












Our area’s very best—as chosen by their peers
We’re more than advisors; we’re here to bring your goals into focus. To build a richer life for you and your family, we start by matching our investment analysis to your customized plan. en, a er mapping out the future that works for you, we go there—together.
With our big-bank financial capabilities and exclusively local focus, EagleBank can help keep your medical practice in good business health. Whether you’re looking to set up a new office, manage your cash flow, acquire new equipment, or take care of any other business need, our healthcare industry experts will work with you to provide just the financial solutions you need.
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TRACI JOHNSON
703-239-3082 traci.johnson@wfp.com
SHARON BROWN
703-472-3686 sharon.brown@wfp.com
31
Our area’s most respected physicians, as nominated by their peers and vetted by a rigorous third-party screening process.
The year of quarantine had significant impacts on our physical and mental health. Which lifestyle changes are here to stay, and which of the unhealthy habits we developed as coping mechanisms need to be undone? PEOPLE
Their pandemic senior year was anything but ordinary—which makes these new graduates and their myriad achievements all the more extraordinary. ON
100 Places to Eat
Bite-size write-ups on more than 300 restaurants, bars and eateries near you.
My Life
Cycling propelled him through a cold, dark, lonely winter and into the current bliss that is shorts weather.
In-person events are happening again! Venture out
16 Good Stuff
Knitting for stress relief, secret concerts and a champion for Arlington’s Buckingham neighborhood.
20 Familiar Faces
The Netherlands Carillon bells near the Iwo Jima memorial are coming back. And carillonneur Edward Nassor takes song requests.
87 Great Spaces
With the arrival of Brood X, these Arlington homeowners were even more grateful for their new screened porch.
88 Prime Numbers
A look at the area’s most expensive home sales. Plus, real estate trends by ZIP code.
97 Home Plate
Try Ethiopian vegetarian takeout on the Pike, and a homegrown line of fermented pickles and hot sauces.
110 Shop Local
Planning a wedding? These pretty invitations and floral arrangements are made in Arlington.
112 Back Story
A new public square honors the legacy of “the Mayor of Green Valley.”
I WAS HAVING LUNCH RECENTLY with a friend and client who I find to be particularly thoughtful and wise. I shared (perhaps overshared) some struggles my family has been dealing with because of the pandemic. He, in turn, talked about challenges his family has faced and then referenced a quote that’s been attributed to the late actor Robin Williams: “Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind. Always.”
Those words have been stuck in my head for about a week now. If someone you interact with seems distant, dismissive or rude, give them the benefit of the doubt. They might be struggling. We just lived through an incredibly stressful, disruptive year, filled with uncertainty. There were some silver linings for sure (more time with family, new hobbies), but overall, the pandemic was difficult for many of us.
One of our feature stories, “Rebalancing Act” by Stephenie Overman, examines many of the unhealthy coping mechanisms we developed over the past year, from eating and drinking too much to working excessive hours and losing exercise time to other priorities. Now that life is getting back to normal, it’s time to shed some of those unproductive habits and reset. Our story can help you get back on track.
This issue also includes our annual Extraordinary Teen awards. We made a major change this year by forming a selection committee to review and rank the nominations. Their charge was to select a diverse group of students (in terms of race, gender, talents, experiences and locations) who are extraordinary, with compelling stories to tell. The students had to have demonstrated strengths
in several of the following areas: academics, leadership, extracurriculars (sports, the arts, etc.), service, passion, creativity and overcoming adversity. I think you’ll agree the teens we chose excelled in many of these areas—in spite of the disruption and uncertainty caused by the pandemic.
Our inaugural selection committee was comprised of Lisa Fikes, acting president and CEO, Leadership Center for Excellence | Volunteer Arlington; Whytni Kernodle, founder and principal of Global Goddess Enterprises and co-founder and president of Black Parents of Arlington; Troy Cogburn, AVP for enrollment, Marymount University; Lizzette Arias, former executive director, The Dream Project; and yours truly. We are thrilled with the results and thank the committee members for their guidance and input.
Last but not least in this issue are the results of our biennial Top Doctors survey. Conducted by Professional Research Services, the survey asked area physicians to choose the best of the best among their peers. I hope you find the list informative and useful.
We want to hear from you. If you have any questions or suggestions for us, please email me at greg.hamilton@arlingtonmagazine.com. Letters to the editor and story ideas should be sent to jenny.sullivan@arlingtonmagazine.com. I hope you have a great summer, and thanks for reading Arlington Magazine!
PUBLISHER & CO-FOUNDER
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EDITOR
Jenny Sullivan
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LIVES IN: Falls Church City. “My wife and I moved to Arlington’s Buckingham neighborhood from Denver last spring. In June we purchased and moved to a small place in The Little City.”
ORIGINALLY FROM: Buffalo, New York
IN THIS ISSUE: Photographed cyclist Tom Sommers, who penned the My Life essay on page 22.
FAVORITE SUBJECTS: “I love taking photos of people who interest or inspire me. My most photographed subject is probably my wife, Drea.”
PANDEMIC COPING: “I did what a lot of people did to keep their sanity––embrace routines. Stretching, exercise, writing and reading are all a part of a successful morning for me. Sometimes all I need is a long walk to put things into perspective. I can’t do all the right things all of the time, so I try not to be so hard on myself when I’m not perfect.”
MIND AND BODY: “I adopted a vegan diet last fall. I’m really cognizant of how food makes me feel.”
PARK PLACES: “Lubber Run Park is my favorite Arlington spot when I need an escape. I’ve also been spending a lot of time in Anacostia Park in D.C., taking portraits of people there to get to know the community.”
ONLINE: tomsandner.com and @tomsandner on Instagram
LIVES IN: Reston, after several years in Arlington. “Previously I’ve lived near the Courthouse Metro station, in Fairlington, Shirlington and on Vacation Lane in Cherrydale. I’ve also lived in L.A., New York City and New Jersey.”
ORIGINALLY FROM: Indiana
IN THIS ISSUE: Writes about some of the stresses and bad habits we acquired during our pandemic year and how to chart a return to wellness.
WRITING LIFE: “I’ve written about workplace issues for years. I used to be senior writer at the Society for Human Resource Management in Alexandria. I especially like to write about where work and health intersect. I’m also author of Next Generation Wellness at Work (Praeger: An Imprint of ABC-CLIO) and a regional coordinator of the Society of Professional Journalists.”
IN PRACTICE: “I carefully observe all the ergonomic rules I write about when I’m at my desk, but it falls apart when I curl up on the sofa with my laptop and a cat.”
CURRENTLY WORKING ON: “An article about employees returning to the office (there will be lots of those) and about wage theft.”
ONLINE: stephenieoverman.com and @saoverman on Twitter
JULY 9-AUG. 15
The free outdoor concert series returns, kicking off the season with a July 9 performance by Chris Pierce, co-writer of the song “We Can Always Come Back to This,” from the NBC primetime series This Is Us. Subsequent shows will bring artists such as Veronneau, JoGo Project, Akua Allrich, King Soul, Nkula and the 19th Street Band to the stage under the stars. See website for the full lineup of musicians and dates. Shows are Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 11 a.m. Lubber Run Amphitheater, North Columbus Street and Second Street North, Arlington, arts.arlingtonva.us/ lubber-run
FRIDAYS THROUGH OCTOBER, 5-8 P.M.
Fridays at the Fountain
Crystal City Water Park
Featured artists include Chasing Autumn (July 2), 7 Deadlies (July 9), Sharif (July 16), Caz Gardiner (July 23), La Unica (Aug. 13) and The McCartney Experience (Aug. 20). Shows are free but preregistration is required to reserve a spot. See website for the full lineup and attendance protocols. 1601 Crystal Drive, Arlington, nationallanding.org/do/ fridays-at-the-fountain
JULY 9-AUG. 28
Creative Cauldron
Following the success of last year’s summer concert series, Creative Cauldron will again stage Friday and Saturday evening outdoor performances at Cherry Hill park, featuring award-winning bands and some of the D.C. area’s biggest names in musical theater. Bring your own lawn chair or blanket. See website for artists and ticket prices (season passes available). 223 Little Falls St., Falls Church, creativecauldron.org
JULY 11, 7:30 P.M.
The Birchmere
The Lubbock, Texas-based band of country storytellers brings a little taste of the Lone Star State to the Commonwealth. $25. 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, birchmere.com
JULY 31, 8 P.M.
The State Theatre
There’s just something about a throwback show—especially when it includes covers of the Spice Girls, Beastie Boys and Third Eye Blind—that really gets a crowd going.
Come and rock out with The Bayside Tigers. $17-$20. 220 N. Washington St., Falls Church, thestatetheatre.com
AUG. 21, 11 A.M.-9 P.M.
27th Annual Tinner Hill
Music Festival
Cherry Hill Park
The Tinner Hill Heritage Foundation is resurrecting its annual summer music festival, this time featuring the soulful BB King Blues Band and New Orleans’ own Bonerama brass band. See website for additional info on artists, vendors, family-friendly activities and ticket prices. 223 Little Falls St., Falls Church City, tinnerhill.org
AUG. 27, 8 P.M.
The State Theatre
The tribute band puts on a rockin’ show, complete with impromptu jams, solos and serious bass. $12-$15. 220 N. Washington St., Falls Church, thestatetheatre.com
JULY 21, 7 P.M.
Virtual Book Launch
One More Page Books
Arlington resident Colleen Shogan follows up her 10 other mysteries with her latest, Dead as a Duck, about the chain of events that unfolds after a beach town mayor turns up dead during a congressional staffer’s vacation. This free book launch party will be held online. onemorepagebooks.com
AUG. 5
Words, Words, Words: The Last True Poets of the Sea
One More Page Books
Every month, as part of its Words, Words, Words Book Club, the Folger Shakespeare Library partners with an indie bookstore in
the DMV to shine a spotlight on a particular historical fiction novel or Shakespeare adaptation. This free online event with One More Page Books will provide context around Julia Drake’s The Last True Poets of the Sea 2200 N. Westmoreland St., Arlington, onemorepagebooks.com
THROUGH AUG. 15
McLean Project for the Arts
Faculty Art Exhibition
McLean Community Center
View works by MPA faculty at this free summer exhibit in the community center’s Atrium Gallery. 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean, mpaart.org
JULY 1-AUG. 8
Words Matter: Honoring Arlington Educators
Arlington Art Truck
For this Arlington Art Truck activation,
Are you past due for your skin screening?
Please call for an appointment at our new Falls Church City location.
Dr. Kopelman specializes in the evaluation and treatment of disorders of the skin, hair, and nails. She accepts most major insurances.
Margaret Kopelman, MD, FAAD Board-certi ed Dermatologist
City Dermatology of Northern Virginia 407 N. Wasington St., Suite 104 Falls Church, VA 22046 . 703-343-1064 CityDermNOVA.com
Schedule a virtual appointment or an in-person tour to discover what Vinson Hall Retirement Community has to offer, and check our website for upcoming events.
social justice printmaker and art teacher
Justyne Fischer will create woodcuts of five prominent women educators— Hazel Mahler, Dorothy Hamm, Evelyn Reid Syphax, Phoebe Hall Knipling and Emma Violand-Sánchez. The woodcut portraits will be printed on postcards that area residents can use to send notes of gratitude to teachers, mentors and others who have made a difference in their lives. Visit the art truck (see website for dates and locations) to meet the artist in person. Free. arts.arlingtonva.us/ arlington-art-truck/
AUG. 2-27
Ordinary objects and mundane scenes are often overlooked, but they can become beautiful when reinterpreted with an artistic eye. This juried exhibit will portray everyday elements in a new, more magical light. Free. 2120 Crystal Drive, Arlington, galleryunderground.org
THROUGH JULY 12
Synetic Theater
Love gets a bit complicated in Synetic Theater’s reimagined interpretation of the farce by 18th-century playwright Carlo Goldoni. Beatrice and Florindo just can’t seem to find their way back to one another, hindered by the antics of a greedy servant named Truffaldino. See website for ticket prices. 1800 S. Bell St., Arlington, synetictheater.org
JULY 2-3
Wolf Trap
Head to Wolf Trap to see Stephen Sondheim’s dark musical tale of an unjustly exiled barber thirsting for blood
while seeking revenge. The National Symphony Orchestra performs alongside a cast of nine operatic singers, including baritone Thomas Glass as Sweeney Todd. See website for ticket prices. 1551 Trap Road, Vienna, wolftrap.org
JULY 15-25
1st Stage
Behold the power of the monologue in this two-week lineup of one-person theatrical performances by actors from across the country. See website for ticket prices. 1524 Spring Hill Road, Tysons, 1ststage.org
AUG. 2-SEPT. 16
Signature Theatre
As the title suggests, this play (winner of the Edward M. Kennedy Prize for Drama) gives viewers a glimpse into what life was like in the Detroit of the late 1960s, when both Motown music and racial tensions were peaking. The performance can be
streamed using the Marquee TV app. $35. sigtheatre.org
JULY 16-18
The fourth annual gathering of Black selfproclaimed nerds (aka “blerds”) will feature a “Chocolate City” theme with cosplay contests, anime theater, gaming tournaments, comedy performances, a food truck rally and more. $60-$200. Hyatt Regency Crystal City; 2799 Richmond Highway, Arlington, blerdcon.com
JULY 16-18
George Washington’s Mount Vernon
Tickets to this annual event always sell out fast, so if you haven’t yet had the chance to sip Virginia vino on the estate lawn of our nation’s first president, consider
booking soon. Check website for individual ticket and table prices. 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, mountvernon.org
AUG. 1
Dark Star Park in Rosslyn
Head to Arlington’s Dark Star Park at 9:32 a.m. on Aug. 1. That’s the date when William Henry Ross in 1860 bought the land that is now Rosslyn—and the precise time when shadows cast by the park’s seemingly random metal poles and spheres (elements in a permanent art installation by sculptor Nancy Holt) align to create a fleeting masterpiece. Free. 1655 N. Fort Myer Drive, Arlington, parks. arlingtonva.us
AUG. 14
George Washington’s Mount Vernon Treat the kids to an afternoon snack— including a cherry tart and other foods of the era—with the original first lady, played
AUG. 18-22
Thomas Jefferson Community Center
After the 2020 fair went virtual, organizers are excited to return to a weekend of in-person fun for the whole family. This year’s county fair promises all the usual favorites—cotton candy, funnel cake, animal races, carnival rides, competitive exhibits and other beloved summertime attractions. Admission is free, but rides are ticketed. 3501 Second St. S., Arlington, arlingtoncountyfair.us
Got a calendar event we should know about? Submit it to editorial@arlingtonmagazine.com by a docent. She’ll tell them all about what life was like during the Revolutionary War and the early days of our republic. $45. 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, mountvernon.org
CHRISTINE GOERKE JOYCE YANG
CYNTHIA ERIVO JoANN FALLETTA
FIFTY YEARS TOGETHER: A CELEBRATION OF WOLF TRAP
NATIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
A KAY SHOUSE GREAT PERFORMANCE
JUL 1
MAX WEINBERG’S JUKEBOX
STEPHEN SONDHEIM
SWEENEY TODD IN CONCERT
NATIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
JUL 2 + 3
JUL 10 + 11 AN EVENING WITH AMOS LEE
JUL 21 + 22
CHRIS THILE
JUL 24 + 25
THE WAR AND TREATY
JUL 29
AOIFE O’DONOVAN WITH MEMBERS OF THE KNIGHTS
JUL 2 8
NORM LEWIS
NATIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
JUL 30 + 31
BOLOGNE
THE ANONYMOUS LOVER IN CONCERT (L’AMANT ANONYME)
NATIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
JUN 18
WATCHHOUSE (FORMERLY MANDOLIN ORANGE)
JUL 7
BEETHOVEN AND BOLOGNE
NATIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
JUL 8 + 9
VIARDOT | HOLST
CINDERELLA (CENDRILLON ) | SĀVITRI IN CONCERT
JUL 16
BIG TONY AND TROUBLE FUNK WITH SPECIAL GUEST SUGAR BEAR THE LEGENDARY DJ KOOL
JUL 18
INEZ BARLATIER
AYITI: STORIES AND SONGS FROM HAITI
JUL 20
CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE
ORAN ETKIN: TIMBALOOLOO FINDING FRIENDS FAR FROM HOME
JUL 21
CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE
STARIAS: OPERA’S MOST POWERFUL MOMENTS
WOLF TRAP OPERA ARTISTS AND ALUMNI NATIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
JUL 23
DAN + CLAUDIA ZANES WITH FRIENDS NEW BEGINNINGS
JUL 24
CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE
JOANIE LEEDS ALL THE LADIES
JUL 27
CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE
ELENA MOON PARK AND FRIENDS
JUL 28
CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE
MARYLAND YOUTH BALLET SNOW WHITE
JUL 31
CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE
More performances to be announced!
Virginia’s stay-at-home order in the spring of 2020 brought pain to Mariflor Ventura’s neighborhood. Every week, it seemed, the Buckingham mother of four found herself talking to people who had lost their jobs. Many of them, immigrants who had worked in hospitality, were struggling to make ends meet without transportation, health insurance, child care or state-issued identification.
When one young mother desperate for food and diapers asked for help, Ventura started giving her things from her own home. Then Ventura stumbled upon the Arlington Neighbors Helping Each Other Through Covid-19 Facebook group, which was “like finding the light,” she says. She began posting requests for much-needed items, like clothes and high chairs.
Soon, others were coming to Ventura for assistance. She started building a master list of
names and contacts—what is now a WhatsApp group of more than 100 families in need. To address food insecurity, she forged a connection with the Falls Church-based Iglesia Nueva Vida D.C., which now delivers donations of groceries every Friday to the Buckingham neighborhood.
In April, Ventura started an Amazon Wish List for donations, as well as the Buckingham Mutual Aid Facebook group. Donated supplies have poured in, cluttering up her apartment. She says it’s all worth it.
“I’ve been through [hardships and I know] something about having nothing,” says the 12-year Arlington resident, who is originally from El Salvador. “That’s why I have the feeling to help [others] now. I want to help my people here.”
Ventura and her eldest daughter are now forming a nonprofit to help Spanish-speaking immigrants find resources, learn useful skills and meet new people. facebook.com/groups/436206850799018
At the height of the pandemic, some folks were willing to do just about anything to get a live music fix—including purchasing a concert ticket without knowing where the show was going to take place.
In 2020, Arlington singer-songwriter Justin Trawick and his girlfriend, Lauren LeMunyan—after taking to Facebook Live with a musical series they called “The Justin and Lauren Show”—moved their act to a run of small, ticketed performances in the backyards of area homes.
Soon, Trawick’s band, The Common Good, was in on the idea, popping up in a secret outdoor location to perform an ongoing series called Common Good on the Block. Ticket holders for the intimate sets aren’t informed of the venue until 48 hours before showtime.
“[The secrecy] adds to the allure and the excitement of it all,” says Trawick, who lives with LeMunyan in Westover and cites Greensky Bluegrass, G. Love and David Gray among his musical influences.
The band donates a portion of the proceeds from each gig (tickets are $30) to the Arlington Food Assistance Center (AFAC), and each show includes an on-site canned food drive. “Food insecurity is a big deal all the time, but especially during Covid when a lot of people aren’t working, not making money,” Trawick says. As of mid-May, the concert series had amassed a truckload of nonperishable food items and more than $700 in cash donations for AFAC.
The performances have been a win-win for the nonprofit, and for fans itching to hear music in person—not to mention for the band members, who feed off of playing for a live audience. At press time, they still had a few more secret summer gigs scheduled, but almost all were sold out. Locations TBA. justintrawick.com
Last August, oncology nurse Evie Stinger received an email from her employer, Medstar Georgetown University Hospital, with an invitation to knit. Covid stress among health care workers was at an all-time high, and a local nonprofit was offering knitting as a form of therapy.
Thus began Stinger’s connection to Project Knitwell, an Arlington organization that teaches knitting for stress relief. After deciding to give it a shot, the Rosslyn resident was paired with an online instructor and received a starter kit in the mail with knitting needles (one with a few rows already completed, because anyone who has ever attempted knitting knows how challenging that first row can be), plus a couple balls of yarn and an instruction booklet.
“[Knitting] is a relaxing activity for me,” Stinger says. “It’s almost meditative, where you don’t really think of anything else because you’re so focused on the knitting and not really worried about other things. It’s a nice tool for unwinding and resetting your mind.”
Project Knitwell was founded in 2010 by Carol Caparosa, a McLean mom who rediscovered her own love of knitting while spending hours at the hospital as her daughter battled cancer. After her daughter recovered, Caparosa began volunteering to teach knitting to other parents at the hospital, hoping it would be helpful for them, too.
Since then, Project Knitwell has offered knitting lessons throughout the D.C. area via organizations such as Virginia Hospital Center, N Street Village, Alternative House and So Others Might Eat. When Covid arrived, Caparosa launched an outreach effort targeting one of the most affected groups—nurses—and pivoted to an online teaching model: Knitwell in the Cloud.
The virtual programming helped 27 nurses, including Stinger, stay grounded during the worst days of the pandemic. projectknitwell.org
They were a sound of summer in Arlington for decades. Soon, the carillon bells will ring again.
FOR NEARLY 60 YEARS, the Netherlands Carillon bells could be heard on summer evenings at Arlington Ridge Park, home to the Marine Corps War Memorial (aka Iwo Jima memorial) near Rosslyn. Often, they pealed rec -
ognizable tunes, from “The Star-Spangled Banner” to the theme from Star Wars. And for most of those years, the man sitting atop the 127-foot bell tower was carillonneur Edward Nassor.
That is, until 2019, when the bells
stopped ringing to undergo a massive, multimillion-dollar renovation project—timing that proved oddly fortuitous when the pandemic arrived and live concerts were canceled.
A carillon is a musical instrument made up of at least 23 bells arranged to produce a harmonious sound. The bells can be played manually from a keyboard (often with fists) as well as foot pedals, although these days they can also be digitally programmed. Nassor still likes to play it old school.
“It’s an Old World instrument in a New World setting,” says the musician, 64, who grew up in Springfield.
Often found in church towers, carillons rose in popularity in Holland, Belgium and northern France in the 17th century, and were a great source of civic pride. It was said that good bells and good schools were a sign of a wellrun city.
In 1954 the Netherlands gifted a carillon with 49 bells to the United States as a symbol of friendship between the two nations. The bells, made mostly of bronze, were decorated with intricate reliefs depicting various facets of Dutch society, and installed on May 5, 1960—the 15th anniversary of the Netherlands’ liberation from the Nazis—in a custom-built structure near the Iwo Jima memorial, which was then new.
In 1995, on the 50th anniversary of the Dutch liberation, a 50th bell was added to the tower.
Nassor’s first love was the piano. He learned how to play the carillon bells while attending Virginia Commonwealth University in the late 1970s. “When I discovered that bells could be played from a keyboard, I immediately signed up for lessons,” he says.
Returning to Northern Virginia after college, he liked to venture out on summer evenings to sit on the hillside overlooking Washington, D.C., and listen to Carillon recitals amid the fireflies. He was living in Clarendon when he was introduced by a park ranger to Frank Law, then the director-carillonneur, and became Law’s protégé.
When Law died suddenly in 1985, Nassor became Arlington’s carillonneur at the young age of 27. He receives a per diem to play, but also volunteers his time for administrative tasks and advocacy. (Today, he also serves as carillonneur at the Washington National Cathedral and teaches music at Merritt Academy in Fairfax.)
He’s witnessed some poignant moments from his perch high above the Arlington skyline, at times providing a soundtrack for history. “After September 11... people came [to the park] because you could see the Pentagon from there,” he says. “[We] played a patriotic program. People were singing along, sometimes tears were coming down.”
The tower’s location is as symbolic as the bells themselves. “It’s serving the monumental corridor,” he says, noting that the carillon is on an axis with the U.S. Capitol, the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial.
Nassor’s favorite tunes to play are the patriotic ones, like “America the Beautiful,” though he does take requests. “Sometimes I find notes at the bottom of the tower like, ‘Can you play the Darth Vader theme?’ So I’ll work in some Star Wars,” he says. “Occasionally, Beatles tunes. ‘Imagine’ by John Lennon does sound really good on the bells.”
After nearly six decades of use, the carillon was in need of restoration. In late 2019, all 50 bells were sent to the Netherlands for repairs while the tower itself got a face-lift. In the process, the Dutch government gifted three additional bells, elevating the structure to “grand carillon” status. The largest of the three new ones, named for former secretary of state George C. Marshall—the only U.S. general to win a Nobel Peace Prize—weighs nearly 7,600 pounds. It was hoisted into the tower in May.
The rest of the assembly is expected
to be reinstalled this fall, and Nassor couldn’t be more excited. “We will be able to play a greater variety of music,” he says. “With the extra bells, it opens up new keys we can play.”
The timing feels like cosmic serendipity. Soon, the bells symbolizing liberation will be ringing once again, as vaccinations foment a return to the life we knew—the social rituals we no longer take for granted.
“The feeling to actually play at that site is awesome,” Nassor says. “When you look across at the sight line of the monuments, it’s exhilarating. And from the keyboard position, you get the most beautiful sunsets in the world.
“A lot of places, when you’re playing music, it’s a job or a gig,” he adds. “But here, when you play music, it’s an honor and a privilege.” ■
Matt Blitz is a journalist based in Arlington.
For me, the
pandemic
winter was a life-changing gift.Sandner
I’M A SUMMER GUY, eager for heat and Birkenstocks, but last winter forever changed my perspective. I hopped on my bike, despite frigid temperatures, and had my best-ever cycling season.
Previously, I’d been a fair-weather, maybe-on-Sunday cyclist. The pandemic turned me into a full-bore fanatic. Winter streets and bikeways were vacant as I embarked on what would become an almost daily ritual, pedaling west from my home in D.C.’s Shaw neighborhood to Arlington and back. There were no tourist or commuter buses and nary an idling vehicle on the Teddy Roosevelt Bridge. Who could have predicted the opportunity for freewheeling down an empty K Street?
I soon found that biking was a balm for my pandemic angst and feelings of isolation. It was also a recipe for staving off the now infamous Covid-10 (pounds). My outings gave me a feeling of returning to normal—a sense that the world was still moving, even during lockdown.
As my body propelled my hybrid bike forward, my mind would grow more fluid, my intuition often nudging me toward a writing topic, a new work connection or an entrepreneurial idea to pursue. The sound of tire treads meeting asphalt signified progress—the antithesis of pandemic inertia.
Serenity and tranquility are words not typically associated with the D.C. area. This winter proved otherwise. Each time I pedaled toward the sunset, my worries melted away, along with the day’s stress. My bicycle became the ultimate freedom and exploration machine, edging me through cold, sun and rain as never before.
As Cherrydale cyclist Doug Berenson likes to say, quoting an oft-used Scandinavian expression, “There is no bad weather, only bad clothing.” I learned how to layer. Even in 30-degree temps I was good to go.
Evenings are my favorite time to ride, and the colder months presented a stark kind of beauty. Pedaling along the
Debuting in 2022, The Landing is a refined contemporary community for seniors with possibilities just as breathtaking as the views. Here, in one of the D.C. area’s most desirable neighborhoods, Independent Living and Assisted Living go beyond what you ever expected: world-class dining options; a spa, salon, and fitness center; enriching activities and outings. The Landing: senior living, redefined.
To learn more, please contact us at 571-577-6011. Reimagine the
Potomac at dusk, I noted the sounds of migrating geese and the silhouettes of crews rowing toward Rosslyn. The sunsets were often stunning—oranges and pinks—perhaps made even more brilliant by the temporary hiatus from air pollution. On Jan. 19, I was unnerved to glimpse the shadows of armed guards walking the Lincoln Memorial’s attic rim. I loved the unexpected solitude of a snowy Jan. 31 on the Mount Vernon Trail (MVT) near Theodore Roosevelt Island. The hushed quiet of the landscape felt like being inside a Norman Rockwell painting, the lights of Rosslyn’s skyscrapers casting a rosy glow on pillowy clouds.
Sometimes cycling becomes meditative and my mind tells stories. One evening, as I rode the MVT toward Gravelly Point, feeling like Snow White in the dark forest, I rolled out from underneath the 14th Street Bridge and wondered if the gnarly tree branches would snatch me. Fortunately, brightly lit fel-
low athletes shined ahead. I’ve become part of a twilight community of trail riders who customarily nod hello. We don’t know each other’s names, but the faces are familiar.
Arlington offers great vantage points by bike. At the Iwo Jima memorial I had a déjà-vu moment, taking in the same view of the National Mall that, for decades, I’d seen on the opening sequence of Face the Nation . Looking south from the Key Bridge, you can spot the control tower at National Airport and the slate-blue glass of the MGM National Harbor Casino.
The ride west on the Custis Trail from Rosslyn toward Courthouse is an uphill slog. I have been known to reward myself with a little treat for my efforts—a sub from Capriotti’s, a French patisserie from Eclairons, or a walnut brownie and a coffee from Tatte Bakery & Café in Dupont Circle (which is coming soon to Clarendon!).
Since January, I’ve logged more than 2,300 miles on my bike, and I’m not tired of it. The seasons, routes and neighborhoods continually offer new landscapes and new discoveries that keep me pedaling. Maybe it’s in my DNA. I recently turned 58. My dad, who is 93, and my mom, 85, collectively walked 40 miles this past March in cold Delaware, Ohio.
Right now it’s hard to beat the summertime weather. I’ve traded my layers and gloves for bike shorts, and have found plenty of tempting new food and drink stops along the water, between trailheads. But next winter, when the cold returns, I won’t hunker down inside. I’ll still be discovering all that the DMV has to offer on two wheels. ■
Tom Sommers is a D.C.-based writer and analyst, cyclist and LGBTQ and asylum-seeker advocate. @tomsommers1 on Twitter.
Q: What makes you different from other dentists?
GROWING SMILES OF NORTHERN
After receiving their doctorates, Drs. Galliani and Rosenberg completed two-year pediatric specialty programs. Their extensive training encompassed hundreds of pediatric patients, healthy and medically compromised, and patients with special healthcare needs. Additionally, both doctors are highly trained in hospital dentistry and hold privileges at Inova Fairfax Hospital and Pediatric Specialists of Virginia.
80 E. Jefferson St., Suite 400B Falls Church, VA 22046
703-241-5437
www.growingsmilesofnova.com
A: As a pediatric dental office, we offer specialized dentistry for infants, children, adolescents and patients with special needs in a child-friendly and relaxed environment. We enjoy getting to know our patients and their families, and we treat them as we would our own. All treatment plans are specifically tailored to meet each patient's individual needs. And we spend time explaining any issues and recommended treatment to ensure parents are ready to make informed decisions regarding their child's oral health. Our ultimate goal is, through preventative care, to achieve successful outcomes for all our patients, laying the foundation for lifelong oral health.
Q: What brings you the most satisfaction in your work?
A: We love getting to witness children’s transformation from being terrified of the dentist to climbing into the dental chair
with a smile on their face, excited to see us. Though this can sometimes be a lengthy process, it is well worth the wait because when it does finally happen, it's the best feeling in the world!
Q: What is unique about your practice?
A: We are very team-oriented and consider our entire staff to be one big family. We are supportive of each other and want to see each other succeed. Working in such a pleasant and encouraging environment allows us to project that same happiness and tranquility onto our patients. Our whole team is caring, fun, trustworthy and wholly invested in creating the most positive experience possible for every child and family.
Dr. Rogers graduated with honors from Harvard University and received his dental degree from UCLA. Achieving optimal oral health can be life changing. The Fairlington Dental team strives to create a partnership with each patient from the moment they walk through the door. "One of our greatest joys is helping patients smile again," says Dr. Rogers.
4850 31st St., Suite A Arlington, VA 22206
703-671-1001 office@fairlingtondental.com www.fairlingtondental.com
Q: What made you decide to become a dentist?
A: My own childhood experiences with dentistry, both good and bad, led me to this profession. High fevers and the subsequent tetracycline treatment left my permanent teeth stained dark brown and missing most of their enamel. They also didn't push out my baby teeth, so I went through serial extractions and had cavities on almost every tooth. Back then, even with novocaine, the entire experience was unpleasant. After a good experience with my orthodontist, I decided to become a dentist. Given my extensive journey as a dental patient, I can offer my patients a unique empathy.
Q: What makes you different from other dentists?
A: My specialties—jaw development and TMJ disorders and treatment, sleep apnea causes and treatments, cosmetic dentistry and orthodontics—are all optional undertakings in general dentistry.
But I find the most satisfaction in helping patients with such intricate issues, many of which I have also experienced. I have twice been treated with orthodontics, been through TMJ treatment, worn an oral device for sleep apnea for years, benefitted from cosmetic dentistry and I am currently undergoing jaw development treatment. In addition to eliminating my sleep apnea, this will prevent future TMJ and orthodontic issues.
Q: What advice would you offer someone just starting out in your profession?
A: I would remind new dentists that finishing dental school is just a requirement to receive your license. This industry is ever evolving; therefore, continuing education and training are essential. The more you learn, the more you will enjoy your career.
Dr. Maull graduated from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and earned her master's from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Her extensive training includes a Surgical Orthodontic Fellowship at the prestigious NYU Institute of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery. She is uniquely qualified to treat a full spectrum of orthodontic concerns from minimally invasive to very complex.
6845 Elm St., Suite 505 McLean, VA 22101
703-556-9400 www.maullortho.com
Q: What made you want to become an orthodontist?
A: I am very fortunate to work in a field that I genuinely love. One piece of advice I would offer young people is to identify your passion and find a way to make it your life's work. For myself, I found that orthodontics is the perfect combination of science and art (STEAM). I have always loved working with my hands, but I initially studied mechanical engineering. My father worked for NASA so I wanted to be an engineer too. I realized it was not my calling and I became an orthodontist instead. I get to work with my hands and directly help people, which is much more rewarding for me. Every patient is a miniengineering project that must ultimately function well and look beautiful.
Q: What is one thing patients should know about orthodontics?
A: Too often, orthodontics is considered a commodity. Everyone knows there are differences between chefs and hairstylists but are quick to assume the outcome for orthodontic treatment will be the same no matter the provider—some even try DIY! However, the quality of results is directly related to the provider's expertise, judgment and compassion. Teeth are vital to your overall health, especially as we get older. A bad haircut will grow out, but we can't say the same for teeth! By pursuing premier-level orthodontic treatment, you can avoid disease and tooth loss and be confident you'll end up with the gorgeous, healthy smile of your dreams.
CLARENDON DENTAL ARTS
In 2009 at the age of 17, Dr. Grover was one of three candidates accepted to VCU School of Dentistry’s prestigious eight-year guaranteed dental program. While there, she volunteered with Missions of Mercy, providing free dental care to underserved communities in rural Virginia. She completed her residency at the New York Medical College at Metropolitan Hospital.
2700 Clarendon Blvd. Arlington, VA 22201
703-525-5901
cdarts@clarendondentalarts.com www.clarendondentalarts.com
Q: How do you employ new technology to help your patients?
A: We are focused on helping our patients live healthy lives. Oral health is directly linked to systemic health. Therefore, through our “Mouth, Mind, and Body” philosophy, we are committed to empowering patients to include dentistry in their overall health plan. Investing in the latest tools and technologies allows us to do much more than offer diagnoses. Rather than treating patients reactively, dealing with issues only as they arise, we use today's scientific advances and technology to provide conservative and proactive treatment options based on life challenges, genetic risk factors and science. Studying each patient's oral biome enables us to uncover a comprehensive picture that encompasses eating habits, health challenges, breathing patterns and alignment, among other variables that impact oral and systemic health. Taking the time to gather such extensive data and explain
the results to our patients is crucial in developing plans for long-term health. Our goal is not only to create beautiful smiles but to help our patients achieve overall health.
Q: What should prospective patients know about your practice?
A: We are dedicated to creating a caring, personal, calm and comfortable environment, while providing the highest quality of dental care. Our office offers a spa-like atmosphere, and we strive to pamper our patients.
Q: What are your interests outside of work?
A: When I'm not at work, I love spending time with my husband and son. We enjoy exploring the city, hiking, gardening and going out for brunch. I am also interested in art, and I enjoy crafting and painting.
Dr. Brown is a graduate of Georgetown Dental School and an international speaker for TMD. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain and holds memberships with many academies. His extensive knowledge in the combined fields of TMJ, sleep and orthodontics gives him a unique perspective.
2841 Hartland Road, Suite 301 Falls Church, VA 22043
703-821-1103
office@sleepandtmjtherapy.com www.sleepandtmjtherapy.com
Q: What is TMD and how do you treat it?
A: Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction is an internal imbalance of the jaw joints which causes symptoms throughout the body. Symptoms include popping and clicking, limited mouth opening, ringing in the ears, headaches, pain or tenderness in the upper body, and much more. One way we treat TMD is with the use of a bite splint to take pressure off the joints. Another appliance we use is the ALF which is used to ‘align and level’ the bones in the skull. Achieving balance and symmetry internally helps the patient feel much better.
Q: How do you help with sleep issues?
A: We provide small, customized dental appliances to promote healthier breathing habits by opening the airway. Having this support while sleeping reduces the symptoms of snoring, frequent pauses in breathing, feeling of tiredness, irritability and waking up with headaches.
Q: What makes you different from other dentists?
A: Unlike other practices, we focus solely on treating craniofacial disorders and sleep-related issues. Limiting my practice to these areas of care has allowed me to concentrate on what I do best. Every day we see patients of all ages who are searching for help with developmental growth, airway improvement, relief for the symptoms associated with TMJ/TMD and movement disorders. I truly enjoy seeing our patients get their lives back. Once in treatment they can resume normal activities like work and sports—and they sleep much better. That is what it’s all about! To help identify problems early on, we offer complimentary consultations for patients 18 and younger.
Our area’s most respected physicians, as nominated by their peers in the medical community.
The doctors in this feature were selected by Professional Research Services (PRS), which conducted an online peer-review survey of area physicians in Arlington County, Fairfax County, the City of Falls Church and the City of Alexandria. The featured doctors, identified by their peers as outstanding in their fields, were screened and selected through the verification of licensing and a review of any infractions through applicable boards, agencies and rating services. For additional information, visit prscom.com. Arlington Magazine was not involved in the selection process.
Lauren Grawert
Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group
201 N. Washington St., Falls Church Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington, V A Psych Dominion Hospital
Christopher Sendi
Nova Health Recovery 8101 Hinson Farm Road, Suite 201, Alexandria
ALLERGY & IMMUNOLOGY
Sally Bailey
Allergy Associates of Northern Virginia 1715 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 307, Arlington MedStar Georgetown University Hospital
Courtney Blair
Allergy & Asthma Associates 1360 Beverly Road, Suite 103, McLean Reston Hospital Center, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Meredith Heltzer
Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group 8008 Westpark Drive, McLean
Stuart Henochowicz
Internal Medicine & Allergy Associates 6035 Burke Centre Pkwy., Suite 120, Burke
Theodore Kim
Allergy Partners of Northern Virginia 14520 Avion Pkwy., Suite 150, Chantilly
Darlene Mansoor
Pediatric Specialists of Virginia 3023 Hamaker Court, Fairfax Children's National Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital
Patricia McNally
Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group 8008 Westpark Drive, McLean
Richard Rosenthal
Allergy & Asthma Center 8501 Arlington Blvd., Suite 450, Fairfax Inova Fairfax Hospital, Reston Hospital Center
Nithya Swamy
Allergy Partners of Metro DC 3833 N. Fairfax Drive, Suite 350, Arlington
Anita Wasan
Allergy and Asthma Center 6824 Elm St., Suite 120, McLean
Sibley Memorial Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
ANESTHESIOLOGY
David Banks
Dominion Anesthesia Group 1701 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 2D, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Andrea Clark
Dominion Anesthesia Group
1701 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 2D, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Wil Cusano
Dominion Anesthesia Group
1701 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 2D, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Elizabeth Haddad
Dominion Anesthesia Group
1701 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 2D, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
David Lee
Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group
8008 Westpark Drive, McLean
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Trevor Myers
Dominion Anesthesia Group
1701 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 2D,
Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Ashley Nguyen
Dominion Anesthesia Group
1701 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 2D, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Marina Pavlova
Dominion Anesthesia Group
1701 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 2D, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
BREAST SURGERY
Stephanie Akbari
Virginia Cancer Specialists
8503 Arlington Blvd., Suite 340, Fairfax
Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks
Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Sara Bruce
Inova Schar Cancer Institute
8081 Innovation Park Drive, Floor 1,
River Stone Clinic, Fairfax
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital
Costanza Cocilovo
Inova Schar Cancer Institute
8081 Innovation Park Drive, Floor 1, River Stone Clinic, Fairfax
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital
Kirsten Edmiston
Inova Medical Group
3580 Joseph Siewick Drive, Suite 101, Fairfax
Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital
Claire Edwards
VHC Physician Group – Reinsch Pierce
Family Center for Breast Health
1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 315, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Elizabeth Feldman
Virginia Cancer Specialists
1860 Town Center Drive, Suite 460, Reston
Reston Hospital Center
Molly Sebastian
VHC Physician Group – Reinsch Pierce
Family Center for Breast Health
1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 315, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Hernan Vargas
Virginia Cancer Specialists
3650 Joseph Siewick Drive, Suite 200, Fairfax
Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, Reston Hospital Center
CARDIAC SURGERY
Lucas Collazo
Inova Cardiac and Thoracic Surgery
2921 Telestar Court, Suite 140, Falls Church
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital
John Garrett
VHC Physician Group
1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 288, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
John Rhee
VHC Physician Group
1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 288, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Eric Sarin
Inova Cardiac and Thoracic Surgery
2921 Telestar Court, Suite 140, Falls Church
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital
Ramesh Singh
Inova Cardiac and Thoracic Surgery
2921 Telestar Court, Suite 140, Falls Church
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital
Alan Speir
Inova Cardiac and Thoracic Surgery
2921 Telestar Court, Suite 140, Falls Church Inova Fairfax Hospital
Rachel Berger
Virginia Heart
1005 N. Glebe Road, Suite 750, Arlington
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, Reston Hospital Center, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Jeremy Bock
VHC Physician Group
1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 354, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Timothy Farrell
Virginia Heart
1005 N. Glebe Road, Suite 750, Arlington
Reston Hospital Center, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Benjamin Galper
Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group
8008 Westpark Drive, McLean
Inova Fairfax Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Edward Howard
Virginia Heart
1005 N. Glebe Road, Suite 750, Arlington
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, Reston Hospital Center, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Amey Kulkarni
Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group 8008 Westpark Drive, McLean
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Warren Levy
Virginia Heart
1005 N. Glebe Road, Suite 750, Arlington
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, Reston Hospital Center, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Michael Notarianni
Virginia Heart
1005 N. Glebe Road, Suite 750, Arlington
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, Reston Hospital Center, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Antonio Parente
Virginia Heart
1005 N. Glebe Road, Suite 750, Arlington Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, Reston Hospital Center, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
R. Preston Perrin
VHC Physician Group
1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 354, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Hassan Tabandeh
VHC Physician Group
1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 354, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Eric Thorn
VHC Physician Group
1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 354, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
From common to complex cardiac conditions, our specialists are experienced, international leaders in their field. They perform more procedures than anyone in the region and are developing the next generation of surgical techniques and technology. Call today and schedule your visit at one of our convenient locations in Northern Virginia.
ChildrensNational.org/stronger | 1-888-884-BEAR
Rafiq Zaheer
Washington Metropolitan Cardiology
611 S. Carlin Springs Road, Suite 201, Arlington
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Reston Hospital Center, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Donald Colvin
Fairfax Colon & Rectal Surgery
2710 Prosperity Ave., Suite 200, Fairfax
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital
Rodolfo Pigalarga
VHC Physician Group
1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 334, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Craig Rezac
VHC Physician Group
1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 334, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Irfan Rizvi
Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group
8008 Westpark Drive, McLean Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington; Reston Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital
Julia Sone
Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group 6501 Loisdale Court, Springfield Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington; Reston Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital
Daniel Casey
PMA Health
1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 355, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Mary-Margaret Lewis
PMA Health
1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 355, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Nancy Maaty
PMA Health
1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 355, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
David Bray
Alexandria Associates in Dermatology 1900 N. Beauregard St., Suite 110, Alexandria
Anjali Chandela
U.S. Dermatology Partners – Sterling 21495 Ridgetop Circle, Suite 105, Sterling
Chicky Dadlani
Dermatology Associates of McLean 1365 Beverly Road, Floor 2, McLean
Aaron Fuchs
Fuchs Dermatology
611 S. Carlin Springs Road, Suite 502, Arlington
Glenn Fuchs
Fuchs Dermatology
611 S. Carlin Springs Road, Suite 502, Arlington
Courtney Herbert
FDL Dermatology
1005 N. Glebe Road, Suite 540, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Terrence Keaney
SkinDC
1525 Wilson Blvd., Suite 125, Arlington
George Washington University Hospital
Randa Khoury
Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group
6501 Loisdale Court, Springfield Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Matthew Livingood
Arlington Dermatology
801 N. Quincy St., Suite 210, Arlington
Patricia Lucey
Tamjidi Skin Institute
8100 Boone Blvd., Suite 300, Vienna Inova Fairfax Hospital
Missale Mesfin
Forefront Dermatology
8301 Old Courthouse Road, Vienna
Mark Naftanel
Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group
201 N. Washington St., Falls Church Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Lina Naga
SkinDC
1525 Wilson Blvd., Suite 125, Arlington
Michelle Rivera
ArlingtonSkin
1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 400, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
William Sawchuk
William S. Sawchuk, MD
8320 Old Courthouse Road, Suite 303, Vienna
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Suraj Venna
Inova Schar Cancer Institute
8081 Innovation Park Drive, Floor 5, Chesapeake Clinic, Fairfax
Inova Fairfax Hospital
EMERGENCY MEDICINE
Wendy Bloom
VHC Department of Emergency Medicine
1701 N. George Mason Drive, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Darren Morris
VHC Department of Emergency Medicine
1701 N. George Mason Drive, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
John Sverha
VHC Department of Emergency Medicine 1701 N. George Mason Drive, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
ENDOCRINOLOGY, DIABETES, & METABOLISM
Denise Armellini
The Endocrine Center
3025 Hamaker Court, Suite 400, Fairfax
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Thien-Giang Bach-Huynh
The Endocrinology Group
200 Park Ave., Falls Church Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Kevin Donohue
The Endocrinology Group
8316 Arlington Blvd., Suite 310, Fairfax Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Christina Go
The Endocrinology Group
8316 Arlington Blvd., Suite 310, Fairfax Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Caroline Huang
The Endocrinology Group
200 Park Ave., Falls Church
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Massoud Saberinia
Dr. Saberinia | Endocrinologist in Northern Virginia
1715 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 408, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
FAMILY MEDICINE
Natasha Beauvais
Northern Virginia Family Practice
1703 N. Beauregard St., Suite 410, Alexandria
Inova Alexandria Hospital
Cecily Havert
Northern Virginia Family Practice 1703 N. Beauregard St., Suite 410, Alexandria
Inova Fairfax Hospital
Jennifer Neria
PMA Health
500 W. Annandale Road, Falls Church Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Michael Silverstein
Herndon Family Medicine
381 Elden St., Suite 1000, Herndon
GASTROENTEROLOGY
Tonya Adams
Gastro Health
3028 Javier Road, Suite 300, Fairfax
Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital
Deborah Brauer
Digestive Disease Physicians
4660 Kenmore Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria
Inova Alexandria Hospital
Pradeep Gupta
Gastroenterology Center of Northern Virginia
1715 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 204, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Sean Hurley
Digestive Disease Physicians
4660 Kenmore Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria
Inova Alexandria Hospital
Asma Khapra
Gastro Health
3700 Joseph Siewick Drive, Suite 308, Fairfax
Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital
Diego Kuperschmit
Gastroenterology Center of Northern Virginia
1715 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 204, Arlington
Inova Fairfax Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Martin Prosky
Northern Virginia Gastrointestinal Associates
3301 Woodburn Road, Suite 107, Annandale
Inova Fairfax Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Truc Trinh
Gastroenterology Center of Northern Virginia
1715 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 204, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Emil Valle
The Gastroenterology Group
1939 Roland Clarke Place, Suite 200, Reston Reston Hospital Center
Eric Wollins
Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group
201 N. Washington St., Falls Church
Inova Fairfax Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington, Reston Hospital Center
Gao Chen
Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group
12255 Fair Lakes Pkwy., Fairfax
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
C. Steeve David
VHC Physician Group – Surgical Specialists
1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 334, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
For over thirty years patients have trusted Virginia Heart to provide the most advanced treatments and procedures. Our team of specialists treat the full spectrum of cardiovascular and sleep conditions including arrhythmias, vascular conditions, structural heart disease and sleep apnea – using treatments that are at the forefront of innovation.
You can trust your heart and sleep care to Virginia Heart and our promise of compassion, communication, and expertise in every patient encounter and experience.
Congratulations to our physicians who earned the Arlington Magazine Top Doctors honors:
Rachel L. Berger, MD, FACC
Timothy P. Farrell, MD, FACC
Edward W. Howard, MD, FACC, RPVI
Warren S. Levy, MD, FACC
Michael P. Notarianni, MD, FACC
Antonio R. Parente, MD, FACC
Amit V. Patel, MD, FACC
Gwendolyn Garnett
Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group
6501 Loisdale Court, Springfield
Inova Fairfax Hospital
Teruaki Kodama
Fairfax Surgical Group
8316 Arlington Blvd., Suite 602, Fairfax Inova Fairfax Hospital
Marcelo Kuperschmit
Inova Medical Group
1715 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 403, Arlington
Inova Fairfax Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Chaitanya Mangalmurti
Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group 12255 Fair Lakes Pkwy., Fairfax Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Mami Martin
Inova Medical Group 1715 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 403, Arlington
Inova Fairfax Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Brett Sachse
Surgical Consultants of Northern Virginia 1830 Town Center Drive, Suite 102, Reston Reston Hospital Center
J. R. Salameh
VHC Physician Group – Surgical Specialists
1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 334, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
GENETICS
Patricia Rodriguez
Virginia Cancer Specialists
1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 170, Arlington
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Harvey Stern
Genetics & IVF Institute
3015 Williams Drive, Suite 300, Fairfax Inova Fairfax Hospital
GERIATRIC MEDICINE
Joanne Crantz
Joanne G. Crantz, MD 8316 Arlington Blvd., Suite 615, Fairfax
Annette Bicher
Mid Atlantic Gynecologic Oncology and Pelvic Surgery Associates 8081 Innovation Park Drive, Suite 775, Fairfax
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital
John Elkas
Mid Atlantic Gynecologic Oncology and Pelvic Surgery Associates
8081 Innovation Park Drive, Suite 775, Fairfax
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, Reston Hospital Center, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Ruchi Garg
Mid Atlantic Gynecologic Oncology and Pelvic Surgery Associates
8081 Innovation Park Drive, Suite 775, Fairfax
Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, Reston Hospital Center, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
G. Scott Rose
Mid Atlantic Gynecologic Oncology and Pelvic Surgery Associates
8081 Innovation Park Drive, Suite 775, Fairfax
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, Reston Hospital Center
Diljeet Singh
Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group 8008 Westpark Drive, McLean Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Subir Jossan
The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics –Prince William Orthopaedics
3650 Joseph Siewick Drive, Suite 300, Fairfax
Reston Hospital Center
Jeffrey Lovallo
Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic
2445 Army Navy Drive, Suite 400, Arlington
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Mount Vernon Hospital
Cassie Root
Nirschl Orthopaedic Center for Sports Medicine and Joint Restoration
1715 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 504, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Peter Thomas
OrthoVirginia
1920 Ballenger Ave., Suite 200, Alexandria
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
HEMATOLOGY & ONCOLOGY
Robert Christie
Virginia Cancer Specialists
1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 170, Arlington
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Anne Favret
Virginia Cancer Specialists
8503 Arlington Blvd., Suite 400, Fairfax
Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital
John Feigert
Virginia Cancer Specialists
1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 170, Arlington
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Dipti Patel-Donnelly
Virginia Cancer Specialists
8503 Arlington Blvd., Suite 400, Fairfax
Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital
Patricia Rodriguez
Virginia Cancer Specialists
1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 170, Arlington
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Keeran Sampat
Virginia Cancer Specialists
1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 170, Arlington
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Alexander Spira
Virginia Cancer Specialists
8503 Arlington Blvd., Suite 400, Fairfax
Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, Reston Hospital Center, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
HOSPICE & PALLIATIVE MEDICINE
Jessica Heintz
Virginia Cancer Specialists
1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 170, Arlington
Inova Fairfax Hospital
Muhammad Siddiqui
Virginia Cancer Specialists
8503 Arlington Blvd., Suite 400, Fairfax
Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital
INFECTIOUS DISEASE
Nhat Doan
Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group 6501 Loisdale Court, Springfield
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington, Reston Hospital Center
William Furlong
William Furlong, MD 1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 440, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Rohit Modak
VHC Physician Group 1715 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 305, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Ligia Pic-Aluas
Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group 6501 Loisdale Court, Springfield Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington, Reston Hospital Center
Jennifer Primeggia
VHC Physician Group 1715 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 305, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Ian Seemungal
VHC Physician Group 1715 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 305, Arlington
Inova Fairfax Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
n Multidisciplinary team approach
n Highly specialized medical oncology, hematology, radiation therapy, orthopedic oncology/surgery, breast surgery, thoracic surgery, genetic counseling, palliative medicine and research
n Highly-rated physicians and surgeons in our community
n State-of-the-art technology, labs, and on-site pharmacy
n Access to Clinical Trials, including Phase I
David Yoho
Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group
6501 Loisdale Court, Springfield Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington, Reston Hospital Center
INTERNAL MEDICINE
Paula Bergamini
Arlington Primary Care
1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 490, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
M. Anthony Casolaro
MD2 McLean
1750 Tysons Blvd., Suite 1160, Tysons Corner
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
John Charalambopoulos
VHC Physician Group
1701 N. George Mason Drive, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Ritu Cuttica
PMA Health
500 W. Annandale Road, Falls Church Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Kathryn Dreger
Prime PLC
1715 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 306, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Christina Malekiani
VHC Physician Group – Primary Care
Arlington 2800 Shirlington Road, Suite 500, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Timothy Muir
PMA Health
500 W. Annandale Road, Falls Church
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Anthony Rimicci
Arlington Primary Care
1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 490, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Christopher Walsh
VHC Physician Group – Primary Care
Arlington 2800 Shirlington Road, Suite 500, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Suzanne Wittig
MD2 McLean
1750 Tysons Blvd., Suite 1160, Tysons Corner
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Myriam Ferzli
VHC Physician Group
1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 190, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Kristin Knight
Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group 8008 Westpark Drive, McLean
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Kelly Orzechowski
VHC Physician Group
1701 N. George Mason Drive, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
John Galiote
Children’s National Hospital – Neonatology 1701 N. George Mason Drive, Floor 2, Arlington
Children’s National Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
NEPHROLOGY
Ali Assefi
Nephrology Associates of Northern Virginia 13135 Lee Jackson Memorial Hwy., Suite 135, Fairfax
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, Reston Hospital Center
Ranjit Cheriyan
Virginia Nephrology Group
3930 Walnut St., Suite 101, Fairfax
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Paul Modlinger
Virginia Nephrology Group
1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 215, Arlington
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Thomas Rakowski
Virginia Nephrology Group
1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 215, Arlington
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
“ We appreciate that Chesterbrook has a small number of residents, is a nonprofit, and provides a warm, relaxed atmosphere that demonstrates a sense of security to residents and families.”
- Jyl P., Resident Family Member
Schedule your personal tour today!
703-531-0781 | chesterbrookres.org 2030 Westmoreland St. | Falls Church Lessthan5milesfromLakeBarcroft!
Irmindra Rana
Kidney Diseases, Hypertension & Primary Care of Virginia
611 S. Carlin Springs Road, Suite 301, Arlington
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Mount Vernon Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Renuka Sothinathan
Virginia Nephrology Group
1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 215, Arlington
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
James Bicksel
Capital Neurology Services
6862 Elm St., Suite 450, McLean Inova Fairfax Hospital
Candace Bryan
Neurology Center of Fairfax 3020 Hamaker Court, Suite 400, Fairfax
Matthew Churchill
Neurology Center of Fairfax 3020 Hamaker Court, Suite 400, Fairfax Inova Fairfax Hospital
Eric Czander
Northern Virginia Neurologic Associates 1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 420, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Nicole Dietz
Neurology Center of Fairfax 3020 Hamaker Court, Suite 400, Fairfax
Benny Kim
The GW Medical Faculty Associates 1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 344, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Robert Kurtzke
Neurology Center of Fairfax 3020 Hamaker Court, Suite 400, Fairfax
Margaret Perrin
Northern Virginia Neurologic Associates 1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 420, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Faye Rosenbaum
Northern Virginia Neurologic Associates 1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 420, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Terry Watkin
Pediatric Specialists of Virginia 3023 Hamaker Court, Fairfax Inova Fairfax Hospital
NEUROSURGERY
Sidhartha Chandela
Inova Medical Group 8081 Innovation Park Drive, Suite 900, Fairfax
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, Inova Mount Vernon Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Abraham Kader
Virginia Neurosurgeons 1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 445, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Richard Murray
Virginia Neurosurgeons
1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 445, Arlington
Reston Hospital Center, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Nikhil Nayak
Virginia Neurosurgeons
1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 445, Arlington
Reston Hospital Center, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Nilesh Vyas
Inova Medical Group 8081 Innovation Park Drive, Suite 900, Fairfax
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Mount Vernon Hospital
Joseph Watson
Cerebrum MD
8230 Boone Blvd., Suite 360, Vienna Inova Fairfax Hospital, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Reston Hospital Center
OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY
Colleen Borelli
Northern Virginia Physicians to Women 1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 300, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Mary Crowther
VHC Physician Group
1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 325, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
J. Jeffrey Elliott
Northern Virginia Physicians to Women 1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 300, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Susanne Lashgari Prather
Northern Virginia Physicians to Women 1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 300, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Lynsey Owen
VHC Physician Group
1701 N. George Mason Drive, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Amy Porter
Healthcare for Women
1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 474, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Mark Falls
Northern Virginia Center for Eye Care 8150 Leesburg Pike, Suite 909, Vienna Inova Fairfax Hospital
Andrew Holzman
TLC Laser Eye Centers
7930 Jones Branch Drive, Suite 250, McLean
Melissa Kern
Arlington Loudoun Pediatric Ophthalmology
1420 Beverly Road, Suite 110, McLean Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Mary Beth McAteer
Northern Virginia Ophthalmology Associates 6231 Leesburg Pike, Suite 608, Falls Church
Rajesh Rajpal
See Clearly Vision Group 8138 Watson St., McLean Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
A. Wali Ziayee
Arlington Eye Care 1715 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 207, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Christopher Annunziata OrthoVirginia
1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 310, Arlington
Inova Fairfax Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Nigel Azer
Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic 2445 Army Navy Drive, Suite 400, Arlington
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Mount Vernon Hospital
George Branche, III
Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic 2445 Army Navy Drive, Suite 400, Arlington
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Mount Vernon Hospital
Matthew Buchanan
Nirschl Orthopaedic Center for Sports Medicine and Joint Restoration 1715 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 504, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
C. Anderson Engh, Jr.
Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic 2445 Army Navy Drive, Suite 400, Arlington
Inova Mount Vernon Hospital
Kevin Fricka
Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic 2445 Army Navy Drive, Suite 400, Arlington Inova Mount Vernon Hospital
Emily Hattwick
Pediatric Specialists of Virginia 3023 Hamaker Court, Fairfax
Children’s National Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital
Steven Neufeld
The Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Center 2922 Telestar Court, Falls Church
Inova Fairfax Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Ronald Paik
Nirschl Orthopaedic Center for Sports Medicine and Joint Restoration 1715 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 504, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
David Romness
OrthoVirginia
1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 310, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Thomas Sanders
The Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Center
2922 Telestar Court, Falls Church
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Mount Vernon Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Corey Wallach
Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic
2445 Army Navy Drive, Suite 400, Arlington Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Mount Vernon Hospital
Clay Wellborn
Nirschl Orthopaedic Center for Sports Medicine and Joint Restoration 1715 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 504, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Josef Gurian
Ear, Nose and Throat Specialists of Northern Virginia
8314-C Traford Lane, Springfield
Inova Fairfax Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Edwin Lee
Reston Ear, Nose & Throat 1860 Town Center Drive, Suite 335, Reston
Reston Hospital Center, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Ashley O’Reilly
Ear, Nose and Throat Specialists of Northern Virginia
1005 N. Glebe Road, Suite 500, Arlington
Inova Fairfax Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Thomas Pilkington
Arlington ENT Associates 1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 250, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Michelle Roeser
Ear, Nose and Throat Specialists of Northern Virginia
1005 N. Glebe Road, Suite 500, Arlington
Inova Fairfax Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Scott Spagnoli
Arlington ENT Associates 1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 250, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
PAIN MEDICINE
Abraham Cherrick
National Spine & Pain Centers 6355 Walker Lane, Suite 507, Alexandria
Greg David Fischer
Horizon Spine & Pain Specialists 8301 Arlington Blvd., Suite 102, Fairfax Inova Fairfax Hospital
Assaf Gordon
National Spine & Pain Centers 3803 N. Fairfax Drive, Suite 400, Arlington
Daniel Kendall
National Spine & Pain Centers 1420 Spring Hill Road, Suite 210, McLean
Ramatia Mahboobi
National Spine & Pain Centers 6355 Walker Lane, Suite 507, Alexandria
Marina Protopapas
National Spine & Pain Centers 3620 Joseph Siewick Drive, Suite 101, Fairfax Reston Hospital Center
PATHOLOGY
Cary Poropatich
Virginia Hospital Center 1701 N. George Mason Drive, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Stephanie Soofer
Virginia Hospital Center 1710 N. George Mason Drive, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
PEDIATRIC ENDOCRINOLOGY
Kathleen Link
Pediatric Specialists of Virginia 3023 Hamaker Court, Fairfax Inova Fairfax Hospital
PEDIATRIC GASTROENTEROLOGY
Catherine Chao
Pediatric Specialists of Virginia 3700 Joseph Siewick Drive, Suite 202, Fairfax Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital
PEDIATRIC HEMATOLOGY & ONCOLOGY
Carly Varela
Pediatric Specialists of Virginia
8081 Innovation Park Drive, Suite 765, Bldg. B, Fairfax
Children’s National Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital
Elizabeth Yang
Pediatric Specialists of Virginia 8081 Innovation Park Drive, Suite 765, Bldg. B, Fairfax
Inova Fairfax Hospital
PEDIATRIC INFECTIOUS DISEASE
Daniel Keim
Pediatric Specialists of Virginia 3023 Hamaker Court, Fairfax Inova Fairfax Hospital
Rebecca Levorson
Pediatric Specialists of Virginia 3023 Hamaker Court, Fairfax Inova Fairfax Hospital
PEDIATRIC NEPHROLOGY
Patricia Seo-Mayer
Pediatric Specialists of Virginia 3023 Hamaker Court, Fairfax Inova Fairfax Hospital
PEDIATRICS (GENERAL)
Bassam Atiyeh
Northern Virginia Pediatric Associates 107 N. Virginia Ave., Falls Church Inova Fairfax Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Mary Garrett
Pediatrics of Arlington 1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 185, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Jacqueline Hoang
Pediatric Associates of Springfield 5502 Backlick Road, Springfield Inova Fairfax Hospital
Nancy Kim
Pediatrics of Arlington 1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 185, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Elizabeth Livingood
The Kidz Docs 1451 Belle Haven Road, Suite 110, Alexandria
Tiffany Lynne Meyer
NOVA Pediatrics
6120 Brandon Ave., Suite 308, Springfield
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital
Laurie Moore
Pediatric Associates of Springfield 5502 Backlick Road, Springfield Inova Fairfax Hospital
Ely Mouchahoir
Northern Virginia Pediatric Associates 107 N. Virginia Ave., Falls Church Inova Fairfax Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Alison Pease
Pediatrics of Arlington 1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 185, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Sonia Singh
Pediatric Associates of Springfield 5502 Backlick Road, Springfield
Inova Fairfax Hospital
PHYSICAL MEDICINE & REHABILITATION
Edward Allcock
VHC Physician Group
1715 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 305, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Niteesh Bharara
Virginia Spine Institute 11800 Sunrise Valley Drive, Reston Reston Hospital Center
Daniel Davis
VHC Physician Group
1715 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 305, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
PLASTIC & RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY
Erica Anderson
The Naderi Center for Plastic Surgery & Dermatology
1850 Town Center Pkwy., Pavillion 2, Suite 551, Reston
Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital
George Bitar
Bitar Cosmetic Surgery Institute
3023 Hamaker Court, Suite 109, Fairfax Inova Fairfax Hospital
Christopher Chang
Christopher C. Chang, MD
8100 Boone Blvd., Suite 720, Vienna
Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, Sibley Memorial Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Gloria Duda
McLean Plastic Surgery
6845 Elm St., Suite 708, McLean
Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
James Economides
Advanced Plastic Surgery Center
1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 380, Arlington
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, Inova Mount Vernon Hospital, Reston Hospital Center, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
William Epps
Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group
8008 Westpark Drive, McLean
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington, Reston Hospital Center
Wendy Gottlieb
Wendy Gottlieb, MD
1800 Town Center Drive, Suite 418, Reston
Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, Reston Hospital Center, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Earl Johnson
Dominion Plastic Surgery
2755 Hartland Road, Suite 300, Falls Church
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, Inova Mount Vernon Hospital, Reston Hospital Center, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Vineet Mehan
Dominion Plastic Surgery
2755 Hartland Road, Suite 300, Falls Church
Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, Reston Hospital Center, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Alex Mesbahi
National Center for Plastic Surgery 7601 Lewinsville Road, Suite 400, McLean
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Reza Mirali
Plastic Surgery & Dermatology Associates 8501 Arlington Blvd., Suite 310, Fairfax
Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital
Talal Munasifi
Advanced Plastic Surgery Center 1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 380, Arlington
Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Maurice Nahabedian
National Center for Plastic Surgery 7601 Lewinsville Road, Suite 400, McLean
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, Inova Mount Vernon Hospital, Sibley Memorial Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Marilyn Nguyen
VHC Physician Group 1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 315, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Byron Poindexter
Austin-Weston, The Center for Cosmetic Surgery
1825 Samuel Morse Drive, Reston Inova Fair Oaks Hospital
Chun Rhim
Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group 8008 Westpark Drive, McLean Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Navin Singh
Washingtonian Plastic Surgery 7601 Lewinsville Road, Suite 300, McLean
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, Inova Mount Vernon Hospital, Sibley Memorial Hospital, Reston Hospital Center, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Yongsook Victoria Suh
Victoria Plastic Surgery Center 8503 Arlington Blvd., Suite 130, Fairfax Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital
Morad Tavallali
Tavallali Plastic Surgery 8245 Boone Blvd., Suite 540, Vienna Inova Fairfax Hospital
Mark Venturi
National Center for Plastic Surgery 7601 Lewinsville Road, Suite 400, McLean
Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, Inova Mount Vernon Hospital, Sibley Memorial Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
PSYCHIATRY
Randolph Frank Jr.
Randolph Frank Jr., MD
1715 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 304, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Thomas Jacob
Thomas N. Jacob, MD
1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 240, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Ayesha Mian
Ayesha Mian, MD
4601 N. Fairfax Drive , Suite 1200, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Sashi Putchakayala
Sashi Putchakayala, MD
3833 Fairfax Drive, Suite 450, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Todd Rankin
Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group 8008 Westpark Drive, McLean
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington; V A Psych Dominion Hospital
Niku Singh
Tysons Psychiatry
8357-B Greensboro Drive, McLean
PULMONARY DISEASE
David Duhamel
PMA Health
1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 355, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Jeff Hales
PMA Health
1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 355, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Eric Libré
Northern Virginia Pulmonary & Critical Care Associates
3289 Woodburn Road, Suite 350, Annandale Inova Fairfax Hospital
Neil Shea
PMA Health
1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 355, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Christopher Wyckoff
PMA Health
1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 355, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
RADIATION ONCOLOGY
Harold Agbahiwe
Virginia Cancer Specialists
10301 Democracy Lane, Fairfax
Gopal Bajaj
Radiation Oncology Associates of Northern Virginia
8081 Innovation Park Drive, Building B, Fairfax
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital
Robert Hong
Arlington & Reston Radiation Oncology 1701 N. George Mason Drive, Arlington Reston Hospital Center, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Nadim Nasr
Arlington & Reston Radiation Oncology 1701 N. George Mason Drive, Arlington Reston Hospital Center, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Gregory Sibley
Virginia Cancer Specialists
10301 Democracy Lane, Fairfax Reston Hospital Center, Inova Fairfax Hospital
RADIOLOGY
Michael Jay
Northern Virginia Radiology Consultants
1701 N. George Mason Drive, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Ivan Petrovitch
Northern Virginia Radiology Consultants
1701 N. George Mason Drive, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Claude Raphael
Northern Virginia Radiology Consultants
1701 N. George Mason Drive, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Matthew Sandusky
Northern Virginia Radiology Consultants 1701 N. George Mason Drive, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
REPRODUCTIVE ENDOCRINOLOGY / INFERTILITY
Michael DiMattina
Dominion Fertility
4040 N. Fairfax Drive, Suite 600, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Eric Levens
Shady Grove Fertility
8501 Arlington Blvd., Suite 500, Fairfax Inova Fairfax Hospital
Anitha Nair
Shady Grove Fertility
901 N. Stuart St., Suite 610, Arlington
Sibley Memorial Hospital
Andrea Reh
Shady Grove Fertility
901 N. Stuart St., Suite 610, Arlington
MedStar Georgetown University Hospital
RHEUMATOLOGY
Claudia Abujrab-Saba
Northern Virginia Center for Arthritis
1860 Town Center Drive, Suite 130, Reston
Phong Nguyen
Northern Virginia Center for Arthritis
1860 Town Center Drive, Suite 130, Reston
SLEEP MEDICINE
Richard Cho
Neurology Center of Fairfax
1830 Town Center Drive, Suite 305, Reston Reston Hospital Center
Ashtaad Dalal
PMA Health
500 W. Annandale Road, Falls Church
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Amit Patel
Virginia Heart
2901 Telestar Court, Suite 200, Falls Church
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Lawrence Stein
PMA Health
1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 355, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
SPORTS MEDICINE
Anthony Avery
OrthoVirginia
1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 310, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Peter MacArthur
Inova Medical Group
1005 N. Glebe Road, Suite 410, Arlington
Inova Fairfax Hospital
John Tabacco
PMA Health
510 W. Annandale Road, Suite 100, Falls Church
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
THORACIC SURGERY
Sandeep Khandhar
Virginia Cancer Specialists
8613 Lee Hwy., Fairfax
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital
UROLOGY
Gregory Bernstein
VHC Physician Group
1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 454, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Sameer Deshmukh
Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group
12255 Fair Lakes Pkwy., Fairfax
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington, Reston
Hospital Center
James Jezior
Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group 12255 Fair Lakes Pkwy., Fairfax
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington, Reston Hospital Center
Andrew Joel
VHC Physician Group
1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 454, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Timothy Kim
Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group 8008 Westpark Drive, McLean
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington, Reston Hospital Center
Robert Mordkin
VHC Physician Group 1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 454, Arlington
Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Tiffany Sotelo
Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group 12255 Fair Lakes Pkwy., Fairfax
Inova Fairfax Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
VASCULAR / INTERVENTIONAL RADIOLOGY
Rohit Koppula
Northern Virginia Radiology Consultants
1701 N. George Mason Drive, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Christian Malalis
Northern Virginia Radiology Consultants 1701 N. George Mason Drive, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Christina Marks
Northern Virginia Radiology Consultants 1701 N. George Mason Drive, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Russell McWey
Northern Virginia Radiology Consultants 1701 N. George Mason Drive, Arlington Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Murat Sor
HealthQare Associates 3833 Fairfax Drive, Suite 400, Arlington
VASCULAR SURGERY
Maseer Bade
Inova Vascular
2921 Telestar Court , Suite 100, Falls Church
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, Virginia Hospital Center – Arlington
Priya Thirumlai
Center for Vein Restoration
1500 N. Beauregard St., Suite 210, Alexandria Inova Fairfax Hospital
LEFT TO RIGHT: DR. BEATRICE "LAURIE" MOORE, DR. JACQUELINE HOANG, DR. SONIA SINGH, DR. ANGELA UY
“We understand that kids differ from adults — they have their own health care needs that require special skills, attention and patience. At Pediatric Associates of Springfield, our priority is to provide the best individualized care and to foster trust through open communication. We empower parents and patients with practical and evidence-based knowledge so they can take control of their own health and happiness.”
5502 Backlick Road Springfield, VA 22151
703-642-8306
www.pediatricspringfield.com
Creating an inclusive, safe and caring environment is at the heart of everything Pediatric Associates of Springfield does as a medical practice. They have served the Northern Virginia area for over 30 years. Doctors and staff commit fully to providing exceptional and compassionate medical care for children, starting from the moment they are born to the time they enter young adulthood. Their practice is LGBTQ-friendly and a safe space for transgender individuals.
All physicians at Pediatric Associates of Springfield are board certified by the American Board of Pediatrics. They have decades of experience combined. Every doctor has had extra training in treating behavioral and mental health.
During the pandemic, families have been pushing aside all kinds of medical priorities, from routine physicals and vaccines to significant mental/emotional health problems. “After over a year of virtual learning, we have been seeing a significant increase in weight gain
of 20 to 30 pounds. Equally alarming is the spike in cases of anxiety and depression,” says Dr. Jacqueline Hoang. “The pandemic has put children at greater risk for type two diabetes, high cholesterol, asthma and Vitamin D deficiency.”
Schools will likely re-open this fall and team sports will resume. By making sure children are up to date with annual checkups or sports physicals and vaccines early this summer, parents can avoid the last-minute rush causing delay in school re-entry or participation in team sports. All patients and parents can rest easy knowing that the practice follows safe COVID protocols. Alternatively, parents may set up tele-medicine visits with a doctor to discuss any concerns they may have.
THE CENTERS FOR ADVANCED ORTHOPAEDICS
Total ankle replacements; Minimally invasive bunion/hammertoe corrections; Sports medicine and arthroscopic surgery; Diabetic foot and wound care (in-house wound center); Podiatric non-operative foot and toenail care; Physical therapy; Stem-cell injections; Custom-made orthotics and braces (in-house lab); Retail store with physician-approved footwear and products
1550 Wilson Blvd, Suite 640 Arlington, VA 22209
InfoFootAnkleDC@cfaortho.com www.footankledc.com
For over 20 years, the Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Center (OFAC) has been the only center in Northern Virginia that focuses entirely on the foot and ankle. Its physicians are experts and leaders in the field. “As orthopaedic surgeons, we understand how one area of the body affects other parts,” says founder Dr. Steven Neufeld. “We apply that knowledge and experience to traditional and innovative surgical and nonsurgical treatments.” All of OFAC’s surgeons have completed a five-year orthopaedic surgery residency and a one-year foot and ankle fellowship. All are researchers, educators and physician mentors.
Designated as Top Doctors in Washingtonian, Northern VA and Arlington magazines, OFAC treats patients of all ages, including recreational and professional athletes. Its boardcertified orthopaedic surgeons are pioneers and leaders in minimally invasive foot surgery, including bunion correction. Their expertise includes total
ankle replacements, sports injuries, dance medicine, trauma and complex reconstructions.
OFAC is committed to providing their patients the most advanced diagnostic and treatment tools available. “We are the only facility in the region with a weight-bearing CT scanner, which allows us to better diagnose and treat complicated problems,” adds Dr. Daniel Cuttica. In addition, on-site physical therapy utilizes advanced techniques, including laser therapy and dry needling to help achieve optimal function and performance.
OFAC’s in-house orthotics lab allows for same-day custom orthotics and braces. “This technology allows for precise accommodations and corrections, as adjustments can be made during the patient’s visit,” says Dr. Thomas Sanders. OFAC also utilizes regenerative medicine techniques, such as stem-cell and PRP injections, and shockwave therapy as alternatives to surgical treatment.
“This is hands down the best experience I’ve had at a doctor’s office. From start to finish, everyone I came in contact with was pleasant and knowledgeable. I am very thankful for this practice and will recommend it to everyone I know. Thank you!”
500 and 510 W. Annandale Road Falls Church, VA 22046
3301 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA 22201
Virginia Hospital Center
1625 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 355 Arlington, VA 22205
703-521-6662
www.mypmahealth.com
practice of top-rated physicians providing primary care, internal medicine, immediate care and specialties, including pulmonology, critical care, sleep medicine, sports medicine, travel medicine and aesthetics. The partnership with Privia Medical Group enables PMA Health to provide all the latest advances in medicine to help their patients remain healthy and better manage disease by offering access to innovative health management technologies, proactive team-based care and an evidenced-based, patient-centered approach.
PMA Health has more than 30 providers in four offices in Falls Church and Arlington—including a new facility opened in the midst of the pandemic to fill the need for primary and immediate care in the heart of Clarendon.
PMA Health’s Immediate Care centers in Clarendon and Falls Church offer virtual and walk-in visits with shorter wait times than a hospital emergency department, as well as lower costs and out-of-pocket expenses. Their providers coordinate with
don’t have one they can provide you with one. The team of providers is focused on preventive and emergent care and has the expertise and resources to treat all types of medical conditions.
Established in 1961 as a communitybased practice, PMA Health has always focused on strong and trusted patient/ provider relationships and excellent clinical care. And although the practice has grown in size and disciplines over the years, their care continues to be delivered in a personalized manner, emphasizing mutual respect and open communication. All of their providers are board certified and recognized by both their patients and medical peers for extraordinary levels of expertise and patient care. Many of the PMA providers have a teaching affiliation with either Georgetown University or George Washington University and they dedicate their time training the providers of tomorrow.
Featured in left and right photos: PMA Health's Top Doctors:
DANIEL CASEY, MD
Critical Care Medicine
RITU CUTTICA, DO
Internal Medicine
ASHTAAD DALAL, MD
Sleep Medicine
DAVID DUHAMEL, MD
Pulmonary Disease and Critical Care Medicine
JEFF HALES, MD
Pulmonary Disease and Critical Care Medicine
MARY-MARGARET LEWIS, MD
Critical Care Medicine
NANCY MAATY, MD
Critical Care Medicine
TIMOTHY MUIR, MD
Internal Medicine
JENNIFER NERIA, MD
Family Medicine
NEIL SHEA, MD
Pulmonary Disease and Critical Care Medicine
LAWRENCE STEIN, MD
Sleep Medicine
JOHN TABACCO, MD
Sports Medicine
CHRISTOPHER WYCKOFF, MD
Pulmonary Disease and Critical Care Medicine
TALAL MUNASIFI, MD
JAMES ECONOMIDES, MD
Awards/Honors
Arlington Magazine Top Doctors Washingtonian Top Doctors Castle Connelly Top Doctors Faces of Washington
1635 N. George Mason Drive Suite 380, Zone B Arlington, VA 22205
703-841-0399
www.advancedplasticsurgerycenter.com @DrEconomides
Dr. Talal Munasifi and Dr. James Economides of Advanced Plastic Surgery Center in Arlington, VA, are Board Certified Plastic Surgeons specializing in aesthetic treatments of the face, breast and body.
“We are constantly and continuously researching and trialing new technologies,” says Dr. Economides. “We are the only center in the metropolitan region with such an extensive selection of surgical and non-surgical services that naturally complement each other.”
Dr. Munasifi enjoys teaching the plastic surgery residents from Georgetown University Hospital, while Dr. Economides is extensively published with over 30 plastic surgery publications, many national and international lectures, and several textbook chapters. He also reviews research manuscripts for several national plastic surgery publications.
As patients are increasingly educated about the full range of surgical and nonsurgical options, a modern
consultation has become a conversation with the patient regarding several modalities to help them achieve their goals. Drs. Economides and Munasifi are most satisfied when they see the transformation in people’s lives after helping them achieve their goals. “We consistently are noted for our natural results,” says Dr. Munasifi. “When consulting with patients, we take great pains to understand their concerns to deliver high quality results.”
AMY WILLIAMSON, MS, LCGC
PATRICIA RODRIGUEZ, MD
SHAWN LIPINSKI, SCM, LCGC
“We save lives because, as we identify individuals at high risk, we can manage patients much more effectively.”
1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 170 Arlington, VA 22205
703-894-3800
www.virginiacancerspecialists.com
In the medical profession, knowledge is power. The earlier a patient and physician have access to critical information, the better the potential health outcomes.
Virginia Cancer Specialists’ Hereditary Cancer Risk Assessment Program collects vital information about patients’ cancer risk, long before they may actually develop the disease. Their genetic testing allows them to determine whether an individual might have a predisposition to certain cancers.
This is particularly useful in helping women assess their chances of facing breast or ovarian cancer. Armed with this knowledge, patients and their doctors— together with Virginia Cancer Specialists’ team of genetic counselors—can plot an appropriate course of action, be it more aggressive screening or preventative surgery. As more targeted drugs come into the market, doctors are able to use genetic information obtained for treatment purposes.
“While I have made a career of working
with patients who are fighting cancer, this is about prevention,” says Dr. Patricia Rodriguez. “That’s what makes it so special.”
Approximately 5% to 10% of cancers are inherited. Early genetic detection benefits not only the patient, but their family as well. “If we find something concerning in a patient, we will start screening their family members much sooner,” says Dr. Rodriguez. “We are able to make educated decisions about them, and any future health challenges they may face.”
Recent advances have made genetic screening an even more valuable tool. “We used to test for one or two genes, but now we test for gene panels consisting of 20 to 30 genes,” explains Dr. Rodriguez. “We are able to find many more indicators we may not have expected—it makes a huge difference.”
PAULO PICCOLO, MD
ALEX MEXBAHI, MD, FACS
MAURICE NAHABEDIAN, MD, FACS
MARK VENTURI, MD, FACS
Specialties:
Cosmetic Surgery: Facial Rejuvenation, Rhinoplasty, Breast and Body Contouring Breast Reconstructive Surgery: DIEP Flap Reconstruction, SGAP Reconstruction, Oncoplastic Reconstruction, Implant Based Reconstruction, Complex Revision Breast Surgery
Others: Botox, Fillers, Laser Treatments; Halo Laser; Advanced Laser Skin Care; PRP Skin Rejuvenation; PRP Hair Loss Therapy
7601 Lewinsville Road, Suite 400 McLean, VA 22102
703-287-8277
2440 M St., Suite 318
Washington, D.C. 20037
703-287-8277
www.nationalcenterforplasticsurgery.com
The plastic surgeons at National Center for Plastic Surgery are among the most highly respected and prominent medical professionals in the region. From their beautiful, state-of-the-art facilities in McLean and Washington's West End, they provide world-class care to Washingtonians discreetly and with expertise. Sought out by patients nationwide, the team of distinguished surgeons is renowned for their cosmetic and reconstructive surgical solutions.
National Center for Plastic Surgery’s medical team consists of four plastic surgeons, three physician assistants and two licensed aestheticians. Their surgeons are sought out by breast surgeons and other physicians for their outstanding breast cancer reconstructive skills and a variety of cosmetic procedures, including primary and revision rhinoplasty, facial rejuvenation and body contouring. “Seeing my patients smiling post-surgery is what brings me the most satisfaction in my
work,” says Dr. Maurice Nahabedian. “All of us are committed to our patients from start to finish, focusing on esthetic principles with a goal of making each patient feel and look better than before.”
The plastic surgeons work hard to stay current on the latest innovations in their field, such as deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) surgery, an advanced microvascular breast reconstruction technique that uses a patient’s own body tissues.
“I am deeply moved by each of our doctor’s dedication to the patients,” says Gretchen Edwards, a physician assistant at the National Center for Plastic Surgery. “It’s heartwarming to see the difference our doctors make in the lives of so many men and women.”
ERIC J. FEUCHTBAUM, MD
ASHLEY BIDWICK, MEDICAL ASSISTANT
JOSEPH R. O’BRIEN, MD
Practice Awards/Honors:
Bethesda Magazine, Best Orthopedic Practice
2020 Washingtonian magazine Top Doctors Award
The Joint Commission Accreditation for Total Shoulder Replacement
John Carroll Society Pro Bono Health Care Award
1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 180 Arlington, VA 22205
703-567-4706
www.orthobethesda.com
Dr. O’Brien is the director of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery at OrthoBethesda and Virginia Hospital Center. Dr. O’Brien served as an Associate Professor at GWU Medical Center for nine years, has published two textbooks, and continues to teach future, novice and veteran spine surgeons.
As one of the pioneers of minimally invasive spine surgery, Dr. O’Brien has developed and optimized surgical techniques that allow the minimally invasive approach to be used for multilevel correction surgeries. He has been published over fifty times in peerreviewed journals. Still, his top priority remains providing quality care to his patients.
Dr. Feuchtbaum specializes in minimally invasive spine surgery and complex deformity correction. After finishing his residency at Washington University in St. Louis, ranked top 5 nationally, Dr. Feuchtbaum went on to complete his fellowship in spine and
scoliosis reconstructive surgery at HSS in NYC, ranked number 1 nationally. Dr. Feuchtbaum remains active in research so that his patients have access to the most advanced — and fully vetted — technologies and techniques.
Dr. Feuchtbaum is known for his skill and expertise in the operating room, but he is also dedicated to providing his patients with one-on-one care. “I believe that a successful surgery requires careful preoperative surgical planning, expertise in the O.R., and attentive postoperative care.”
While Drs. Feuchtbaum and O’Brien operate primarily out of OrthoBethesda’s Arlington location now, all of the staff, doctors, and therapists at both the Arlington and Bethesda locations are dedicated to providing superior patient to bring restorative results to each patient.
“At Nirschl Orthopaedic Center, we provide the highest quality of care, compassion and understanding. Experience matters.”
1715 N. George Mason Drive Suite 504 Arlington, VA 22205
703 525-2200 www.nirschl.com
Since its founding in 1974, Nirschl Orthopaedic Center (NOC) has been consistently rated one of the top orthopaedic and sports medicine centers in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area. Their highly experienced boardcertified physicians are at the forefront of treating disorders of the hand, wrist, elbow, shoulder, hip, knee, foot and ankle. Many have graduated from leading fellowship training programs and are regularly named as the area’s top doctors. NOC Founder Dr. Robert P. Nirschl is an internationally recognized pioneer in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopaedic and sports injuries. The tradition of quality care and innovation originally instilled by Dr. Nirschl continues today with new treatments in hip preservation surgery, minimally invasive bunion correction and outpatient joint replacements.
At NOC and its Virginia Sports Medicine Institute physical therapy facilities (locations in Arlington and McLean), all patients are treated with uncompromising care, compassion and understanding. The physicians at the Nirschl Orthopaedic Center believe that physical rehabilitation is an integral part of a successful recovery plan. With this in mind, the physicians work closely with their physical therapy team to design an individualized program so that full recovery is achieved as quickly as possible.
Whether you’re a professional athlete or a “weekend warrior,” Drs. Matthew Buchanan, Robert Nirschl, Derek Ochiai, Ronald Paik, Cassie Root, Suzanne Walters and Clay Wellborn welcome the opportunity to participate in your care.
WASHINGTONIAN PLASTIC SURGERY
Awards/Honors:
Washingtonian Top Doctor, 2009-2020; US News & World Report Top 1% of Doctors in the USA; Educated at Brown, Harvard and Johns Hopkins; Dual Board Certified
7601 Lewinsville Road, Suite 300 McLean, VA 22102 703-345-4377 www.WashingtonianPlasticSurgery.com
Dr. Navin Singh is one of the area’s leading awardwinning dual board-certified plastic surgeons. Serving patients throughout the metro area at Washingtonian Plastic Surgery’s McLean, Reston and Chevy Chase offices, he is renowned for providing quality care and a variety of cutting-edge and minimally invasive procedures, as well as customized treatment plans for each patient, to ensure beautiful results that exceed patient expectations. “Technology is everchanging and important, but it can’t be the be-all and end-all,” says Dr. Singh. “We don’t fall for the latest fad or gimmick.”
An expert in his field, Dr. Singh formerly served as a director for cosmetic surgery at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and is also a board examiner for both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
Dr. Singh’s specialties include liquid lifts, mommy makeovers, laser liposuction, 360 lipo, body lifts and contouring, face and neck lifts, gynecomastia, breast augmentations, and breast reductions.
Over the course of his career, Dr. Singh has witnessed an increasingly relentless drive toward fewer and fewer invasive results as well as patients seeking tweaks earlier in life in order to prevent substantial overhauls later on. What has remained unchanged is the way he works with each patient to help them identify realistic and optimal results.
“My patients are my walking billboards,” says Dr. Singh. “And while I'm proud of the many awards that local magazines such as Arlington, Bethesda and Washingtonian have bestowed upon me, I'm most proud of each and every thank you that I get from a satisfied patient.”
SARAH CRUMBLY, RN
DR. ABBAA SARHAN
DR. LAURENCE UDOFF
DR. HARVEY STERN
MARY SANDS, MS, CGC
3015 Williams Drive Fairfax, VA 22031
703-698-7355
www.givffertility.com
For over 35 years, the Genetics & IVF Institute has been a pioneer in reproductive technology and genetics. Their trailblazing medical breakthroughs shaped modern fertility treatments and continue to pave the way for future innovations. The practice, led by Dr. Abbaa Sarhan, Dr. Laurence Udoff and Dr. Harvey Stern, offers patients the best in comprehensive and personalized reproductive care.
GIVF is the only local fertility practice that houses a preimplantation genetic testing lab, as well as donor sperm and donor egg banks, on-site. GIVF physicians are board certified in reproductive endocrinology or medical genetics and backed by a highly experienced and dedicated group of nurses, patient care coordinators and support staff. By focusing on quality and the needs of the patient, GIVF provides the compassionate care and excellent treatment each patient deserves.
200 Park Ave. Falls Church, VA 22046
571-634-3636 www.endocrinologygroup.com
The Endocrinology Group is a progressive medical practice that embraces innovative diabetes technology and therapeutics. A proud member of Privia Medical Group — a physician-led, multispecialty, national medical group — the practice was founded by Drs. Giang Bach and Caroline Huang and has long-established roots in the Arlington community.
“As endocrinologists, we are subspecialists in internal medicine, with specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of hormone-related disease and conditions, such as diabetes, and thyroid disorders, including thyroid cancer, osteoporosis, pituitary disease and obesity,” explains Dr. Bach.
“We find joy in developing long-term relationships with our patients, finding ways to motivate and inspire them to become healthier versions of themselves,” says Dr. Huang. “By finding ways to help patients believe in themselves, we help them play an active role in their own self-care.”
THIEN-GIANG BACH-HUYNH, MD, FACE; CAROLINE HUANG, MD, FACE; CHRISTINA GO, MD, FACE; KEVIN DONOHUE, DO
Not Pictured: PEDRAM JAVANMARD, MD; WENDY MCLAUGHLIN, PA-C, CDE
YONGSOOK VICTORIA SUH, MD
Awards/Honors:
Arlington Magazine, Top Doctors
Washingtonian magazine, Top Doctors
DC Magazine, Top Medical Professionals
Northern Virginia Magazine, Top Plastic Surgeons
8503 Arlington Blvd., Suite 130
Fairfax, VA 22031
703-293-5010
www.victoriacosmeticsurgery.com
Dr. Yongsook Victoria Suh is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. With her advanced training and dedication to perfection, Dr. Suh specializes in all aspects of facial rejuvenation and body contouring utilizing the newest advanced cosmetic surgical techniques and has served as the past President of National Capital Society of Plastic Surgeons.
A native Virginian and a graduate of Langley High School in McLean, Dr. Suh received her Bachelor of Arts degree at Amherst College and her MD from New York Medical College. She is on the Medical Staff at INOVA Fairfax Hospital, INOVA Fair Oaks Hospital, Inova Woodburn Surgery Center, and Novant Health Medical Center, serving the Northern Virginia community.
Dr. Suh has a great enthusiasm for education. During her Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery training, Dr. Suh conducted research on Cleft Lip Repair,
a congenital birth defect, and Breast Reconstruction. She presented both of these works at the International Plastic Surgery Symposium in Cote d’Ivoire, West Africa. Dr. Suh has conducted research and has published on Tracheoesophageal Injuries and has written a book chapter in Traumatic Hand Injuries.
Dr. Suh believes that patient education and mentoring are crucial to patient care and to the future of medicine. “I am passionate about patient safety and providing excellent medical care at Victoria Plastic Surgery Center’s state-ofthe-art facility,” she says. “I believe that my life as Plastic Surgeon is a blessing and want to ensure that my patients receive the best personalized care possible.”
Dr. Carla M. Shuman is a licensed clinical psychologist and the owner and director of Mindful Solutions, LLC. The practice treats children, adolescents and adults for issues related to anxiety, trauma, ADHD, depression and adjustment to chronic medical illness. Comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations are also conducted to diagnose ADHD, learning disabilities, and other cognitive and emotional challenges.
2000 N. 14th St., Suite 780 Arlington, VA 22201
703-527-1200 www.drcarla.messenger.com
Dr. Carla M. Shuman has lived in the Washington D.C. metro area for 22 years. “Initially, I moved here to earn a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the George Washington University,” she says. “I am a West Virginia native, and while I will always hold a special place in my heart for the Mountain State, my home is now in Arlington.”
The strength and resilience that Dr. Shuman gained through her own challenges makes psychology the perfect career choice for her. “I love supporting people as they overcome their struggles, and become free to enjoy life and find greater meaning and purpose,” she says. Her ability to establish trust and connection with clients is a key element of her success.
Owning her private practice allows Dr. Shuman to provide high-quality mental health care and give greater attention to each of her clients. “I want them to feel like they are receiving personalized care that is tailored to meet their needs,”
she says. “I strongly believe in applying evidence-based practices to treat anxiety, depression, trauma and other mental health conditions. But even the best practices do not fit everyone, so we need to have a variety of tools and strategies from which we can draw.”
Outside of her clinical work, Dr. Shuman enjoys her role as a Clinical Preceptor at the George Washington University School of Medicine. She mentors medical students as part of the team and helps provide instruction on how to become physicians who provide compassionate care to diverse populations.
Led by President Irma Becerra and her high-performing team, Marymount University is gaining momentum while on the path to national recognition for innovation and commitment to student success, alumni achievement and faculty and staff excellence. Its student-centered, one-of-a-kind educational experience is based on a strong liberal arts foundation with a career-focus. Here, Saints “Learn with Purpose” through small class sizes (12:1 student-faculty ratio and average class size of 15), extensive research and leadership development opportunities, internship and job connections and numerous study abroad programs. Marymount embraces a global perspective, with students hailing from 45 U.S. states and 78 different countries. And finally,
the University’s emphasis on service learning and its inclusive campus community help foster the intellectual, ethical and spiritual development of every student.
703-522-5600
marymount.edu
Back row, L-R: Jonathan Aberman (Dean, College of Business, Innovation, Leadership and Technology); Dr. Marnel Niles Goins (Interim Dean, College of Sciences and Humanities); Dr. Kenneth Harwood (Dean, College of Health and Education); Alison Gregory (University Librarian)
Front row, L-R: Dr. Irma Becerra (President); Dr. Hesham El-Rewini (Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs)
Pandemic life gave rise to all kinds of unhealthy coping mechanisms. Which bad habits do we need to unlearn?OVERMAN | PHOTOS BY MATT MENDELSOHN
Working out was always a part of Allison Foster’s routine, whether she was biking to her job as CFO for a nonprofit or hitting the gym to blow off steam.
The pandemic threw everything off kilter. Though social distancing meant that Foster, 54, could work from home—she and her husband, Mark, a portfolio manager, live in Aurora Highlands with their two daughters, 14 and 11—the gym was closed, and other demands quickly ate up the time she had once reserved for a good sweat.
Worried for her kids’ well-being during lockdown, Foster scrambled to find new extracurricular options to keep them engaged (her younger daughter ended up doing a virtual learning program with Synetic Theater in Crystal City). At the same time, she was coordinating support for her elderly parents, who live in Louisa County, Virginia, near Lake Anna. Her dad has Parkinson’s disease and dementia, which got “much, much worse” without social interaction, she says, and her mom’s heart problems “kind of snowballed” amid feelings of isolation and depression.
Distance made it harder for Foster to help her folks, who are an hour’s drive from the nearest hospital. “To call an ambulance is a big deal,” she says. Sometimes “they call me from an hour-and-ahalf away and say, ‘Can you come down here and help?’ They have two neighbors who have been a godsend, taking them to the doctor and to get groceries.”
Still, she worries.
The constant stress, “compounded by the fact that I have not been going to the gym or biking…means I am terribly out of shape now,” Foster says. “I usually love to exercise, but I just could not be motivated. I have fallen into the habit of working far too many hours, which means a lot of time sitting in my office chair and nothing to break up my day.”
Also, she has gone from being a
sound sleeper “to spending a lot of nights on the couch reading, trying to fall back asleep.”
AS PANDEMIC PROTOCOLS shifted our way of life this past year, many of us found ourselves stretched thinner than ever before, juggling roles as parents, caregivers, employees, teachers, cooks, maids, coaches, sounding boards, tech support providers and peacekeepers. (“The open space concept looks great on television,” Foster says of the current trend in home design, “but doors are sometimes a good thing.”)
In the process, our own health and well-being often took a back seat. Falling into survival mode, many of us developed ways of coping that were less than positive.
A “Stress in America” poll released by the American Psychological Association in March found a majority of essential workers (54%) reporting that they had relied on unhealthy habits to get through the pandemic. Two in 5 said they had gained more weight than intended over the last year—an average of 29 pounds. Nearly 1 in 4 adults reported drinking more to cope with stress, and 2 in 3 reported sleep disruptions stemming from anxiety and shifts in routine.
Aaron Dodini, director of Dodini Behavioral Health in Rosslyn, has seen the toll firsthand in the patients who visit his practice.
“People are working more hours. They’re eating more junk. They’re exercising less,” he says. “These are key fac-
tors for self-care, and as self-care gets eroded, it affects mental health.”
Individuals who are stressed also tend to fall back on old bad habits, he says. “If someone had an eating disorder earlier, those eating patterns start to kick back in. There’s a regressiveness.”
Those who managed well through the pandemic were “the ones who connected” with others, Dodini says. “That seems to really be an antidote to the challenge of isolation.”
offered a break from commuting, workplace experts note that a lot of employees simply filled the time and began working more —not less. In a nationwide survey conducted last summer by the staffing firm Robert Half, 45% of professionals said they routinely work more than 8 hours a day. Nearly 70% said they work on weekends.
Remote work does provide greater flexibility, but “it also makes disconnecting extremely difficult,” observes Paul McDonald, the firm’s senior executive director. “Many people feel pressure to keep up with rising workloads and are putting in long hours.”
The ever-presence of work has clear downsides. Nearly 4 in 5 respondents in a TELUS International survey of 1,000 Americans last fall said they found it hard to “shut off” from their jobs in the evenings. More than half said they had not taken a mental health day since they started working from home during Covid; 44% said they had not taken a
“People are working 25% more, seven days a week. There’s a lot of relapse of alcohol abuse, a lot of sleeping problems.”
single day of vacation since they started working from home.
Colleen Avis, a wellness coach in Arlington, has watched this trend playing out locally. “I’m hearing people are working 25% more, seven days a week,” she says. “There’s a lot of relapse of alcohol abuse, a lot of sleeping problems.”
Avis teaches yoga and meditation (she is a certified instructor and meditation teacher for the Chopra Center, a meditation center based in Carlsbad, California), with a focus on what she calls the six pillars of wellness: sleep, mindfulness, emotional well-being, nourishment, movement and nature. “You need to put together a tool kit,” she says, “to rebalance.”
DOUGLAS PARK RESIDENT Jonathan King used to enjoy doing the occa-
sional sprint triathlon and even participated in an Olympic distance triathlon. But lately he’s had no time.
A repair shop foreman in Fairfax County, he’s been juggling the demands of his full-time job while going to school (he’s working toward his undergraduate degree at George Mason University), caring for his toddler son, and getting his father, 65, who has early-onset Alzheimer’s, to clinical trials for treatments that may help stem the disease.
At 32, King is younger than most members of the “sandwich generation”— a group often defined as middle-age adults who are simultaneously caring for older parents and kids—but he’s feeling the crunch.
“[My father] can go on a family walk with the dog…but can’t pursue activities on his own,” says King, who lives with
his wife, their young son and his dad in a house King’s grandparents bought decades ago. “He’s always been self-sufficient. He was a contractor for his whole life. He doubled the size of our house. Now he can’t read a tape measure.”
Life in the time of Covid brought more stress to King’s already harried situation. The nature of his job meant that he couldn’t work from home. “The fear was I would bring the virus home to my [family],” he says. “I had access to the proper PPE, but it still crosses your mind that you could get sick.”
At the same time, there were some surprising upsides. While the shift to distance learning was tough for most students, it was a saving grace for King. Being able to attend his business management class online reduced the time he spent commuting, freeing up more
hours for family. “Covid’s been bad for a lot of people but for me, [virtual school] really did help me out,” King says, though exercise is still hard to fit in. “Since having a kid and also caring for my dad, it is extremely difficult to find time for basically any physical activity.”
AFTER A YEAR of laptop-surfing and chronic malaise, many of us have much to unlearn physically, and injuries to undo, says Andy Shin, a personal trainer who’s been offering both in-person and virtual consultations. Quarantining revealed that a lot of us don’t have the right equipment to exercise—or work— from home. That’s caused a range of physical problems, from back and neck injuries to carpal tunnel syndrome.
If you’ve appreciated the convenience of exercising in your own basement or living room, Shin advises taking a closer look at your workout setup, as well as your technique, before you continue down that path.
“People often don’t have adequate space at home to train,” says the Arlington fitness coach, explaining that simple exercises like lunges and jumping jacks can become less than beneficial when performed in cramped areas without room to move and fully extend. The focus of home workouts should be “mostly on your core and getting your heart rate up in a safe manner,” he advises, using simple items like resistance bands, a kettlebell or a dumbbell.
Americans tend to be sedentary, and
have become even more so over the past year, in part because they aren’t taking lunch breaks or getting up to stand around the proverbial watercooler. Shin says he’s seeing “tighter necks, back injuries, tight muscles. It’s harder for people to get out of bed.”
As the vaccine rollout continues, the slow return to “normalcy” will at least force us off the couch. A March study by the Society for Human Resource Management found more than half of the companies it surveyed plan to bring employees back into the office by July.
At least part of the time. The great Covid experiment has made many employers more amenable to hybrid work arrangements, enticed by the cost-cutting benefits of smaller com-
As life gets back on track, now is a good time to reassess. Which unhealthy habits that we developed during the pandemic need to be undone? Are there certain changes for the better that are worth keeping? Tap into these resources as you and your family members embark on your journey back to health and happiness.
If you moved into a makeshift home office during the pandemic that you plan to continue using, take some time to ensure that your setup is supporting and not ruining your posture. Sitting for prolonged periods of time without breaks—particularly at a workstation without proper alignment—can cause a host of problems, according to chiropractor Michael Moses of Arlington Pain & Rehab in Clarendon (arlingtonpainandrehab. com/services/ergonomics), from tendonitis and tennis elbow to neck and back injuries. Don’t know if your work surface is the right height or if your chair is adjusted properly? Find guidelines offered by the Mayo Clinic (mayoclinic. org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/ in-depth/office-ergonomics/art20046169) and the American Occupational Therapy Association (aota.org/~/media/Corporate/ Files/Practice/Manage/HomeOffice-Ergonomics-Tips.pdf).
Pandemic stress caused plenty of sleep disruption. If you need to get back on track, the Sleep Foundation (sleepfoundation.org/sleepguidelines-covid-19-isolation) recommends having a fixed time to start and end each day and having a relaxing “wind-down time” before heading off to bed. Foundation experts emphasize the importance of creating an association in your mind between your bed and sleep. This means if you’ve been working from bed while working from home, it’s time to break that habit. And try to avoid too much screen time right before bed. The blue light produced by electronic devices such as mobile phones, tablets and computers has been found to interfere with your body’s natural sleepinducing processes.
If you’ve gotten into the habit of taking naps, that may be bad for your job, but it’s not necessarily bad for your health. Rather than approaching naps haphazardly, consider a consistent schedule. Studies suggest that keeping naps to 20 minutes or less provides restorative sleep without disrupting your circadian rhythm.
Finally, spend some time outside each day, in natural light. Whenever possible, open windows and blinds to let daylight into your home. Doing so will improve your sleep and your mood.
If you’re trying to lose the “Covid 19” pounds so many say they’ve gained, consider consulting with a registered dietician, or at least take some advice from the USDA’s MyPlate website (myplate.gov), which lays out the foods that should be on your plate if you want to eat right. It even has an app to help you maintain a healthy diet. If you’ve fallen into a pattern of disordered eating, the Arlington nonprofit Rock Recovery (rockrecoveryed.org) offers help and resources.
Want to get back in shape? Arlington Parks & Recreation offers a variety of drop-in fitness classes and activities (parks.arlingtonva.us/drop-in-fitnessclasses), as do Virginia Hospital Center (virginiahospitalcenter.com/classesevents/fitness-healthy-lifestyle-classes), the McLean Community Center (mcleancenter. org/classes-n-trips) and the City of Falls Church (fallschurchva.gov/recreation). Take advantage of outdoor yoga, Zumba, boot camps and other workouts, many of which are free, organized by the business improvement districts (BIDs) in National Landing (nationallanding.org/events/ calendar/fitness), Rosslyn (rosslynva.org/ events/wellness) and Ballston (ballstonva. org/simpli-live). Similar programming is available on Columbia Pike (columbiapike.org/programs-and-events) and in and the Mosaic District (mosaicdistrict. com/fun). Discover new bike routes with maps from BikeArlington (bikearlington. com) and sign up for local 5Ks and other races through Pacers Running (pacersrunningevents.com).
Arlington wellness coach Colleen Avis (subtle-shifts.com) believes that mindfulness is a powerful tool for mitigating stress and balancing work and family responsibilities. Mindfulness is defined as a mental state achieved by focusing your awareness on the present moment, calmly acknowledging and accepting your feelings, thoughts and bodily sensations.
“People have 60,000 to 80,000 thoughts a day. A large percent of those are repeated thoughts,” Avis says. She recommends taking time to stop and smell the roses—or maybe your morning coffee. “Be aware of your senses and the smells and sounds around you. Practice noticing. As you make your coffee, take time to enjoy the aroma, to pick the right cup. Take the first four or five sips and enjoy them in silence with awareness before you sit down.”
Find other mindfulness and meditation resources from the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (nccih.nih.gov/health/meditation-indepth). The Teal Center for Therapeutic Bodywork in Ballston (tealcenter. com) offers massage, acupuncture, wellness classes, life coaching and other holistic services. Sun & Moon Yoga in Arlington (sunandmoonstudio. com) offers meditation sessions on YouTube and Zoom, and a variety of yoga sessions (both group and individual) focused on healing.
mercial leases—and the fact that so many employees are starting to insist on it. More than two-thirds (68%) of U.S. workers would prefer a hybrid workplace model after the pandemic ends, according to a “Pulse of the American Worker” survey conducted for Prudential in March. Of those surveyed who have been working remotely, 87% said they wanted to continue to work from home at least one day per week.
bright spots in the era of social distancing. One big one was that it pushed more people outside. “I’ve never seen so many people walking,” says Avis, the wellness coach. “Nature is providing a really beautiful tool.” Sunlight and fresh air can do wonders for body and mind.
While some coped by turning into workaholics, for others, this surreal time prompted a reboot of their whole notion of work, and some big-picture reassessments.
Avis says she’s seen “a lot of ambitous, driven Type A people” who previously focused on intense workouts adopting additional forms of self-care, such as yoga, meditation and mindfulness exercises. “Maybe taking on a physical or mental challenge, like mastering a handstand, setting up habits to promote better sleep, rekindling an old hobby or starting a new one—all tools to create well-being,” she says. They’re also looking for new ways to connect with others, “maybe something larger than themselves.”
Margo Ten Broeck Calkin, assistant manager of corporate health at Virginia Hospital Center, has been making more of an effort to practice what she preaches. When Covid began, her job helping companies provide wellness programs to their employees shifted dramatically. Not only did the pro -
grams move online, they began to focus more on balancing work and homelife.
“Before, if we held a webinar on loneliness, people would have been embarrassed to show up,” says Calkin, 52. “Now people feel OK with admitting this. It has taken away the taboo.”
On a personal level, she says, “It’s been good for me, mentally, to have to study and research self-compassion.”
During the year of social distancing, Calkin embraced having more time with her 16-year-old son, a student at Arlington Tech, as they worked and studied out of their home in Falls Church. (Her son’s father lives in Arlington.) “Usually, my son would have had a lot of other activities,” she says. “We’re exercising, cooking together. We’ve had little adventures. We’ve walked all of Arlington. It’s been a wonderful time in a very difficult situation.”
Calkin also took it upon herself to keep an eye on her neighbors. “I live in a community that has a lot of elderly people around me. I’ve been very conscious about checking in on them,” she says. That’s meant shopping, driving them to doctors’ appointments and sharing information about vaccination availability. She also spearheaded the planting of a garden in her community, Winter Hill, that is now flourishing and feeds low-income seniors. “We got everybody outside. We got to connect,”she says, beaming.
“The important thing we’ve learned from this is to slow down,” Calkin says. “We’ve missed friends, but we didn’t miss all the scheduling. This is a little more how life used to be. For the first time, I’m not embarrassed when someone asks, ‘What are you doing this weekend?’ and I say, ‘I don’t really know.’ ” ■
Stephenie Overman is a writer specializing in health and workplace issues. She lives and works at home in Reston.
Their pandemic senior year was anything but ordinary— which makes these new graduates and their myriad achievements all the more extraordinary.
Khulan Erdenedalai was only 7 when she left Mongolia’s capital, Ulaanbaatar, and moved to Arlington, but she says she’ll never forgot the pollution that ravaged her home city.
“I’ve been pretty passionate about combating air pollution. I’ve always made artworks and films highlighting these environmental and social issues,” says the 18-year-old, whose paintings were featured in a recent exhibit, “Dreams and Nightmares,” at the Arlington Arts Center.
She intends to study environmental engineering with a possible double major in ethnicity, race and migration when she lands at Yale this fall.
“I’m hoping to help protect underrepresented communities from adverse environmental effects, by designing pollution control technology, and also addressing ozone depletion and other climate change issues,” she says.
Erdenedalai already has considerable real-world experience under her belt. In 2019, she served as a natural resources and environmental technology research assistant at Virginia Tech. This spring, she completed a fellowship with PBS NewsHour, where she produced a film about Mongolia’s air pollution and making yurts more sustainable. That post came amid her involvement with Climate Cardinals,
“a youth-led nonprofit that aims to make climate information accessible in over 100 languages,” she says. “I started out [last summer] by translating climate information. In 2020, I became the social media director. Now I lead a team of 40 people and help flourish partnerships with other international organizations, and I work closely with a United Nations Youth Advisory Board member.”
In addition to the numerous Scholastic Art Awards and American Visionary awards she received from The Alliance for Young Artists and Writers, Erdenedalai was named a Gates Scholar this year by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The full scholarship was given to only 300 students from this year’s pool of nearly 35,000 applicants. –Rina Rapuano
Many thanks to our 2021 Selection Committee members for their help and guidance with this year’s Extraordinary Teen Awards:
Lisa Fikes, acting president & CEO, Leadership Center for Excellence | Volunteer Arlington
Whytni Kernodle, founder & principal, Global Goddess Enterprises; co-founder & president, Black Parents of Arlington
Troy Cogburn, AVP for enrollment, Marymount University
Lizzette Arias, former executive director, The Dream Project
Greg Hamilton, publisher & co-founder, Arlington Magazine
Guillermo Garcia knows that playing on the varsity soccer, basketball and golf teams—plus many years of travel soccer—means some might view him as just a jock. But, like most people, the future Virginia Tech student is much more than what he appears on the surface, partly due to what he’s learned on those teams.
“I think the experiences I’ve gained from being in leadership positions on the teams that I play on has really helped me,” says the 18-year-old.
Without his connection to soccer, he might never have noticed that the students at his aunt’s school in Colombia, where he visits his father’s side of the family annually, lacked the sports equipment that he had back home in Arlington.
“I found that they didn’t have the resources available to really be able to play competitive soccer like I’m able to [do] here in the States,” he says.
In 2018, Garcia launched an equipment drive with Wakefield High School’s PTA and the Arlington Soccer Association, with the goal of donating 250 pounds of equipment. To date, he has collected 1,500 pounds.
Before Covid put travel on hold, he was thrilled to see kids in Colombia wearing Wakefield and ASA gear when he visited. “I think my experience in Colombia is probably what I’m most proud of to this day,” he says.
Athletics aside, Garcia finished high school with a 3.9 GPA and was a member of the Spanish Honor Society. He referees soccer games on weekends and participated in his school’s Cohort Program, which supports male minority students preparing for higher education.
He intends to study business and Spanish in college, then follow in his father’s footsteps as a financial adviser.
“He deals with a lot of clients and their money,” he says, “but it’s all about building relationships, and that’s something that I tend to be very good at.”
–Rina Rapuano
Do not underestimate Talia Penn. She may be small (standing 4 feet 11 inches) but she is more than comfortable taking charge, whether it’s teaching a hesitant first-grader to read or serving as a flight commander for JROTC, which she did as a high school freshman. If someone tells her she can’t do something, she’ll prove them wrong, like the time a restaurant co-worker sniffed that she wasn’t strong enough to carry a bucket of ice from the kitchen to the front—and she ended up carrying not one, but two. (She still works there.)
“I don’t take ‘no’ for an answer,” says the 17-year-old. “Especially as a woman of color, society has tried to dictate who we should be, what we should wear, where we should go. I try not to let society dictate who I will or will not be. The world is mine to explore.”
Penn has explored a lot already. In high school, she served as a JROTC squadron commander, leading 40 to 60 cadets in community cleanups and other service projects. She competed with her unit’s drill team, was a cheerleader for her home high school, Wakefield, and was a top student at Arlington Tech, a rigorous, project-based learning program housed within the Arlington Career Center. She took dual-enrollment courses at Northern Virginia Community College and, for her capstone project, helped a local health care entrepreneur open a fertility clinic, handling the marketing and PR surrounding the launch.
She now plans to attend Duke University and later, medical school, to become a pediatric psychiatrist.
Penn comes from a large family. She became interested in working with kids during her junior year, while serving as a Montessori teaching assistant as part of an early-childhood education class. The first-grader she was assigned to tutor had a learning disability and was convinced he couldn’t read. “Yes, you can,” she insisted, helping him sound out the words. One day he greeted her with excitement, saying he had learned to read the words his teacher had assigned him.
“I don’t think he’d had all the encouragement he needed,” Penn says. “I just want to be able to give that to other people.” –Lisa Lednicer
When Abel Geleta identifies a problem, his first instinct is to figure out how he can fix it. The Arlington teen has amassed quite a track record of volunteer work—a passion that started when he helped with the Arlington County Fair in middle school.
“I got to make some great memories and enjoy being a part of the fair,” he says. “From then on, I’ve continued to do various volunteer activities to expand my experiences.”
Prior to his graduation from W-L, Geleta spent four years as a representative on the Student Advisory Board. He also served as a board member of Arlington Transforming Masculinity, which works to promote emotional intelligence over aggression, and volunteered with EcoAction Arlington, helping low-income county residents with home improvements to reduce their energy costs and carbon footprints. He pitched in at Meals on Wheels and aided elderly patients at Cherrydale Health & Rehabilitation Center, where his mother works.
Inspired by a Minority Student Achievement Network (MSAN) conference he attended as a junior, Geleta also launched a social media initiative that connects minority students in Arlington with resources for academic opportunities, scholarships, internships and more.
“Being an ambitious student, I’ve been able to exploit and harness a lot of those [resources] to help me grow,” he says, “so I’ve been using social media to help other students [do the same].”
After finishing high school with a 4.46 GPA, Geleta, 18, is headed to Yale this fall, where he’ll study political science and economics—a path he says would not have been possible without his mother’s courage. She left him with his father in Ethiopia when he was 3, and was finally able to bring both of them to America when he was 8.
“Without her making that initial sacrifice to come here,” he says, “I wouldn’t have been able to experience any of these things or achieve any of the accomplishments that I’ve achieved today. She’s definitely a great source of inspiration for me.” –Rina Rapuano
Like many Connecticut natives, Katherine Donovan’s father played ice hockey growing up. Once he had kids of his own, he signed his son up for hockey and his daughter up for figure skating. But Katherine preferred hockey.
“I had to sit at so many of my younger brother’s hockey games that I was like, well, I might as well start trying it,” says Donovan, 18. She liked the fast pace of the sport, and the fearlessness afforded by protective padding— especially in her position as goalie.
With few options for girls to play ice hockey in this area, Donovan drives from Falls Church to Rockville, Maryland, three to four times a week to practice with her team, the Washington Pride. It’s the only local Tier 1 girls team.
“As a goalie, there’s a lot of pressure on me,” she says. “I’m the last line of defense, and I spend a lot of time in the net by myself. I’ve had to learn how to manage my own anxieties and control my inner monologue. The hardest part of the game is moving on from letting in goals and staying locked in for a full 60 minutes. I have the power to change games— a timely save can motivate the team and help spur us to victory. I love knowing that I have such a huge role, that I have the power to make a difference.”
Armed with a 4.22 GPA and several college acceptances, she hasn’t yet decided where she’ll go, although she knows she wants to continue playing hockey while studying economics and Russian. For now, she’s planning to do a postgraduate year at Choate Rosemary Hall, a prep school in Connecticut.
“Whatever I end up doing, I want to travel and go to different places,” she says.
Off the ice, Donovan played guitar in the jazz band at George Mason High School and participated in the Model UN. She also helps her father coach little ones who are learning to play hockey.
“I love that they have so much fun while they’re doing it,” she says. “It’s nice to be reminded how I felt when I first started playing, because sometimes it can get a little competitive and a little crazy.”
And yet, she says, there’s an upside to that game stress. “When I play, I feel powerful. I feel unstoppable.” –Rina Rapuano
By the time Eliana Durkee moved to Falls Church the summer before eighth grade, she had never lived anywhere for more than three years. With her father in the Navy, she had bounced from Maryland to Sicily—among other places— during her childhood. Such a nomadic life might hinder some students’ ability to form relationships, but in Durkee, it instilled a passion for volunteering, leadership and bringing people together.
“I grew up moving a lot, but the community that I did have was the Navy, and that’s all about service and looking out for each other and having each other’s backs,” says the 18-year-old. “So during my time in high school...I’ve tried to apply the same kind of idea in taking care of everyone.”
For Durkee, that meant volunteering regularly at a local food pantry with her mother and little sister, getting involved with student government, planning events for her fellow seniors, mentoring freshmen, running the student art gallery (she has a personal interest in photography) and coaching her local youth field hockey program—all while playing varsity field hockey and maintaining a 4.42 GPA, with several AP classes.
“Eliana sparkles” with enthusiasm and service to others, says her faculty adviser at McLean High School. Her mom describes her as a “walking pep rally” who raises others up.
“I’ve been told I’m a fairly chatty person,” says the teen of her many leadership roles. “I’m pretty good at breaking the ice between people, especially if they’re not used to working with each other.”
Durkee has at least one more move coming up: She heads to Duke University’s Pratt School of Engineering this fall. After that she hopes to settle down someplace, perhaps working for the Navy as a civilian.
“They have a lot of engineers who stay in one place,” she says, “and still help out.” –Rina Rapuano
MICHAEL VENTURASelf-expression is a through line in Danielle Oliver’s life, and at 17, she is prolific. A member of the Alexandria Women of Color Writers Group, she recently participated in NaNoWriMo (short for National Novel Writing Month), during which she set—and surpassed—a goal of penning 20,000 words of her first fantasy novella in 30 days, all while rising to the top of her class at Wakefield High School.
Oliver has often found her voice through the written word. In a 2019 piece for a School of The New York Times writing workshop, she reflected on assumptions people make upon learning that her mom, a pastor, has a physical disability. Oliver helps out with her younger sister; some have asked if she is also “taking care” of her mother. “What does it say about inclusion in America,” she wrote, “if children are assumed to be the caregiver, or if people automatically assume that my father, who is not disabled, has to be both parents?”
She’s also an accomplished musician. During her time at Wakefield, Oliver played cello in its top orchestra, piano in its jazz band and performed a chorus role in a stage production of Chicago. She sang for a few years with the Children’s Chorus of Washington, where another formative experience prompted her to find her voice. While rehearsing a song about Harriet Tubman, she observed a lack of respect for the abolitionist among some of her fellow chorus members. In response, she prepared a presentation about Tubman’s legacy to share with the group. “I didn’t feel like I could turn down the opportunity to bring awareness and smooth tensions,” she says. “I stepped up to the plate.”
Now finishing up her novella, she’s been writing alongside her mom, who is penning a biography of Oliver’s great-grandfather Joseph A. Johnson Jr., a Christian Methodist Episcopal bishop and the first Black person to graduate from Vanderbilt University. “It’s been so lovely to bond with [my mom] over what it’s like to be a writer,” she says.
Looking ahead to Oberlin College and beyond, she is set on a life in music and literature. “I know things that I love doing and that I wouldn’t want to give up,” she says, “but I’m also going to be very open-minded to other things that might ebb and flow into my life.”
–Eliza Tebo Berkon
When Kay Rollins was around 8 years old, she wanted a dog. Her older brother wanted fish. Their father, who was on debate teams in high school and college, had them hash it out, debate-style, to choose the family pet. Little did her brother know he was debating the future top-ranking extemporaneous speaker in the country, and the first student in Tournament of Champions history to claim that title twice. (She would later break her own record when she won it for the third time this year.)
“We got two dogs,” Rollins says, looking back on the pet dispute, “so I felt good about that. I ended up joining the debate team when I was in eighth grade, and it exceeded every expectation I could have had.”
While debate practice and tournaments took up a good chunk of her extracurricular time in high school, the McLean teen also put a lot of energy toward suicide prevention work—a cause that comes from a very personal place after she lost a friend to suicide during her sophomore year. “I ended up first just starting off at my school,” she says. “I did a fundraiser for the national suicide hotline, because those are so underfunded.”
The effort raised just under $1,000. Rollins also became involved with a local chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, helping with its annual Out of the Darkness community walk, and crafted an original oratory for debate about mental health last year. “The focus of it was to encourage people to talk and get help,” says the 18-year-old, noting that people who talk about their struggles are less likely to end their lives.
In addition, Rollins wrote for her school paper, builds electric bikes and judges middle school debates. She racked up enough academic accolades to gain acceptance to Harvard, where she plans to study foreign relations or public policymaking.
She counts her parents, her brother and her debate coaches among her biggest inspirations and hopes her mentorship of young debaters has a similar motivating effect on others.
“I think everyone has the potential to be someone else’s inspiration,” she says, “even if it’s only for a really little thing.” –Rina Rapuano
High school students are used to juggling a lot, but Bilguun “Bill” Soronzonbold has had a heavier load than most. When the pandemic arrived in 2020 and school moved online, he became the primary caregiver for his two younger brothers. His Mongolian immigrant parents both work at a grocery store in D.C. and could not do their jobs remotely.
Once his mom and dad left for work at 5 a.m., Soronzonbold was in charge of getting his siblings, ages 8 and 11, up for breakfast and logged in to school, troubleshooting any tech problems, making sure they were engaged and fixing them lunch—all while taking his own full load of online IB classes. He was also a member of the Key Club, captain of W-L’s track team and, with a friend, created and taught a computer science course to middle-schoolers.
“I was raised with a no-excuse mentality,” says the Arlington teen. “If I have a lot of deadlines, I’ll tell my coaches I can’t come to track practice, but I’ll do everything I can to get there anyway. That’s the expectation I set for myself.”
His family lives in a two-bedroom apartment at The Jordan, an affordable housing complex near Ballston Quarter that is operated by AHC Inc., which offers educational programs and social services. Soronzonbold, 18, is a College and Career Readiness (CCR) ambassador for the organization, talking to younger kids about the importance of education and coming up with ideas to promote CCR.
“Bill is a selfless leader in his family and very humble,” says Milenka Coronel, assistant director of education at AHC. “He never brags about his successes, but he’s grateful for everything that he has.”
Growing up in Arlington (his family immigrated to the U.S. when he was 6), Soronzonbold marveled at the county’s diversity— “I have white friends, Latino friends, Black friends,” he says—and searched for a college with a similar feel. This fall he’ll study computer science at Tufts University, with hopes of pursuing a career in that field.
“I like the freedom you get when you start a program,” he says. “It’s like a blank slate. It allows me to be creative in a setting where you don’t expect creativity.” –Lisa Lednicer
When Skye Schofield-Saba was in kindergarten, her teacher relied on his ears to find her on the playground. “He could always find me if he heard the Mamma Mia! soundtrack,” says the singer.
Now 18, the Arlington teen has long had a penchant for the arts, serving as president of her high school a cappella group, designing stage sets, editing the school literary magazine and interning at the Smithsonian Freer and Sackler Galleries.
But she also feels quite at home outside the confines of a classroom or museum. Each summer, she teaches D.C.-area kids how to sail at a Washington Sailing Marina camp she first attended in third grade. “My mom grew up in Jamaica, so she remembered being on the water and loving all that,” says Schofield-Saba, who returned to the sailing camp each summer, eventually transitioning into a counselor role. “It’s kind of like full circle.”
As a student at St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School, she was elected by faculty members and her peers to serve on the school’s honor and disciplinary board. She and other student board members reviewed two to three student infractions a week, doling out consequences as well as advice. “If they’re stressed, we [empathize],” she says, explaining that her role was not just punitive, but also supportive.
An only child, Schofield-Saba was adopted from China as an infant. Her mother was also adopted. In their household, she says, family is defined not by blood, but rather by “your love for one another.”
She shares an ancient Asian legend that is popular in the adoption community: “Everyone is born with a little red thread tied around their pinkie finger, and it connects you to everyone that you meet in your life. As a little girl, I always believed that I was tied to my family through that red thread... and that transfers to now; I believe I was connected to St. Stephen’s and all the people that I met here.”
This fall, she plans to forge new connections at Tulane University in New Orleans, where she hopes to explore art history and preservation, as well as local culture. –Eliza Tebo Berkon
Nathan Dent has a “distinct early-childhood memory” of struggling through a Curious George book with his mom and fearing he would never learn to read.
Those fears were short-lived. Now a selfdescribed “bookworm,” he’s added some Ernest Hemingway and Chinua Achebe to his reading list. And as his literary palate has expanded, so too have his interests. The Yorktown High School grad served as editor of his school newspaper, president of the Yorktown Young Democrats, and was a member of the adolescent advocacy group the Arlington Teen Network Board. He also composed about 60 (mostly unreleased) songs in genres ranging from “quasi-EDM” to folk—all while maintaining a stellar academic record and holding down a pizza delivery job with Lost Dog Café.
Somewhere in the flurry of articles, sample ballots and study guides, Dent also managed to carve out time with two schoolmates to produce a documentary, The Prison Industrial Complex: The Dark Side of American Criminal Justice, which in 2020 won an honorable mention in a nationwide student competition hosted by C-SPAN. Through interviews with experts and formerly incarcerated individuals, Dent says he learned much more about criminal justice than he could have gleaned from mere research. It’s a field he’d like to pursue in the future, perhaps as a journalist or lawyer.
“Whatever I end up doing, I’d like to feel like I’m making some kind of difference in that area,” says the 18-year-old. “I care deeply that we’re treating people ethically, whether that be people who are on trial, people who are victims, people who are incarcerated— everybody involved in that process.”
This fall, Dent will study journalism at Northwestern University. Though he can’t foretell what lies ahead, he says his time at Yorktown prepared him. “I was always learning from real people, as opposed to the archetype of the high school teacher who doesn’t really seem like anybody you’d encounter in real life,” he says. “I’ve been lucky enough to grow up in a place that really emphasized connecting what you’re learning to the real world.” –Eliza Tebo Berkon
Matthew Sperry can trace his love of skating back to age 5, when he attended a friend’s birthday party at an ice rink. He was so enchanted that he refused to leave the rink until his parents signed him up for lessons.
Ice hockey led to ice theater (yes, that’s a thing), and then to ice dancing— the sport in which he has competed nationally and internationally since age 15, winning silver and bronze medals in the 2018 and 2019 U.S. Figure Skating championships, respectively, with his then-partner Zoe Sensenbrenner.
Though the pandemic sidelined the 2021 competition season, Sperry maintained a rigorous practice schedule, devoting 20 to 25 hours a week to strength training, ballet and ice work. In Feb -
ruary, he was one of 11 skaters out of more than 120 applicants nationwide named to U.S. Figure Skating’s 2021 Scholastic Honors Team. He hopes to compete in the Olympic Games in his late 20s or early 30s.
“I really like the freedom of movement and expression, and I like the fine details and technique,” says the Falls Church teen, now 18. “You can find a connection with the music and show that to the audience.”
Sperry arranged his high school years largely around skating. He attended Stanford Online High School so he could snag ice time in the middle of the day, but he didn’t sacrifice academics. He took college-level math, philosophy and AP Physics, scoring a perfect 36 on the ACT. This fall, he’ll study engineering at the University of Michigan, with a minor in philosophy and the goal of eventually pursuing a career in robotics.
His achievements are all the more impressive in light of his dyslexia, which wasn’t diagnosed until he was in third grade. Over the years, he has learned how to advocate for the accommodations he needs, like text-tospeech software, even when teachers were less than understanding of his disability. “I’ve had to learn how to see it as a strength rather than a weakness and work with it,” he says.
Sperry is also an Eagle Scout; to earn that rank, he built a playhouse roof and designed a rainwater collection system at Columbia Baptist Church in Falls Church. He also volunteers his time teaching ice dancing and skating skills. He could have delayed college for skating, but didn’t want to put his education on hold. Plus, he says—there’s an ice-dancing academy with top-notch coaches about a half-hour away from U-M’s main campus. –Lisa Lednicer
When you foster as many interests as Mira Rizk, it’s tough to pin down a career path. Why not just pool them all together and shoot for the stars?
“I always tell everybody I want to be a space doctor because I want to go to space while also being a doctor,” says the University of Virginiabound senior.
It’s not as crazy as it sounds. Rizk, 18, was able to marry those passions last summer when a team from Bishop O’Connell’s engineering club entered a NASA/Texas Instruments competition. The challenge: invent something to help improve the lives of International Space Station astronauts.
“We created a space pillow, which basically would provide the astronauts with the feel of a pillow from home,” she explains, “while also triggering fans that would take away excess CO2 from around their heads.” Her team placed in the top 25 in the 2020 competition.
While working on the ISS might be her dream job, the McLean teen developed a deep interest in medicine closer to home when her diabetic father underwent open-heart surgery two years ago. “It was a really intense procedure, and the recovery was very long, but I was able to help him through it,” Rizk says. “I found out that caregiving was something that I genuinely love.”
Grateful that her parents, who are from Lebanon, worked so hard to
provide her with so many opportunities, the honors student (she finished her senior year with a 4.6 GPA) likes to give back whenever possible. Just Sweet Bakery, the nonprofit online bakery she started last summer with her cousin—featuring goodies ranging from muffins to madeleines—donated $2,000 to the Lebanon Red Cross and $800 to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. She also belongs to the Keyettes service club, makes grocery and soup deliveries to people who are homebound or homeless, and founded the Outdoors Club at her school.
Rizk says her parents have sometimes urged her to pare down her activities, concerned about overload. But she remains undaunted: “I just find myself never really wanting to stop.” –Rina Rapuano ■
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JESSIE AND MICHAEL Brairton loved the look of their 2018 kitchen and great room remodel so much that they wanted to take it outside. So they returned to the same experts who had made that initial upgrade of their Tara-Leeway Heights home a winner.
In late 2019, they invited contractor Aaron Daley back to convert the deck off the kitchen into a screened porch. “Our prior deck was very small and not really usable space,” Jessie says. “We decided to significantly enlarge the footprint, adding a roof structure and screens so that we could use it for three seasons.”
After Daley designed and built the porch, the couple called interior designer Susan Sutter to talk about furnishings, lighting and finishing touches.
For continuity with the interiors, Sutter went with a similar color scheme (blue and white with pops of coral), choosing materials such as composite
deck flooring and indoor-outdoor Sunbrella fabrics that could withstand the elements. “The goal was to marry the two spaces with a cohesive design that carries from inside to outside,” she says.
A burnished-steel Hibiscus pendant light by Hubbardton Forge sets an overall tone of fun and sophistication. “We wanted to amp up the style points with a unique look,” Sutter explains of the fixture over the dining table, “but with something that wouldn’t feel out of place outside.”
Outfitted for entertaining, the porch features a crisp beadboard ceiling, textured cocktail tables, an indoor/outdoor rug from Dash & Albert, and a Summer Classics table, chairs and sectional sofa. The exposed brick of the home’s exterior wall lends warmth, as does the afternoon sun that shines in, thanks to the porch’s southwest orientation.
“We have two kids, 13 and 10,” Jes-
sie says. “When we first talked to Susan about our project, I told her I wanted light furnishings and she said, ‘Oh, I have the perfect fabric that will wipe clean of any finger or jelly stains.’ We now have a puppy, so the choice of easy-to-clean fabric was perfect!”
The easygoing outdoor space welcomed plenty of friends for wine and cheese this spring, while keeping the cicadas out. “The porch is elevated,” Jessie says. “We’ve been watching the birds build nests in some of the flowering trees in our backyard.” ■
PROJECT CREDITS
Susan Sutter Interiors sutterinteriors.com
Aaron Daley, Remodeling & Restoration Services remodelingandrestoration services.com
This information, courtesy of Bright MLS as of May 18, 2021, includes homes sold in April 2021, 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 95,000 real estate professionals who in turn serve over 20 million consumers. For more information, visit brightmls.com. 1137 Basil Road, McLean
1720 N. Barton St.
List Price: $1.75 million
Sale Price: $1.73 million
Days on Market: 7
Listing Office: Compass
Neighborhood: Lyon Village
Year Built: 1932
Bedrooms: 5
Full/Half Baths: 3/1
1401 21st St. S.
List Price: $1.6 million
Sale Price: $1.65 million
Days on Market: 5
Listing Office: Compass
Neighborhood: Arlington Ridge
Year Built: 1959
Bedrooms: 6
Full/Half Baths: 4/2
47 N. Trenton St.
List Price: $1.12 million
Sale Price: $1.12 million
Days on Market: 6
Listing Office: Smith | Schnider
Neighborhood: Trenton Square at Ballston
Year Built: 2020
Bedrooms: 4
Full/Half Baths: 4/1
5724 Second St. S.
List Price: $1.49 million
Sale Price: $1.49 million
Days on Market: 15
Listing Office: The Albrittain Group
Neighborhood: Carlin Springs
Year Built: 2020
Bedrooms: 5
Full/Half Baths: 5/0
5139 15th St. N.
List Price: $2 million
Sale Price: $2.04 million
Days on Market: 55
Listing Office: McEnearney Associates
Neighborhood: Waycroft-Woodlawn
Year Built: 2020
Bedrooms: 5
Full/Half Baths: 5/1
2561 S. Kenmore Court
List Price: $900,000
Sale Price: $891,000
Days on Market: 4
Listing Office: TTR Sotheby’s International Realty
Neighborhood: Shirlington Crest
Year Built: 2009
Bedrooms: 3
Full/Half Baths: 3/1
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3616 Roberts Lane
List Price: $2.99 million
Sale Price: $3 million
Days on Market: 1
Listing Office: Washington Fine Properties
Neighborhood: Bellevue Forest
Year Built: 2019
Bedrooms: 6
Full/Half Baths: 6/3
1881 N. Nash St., #2309
List Price: $2.65 million
Sale Price: $2.58 million
Days on Market: 279
Listing Office: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty
Neighborhood: Rosslyn
Year Built: 2009
Bedrooms: 3
Full/Half Baths: 3/1
6813 31st St. N.
List Price: $1.75 million
Sale Price: $1.75 million
Days on Market: 3
Listing Office: Redfin Corp.
Neighborhood: Berkshire Oakwood
Year Built: 2013
Bedrooms: 6
Full/Half Baths: 4/1
1137 Basil Road
List Price: $3.95 million
Sale Price: $3.8 million
Days on Market: 329
Listing Office: Yeonas & Shafran Real Estate
Neighborhood: Rokeby Farms
Year Built: 2020
Bedrooms: 5
Full/Half Baths: 5/3
1005 Founders Ridge Lane
List Price: $14 million
Sale Price: $11 million
Days on Market: 96
Listing Office: TTR Sotheby’s International Realty
Neighborhood: The Reserve
Year Built: 2007
Bedrooms: 6
Full/Half Baths: 9/3
22041 (Falls Church)
3511 Duff Drive
List Price: $1.2 million
Sale Price: $1.35 million
Days on Market: 8
Listing Office: TTR Sotheby’s International Realty
Neighborhood: Lake Barcroft
Year Built: 1956
Bedrooms: 4
Full/Half Baths: 3/0
22042 (Falls Church)
6702 McCrea Place
List Price: $1.35 million
Sale Price: $1.34 million
Days on Market: 6
Listing Office: RE/MAX Gateway
Neighborhood: Bel Air
Year Built: 2021
Bedrooms: 5
Full/Half Baths: 4/1
22043 (Falls Church)
2124 McKay St.
List Price: $2.26 million
Sale Price: $2.27 million
Days on Market: 9
Listing Office: KW Metro Center
Neighborhood: Southampton
Year Built: 2020
Bedrooms: 7
Full/Half Baths: 6/2
22044 (Falls Church)
3219 Valley Lane
List Price: $1.6 million
Sale Price: $1.55 million
Days on Market: 1
Listing Office: Homesavey
Neighborhood: Ravenwood
Year Built: 1959
Bedrooms: 6
Full/Half Baths: 5/0
22046 (Falls Church)
116 E. Jefferson St.
List Price: $1.79 million
Sale Price: $1.79 million
Days on Market: 0
Listing Office: Not a Bright MLS
subscriber
Neighborhood: Broadmont
Year Built: 2018
Bedrooms: 6
Full/Half Baths: 5/0
22201
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22204
responsive and answered any and all questions we had. Throughout the buying and selling process, we felt like Donna really listened to us and had our best interests at heart” —NL
22205
22207
Rob Ferguson is as local as they come. A lifelong Northern Virginian with more than 24 years of Arlington real estate expertise, Rob knows the neighborhoods and the local market.
Let Rob show you how his clients become clients for life.
22209
22213 Number
22101
Number
22044
Number
Our service. While our interest rates are quite competitive, our customer service is what sets us apart. From your first phone call until your final signature, our loan officers and processing team are fully accessible whenever needed, day or night, weekday or weekend. We also understand that mortgages should not be one-size-fits-all; that’s why we offer one of the widest arrays of mortgage products in the DMV, and work closely with clients to identify the program that best meets their needs and goals. As a result, we enable people from all walks of life to experience a smooth, predictable process that results in the best mortgage for their circumstances – and to have an experienced loan officer with them every step of the way.
Future Site Location: 7929 Westpark Drive, Tysons, VA 22102
703-348-3752 | www.TheMatherTysons.com Info@TheMatherTysons.com
Mather is a unique not-for-profit organization headquartered in Evanston, Illinois, that is celebrating its 80th anniversary this year. Dedicated to creating Ways to Age Well,SM the organization maintains a constant focus on mission and strategic planning for the future, with an ongoing emphasis on impact, significance and sustainability.
The Mather, projected to open in 2023, is a forward-thinking Life Plan Community for those 62+ where you can let go of worries and embrace opportunities. It’s smack dab in the middle of it all, bordering a three-acre urban park and within walking distance of Tysons rail service, retail and restaurants. The Mather’s apartment homes start from 800 square feet up to 3,300 square feet, featuring expansive views, luxury finishes and innovative smarthome technology. Entrance fees start at $639,800. The Mather will feature 38,000+ square feet of amenities, including multiple restaurants, fitness center, indoor pool, library, art studio, meeting spaces and more! Life Plan Communities are lifestyle communities in which people can pursue new passions and priorities, with a plan in place that supports aging well. Renderings and information shown here are subject to change without notice.
42395 Ryan Road, Ashburn, VA 20148
703-740-9714 | Brambleton.com
Every great plan starts with an idea, and that’s how Brambleton began 20 years ago by Anthony Soave, the original Brambletonian. Mr. Soave envisioned a master planned community near D.C. where residents could find the perfect work/life balance and, quite simply, get more out of life.
Brambleton and its neighboring 55+ community, Birchwood at Brambleton, are conveniently located between the District and beautiful Loudoun County, VA. It’s a short drive east to D.C. to soak up the culture and history of the nation’s capital. If a rural escape is more your style, it’s an equally short drive west to enjoy the great outdoors and agricultural richness of all that Loudoun offers. There are countless ways to enjoy living in Brambleton!
A thriving, convenient Town Center puts you minutes to groceries, restaurants, doctors, movie theaters, health clubs and a state-of-the-art public library. Brambleton’s highly ranked neighborhood schools, pools, parks, recreation areas and 18+ miles of paved trails (plus a year-round, weekly Farmers’ marketplace!) are all conveniently located near our currently selling Downtown Brambleton, West Park and Birchwood neighborhoods, featuring award-winning builders Tri Pointe Homes and Van Metre Homes.
Visit Brambleton.com or BirchwoodatBrambleton.com.
You could say Matt Behringer’s newest venture got off on a sour note. In August 2020, the Dominion Hills resident turned his food fermentation hobby into a business, Behringer Pepper Company, which operates out of Union Kitchen and sells hot sauce and pickles from the food accelerator’s five retail stores in D.C. and Ballston. Behringer grew up in Arlington’s Barcroft neighborhood. He’s been drawn to the culinary arts ever since childhood. “My father was huge into cooking and was a restaurant appliance repairman, so I went with him on jobs and watched the chefs,” says the entrepreneur, who holds a bachelor’s degree in microbiology from Lynchburg College (now the University of Lynchburg).
After leaving a restaurant management job that wasn’t a good
fit, he discovered a YouTube series of tutorials on fermentation and began experimenting with foods like kimchi and sauerkraut. The pepper sauce he concocted is what proved revelatory.
“I’ve yet to find anyone doing a full fermentation hot sauce using only lactobacillus, the natural bacteria on fresh produce, with no vinegar or lactic acid added, to get that unique funky flavor profile,” he says.
Behringer’s classic hot sauce is made with Fresno and habanero peppers, hibiscus, ginger, garlic and cardamom; his pineapple sauce, in addition to its namesake fruit, includes chipotle and habanero peppers and garlic. He says both (which retail for $8.99) are hotter than Tabasco and sriracha, although they haven’t undergone a formal Scoville test, which measures heat
level. His tangy garlic dill pickle chips ($6.49) are also popular.
Union Kitchen has turned out to be just the partner he needed. “I couldn’t just make the sauce in my kitchen and sell it—the health department had to inspect it,” Behringer says. “I looked for rentable kitchen space and found Union Kitchen, which brings in food entrepreneurs looking to get a product to the market and helps them with scaling, branding, licensing, marketing and distributing—things I would never have thought about.”
In addition to the Union Kitchen stores, his products are also sold in several small D.C. food markets.
“We’re now focusing on expanding into smaller grocery stores in Arlington,” he says. “Arlington is where most of my social media following is.” oohthatsspicy.com
I’m struggling to decide what to order at Greens N Teff when owner Beakal Melaku asks if I like spicy food. Nodding the affirmative, I soon find myself tearing off pieces of injera (a flatbread made with the ancient grain teff) and scooping up shimbra asa, a boldly flavored wot (stew) packed with onions, garlic and berbere, a chili-based spice
blend and cornerstone of Ethiopian cooking. Though the menu at this Columbia Pike carryout is completely vegetarian, the chickpea flour dumplings cooked into the wot have a meaty texture. “It’s like a version of doro wot but without the chicken or [hard-boiled] egg,” Melaku explains, referring to his homeland’s bestknown dish.
Greens N Teff follows a familiar fast-casual formula: You choose a base (basmati rice or injera bread), then
pile on proteins and vegetables to your liking, with add-ons such as yeater kik wot (split pea stew), difin misir wot (green lentil stew) and a mushroom tibs that swaps the usual meat for portabellas. Vegetable toppers in the assembly line include gomen (collard greens), fossolia (grilled green beans, carrots and celery mixed with garlic and caramelized onions) and keysir (beets and potatoes). Your best bet? The extra-large plate with three proteins and four vegetables for $13.99.
After immigrating with his family to Alexandria from Addis Ababa in 1996, Melaku graduated from T.C. Williams High School in 1999, earned a bachelor’s degree from Longwood University and worked in IT. He left that field in 2012 to help his parents open a convenience store in D.C. and hoped to pursue his true dream— opening a restaurant—next door, but the deal fell through and his family’s store closed in 2017.
Melaku’s next idea was to open a carryout selling grilled meats and vegetables. To gain commercial kitchen experience, he took a night shift food prep job at the Whole Foods Market in Clarendon, where he couldn’t help noticing a strong local demand for vegetarian food and switched his business plan to a plant-based concept. He says his young daughter’s eating habits (she was born in 2016) also inspired him—she refuses to eat anything with meat.
Melaku found his current location on the Pike on Craigslist and took over the lease from the former tenant, Pho Harmony & Grill, last October. Many of the family recipes at the carryout (there is no seating) are from his mother, Beletshachew Bekure, an excellent cook and, he says, his toughest critic. The berbere and mitmita spice blends are from his wife, Hanna Elias, who makes most of the wots at Greens N Teff.
“We wanted to show our culture through our dishes, passed down from generation to generation, and that you don’t have to get protein from meat,” Melaku says. “We have many repeat customers already. It really is a blessing.” greensnteff.com
If wanderlust has you craving a taste of Southern Italy, Napoli Salumeria in Westpost has the goods—pizza, panini, graband-go pastas and sauces, and traditional dishes like arancino and salt-cod fritters. That’s not all. You can take the dishes home, too. Owner Antonio Ferraro sources his colorful plates, pitchers and platters from artisans in Vietri Sul Mare, an Amalfi Coast town known for its hand-painted ceramics. See something you like? The café stocks a selection of pasta plates, espresso cups and water pitchers for sale. Customers can also commission specific patterns and sizes, along with items such as ceramic tiles, tables, flowers vases and more, says Ferraro, a native of Vico Equense, a coastal town on the outskirts of Naples. Order online (free delivery for orders over $100) or by calling the restaurant at 571-431-7903. napolisalumeria.com
A Modo Mio Pizzeria
5555 Lee Highway, 703-532-0990, amodomio pizza.com. Formerly Joe’s Place Pizza and Pasta, the restaurant has rebranded with a new chef, a new menu (centering on wood-fired pies) and an interior makeover. L D $$
Aladdin Sweets & Tandoor
5169 Lee Highway, 703-533-0077. Chef Shiuli Rashid and her husband, Harun, prepare family recipes of curries and kabobs from their native Bangladesh. L D $$
Ambar Clarendon«
2901 Wilson Blvd., 703-875-9663, ambarrestau rant.com. Feast on Balkan fare such as stuffed cabbage, mushroom pilav and rotisserie meats. An outdoor terrace with dining pods is available. b R L D G V $$
Amore Congelato
1201 S. Joyce St., 571-483-0891, amorecongelato. com. Thereasa Black’s artisanal gelati are made with organic date syrup (in lieu of cane sugar) and oat milk, in flavors such as s’mores, banana pudding and salted-caramel pretzel crunch. G V $
Arlington Kabob
5046 Lee Highway, 703-531-1498, arlingtonkabob va.com. Authentic Afghan fare includes kabobs, wraps, shawarma and quabli palou (lamb shank with rice). L D $$
Arlington Rooftop Bar & Grill
2424 Wilson Blvd., 703-528-3030, arlrooftop.com. There’s plenty of bar food to go with the games, from burgers and wings to oysters and flatbread.
b R L D A G V $$
Baba«
2901 Wilson Blvd., 703-312-7978, baba.bar. This subterranean café, which transforms into a cocktail lounge at night, is a sister to Ambar next door.
B R L D G V $$
Bakeshop
1025 N. Fillmore St., 571-970-6460, bakeshopva. com. Hit this tiny storefront for coffee, cupcakes, cookies, macarons, icebox pies and other treats. Vegan sweets are always available. B V $
Ballston Local
900 N. Glebe Road, 703-852-1260, ballstonlocal. com. Pair your local brew with a plate of poutine, a New York-style pizza and other bar snacks at this buzzy neighborhood newcomer. L D V $$
Bangkok 54
2919 Columbia Pike, 703-521-4070, bangkok54rest aurant.com. A favorite for Thai curries, grilled meats, stir-fry, noodles and soups. L D V $$
Bar Bao
3100 Clarendon Blvd., 703-600-0500, barbao.com. The trendy watering hole serves dishes reminiscent of Chinese and Taiwanese street food, plus sake, soju and Asian fusion cocktails. L D V $$
Barley Mac«
1600 Wilson Blvd., 703-372-9486, barleymacva.com.
You’ll find upscale tavern fare and more than 100 kinds of whiskey and bourbon. R L D A G V $$
Bartaco
4238 Wilson Blvd. (Ballston Quarter), 571-3908226, bartaco.com. A lively spot for tacos (13 kinds) and tequila. Feels like vacation. L D V A $$
Basic Burger
1101 S. Joyce Street, 703-248-9333, basicburger. com. The homegrown eatery (and food truck) cooks with locally sourced, certified Angus beef and cagefree, antibiotic-free chicken. L D $$
Bayou Bakery, Coffee Bar & Eatery« 1515 N. Courthouse Road, 703-243-2410, bayou bakeryva.com. Chef David Guas’ New Orleans-in-
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
$$$$ $71 or more
b Outdoor Dining
Children’s Menu
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
After Hours/Late Night G Gluten-Free
Vegetarian
« Best of Arlington 2019, 2020 or 2021 Winner
spired menu changes often, but you can always count on beignets and gumbo. Breakfast all day on Sundays. b B R L D G V $
Bethesda Bagels
1851 N. Moore St., 703-312-1133, bethesdabagels. com. The popular D.C.-area chain is now in Rosslyn. Eat a sandwich! b L V $
BGR the Burger Joint
3129 Lee Highway, 703-812-4705, bgrtheburger joint.com. Top your dry-aged beef with options like grilled jalapeño, pineapple or fried egg. Veggie and turkey burgers are options. L D V $
Big Buns Damn Good Burger Co.
4401 Wilson Blvd., 4251 Campbell Ave., Arlington, 703-933-2867, eatbigbuns.com. Satisfy your cravings with “designer” burgers, shakes, beer and booze. L D $$
Bob & Edith’s Diner
2310 Columbia Pike, 703-920-6103; 539 23rd St. S., 703-920-2700; 5150 Lee Highway, 703-5940280; bobandedithsdiner.com. Founded in 1969, the 24-hour eatery whips up pancakes, eggs, grits, meatloaf, shakes and pie à la mode. B L D A V $
Bollywood Bistro Express
4238 Wilson Blvd. (Ballston Quarter), 571-3121071, bollywoodbistroexpress.com. Build your own bowl with fillers such as chicken tikka, lamb kabob, tofu, paneer cheese, chana masala, pickled onions, greens and a variety of sauces. L D V $$
Bonsai Sushi at Crystal City
553 23rd St. S., 703-553-7723, crystalbonsai sushirestaurant.com. Pick up sushi, sashimi, yakisoba, tempura, teriyaki. Closed Mondays. L D $$
Bread & Water Company
1201 S. Joyce St., 703-567-6698, breadand watercompany.com. The cafe-bakery serves sandwiches, salads, soups and pastries. Grab a loaf of Markos Panas’ addictive, rustic “M” bread to take home. B L V $
Bronson Bierhall
4100 Fairfax Drive, 703-528-1110, bronsonbier hall.com. You’ll find communal tables, 16 German and regional beers on tap, sausages, schnitzel and cornhole in this 6,000-square-foot bar ode to Munich. b L D A $$
Busboys and Poets
4251 S. Campbell Ave., 703-379-9757, busboys andpoets.com. Known for its poetry slams, onsite bookstore and social justice programming, the cafe offers an eclectic menu with oodles of options for vegetarians. b B R L D G V $$
The Café by La Cocina VA
918 S. Lincoln St., 703-596-1557, lacocinava.org/ café-main. This lunch spot operated by La Cocina VA, a nonprofit that trains immigrants for culinary careers, serves soups, salads, sandwiches, Dog Tag Bakery pastries and Swing’s coffee. L V $
Café Colline
4536 Lee Highway, 703-567-6615, cafecollineva. com. Helmed by executive chef Brendan L’Etoile,
the cozy French bistro in the Lee Heights Shops satisfies with dishes such as paté maison, duck confit and chocolate pots de creme. b L D $$
Café Sazón
4704 Columbia Pike, 703-566-1686, cafesazon. com. A homey Bolivian café specializing in dishes such as silpancho and empanadas. B L D V $$
Caribbean Grill
5183 Lee Highway, 703-241-8947. Cuban preparations such as jerk-style pork, fried plantains and black bean soup are mainstays. L D G V $ Carlyle
4000 Campbell Ave., 703-931-0777, greatamerican restaurants.com/carlyle. The original anchor of Shirlington Village is a reliable pick for fusion fare, happy hour and Sunday brunch. b R L D G V $$$ Cava
1201 Wilson Blvd., 703-652-7880; 4121 Wilson Blvd., 703-310-6791; cava.com. Build your own salad, wrap or bowl, choosing from an array of Greek dips, spreads, proteins and toppings. L D G V $$ Cava Mezze
2940 Clarendon Blvd., 703-276-9090, cavamezze. com. Greek small plates include octopus, roasted eggplant, zucchini fritters, souvlaki, briny cheeses and succulent lamb. R L D G V $$$
The Celtic House Irish Pub & Restaurant 2500 Columbia Pike, 703-746-9644, celtichouse. net. The pub on the Pike serves favorites like corned beef and traditional Irish breakfast. R L D A $$
Chasin’ Tails
2200 N. Westmoreland St., 703-538-2565, chasintailscrawfish.com. It’s the place to go for a spicy, messy, finger-lickin’ Cajun crawfish boil. Lunch on weekends only. L D $$
Cheesetique
4024 Campbell Ave., 703-933-8787; cheesetique. com. The cheese shop and wine bar offers small plates, cheese boards and more. b B L D V $$
Circa at Clarendon
3010 Clarendon Blvd., 703-522-3010, circabistros. com. Bistro fare ranges from salads and small plates to steak frites and wild mushroom pizza. Sit outside if you can. b R L D A G V $$$
Colony Grill
2800 Clarendon Blvd., 703-682-8300, colonygrill. com. The Stamford, Connecticut-based pizza chain specializes in ultra-thin-crust “bar pies” with a spicy, pepper-infused hot oil topping. L D G V $$
Copa Kitchen & Bar
4238 Wilson Blvd. (Ballston Quarter), 571-4830324, copakitchenbar.com. Watch sports and munch on Spanish comfort foods like chorizo-manchego flatbread. B R L D A $$
Copperwood Tavern
4021 Campbell Ave., 703-522-8010, copperwood tavern.com. The hunting-and-fishing-themed saloon serves up steaks and chops, 24 draft beers and 30 small-batch whiskeys. b R L D $$$
Cowboy Café
4792 Lee Highway, 703-243-8010, thecowboycafe. com. Cool your heels and fill up on sandwiches, burgers, brisket and chili mac. A new outdoor beer garden features a mural by Arlington artist MasPaz. Live music on weekends. b R L D V $$
Crafthouse
901 N. Glebe Road, 703-962-6982, crafthouse usa.com. Locally sourced bar food, plus Virginia beer, wine and spirits equals a good time. b L D A $$
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 and pub grub. 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 Pastry 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 $$
Darna
946 N. Jackson St., 703-988-2373, darnava.com. Grilled kabobs, mezze and traditional Lebanese comfort foods are served in a modern setting. The upstairs is a hookah bar. L D V $$
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. b L D G V $$
Detour Coffee
946 N. Jackson St., 703-988-2378, detourcoffee co.com. The comfy cafe has a college vibe and serves up locally roasted coffee, light bites and weekend brunch. b R L D V $
District Taco«
5723 Lee Highway, 703-237-1204; 1500 Wilson Blvd., 571-290-6854; districttaco.com. A local favorite for tacos and gargantuan burritos. B L D G V $
Don Tito
3165 Wilson Blvd., 703-566-3113, dontitova.com.
Located in a historic building, the sports bar specializes in tacos, tequila and beer, with a rooftop bar. b R L D $$
Dudley’s Sport & Ale
2766 S. Arlington Mill Drive, 571-312-2304, dudleyssportandale.com. The 13,000-square-foot sports bar has wall-to-wall TVs, a roof deck, a ballpark-inspired beer list and pub food, plus weekend brunch. b R L D A $$
Earl’s Sandwiches
2605 Wilson Boulevard, 703-647-9191, earlsinarling ton.com. Made-to-order sandwiches use prime ingredients, like fresh roasted turkey. b B L D G V $
East West Coffee Wine
1901 N. Moore St., 3101 Wilson Blvd., 571-8009954, eastwestcoffeewine.com. The cafe with locations in Rosslyn and Clarendon serves espresso drinks, brunch (try the massive Turkish breakfast spread), sandwiches, tapas, beer and wine. B L D $
El Charrito Caminante
2710-A N. Washington Blvd., 703-351-1177. This bare-bones Salvadoran takeout counter hits the spot with tacos, burritos and pupusas. L D V $
El Paso Café
4235 N. Pershing Drive, 703-243-9811, elpaso cafeva.com. Big portions, big margaritas and bighearted service make this Tex-Mex cantina a local favorite. L D G V $$
El Pike (Pike Pizza)
4111 Columbia Pike, 703-521-3010, restaurant pike.com. Bolivian dishes satisfy at this no-frills eatery. Try the salteñas stuffed with chicken or beef, olives and hard-boiled egg. L D $
El Pollo Rico«
932 N. Kenmore St., 703-522-3220, elpollorico restaurant.com. A local institution, this rotisserie chicken mecca gained even more street cred after a visit from the late Anthony Bourdain. L D V $
Elevation Burger
2447 N. Harrison St., 703-300-9467, elevationburger. 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. b L D V $
Endo Sushi
3000 Washington Blvd., 703-243-7799, endosushi. com. A go-to spot for sashimi, teriyaki, donburi and maki. L D V $$
Epic Smokehouse
1330 S. Fern St., 571-319-4001, epicsmoke house.com. Wood-smoked meats and seafood served in a modern setting. b L D G $$$
Essy’s Carriage House Restaurant 4030 Lee Highway, 703-525-7899, essyscarriage house.com. Kick it old school with crab imperial, lamb chops and prime rib. B L D G $$$
Federico Ristorante Italiano
519 23rd St., 703-486-0519, federicoristorante italiano.com. Find pasta, chianti and red-checkered tablecloths at this Crystal City trattoria co-owned by Freddie’s Beach Bar owner Freddie Lutz. L D V $$
Fettoosh
5100 Wilson Blvd., 703-527-7710, fettoosh.com.
Overstuffed pita sandwiches and kabobs keep the kitchen fired up at this bargain-priced Lebanese and Moroccan restaurant. R L D G V $
Fire Works
2350 Clarendon Blvd., 703-527-8700, fireworks pizza.com. Wood-fired pizzas and more than 30 craft beers on tap are mainstays. You can also build your own pasta dish. b L D A G V $$
First Down Sports Bar & Grill
4213 Fairfax Drive, 703-465-8888, firstdownsports bar.com. Choose among 20 draft beers and snacks ranging from sliders to queso dip. L D A V $$
Four Sisters Grill
3035 Clarendon Blvd., 703-243-9020, foursisters grill.com. Here, the family behind Four Sisters in Merrifield serves up banh mi sandwiches, papaya salad, spring rolls and noodle dishes. b L D $$
The Freshman
2011 Crystal Drive, thefreshmanva.com. Nick Freshman’s casual dining concept has something for every appetite and every time of day, from coffee and breakfast sandwiches to oysters and negronis. b B L D V $$
Fyve
1250 S. Hayes St. (inside The Ritz-Carlton Pentagon City), 703-412-2762, ritzcarlton.com/pentag oncity. The hotel restaurant serves globally influenced dishes. For a treat, go for afternoon tea. B R L D G V $$$$
Gaijin Ramen Shop
3800 Lee Highway, 703-566-9236, gaijinramen shop.com. Choose your broth and toppings, from pork shoulder to pickled vegetables. Gaijin makes its own noodles in-house daily. D V $$
Galaxy Hut
2711 Wilson Blvd., 703-525-8646, galaxyhut.com. Pair craft beers with vegan bar foods like “fricken” (fake chicken) sandwich melts and smothered tots with cashew cheese curds. L D A G V $$
Gharer Khabar
5157 Lee Highway, 703-973-2432, gharerkhaba rtogo.com. Translated as “home’s food,” this art-filled, 14-seat café serves Bangladeshi fare cooked by native chef Nasima Shreen. Try the goat biryani. L D $$
Good Company Doughnuts & Café 672 N. Glebe Road, 703-243-3000, gocodough.com. The family- and veteran-owned eatery serves housemade doughnuts, Intelligentsia coffee and other breakfast and lunch fare. B L V $$
Good Stuff Eatery
2110 Crystal Drive, 703-415-4663, goodstuff eatery.com. Spike Mendelsohn’s Crystal City outpost offers gourmet burgers (beef, turkey or mushroom), shakes, fries and salads. L D G V $
Goody’s
3125 Wilson Blvd., 703-351-7827, goodyspizzain arlington.com. A late-night go-to for New York-style pizza, subs, ice cream and breakfast sandwiches. B L D A V $
Grand Cru Wine Bar and Bistro 4301 Wilson Blvd., 703-243-7900, grandcru-wine. com. This intimate European-style café includes a wine shop next door. b R L D G $$$
Green Pig Bistro« 1025 N. Fillmore St., 703-888-1920, greenpig bistro.com. Southern influenced food, craft cocktails, a daily happy hour and weekend brunch draw fans
to this congenial neighborhood hideaway. Chef Tracy O’Grady helms the kitchen. R L D G V $$$
Greens N Teff
3203 Columbia Pike, 571-510-4063, greensnteff. com. This vegetarian, fast-casual Ethiopian carryout prompts customers to choose a base (injera bread or rice) then pile on spicy, plant-based stews and other toppings. b L D G V $
Guajillo
1727 Wilson Blvd., 703-807-0840, guajillo mexican.com. Authentic Mexican dishes such as carne asada, mole poblano and churros are favorites. b L D G V $$
Guapo’s Restaurant
4028 Campbell Ave., 703-671-1701, guaposrest aurant.com. Expect hearty portions of all the TexMex standbys—quesadillas, enchiladas, fajitas, tacos and burritos. b R L D G V $$
Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ
1119 N. Hudson St., 571-527-0445, gyu-kaku.com. Marinated meats, veggies and seafood are cooked on tabletop grills. D $$
Hanabi Ramen
3024 Wilson Blvd., 703-351-1275, hanabiramen usa.com. Slurp multiple variations of the popular noodle dish, plus rice bowls and dumplings. L D $$
Happy Eatery Vietnamese Kitchen
1800 N. Lynn St., 571-800-1881, thehappy eatery.com. Vietnamese comfort foods (think banh mi, noodle soups and rice bowls) are the stock-intrade at this Rosslyn food hall. L D $$
Heidelberg Pastry Shoppe
2150 N. Culpeper St., 703-527-8394, heidelberg bakery.com. Fill up on baked goods as well as 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. b L D A $$
Hot Lola’s« 4238 Wilson Blvd. (Ballston Quarter), hotlolas chicken.com. It’s all about Kevin Tien’s Nashvillemeets-Sichuan hot chicken sandwiches. L D $
Ireland’s Four Courts
2051 Wilson Blvd., 703-525-3600, irelandsfour courts.com. Irish fare includes cider-braised short ribs, a Guinness-marinated burger and imported cheeses from general manager Dave Cahill’s family farm in County Limerick. R L D A V $$ Istanbul Grill
4617 Wilson Blvd., 571-970-5828, istanbulgrillkebabshop.business.site. Satisfy your craving for Turkish meze and kabobs at this homey spot in Bluemont. L D V $$
The Italian Store« 3123 Lee Highway, 703-528-6266; 5837 Washington Blvd., 571-341-1080; italianstore.com. A cultstatus destination for pizzas, sandwiches, prepared entrées, espresso and gelato. b L D G V $
Jaleo
2250-A Crystal Drive, 703-413-8181, jaleo.com. Spanish croquettes and housemade chorizo carry forth chef José Andrés’ enduring reputation as the maestro of tapas. b L D G V $$$
Kabob Palace
2315 S. Eads St., 703-486-3535, kabobpalaceusa.
com. A Crystal City favorite for grilled meats, pillowy naan and savory sides. L D A G V $$
Kanpai Restaurant
1401 Wilson Blvd., 703-527-8400, kanpai-sushi.com. The STTR (spicy tuna tempura roll) is a must at this Rosslyn sushi spot. b L D G V $$
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 $$
La Côte D’Or Café
6876 Lee Highway, 703-538-3033, lacotedorarling ton.com. This little French bistro serves standards like crepes and steak frites. b R L D G V $$$
Layalina
5216 Wilson Blvd., 703-525-1170, layalinarest aurant.com. Lebanese and Syrian dishes aim to please at this family-owned restaurant. Closed Mondays. b L D A V $$
Lebanese Taverna
5900 Washington Blvd., 703-241-8681; 1101 S. Joyce St., Pentagon Row, 703-415-8681; lebanese taverna.com. A local favorite for mezze, kabobs, flatbreads and more. b L D G V $$
Le Pain Quotidien
2900 Clarendon Blvd., 703-465-0970, lepainquo tidien.com. The Belgian chain produces Europeanstyle cafe fare. B L D G V $$
The Liberty Tavern«
3195 Wilson Blvd., 703-465-9360, thelibertytavern. com. This Clarendon anchor offers a spirited bar and creative cuisine fueled by two wood-burning ovens. b R L D A G V $$$
Livin’ the Pie Life
2166 N. Glebe Road, 571-431-7727, livinthepielife. com. The wildly popular pie operation started as an Arlington farmers market stand. B L V $$
The Local Oyster« 4238 Wilson Blvd. (Ballston Quarter), 844-7482537, thelocaloyster.com. Seafood lovers can feast on raw bar, steamers, crabcakes, lobster rolls and “sammies” at this outpost of the Baltimore original. Currently operating weekends only. L D G $$
Lost Dog Café
5876 Washington Blvd., 703-237-1552; 2920 Columbia Pike, 703-553-7770; lostdogcafe.com. Known for its pizzas, subs and craft beer selection, this deli/café and its multiple franchises support pet adoption through the Lost Dog and Cat Rescue Foundation. L D G V $$
Lucky Danger
1101 S. Joyce St., Unit B27 (Westpost), luckydanger. co. Chefs Tim Ma and Andrew Chiou put a fresh spin on Chinese-American takeout with dishes such as duck fried rice, lo mein and egg omelet with pickled radish. L D V $$
Lyon Hall«
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 mussels and pickled vegetables. b R L D A V $$$
Maizal
4238 Wilson Blvd. (Ballston Quarter), 571-3966500, maizalstreetfood.com. South American street food—arepas, empanadas, yuca fries, Peruvian fried rice, street corn and churros. L D V $
Mala Tang
3434 Washington Blvd., 703-243-2381, mala-tang. com. Chef Liu Chaosheng brings the tastes and traditions of his hometown, Chengdu, to this eatery specializing in Sichuan hot pot. b L D G V $$
Mario’s Pizza House
3322 Wilson Blvd., mariopizzahouse.com. Open into the wee hours, it’s been cooking up subs, wings and pizza since 1957. b B L D A $
Mattie and Eddie’s
1301 S. Joyce St., 571-312-2665, mattieand eddies.com. It’s not just an Irish bar. Chef Cathal Armstrong’s Westpost establishment serves farmto-table dishes like lobster pot pie, house-cured corned beef, black pudding and sardines on toast, and Irish breakfast all day. b R L D $$$
Maya Bistro
5649 Lee Highway, 703-533-7800, bistromaya.com. The family-owned restaurant serves Turkish and Mediterranean comfort food. L D V $$
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 watering hole on Crystal City’s restaurant row. b R L D A $$
Me Jana
2300 Wilson Blvd., 703-465-4440, mejanarestau rant.com. Named for an old Lebanese folk ballad, this Middle Eastern eatery offers prime peoplewatching in Clarendon. b L D G V $$
Mele Bistro
1723 Wilson Blvd., 703-522-0284, melebistro.com. Like to know where your food comes from? This farm-to-table Mediterranean restaurant cooks with fresh, organic, free-range, regionally-sourced, nonGMO ingredients. b R L D G V $$
Meridian Pint
6035 Wilson Blvd., 703-300-9655, meridianpint. com. The brewpub that John Andrade transplanted from D.C. to Dominion Hills is now under new ownership, but it still serves craft brews, burgers, salads and bar food. R D A G V $$
Metro 29 Diner
4711 Lee Highway, 703-528-2464, metro29.com. Classic diner fare includes triple-decker sandwiches, mile-high desserts, burgers, roasted chicken and breakfast. B R L D V $
Mexicali Blues
2933 Wilson Blvd., 703-812-9352, mexicali-blues. com. The colorful landmark dishes out Salvadoran and Mexican chow. b R L D G V $$
Moby Dick House of Kabob
3000 Washington Blvd., 703-465-1600; 4037 Campbell Ave., 571-257-8214; mobyskabob.com. Satisfy that hankering for Persian skewers and flavorful sides. L D $$
Mussel Bar & Grille
800 N. Glebe Road, 703-841-2337, musselbar.com. Chef Robert Wiedmaier’s Ballston eatery is known for mussels, frites, wood-fired pizza and more than 100 Belgian and craft beers. b L D $$
Namaste Everest
1201 S. Joyce St., 703-567-4322, namasteeverest. com. Try modern Indian and Nepalese dishes, from lamb or goat curry to momos (Nepalese dumplings), with a mango, mint or banana lassie. L D G V $$
Nam-Viet
1127 N. Hudson St., 703-522-7110, namvietva.com. The venerable restaurant specializes in flavors of Vietnam’s Can Tho region. b L D V $$
Napoli Salumeria
1301 S. Joyce St. (Westpost), 571-431-7903, napoli salumeria.com. Chef Antonio Ferraro’s market/café offers pizza, pasta, panini, dolci and grab-and-go provisions. b L D V $$
Northside Social Coffee & Wine« 3211 Wilson Blvd., 703-465-0145, northsidesocial arlington.com. The homey, two-story coffee and wine bar (with a big patio) is always busy...which tells you something. b B L D V $$
Oby Lee
3000 N. Washington Blvd., 571-257-5054, obylee. com. Crepes and quiche are the bill of fare at this European-style café, bakery, wine shop and coffee roastery. b B L D G $$
Old Dominion Pizza
4514 Lee Highway, 703-718-6372, olddominion pizza.com. Order thin crust or “grandma style” pies named after local high school mascots. L D G $ Open Road
1201 Wilson Blvd., 703-248-0760, openroadgrill. com. This second location of the American saloon (the first is in Merrifield) is a solid pick for burgers and beers, or a proper entrée (blackened salmon, grilled half chicken, steak frites) and a craft cocktail. b L D $$
Origin Coffee Lab & Kitchen
1101 S. Joyce St., 703-567-7295, origincoffeeco. com. Housed in a modern warehouse-like space (a former Starbucks), this Westpost coffee shop roasts its own beans and serves all-day breakfast, as well as bar munchies and dinner plates. b B R L D V $$
Osteria da Nino
2900 S. Quincy St. (Village at Shirlington), 703820-1128, osteriadaninova.com. For those days when you’re craving a hearty portion of spaghetti and clams, or gnocci with pesto. b D G V $$$
O’Sullivan’s Irish Pub
3207 Washington Blvd., 703-812-0939, osullivans irishpub.com. You’ll find owner and County Kerry native Karen O’Sullivan behind the bar, pouring pints and cracking jokes. L D A $$
Palette 22
4053 Campbell Ave., 703-746-9007, palette22.com.
The gallery-café specializes in international small plates. b R L D V $$
Pamplona
3100 Clarendon Blvd., 703-685-9950, pamplona va.com. Spanish tapas, paella, grilled fish, pintxos, cocktails, snacks and sangria. b R D A V $$
Peking Pavilion
2912 N. Sycamore St., 703-237-6868. This family-owned restaurant serves standbys such as moo shu pork and beef with broccoli. L D $$
Peruvian Brothers at The Stand
1601 Crystal Drive, 703-413-8048, peruvianbroth ers.com. Can’t catch up with their food truck? Stop by this Crystal City kiosk for empanadas, alfajores and Inca kola. B L $
Peter Chang Arlington
2503-E N. Harrison St., 703-538-6688, peterchang arlington.com. The former Chinese Embassy chef brings his fiery and flavorful Sichuan cooking to the Lee Harrison Shopping Center. L D $$
Pho 75«
1721 Wilson Blvd., 703-525-7355, pho75.rest aurantwebexpert.com. The piping-hot soup at this local institution is all about fresh ingredients. b L D V $
Pie-tanza
2503-B N. Harrison St., 703-237-0200, pie-tanza. com. Enjoy pizza (including gluten-free options), calzones, lasagna, subs and salads. L D G V $$
The Pinemoor
1101 N. Highland St., 571-970-2592, thepinemoor.com. Reese Gardner’s country-western saloon turns out steaks, burgers, local seafood and weekend brunch. b R L D G V $$
Pupatella«
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. b L D V $$
Pupuseria Doña Azucena
71 N. Glebe Road, 703-248-0332, pupuseriadona azucena.com. Beans, rice and massive pupusas at dirt-cheap prices. L D V $
Quarterdeck
1200 Fort Myer Drive, 703-528-2722, quarterdeck arlington.com. This beloved shack has served up steamed crabs for 40 years. b L D V $$
Queen Mother’s Fried Chicken
918 S. Lincoln St., 703-596-1557, rocksolidfood. com. Chef Rock Harper has transplanted his fried chicken sandwich operation from D.C. to Arlington, where he now shares a kitchen and dining space with The Café at La Cocina VA. 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 $$
Ragtime
1345 N. Courthouse Road, 703-243-4003, ragtime restaurant.com. Savor a taste of the Big Easy in offerings such as jambalaya, catfish, spiced shrimp and oysters. Or feast on the waffle and omelet bar every Sunday. b R L D A V $$
Ravi Kabob House
350 N. Glebe Road, 703-522-6666; 250 N. Glebe Road, 703-816-0222. Curries, kabobs and delectably spiced veggies keep this strip-mall café plenty busy. L D V $$
Rebellion on the Pike
2900 Columbia Pike, 703-888-2044, rebellionon thepike.com. This irreverent tavern sports a deep list of craft beers and whiskeys, and serves burgers (including one zinger called the “Ramsay Bolton”), six kinds of wings and other pub grub. b R B D A $$
The Renegade
3100 Clarendon Blvd., 703-468-4652, renegadeva. com. Is it a coffee shop, restaurant, bar or live music club? All of the above. And Patrick Crump’s adventurous menu includes everything from cinnamon lambchop lollipops to lo mein. B L D A $$
Rhodeside Grill
1836 Wilson Blvd., 703-243-0145, rhodesidegrill.com. Feast on chops, meatloaf, burgers and po’boys accompanied by every kind of hot sauce imaginable. b R L D A V $$
Rice Crook
4238 Wilson Blvd. (Ballston Quarter), ricecrook.com. Korean-inspired rice bowls, salads and wraps made with locally sourced meats and produce. L D $$
Rien Tong Asian Bistro
3131 Wilson Blvd., 703-243-8388, rientong.com. The large menu includes Thai and Chinese standards, plus sushi. L D V $$
Rocklands Barbeque and Grilling Co.
3471 Washington Blvd., 703-528-9663, rocklands. com. Owner John Snedden has been slow-cooking barbecue since 1990. b L D G V $
Ruffino’s Spaghetti House
4763 Lee Highway, 703-528-2242, ruffinosarling ton.com. It’s under new ownership (Mina Tawdaros bought it in October, fulfilling a lifelong dream), but the menu still includes classics classics such as veal Parmigiana and chicken piccata. L D V $$
Rustico
4075 Wilson Blvd., 571-384-1820, rusticorestau rant.com. You’ll find more than 400 beers to complement dishes from pizza to grilled trout and pastrami pork ribs. b R L D G V $$
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 $$
Ruthie’s All-Day«
3411 Fifth St. S., 703-888-2841, ruthiesallday.com. Chef Matt Hill’s Southern-inspired “meat and three” serves up wood-smoked meats, chicken and fish with creative sides ranging from kimchi dirty rice to crispy Brussels sprouts with fish sauce vinaigrette. Breakfast (with house-made biscuits) offered daily. b B R L D G V $$
Saigon Noodles & Grill
1800 Wilson Blvd., 703-566-5940, saigonnoodles grill.com. The Rosslyn eatery owned by Arlington resident Tuan Nguyen serves pho, banh mi and other traditional Vietnamese dishes. L D G V $$
Salt
1201 Wilson Blvd., 703-875-0491, saltrosslyn. com. The speakeasy-style cocktail bar, which shares a kitchen with Open Road, serves tasty nibbles (cheese plates, oysters, carpaccio) with classic Sazeracs and Old Fashioneds, as well as nouveau craft cocktails. D $$
Samuel Beckett’s Irish Gastro Pub 2800 S. Randolph St., 703-379-0122, samuel becketts.com. A modern Irish pub serving Emerald Isle recipes. b R L D A G V $$
Sawatdee Thai Restaurant
2250 Clarendon Blvd., 703-243-8181, sawatdeeva. com. The friendly eatery (its name means “hello”) is frequented by those craving pad thai or pad prik king. L D V $$
Screwtop Wine Bar and Cheese Shop
1025 N. Fillmore St., 703-888-0845, screwtop winebar.com. The congenial wine bar/shop offers tastings, wine classes, and small plates for sharing and pairing. b R L D G V $$
Sense of Place Café & Roastery 4807 First St. N., 571-319-0414, senseofplacecafe. com. The “laptop free” café serves Enzymo coffee drinks, matcha tea, sweets and sandwiches. B L $
SER
1110 N. Glebe Road, 703-746-9822, ser-restau rant.com. Traditional Spanish and Basque dishes in a colorful, friendly space with outstanding service. b R L D V $$$
Sfoglina Pasta House
1100 Wilson Blvd., sfoglinapasta.com/rosslyn. Fabio Trabocchi’s Rosslyn outpost is a destination for housemade pasta (you can watch it being made), a “mozzarella bar” and Italian cocktails. Closed Monday-Wednesday. b L D V $$$
Silver Diner«
3200 Wilson Blvd., 703-812-8600, silverdiner. com. The kitchen cooks with organic ingredients, many of which are sourced from local suppliers. Low-calorie and gluten-free menu choices available. b B R L D A G V $$
Slapfish
671 N. Glebe Road, 571-312-4610, slapfishrestau rant.com. Grab some clam chowder, fish tacos or a lobster roll and pretend you are beachside. L D $$
Sloppy Mama’s Barbeque
5731 Lee Highway, 4238 Wilson Blvd. (Ballston Quarter), sloppymamas.com. Joe and Mandy Neuman’s barbecue joint offers wood-smoked meats galore— brisket, pork, chicken, ribs, turkey, sausage. Plus hearty sides and banana pudding for dessert. b B R L D $$
Smokecraft Modern Barbecue«
1015 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. b L D G V $$
Smoking Kow BBQ
2910 N. Sycamore St., smokingkowbbq.com. At this Kansas City-style ’cue joint, meats seasoned with a rub of 15 spices are smoked over cherry and hickory wood for 18-20 hours. L D $$
South Block«
3011 11th St. N., 703-741-0266; 1550 Wilson Blvd., 703-465-8423; 4150 Wilson Blvd., 703-4658423; 2121 N. Westmoreland St., 703-534-1542; southblockjuice.com. Cold-pressed juices, smoothies and acai bowls. b B L V $
Spice Kraft Indian Bistro
1135 N. Highland St., 703-527-5666, spicekraft va.com. Occupying the former Delhi Club space, this contemporary concept by restaurateurs Anthony Sankar and Premnath Durairaj gives Indian classics a modern spin. b L D $$
Spider Kelly’s 3181 Wilson Blvd., 703-312-8888, spiderkellys.com. The “come as you are” bar offers a sizable beer list, creative cocktails, salads, burgers, snacks and breakfast at all hours. D A G V $$
Stellina Pizzeria
2800 S. Randolph St., 703-962-7884, stellina pizzeria.com. Visit this bright Shirlington eatery for Neapolitan pies, fried artichokes, squid ink pasta and a deli counter that offers house-made pastas, sauces, antipasti and dolci to take home. b L D $$
Supreme Hot Pot
2301 Columbia Pike, 571-666-1801, supreme hotpot.kwickmenu.com. This Pike eatery specializes in Szechuan hot pot, as well as skewered meats and a few Cajun seafood dishes. A sauce bar allows diners to choose and create their own dipping sauces. D G $$
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 $$
Sushi-Zen Japanese Restaurant
2457 N. Harrison St., 703-534-6000, sushizen. com. An amicable, light-filled neighborhood stop for sushi, donburi, tempura and udon.
L D V $$
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. b L D G V $
Sweet Leaf
2200 Wilson Blvd., 703-525-5100; 800 N. Glebe Road, 703-522-5000; 650 N. Quincy St., 703527-0807; sweetleafcafe.com. Build your own
sandwiches and salads with fresh ingredients. b B L D $$
Taco Bamba Ballston 4000 Wilson Blvd., 571-777-1477, tacobamba.com. Every Bamba location tucks an homage or two onto its menu. Here, the taco options include the El Rico Pollo, stuffed with “Peruvian-ish” chicken, green chili puree, aji Amarillo aioli, salsa criolla, serrano chile and crispy potato. B L D V $
Taco + Pina
4041 Campbell Ave., 703-567-4747, tacoandpina. com. Try an order of Fanta pork carnitas or the vegetarian “chile relleno” taco, and cool your heels with a frozen roasted pineapple margarita. b L D V $$
Taco Rock
1501 Wilson Blvd., 571-775-1800, thetacorock.com. This rock-themed watering hole keeps the margaritas and Micheladas flowing alongside creative tacos on housemade blue-corn tortillas. B L D V $$
Takohachi Japanese Restaurant
3249 Columbia Pike, 571-312-7678, ordertakohachi japanese.com. The sushi bar offers $1 nigiri all day, plus favorites like tonkatsu ramen, tempura and saki. L D $$
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. L D G V $$
Ted’s Bulletin & Sidekick Bakery
4238 Wilson Blvd. #1130 (Ballston Quarter), 703848-7580, tedsbulletin.com. The retro comfort food and all-day breakfast place has healthier fare, too—which you can undo with a visit to its tantalizing bakery next door. B R L D G V $$
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. b L D A $$ T.H.A.I. in Shirlington
4209 Campbell Ave., 703-931-3203, thaiinshirling ton.com. Pretty dishes include lemongrass salmon with black sticky rice. b L D G V $$$
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 $$
Thai Square
3217 Columbia Pike, 703-685-7040, thaisquarerestaurant.com. The signature dish is No. 61, deep-fried, sugar-glazed squid topped with crispy fried basil. b L D G V $$
Thirsty Bernie
2163 N. Glebe Road, 703-248-9300, thirstybernie. com. Wiener schnitzel, pierogies and bratwurst provide sustenance in this Bavarian sports bar and grill. b R L D V $$
Toby’s Homemade Ice Cream
5849-A Washington Blvd., 703-536-7000, tobys icecream.com. Owner Toby Bantug makes premium ice creams, floats and sundaes. Coffee, pastries and bagels available in the morning. B L D V $
Trade Roots
5852 Washington Blvd., 571-335-4274, fairtrade roots.com. Lisa Ostroff’s Westover gift shop and cafe serves fair-trade coffee, tea, pastries, salads, organic wine and snackable fare like mini empanadas and Portuguese flatbread. b B L $
Troy’s Italian Kitchen
2710 Washington Blvd., 703-528-2828, troysitalian kitchen.com. Palak and Neel Vaidya’s mom-andpop serves pizza, pasta and calzones, including a lengthy vegan menu with options like “chicken” tikka masala pizza. L D G V $
True Food Kitchen
4238 Wilson Blvd. (Ballston Quarter), 703-5270930, truefoodkitchen.com. Emphasizing “anti-inflammatory” fare, the menu will convince you that healthy tastes good. b L D G V $$
TTT – Tacos, Tortas & Tequila
2900 Wilson Blvd., tttrestaurant.com. Ivan Iricanin’s ode to Mexico has all the colorful options you’d expect—tacos, enchiladas, street corn, six kinds of salsa and fruity margaritas, plus a sprawling rooftop lounge with expansive views. b B R L D $$
Tupelo Honey Café
1616 N. Troy St., 703-253-8140, tupelohoneycafe. com. The Southern fusion menu includes dishes like roasted snapper with sweet potato and farro.
R L D $$
Turu’s by Timber Pizza
4238 Wilson Blvd. (Ballston Quarter), timber pizza.com. Neapolitan(ish)-style pizzas fresh from a wood-fired oven. L D V $$
Uncle Julio’s Rio Grande Café
4301 N. Fairfax Drive, 703-528-3131, unclejulios. com. Tex-Mex highlights include mesquite-grilled fajitas, tacos and margaritas. b R L D $$$
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 $$
Weenie Beenie
2680 Shirlington Road, 703-671-6661, weenie beenie.net. The hot dog stand founded in 1954 is still serving half smokes, bologna-and-egg sandwiches and pancakes. B L D $
Westover Market & Beer Garden« 5863 N. Washington Blvd., 703-536-5040, westo vermarketbeergarden.com. A local hive for burgers and draft microbrews. The adjoining market’s “Great Wall of Beer” stocks more than 1,000 domestic, imported and craft beers in bottles and cans. b L D A $$
Which Wich
4300 Wilson Blvd., 703-566-0058, whichwich.com. A seemingly endless menu of sandwiches and wraps with more than 60 toppings. b B L D V $$
Wild Tiger BBQ«
1201 S. Joyce St. (Westpost), wildtigerbbq.com. The pop-up concept by chefs Kevin Tien and Scott Chung features barbecue with an Asian flavor. Shin-shamen-rubbed proteins like pulled pork, ribs and brisket are served with kimchi pickles and your choice of five house-made sauces. L D $$
William Jeffrey’s Tavern 2301 Columbia Pike, 703-746-6333, william jeffreystavern.com. Brought to you by the owners of Dogwood Tavern, this pub on the Pike features Prohibition-era wall murals and mixes a mean martini. b R L D A G V $$
Wilson Hardware Kitchen & Bar 2915 Wilson Boulevard, 703-527-4200, wilson hardwareva.com. Serves creative cocktails, boozy slushies and local craft beers, plus small plates, burgers and entrées like steak frites and duck
confit. In nice weather, head to the roof deck. b R L D A G V $$$
World of Beer
4300 Wilson Blvd., 703-576-0395, worldofbeer. com. The beer emporium features 40 taps and a rotating roster of hundreds of brews to go with your German soft pretzel, parmesan truffle fries or pimento cheeseburger. L D V $$
Yayla Bistro
2201 N. Westmoreland St., 703-533-5600, yayla bistro.com. A cozy little spot for Turkish small plates, flatbreads and seafood. Pita wraps available for lunch only. b L D $$
Yume Sushi
2121 N. Westmoreland St., 703-269-5064, yume sushiva.com. East Falls Church has a destination for sushi, omakase (chef’s tasting menu) and a sake bar with craft cocktails. L D V G $$$
Zofia’s Kitchen
4238 Wilson Blvd. (Ballston Quarter), 703-5506220, zofiaskitchen.com. Chef Ed Hardy’s pierogi operation stuffs the Polish dumplings with all kinds of fillers—beef brisket, bratwurst, beets, crab Rangoon, “loaded baked potato” or smoked whitefish with green apple, to name a few. L D V $
2941 Restaurant
2941 Fairview Park Drive, 703-270-1500, 2941. com. French chef Bertrand Chemel’s unlikely sanctuary in a suburban office building offers beautifully composed seasonal dishes and expert wine pairings in an artful setting. L D V $$$
Abay Market Ethiopian Food
3811-A S. George Mason Drive, 703-820-7589, abaymarketethiopian.com. The seasoned grassfed raw beef dish kitfo is the specialty at this friendly, six-table Ethiopian café. L D $$
Al Jazeera
3813-D S. George Mason Drive, 703-379-2733. The top seller at this Yemeni cafe is oven-roasted lamb with yellow rice. L D $$
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 $$$
Anthony’s Restaurant
3000 Annandale Road, 703-532-0100, www.an thonysrestaurantva.com. The family-owned Greek and Italian diner serves standbys like spaghetti, pizza, gyros and subs, plus breakfast on weekends. R L D V $$
B Side
8298 Glass Alley (Mosaic District), 703-676-3550, bsidecuts.com. Nathan Anda’s charcuterie steals the show at this cozy bar adjoining Red Apron Butcher. The cocktails rock, too. L D $$
Badd Pizza
346 W. Broad St., 703-237-2233, baddpizza.com. At Joel Salamone’s pizzeria, order a Buffalo-style “cup-and-char” pepperoni pie (so named because the pepperoni slices curl into cups with crispy edges) and a baddbeer IPA, locally brewed by Lost Rhino Brewing Co. L D $$
Bakeshop
100 E. Fairfax St., 703-533-0002, bakeshopva.com. See Arlington listing. B V $
Balqees Restaurant
5820 Seminary Road, 703-379-0188. Order Lebanese and Yemeni dishes like lamb in saffron rice, saltah (a vegetarian stew) and saffron cake topped with rose petals and crème anglaise. b L D V $$
Bamian
5634 Leesburg Pike, 703-820-7880, bamianrest aurant.com. Try Afghan specialties like palau (seasoned lamb with saffron rice) and aushak (scallion dumpling topped with yogurt, meat sauce and mint). L D V $$
Bartaco
2920 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 571-549-8226, bartaco.com. See Arlington listing. L D V A $$
Caboose Commons
2918 Eskridge Road (Mosaic District), 703-6638833, caboosebrewing.com. The microbrewery that started along the W&OD Trail in Vienna has a second location serving house brews and creative eats, including some plant-based options. b L D V A $$
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 $$
Celebrity Delly
7263-A Arlington Blvd., 703-573-9002, celebrity deliva.com. Matzo-ball soup, Reubens and tuna melts satisfy at this New York-style deli founded in 1975. Brunch served all day Saturday and Sunday. B L D G V $
Clare & Don’s Beach Shack«
130 N. Washington St., 703-532-9283, clareand dons.com. Go coastal with fish tacos, coconut chicken or one of the many meatless options, and maybe catch some live outdoor music. Closed Mondays. b L D A G V $$
DC Steakholders
6641 Arlington Blvd., 703-534-4200, dcsteakhold ers.com. The cheesesteak truck has a storefront in the former Frozen Dairy Bar space, where proprietors Usman Bhatti and Lilly Kaur are carrying forth FDB’s nearly 70-year frozen custard recipe. L D $$
District Dumplings
2985 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 703-884-7080, districtdumplingsfairfax.com. Asian-style dumplings, sandwiches and wraps. L D $$
District Taco«
5275-C Leesburg Pike, 571-699-0660, district taco.com. See Arlington listing. B L D G V $
Dogfish Head Alehouse
6220 Leesburg Pike, 703-534-3342, dogfishale house.com. Microbrews, burgers, sandwiches, salads and wood-grilled pizzas. L D G V $$
Dogwood Tavern
132 W. Broad St., 703-237-8333, dogwoodtav ern.com. The menu has something for everyone, from ancient grain Buddha bowls to jambalaya, burgers and coconut-curry salmon.
b R L D A V $$
Dominion Wine and 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. b R L D V $$
Duangrat’s
5878 Leesburg Pike, 703-820-5775, duangrats.com. Waitresses in traditional silk dresses glide through the dining room, bearing fragrant noodles and grilled meats, in one of the D.C. area’s most esteemed destinations for Thai cuisine. b R L D V $$
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 $$
Elevation Burger
442 S. Washington St., 703-237-4343, elevation burger.com. See Arlington listing. b L D V $
El Tio Tex-Mex Grill
7630 Lee Highway, 703-204-0233, eltiogrill.com.
A family-friendly spot for fajitas, enchiladas, combo plates and margaritas. b L D $$
Fava Pot« 7393 Lee Highway, 703-204-0609, favapot.com. Visit Dina Daniel’s restaurant, food truck and catering operation for Egyptian fare ranging from breakfast pudding with raisins, pistachios and coconut, to lamb shanks with okra. And oh the bread!
B L D G V $$
First Watch
5880 Leesburg Pike, 571-977-1096, firstwatch. com. Visit this breakfast and lunch café for eggs Benedict, lemon-ricotta pancakes, housemade granola, power bowls, avocado toast, juice bar tonics and brunchy cocktails. b B R L V $$
Four Sisters Restaurant 8190 Strawberry Lane, 703-539-8566, foursisters restaurant.com. Mainstays include clay pot fish, grilled meats, lettuce wraps and pho. b L D V $$
Haandi Indian Cuisine« 1222 W. Broad St., 703-533-3501, haandi.com. The perfumed kabobs, curries and biryani incorporate northern and southern Indian flavors. L D V G $$
Hong Kong Palace
6387 Seven Corners Center, 703-532-0940, hong kongpalacedelivery.com. The kitchen caters to both ex-pat and American tastes with an enormous menu of options. L D $$
Hong Kong Pearl Seafood Restaurant 6286 Arlington Blvd., 703-237-1388. Two words: dim sum. L D A V $$
Huong Viet 6785 Wilson Blvd., 703-538-7110, huong-viet. com. Spring rolls, roasted quail and shaky beef
are faves at this cash-only Eden Center eatery. L D G V $$
Ireland’s Four Provinces
105 W. Broad St., 703-534-8999, 4psva.com. The family-friendly tavern in the heart of Falls Church City serves pub food and Irish specialties. b B R L D $$
The Johnsons Café
301 S. Washington St., 703-534-3838, thejohnsons cafe.com. The global cuisine includes samosas, falafel, Moroccan lamb and a host of traditional Indian dishes, plus breakfast sandwiches and French toast. Closed Tuesdays. B L D V $$
Jinya Ramen Bar
2911 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 703-9927705, jinya-ramenbar.com. Embellish your tonkotsu or umami-miso broth with more than a dozen toppings and add-ins. b L D A V $$
JV’s Restaurant
6666 Arlington Blvd., 703-241-9504, jvsrestaurant. com. A dive bar (the best kind) known for live music, cold beer and home-cooked meatloaf, lasagna and chili. L D A V $$
Koi Koi Sushi & Roll
450 W. Broad St., 703-237-0101, koikoiva.com. The sushi is fresh and the vibe is fun. b L D $$
Le Pain Quotidien
8296 Glass Alley (Mosaic District), 703-4629322, lepainquotidien.com. See Arlington listing. B L D V $$
Liberty Barbecue«
370 W. Broad St., 703-237-8227, libertyfallschurch. com. This tasty venture by The Liberty Tavern Group serves smoked meats, fried chicken and all the accompaniments. Order a Grand Slam (four meats, four sides) and feed the whole fam. R L D $$
Little Saigon Restaurant
6218-B Wilson Blvd., 703-536-2633. Authentic Vietnamese in a no-frills setting. b L D $$
Loving Hut Vegan Cuisine
2842 Rogers Drive, 703-942-5622; lovinghut fallschurch.com. The Vietnamese-inspired vegan eatery offers menu items like rice vermicelli with barbecued soy protein and claypot rice with vegan “ham.” L D G V $$
MacMillan Whisky Room
2920 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 240-994-3905, themacmillan.com. More than 200 kinds of spirits are offered in tasting flights and composed cocktails. The food menu includes U.K. and American pub standards. b R L D $$
Mark’s Duck House
6184-A Arlington Blvd., 703-532-2125. Though named for its specialty—Peking duck—it offers plenty of other tantalizing options, too, such as short ribs, roasted pork and dim sum. R L D A V $$
Meaza Restaurant
5700 Columbia Pike, 703-820-2870, meazaethio piancuisine.com. Well-seasoned legumes and marinated beef are signatures in this vivid Ethiopian banquet hall. b L D G V $$
Mike’s Deli at Lazy Sundae
112 N. West St., 703-532-5299, mikesdeliatlazy sundae.com. Fill your belly with homemade corned beef, cheesesteaks, breakfast and scratch-made soups. Save room for ice cream! b B L D V $
Miu Kee
6653 Arlington Blvd., 703-237-8884. Open late,
this strip-mall hideaway offers Cantonese, Sichuan and Hunan dishes. L D A $$
Moby Dick House of Kabob
444 W. Broad St., 703-992-7500, mobyskabob.com. See Arlington listing. L D $$
Mom & Pop
2909 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 703-9920050, dolcezzagelato.com. The little glass cafe serves light fare, snacks, gelato, coffee, beer and wine. b B R L D A $$
Nhu Lan Sandwich
6763 Wilson Blvd., 703-532-9009, nhulansandwich. com. This tiny Vietnamese deli at Eden Center is a favorite for banh mi sandwiches. L D V $
Northside Social Falls Church« 205 Park Ave., 703-992-8650, northsidesocial va.com/falls-church. Come by in the morning for a breakfast sandwich and a latte. Return in the evening for a glass of wine and a plate of charcuterie, or a wood-fired pizza. b B L D V $$
Oath Pizza
2920 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 703-688-6284, oathpizza.com. The dough here is grilled and seared in avocado oil (for a crispy texture) and the toppings are certified humane. L D G V $$
Open Road
8100 Lee Highway, 571-395-4400, openroadmerri field.com. See Arlington listing. b R L D $$
The Original Pancake House
7395-M Lee Highway, 703-698-6292, ophrestau rants.com. Satisfy your breakfast cravings with pancakes, crepes, waffles, French toast and more. B R G V $
Our Mom Eugenia
2985 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 434-339-4019, ourmomeugenia.com. Beloved for its real-deal Greek fare, from saganaki to souvlaki, the critically acclaimed family business now has a sister restaurant in the Mosaic District. b L D $$
Padaek
6395 Seven Corners Center, 703-533-9480, padaekdc.com. Chef Seng Luangrath’s celebrated Falls Church eatery, hidden in a strip mall, offers both Thai and Laotian cuisine. L D G V $$
Panjshir Restaurant
114 E. Fairfax St., 703-536-4566, panjshirrestau rant.com. Carnivores go for the kabobs, but the vegetarian chalows elevate pumpkin, eggplant and spinach to new levels. b L D V $$
Parc de Ville
8926 Glass Alley (Mosaic District), 703-663-8931, parcdeville.com. Find French fare such as omelets, escargots, paté, mussels, duck confit, steak frites and boudin blanc at this spacious Parisian-style brasserie. R D $$$
Peking Gourmet Inn
6029 Leesburg Pike, 703-671-8088, pekinggour met.com. At this James Beard Award semifinalist for “Outstanding Service,” it’s all about the crispy Peking duck. L D G V $$
Plaka Grill
1216 W. Broad St., 703-639-0161, plakagrill.com. Super satisfying Greek eats—dolmas, souvlaki, moussaka, spanakopita. L D V $$
Pho 88
232 W. Broad St., 703-533-8233, pho88va.com. Vietnamese pho is the main attraction, but the menu also includes noodle and rice dishes. Closed Tuesdays. L D $$
Pizzeria Orso
400 S. Maple Ave., 703-226-3460, pizzeriaorso. com. Neapolitan pies and tempting small plates, such as arancini with chorizo and Brussels chips with shaved grana. b L D G V $$
Preservation Biscuit
102 E. Fairfax St., 571-378-1757, preservation biscuit.com. Order the signature carb with a sampler of house-made jams, or as a sandwich, with fillers ranging from fried chicken, hot honey and candied bacon to guacamole and egg with lemon aioli. L D V $
Raaga Restaurant
5872 Leesburg Pike, 703-998-7000, raagarestau rant.com. Chicken tikka, lamb rogan josh and cardamom-infused desserts. b L D G V $$
Rare Bird Coffee Roasters
230 W. Broad St., 571-314-1711, rarebirdcoffee. com. Lara Berenji and Bryan Becker’s charming Little City café roasts its own beans and recently expanded its space. L D $
Red Apron Butcher
8298 Glass Alley (Mosaic District), 703-676-3550, redapronbutchery.com. The premium butcher shop and deli sells hot dogs, burgers, charcuterie, prime steaks and sandwiches. L D V $$
Rice Paper/Taste of Vietnam
6775 Wilson Blvd., 703-538-3888, ricepapertasteofvietnam.com. Try a combo platter of pork, seafood and ground beef with rice-paper wraps at this Eden Center favorite. L D G V $$
Settle Down Easy Brewing
2822 Fallfax Drive, 703-573-2011, settledowneasy brewing.com. The rotating beer list at this nanobrewing operation is always fresh. Neighboring El Tio Tex-Mex Grill provides a taco stand and other food choices. Closed Mondays. b 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 $$
Silver Diner «
8150 Porter Road, 703-204-0812, silverdiner.com. See Arlington listing. B R L D A G V $$
Sisters Thai
2985 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 703-280-0429, sistersthai.com. The Thai restaurant has a vibe that feels like you’re dining in your cool friend’s shabbychic living room. L D $$
Solace Outpost
444 W. Broad St., 571-378-1469, solaceoutpost. com. Filling the former Mad Fox space, this Little City microbrewery serves house-brewed suds, plus fried chicken, five kinds of fries and woodfired pizza. D A V $$
Spacebar
709 W. Broad St., 703-992-0777, spcbr.com. The little bar offers 24 craft beers on tap and 18 variations on the grilled cheese sandwich. D A V $$
Sweetgreen«
2905 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 703-9927892, sweetgreen.com. See Arlington listing. b L D G V $
Sweetwater Tavern
3066 Gatehouse Plaza, 703-645-8100, great americanrestaurants.com. A modern alehouse serving seafood, chicken, ribs, microbrews and growlers to go. L D G $$$
Taco Bamba
2190 Pimmit Drive, 703-639-0505, tacobambarest aurant.com. Taco choices range from traditional carne asada to the “Iron Mike,” a vegan rendition stuffed with roasted cauliflower, salsa macha and mole verde. B L D $
Takumi Sushi
310-B S. Washington St., 703-241-1128, takumiva. com. The sushi and sashimi here go beyond basic. Think tuna nigiri with Italian black truffle, or salmon with mango purée. Closed Sundays and Mondays. L D V $$
Ted’s Bulletin
2911 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 571-830-6680, tedsbulletinmerrifield.com. See Arlington listing. B R L D $$
Thompson Italian« 124 N. Washington St., 703-269-0893, thompson italian.com. Gabe and Katherine Thompson’s celebrated kitchen turns out house-made pastas, roasted chicken, take-home supper trays and some of the best desserts around. b D $$$
Trio Grill
8100 Lee Highway, 703-992-9200, triomerrifield. com. Treat yourself to steaks, chops, raw bar, craft cocktails and cigars. The patio opens daily at 4 p.m. for happy hour. b D $$$
True Food Kitchen
2910 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 571-3261616, truefoodkitchen.com. See Arlington listing. b R L D $$$
Uncle Liu’s Hotpot
2972 Gallows Road, 703-560-6868, uncleliushot pot.com. Customers do the cooking in this eatery inspired by the ubiquitous hot pots of China’s Sichuan province. L D V $$
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. R L D G V $$$
Amoo’s Restaurant
6271 Old Dominion Drive, 703-448-8500, amoos restaurant.com. The flavorful kabobs and stews are crowd pleasers at this hospitable Persian establishment. b L D G V $$
Aracosia
1381 Beverly Road, 703-269-3820, aracosiamclean. com. Score a table under strings of white lights on the covered patio and order savory Afghan specialties such as braised lamb shank and baadenjaan chalou (roasted eggplant with saffron rice). b L D V $$
Asian Origin
1753 S. Pinnacle Drive, 703-448-9988, asianorigin va.com. Liu Chaosheng’s restaurant hits all the standards (kung pao chicken, beef with broccoli) plus twists like pumpkin with steamed pork. L D V $$
Assaggi Osteria & Pizzeria
6641 Old Dominion Drive, 703-918-0080, assaggi osteria.com. Enjoy a date night over plates of orecchiette with artichoke and veal paillard. The adjoining pizzeria serves wood-fired pies. b L D G V $$$
Badd Pizza
6263 Old Dominion Drive, 703-356-2233, badd pizza.com. See Falls Church listing. L D $$
Café Oggi
6671 Old Dominion Drive, 703-442-7360, cafeoggi. com. Choose among classic Italian dishes such as mozzarella caprese, beef carpaccio, spaghetti with clams and tiramisu. b L D G V $$$
Café Tatti French Bistro
6627 Old Dominion Drive, 703-790-5164, cafetatti. com. Open since 1981, the kitchen whips up classic French and continental fare. Closed Sundays. L D G V $$$
Capri Ristorante Italiano
6825-K Redmond Drive, 703-288-4601, capri mcleanva.com. A chatty, family-friendly spot known for tried-and-true Italian dishes such as spaghetti carbonara and veal Marsala. b L D G V $$$
Eddie V’s Prime Seafood 7900 Tysons One Place, 703-442-4523, eddiev. com. Total steakhouse vibe, except with an emphasis on seafood. L D $$$$
El Tio Tex-Mex Grill 1433 Center St., 703-790-1910, eltiogrill.com. See Falls Church listing. L D $$
Esaan Tumbar«
1307 Old Chain Bridge Road, 703-288-3901, esaanmclean.com. This tiny eatery specializes in northern Thai dishes—papaya salad, larb, nam tok. A good bet for those who like heat. L D $$
Fahrenheit Asian 1313 Dolley Madison Blvd., 703-646-8968, fahren heitasian.com. A no-frills destination for Sichuan spicy noodles, dumplings, mapo tofu and other Asian comfort foods. L D V $$
Fogo de Chao
1775 Tysons Blvd., 703-556-0200, fogodechao. com. The upscale chain showcases the Brazilian tradition of churrasco—the art of roasting meats over an open fire. R L D $$$
Founding Farmers 1800 Tysons Blvd., wearefoundingfarmers.com. The farm-to-table restaurant features Virginiasourced dishes and drinks. B R L D $$$
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 $$
Ichiban Sushi
6821-A Old Dominion Drive, 703-48-9117, ichiban sushimclean.com. A neighborhood go-to for sushi, udon, tempura and teriyaki. Closed Sundays. L D $$
J. Gilbert’s« 6930 Old Dominion Drive, 703-893-1034, jgilberts. com. Everything you’d expect in a steakhouse and lots of it—prime cuts of beef, lobster, wedge salad, steakcut fries and cheesecake. R L D G V $$$
Kazan Restaurant
6813 Redmond Drive, 703-734-1960, kazanrestau rant.com. Zeynel Uzun’s white-tablecloth restaurant, a fixture since 1980, is a nice spot for kebabs, baklava and Turkish coffee. L D V $$
Lebanese Taverna 1840 International Drive, 703-847-5244, lebanesetaverna.com. See Arlington listing. b L D G V $$
Lost Dog Café
1690-A Anderson Road, 703-356-5678, lostdogcafe. com. See Arlington listing. L D $$
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 $$
McLean Family Restaurant 1321 Chain Bridge Road, 703-356-9883, themclean familyrestaurant.com. Pancakes, gyros and big plates of lasagna hit the spot. Breakfast served until 3 p.m. daily. B L D V $$
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 $$
Moby Dick House of Kabob
6854 Old Dominion Drive, 703-448-8448; 1500 Cornerside Blvd., 703-734-7000; mobyskabob.com. See Arlington listing. L D $$
Mylo’s Grill
6238 Old Dominion Drive, 703-533-5880, mylos grill.com. Enjoy spanakopita, souvlaki and American classics. Friday is prime-rib night. b B L D $$
Pasa-Thai Restaurant
1315 Old Chain Bridge Road, 703-442-0090, pasa thairestaurant.com. Go for a classic Bangkok curry, or a chef’s special such as spicy fried rockfish with chili-basil-garlic sauce. b L D $$
Patsy’s American 8051 Leesburg Pike (Tysons), 703-552-5100, patsysamerican.com. Named for Great American Restaurants matriarch Patsy Norton, it serves greatest-hit dishes from other GAR restaurants in a space resembling a vintage railway station. b R L D A G V $$
Pulcinella
6852 Old Dominion Drive, 703-893-7777, pulcinella restaurant.com. A stop for classic spaghetti and meatballs, linguine and clams and wood-fired pizza since 1985. L D $$
Randy’s Prime Seafood & Steaks 8051 Leesburg Pike (Tysons), 703-552-5110, randysprime.com. Randy’s (named for Great American Restaurants co-founder Randy Norton) serves prime cuts, duck-fat fries, seafood towers and other steakhouse standards. L D G $$$$
Rocco’s Italian
1357 Chain Bridge Road, 703-821-3736, roccos italian.com. The Juliano family makes everything in-house from family recipes. b L D G $$
Roots Provisions & Grocery
8100 Old Dominion Drive, 703-712-7850, roots provisions.com. Part café and part gourmet market, this McLean storefront has fresh sandwiches, smoothies, acai bowls, salads and coffee drinks, plus pantry staples, local produce, organic dairy products and grab-and-go snacks. B L G V $
Silver Diner« 8101 Fletcher St., 703-821-5666, silverdiner.com. See Arlington listing. B R L D A G V $$
Simply Fresh
6811 Elm St., 703-821-1869, simplyfreshva. com. A local favorite for pulled pork, chicken and brisket. Plus Greek diner fare and breakfast. b B L D G V $
Tachibana
6715 Lowell Ave., 703-847-1771, tachibana.us. Sushi aside, the chef’s specials here include starters such as clam miso soup, monkfish paté and savory egg custard. L D $$
We all know that buying local produce helps reduce your carbon footprint and increases your chances of finding the freshest fruits and veggies. Stem & Thistle owner Brooke Gagnier points out that the same principle applies to flowers.
“It just makes such a huge difference to have local flowers—they are literally harvested the day before you purchase them,” says the Arlington-based floral designer. “The color is amazing, the fragrance is incredible, and they last a long time.”
Gagnier says pandemic downtime nudged her to seek sources closer to home for the blooms in her bouquets. She eventually started working with a new Northern Virginiabased group called the Old Dominion Flower Cooperative. Most of the co-op’s farms are women-owned and incorporate sustainable practices.
“It’s nice because they’re really making it more convenient for us so we can source locally,” says the former middle-school English teacher, who finds inspiration equally through architecture magazines and in the streets and trails surrounding her home studio.
“I am a runner, and I have a lot of time on my runs to be inspired by what I see, whether
it’s on footpaths or running around Arlington,” she says.
Gagnier arranges flowers for intimate weddings, small gatherings and special occasions with an aesthetic that skews “very textural, kind of organic in style, and kind of wild. More freeflowing and natural.”
She generally gravitates toward a more muted color palette, but counts colorful cosmos among her favorite blossoms—along with hellebores, garden roses and, you guessed it, thistles.
Her larger arrangements start at $120 including delivery, but she says her smallest, which she calls Sweet Jars of Joy ($35, with a minimum order of three jars), have been hugely popular of late.
“I’ve had a lot of calls or requests for those, because it’s just a small something they can send with a note like: I’m thinking of you; I’m sorry for your loss; I can’t wait to get together with you again or hug you again. It’s been a lot of that,” she says. “It’s like the next best thing when you can’t hug somebody or really spend time with somebody.” stemandthistlefloral.com
Nicole Fingers started out on a different career track, but couldn’t ignore the tug of her inner artist whispering that her heart just wasn’t in electrical engineering. She began to dabble in designing invitations, and in 2002 opened a brick-and-mortar shop in Lyon Park appropriately dubbed Fingers in Ink, which specializes in fine stationery.
“I did a few friends’ invitations,” she says of her early days. “And then when it was time for me to get married, I did my own invitations, and everything came together. It was like, This is what I need to do.”
While artistry is a big part of what drew her to the business, she also loves meeting people during the happiest moments of their lives. She’s seen her most devoted clients through weddings, home purchases, birth or adoption announcements and graduation parties.
“I call those the Fingers in Ink Lifers,” says Fingers, who grew up in Oxon Hill, Maryland. “I’ve seen them through everything. One client’s daughter turned 16 last November. I’ve done all her invitations since she turned 1. It’s just a great progression to see her turn into such a delightful young lady.”
Social invitation suites, which include the invitation and outer envelope with return address, start at $3.95 each. Wedding invitation suites start at $9.25 each and include the invitation, outer envelope with return address, and reply card with envelope. Prices can go up from there based on paper quality, printing method and embellishments.
Fingers, who lives about a mile from her shop, says one big misconception about her craft is that anyone with a home printer can do it. Clients sometimes want a certain pattern or color incorporated, and there’s a lot of math involved—for instance “when you’re trying to get five invitations on a 20-by-24 sheet of paper.” Plus, not everyone is born with an artistic eye.
She jokes that she wears black every day so that her outfits don’t interfere with the vivid hues in her designs.
“I love to work with color and patterns and textures and layers,” she says. “I know my clients don’t always have that aesthetic. I often infuse a little bit of me in everything I do so that you can say, ‘Oh, Nicole definitely designed that.’ ” fingersinink.com
John Robinson Jr. anchored his neighborhood and brought people together. Now, so will the public square that bears his name.
CLARK REMEMBERS John Robinson Jr. as a man of action.
She was a third-grader at Drew Elementary School the day Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968. Everyone was crying, she says, but Robinson was already organizing.
Soon after, Robinson went into D.C. to march in support of making King’s birthday a national holiday. Clark joined him. “We skipped school and went down with a group and marched [at] the monuments,” she remembers.
For decades “the Mayor of Green Valley”—as Robinson was known—was a constant presence in his Arlington neighborhood. He published a community newsletter, fought against racial discrimination and opened a community center named for King. He organized food and clothing drives, advocated for fair housing, worked with law enforcement to tackle the area’s drug
problem and mentored kids. In September, Arlington will unveil a new town square, bearing his name, at the intersection of South Kenmore Street and Shirlington Road.
Robinson was born in Green Valley in 1934. He attended segregated Arlington schools, went to Howard University and joined the Army. After he left the military, he returned home, became a civic activist and started publishing Green Valley News, a newsletter that circulated for more than 40 years.
“I was one of the youths who would... distribute it,” says Clark, 62. “He paid us. We sold it for 10 cents and we got to keep 5 cents for every newsletter sold.”
Robinson always had time for kids, says Clark, now president of the Green Valley Civic Association. “Just watching how he operated and engaged—he always encouraged us to be positive and do the right thing.”
After Robinson’s death in 2010 at the age of 75, Clark inherited the newsletter archives dating back to the early 1960s. She has since donated a portion to the Arlington Public Library.
The public gathering space that will honor Robinson’s legacy was originally planned as Nauck Town Square, until the county board in November approved a name change more consistent with the neighborhood’s identity. In 2019, the civic association that Clark heads voted to shed the name Nauck (a white developer who once built homes in the area) in favor of Green Valley, the name by which the community was known when it was first settled by free Blacks prior to the Civil War.
Designed by Oakland, Californiabased urban landscape designer Walter Hood, John Robinson Jr. Town Square will feature walkways, plantings and trees, public art and a stage for performances. It will occupy the block that once held Robinson’s office and the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center, which was destroyed in a 2005 fire. (The site also sits across the street from the Green Valley Pharmacy, which fellow community leader Leonard “Doc” Muse operated for 64 years before his death in 2017 at the age of 94.)
Clark remembers her mentor as an “icon.”
“John would give you the shirt off his back if he had to,” she says. “He was just that type of person who took care of whoever he could. That was his mission in life.” ■
People refer to Bob Adamson as “Backflip Bob” — not only can he literally do a backflip but also because he goes above and beyond for his clients. As a graduate of the University of Virginia, an Arlington resident, and former PTA President at Nottingham ES, Bob is very active in the local community and has represented more than 1,000 clients during his real estate career. At McEnearney, our Associates are more than your typical real estate agents, they live and work in your community and are the best experts to guide you on the ever-complicated real estate process. Grab a coffee with Bob to talk about your next journey home.