cash only, but through pointing and gesturing with the youngest family members, I figure out a way to pay with Zelle.
My lodging is a few quick blocks away, and as its name suggests, the Asiatic Hotel caters to visitors from the largest continent. A sign at the front desk warns in both characters and letters, “Durian cannot be brought into hotel. $250 cleanup fee will be charged.”
Such signs are a common sight in Asia, where the fruit, which smells like a mix of melon and motor oil, is often banned from public transport and anywhere else it might offend.
The room is large by New York City standards, with light varnished woods that create a pleasant austerity. At less
than $150 per night, I consider it a steal, especially given its location on a relatively quiet street that’s still just steps from the action.
My dinner destination, Jiu Hao, is a 10-minute walk. Out front, a gentleman grills skewers, the charcoal of his stand smoking as he sells a few sticks of lamb to passersby, but most of his yield goes inside. Once I’m seated in a booth, ordering is easy, thanks to a tablet complete with pictures.
Jiu Hao specializes in tabletop barbecue in the style that’s served in Dongbei, the chilly northeastern region of China that touches Russia and North Korea. The overlap with Korean barbecue is clear as soon as the small plates (called “banchan” in Korean restaurants) come out. Instead of kimchi, the spread here includes spiced peanuts, potato salad topped with colorful sugar sprinkles, cilantro-dotted spicy
bean sprouts, and pickled radish. The icy winters of Dongbei must feel a little warmer thanks to restaurants like this one, where servers grill dishes such as live eel over blazing charcoal.
The highlight for me is an ultra-tender, garlicky-marinated beef served in half a pineapple. Though the dish is packed with flavor on its own, the cumin-chili powder spice blends on the table add several more dimensions. I toss some onto the complimentary watermelon for a savory and sweet bite at meal’s end.
Whatever the weather in Queens, it’s always worth heading indoors for a mall crawl or two. The window-shopping ranges from luxe jewelry stores to anime-focused gift shops, but let’s face it, the real goal is to continue my gustatory quest.
For more than a decade, New World Mall has hosted what many consid -
The outdoor grill at Jiu Hao
Corona Meadows Flushing Park is the site of two World’s Fairs.
er Flushing’s preeminent food court. The location, once home to a Caldor department store, draws diners downstairs with a cacophony of scents, from stinky tofu to live fish ready to be cooked in myriad ways. It used to be my favorite, too, until the Tangram mall opened in 2022 with a sleeker, brighter appearance.
Tangram is home to both Asian- and
American-born casual chains such as Kura Sushi and Xi’an Famous Foods, but my favorite stop is the more upmarket Juqi. Part of a chain of about 20 restaurants in Beijing, this is the place for crisp-skinned Peking duck that you eat with skinny, satiny pancakes. A friendly server shows me how to use my chopsticks to wrap the juicy fowl with cucumber and scallions.
The showy appetizers—including mashed potatoes molded into the shape of a rabbit—and desserts are worth your money, too. I’m partial to the almond pudding, contained in a white chocolate shell that resembles a peach.
Peking duck, with its long and storied culinary history, presented in the basement of a bustling mall, is an appropriate way to cap off a visit to Flushing. In this urban neighborhood, Chinese traditions are packed together in an accessible collection of vibrant eateries, making for a mighty tasty budget vacation.
If You Go
Where to Eat, Drink & Stay
He Nan Mian Guan (136-31 41st Ave.) is open from 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. The close-knit family that runs it may not pay much attention to the ambience (wait to use the restroom elsewhere), but even in China, I’ve never seen such beautiful noodles produced so quickly.
At Jiu Hao (34-40 Union St.), ordering Dongbei-style barbecue (cooked at your cozy booth) is easy for anglophones, thanks to a tablet complete with pictures. Don’t miss the high-quality marinated beef.
Inside Tangram mall, cool down with a sip at Sing Choi Kee (133-36 37th Ave., singchoikee.net), a Hong Kong-style cafe. Its specialty is large teddy-bear-shaped ice cubes that melt into your drink, adding flavor. I like the grapefruit soda crowned with a strawberry-flavored bear. No Chinese food crawl is complete without bites from the northwesternmost region of Xinjiang. Halal Uyghur cuisine fuses various influences from across the Silk Road. I satisfied a craving for spicy lamb kebabs and thin-skinned
Peking duck at Juqi in Tangram mall
Soda with teddy bear ice at Sing Choi Kee
Almond pudding disguised as a peach at Juqi
pumpkin dumplings at New Nurlan Uyghur Restaurant (135-51 39th Ave., newnurlanuyghur.com), in the lower level of the Best Western Queens Court Hotel.
At Asian Jewels Seafood Restaurant (133-30 39th Ave., asianjewelsny.com), dim sum carts barrel by with convivial force. Most of the staff speak some English and are happy to discuss their fare, which includes usual suspects such as flaky pork pies and coral-like fried taro filled with shrimp and pork.
Before you hop back on the train, grab a scoop or two at Sundaes Best (13617 39th Ave., sundaesbestny.com) inside The Food Hall at Queens Crossing. You’ll find sorbets and gelati in Asianinspired flavors such as Jeju mandarin, calamansi, and matcha dotted with Japanese Kit Kats.
The Asiatic Hotel (asiatichotelnyc.com) is conveniently located in Flushing’s Chinatown. The hotel offers rooms with queen and double beds and provides complimentary Wi-Fi and breakfast.
Just up 37th Ave., rest in the lap of luxury at the Renaissance New York
Flushing, NY
Flushing Hotel at Tangram (marriott.com), a newer lodging that stretches above the Tangram mall. Standard king rooms are an impressive 245 square feet, and all rooms are stocked with Aveda shampoo and soap. A rooftop bar offers views of all the action of the neighborhood.
Where to Shop & Explore
Pick up edible gifts and hard-to-find food items at the neighborhood’s many Asian markets. The best of them is the expansive J Market inside New World Mall (136-20 Roosevelt Ave., newworldmallnyc.com) At Tangram mall (133-33 39th Ave., tangramnyc.com), retailers selling Japanese cosmetics, housewares, anime plushies and collectibles share space with a cat café, badminton pro shop and a boutique specializing in Korean streetwear. About a mile’s walk from downtown, Flushing Meadows Corona Park has been the location of two World’s Fairs. Buildings constructed for those events now hold attractions that
include the Queens Botanical Garden (queensbotanical.org), the Queens Museum (queensmuseum.org) and the New York Hall of Science (nysci. org). My favorite museum of all is nearby in Corona. The Louis Armstrong House Museum (34-56 107th St., louisarmstronghouse.org) lovingly preserves the home of the jazz legend, Technicolor kitchen and all. ■
Alice Levitt is a food and travel writer based in Northern Virginia.
Dim sum at Asian Jewels Seafood Restaurant
The Louis Armstrong House Museum
Imported goods at Tangram mall
Christine Koubek Flynn
Bird’s Eye Views
For a true autumn spectacle, head to Owl Creek Landing in Virginia Beach and climb an eightstory spiral observation tower overlooking a 38-acre forest. Built for visitors of all ages and abilities, the Nautilus Tower encircles The Whorl, the longest steel slide in America, and debuted in August
next door to the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center.
Take the slide or descend a couple levels on foot to hop on a one-thirdmile-long wooden suspension bridge that stretches from tree to tree, mid-canopy.
Inspired by parks in Switzerland, Austria and Germany, Owl Creek Landing is also home to four whimsical treehouses with unique
elements ranging from a tic-tactoe game created in spinning wood blocks, to geometric windows, mushroom-shaped stools and a playful music box.
Picnic tables dot the forest playground, and a half-mile trail offers ground-level views of the park’s native plants and wildlife.
General admission is $28 for visitors 14 and up; $18 for kids ages
10-13; $13 for kids 3-9. Check the website for promotions and a 15% discount code for teachers, first responders, military, college students and seniors 55+.
Combo tickets for The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium’s ropes course are also available. Owl Creek Landing, 801 General Booth Blvd., Virginia Beach, Virginia, 757-330-0473, owlcreeklanding.com
Owl Creek Landing in Virginia Beach features a treetop tower with a spiral slide and other forest adventures.
Gilded Age Glam
Wilmington, Delaware’s grand Hotel Du Pont has been an architectural treasure ever since its opening more than a century ago. The 12-story Italian Renaissance building— with its mosaic and terrazzo floors, hand-carved millwork and imported European chandeliers—was originally created by French and Italian craftsmen and debuted in 1913. Over time, the hotel has hosted politicians, celebrities and even royalty, welcoming guests such as John F. Kennedy, Amelia Earhardt, Prince Rainier of Monaco, Joe DiMaggio, Duke Ellington and Reese Witherspoon.
A recent renovation preserved this grand dame’s period features while adding modern-day amenities and 19 “parlor suites” inspired by European salons. Each suite includes custom built-ins and plush furnishings with burnished gold accents. All of the hotel’s 217 rooms were updated with new mattresses, oversize king pillows, premium linens and terry robes.
French brasserie Le Cavalier at the Green Room has earned accolades for both its food and architectural preservation, including the Historic Hotels of America “Best Historic Restaurant” award. The menu infuses the flavors of North Africa and Provence into French classics.
During the holiday season, Executive Pastry Chef Leah Ferrara’s team invests more than two weeks in designing, baking and assembling a meticulous gingerbread village to display in the main lobby. Guests can participate in make-your-own gingerbread cookie workshops every Saturday in December. Enjoy a classy high tea served with treats from the in-house bakery on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Twinkle
Twinkle
Rates begin at $599 per night, $799 for a parlor suite. An on-site courtesy vehicle transports guests to and from the Amtrak station (based on availability). Hotel Du Pont, 42 W. 11th St., Wilmington, Delaware, 302594-3100, hoteldupont.com
Ready to traipse a trail decked in holiday splendor? Visit Charlottesville, Virginia’s Boar’s Head Resort for its fifth-annual Winter Wander Trail of Lights. From Nov. 14 to Jan. 3, the property’s rolling landscape at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains will be transformed into a sparkling wonderland, complete with a half-mile lakeside stroll of glowing installations. New this year is Glistening Grove, where more than 700 illuminated light posts will “dance” in harmony with a 20-minute musical composition around Firefly Pond.
Other glittering displays include a 35-foot holiday tree; a 9-foot illuminated heron with a 14-foot wingspan and its frog companion, complete with lily pad; and Lattice Lane, which features a 200-year-old oak tree wrapped in lights.
Post stroll, head to The Enchantment District for nightly live music, fairytale-inspired dancers in illuminated costumes, outdoor games, fire pits and food trucks.
In Santa’s Mill, you’ll find the jolly father of Christmas near the shops and a hot chocolate toppings bar. Visit winterwander.com for holiday details and a trail map.
Boar’s Head Resort’s 168 rooms
were updated in spring 2023 with new carpet and furnishings, plus in-room espresso machines.
Set on the sprawling resort grounds, the 19th-century-estate Birdwood Mansion is scheduled to reopen in early 2026 as a seven-room boutique-style hotel surrounded by gardens.
The resort’s focus on wellness and athletics is evidenced in an expansive sports club offering pickleball, squash and tennis courts, a state-ofthe-art aquatic center and awardwinning spa. Rates begin at $219.
Boar’s Head Resort, 200 Ednam Drive, Charlottesville, Virginia, 844-611-8066, boarsheadresort.com.
Holiday lights at the Boar’s Head Resort in Charlottesville
Brain Power
In the 1950s, an Arlington man helped make medical history.
BY THE TIME HE entered the operating room at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in October 1953, John Unger, Jr., had suffered from epilepsy most of his life. At 43 years old, he averaged about 100 seizures per year— roughly one every three days.
The worst year had been 1938, when the number reached 266. His mother scattered pillows around every room of their house in an attempt to protect her son from further injury during convulsions. Now surgeons were offering Unger a chance at deliverance—but it required removing a section of his brain.
Born in December 1909, Unger grew up in Arlington’s Old Dominion neighborhood, where he experienced his first seizure at age 2. Throughout his life, he tried numerous anti-seizure medications, with varying degrees of success.
Among these was Luminal, the brand name for phenobarbital, first used as an anti-epileptic medicine in 1912. Luminal was still considered a relatively new treatment when Richard Sutton, a physician in Clarendon, prescribed it to Unger in 1929 with instructions to take one tablet three times a day.
By the 1950s, Unger was still living at home with his mother as his seizures persisted. The opportunity to undergo a temporal craniotomy— an experimental procedure in which a portion of his skull and affected brain tissue would be removed—was one he eagerly embraced, despite the risks. It would be the first such surgery ever performed at NIH.
“They told me that the operation would kill me,” Unger later shared in an interview with The Washington Post “I [said] I wanted them to go ahead if they thought anything they might learn from me would help others.”
In fact, the craniotomy was an unmitigated success, completely relieving the Arlington resident of his symptoms. And over time, the pioneering procedure did help others. In the 13 years following Unger’s operation, some 400 patients underwent similar surgeries, an NIH newsletter reported,
with more than half experiencing full relief. Variations of the procedure are still performed today, with a high success rate, as a treatment for epilepsy.
In 1966, Unger paid a thank-you visit to his NIH surgeon, Maitland Baldwin, in the spirit of “gratitude and friendship.”
Unger died in August 1980 at the age of 70 and is buried in Arlington’s Columbia Gardens Cemetery. His Luminal pillbox from 1929, bearing the logo of the long-defunct Hill & Poole pharmacy in Cherrydale, is now in the collection of the Arlington Historical Society. ■
Arlingtonian John Unger was able to retire his 1929 pillbox after a pioneering surgery relieved his epileptic seizures.
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