Arlington Magazine May/June 2024

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CON TENTS

■ FEATURES

FOOD & DRINK

90 Seasoned Pros

These beloved restaurants have been in business for decades. Meet the families and friends behind the menus.

104 Spirited Away

Today’s cocktails are an art form. Discover what’s tasty and trendy in the world of mixology.

112 Sun’s Out

’Tis the season for outdoor dining. Here are a few places to visit as spring gives way to summer.

COMMUNITY

130 Running on Empty

Arlington has a lot of empty office space. Experts say it’s a crisis in the making.

138 We Still Give an Iota

Its stage was a prize for local bands and touring musicians. Remembering Arlington’s IOTA Club & Cafe.

HOME & GARDEN

146 Bee Wild

Honeybees aren’t the pollinators we should be most worried about. Native bees need our protection.

152 Dream Kitchens

Thinking about remodeling? These culinary beauties will surely give you house envy.

ON THE COVER: Lebanese Taverna.

Photo by Deb Lindsey

Healthy starts with VHC Health.

The right choices can make a big difference in your health. VHC Health actively shares the latest news and information to better your and our community’s health and wellness at: vhchealth.org/healthnews

CON TENTS

■ DEPARTMENTS

10 Letter from the Publisher

12 Contributors

14 Around Town

Warmer weather brings street fairs, music festivals and the annual Armed Forces Cycling Classic.

24 Big Picture

Mad about mushrooms? This guy knows his fungi.

26 Familiar Faces

At 13, she founded a successful catering business in the Dominican Republic. Now she’s at the forefront of the DMV’s love affair with all things Caribbean.

30 My Life

At first, decorating her house felt trivial after her mom’s death. It wasn’t.

170 Great Spaces

Resurrecting the art of the sitting room.

172 Prime Numbers

The area’s most expensive home sales. Plus, real-estate trends by ZIP code.

176 Home Plate

Vietnamese veggie hot pots, a Korean coffee “omakase” and floral cupcakes that are almost too pretty to eat.

180 Places to Eat

Consult our dining guide for bitesize write-ups on more than 250 area restaurants and bars.

194 Shop Local

Showstopping custom furniture by an Arlington woodworker, and glass art pieces that shine with pride.

205 26

196 Driving Range

D.C.’s Anacostia River is making a dramatic comeback. Visit these sites while paddling its placid waters.

205 Get Away

Decamp to a retro hotel in Charlottesville, a botanical garden in Richmond or a charming bed-and-breakfast on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.

208 Back Story

Hats off to one of the better senior pranks in local high school lore.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTIONS

34 Faces

119 Ask the Senior Experts

160 Builders & Architects

COURTESY OF JAM SWEET BOUQUETS (CUPCAKES); REY LOPEZ (TOP RIGHT); PAMELA COWART-RICKMAN (INN)

“Sometimes

Cocktails & Dreams

NOT TO SOUND like a grandpa, but back in the day when I was a bartender, an off-the-wall cocktail was the Long Island Iced Tea. I still remember how we made it: 32-oz. schooner glass filled with ice; vodka and gin in one hand; rum and tequila in the other; pour for five seconds; top with sour mix, triple sec and Coke; drizzle Bacardi 151 on top; and garnish with a lemon. Enjoy your hangover.

Cocktails have evolved since I was a Neanderthal behind the bar. In “Spirited Away,” writer Jessica Strelitz chats with local bartenders and beverage directors to find out what’s hip, new and delicious in mixology. Today’s cocktails are part art, part science and 100% interesting with ingredients like cornflakes and house-made granola, dehydrated citrus wheels, edible flowers, prickly pear juice and fruit leather. We’ve come a long way from the LIIT.

Everyone knows the restaurant business is risky. According to CNBC, 60% of new restaurants fail in their first year and 80% close by their fifth anniversary. So how do some restaurants manage to stay in business for decades? To find out, dining critic David Hagedorn checked in with some of the old-guard establishments in our area that have been serving us for generations. And no single cuisine dominates the list. The group includes Lebanese, Chinese, Ethiopian, Turkish, Greek, Afghan, Vietnamese, diner fare and bar food.

I didn’t start playing music in front of live audiences until 2018, so I just missed the opportunity to perform at the iconic IOTA Club and Cafe. It closed in 2017. Although it was a small music venue, it played an outsize role in the local music scene and people were heartbroken when it shuttered. In honor of what would have been IOTA’s 30th anniversary, we decided to collect fond memories from some of the musicians who played there regularly.

I hope you enjoy our May/June Food & Drink issue and find it interesting and informative. The issue is packed with a lot of great stories, including a deep dive into commercial vacancy rates (and why you should care), how to support native bees, summer dining ideas and a roundup of killer home kitchens any chef would envy. In addition to our editorial content, please spend time with our advertising content and support our local businesses. Our advertisers, along with you (our readers), are the reason we’re able to thrive. Thank you.

As always, contact me anytime at greg. hamilton@arlingtonmagazine.com. Our editor can be reached at jenny.sullivan@arlington magazine.com. Cheers! letter from

Greg Hamilton Publisher & Owner

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Jessica Strelitz

LIVES IN: Falls Church, near Seven Corners

ORIGINALLY FROM: Maine

IN THIS ISSUE: Writes about the latest craft cocktail trends

FAVORITE FOODS: “Breakfast sandwiches with sausage and egg, Chinese pork buns, Vietnamese noodle dishes and spring rolls, crabcakes with no filler, and an unadorned lobster roll on a buttered, split-top bun. Does wine count?”

ADVENTURES IN DINING: “My favorites change a lot since we live in such an amazing area, but in my neighborhood I have had many memorable meals at 2941. My family also loves the new upstairs space at Duangrat’s—One Night in Bangkok.”

WON’T EAT: “Sesame seeds (I’m allergic)”

CURRENTLY WORKING ON: A story about Virginia wineries

CAREER MOVES: “I have been a freelance writer since college, but my full-time career is in the nonprofit world. I just left a leadership position at the Online News Association after 11 years and will start a new role in the education space this spring.”

ONLINE: jessicastrelitz.com; @jstrelitz on social media

Deb Lindsey

LIVES IN: Potomac, Maryland

ORIGINALLY FROM: Bethesda

IN THIS ISSUE: Shot the cover photo at Lebanese Taverna, plus other restaurants and bars for our story about craft cocktails trends

TRICKS OF THE TRADE: “People always ask about using fake ingredients [in food photography], but that’s not been my experience. Almost all the food I shoot is real and edible. I might use a little oil to shine up dull-looking meats. Swirling a straw in a beer or other carbonated beverage will bring the bubbles back to life when it’s gone flat.”

FAVORITE FOODS: “A great summer tomato, french fries, chewy chocolate chip cookies, TexMex, sushi”

LOCAL GO-TOS: Ruthie’s All-Day, Green Pig Bistro, Preservation Biscuit, Café Colline

WON’T EAT: “Raw oysters or olives”

CURRENTLY SHOOTING: “A story for The Washington Post about a small town grocery store and spring menu items for a few restaurants in town”

ONLINE: deblindseyphotography.com; @deblindsey on Instagram

PUBLISHER & OWNER

Greg Hamilton

EDITOR

Jenny Sullivan

ART DIRECTOR

Laura Goode

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Danny Ryan

DIGITAL EDITORS

Stephanie Kanowitz, Helen Partridge

WEB PRODUCER

Erin Roby

DINING CRITIC

David Hagedorn

COPY EDITORS

Sandy Fleishman, Barbara Ruben

CO-FOUNDER

Steve Hull

WRITERS

Cathy Alter, Annabel Joy, Christine Koubek

Flynn, Colleen Kennedy, Tamara Lytle, Nigel F. Maynard, Kim O’Connell, Jennifer

Shapira, Jessica Strelitz, Amy Brecount

White, Jeffrey Yeates

PHOTOGRAPHERS & ILLUSTRATORS

Stephanie Bragg, Skip Brown, Mauricio Castro, Jennifer Chase, Donn Dobkin, Nadia Domnina, Stacy Zarin Goldberg, Lisa Helfert, Hawkeye Johnson, Mike Landsman, Leading DC, Jess Lemon, Tony J. Lewis, Deb Lindsey, Rey Lopez, An-Phuong Ly, Nova Soul Imagery, Donna Owen, Philip Stevenson Photo, Greg Powers, Roxplosion, Suz Redfearn, Anthony Sankar, Hilary Schwab, Scott Suchman, Jonathan Timmes, Albert Ting, Joseph D. Tran, Elizabeth Vance, Michael Ventura, J. Michael Whalen, Samantha Joan White, Stephanie Williams

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Traci Ball, Kristin Murphy, Lori Reale

FINANCE & CIRCULATION MANAGER

The Faces of Arlington Real Estate

When you select Buck & Associates, you’re partnering with Arlington’s premier brokerage firm. With almost five decades in local real estate, we maintain our reputation of transactional excellence. Dependable agents delivering exceptional service.

Billy Buck Assoicate Broker

Lisa Daniels Operations/Marketing Manager

Gus Daniel Realtor

Bill Buck President & Chairman

Heidi Robbins Managing Broker

Carolyn Amesse Realtor

Sara Bordignon Realtor

Kelsey Crittenden Realtor

Donna Hamaker Realtor

Rick Holliday Realtor

Ricardo Iglesias Realtor

Emel Kaya Accountant

Dave Dinardo Realtor

Kathy Lash Asslociate Broker

Terry Hughes Realtor

Johnny Mendez Realtor

Martha Marquez Realtor

Future Team Mate?

AROUND TOWN

by Colleen Kennedy

FIND YOUR GROOVE

JUNE 8, 11 A.M.-8 P.M.

Tinner Hill Heritage Music Festival

This year’s festival lineup includes Gospel Music Hall of Famers the Blind Boys of Alabama; Grammy Lifetime Achievement winner George Porter Jr. and Runnin’ Pardners; D.C. jazz-funk stalwarts The Blackbyrds; Wammie award-winning go-go outfit JoGo Project; the East Coast party band See-I; and the all-women Afro-Brazilian percussion group Batalá Washington, among others. The 30th annual music event and fundraiser honors the civil rights legacy of Tinner Hill, home to the nation’s first rural branch of the NAACP. Enjoy a day of live tunes, craft beers, barbecue and other tasty options from Little City vendors. Kid-friendly activities will include face painting and puppy petting areas. Tickets $20-$40; $10 for students 12–22; free for children under 11. Cherry Hill Park, 312 Little Falls St., Falls Church, tinnerhill.org

MUSIC

MAY 3, 8 P.M.

Rumours: The Ultimate Fleetwood Mac Tribute

Capital One Hall

Taking its name from Fleetwood Mac’s magnum opus, this cover band re-creates all the glory and drama of the famed foursome with period costumes and accurate instrumentation. Expect classics such as “Dreams,” “The Chain” and “Go Your Own Way.” Tickets start at $34. 7750 Capital One Tower Road, Tysons, capitalonehall.com

MAY 3-4, 8 P.M.

Aruna Sairam featuring Rohan Krishnamurthy & Kamalakiran Vinjamuri

The Barns at Wolf Trap

An acclaimed vocalist performing in the South Indian classical Carnatic music tradition, Aruna Sairam will be joined by Rohan Krishnamurthy providing mridangam percussion and Kamalakiran Vinjamuri on violin. Tickets start at $42. 1635 Trap Road, Vienna, wolftrap.org

MAY 5, 7:30 P.M.

Madeleine Peyroux with Joy Clark

The Birchmere Chanteuse Madeleine Peyroux performs vintage jazz vocals that recall the best of Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald and Edith Piaf. Singer-songwriter Joy Clark, known for her joyful, jazzy songs, opens. $59.50. 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, birchmere.com

MAY 9, 7:30 P.M.

The String Queens

The Birchmere

This dynamic D.C.-based trio performs everything from Baroque ballads to JIM

HERRINGTON

The Grammy-winning Blind Boys of Alabama play Cherry Hill Park on June 8.

SEE STARS

JUNE 20, 8 P.M.

Wilco

Deemed “one of America’s most consistently interesting bands” by Rolling Stone, the Chicago group fronted by singersongwriter and guitarist Jeff Tweedy last year released its 13th rock/alt-country album, Cousin. $49 and up. Wolf Trap, Filene Center, 1551 Trap Road, Vienna, wolftrap.org

Billboard 100 hits on violin, viola and cello. $35. 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, birchmere.com

MAY 11, 8 P.M.

Indigo Girls With Fairfax Symphony

Capital One Hall

Amy Ray and Emily Saliers, the duo NPR’s Mountain Stage called “one of the finest folk duos of all time,” began collaborating with symphony orchestras more than a decade ago to produce lush orchestral arrangements of their most famous songs. Tickets start at $50. 7750 Capital One Tower Road, Tysons, capitalonehall.com

MAY 18, 7:30 P.M.

Concerto Celebration:

Bologne, Mendelssohn and Beethoven

National Chamber Ensemble

For its season finale, NCE presents a series of famous concertos in a chamber music setting. Enjoy works by Chevalier de Saint-Georges (Joseph Bologne), Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto in E Minor

(featuring NCE artistic director Leonid Sushansky on violin) and Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 5 (featuring pianist Carlos César Rodríguez). $40 ($20 for students). Marymount University, Ballston Center, 1000 N. Glebe Road, Arlington, nationalchamberensemble.org

MAY 24, 8 P.M.

Silvestre Dangond

Capital One Hall

Known for his high-octane performances, the Colombian singer brings his Latin Grammy Award-winning songs to Tysons, a stop on his ’Ta Malo tour. Tickets start at $62. 7750 Capital One Tower Road, Tysons, capitalonehall.com

JUNE 2, 5 P.M.

Misa á Buenos Aires with QuinTango

Arlington Chorale

The Arlington Chorale joins tango ensemble QuinTango to present Martin Palmeri’s mesmerizing masterpiece Misa á Buenos Aires (Misatango). QuinTango artists Joan Singer and Emmanuel Trifilio will also share a new composition created with

students from Performers With Purpose and Edu-Futuro, an organization that serves Latino immigrant families. $30; free for children 17 and younger with adult ticket purchase. Unitarian Universalist Church of Arlington, 4444 Arlington Blvd., Arlington, arlingtonchorale.org

JUNE 4-6, 8 P.M.

John Legend with the Wolf Trap Orchestra

Wolf Trap

The charismatic singer-songwriter and storyteller returns to Wolf Trap with a full orchestra, a band and backup singers for a “night of songs and stories.” Legend’s greatest hits include “Glory,” “Ordinary People” and “All of Me.” $55 and up. Filene Center, 1551 Trap Road, Vienna, wolftrap.org

JUNE 7, 8 P.M.

Natalia Jimenez

Capital One Hall

Grammy and Latin Grammy award winner Jimenez is celebrating 20 years of global recognition for her infectious blend of pop, rock, jazz and traditional Mexican music.

PETER CROSBY

June 4–6

John Legend with the Wolf Trap Orchestra

July 5

TLC En Vogue

Jody Watley

Patti LaBelle

Gladys Knight

June 8

Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue

Big Boi

Danielle Ponder

June 15

Wilco

June 20

June 22

Out & About Festival

Brittany Howard

Jenny Lewis | Lawrence

Kim Gordon | Tiny Habits | Quinn Christopherson Okan | Be Steadwell

July 10

Pilobolus re:CREATION

Trey Anastasio National Symphony Orchestra

June 25

Signature Theatre & Wolf Trap Present Broadway in the Park

June 29

Pat McGee Band emmet swimming Virginia Coalition

July 7

June 23

Ben Platt

July 13

Star Wars: A New Hope in Concert National Symphony Orchestra

Wolf Trap Opera La bohème National Symphony Orchestra

July 19

Daryl Hall

Elvis Costello & The Imposters with Charlie Sexton

July 25

...and many more!

GIRL POWER

MAY 17-19

Little Women

This stage adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s coming-of-age novel follows four sisters through sibling rivalries, love and loss, domestic life and dreams for the future in the aftermath of the Civil War. The family, including matriarch Marmee, is given the Broadway treatment in this delightful, touching musical. See website for show times. Tickets start at $63.50. Capital One Hall, 7750 Capital One Tower Road, Tysons, capitalonehall.com

Her Antología 20 Años Tour spans 12 countries and 68 performance venues, including this stop in Tysons. Tickets start at $58. 7750 Capital One Tower Road, Tysons, capitalonehall.com

JUNE 8-AUG. 2

Lubber Run Summer Concert Series

Lubber Run Amphitheater

Funk-soul powerhouse Joslyn & the Sweet Compression kicks off this season’s free concert series, which also brings performances by Swampdog, the Arlington Philharmonic, Soul in Motion and Latinjazz Rumba Club. Performances Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 11 a.m. Entrance at the corner of North Columbus Street and Second St. North, Arlington. For day of event info, call 703228-1850 or visit arlingtonarts.org

JUNE 8, 8 P.M.

Patti LaBelle and Gladys Knight

Wolf Trap

Bow down for two queens of R&B, known

for hits such as “Lady Marmalade,” “You Are My Friend,” “I Heard It Through the Grapevine,” and “Every Beat of My Heart.” Tickets start at $49. Filene Center, 1551 Trap Road, Vienna, wolftrap.org

JUNE 9, 8 P.M.

Gary Clark Jr.

Wolf Trap

The Grammy-winning singer-songwriter and virtuoso guitarist out of Austin, Texas, crosses a sea of genres—blues, rock, R&B, soul, country, hip-hop, jazz and African folk. His latest album, JPEG RAW, is “a personal call-to-action” amid the Black Lives Matter movement. $45 and up. Filene Center, 1551 Trap Road, Vienna, wolftrap.org

JUNE 15, 1-8:30 P.M.

Columbia Pike Blues Festival

Arlington Career Center

Headlining the 27th annual festival is acclaimed soul artist and Brooklyn native Bette Smith, whose much anticipated album Goodthing releases on May 3. Venture out for a day of live blues, jazz and

bluegrass music, plus kids’ activities, craft beer, wine and food from local vendors. Admission is free. 816 S. Walter Reed Drive, Arlington, columbia-pike.org

JUNE 22, 3 P.M.

Out & About Festival

Wolf Trap

Alabama Shakes lead singer and guitarist Brittany Howard headlines this second annual pride celebration. She’s joined by LGBTQIA+ artists and allies including alt-country musician Jenny Lewis; popsoul band Lawrence; punk goddess Kim Gordon of Sonic Youth; Tiny Habits; Quinn Christopherson; Okan; and Be Steadwell. Tickets start at $50. The Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods performance requires a separate ticket. Filene Center, 1551 Trap Road, Vienna, wolftrap.org

JUNE 24 & 25

The Wallflowers

The Birchmere

The Grammy-winning rock band fronted by Jakob Dylan is known for chart toppers

JOSH MURPHY

such as “6th Avenue Heartache,” “The Difference,” “One Headlight” and “Three Marlenas.” $75. 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, birchmere.com

ART

THROUGH MAY 25

Monica Jahan Bose: Climate Hope

Arlington Art Truck

Throughout the months of April and May, this Arlington Art Truck activation will encourage community members to write/draw a short poem, pledge, or illustration about climate change on a specially designed sari from the artist’s ancestral village in Bangladesh. The resulting textiles, spanning more than 70 feet as part of Jahan Bose’s “Storytelling with Saris” project, will be unveiled in Shirlington on May 2 during a 1 p.m. processional that begins at the

Shirlington Branch Library and continues across the Four Mile Run Bridge. An artist talk at 11 a.m. precedes the performance. Free. Follow @arttruckarlington on Instagram.

THROUGH MAY 26

Solace and Sisterhood

Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington Artists Lavett Ballard, Amber Robles-Gordon and Evita Tezeno tackle topics of identity, Black female beauty, spiritual discovery and Black women’s friendship in this threewoman show. Gallery hours noon-5 p.m., Wednesday-Sunday. Free. 3550 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, mocaarlington.org

THROUGH MAY 31

Together We Rise: United

Gallery Underground

This group show of artworks by veterans is organized in partnership with Uniting US, a nonprofit that empowers veterans, active duty military personnel and their families to find healing, wellness and

unity through art. Gallery hours 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday. Opening reception 5-7 p.m. May 3. 2100 Crystal Drive, Arlington, arlingtonartistsalliance.org/ gallery-underground

THROUGH AUG. 25

MoCA on the Move: Family Series

Metropolitan Park

Join the Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington (MoCA) on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for art-making activities, live music, food vendors and “artist spotlights” featuring local artists. The spring series continues through May 24, after which a summer series will pick up on June 16. Free. 13th Street South & South Eads Street, Arlington, mocaarlington.org

JUNE 4-8

Arlington Career Center Student Show

Gallery Underground Works by Arlington Career Center students

■ around town

will explore the concept of “space” in this mentored exhibition. Arlington Artists Alliance members will guide students through the process of producing a professional caliber show, and 30% of all proceeds will benefit the Career Center’s art department. Gallery hours 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday. Opening reception 5-7 p.m. June 7. Free. 2100 Crystal Drive, Arlington, arlingtonartistsalliance.org/ gallery-underground

JUNE 13-AUG. 29

MoCA on the Move: Happy Hour Series

Metropolitan Park

Want to get creative over crafty cocktails? Join MoCA Arlington on Thursdays from 5-7 p.m. for a summer happy hour series centering on social art-making activities. The June 21 event will also include a silent disco. Free. 13th St. S. & South Eads Street (Rain location is the MoCA Arlington Innovation Studio + Store, 525 14th St. S.), mocaarlington.org

SEASONAL

THROUGH MAY 31

National Bike Month in National Landing

National Landing

Celebrate National Bike Month with a series of events on wheels, including the National Garage Racing Championships (May 11), Bike to Work Day (May 17) and other cycling-themed meetups. Learn more about area bike trails, the benefits of cycling and how to get started. See website for dates, times, locations and event schedules. nationallanding.org

MAY 2, 3-7 P.M.

Mega Market Season Opener

Welburn Square

Ballston’s first Mega Market of the season kicks off with live music, a farmers market, and a beer and wine garden, and continues on the first Thursday of each month through early November. Admission is free. Drink tickets available for purchase (or free when you spend $10 or more with one of the market vendors). 901 N. Taylor St., Arlington, ballstonva.org/ ballston-farmers-market

MAY 11, 10 A.M.-3 P.M.

Falls Church Women’s History Walk

Cherry Hill Park & Mary Riley Styles Public Library

Honor the female pioneers, abolitionists, educators, entrepreneurs, politicians, historians, artists and activists whose civic engagement helped establish the City of Falls Church as a vibrant community. Grand Marshals selected for their contributions to The Little City will be recognized during a noon ceremony on the front porch of Cherry Hill Farmhouse. The honorees include World War II code breaker and Falls Church School Board member Betty Allen; arts and history volunteer Maureen Budetti; Falls Church City Council member Cindy Garner; Mary Gavin, the first woman to serve as the city’s chief of police; and Marian Selby, one of the first students to integrate Falls Church City Public Schools in 1961, and the first Black student to graduate from George Mason (now Meridian) High School in 1964. The self-guided walking tour will include 70 signs around Cherry Hill Park commemorating key community figures. Free. All events will take place in the areas around Cherry Hill Park (312 Park Ave.) and Mary Riley Styles Public Library (120 N. Virginia Ave.), Falls Church, sites.google. com/view/fc-womens-history-walk/home

MAY 12, 2-4 P.M.

Mother’s Day Tea Falls Church Community Center

Celebrate mom in high style with tea sandwiches, pastries, scones and assorted teas while a costumed interpreter imparts stories about motherhood in the mid-19th century. Hosted by the Friends of Cherry Hill Foundation. Reservations required. $48. 223 Little Falls St., Falls Church, vafallschurchweb.myvscloud.com

MAY 17-18

McLean Day

Lewinsville Park

This cherished annual event kicks off Friday with carnival rides from 2-10 p.m., followed by a full day of fun (11 a.m.–5 p.m.) on Saturday. Enjoy music, games, balloon animals, a petting zoo, food trucks and rides for all ages. Admission is free.

Ride tickets can be purchased online or on site. 1659 Chain Bridge Road, McLean, mcleancenter.org/events/mclean-day-2024

MAY 18, NOON-7 P.M.

Quarterfest Crawl

Ballston Quarter

Head to Ballston for an all-day event featuring live music and food/drink specials from more than 25 neighborhood bars and restaurants. Maps and schedules will be available on site. Admission is free. 4238 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, quarterfestballston.org

MAY 18, 11 A.M.–3 P.M.

Spring Fling

The Village at Shirlington

Sip and stroll while perusing this street fair and makers market with live music, local food and drinks, a kids’ zone and other fun activities. Free. 2700 S. Quincy St., Arlington, villageatshirlington.com

MAY 27, 9 A.M.–5 P.M.

Falls Church Memorial Day

Parade and Festival

Falls Church City Hall Grounds

Celebrate the unofficial beginning of summer during this 42nd annual event, which includes a commemorative ceremony, a free parade and fun run, local food vendors, crafters and children’s rides. Wristbands and tickets for rides and food will be available for purchase. 300 Park Ave., Falls Church, fallschurchva.gov/ memorialday

JUNE 1-2

The Armed Forces

Cycling Classic

Crystal City/Clarendon

Stretch those hamstrings, fill that water bottle and get ready to lap the competition in the region’s premier cycling event. On Saturday morning, early risers and enthusiastic cyclists of all abilities are invited to participate in the Challenge Ride. Subsequent events throughout the weekend include the Pro Cycling, Amateur Cycling and Kids’ Races, with proceeds benefiting TAPS (Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors), a nonprofit that supports families grieving for a military loved one. The standard registration fee for the Challenge Ride (open to all cyclists) is $105. Fees for the Pro/Am races range

MADE IN THE DMV

MAY 5, NOON-5 P.M.

Makers Market

Shop wares from more than 20 local creators and artists in this open-air pop-up market featuring live music and tasty bites from local restaurants. Admission is free. Westpost (Pentagon Row), 1201 S. Joyce St., Arlington, westpostva.com

from $40-$45. See website for race times, locations and qualification requirements, and to register. cyclingclassic.org

JUNE 29

Arlington Pride Festival

Long Bridge Park

Celebrate Pride Month with live entertainment, games and prizes, a DJ spinning tunes, food and beverages, local vendors, an LGBTQIA+ advocacy center and more. Free. 475 Long Bridge Drive, Arlington, arlvapride.com

PERFORMING ARTS

THROUGH JULY 7

Hair

Signature Theatre

Signature puts its own psychedelic spin on the groundbreaking rock musical about hippie counterculture, peace, love, freedom and rebellion during a time of war. Tickets start at $40. See website

for show times. 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington, sigtheatre.org

MAY 2-25

Homeless Garden

Avant Bard

Written by Matt Minnicino and directed by Kathleen Akerley, this D.C.-area premiere, a contemporary take on Chekhov’s The Cherry Orchard, explores the interconnection of environmental and class issues. Performances are Thursday-Saturday at 7:30 p.m., plus Saturday and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. $40. Discounts available for students, veterans and seniors. “Pay-whatyou can” prices for Saturday matinees. Gunston Arts Center, Theatre Two, 2700 S. Lang St., Arlington, avantbard.org

MAY 4, 7:30 P.M.

Varietopia with Paul F. Tompkins

The Birchmere Funnyman

Paul F. Tompkins revives his modern variety show with surprise guests performing stand-up, sketches, music and other live entertainment. $35. 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, birchmere.com

MAY 16-JUNE 9

The Bubbly Black Girl Sheds

Her Chameleon Skin

Creative Cauldron

The musical The New York Times called “flat-out fun” follows the effervescent Bubbly on her journey to self-acceptance as a Black woman from the 1960s to the 1990s, with a soundtrack that includes R&B, jazz, funk and gospel. See website for show times. $40-$50 (discounts starting at $25 for students). 410 S. Maple Ave., Falls Church, creativecauldron.org

MAY 21-JULY 7

Where the Mountain Meets the Sea

Signature Theatre

After the death of his estranged father, a son re-creates the cross-country trip his Haitian immigrant parents made from Miami to California—in reverse. Time and distance fade away as he learns about his parents’ youthful dreams and his father’s love of music, creating new, meaningful connections between father and son. Lyrical storytelling and folk music combine in this

COURTESY PHOTO

A Makers Market at Westpost

■ around town

poignant D.C.-area premiere. See website for show times. Tickets start at $40. 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington, sigtheatre.org

MAY 31-JUNE 9

Rapunzel

Encore Stage & Studio

On Rapunzel’s 18th birthday, a witch and her henchmen show up and whisk the innocent girl away to a tower deep in the forest. Can Rapunzel and her charming prince persevere over evil? Performances are Fridays at 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.; and Sundays at 3 p.m. $12-$15. Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre, 125 S. Old Glebe Road, Arlington, encorestage.org

JUNE 6-23

Postcards From Ihatov

1st Stage

Adapted and directed by Georgetown theater professor and playwright Natsu Onoda Power from the works of Japanese writer Kenji Miyazawa (known for the classic Night on the Galactic Railroad), this world premiere performance spins a spellbinding tale of friendship, imagination and self-discovery. See website for show times. $25-$55. 1524 Spring Hill Road, Tysons, 1ststage.org

JUNE 21-29

Mozart’s Così fan tutte

The Barns at Wolf Trap

The rapid-fire comedy of Mozart’s opera buffa is complicated by its sexist jokes (the title roughly translates as “women are all like that”). But the brilliance of the music, with its rich melodies and stunning arias, is never in doubt. See website for show times. $45 and up. 1635 Trap Road, Vienna, wolftrap.org

JUNE 27-JULY 7

Night of One Acts

The Arlington Players

Produced by the Arlington Players in partnership with Little Theater of Alexandria, this trio of new, one-act plays explores a range of human experiences. The Fengolonian Fiasco, by Vicki Riba Koestler, is a comedy about a middle-aged couple who attempt to dispose of a priceless artifact after accidentally stealing it from an auction house. North, by Bruce Bonafede, is a moving drama about a stubborn man grappling with dementia while caring for his sick wife. The Dollar Dictator, by Keely L. Herrick, is a dark comedy about retail

employees who plot to remove their toxic store manager. Performances ThursdaySaturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. $20-$30. Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre, 125 S. Old Glebe Road, Arlington, thearlingtonplayers.org

JUNE 29, 8 P.M.

Broadway in the Park

Wolf Trap

Signature Theatre and Wolf Trap join forces for this fourth annual revue featuring knockout performances by stars of the stage. Tickets start at $33. Filene Center, 1635 Trap Road, Vienna, wolftrap.org

BOOKS & AUTHORS

MAY 9, 7:15-9 P.M.

Shotgun Justice: A Crusader Against Crime and Corruption

Arlington Historical Society

When Crandal Mackey was elected commonwealth’s attorney in 1903, he launched a series of infamous raids on illegal bars, bordellos and casinos in the area, then mysteriously withdrew from public service in 1915. Local author Michael Lee Pope uncovers the little-known story of one man’s battle to rid Alexandria and Arlington of vice and violent crime. Free. Marymount University Reinsch Library Auditorium, 2807 N. Glebe Road, Arlington (virtual attendance also available via Zoom), arlingtonhistoricalsociety.org

MAY 14, 6:30-8 P.M.

Arlington Reads: Jesmyn Ward

Central Library

National Book Award fiction winner Jesmyn Ward (Salvage the Bones; Sing, Unburied, Sing) joins essayist Ralph Eubanks to discuss her newest novel, Let Us Descend, a reimagining of American slavery. Free (RSVP requested). This event will also be livestreamed and available as a recording for 30 days on YouTube; RSVP to receive the link. 1015 N. Quincy St., Arlington, library.arlingtonva.us

MAY 22, 6:30-8 P.M.

Uncertain: The Wisdom and Wonder of Being Unsure

Central Library

Author Maggie Jackson and Library

Director Diane Kresh will discuss Jackson’s new book, which argues that uncertainty is the mindset most needed in times of flux, and a remarkable antidote to the narrow-mindedness of our day. Free (RSVP requested). This event will also be livestreamed and available as a recording for 30 days on YouTube; RSVP to receive the link. 1015 N. Quincy St., Arlington, library.arlingtonva.us

JUNE 13, 7-8:30 P.M.

Window Seat to Arlington’s Riverfront

Arlington Historical Society

Roger A. Mola, a retired researcher with the Smithsonian’s Air & Space Magazine, will share bird’s-eye views and aerials of the Arlington riverfront in images spanning two centuries. Over time, the banks of the Potomac have been home to agricultural operations, army camps, an amusement park, aquatics and three airports. Free. Marymount University Reinsch Library

Auditorium, 2807 N. Glebe Road, Arlington (virtual attendance also available via Zoom), arlingtonhistoricalsociety.org

JUNE 13, 6:30-8 P.M.

Arlington Reads:

George M. Johnson

Central Library

Library Director Diane Kresh will engage author and LGBTQIA+ activist George M. Johnson in a conversation about his youngadult memoir, All Boys Aren’t Blue, a tale of the trials and triumphs of Black queer boys. Free (RSVP requested). This event will also be livestreamed and available as a recording for 30 days on YouTube; RSVP to receive the link. 1015 N. Quincy St., Arlington, library.arlingtonva.us

JUNE 17, 6:30-8 P.M.

Author Talk: Opal Lee and What It Means to Be Free

Shirlington Library

Librarian and educator Alice Faye Duncan will discuss her children’s book about Black activist Opal Lee and Lee’s vision of Juneteenth as a holiday. Free (RSVP requested). 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington, library.arlingtonva.us

Francesca Keith is your local next door

For Francesca Keith providing best-in-class service for her clients starts by having roots in the community. As an Arlingtonian for more than 25 years, Francesca knows the best place to pick up a peach pie or the hidden hiking trails or pickleball courts. It’s the little things that make Arlington so unique and it’s the reason she has a passion to help people buy and sell homes. At McEnearney, our associates are more than just agents, they are your trusted advisors, market experts, and locals next door.

Fun Guy

Fans call him the “mushroom man.” His weekly farmers market yield invariably sells out.

IAN TRIPLETT HAD no idea mushrooms were on the verge of stardom when he bought his first mycological grow kit in 2015. In fact, he didn’t even have a taste for fungi back then. He simply wanted to try his hand at cultivating something new and different alongside his family’s viticulture operation in Leesburg. After serving in the Marine Corps and earning a degree in economics from Longwood University, he had a day job in banking. But he missed getting his hands dirty.

“I grew up in agriculture. I’ve always liked to grow things,” says the owner of Three Cap Farms, a popular vendor at the Saturday morning EatLoco farmers market in National Landing. “I always had a little garden—even at university. In this case I just fell in love with the process.”

Little did Triplett know his umami-rich crops would become an “it” food, expanding beyond the produce aisle and finding their way into snack food seasonings, homeopathic remedies, biodegradable packaging, a 2019 Netflix documentary and even home décor. In 2022, The New York Times declared mushrooms the “ingredient of the year.”

As demand for the product, uh, mushroomed, so did Triplett’s business. “I have increased production by 100% every year since I started Three Cap Farms in 2020,” he says. “Now I’m at the point where that’s not so easy.”

Today, he harvests roughly 160 pounds of gourmet mushrooms per week, selling them for $26-$28 per pound, with offerings that change seasonally. Early spring’s bounty included lion’s mane—“a scary,

puffy brain-looking thing that tastes like crabmeat,” he says—along with pink oyster, Hamilton oyster (a variety indigenous to Loudoun County) and his current personal favorite, pioppino.

About that last one: “It has a classic look with a thin stem and a velvet brown parasol cap,” he says. “The flavor profile is unique and hard to peg with one adjective. It’s a sort of woodsy-meets-bittersweet-nutmeg-cacao kind of thing. I like to pair it with heartier dishes like red meat proteins or anything Italian.”

For scalability, he grows only four types of mushrooms at a time, on average, using a proprietary substrate that combines hardwood sawdust from Appalachian woodlands with wheat bran, gypsum, water and black oil sunflower seeds. “The plant-based fat content is pretty high,” he says of his growing medium. “It’s nice and nutritional for the mycelium to eat.”

For the record, Triplett doesn’t grow or sell psychedelic shrooms (he’s not that kind of mushroom man), though for fun he has been experimenting with a species of Cordyceps, the so-called “zombie fungus” made famous in the videogame-turned HBO drama series The Last of Us. Unlike the fictional fungus in the show, the realworld Cordyceps isn’t a human killer. On the contrary, it has purported medicinal properties that make it a hot commodity.

“I’m playing around just to see if I can get it to grow,” Triplett says. “In Asia it’s considered a delicacy. An ounce, dried, goes for $70. That blows truffles out of the water in terms of return on investment.” ■

by Donn Dobkin

Mushroom farmer

Ian Triplett

familiar faces ■ by David Hagedorn | photo by Rey Lopez

Colada Shop founder Daniella Senior

Tropical Force

At 13, she founded a catering business. Now Daniella Senior is at the forefront of the DMV’s love affair with all things Caribbean.

DANIELLA SENIOR WAS in second grade, growing up in the Dominican Republic capital of Santo Domingo, when her entrepreneurial spirit first became apparent. She asked her parents for RoseArt stickers for Christmas and then sold them to her classmates at lunchtime.

When she was 11, her grandmother fell ill and went to Boston for treatment, accompanied by Senior’s mother. Craving something other than the sandwiches she, her father and two sisters were eating in her mom’s absence, the enterprising preteen taught herself how to cook. She started with Hamburger Helper and then, poring through cookbooks, expanded her repertoire to include lobster thermidor, chicken cordon bleu and Dominican specialties like sancocho (meat and vegetable stew) and moro de habichuelas (rice and beans).

Soon she was whipping up lavish weekend spreads whenever her enormous extended family came over to watch baseball—a Dominican obsession—on TV.

At 13, the budding chef started a catering business during the holiday season, borrowing $200 from her

mother to print brochures and buy gift boxes and ingredients to make 120 petits fours. She distributed the sweets as samples to everyone she knew, including her parents’ 12 siblings and the co-workers at the bank where her mother worked.

“The next day, orders poured in,” says Senior, now 35. “Before I knew it, I had a massive operation. I had to order ovens and equipment. By the end of the year, I had six employees. I had to make arrangements with my high school to leave early every day to manage the business.”

That business would ultimately afford her the opportunity to fulfill a dream. After graduating from high school, she attended the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York, earning a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management in 2010.

By then, Senior had also spent time working in notable Manhattan restaurants Gotham Bar & Grill (now closed) and Le Bernardin. Carrying those credentials with her to D.C., she landed a job at the Four Seasons Hotel, and later at Zaytinya, chef José Andrés’ Levantine hot spot in Penn Quarter, where she increased bar revenue by $1 mil-

lion in the span of one year by introducing craft cocktails and seasonal promotions. That track record led her to launch a hospitality consulting business, The Pour Group, in 2015 with Juan Coronado, a fellow alum of Andrés’ ThinkFoodGroup, acquiring clients in Washington, Miami, Spain and Mexico.

Frequent trips to Miami inspired the idea for Colada Shop, the Cubanstyle coffee bar and café concept the duo would introduce to the D.C. area one year later.

“I couldn’t wait to get [to Miami] because of the Latin coffee experience,” Senior says, recalling how vibrant it felt compared to the anodyne coffee shops serving the same tired muffins and scones in other cities. “I wanted a place with Latin music and food—the smell,

warmth and happiness from my childhood, where you were greeted with a smile and got coffee that hugged you.”

Being beverage people, she and Coronado added cocktails to the mix and opened the first Colada Shop in Sterling in 2015. (In Cuba, a colada is a multi-shot serving of espresso meant to be divvied up and shared.)

Today, the Caribbean concept has six locations throughout the DMV, including a Clarendon café that opened in March. A seventh is slated to debut at National Landing this summer. (The original Sterling location closed in 2020.)

The cafés have a distinct island vibe, with tropical colors, salsa music, rummy cocktails (think mojitos, Cuba libres and piña colada slushies) and Havana blend coffee, plus Latin Amer-

n Multidisciplinary team approach

ican snacks such as empanadas, croquetas, tostones and, of course, a toasted Cuban sandwich with roasted pork, ham, pickles, Swiss cheese and mustard.

Colada Shop’s expansion isn’t the only thing keeping Senior busy. A founding partner in the Michelinstarred restaurant Bresca and owner of the Latin American bar Serenata, both in D.C., she also serves on the boards of the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington and the Culinary Institute of America, as well as on the advisory board of the invitation-only Latino Executive Network. She works with the James Beard Foundation’s Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership Program and the U.S. State Department’s Diplomatic Culinary Partnership. She’s as much an advocate for

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

Robert Christie, MD, FACP

John Feigert, MD

Keeran Sampat, MD

Patricia Rodriguez, MD

Jessica Heintz, MD, FAAHPM

Isabelle Le, MD

hospitality workers as she is a restaurant owner.

“Change comes from policy. There are so many important issues to discuss,” says Senior, who lives in Arlington’s Douglas Park neighborhood with her husband, Andrew Alvarez, and their toddler son, Sebastian. “Childcare is foremost. I spoke to Congress about a path to citizenship for immigrant workers, the backbone of the hospitality industry, who have no security whatsoever.”

As a self-made businesswoman, she’s

“I wanted a place with Latin music and food—the smell, warmth and happiness from my childhood, where you were greeted with a smile and got coffee that hugged you.”

the resilience it took just to get here and their refusal to give up. For them, failure is not an option.”

In what little free time she has, Senior enjoys dining out close to home at Café Colline, Ruthie’s All-Day and Pirouette wine bar. For pamper

Park have filled the void—at least in part—of the extended family Senior left behind in Santo Domingo.

“My little neighborhood is so welcoming,” she says. “Our neighbors have become really close friends, looking out for each other. It’s a strong sense

my life ■ by Annabel Joy | photo by Suz Redfearn

The House That Grief Built

At first, decorating my house felt trivial after my mom’s death. It wasn’t.

WHEN OUR FAMILY left Boston and returned to Arlington, my hometown, in early 2021, I didn’t expect to live in the house where I’d once gone for sleepovers.

It felt almost too provincial, my daughter’s new bedroom under the eaves of our 1922 Craftsman bungalow, the same room where I used to play with American Girl dolls and sing along to the Grease soundtrack. We enjoyed sharing this quaint anecdote with friends and new neighbors—how I was overcome with déjà vu as we unwittingly toured the Cherrydale home where one of my closest elementary school playmates had grown up two decades prior. How it abruptly dawned on me where we were. We took it as a sign the house was meant to be ours.

Then, just two months into our move, my mom went for bloodwork and learned that she was in leukemia crisis. Three days later she was on life support; in less than a month she was gone. Suddenly the familiarity of our new house was a blessing and a balm I hadn’t anticipated. It became an emotional refuge, a place to grieve and heal, and eventually a base for building the life I’d always dreamed for myself.

My mom always taught me that you must create the community you wish to belong to. When I was growing up

(my dad died when I was 3), she was the consummate hostess, presiding over formal dinner parties, afternoon porch visits and everything in between with a grace and style that appeared effortless. Her home in Arlington’s Riverwood neighborhood was the perfect backdrop—an eclectic collection of art, antiques and found objects from her walks in the woods along Windy Run. She displayed a humble bird’s nest alongside delicate blown glass vessels; a bronzed sculpture of a duck beside an abandoned honeycomb.

Following in her footsteps, I threw myself into decorating our new home and starting our own tradition of hosting. We began with a low-stakes neighborhood pumpkin-carving party, followed by a string of dinner parties, backyard cookouts and a birthday extravaganza for our older daughter complete with pink-tinted deviled eggs and a petting zoo of baby bunnies. I found joy in seeing my home filled with friends old and new.

When we first moved back to Arlington, vacating a 900-square-foot New England apartment, we had barely enough furniture to fill one room. Having previously run my own online vintage furniture business (a passion I had developed while scouring the Virginia countryside with my mom in search of

Annabel Joy at home in Cherrydale with keepsakes from her mom’s collection

the best barn sales and antiques dealers), I set myself the challenge of furnishing the rest of our house with only vintage and pre-owned items.

First came the kitchen table— a handmade Amish pedestal table, studded with water rings and slightly warped—that a neighbor was throwing out. I had it refinished and paired it with a faded Turkish rug from Facebook Marketplace. My next big score was the set of lacquered bamboo ladder-back dining chairs I spied on Instagram as a “porch pick up” in Dallas and had shipped here. My husband, Kean, and I reupholstered them in a Schumacher fabric I had lusted after for years. I was off to the races.

And then my mom died.

For several months our home sat half-furnished, suspended in time and heavy with the weight of my grief. I wondered if I’d ever be ready to start designing again, to turn my mind to such trivial questions as paint colors or rug dimensions.

Only when I began to go through my mom’s house and belongings did it dawn on me that the process of blending her home and mine would be central to processing my sorrow. I won’t say healing because great loss is not something one heals from. Rather, it’s like scar tissue that becomes almost comfortable after enough time.

Wading through the memories clinging to her jewelry, her art, her furniture and dishes, I was struck by how much our homes keep the score of our lives. I’ve always loved visiting estate sales. My husband once asked if I found it creepy or depressing to sift through the remnants of other people’s lives. To me, it’s quite the opposite: It’s how their stories live on. There is a certain beauty in recycling an object someone has chosen for their home. Doing so imbues that object with a new layer of significance and history.

Decorating our new house was how I worked through my grief and remem-

bered my mom. It brought to bear all of the things I’ve always espoused as my design philosophy: that your home should be a reflection of who you are and have been, steeped in individuality and rich with the patina of pieces that tell stories.

Seeing the possessions my mom picked out—that I grew up with— recontextualized in my own home, where they now are being used to host friends and neighbors as we put down roots, has allowed her to live on and me to move forward.

I have woven her into the fabric of my life. Her curiosity cabinet stands in my living room—only now, blended in with her treasures, are pieces my husband and I have picked up on our travels, and seashells one of our daughters gathered at the beach.

Our first-floor hallway displays the oil landscapes my mom favored alongside several pieces of contemporary portraiture that my husband and I acquired together, and some of our own work (we both painted in our abundant free time before kids). The space is lit by a vintage green Murano glass chandelier that previously hung in my childhood kitchen, and later in our daughter’s Boston nursery. An African funeral mask from Mom’s art collection sits atop a pedestal table, a wedding gift handmade by my husband’s cousin.

My mom didn’t believe in saving nice things for a rainy day. She lived every moment to its fullest and was never precious about physical objects. Growing up, we ate every meal off the Wedgwood Wild Strawberry china, usually in the formal dining room, and we actually lived in our living room. On any given evening, she and our chocolate Lab could be found curled up on the cream linen sofa, dog hair be damned.

As a parent of young children, I have embraced her philosophy that kidfriendly doesn’t have to mean plastic or

cheap. When I was pregnant with our first daughter and realized the sharp corners of our coffee table were less than ideal for a toddler, I sourced a beautiful vintage rug and had it made into a cocktail ottoman. I chose a dark blue-andbrown Persian textile that would hide stains left by the sticky little hands of a tyke learning to pull up and cruise.

Much of our art collection is within reach of my children’s curious hands. I am teaching them early to have respect and care for delicate objects, to appreciate beauty and understand fragility. That lesson is worth the occasional broken teacup or stained cushion.

As I move forward in my life, creating new traditions, I keep my mom’s memory close. It’s her voice in my head, telling me to go with my gut on the shade of red for the guest room, or to be fearless and have those gorgeous vintage runner rugs that don’t fit our hallway cut down and installed on the stairs.

I wish she could be here to see how her love for grand gestures and drama has rubbed off on me: the oversize disco ball hung in the playroom; the office gallery wall of Kean’s vintage band posters, which I framed and surprised him with for Father’s Day; the pink-and-red polka dot drapes in the dining room. Every room sings with personality.

Call me superstitious, but something about having a home filled with the juju of past generations feels deeply comforting, like wrapping up in one of my mamaw’s quilts. Like my grief, decorating this house is not something that will one day be finished. It’s a process of rearranging, reorganizing around the contours of our evolving life. I will always carry my mom with me. ■

Annabel Joy prefers homes, furniture and people with a bit of patina. When she’s not hunting for vintage treasures she can usually be found getting messy in her kitchen with her daughters or curled up with a good book.

The details that matter to you, matter to us.

FACES 2024

Behind every great business are great people—from doctors, dentists and attorneys to builders, bankers and real estate agents (and more). Faces highlights the amazing professionals who help make our area special and a wonderful place to do business.

ARLINGTON | FALLS CHURCH | MCLEAN

The Face of Artistic Facelifts

Munique Maia, MD, Harvard Trained Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Maia Plastic Surgery

In the heart of Tyson’s Corner exists a sanctuary to enhance natural beauty: Maia Plastic Surgery.

Dr. Maia has earned the admiration of patients, solidifying her reputation as one of DMV’s top plastic surgeons. Armed with a wealth of experience and expertise, she boasts Harvard fellowship training, board certification, and a distinguished career as an author and researcher.

Dr. Maia offers cutting-edge techniques crafted to rejuvenate the face, body and breasts. Her approach transcends mere physical enhancements, delving into the

realms of rejuvenation and quality-of-life. Dr. Maia’s reputation precedes her. She is renowned for her mastery in performing natural facelifts and mommy makeover procedures that inspire awe. Her portfolio of remarkable patient transformations adorns the pages of her website and Instagram, offering a glimpse into her breathtaking results.

703-574-4500

www.maiaplasticsurgery.com @drmaiaplasticsurgery

The Face of Academic Success

The Tutoring Club of McLean Team

Our parents say it best: “Thanks so much for all your help. We’re grateful for the support from everyone at Tutoring Club. It’s a positive, encouraging environment, and we appreciate the great role models who encourage our kids to do their best work and improve their skills.”

Next January, the award-winning Tutoring Club celebrates 15 years of delivering college planning services and readiness tutoring for all ages and abilities. A beloved part of the community, the company provides resources for every student to become a confident, self-motivated learner for life. Michelle

hires and mentors smart, engaging tutors and staff who give students the tools and confidence they need to be successful. Phenomenal staff, coupled with an individualized approach, provide real results and enable students to thrive in school and beyond.

703-237-TUTOR (8886) www.TutoringClub.com/McLeanVA

From left: Alexandra, Michelle, Jada, Bill, Harrison, Laura, Karry

MICHAEL VENTURA

The Face of An Arts-Enhanced Education

Westminster School

For decades, the arts have been a core component at Westminster, woven into the fabric of daily life, resulting in self-discovery, confidence-building and life-long enrichment. The arts serve as an avenue for “right-brain, outside-the-box” thinking, as well as the development of the human spirit.

Westminster offers weekly classes in music and art for all grades (twice-weekly in K-2), with orchestra as an option for grades 3-8. Every student performs in a drama production each year, culminating in a 7 th -grade

Shakespeare play and an 8 th -grade Broadway musical. Talent shows, dance classes, choral performances, and art and poetry contests are central to school life. Academic projects always include a creative component, and field trips to area museums and theaters enhance students’ passion for all areas of the arts.

703-256-3620

www.westminsterschool.com

David Obeid | Potomac Lawn Professionals

One of the highest-rated lawn and landscape maintenance companies in Arlington and Falls Church, Potomac Lawn Professionals goes above and beyond for their clients—focusing not just on yard care, but on adding value to the homes and lives of homeowners. “Your yard is the ‘smile’ of your home,” says David Obeid. “We want to help you be proud of it, enjoy it and love it instead of sweating over it. We make it easy on you, because yardwork is the last worry you want on your plate.” They

create long-term partnerships, working on your side as trusted partners, not just contractors. You won’t have to “micromanage” your lawn company.

“We respond fast and take responsibility for your property. Plus, we’re local, always in the neighborhood.”

703-533-5296

www.potomaclawn.com

Want to know the best way to see homes for sale and tour the neighborhoods of Arlington? On the seat of a bicycle. Go with biking enthusiast Natalie Roy. She and her team offer cycling realty services.

“There’s no better way to check out homes for sale and a neighborhood than by biking,” she says. “Call me today to schedule a bike tour—it’s a fun, informative and eco-friendly real estate workout! We also house-hunt by car, foot and Metro!”

Natalie Roy’s approach is built on personal touches and positive results. She uses the latest technologies, market research and business strategies to give her clients the best possible service and to help them find solutions tailored to their needs. She’s licensed in Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C.

HILARY SCHWAB

The Face of Business Banking Founders Bank

Founders Bank is what a community bank should be: one part technology and one part local bank. The bank officially opened in 2020 with a full-service branch and corporate offices in the Greater D.C. area, along with the recent opening of a loan office in Arlington. The bank builds stronger communities by serving businesses, organizations and the professionals that run them. Experienced bankers offer business loans, real estate loans (including owner-occupied, investment, construction and development), deposit and treasury management services, business credit cards, and consumer loans.

Customers choose Founders Bank for the latest technology, a user-friendly approach and superior customer service by local bankers who care about their communities. Recent events have reminded many of the importance of having the right banking partner. Founders Bank wants to be yours.

703-683-1205 | arlington@founders.bank

www.founders.bank From

STEPHANIE WILLIAMS

The Face of Business Law Arlington Law Group

Arlington Law Group partners with business clients to help them thrive at every stage. Working with both for-profit and non-profit businesses, Arlington Law Group forms new companies, prepares governing documents, handles mergers and acquisitions, negotiates commercial leases and real estate transactions, and obtains 501(c)(3) tax exemptions for non-profits. As clients grow, the firm works to manage risk by advising on insurance, taxes, contracts and employment law.

While each of the firm’s four attorneys specialize in different

areas, clients benefit from the experience of the entire team. Arlington Law Group’s attorneys volunteer in community organizations and bring their connections and experience to bear for all the firm’s clients, whether your business is just starting out or you are planning for a sale or your retirement.

703-842-3025

www.arlingtonlawgroup.com From

2024 FACES

The Face of Business Technology and Operations

James Page, Founder & CEO | Page Global

James (Jimi) Page is the president and CEO of Page Technologies and Langston Technology Hub headquartered in Arlington. As a successful businessman for 30+ years, he began selling commercial copiers, then became a distributor for Konica Minolta, IBM, HP and Amazon. He expanded his business portfolio by acquiring an IoT company with cybersecurity interest.

As a veteran-owned, service-connected small business, Jimi employs 20 industry professionals, servicing clients within the

National Capital Region and across the country. Jimi is a veteran of the United States Navy. A father of four locally educated college graduates, Jimi has experience as a coach, volunteer, civic association president, board member for the District of Columbia Chamber of Commerce as well as other advisory boards such as the Salvation Army, ACC and STEM4US.

866-848-4762

www.langstontechnologyhub.com

STEPHANIE BRAGG

The Face of Catholic Education

Jennifer Kuzdzal, Principal | Saint Agnes Catholic School

For over 75 years, Saint Agnes School has educated students so that they become loving Christians, inspired learners, outstanding achievers, natural communicators and strong servants of God. Located in the tree-lined Cherrydale neighborhood of Arlington, the school offers two classes per grade and small class sizes with a student-teacher ratio of 10:1. Saint Agnes is more than a school, it is a community. Led by award-winning Principal Jen Kuzdzal, the future is

bright at Saint Agnes School. Featuring after-school athletics, fine arts, a hot lunch program and a full-time school nurse, this Blue Ribbon school (2022) is always a unique experience for students and families. A large, elevated turf play area is planned for the 2024-2025 school year.

703-527-5423

www.saintagnes.org

DONNA OWENS

2024 FACES

At Arlington Community Federal Credit Union, we believe that when all our neighbors are empowered to pursue their financial goals, the entire community thrives.

The ACFCU team is committed to making a difference in the community we love, whether we’re providing remarkable service to our members, supporting financial education programs with community partners or supporting the great businesses in our neighborhood.

With a 70+ year history of providing tools and programs that help people and businesses make smarter decisions and use

The Face of Cosmetic Dentistry

Michael Paesani, DMD | NOVA Dental Studio

Dr. Paesani and his team offer general dentistry and cosmetic services for patients of all ages. The practice provides fillings, crowns and other traditional treatments, as well as more advanced procedures such as implants, veneers and Invisalign.

A longtime fixture in the community, NOVA Dental Studio has served families in Arlington for many years.

“We use the latest technology to provide the most accurate fit and design,” Dr. Paesani says. “Custom shading is specific

to each patient to avoid ‘cookie-cutter’ cosmetics. This offers a life-like appearance instead of the blocky, opaque look that poor quality veneers often have.” Dr. Paesani continues advanced education in dental implants and veneers to provide the most upto-date techniques in tooth replacement and ceramic esthetics.

703-237-7725

novadentalstudio.com

MICHAEL VENTURA

The Face of Coverings for Windows & Walls

Kimberleigh Boswell and Will Knicley | Color Wheel

Color Wheel is a family-run small business serving clients throughout Northern Virginia since 1965. The company offers a wide selection for your walls and windows, including highquality Benjamin Moore Paint and Farrow & Ball Paint. They provide an extensive library of over 650 wallpaper books, including numerous designer lines. They can also assist you with custom window treatments in a wide variety of styles. Custom shade, blind and shutters lines featuring Hunter

Douglas Window Fashions, Lafayette Interior Fashions and Norman Window Coverings. Color Wheel assists customers with custom draperies, valances and roman shades for homes and offices—everything to inspire you and reflect your personal style!

703-356-8477

MyColorWheel.com

MICHAEL VENTURA

Cunda emerged from a rich legacy of shipbuilding. Our founder’s grandfather, ‘Cunda Ali,’ settled on Cunda Island in the Aegean Sea, and a heritage of precision and durability in shipbuilding is deep in the ethos of Cunda Construction.

Cunda specializes in custom homes and large additions. A home is more than just a structure. It’s a personal sanctuary that reflects the unique preferences and lifestyles of its inhabitants. Cunda’s team understands a client’s vision and transforms them into tangible realities. “We pride

ourselves on quality and attention to detail. Our projects are not just about constructing spaces, they’re about creating environments that resonate with comfort, elegance and functionality,” says Ali. Whether a country home or a modern urban residence, Cunda ensures unwavering dedication to craftsmanship and satisfaction.

571-496-9095

2024 FACES

The Face of Cut, Color & Style

Salon Virage

Salon Virage sets the standard for excellence in hair care in the heart of Merrifield. The salon has established itself as the premier destination for luxurious hair care and impeccable styling. Renowned for its exceptional service and talented team of stylists, Salon Virage has been recognized as a top salon and featured in Washingtonian, Northern Virginia and Arlington magazines.

Delivering top-tier services and staying at the forefront of industry trends, the team of skilled stylists and colorists are

dedicated to creating personalized and on-trend looks for each client. From chic cuts to vibrant color transformations, these experts will work with you to bring your hair dreams to life. Whether you’re looking for a bold new look or a refreshing touch-up, Salon Virage offers a full range of hair services.

703-204-9290

salonvirage.com

The Face of Daily Money Management

Christine Dolan, MBA, Founder & CEO | C. Dolan & Associates

Christine has a passion for assisting clients who are very busy or have difficulty managing personal financial matters. “We turn your piles into files!” she says, as her team works across the DMV with high-net-worth individuals and families, seniors, and adult children of seniors who are juggling careers and families who don’t have the staff or expertise to handle these challenges themselves. Services are customized for every client’s needs and can include bill payment and management, budgeting, expense tracking, and document and tax organizing.

The company builds solid relationships through strong financial and organizational skills, great patience, and a sunny good nature, putting clients, families and professionals at ease. As your daily money manager, they will help you navigate and organize your financial paperwork to restore your peace of mind.

703-868-8664

christine@cdolanfinancial.com

cdolanfinancial.com

2024 FACES

The Face of Design Build

Michael and Deborah Sauri | TriVistaUSA Design + Build

This award-winning, family-owned boutique design + build firm is based in Arlington. Michael and Deborah built the company to provide high-design solutions on time and on budget to achieve functional solutions for every lifestyle. “We deliver creative solutions, rooted in resource-efficient building techniques and a deep appreciation of Arlington that inform our remodeling projects or new builds,” Michael says. “And we love building cool projects for cool people.”

Both are artists at heart. Michael is a former rock guitarist

and Deborah is a graphic designer for national brands. Together, their team of talented architects and designers has won 60+ awards, including Best Remodeler 2024 by the readers of Arlington Magazine. Michael is the president of the Professional Remodeling Organization (PRO) and a steering committee member for the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University.

703-243-3171

www.TriVistaUSA.com

The Face of Divorce Law

Hicks Crandall Juhl PC

The attorneys at Hicks Crandall Juhl, P.C. understand that family law matters can be stressful and challenging, even for the best of people. They provide sound guidance to assist clients in navigating the hard decisions during this process. Dissolving relationships is complicated.

While each case is unique, the firm believes that resolving disputes peacefully and economically without litigation is optimal. However, when negotiations fail, attorneys are prepared to litigate vigorously. The firm handles a multitude of family

law matters, and the attorneys are seasoned litigators with experience arguing before courts throughout Virginia.

Known for experienced, trusted and respected representation, attorneys Susan Hicks, Camille Crandall, Kelly Juhl, Dana Wolfson, Sarah Piper and Haley Heston are honored to assist in family law matters.

703-691-4848

www.hcj-law.com

Simply Downsized is Arlington’s top choice for senior moves, downsizing services and estate clear-outs. Anna’s friendly, practical approach simplifies decision-making and helps people focus and stay motivated throughout an emotional process. If you’re just getting started, you’ll love Anna’s free one-year, sixmonth and one-month plans that include online checklists, local recommendations and timely reminders. Then, when it’s time to make your move, Anna supports you with hands-on help and

project oversight from start to finish. “I love the look of visible relief when my clients realize they can take the belongings they want and walk away from the rest,” she says. “We handle auctions, donations and disbursal, clearing their homes quickly and completely so they can move on to new adventures.” 703-237-1493 www.SimplyDownsized.com

STEPHANIE BRAGG

The Face of Employment Law

Broderick C. Dunn, Esquire | Cook Craig & Francuzenko, PLLC

Firm partner Broderick Dunn helps individuals and small businesses navigate litigation and counsels clients in dispute avoidance. Focusing on labor and employment counseling and litigation, Dunn represents federal government and private sector employees as well as employers. He is licensed in Virginia and Maryland as well as federal courts in the District of Columbia. For the past several years, he has been honored by Super Lawyers in the

area of employment litigation. Dunn has also been named to Virginia Business Magazine’s Legal Elite in the area of labor and employment law. Mr. Dunn is a graduate of Woodberry Forest School, Williams College, and Washington & Lee University School of Law.

703-865-7480

www.cookcraig.com

The Face of Falls Church Real Estate

Tori McKinney | ROCK STAR realty group

Tori loves Falls Church as much as Falls Church loves her. Whether supporting teachers and schools, affordable housing or charity events, Tori is everywhere as are her ROCK STAR realty group signs. With her finger on the pulse of Falls Church, she effortlessly weaves connections between residents and businesses. Through partnerships, she serves as a beacon of community spirit, encouraging everyone to come together and thrive.

Trusted and reliable with a deep understanding of Falls Church, Tori and her team are the go-to resource for all

things real estate. They create lasting impacts that go beyond transactions, thus connecting their clients with the neighborhood in a meaningful way. “Shop local/live local is my mantra,” she says. “I believe it creates a vibrant tapestry of collaboration and a powerful investment in the local economy.”

703-867-8674

ROCKSTARrealtygroup.com

The Face of Family Law

Mullett Dove & Bradley Family Law, PLLC

MDB offers award-winning counsel for divorce and family law. With an emphasis on comprehensive service, firm attorneys are dedicated to assisting clients in a wide variety of family-related matters. The attorneys of MDB have significant experience handling complex divorce and custody issues, and they also efficiently resolve many routine and straightforward uncontested matters.

Firm services are tailored to the unique circumstances of each client. The attorneys make every effort to reach resolution through amicable negotiations, mediation or the collaborative

divorce process, but they are also well known for producing positive results in the courtroom and zealously advocating for clients when litigation is necessary.

The practice is focused primarily in the trial courts of Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C., as well as the appellate courts of the Commonwealth.

703-522-8100

www.mdbfamilylaw.com

The Face of Financial Law

Odin Feldman Pittleman

OFP’s interdisciplinary team of experienced finance attorneys possesses a unique blend of negotiation and documentation skills, coupled with in-depth industry knowledge. Because each client has specific needs and goals for financing, they take a personalized approach, tailoring services to suit your individual requirements. Whether you’re a startup looking for initial funding or an established corporation seeking to expand, they have the expertise to guide you through the complexities.

The attorneys are well-versed in a wide range of financing

structures and have a deep understanding of sophisticated financial products. By designing innovative and effective solutions and building lasting relationships with clients, this finance group has a proven track record of success, assisting businesses across various industries in achieving their financial goals.

703-218-2100

www.ofplaw.com

The Wise Investor Group® is a nationally recognized financial advisory team known for their cohesive financial planning services. Greg Smith, a managing partner and a founding member, has over 20 years of experience in financial planning. As a Certified Financial Planner™, Greg helps clients make important financial decisions on Social Security benefits, Roth IRA conversions and efficient distribution strategies out of inherited IRA accounts. With a master’s degree in financial planning and psychology, Greg values maintaining balance, educating clients and collaborating with their other professional advisors. The team is dedicated to providing personalized and detailed financial

A native of Fairfax, Vie specializes in helping first-time buyers and sellers throughout Northern Virginia and D.C. She brings invaluable experience and knowledge about local markets, which allows her to strategically plan, negotiate and provide her clients with the right tools to buy their dream home or sell with ease—and at top dollar. Vie’s genuine passion for real estate and design, coupled with her ability to build valuable and trusting relationships with her clients, has been key to her

success as a top producer and sought-after agent. Vie curates thoughtful plans based on her clients’ individual needs, goals and situations. She believes in empowering clients through honest communication, taking time to listen and understand, and putting in the effort to explain the details throughout the process. 703-409-3126 | www.vienguyenred.com

The Face of Headshot Photography

DC Headshots

by Kristina Sherk

As the leading female headshot photographer in the DMV, exclusively photographing headshots for two decades, Kristina’s work stands above the rest. She focuses meticulously on details, carefully posing and lighting her subjects. “I consider how I’d like to look if I were being photographed,” she says. Her clients are often shocked at results, even before retouching. Clients can also rest assured because Kristina has a money-back guarantee. If you don’t love your headshots, you don’t pay.

Kristina also founded Sharkpixel.com, a popular training site where she has taught over one million photographers how to use Photoshop and Lightroom to improve their photos. Choose Kristina for an experienced headshot photographer and world-renowned retoucher who adds the best finishing touches possible to your headshots.

240-338-2676

www.kristinasherk.com

The Face of A Healthy Dental Lifestyle

Dr. Manisha Grover | Clarendon Dental Arts

At Clarendon Dental Arts, they view each patient’s well-being as a whole and treat your mouth as the gateway to your body. Dr. Grover partners with you in achieving optimal health through an integrative approach that considers your unique biology, focusing on addressing root causes rather than just symptoms. The team practices precision dentistry guided by the latest research in oral systemic health and cutting-edge technology. Under their philosophy of “Caring for Your Mouth, Mind, and

Body,” they tailor treatments to individual needs, identifying and integrating risk factors into personalized plans based on your health, genetics and lifestyle. Throughout your journey with the practice, they prioritize your comfort and confidence, ensuring a comprehensive approach to your overall well-being.

703-525-5901

www.clarendondentalarts.com

The Face of Home Loans

Monument Home Loans

Home mortgages are what Monument does—and all it does. With no juggling of auto loans, ATMs and asset management, the focus is solely on ensuring every client has a smooth and predictable financing experience. Monument’s team works with clients from all backgrounds—first-time buyers, experienced buyers, refinancing, jumbo loans, self-employed, credit-challenged—and is adept at finding the right options for any situation.

Monument understands mortgages should not be onesize-fits-all, offering one of the widest arrays of mortgage products in the DMV, and works closely with clients to

identify the program that best meets their needs and goals. Regardless of a customer’s circumstances, the Monument team has one objective—to close loans on time, as expected, and as efficiently as possible.

703-650-7431

The Face of Insurance

William P. Simons IV, President | Rust Insurance Agency

Billy Simons, the president of Rust Insurance Agency in Washington D.C., epitomizes the face of insurance with a legacy spanning 135 years. His leadership and the collective experience of the Rust team have established them as an unparalleled authority in both corporate and private client business. Billy’s strategic vision and commitment to excellence have solidified the agency’s position as the nation’s oldest insurance brokerage. With a wealth of industry knowledge, he

guides clients through the intricacies of insurance, offering tailored solutions that reflect the agency’s longstanding commitment to customer satisfaction. Under Billy’s stewardship, Rust Insurance Agency continues to thrive, embodying a legacy of trust, reliability and expertise in the insurance landscape.

202-776-5013

www.rustinsurance.com

Let Veronica help you in Arlington and connect you with her local and international real estate network. Just see what her clients say:

“We recently had the pleasure of working with Veronica in selling our property. Her expertise and dedication were evident, as she managed to sell our property in record time. Her resourcefulness and easygoing nature made the entire process a breeze. She was incredibly proactive, always keeping us informed

and skillfully guiding us at each of the sale stages. Her ability to provide us feedback based on data for us to make informed decisions was invaluable. We wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone looking to sell or buy property. She’s not just a Realtor; she’s a true asset to have on your side.” —Monica Y.

The Face of Invisalign

Drs. Danielle Robb, Zach Casagrande and Jessica Itani

Northern Virginia Orthodontics

Dr. Zach Casagrande established Northern Virginia Orthodontics in 2008 and has led the practice towards remarkable growth, now boasting six doctors, a team of 60 members and seven locations across the region—including one here in Arlington. Conveniently located on Clarendon Boulevard, NVO Arlington welcomed its first patients this past June. Dr. Casagrande, Dr. Danielle Robb and Dr. Jessica Itani regularly treat patients here with cutting-edge technology and exemplary service.

NVO proudly holds the title of the nation’s #1 Invisalign® provider, having successfully treated over 30,000 patients, from mild to complex malocclusions. Invisalign® isn’t restricted to adults alone—NVO extends its services to pediatric patients as young as six years old with Invisalign® First products.

703-327-1718

nvorthodontics.com

The Face of A Jeweler for All Occasions

Boone & Sons Jewelers

Specializing in engagements, weddings, anniversaries and delightful surprises, Boone and Sons fulfills the need for style, quality and service. French Boone opened his first store over 50 years ago, instilling a powerful commitment to providing great value along with the intimacy of a local, family-run business. Today, three generations of Boones are currently working in the company’s three Washington area locations. While the jewelry industry constantly evolves, Boone & Sons Jewelers

has thrived with an unwavering commitment to service and value. Generations of Washingtonians seek the personal touch and expertise Boone & Sons provides for their beloved life milestones. No wonder Boone & Sons has become known as Washington’s “First Family of Jewelers.”

703-734-3997

www.booneandsons.com

The Face of Land Use & Zoning Law

Walsh, Colucci, Lubeley & Walsh, PC

Highly regarded for their accomplishments in land use and zoning law, this team has had their finger on the pulse of the Northern Virginia real estate market for four decades. With offices in Arlington, Prince William, Loudoun and Winchester, the practice shepherds clients through local government zoning approvals across multiple jurisdictions and acts as liaison between developers and local communities.

With zoning cases encompassing a wide spectrum, from drive-through restaurants to the headquarters of Fortune 500 companies, each case is approached with a comprehensive

understanding of community concerns, environmental sustainability, historic preservation and affordable housing.

T

he team includes top legal and planning talent, with many deeply involved in local civic and political organizations. The firm offers established relationships with authorities, coupled with intimate knowledge of the region.

703-528-4700

info@thelandlawyers.com

www.thelandlawyers.com

The Face of Luxury Real Estate

Diane Lewis

The Lewis Team, Washington Fine Properties

For more than 25 years, Diane has been successfully helping buyers and sellers around the metro area. Consistently recognized as a top-producing agent, she leads one of the region’s top teams. Diane knows the market, offers excellent, honest guidance, and treats her customers like family. The team brings a seamless approach to buying and selling, and her clients remember the personal and compassionate care they received long after the transaction closes.

“We deliver first-class service, expert market knowledge and trustworthy advice, helping clients make the best decisions for their particular lifestyles,” she says.

Diane is well-connected with other agents, which is very important in a market with tight inventory and many homes selling before they hit the MLS. About 90% of the team’s business comes from repeat clients and referrals.

703-973-7001

LewisTeam.com

The Face of Lyon Village Real Estate

Hannah Lynn | McEnearney Associates

For exceptional real estate service in Lyon Village, Hannah is more than just a Realtor. She’s a trusted advisor and friendly neighbor, embodying the community’s values of excellence and integrity.

Hannah specializes in the neighborhood and lives there with her husband and beloved dog. Her passion for Lyon Village’s blend of suburban ease and city living also sets her apart. She recognizes the potential in each home, whether an older colonial or contemporary masterpiece. She enjoys

helping her clients envision the possibilities, guiding them with care and expertise.

She prioritizes client needs, ensuring that each transaction is seamless and successful. And with her keen eye for design, she helps to create spaces that reflect their unique style and vision.

703-973-8170

TheLynnTeamRE.com

The Face of McLean Real Estate

Nestled just minutes from D.C., McLean is the cherished haven for its successful and vibrant community. For Jesse, his wife, two daughters and their furry companions, McLean is not just a location—it’s home. As the Managing Partner of the Venture Group at Compass, Jesse approaches clients as a consultant, prioritizing empowerment over mere transactions. In an era dominated by AI and social media, Jesse’s emphasis on listening and effective communication stands as a rare skill.

Backed by the market-leading brokerage, Compass, Jesse and his team take pride in their boutique approach. Rooted in McLean, Jesse Sutton welcomes the opportunity to be your trusted real estate advisor.

202-997-4361

Jesse.Sutton@compass.com

Theventurepropertygroup.com

Jesse C. Sutton, Managing Partner | The Venture Group, Compass Real Estate

The Face of Med Spa & Wellness

Azure Dream Day Spa

Azure Dream Day Spa delivers a holistic approach to wellness, from relaxing massages and top-of-the-line skincare to the most advanced Med Spa treatments—all at a luxurious oasis in the heart of Arlington. At Azure, every guest will find a soothing retreat with friendly personal service and exquisite results.

Personalized treatment plans ease the mind, body and spirit. The spa takes advantage of top-quality products and the latest state-of-the-art equipment and technology to achieve

optimal results for every guest. Azure only employs licensed, experienced and caring staff for their team.

Voted Best Spa in 2024 and Best Facial in 2023 by Arlington Magazine’s readers, Azure also perennially appears on Northern Virginia Magazine’s Top Spas list.

703-243-4343

www.azuredreamspa.com

MICHAEL VENTURA

The Face of Mental Health

Drs. Debra Brosius and Eva Theodosiadis, Co-Owners Integrated Psychology Associates of McLean, LLC

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to increase awareness about mental health’s vital role in our overall health and well-being. This time of year is often associated with growth, renewal and positivity—a perfect time to focus on our mental health. The providers at IPA, McLean, look forward to supporting you in these goals. By raising awareness and acceptance of mental health, we not only empower ourselves

but also reinforce the message that it is okay not to be okay and encourage people to seek help when they need it. When you take care of your mental health, you become more resilient, making it easier to find ways to manage life stressors.

703-288-3300

www.ipamclean.com

DONNA OWENS

As a West Point grad, Army veteran, and military child and spouse, Ashleigh has moved over 20 times, living in 18 different states, as well as Spain and Korea. She understands the stress and upheaval that can often accompany a move, be it across town or across the big blue ocean. She also understands the exhilaration of exploring a new town and the thrill and anxiety that often comes along with buying or selling a home, including sometimes buying sight unseen.

Ashleigh values honesty and integrity above all else. She understands the importance of listening and establishing an open line of communication. She’s your advocate! Once you’ve worked with her, you will truly understand that you Get Way

More with Wehmeyer!

703-254-9761

ashleigh.wehmeyer@compass.com

AshleighWehmeyer.com

MICHAEL VENTURA

The Face of Modern Private Education

Kristin Carpenter, Founder | The Linder Academy

Linder Academy is a K-8 private school in Old Town, and they are proud to announce the opening of a new high school campus in September 2025 (also located in Old Town). They also offer summer camps, academic programs and after-school support. Carpenter knows every student and parent by name and is deeply invested in their journey.

“We make confident students and enthusiastic lifelong learners, but we never forget that it’s more important to be a good person than a good student,” she says. “Our program

focuses on developing the whole child and letting them discover how they want to engage with the world.”

The school has created the most developmentally appropriate education, serving students with disabilities, gifted students and 2E students, as well as typically developing children. It is academically rigorous while being inclusive.

703-647-9354

www.thelinderacademy.com

STEPHANIE BRAGG

2024 FACES

The Face of Montessori Education

The Montessori School of McLean

The Montessori School of McLean (MSM) is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. In 1973, MSM opened its doors with one elementary and one primary classroom. Fifty years later, MSM is an accredited leading independent school in Northern Virginia. Today, they proudly educate students ages 2-12 across eleven classrooms. Set in bucolic McLean, MSM enjoys an expansive campus with green space and lightfilled classrooms. Augmenting the Montessori philosophy, students participate in enrichments including: Spanish,

Outdoor Classroom, Art, Science, Technology, Library, Music, Drama and P.E.

MSM provides an exceptional foundation to students during the most important years in their educational journeys by focusing on the whole child. This empowers students to learn at their own pace, preparing them to be kind, confident leaders of tomorrow.

703-790-1049

www.mcleanmontessori.org

MICHAEL VENTURA

The Face of North Arlington Real Estate

Katie Wethman, CPA, MBA

My Move DMV at eXp Realty

Not many real estate agents have the career path that Katie Wethman has had: She is a CPA, she earned her MBA at University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business, and she worked for Deloitte Consulting, Corporate Executive Board and Freddie Mac before entering the real estate business. Now, she and her team work with homebuyers and sellers throughout Virginia, Maryland and D.C.

My Move DMV (previously the Wethman Group) has helped hundreds of clients throughout the past 18 years, and they are passionate about educating clients to help them make better decisions. “Everyone on our team earns our clients’ trust, helping them think through all the options for buying a great home and also getting a great return on their investment,” she says.

703-655-7672

www.mymoveDMV.com

STEPHANIE BRAGG

The Face of Outdoor Living

Robert F. Groff, Chief Vision Officer | Groff Landscape Design

For years, area homeowners have turned to Groff Landscape Design for useable, custom, livable outdoor spaces. Family-owned and operated, the company designs and builds all elements essential to outdoor living and entertainment, including patios, pools, decks, walkways, retaining walls and landscaping. Led by Robert Groff, the expert team creates a low-stress experience with outstanding craftsmanship, clear communication and meticulous management of every aspect of your project.

The company has earned client kudos and awards from Houzz, Arlington Magazine and Angie’s List.

“We create outdoor spaces our clients love! As part of our service, we guarantee both our timeline and pricing. Life is busy and our goal is to ensure an easy process, so you can stay focused on what’s important in your day,” says Groff.

703-999-8225

www.grofflandscapedesign.com

The Face of Pizza pie-tanza

pie-tanza continues to keep their mission simple: Serve consistent, delicious food in a friendly, warm environment and continue to be an integral part of the community.

Crisp, thin crust, wood-fired pizza remains the backbone of the popular menu, while the 7,000-pound oven is the centerpiece of the warm dining atmosphere. Upon entering the restaurant, guests are welcomed by the enticing smells of fresh food being prepared, a bustling, lively dining room, and a friendly hello.

As pie-tanza’s 19th anniversary approaches, its success comes from long-time staff who are committed to consistency, great food and excellent service, as well as the loyal guests and supportive community who provide pie-tanza the opportunity to give back.

703-237-0200

www.pie-tanza.com

The Face of Professional Painting Tech Painting Company, Inc.

Since 1987, Tech Painting Company has redefined service excellence in the painting industry, focusing on delivering superior results and experiences. Specialized divisions for residential, commercial and school facility services demonstrate expertise and a dedication to fulfilling customer needs. Its success stems from its commitment to its workforce, which includes employing skilled professionals and investing in their development, leading to an average tenure of over 10 years. Tech Painting has contributed over $750,000 in donations

and volunteer efforts to local causes and organizations as part of its mission. Dedication to quality, employee growth and community engagement positions it as a trusted industry and community leader. This has resulted in over 10,000 satisfied customers, with over 90 percent of business stemming from repeat clients and referrals.

703-684-7702

www.techpainting.com

The Face of Professionalism in Real Estate

John Mentis | Long & Foster Real Estate

Over the last 20 years, John has prospered through all the ups and downs of the local market. He has seen plenty of challenges and constant change, so he can be trusted to help you buy or sell residential real estate, whether it is in Virginia, D.C. or Maryland.

Over the last five years, he was the number one agent in Long & Foster Real Estate’s Arlington office three times and one of the Top 100 Elite Agents in the entire company. A DMV resident

since 1986, John is very familiar with the trade-offs involved with one location versus another. Ninety percent of his annual business comes from repeat clients, their referrals, referrals from other agents and corporate relocations.

703-522-0500 (office)

202-549-0081 (cell)

johnmentis.com

The Face of Real Estate Law

Susan M. Pesner, Janna E. Wolff and Nana K. Yeboah Pesner Altmiller Melnick DeMers & Steele | Tysons

Real estate—it’s the center of our universe! From a dream home to strategic investments, real estate law transcends mere transactions, drawing into its orbit other practices such as contracts and estate planning. Fortunately, this team excels in navigating each of these realms. Attorneys Pesner, Wolff and Yeboah boast the expertise to cater to your diverse legal requirements. Through their commitment to all things real estate, they represent brokerages, sellers and buyers, and they

provide guidance to the real estate industry at large. Whether it is a new real estate transaction or you need advice on the law or ethics, trust them to safeguard your interests, properly structuring your transaction along the way. Give them the opportunity to be your guide on your real estate journey!

703-506-9440

www.pesner.com

STEPHANIE BRAGG

The Face of Remodeling Excellence

Damon Cruz, General Manager | Heartland Design and Remodeling

Working in the industry for over 30 years, Damon Cruz has risen to general manager after a career in project management and sales in commercial and residential building. With a passion for design, a tried-and-true remodeling process and client-focused leadership, he helps ensure each client turns their existing home into the home of their dreams. He earned his MBA from the University of Maryland and will take the design/build company to the next level for years to come.

Without an effective process and talented professionals,

Heartland would not be where it is today. Serving Northern Virginia for nearly 40 years, Heartland has built a reputation that people come back to again and again. The team offers talented, award-winning designers and architects to create the project and a seasoned production team to help execute the vision.

703-369-3000

www.heartlanddesign.com

The Face of A Stylish Patina Home

Kelly Millspaugh

Thompson

Stylish Patina Home

Meet the face and brains behind Stylish Patina Home in Falls Church City. What started as a love for repurposing vintage furniture and home renovation in 2010 has turned into a lifestyle brand focused on all things home. Kelly became a licensed Realtor in 2018 and real estate quickly became the core of Stylish Patina Home.

A Realtor with a designer’s eye, Kelly offers home liquidation, home preparation, staging, renovation and design services. Her rolodex of contractors becomes yours when you work with her. She spent 15 years in the corporate world and earned an MBA, and she brings her business acumen when representing clients. You can visit her retail shop Stylish Patina Home at 248 W. Broad Street in Falls Church.

703-303-3700

www.stylishpatina.com

DONNA OWENS

Dr. Jeffrey Brown | Sleep & TMJ Therapy

Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) affects patients of all ages and is not well understood. “It’s become my mission to teach both patients and doctors what it’s all about,” says Dr. Brown.

Symptoms include popping or clicking of the joints, limited opening, headaches, visual disturbances, ear ringing, misaligned bite, teeth grinding, dizziness, hearing problems, eye pain, clogged ears or tightness in the throat.

Sleep apnea is basically sleep-disordered breathing in which you

stop breathing several times every hour of the night. This leads to poor quality sleep and eventually can lead to cardiovascular disease, diabetes and even cancer. The two disorders tend to correlate with each other frequently. “We want to educate every person who walks in our door and spread the word to their friends and family.”

703-821-1103

www.SleepandTMJTherapy.com

Formerly Washington Wealth Advisors, the Washington Wealth Team at Wealth Enhancement Group offers advisory services to those seeking to elevate their financial planning approach with a trusted partner. They specialize in providing clients with financial planning and investment management services backed by team-based knowledge to simplify their financial lives. Committed to helping clients reach their financial goals, the team is founded on the fiduciary standard of care. Goalsbased advice is driven by their clients’ best interest. The team is committed to sharing independent financial advice that

The Face of Wealth Management

Evermay Wealth Management

At Evermay, wealth planning is about much more than money— it’s about possibilities.

We understand that wealth management goes far beyond numbers. It’s about understanding your dreams, ambitions and the legacy you wish to leave behind. Our dedicated team of wealth advisors is committed to working closely with you, whether you’re a family, individual, entrepreneur, retiree, or represent a trust or foundation.

With a highly personalized approach, we craft comprehensive wealth strategies tailored to your unique circumstances. From

investments to estate planning, philanthropy to next-generation guidance, we cover every facet of wealth management to help ensure your financial security and peace of mind.

Call today to speak with an Evermay advisor in our Arlington office. Learn how we can help guide you on the path to a richer life.

703-822-5696

www.evermaywealth.com Evermay

2024 FACES

The Face of

Young

Learners Congressional School | Falls Church

The Congressional School campus is filled with activity well beyond the school day, and the 40-acre campus, abundant with natural resources, is the perfect backdrop for daily learning and play. The school understands the importance of student experiences outdoors in nature, and teachers prioritize their time outside as well as in.

Within Congressional School’s caring community, students find many ways to get involved and make lifelong friends.

Students love their school and think of it as a second home. It is a place for learning and growing, recreation and sports, nurturing friendships, and gaining positive experiences that will stay with them for life.

703-533-9711

admission@congressionalschool.org

www.congressionalschool.org

ANIKA METCALF

The Face of Youth Baseball

Arlington Little League (ALL)

Growing baseball since 1986, ALL offers spring and fall programs, plus free Summer Sandlot and Winter Skills Clinics. The all-volunteer organization is part of Little League International.

Kids start with Jr. T-Ball at age four and continue playing through age 13. ALL emphasizes player development, sportsmanship and balanced competition. Outstanding coaches introduce new skills as the season progresses. A Challengers Division serves athletes with mental and physical disabilities.

During tournament play, All-Star teams face tough competition from Alexandria, McLean and Vienna. Eight teams will compete in 2024, two of which could go all the way to the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

Voted Arlington’s Best Youth Sports League, ALL welcomes players of all abilities and backgrounds. Registration for fall starts in June at www.arlingtonlittleleague.org.

www.arlingtonlittleleague.org

ADOBE STOCK (WOOD TABLETOP); ALL OTHERS COURTESY PHOTOS

Seasoned PROS

These area restaurants have been in business for decades for a reason. Meet the families and friends behind the menus.

BY DAVID HAGEDORN

Sometimes we diners are so busy looking for the hot and new that we forget about the tried and true—restaurants that have been providing consistent, homey cooking out of the spotlight’s glare, often for decades.

Northern Virginia has its gems, and there are through lines that speak to their staying power. Customer loyalty is a big one. Many proprietors share stories of diners who stopped in for first dates and later returned with toddlers, then college graduates, and now grandchildren, keeping the tradition going. Those sentimental bonds kept many

beloved establishments afloat through the pandemic, even as newer restaurants shuttered. “We had a customer buy $10,000 worth of gift cards,” recalls Grace Abi-Najm Shea, co-owner of Lebanese Taverna, “and people really tipped generously to make up for lost incomes.”

Lately, forces of change have brought more challenges, from new technologies and skyrocketing food and supply costs, to evolving menu expectations around food allergies and other dietary restrictions. Some longstanding restaurants face uncertain futures, with leases set to expire and children who have no interest in carrying on the family business.

At the same time, the keys to their longevity are clear: Be adaptable. Don’t mess with the menu too much. Provide excellent service. Don’t take customers for granted and be active in the community.

“We’re not just a place for food and drinks,” says Almaz Dama, co-owner of Dama Restaurant and Cafe on Columbia Pike. “We are a social gathering place. We are involved in the community and donate food to all the Ethiopian churches. That makes us happy.”

Here are some treasured dining spots that have been serving hungry locals for 25 years or more.

Dama Restaurant & Cafe

Open since 1999

Even in the middle of the day, the parking lot of this eatery near the Air Force Memorial is full—mostly with rideshare cars whose Ethiopian drivers are hanging out inside drinking coffee, shooting the breeze and nibbling on confections such as chornake (deep-fried dough) and doughnut-like bonbolinos.

Dama has two parts: a 60-seat restaurant and a 30-seat bakery and café with a display case full of treats by co-owner and pastry chef Almaz Dama, including mousse cake, fruit tarts, cream puffs and napoleons, many of which are vegan.

The business is a family affair. Sister Kelem does the savory cooking; brother Hailu handles purchasing and management duties, while his wife, Amsale

Saife-Selassie, assists Almaz with pastries and wedding cakes. Kelem’s 26-year-old daughter, Rita Mulugeta, helps with catering. She wants to carry on Dama’s legacy.

The Dama family’s story personifies the American Dream. The oldest brother, Tesfaye (one of nine siblings), immigrated to Wisconsin in 1969 to study. Others followed in the ’70s and ’80s, fleeing political turmoil in their homeland and settling in the D.C.-area because of its large Ethiopian population. “Most of our family were in prison and one of our brothers was killed. We couldn’t go home,” says Almaz. “America was heaven.”

The original Dama, which Almaz’s sister Yeshi opened on North Capitol Street in the District in 1982, had a four-year run. That’s where Almaz first started cooking. The café was buying so many croissants and pastries that she

decided to learn how to make them herself, taking courses at L’Academie de Cuisine in Bethesda (now closed) under former White House pastry chef Roland Mesnier. Today, she and her siblings are partners in the Arlington family business.

Regulars flock to Dama for Ethiopian specialties such as wats (stews), tibs (cubes of protein sauteed with spices and vegetables) and kitfo, a spicy beef tartare with farmer’s cheese. All savory dishes are served with injera, the spongy flatbread that is fundamental to any Ethiopian meal.

Many of the menu offerings are vegetarian or vegan, including plantbased versions of meat dishes. The kitchen makes its own meat alternative with wheat flour and tofu, and even offers vegan dulet, a dish that’s usually made with offal. // 1505 Columbia Pike, Arlington; damapastry.com

MICHAEL VENTURA

From left: Hailu Dama, Kelem Dama, Almaz Dama and Amsale Saife-Selassie

Open since 1979

When Tanios and Marie Abi-Najm scraped together the money to buy the Greek restaurant at the corner of McKinley Road and Washington Boulevard in 1979, they didn’t have enough left over to change all of the letters on the sign out front. That’s how Athenian Taverna became Lebanese Taverna in Westover. Now the couple’s five chil-

facility, a market and a concession at Reagan National Airport.

Running a family business hasn’t always been a smooth ride, says Grace Abi-Najm Shea, who handles operations, sales and marketing. The Covid years were especially rough, although Lebanese Taverna’s origin story puts it all in perspective: With their 13- and 15-year-old sons about to be forced into the military, the elder Abi-Najms

fled Lebanon in 1976 amid a civil war, with $500 to their name, joining other family members who had already emigrated to Virginia. Today, most of the family lives in McLean (Shea, an Arlington resident, is the exception). Tanios, the patriarch, is 93. Marie is 80 and still checks on the restaurants to make sure the food and cleanliness remain up to her standards.

Shea says one key to their company’s enduring popularity has been to continually evolve without compromising quality. When the first Lebanese verna opened in Arlington, specialties such as baba ghanoush, kibbeh nayeh (lamb tartare) and baklava were novelties for American palates. “We used to be a destination place,” she observes. “Now there are Mediterranean restaurants closer to where people live. No one knew hummus before. Now you can get it at Clyde’s and buy SpongeBob hummus singles at Costco. But ours is still better.”

The Abi-Najms were early adopters, branching into the fast-casual market in 1998 and highlighting gluten-free fare in 2007. “Lebanese cuisine is timeless. We fit into a lot of trends—like the pomegranate craze and offering vegetarian and vegan items,” Shea says. The restaurant’s vegetable-forward dishes were never a stretch, she adds. Lebanon’s large Christian culture has always demanded meatless options for Lent.

Today, she and her siblings have nine children among them, all of whom currently or previously worked in the restaurants during their high school and college years. So far none has expressed an interest in taking the reins. That choice is up to them, Shea says. “We felt like we had to do it to support our parents. We don’t want to put that on them.” // 5900 Washington Blvd. (Westover) and 1101 S. Joyce St. (Westpost), Arlington; 2001 International Drive, Tysons. See lebanesetaverna.com for additional locations.

The Abi-Najm siblings today

McLean Family Restaurant

Open since 1969

Not even six degrees separate this venerated eatery from 14 Grand Slam title-winning tennis champion Pete Sampras. His father was one of three partners who 55 years ago bought the Jewish deli that would become McLean Family Restaurant, a local institution.

“The three owners were my uncles,” explains Peter Kapetanakis, now the diner’s general manager. “They came from Greece in the ’60s, worked in different restaurants and bought the place in 1969, running it as a deli for 10 years before turning it into a restaurant in 1980.”

In 1978, Kapetanakis’ brother, George, who lives in McLean, bought out Sampras’ parents’ shares. He acquired the remaining shares in 1991 and is now the restaurant’s sole owner.

Outfitted with plain booths and pictures of Greek islands and local landmarks dotting the walls, the 100-seat eatery serves breakfast daily until 3 p.m. On weekend mornings, the place is packed with locals digging into eggs Benedict, pancakes, Belgian waffles and skillets. Lunch and dinner bring usual diner favorites like club sandwiches and hot roast beef or turkey with mashed potatoes and gravy, plus tuna melts, steakand-cheese subs and Reubens.

Given the restaurant’s pedigree and the fact that its chef is Greek, it’s no surprise the menu also features Greek specialties such as moussaka, gyros, souvlaki, stuffed grape leaves, spanakopita and baklava. “We go through gallons of avgolemono soup every day,” Kapetanakis says.

The diner’s location in the Salona Village shopping center makes it a popular gathering spot for IT workers and defense contractors, as well as Pentagon and CIA employees. Politicos spotted at its homey tables include Terry McAuliffe, Patrick Leahy and Gov. Glenn Youngkin. // 1321 Chain Bridge Road, McLean; themcleanfamily restaurant.com

MICHAEL VENTURA

George Kapetanakis with his kids, Constance and Nick

Kazan Restaurant

Open since 1980

“I’ve been here [almost] 45 years,” says Zeynel Abidin Uzun, the 69-year-old chef and owner of this longstanding

Turkish restaurant in McLean. “I’m here every day, or my son or my daughter [is]. If we do 100 dinners, 99% of them are for regulars.”

They come for the warm welcome and to feast on house specialties like

beef or cheese boregi (filled cigarshaped pastries); braised lamb shank with eggplant and rice pilaf; levrek (grilled branzino flown in from Turkey); and, on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, doner kebab—tender slices of rotisserie veal and lamb piled onto pita rounds and slathered with yogurt sauce.

Uzun was a chef during his military service in Turkey, where he was recruited to cook for then-president Fahri Korutürk at Topkapi Palace in Ankara. After an 18-month stint, he worked for Sheraton Hotels and then joined Royal Caribbean cruise lines, which brought him to the States in 1976. Two years later, he became chef at Nizam’s Restaurant in Vienna (now closed), whose owner sponsored Uzun for his green card.

Kazan, which seats 100 inside and 35 outside, opened in 1980 to a rave review from Phyllis Richman, then The Washington Post ’s food critic. (A kazan is a cauldron-like cooking vessel.) The 2,900-square-foot restaurant still occupies in its original location, having undergone three renovations. The décor, with its simple blue tablecloths, intricately patterned porcelain and walls hung with Turkish tapestries, is charming.

Uzun lives close by in McLean. “It’s a very cosmopolitan area,” he says, “with lots of State Department people, Langley [the CIA] and people familiar with Turkey.” He delights in rattling off the names of luminaries he’s served through the years. Nancy Reagan once ordered his orange baklava for a state dinner. Others who have come to dine at the restaurant include Katharine Graham, Kenneth Starr, Newt Gingrich and nine Turkish ambassadors, not to mention retired Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy. “I once put four senators at one table,” Uzun says. “Two Republicans and two Democrats. Back then, everyone got along.”

// 6813 Redmond Drive, McLean; kazan restaurant.com

MICHAEL VENTURA

From left: Zeynel, John and Ayhan (Zeynel’s brother) Uzun

Panjshir

Open since 1985

At Panjshir, the Falls Church restaurant Aziz Niazy opened in 1985 (it moved from its original location on West Broad Street to the Southgate Village Shoppes in 2017), lamb lovers have it made. The aroma of cinnamon, cardamom and cloves signals the arrival of Afghanistan’s national dish, quabili palow, a rib-sticking lamb stew (also available with chicken or beef) combined with basmati pilaf flecked with shredded carrots, raisins and almonds. Other tempting offerings include lamb kebab; braised lamb shank with rosemary and garlic; and the bestselling kadu chalow, a vibrant stew of braised pumpkin and lamb in tomato sauce, flavored with Kashmiri masala, a paprikabased spice mix. (A vegetarian version is also available.)

Niazy emigrated to Arlington from his native Kabul in 1975 with a couple hundred dollars in his pocket, joining two brothers who already lived here. “He started working in restaurants, saved his money, got his visa and then ours,” says his son Esmat, 54, who lives in Falls Church. “My mother, brother, three sisters and I came over in 1979.”

Today, Esmat is Panjshir’s sole owner. He took over the business in 2004 when his father, now in his 90s, retired and passed the cooking duties to Esmat’s sister Maria.

The restaurant, Esmat explains, is named after Afghanistan’s Panjshir Province. His father chose it as a statement of national pride during the Russian occupation of his homeland. “It was a time when Ahmad Shah Massoud, the freedom fighter who was called ‘The Lion of Panjshir,’ was in the news.”

The 1,700-square-foot dining room, which seats 63, is festooned with woven

Afghan textiles, heirloom muskets and ornate mirrors. Kites, an important part of Afghan culture, hang from the ceiling. (The Taliban outlawed kite flying in 1996.)

Though the menu hasn’t changed much over 39 years, the kitchen has added beef and chicken options for meat-eaters who don’t want lamb. (The choices already include the many vegetarian stews that are central to Afghan cuisine). Kadu chalow still accounts for 60% of sales. “That’s what keeps our doors open,” Esmat says. // 114 E. Fairfax St., Falls Church; panjshirrestaurant.com

STOCK (FRAMAE); ALL OTHERS COURTESY PHOTOS

Top: Esmat Niazy with his son Anoosh and sister Maria. Below: Aush (Afghan noodle soup)

Nam Viet

Open since 1986

“We are the last remnant of the Little Saigon area,” Richard Nguyen says of the landmark Vietnamese restaurant his parents, Nguyen Van Thoi and chef Ngoc Anh Tran (known as “Mrs. Thoi”), opened in Clarendon in 1986—back when the neighborhood held a large concentration of refugees from wartorn Vietnam.

“Our building still looks the same while everywhere around us has been upgraded,” he remarks. Most of the Vietnamese businesses that formed the fabric of Clarendon’s diaspora in the ’80s decamped to the Eden Center and Annandale as Arlington rents increased.

The family’s immigration story is dramatic. After Saigon fell in April 1975, Nguyen Van Thoi spent two years in a re-education camp before he managed to negotiate a ransom for his release. He and his wife fled Vietnam on a fishing boat with their two oldest children, somehow evading North Vietnamese patrols and finding their way to Thailand. Catholic Charities facilitated the family’s move to Arlington, where they opened a 15-seat restaurant called My-An on North Highland Street in 1984. It closed two years later when they debuted Nam Viet. A second location of Nam Viet closed in D.C.’s Cleveland Park neighborhood in 2017 after a 20-year run.

Today, Richard, 39, runs the 80-seat restaurant, but the kitchen is still his

mother’s domain. (His dad died in 2005.) “She helps out on a daily basis and oversees every herb, seasoning and vegetable,” he says.

The biggest sellers, by far, are crispy rice-paper spring rolls stuffed with pork, chicken, crabmeat, carrots, onions and vermicelli noodles. Back when the family still owned two restaurants, “we’d roll 10,000 a week between the two locations,” Richard says. Now they’re down to one kitchen, but the spring roll quantities haven’t changed. “People still travel near and far for them.”

Other fan favorites include phô, grilled lemongrass pork and chicken, and deep-fried spareribs with garlic and chilies. // 1127 N. Hudson St., Arlington; namvietva.com

Co-founder Nguyen Van Thoi at Nam Viet around 1989

Metro 29 Diner

Open since 1995

Metro 29 is a delicious slice of nostalgia—an Art Deco railcar-style diner gleaming with chrome and glass bricks. Half of the 12,000-square-foot space is devoted to a lower-level bakery that turns out the heaping meringue pies, strawberry-topped cheesecakes and generously frosted chocolate cakes that fill a glass display case behind the Formica-topped counter. “We make all of our cakes, cookies, muffins and Danish pastries, plus the challah we use for our French toast,” says co-owner Peter Bota, who opened the eatery with business partner John Kanellias in 1995. “We bake six days a week.”

That challah French toast figured prominently in a 2010 episode of Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives , a Food Network television show that still streams every once in a while. “It aired the Friday after Thanksgiving and the bump we got was incredible,” Bota says. “People in McLean and Falls Church discovered us and we had lines out the door, like at the grand opening.”

Bota, now 60, and Kanellias, 68, both had early experience in the restaurant business. In college, Bota worked at a cousin’s Brooklyn diner; Kanellias at his brother-in-law’s diner on Long Island.

They were visiting friends in Northern Virginia when they noticed a dearth of New York-style diners and ended up purchasing the property near the corner of Glebe Road and Langston Boulevard. “We asked [ourselves] what we would need to do to break even and far exceeded that from day one,” Bota says. He’s on the floor of the 210-seat dining room most days, while Kanellias is in the kitchen cooking or expediting.

Like any good diner, Metro 29 offers burgers, club sandwiches, chef salads, broiled pork chops and the like—but breakfast is the big draw, be it Belgian

waffles, a swath of crispy corned beef hash with two eggs any style, lox and bagels, a stack of silver dollar griddle

cakes or a pancake shaped like Donald Duck or Mickey Mouse. // 4711 Langston Blvd., Arlington; www.metro29diner.com

Breakfast at Metro 29 Diner

Peking Gourmet Inn

Open since 1978

It’s practically a rite of passage for anyone who claims DMV provenance to visit this Falls Church strip mall destination for its renowned specialty, Peking duck. The restaurant has been sourcing poultry from Joe Jurgielewicz & Son’s farm in Pennsylvania for 46 years and serves more than 80,000 ducks annually. It’s mesmerizing to watch a carver dressed in a crisp white shirt, apron and bow tie take a cleaver to a bird tableside, deftly removing the crispy skin and slicing the rosy flesh into bitesize pieces. Using spoons and legerdemain, the server presents diners with their first thin pancake, rolled up with duck skin, meat, cucumbers, scallions and hoisin sauce, leaving them to carry on with the remainder.

Today, George Tsui, 73, reigns over the 9,000-square-foot, 325-seat restaurant that was passed to him by his father, Eddie, who retired in 1996 and died in 1998.

Eddie Tsui, a native of Shandong, China, was a Hong Kong restaurateur who immigrated to the U.S. in 1969, originally settling in Bethesda. He later moved to Virginia when alcohol laws changed to allow restaurants to sell liquor. He was proprietor of Arlington’s South Pacific Restaurant (now closed) before opening Peking Gourmet Inn, which serves mostly Northern Chinese cuisine.

George lives in Purcellville near the 145-acre farm his father purchased 40 years ago to cut out the middleman in the supply chain. The farm grows specialty produce—namely garlic chives and spring onions—exclusively for the family business.

The dining room at Peking Gourmet Inn features red and gold patterned carpet, high-back red leather dining chairs, fringed Chinese lanterns and walls chockablock with photos of the famous folks—politicians, movie stars, sports figures—who’ve dined there. Chief among them is George H. W. Bush, whose son Marvin turned him on to the place when he was vice president. (George Tsui can still recite 41’s regular menu picks by heart: Sichuan beef, salt-and-pepper shrimp, Peking duck, stir-fried green beans, and garlic sprouts with pork, shrimp or chicken.)

Also worth a taste: bok choy with shiitake mushrooms; stir-fried pea shoots; sea bass with black bean sauce; and crispy Peking-style lamb chops stir-fried with black pepper, ginger, onion, soy sauce and sherry. // 6029 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church; peking gourmet.com

Tableside carving at Peking Gourmet Inn SCOTT SUCHMAN

desserts. anthonysrestaurantva.com

Bob & Edith’s Diner

Known for its classic diner fare, the Arlington institution that opened on Columbia Pike in 1969 now has six Virginia locations, most of which are open 24 hours. bobandedithsdiner.com

Carlyle

Anchoring the Village at Shirlington since 1986, this new American bistro is the OG of Great American Restaurants’ local empire. carlyleva.com

Crystal Thai

The kitchen of this homey eatery in the Arlington Forest Shopping Center has been turning out traditional Thai curries and noodle dishes since 1990.

Duangrat’s Ed and Pookie Duangrat’s Bailey’s Crossroads business started in 1981 as a Thai grocery store and later became a DMV destination for elegant Thai cuisine. The second floor is now home to One Night in Bangkok, a streetfood eatery with a retro ’80s vibe. duangrats.com

El Pollo Rico

Opened in 1998 in Virginia Square, the legendary Peruvian chicken joint was featured in a 2009 episode of Anthony Bourdain’s No Reservations on The Travel Channel. elpollorico.com

piccata, lasagne and veal ragu since 1972. pistoneitalianinn.com

Quarterdeck

Maryland steamed crabs are the main attraction at this circa 1979 seafood spot in Fort Myer Heights. quarterdeckarlington.com

Rocco’s Italian

Since 1977, this McLean trattoria has been serving hearty portions of chicken parm, spaghetti with red sauce and other family recipes alongside carafes of chianti. roccositalian.com

Rocklands Barbeque and Grilling Co.

Pitmaster John Snedden launched his first barbecue joint in D.C.’s Glover Park in 1990. The Arlington outpost on Washington Boulevard has been a go-to for smoked ribs, chicken, pulled pork and brisket since 2007. rocklands.com

Two Chefs Pizza

A family-owned Greek diner serving pizza, breakfast, subs and souvlaki in Arlington’s Bluemont neighborhood since 1984. 2chefspizza.com

Weenie Beenie

Seemingly trapped in time, this onetime drive-in near Shirlington has been dishing up hot dogs, half smokes, breakfast and barbecue since 1954. Foo Fighters frontman and NoVA native Dave Grohl named a song after it. weeniebeenie.net

Crystal City Sports Pub

Open since 1994

Thirty years ago, three friends and college classmates from Mount St. Mary’s University in Maryland decided to open a sports bar. The owner of a hardware store on Crystal City’s 23rd Street was closing up shop and asked the trio—Bill Bayne, Art Dougherty and Jim Madden— if they wanted to take over the lease. They jumped at the chance. Bayne already owned a nearby strip club (the Crystal City Restaurant and Gentlemen’s Club, which had started out as Arlington Luncheon when his father opened it in 1963), so the location just up the street was hard to beat.

STOCK (SPOON); MICHAEL VENTURA (PORTRAIT)

After opening the Crystal City Sports Pub in 1996, the owners continued to rent until 2003. That’s when they bought the 4,000-square-foot property, put on an addition and acquired the space next door, doubling the size of their establishment. “Twelve years later, we popped in a third floor with lots of TVs and made a private smoking lounge,” says Dougherty, who lives in the neighborhood. “[Rudy] Giuliani and the president of Bosnia would go in there.” The bar seats 250.

Pretty much every bit of wall space is covered with sports gear, photos and memorabilia, most of it drawn from the collection of Arlington resident and entrepreneur Michael O’Harro, who opened the first Champions Sports Bar in Georgetown in 1983. On prominent

display is the iconic and now-vintage (circa 1979) “Poverty Sucks” poster that features O’Harro standing next to a Bentley wearing jodhpurs and holding a glass of Champagne.

The pub is open 365 days a year from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m., even in severe weather. “We bought generators in case of power loss,” Dougherty says. The formula is simple: pool tables; good quality food, such as burgers, crabcakes, filet mignon and chicken wings; and plenty of TV screens tuned to sporting events.

The owners are active in the community, whether they’re hosting a spaghetti dinner fundraiser for kids aiming to visit the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, N.Y., or sponsoring a local sports team.

Covid was hard on the bar. “The debt load was a mess—$50,000 a month. Things got ugly real quick,” Dougherty says. A PPP loan and money they’d been saving with hopes of becoming a sports betting destination held them over.

Other challenges remain. “Crystal City was decimated by BRAC,” Dougherty says, referencing the U.S. military’s Base Realignment and Closure effort from 2005 to 2015, which prompted an exodus of the DOD agencies and contractors that provided a steady stream of clientele. Now add the post-pandemic work-from-home trend. “There is a lot of empty office space,” he says. // 529 23rd St. S., Arlington; ccsportspub.com ■

David Hagedorn

is Arlington Magazine’s food critic.

From left: Crystal City Sports Pub owners Jim Madden, Art Dougherty and Bill Bayne

Today’s cocktails are part art and part science. Sample what’s fresh and new in the wonderful world of mixology.

TBY JESSICA STRELITZ

he cocktail landscape is on fire. While the speakeasy resurgence continues to send booze connoisseurs into dark, moody spaces to brood over Prohibition Era sidecars and gin rickeys, other post-Covid drinking destinations are looking decidedly lighter, brighter and more like a party—even for teetotalers.

Bartenders are bringing seasonal herbs and produce to their creations, making syrups and cold-pressing juices as part of service, and they’re having fun with the names of the concoctions they dream up. (Case in point: There’s Always Money in the Banana Stand, a tikistyle quaff at the recently opened Makers Union pub in National Landing that references the sitcom Arrested Development, as well as Amazon’s much-ballyhooed free banana stand in Metropolitan Park.)

Brown liquors arguably remain king of the glass, but these days the whiskeys on offer may have roots in Japan, India or Virginia, and not just Kentucky. Tequila and its smoky sibling, mezcal, are finding their way into creative quenchers with nary a lime or salt rim in sight. And some of the most popular drinks served in highball glasses contain no alcohol at all. Pull up a barstool and explore the latest trends in liquid cuisine.

At Salt in Rosslyn, beverage director Paul Williams mixes a fiery concoction called Mo Fi-Ya.

Chef-y Recipes

Today’s cocktails are a marriage of bar and kitchen. At Surreal in National Landing, beverage director Carlos Boada has created signature libations with complex flavors designed to complement chef Enrique Limardo’s globally influenced food menu. Some drinks involve up to a dozen ingredients, including mixers and seasonings prepared daily—like lemons fermented with spices, which are then dehydrated and grated to top off drinks such as Cherry Whispers in Time, Boada’s variation of a Negroni sour.

For the Time-Traveler’s Tipple, Surreal’s take on the old-fashioned, Boada embraces his favorite childhood cereal, steeping Legent bourbon in cornflakes and house-made granola for about 30

hours before it is strained and poured over ice with aromatic bitters.

Anthony Sankar, general manager and co-owner of Spice Kraft Indian Bistro in Clarendon and Del Ray, is a bartender by training. But like a good chef, he is hardwired to avoid food waste in the same way that a resourceful toque will parlay butchered bones into stock, and stale bread into croutons. Rather than dumping the blueberry puree that is a byproduct of the house-made blueberry syrup in Spice Kraft’s gin-based Chutney Berry-Licious martini, he repurposes it into a fruit leather for a snazzy garnish on other drinks.

At Salt, a Best of Arlington-winning cocktail bar in Rosslyn, the beverage staff have commandeered the sous-vide machine—a culinary tool once known

only to high-end chefs—to create infusions such as the Del Maguey mezcal infused with charred pineapple that serves as the backbone for the bar’s signature Mo Fi-Ya cocktail.

Bartending as Theater

Speaking of Salt’s Mo Fi-Ya cocktail— its creation is a spectacle. To assemble the sultry drink, the bartender lights green Chartreuse on fire, shakes cinnamon on top of the flame and then extinguishes the blaze by dousing it with Cointreau, spiced honey and fresh lime. The mixology itself is performance art.

“We focus so much on the guest experience that the drinks have to deliver,” says Paul Williams, beverage program director for Salt’s parent company, Metropolitan Hospitality Group,

ANTHONY SANKAR

The Chutney Berry-Licious martini at Spice Kraft

whose restaurant concepts also include Circa, Open Road and Trio Grill.

Gone are the days when garnishes were limited to sliced lemons, limes, olives and jarred maraschino cherries. Now the accoutrements include everything from dehydrated citrus wheels to edible flowers, and blowtorches and smoking cloches are popular tools.

At SER in Ballston, colorful trays of fresh fruit are frozen into pretty ice cubes that turn the Spanish restaurant’s popular sangria—made with proprietor Javier Candon’s house-infused brandy—into works of art. The ice cube is presented in an empty glass, and the server pours the sangria over it with finesse (applause welcome).

Specialty Spirits

“When [people] go out they want something they can’t get at home,” says Nick Farrell, spirits manager for Neighborhood Restaurant Group, whose properties include B Side in the Mosaic District, Evening Star in Alexandria and Iron Gate in D.C., among others. The expectation is something more elevated than the standard G&T or bourbon and ginger they can easily make on their own.

Though restaurants in the commonwealth can only buy hard liquor from the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority (ABC), which limits the availability of certain spirits, beverage directors are hustling to distinguish their offerings within that framework.

Greg DeFlorio, who oversees the bar program at Ballston Local, regularly submits lottery entries for rare whiskeys—a habit that has made his bar a destination for enthusiasts seeking the newest small batch release of, say, Basil Hayden Dark Rye or Blanton’s single barrel bourbon.

Spice Kraft goes the extra mile to stock three special-ordered Indian spirits, including Indri Whisky, which has garnered global awards.

The oval bar at Wren, an upscale izakaya tucked inside the 11th-floor lobby

Carlos Boada is beverage director for Seven Reasons Group, including Surreal in National Landing.

of the Watermark Hotel in Tysons, boasts dozens of American and Japanese whiskeys, courtesy of cultivated relationships with Suntory, maker of Hibiki and Yamazaki whisky, as well as the cult Legent’s collaboration with Jim Beam. (Discerning aficionados should take time to peruse the restaurant’s leather-bound bottle guide and ask the bar staff about their selection of “off book” spirits.) Watch for a classic martini cart to roll into Wren’s dining room later in 2024.

Agave Rising

Tequila—smoky mezcal in particular— is having a moment, finding its way into quaffs that extend far beyond the

standard-bearing margaritas at Mexican cantinas. At Nue, an elegant destination for Viet cuisine in Falls Church’s Founders Row, the two agave spirits join forces in one of the Elemental Dragon cocktails designed in celebration of this year’s zodiac sign. The Fire Dragon, made with mezcal, silver tequila, pomegranate and prickly pear juice, comes adorned with a miniature red envelope, evoking the Vietnamese “Li xi” tradition of giving money to children for luck in the new year. The envelope is set aflame upon being served. (Pyromania is clearly a bar trend, so watch your hair.)

Wren blends its house-infused strawberry mezcal with Cynar, an Italian amaro whose bitterness comes from

artichokes, plus herbaceous St-Germain elderflower liqueur and coffee bitters for a bracing elixir called Arsenic and Old Lace.

At Ellie Bird, Yuan and Carey Tang’s acclaimed newcomer to the City of Falls

DEB LINDSEY (TOP); GREG POWERS (BOTTOM)

Wren in Tysons (here and below) offers a smoked cocktail for two called the French Dispatch

Church (the couple also owns Michelinstarred Rooster & Owl in D.C.), Del Maguey mezcal gets an Asian twist, joining gochujang, grapefruit and rice wine vinegar in a heady potion called Spice Up Your Life.

Hold the Alcohol

Most restaurants and bars now offer low- or zero-proof cocktails, but they’re more than dressed-up Shirley Temples. These drinkable and drivable beverages are often priced on par with alcoholic drinks, and for good reason. The ingredients—including zero-proof spirits that omit the booze but maintain their flavor profile with higher concentrations of botanicals—are artisanal. And bartenders aren’t skimping on quality or time to make these drinks just as pleasing as their fully leaded brethren.

At Spice Kraft, the sweetness of the mango puree in the Zero Proof Mango

Mule is a nice counterbalance to some of the menu’s more fiery dishes. SER’s nonalcoholic but no less chichi Major Negroni is composed of Ritual zeroproof whiskey, turmeric and orange, and finished with cinnamon smoke.

At Yayla Bistro, a Turkish Mediterranean restaurant in Arlington’s East Falls Church neighborhood, the introduction of mocktails such as a passion fruit mule, a virgin raspberry mojito and a signature sweet tea with muddled mint helped boost beverage sales to record levels post-pandemic, according to co-owner Mutlu Kaya.

Behold the Zeitgeist

Love it or hate it, social media is fueling cocktail trends in the same way that the hit TV show Sex and the City made cosmopolitans all the rage in the late ’90s. The espresso martini has roared back as a popular order of late, thanks

to Instagram and TikTok influencers touting its sweet and buzzy blend of caffeine, sugar and booze.

Ballston Local uses Philadelphiabased La Colombe brewed espresso to make a syrup with a touch of cinnamon for its rendition of this intoxicating dessert in a glass. At Nue, the cold brewbased Cà Phê (Vietnamese coffee) martini gets honey, vanilla and anise notes from Galliano liqueur.

Though some barkeeps privately cringe at whatever the fad du jour may be, they still keep tabs on trending hashtags (and stock their bars accordingly) so as not to be thrown off when a crowd comes in and everyone requests a round of Negroni Sbagliatos (a summery quencher made with Campari, sweet vermouth and sparkling wine).

“We were ready with sweet vermouth and Aperol” when [that trend] went viral in 2023, says Neighborhood Res-

Madison McAllister, a bartender at Ballston Local

taurant Group spirits manager Farrell. “We didn’t put it on the menu, but we were ready to be a part of it.”

Some upscale watering holes workshop ideas for new cocktails as a team. The bartenders at Salt submit menu ideas to management and everyone discusses what will be added next. Salt’s mixologists also keep things fresh and experimental with a weekly creation called I’m the Captain Now (“Captain” for short) that is essentially the bar equivalent of a chef’s special—a great way to test-market a new recipe.

The cocktail menu is also a fun way for a restaurant to build rapport with its regulars. SER’s Conference Room 1, a pisco-based libation made with muddled raspberries, is a nod to its corporate neighbors who occupy the upper floors of the same building. The name of the drink is code for the restaurant itself, a term coined by workers who need a stiff one after a long day at the office.

Drink Local

Some bars, in an effort to differentiate themselves, tout rare spirits and exotic ingredients from around the globe. Others are embracing the locavore movement and appealing to imbibers to support local and regional producers. Last year, Metropolitan Hospitality Group opened its own distillery in Reston, where it makes the Open Road gin, rye, bourbon and vodka served in its restaurants. (When you control your

sourcing, you also control the flavor profile from the start.)

One of B Side’s more popular cocktails, the Corduroy Spritz, combines Troddenvale Forager Cider from Warm Springs, Virginia, with Aperol, cherry cordial and red vermouth.

Surreal stocks Catoctin Creek Watershed gin, made in Purcellville, and uses a Virginia maple syrup in Maple Dreams, a house take on the espresso martini.

Want a nightcap? You can order the drink to go and take a walk around National Landing’s Water Park—one of the many designated “sip and stroll” zones throughout Northern Virginia that now allow drinkers of legal age to roam shopping and entertainment districts with alcoholic beverages in tow. ■

Jessica Strelitz is a Falls Church-based writer focused on food, drinks and travel. Find her at @jstrelitz on Instagram and jessicastrelitz.com.

There’s Always Money in the Banana Stand at Makers Union

Fresh oysters at Water Bar in National Landing

Sun’s

OUT

’Tis the season to eat and drink al fresco.

Put these outdoor dining spots on your fun list.

BY JENNY SULLIVAN

Warmer weather is a time for slowing your roll, dining outdoors and savoring the bounty of the season, from locally grown produce to Chesapeake Bay seafood. Here are some happy places to visit as spring unfolds into summer.

SCOTT SUCHMAN

Coco B’s

The Caribbean vibes are legit at this party zone awash in pink, palm fronds and neon. Clarendon resident Christal Bramson, who owns the place with her husband, Mike (they are also the power couple behind adjoining music bar B Live), is half Jamaican. Dig into an order of braised oxtail patties; jerk chicken with yucca fries; or sushi and poke bowls courtesy of sister concept Roll’d. The sunny rooftop is outfitted with pink parasol umbrellas, a thatched-roof tiki bar and a flamingo wall mural by local artists Rodrigo Pradel and Mike Pacheco. Celebrate being out with a rum punch, a frozen piña colada or the Aku Aku Sunset (vodka, orgeat, lemon-lime cordial and pomegranate-hibiscus syrup).

// 2854 Wilson Blvd., Arlington (Clarendon), lovecocobs.com

Ometeo

The Tex-Mex at this Tysons newcomer leans a little more coastal and upscale than the usual cantina fare, with options such as lobster tostadas, seafood towers, Hamachi aguachile and (natch) fish tacos on house-made tortillas. New England meets Mexico in the Stuffie “Tamal,” a riff on the popular baked clams at sister restaurant The Salt Line, which in this case are packed with quahog clams, heirloom corn, chorizo verde and Manchego. Ometeo’s covered outdoor bar clad in Mexican tiles is a breezy, inviting spot to kick back with a guava margarita, a classic Paloma or an Elote Old Fashioned made with corn-infused whiskey, reposado tequila, corn stock syrup and chocolate bitters.

// 1640 Capital One Drive N., Tysons, ometeotexmex.com

ALBERT TING (COCO B’S); AN-PHUONG LY (OMETEO)

Stuffie “Tamal” stuffed clams at Ometeo

The rooftop at Coco B’s

For a sweet indulgence that tastes like summer camp, it’s hard to beat the chewy, melty campfire cookies at chef-owner Matt Hill’s award-winning Southern café, where homey jars of pickled vegetables line the takeout counter and the chatty side patio is almost always packed. (Dogs are welcome.) Making clever use of the same wood grill that turns out savory mains such as wood-fired bran-

zino and hanger steak with corn succotash, the chef smokes the butter for his Toll House-style dough, giving it a kiss of campfire flavor. The cookies are served warm with a scoop of ice cream on top. And if fruit is more your jam, summer also brings peach cobbler. No one will judge if you eat dessert first. // 3411 Fifth St. S., Arlington (Arlington Heights), ruthiesallday.com

Ruthie’s All-Day

Campfire cookies at Ruthie’s All-Day

Water Bar

Love the idea of sitting by the water? This open-air cocktail and raw bar anchoring Water Park at National Landing is surrounded by lush landscaping and glimmering H2O. Grab a seat overlooking the infinity fountain and pair a plate of regional oysters with a glass of crisp rosé or a cucumber martini. The succinct menu also includes cevi-

che, salads, smoked trout crostini, fried calamari, a Chesapeake crab roll and po’boy sandwiches. Release your worries and sip on a Chet Baker (Panamanian and pineapple rum, honey, bitters) or a Strawberry Sunset (vodka, aperol, Finochietto cordial, strawberry, coconut and mint). // 1601 Crystal Drive, Arlington (National Landing), nlwaterbar.com

The open-air Water Bar at National Landing’s Water Park

SCOTT SUCHMAN

It’s always beach season at this perennially popular Little City hangout. T-shirts and flip-flops are standard attire for patrons listening to live music (check the website for the band schedule) over baskets of fried gator and shrimp, grapefruit crushes and slices of the fan-favorite Key lime pie. Sibling owners David and Rebecca Tax have imported the laid-back spirit of their native Florida with coastal eats, frozen drinks— watermelon coladas, rum runners—and a cacophony of vacation-y décor, including surfboards, buoys, crab traps and palm trees. The only thing missing is sand. Watch for a revamped patio with a new outdoor soundstage in late spring. // 130 N. Washington St., Falls Church, clareanddons.com

Clare & Don’s Sloppy Mama’s

Warm weather heralds the arrival of barbecue season. If you’re not one for sweating over hot coals, let Joe and Mandy Neuman’s roadside ’cue joint do the cooking for you. The family operation’s wood smokers— which are named Waylon and Merle— burn 12 hours a day, turning out a carnivorous bounty of ribs, pork, brisket, turkey, chicken and sausages (plus vegan jackfruit for meatless eaters) and occasional specials like pit beef and prime rib. Add a few sides (cornbread, collards, mac ’n’ cheese) and you’ve got yourself a party. Find a sunny seat at one of the outdoor tables or take your feast to go. The restaurant sells its signature barbecue rubs and sauces on site and at Whole Foods. // 5731 Langston Blvd., Arlington, sloppy mamas.com

Sloppy Mama’s ribs

Frozen drinks at Clare & Don’s in Falls Church

SCOTT SUCHMAN (BBQ); J. MICHAEL WHALEN (CLARE & DON’S)

Hawkers

Asian Street Food

Founded by restaurateurs with family roots in Malaysia, Hong Kong and Vietnam, this amped-up concept out of Orlando is all about Asian street foods—from dumplings, skewers, summer rolls and tofu bites to eight kinds of noodles. During weekday happy hours (3-6 p.m.), the vibrant patio and indoor-outdoor bar are hopping with a vibe-y playlist, firepits, half-off beers and bao buns, and discounts on spirits and small plates. Pair your grub of choice with a local craft brew, a refreshing yuzu spritz or one of 10 featured sakes. Looking to take the festivities elsewhere? The Ballston eatery also has a walk-up takeout window.

// 4201 Wilson Blvd., Arlington (Ballston), eathawkers.com ■

Kreole

If tackling a pile of steamed crabs on a table covered in butcher paper is your idea of a good time, visit this “Dirty South meets the Far East” seafood joint in the Mosaic District to eat your fill of that crusted crustacean. Or, dig into a seafood boil featuring shrimp, snow crab and clams with potatoes, corn and sausage. Averse to dirty fingernails? Chef Chad Sparrow’s menu also includes a bonanza of fork-friendly options, including fresh catch with your choice of sauces blending Creole and Asian flavors. (Bonus: You can calibrate the spice level to your liking.) For a light snack and some prime people-watching, snag one of the sidewalk tables and order a soju cocktail with a plate of Korean raw crab with gochujang.

// 2985 District Ave., Fairfax (Mosaic District), kreoleseafood.com

Jenny Sullivan, editor of Arlington Magazine, is happiest in a house or restaurant with a crowded table.

The colorful patio at Hawkers in Ballston

Steamed crabs and charbroiled oysters at Kreole

Capital Caring Health

Since 1977, Capital Caring Health has been the Washington Metropolitan area’s largest nonprofit hospice and advanced illness care provider. A leader in the national hospice movement, serving more than 1,100 patients each day, Capital Caring Health proudly provides over $3 million in annual charitable care and grief support at no cost to those in need. 3180

Q: What makes your patient experience unique?

A: Capital Caring Health provides families with more than outstanding clinical care. Our dedicated hospice team includes social workers, pastoral counselors, bereavement counselors and volunteers. Through ongoing communication, visits and check-in calls, Capital Caring Health’s interdisciplinary team members use their time to get to know the patients, caregivers and families to manage symptoms and offer support throughout the end-of-life journey and beyond. Families can also reach Capital Caring Health’s expert team anytime through our 24-Hour Care Line at (800) 869-2136.

Q: What is your approach to care?

A: Capital Caring Health’s holistic, patientcentered approach targets physical, psychological, social and spiritual needs to reduce pain and improve quality of life. Our team focuses on the goals of each

patient and their family, from providing care wherever the patient calls home to understanding what matters most for their remaining time together.

Q: What is one thing prospective patients and families should know about Capital Caring Health?

A: We offer a wide range of programs, including palliative care and primary care at home, well before a patient might need hospice care. Capital Caring Health also provides grief counseling services at no cost to those in our service area dealing with loss. Additionally, Capital Caring Health is the only hospice provider in the Greater Washington region to offer inpatient centers for individuals needing 24/7 care.

Many people wish they had come to us sooner as they discovered the impact of Capital Caring Health’s hospice and advanced illness care in supporting the patient and the entire family.

Vinson Hall Retirement Community

CARL AND LYNNE SCHONE, RESIDENTS

Independent living at Vinson Hall Retirement Community (VHRC) now welcomes military, government and civilian families. Our foundation of service fosters a community of accomplished, educated and well-traveled residents. The maintenancefree VHRC lifestyle replaces household chores with activities and friendships, invigorating your zest for life.

6251 Old Dominion Drive McLean, VA 22101 703-536-4344

www.vinsonhall.org

Q: What advice would you offer someone who is deciding if they’re ready to move into a retirement community?

A: Lynn Schone: Moving into a retirement community can be a significant life change. Consider that moving while you’re still active and independent helps facilitate a smoother transition.

Carl Schone: If you think the retirement community lifestyle is right for you, don’t let the fear of downsizing—and having to part ways with some of your treasured belongings—stand in the way. It’s not going to get any easier with time. And you really want to move in while you can still take full advantage of all the great amenities, activities and events available to you in a community like Vinson Hall Retirement Community.

Q: How has living at Vinson Hall Retirement Community changed your life for the better?

A: LS: I think COVID-19 taught us all that just sitting at home and watching TV all day is the worst thing you can do for your body and brain. When we moved in, we committed ourselves to getting involved in the community and, in doing so, met so many like-minded people from similar backgrounds. They immediately made us feel at home. Here, our days are filled with endless opportunities to stay active and keep our minds sharp.

CS: Getting older and entering a retirement community doesn’t mean you stop evolving. We never would’ve described ourselves as outgoing, but this community has changed how I relate to others. Whenever we are away for a while, I come back hungry for the interpersonal relationships we’ve built.

LISA HELFERT

Woodleigh Chase

Live your best life at Woodleigh Chase, a thriving 62+ community in Fairfax, Virginia. Enjoy maintenance-free living in a beautiful, modern apartment with resort-style amenities, and benefit from the convenience of an on-campus medical center with full-time doctors. Woodleigh Chase is managed by Erickson Senior Living, a national leader in senior living and health care.

9805 Woodleigh Lane Fairfax, VA 22032

1-888-377-2032

www.WoodleighChase.com

Q: What makes Woodleigh Chase stand out among other retirement communities?

A: Woodleigh Chase is a premier senior living community in the heart of Fairfax. Conveniently located just three miles from George Mason University and close to a wide selection of desirable shopping, dining and entertainment, we also offer easy access to the capital region’s many cultural and recreational activities. At Woodleigh Chase, residents gain so much more than a spacious, stylish, maintenancefree apartment home. They become part of a vibrant retirement community on 42 beautiful acres packed with resort-style amenities—including a pristine state-ofthe-art fitness and aquatics center, bocce court, dog park, walking paths, and a fullservice salon and barbershop—activities and services designed to help seniors thrive. Our campus also features multiple

restaurants that provide their own unique ambiance and plenty of common spaces for learning, exploring hobbies and socializing. Just steps from your door, our on-site medical center offers a full range of health and well-being services, and security staff trained in emergency response are just moments away.

Q: What living options are available?

A: Residents can choose from various stylish, open-plan apartment homes— lavish one- and two-bedroom floor plans with abundant square footage—that suit every need and budget. Features include screened patios and balconies, stainless-steel appliances, quartz countertops, crown molding, soft close cabinetry, double vanities in most primary bathrooms, luxury vinyl plank flooring, fullsize washer and dryer, and under-building parking. All utilities, including Wi-Fi, cable and telephone, are covered.

Avalon House

Founded in 1997 as an affordable alternative to larger, more institutional memory care facilities, Avalon House has grown to 11 eight-resident homes in the McLean/Falls Church area. Its many five-star reviews speak to its unwavering dedication to enhancing the quality of life for residents and their families through compassionate and personalized comprehensive memory care services.

1453 Laburnum St.

McLean, VA 22101

301-656-8823

www.avalonresidentialliving.com

Q: Why choose Avalon House?

A: We specialize in providing personalized, compassionate care in a small, home-like environment for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of memory impairment.

Our homes have a 1:4 staff-to-resident ratio—1:1 for the first three days free of charge—enabling us to really get to know each resident so they feel safe and comfortable from the moment they walk through the front door.

With the help of hospice, our team can care for residents in a loving, supportive and warm environment until the very end, giving families peace of mind, knowing they won’t have to uproot their loved ones if their health declines or daily care needs increase.

Despite this industry’s high turnover rate, 60 percent of our team has been with

us for over five years. This continuity helps establish more trust and comfort among residents and translates into more attentive care.

Our homes feel like one big family that supports both residents and their loved ones through this challenging and emotional process.

Q: How do residents benefit from the more intimate setting offered by Avalon House?

A: Our eight-person homes promote more personalized interaction between residents and caregivers that foster genuine, trusting relationships, enabling our team to quickly notice when residents aren’t acting like themselves. We also take extraordinary measures to individualize each resident’s care, from special diets or foods to the color they want their room painted and the daily activities that interest them.

The Jefferson

DISTINCTIVE SENIOR LIVING IN BALLSTON

The Jefferson is an urban, luxury highrise in Arlington, located one block from the Ballston Metro, that offers independent living and access to a full continuum of care, including assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing/ rehab. Voted “Best Senior Living Community” by Arlington Magazine’s readers in 2023, it has a walkability score of “97”!

900 N. Taylor St. Arlington, VA 22203 703-516-9455

www.sunriseseniorliving.com/communities/ va/the-jefferson

Q: What are the benefits of community living for seniors?

A: Cynthia Davis: I’ve enjoyed meeting many people with fascinating life stories and interests. Additionally, without the burdens of home maintenance, I have more time to pursue all the stimulating activities available onsite.

Julia Oliver: I’ve found people who understand me because we share so many of the same life experiences. As a recent widow, I’ve also appreciated this community’s compassion.

Alan Wile: You have an immediate group of like-minded (similarly aged) friends.

Brenda Barthell: Social interaction—and the support and kindness of my fellow residents—is the No. 1 benefit for me.

Terri Rea: I love the amazing variety of activities, lectures and classes available to us. And the lovely sense of community. People

here genuinely care about each other.

Q: How does a retirement community lifestyle help me continue to do things I love after I give up my car?

A: Paulette Cushman: You don’t need a car when you live at The Jefferson! I can walk to everything I need, including the supermarket, restaurants, a movie theater, walking trails and the Metro. The Jefferson also offers free transportation services.

Beverly Johnson: Whatever your interests are—opera, ballet, museums, art galleries, sporting events—The Jefferson plans outings to all. There are also plenty of opportunities to continue growing your passions, from painting and singing to bocce, gardening, playing cards and much more!

Carol Wolinsky: This community offers many activities that expand our horizons, including art history lectures, evening concerts, theater and concert expeditions, and foreign language classes.

Sunrise at Bluemont Park

Enjoy a vigorous, maintenance-free life at Sunrise at Bluemont Park, where we treat residents with respect, give them choice and encourage their independence. Our team members provide personalized care, build relationships and create a comfortable environment for seniors to thrive. We handle the mundane so you can enjoy the engaging programs, activities and social events.

5910 Wilson Blvd.

Arlington, VA 22205

571-665-4421

SunriseBluemontPark.com

Q: Why choose Sunrise at Bluemont Park?

A: We offer a unique outlook on aging in place and provide personalized assisted living and memory care. From studios to two-bedroom units, residents can choose from over 20 floor plans, some of which feature full kitchens and washers and dryers for those looking to maintain their independence while still benefitting from the support of 24/7 care and dining services. Our idyllic setting overlooking Bluemont Park’s tennis courts and Bon Air Rose Garden is perfect for scenic views and leisurely strolls. Ballston’s vibrant city life is just five minutes away, where residents can enjoy abundant shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences.

Q: What advice would you offer someone looking for a senior living community?

A: Exploring senior living options can be overwhelming, especially considering

you’re making a lifelong decision for yourself or your loved one. Find a community that prioritizes quality care and dining and fosters a vibrant social environment, giving family members invaluable peace of mind. While touring a community, join an activity or chat with residents—they’re the experts and might even become new friends.

Q: What kind of physical fitness services do you provide?

A: We encourage an active lifestyle. Work closely with our in-house physical therapy gym team to regain strength, mobility and independence. Join our daily group exercise class for socialization while building strength using TheraBands and hand weights. Four laps around the paved walking path through our community, and you’ve hit your mile marker. We’re also excited to announce that an independent resident gym is coming soon.

Falcons Landing

Described by residents as a five-star cruise ship that never leaves port, Falcons Landing is an award-winning, not-for-profit CARFAccreddited Life Plan Community. Its careful financial planning means stability today and forever, allowing residents to age in place with peace of mind, knowing their investment is protected and they’ll have access to all the care they need.

20522 Falcons Landing Circle

Potomac Falls, VA 20165 703-404-5151

www.falconslanding.org

Q: What makes Falcons Landing different from other life plan communities?

A: At Falcons Landing, “community” is much more than a word. Created to unite seniors with a shared commitment to service and offer them a fulfilling sense of purpose, our active community thrives on a culture of care and camaraderie among residents and staff. Whatever your interests are—and we encourage residents to explore new hobbies—our robust social calendar ensures that there’s always something for everyone. From myriad clubs and activities to meaningful volunteer opportunities within the local community, there’s never a dull moment.

Enjoy luxury, maintenance-free living in a beautiful apartment or cottage with incredible amenities and services, including a fitness center, junior Olympic pool featuring an indoor whirlpool spa, tennis

court, security services, long-term-care health insurance, award-winning fine dining and more. Our executive chef and skilled culinary team use the highest quality ingredients delivered fresh every day, and they remain in constant contact with our residents, incorporating comments and suggestions into their ever-evolving menus.

Q: What advice would you offer someone looking for a senior living community?

A: While accreditation, accolades and reputation certainly speak volumes, the intangibles often make the biggest difference. So, listen to your instincts, the feeling that resonates with every visit and lets you know this is the best community for you. It is more about the people you will be living and socializing with and not the size of the apartment or cottage that matters. At Falcons Landing, reputation meets heart, residents and staff become family, and every smile is genuine.

Chesterbrook Residences

2030 Westmoreland St., Falls Church, VA 22043

703-531-0781 | www.chesterbrookres.org

Q: How does Chesterbrook Residences help seniors thrive?

A: Chesterbrook Residences prioritizes our residents’ well-being with a compassionate community environment. As a nonprofit, nondenominational assisted living facility in Northern Virginia, we have served seniors in Arlington, Falls Church and McLean for 16 years with a commitment to affordable, quality care and an engaging lifestyle. Our residents can choose from a variety of one- and two-bedroom apartment layouts with full kitchen amenities, and we provide transitional counseling services to support new residents’ physical and mental health needs. Distinguished by diverse life enrichment programs that foster meaningful engagement, robust volunteer efforts and intergenerational collaborations with local schools, Chesterbrook redefines senior living. At Chesterbrook, thriving is not just a goal—it is our promise to every senior we serve.

Greenspring

ARZO HAIDER, GREENSPRING SALES COUNSELOR

7440 Spring Village Drive Springfield, VA 22150

1-877-211-3699

www.GreenspringCommunity.com

Q: What should seniors look for when considering a continuing care retirement community?

A: The first step is to understand that, like Greenspring, a continuing care retirement community offers independent living plus multiple levels of onsite care, such as assisted living, long-term nursing care, respite care, memory care and home care.

If a priority is to meet new people and stay active, look for a community large enough to offer a variety of clubs, activities and amenities, while retaining the warmth of a small town. Residents often refer to Greenspring as a “small town under one roof.” Its wealth of amenities are connected through climate-controlled walkways.

If you wish to stay active and independent while enjoying peace of mind for the future, a CCRC may be right for you.

MICHAEL VENTURA

Sunrise of McLean Village

A brand-new, beautiful boutique-style senior living community, Sunrise of McLean Village opened its doors in 2023 and is still accepting new residents. Conveniently located on Chain Bridge Road, it is a quick drive from ample shopping, dining and medical support.

1515 Chain Bridge Road

McLean, VA 22101

703-286-2095

www.sunriseseniorliving.com/communities/ va/sunrise-of-mclean-village

Q: How does Sunrise of McLean Village help seniors flourish?

A: We empower seniors to live their best lives through a customized approach to care and services, fostering independence, promoting engagement, and cultivating a sense of belonging. We love seeing our residents build new connections and friendships and enjoying our robust calendar of social events, celebrating birthdays, anniversaries and holidays together. Popular activities, like happy hours and resident outings—organized day trips to historical and cultural sites in Washington, D.C., our area’s many landscaped parks, nature preserves and more—further enrich our vibrant community.

Our experienced team takes the time to truly understand each resident, allowing us to tailor care plans to meet individual needs and preferences. With onsite medical, therapy and pharmacy services, we ensure that each resident has easy access

to comprehensive healthcare within our community, enhancing their overall wellbeing and quality of life.

Q: Why choose Sunrise of McLean Village?

A: Sunrise of McLean Village recently opened as the only boutique-style senior living community in the heart of McLean, close to all the local conveniences. Its exquisite interiors, thoughtfully designed to promote activity and engagement, create a luxurious yet comfortable atmosphere. The pristine Heritage Garden, featuring native plants, benches and accessible walking paths, provides a lush green space for relaxation— and a great place to take your dog out to play! Our pet-friendly community delivers a maintenance-free lifestyle with housekeeping, laundry, trash removal, transportation services and more. Experience the charm of Sunrise of McLean Village and embrace an active lifestyle and vibrant social community filled with enriching activities.

Running

Arlington has a lot of vacant office space. It’s not just a problem for the commercial sector.

BY TAMARA LYTLE | ILLUSTRATIONS BY JESS LEMON

Empty on

What do empty office buildings and overleveraged commercial developers have to do with Arlington’s parks, libraries and schools? A lot, actually.

There’s a storm brewing in the business landscape that has yet to unleash its full fury. In the worst case, fierce economic winds and rain could lash taxpayers and the county services they hold dear, from recreational programs and transit routes to emergency responders.

The problem comes down to funding. Arlington has historically derived more of its tax base from the commercial sector than the average suburban municipality does, notes Terry Clower, director of regional analysis at the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University. Doing so has allowed the county to offer high-level services and an enviable quality of life— with perks such as magnet schools, arts programs, abundant parks and athletic facilities.

But as more and more office buildings sit empty with the shift to remote work, commercial landlords are struggling to pay their bills. By the end of 2023, Arlington’s commercial vacancy rate was above 22%. The revenue stream for many of the things that make Arlington a desirable place to live is eroding.

“There will be hard choices [ahead],” Clower says. “Do you want your property taxes higher or fewer services?”

REAL ESTATE TAXES provide more than half of Arlington County’s annual revenue, and for decades, that burden was split 50/50 between commercial and residential property owners, explains County Board Member Matt de Ferranti. This year the scales tipped, with homeowners and residential landlords shouldering about 55% versus commercial contributing 45%. Chronic office vacancies now threaten to push contributions from the commercial sector even lower.

“This really does make it a crisis for the entire community,” says Kate Bates, president and CEO of the Arlington Chamber of Commerce. “The county tax base relies heavily on the commercial sector. Whatever you care about—parks, schools, libraries—we need the business community to be thriving to fund those priorities.”

Last fall, Arlington officials projected a budget shortfall of $25 million to $40 million for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2024. By February, when the county manager’s office released its official $1.5 billion budget proposal, the budget had been balanced. The opening of Amazon’s HQ2 and several new apartment buildings helped. So did $10.1 million in budget cuts along with tax hikes.

As this issue went to press, however, county officials were weighing modest property tax increases. Add to

that Arlington’s new stormwater utility fee and the impact is palpable. Homeowners may be looking at an average increase of $500 in taxes and fees, according to Ryan Hudson, a spokesman for the county manager’s office. For apartment buildings, he says, real estate taxes could go up by an average of $215 per unit annually—a cost that landlords may be inclined to pass along to renters.

Another looming challenge lies in the raft of older buildings nearing the

end of their useful life as offices. Competition from newer, shinier commercial buildings—combined with tenant businesses leasing less space—means older buildings are emptying out. And without rents coming in, building owners can’t pay their taxes. It’s a phenomenon playing out in major metropolitan areas across the U.S. with the shift to remote work.

“Arlington is not immune to the effects of the broader economy and the changing dynamics of the workplace,” says Ryan Touhill, director of Arlington Economic Development (AED), a county agency.

At the end of 2023, Arlington’s commercial vacancy rate was 22.1%, compared with 15.1% at the end of 2019. For older “Class B” buildings, the 2023 vacancy rate was an even higher 24.4%. Touhill expects that figure to remain elevated “for the foreseeable future.”

DURING THE PANDEMIC, companies were forced to find creative ways to keep employees working remotely. Now businesses are rethinking their protocols around how often workers are required to go to the office.

Arlington officials have been buoyed by Amazon’s policy requiring employees in the office three days a week. Real estate analytics giant CoStar Group, which will soon bring some 650 employees to its new headquarters building at 1201 Wilson Blvd. in Rosslyn, requires workers in the office four days a week.

But hybrid work policies have already prompted many companies to downsize their space needs.

Across the U.S., Clower says, the average square footage leased per employee has dropped from 300 in the 1990s to about 170 today.

Arlington’s current surplus of office space doesn’t even reflect the full impact of this trend. Many companies

Office Vacancies in the DMV

Since the pandemic, Arlington has seen the largest increase in office vacancies in the greater D.C. region.

have kicked the proverbial can down the road, extending their leases for a few years while they figure out how much space they actually need in a post-Covid world. Nationwide, about 45% of the commercial office leases signed before the pandemic have yet to expire, notes Phil Mobley, national director of office analytics at CoStar Group.

“If conditions stand still, we’ve got two to three more years of tenants vacating more space than they take in,” Mobley says. “It’s more pressure on landlords. It’s more pressure on the value of the buildings.”

While certain industries like health care, banking and government contracting (requiring security clearances) have always needed workers on

site, other employers are scrambling to entice staff to return full time.

A telling statistic: The number of U.S. workers using key cards to swipe into their offices has dropped drastically since 2019. Only 65% or fewer are showing up on any given day. On Fridays that number drops to a third, according to a February analysis by the key card company Kastle, based in Falls Church.

“There’s a push among executives for higher attendance,” Mobley says, “but it doesn’t translate into a rising tide of attendance.”

Executives at the Shooshan Co., the developer behind Ballston properties such as Marymount University’s satellite building at 1000 N. Glebe Road

and the 23-story mixed-use building at 4040 Wilson, are hoping employees return. On-site work breeds mentorship, collaboration and other benefits to company culture, says Kevin Shooshan, principal of the Arlingtonbased real estate firm. “I don’t think we were designed to live in 700-square-foot apartments and work in those homes,” he says. “My hope is the pendulum has swung too far.”

Shifts in the labor market may eventually give employers more leverage to pull workers back in, adds his father, president and CEO John Shooshan: “As you see unemployment move up over time, I think the employers get more of an upper hand to say, ‘I need you back in the office.’ ”

Source: CoStar Group

BUT A WHOLESALE return to the way things were seems unlikely. Some companies are already moving to smaller digs as leases expire. Others are leveraging the oversupply of commercial space to demand concessions from landlords, such as renovations and months of free rent.

“The last two or three years have seen the highest concessions, the most difficult economics for landlords I’ve seen in a long time,” says Dave Millard, a commercial real estate broker and principal with the global firm Avison Young.

Rental rates are up a modest 1.4%, says GMU’s Clower, but that doesn’t count all the givebacks. Commercial landlords are in a precarious spot: As their borrowing costs go up, they can’t raise the rents high enough to cover those costs without driving tenants away. And they can’t afford to lose any more tenants.

Meanwhile, building improvements that might help with retention have become cost prohibitive. Interest rates for line-of-credit loans (the kinds of loans property owners use for tenant improvements) are based on the prime rate—which was 8.5% as of February, up from 3.25% two years ago, notes Jenny Shtipelman, a senior vice president at National Capital Bank. Borrowing money has become quite expensive.

The pandemic may be in the rearview mirror, but its physical impact on the business landscape has yet to be fully realized. Many leases are in the seven- to 10-year range, meaning companies that signed leases right before Covid have not had the chance to consider moving or downsizing.

When corporate tenants do relocate or renegotiate their leases, CoStar’s Mobley says, they are reducing their space needs by an average of 21%. Lease transactions (turnover stemming from companies leaving old leases) are 6-7% higher than they were in 2019.

Across the U.S., CoStar estimates some 58 million square feet of com-

Building Blocks

What will become of Arlington’s older office buildings that sit empty? The county’s Commercial Market Resiliency Initiative (CMRI), which is currently wending its way through public meetings and strategy sessions, aims to open them up for alternative creative uses by prioritizing the following: Speed. For redevelopment and conversion of offices to other uses, the county is re-examining how it classifies changes (as either “major” or “minor”) to allow simpler proposals to move through the approval process faster.

Tools. To make it easier for landlords to attract tenants, the county is reconsidering its policies around signage (all the way down to sandwich board advertising), parking and public spaces. Place-making. County officials are also seeking new ways to make neighborhoods more vibrant so businesses and residents will be drawn in. For example, the county board voted last year to extend pandemic rules allowing outdoor dining.

mercial space sat empty in 2023, and it’s predicting 95 million square feet of lost occupancy this year. That would make 2024 the worst year ever for “net absorption” (a metric that reflects the total amount of leased space, minus the amount that’s been vacated)—even more dramatic than 2020. “It would be as if the entire San Antonio office market became vacant,” Mobley says.

Tim Hughes, a shareholder at the Arlington law firm Bean Kinney & Korman, says his company (which counts real estate among its practice areas)

downsized well before Covid. In 2018, Bean Kinney relocated from Arlington’s Navy League Building to a new space about 3,000 square feet smaller on Wilson Boulevard. Moving paper documents to the cloud eliminated the need for rooms full of filing cabinets. The firm downsized private offices while beefing up collaborative spaces like conference rooms. These days, Bean Kinney generally requires staff to come in three days a week, though attorneys have more leeway to work remotely.

The switch to hybrid work is also having a trickle-down effect on neighboring service businesses. Fewer workers in the office means fewer customers for office-adjacent dry cleaners, restaurants and retail shops. (Bates of the Arlington Chamber laments the shuttering of her favorite bulgogi spot near her office in Courthouse.)

Touhill is optimistic those service businesses can be part of the solution as the county refocuses development priorities on “place-making”—turning what used to be sterile strips of office buildings into welcoming neighborhoods where people not only work but also live and play.

“Our long-term goal is to make Arlington more resilient,” he says, pointing to Ballston as an example of a neighborhood transformed. That district’s urban-style mix of residential and lifestyle uses keeps things lively in the evenings and on weekends, allowing service businesses to keep the lights on. The goal, Touhill says, “is not to be dependent on getting everyone back to the office.” It’s to create other reasons for people to stick around.

AS IF THE MASS exodus of business tenants weren’t problem enough, commercial developers and landlords are also facing higher interest rates. In recent decades, when interest rates were at rock bottom, developers got greedy and built too much office space on speculation, says John Shooshan.

Now, with borrowing rates creeping ever higher, “the spigot for new office [development] has been almost completely turned off,” says Kevin Shooshan. No new office space broke ground in Northern Virginia in the fourth quarter of 2023.

And here’s where the ground beneath the commercial sector gets really unstable: While residential homeowners can take out 30-year mortgages on their properties, the average timeline for a commercial loan is 10 years or less. As these loans end, commercial building owners are finding banks hesitant to back them and financing more expensive. “No one wants to underwrite what’s been a falling knife,” says John Shooshan.

As a result, Clower says, a growing number of building owners are

“sending the lenders back the key.” Those defaults are driving commercial property values—and therefore tax assessments—down.

“You see just about every week a story about a building that is sold at a big discount,” observes CoStar’s Mobley. As of January, 7.4% of loans on large commercial buildings nationwide were delinquent, compared with 1.4% at the end of 2022. Average prices are down 13% nationwide, compared with where they were at the end of 2021.

CoStar estimates the drop will reach 30% by the middle of 2025.

Not even shiny “Class A” buildings are immune. Consider the Rosslyn tower at 1812 N. Moore St., which has healthy occupancy and a marquis tenant in Nestlé. Even so, owner Monday Properties narrowly avoided foreclo-

sure on the building in late 2023 before a last-minute debt restructuring.

Normally banks impose borrowing limits that keep a loan within a certain percentage of the building’s value. As vacancy rates rise and building valuations decline, banks are requiring landlords to put more cash into their properties. A building that used to be worth $100 million and qualified for an $80 million loan might now be worth only $40 million and qualify for a $36 million loan.

The value of Arlington’s commercial office space dropped 8.5% between 2022 and 2023. The decline might have been even worse, says Derek Dubbé, director of real estate assessments for Arlington County, if not for new construction that offset an 11% decrease in the valuations of older existing properties.

John Shooshan says no one—building owners, bankers, assessors—has been in a hurry to acknowledge the full impact of lower building values. “There’s a big disconnect between reality and what the assessments are,” he says. “I don’t think we, as real estate owners, lenders or municipalities, want to accept the realities of this diminution of value.”

If assessments were pegged more to current market realities, Shooshan says, “You will see [residential real estate tax] rates go up. You will see a disproportionate burden on the residential taxpayer.”

All of this leaves elected officials grappling with tough decisions around Arlington’s revenue framework—and some potentially unpopular policy changes.

“In as great a place to live as Arlington, all residents and businesses, including homeowners, should understand it is possible that [tax] rates may need to increase for the county to continue to deliver the high-quality services residents have come to expect and enjoy,” says County Board Member de Ferranti. “We are mindful of the impacts those increases would have and would do our best to balance the need for services and low tax rates if a rate increase is needed. We hope all of us can consider that we will need to evolve and grow through these changes to our economy.”

ARLINGTON HAS STAKED a lot of its response on a mouthful of letters— CMRI. Launched in 2022, the Commercial Market Resiliency Initiative

is an effort to remove red tape, making it easier and faster for developers and companies to obtain the approvals they need to do business here— especially when it comes to alternative building uses for enterprises that didn’t even exist when the county’s zoning and land use rules were originally written.

Arlington Chamber president Bates cites micro fulfillment centers (which handle the last few miles of the delivery chain for online retail orders) as an example. When the micro fulfillment company Gopuff wanted to set up shop in Arlington, the approval process was stymied because there was no precedent. “Nobody knew what a micro fulfillment center was,” she says.

Other emerging business models addressed in CMRI’s first round of pol-

icy reform included brewpubs, dog boarding facilities, commercial kitchens and makerspaces.

Going forward, Bates hopes county leaders will take a broad-based approach to land-use approvals, rather than reviewing each category on a use-by-use basis. “As things get more competitive, we have to make a great case for why a business should choose Arlington,” she says.

Dismantling regulatory barriers may also pave the way for older buildings currently sitting empty to be converted for other uses, adds AED’s Touhill. Housing is one option, although the conversion mechanics don’t always work. (Who wants to live without windows in the interior of a large building?)

“There’s not one answer,” he says. “We need to be open as a community to apply a mix of tools. We are having to rethink what our urban districts look like. We all recognize the world is different now. We can’t afford to not do anything.”

Clower of GMU compares the current drama in the commercial real estate market with the 1980s, when tax law changes and the savings and loan crisis forced companies and governments to be creative. Maybe, he says, governments and landlords can work in public-private partnerships to redevelop the oldest office buildings.

Arlington is certainly not the only municipality struggling with revenue shortfalls caused by office vacancies. But its historic reliance on commercial tax revenue makes it particularly impacted, Clower observes.

“Folks in Northern Virginia do like high-quality government services,” he says. “They just don’t like paying for it.” ■

Tamara Lytle is a freelance writer in Northern Virginia covering politics, business and other topics.

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The Bobby Thompson Project at IOTA in 2015

■ we still give an iota

Today, there are no physical remnants of Arlington’s famed music club—no lines out the door, no chalkboard signs, no ink splat logo. All that remains is the promise of a hip, new Middle Eastern restaurant soon to occupy the club’s former address, rounding out the restaurant offerings in Clarendon.

But from 1994 until 2017, IOTA Club & Cafe was a no-frills home base for regional bands, a stopping point for national touring acts like Jason Mraz and Brandi Carlisle, and a hometown gem for live

music devotees across the DMV. The closing of the beloved venue located at 2832 Wilson Blvd. was deeply mourned and eulogized, a black armband around Arlington.

To honor what would have been IOTA’s 30th anniversary, we asked a few of the club’s seminal players to reminisce. The musings that follow have been lightly edited for clarity. (Stephen and Jane Negrey, the sibling owners and heartbeat of IOTA, did not respond to numerous requests for interviews.)

The D.C. punk band More AM Than FM onstage in 2017

BEGIN THE BEGIN

Kevin Johnson

Former frontman of the alt-country band Kevin Johnson and the Linemen; founder of Royal Books in Baltimore

“Before IOTA, the strip from the Clarendon Metro and down the big hill to the Wendy’s was kind of empty. There was a big Sears at the bottom of the hill that closed at 5 or 6 p.m., like most everything else on the strip. IOTA was this little Christmas tree that showed up at the top of the hill.

“In the mid-1990s I hosted a gig every Monday night called the Hong Kong Songwriters Showcase. This was pre-internet. I started getting in touch with musicians I knew who could be featured artists. When [folk artist] Richard Buckner played, the place was packed, but you could hear a pin drop. He was a perfect example of what IOTA could be—like church.”

Karl Straub

Songwriter, teacher and founder of The Karl Straub Combo; former frontman of The Graverobbers; author of The Song Factory, a Substack about songwriting (songfactory.substack.com)

“From 1988 to 1989, there was almost nothing on that strip of Wilson Boulevard. Before IOTA opened, we’d play Roratonga Rodeo, one of the first places on Wilson to have bands. We were packing that place so full that the fire marshal would drop by. At the time, there was this tight circle of bands—Jumpin’ Jupiter, Kevin Johnson and the Linemen, The Grandsons—playing these hole-in-the-wall places. The venues were all just trying to make it.

“IOTA had been open for about a month when my band The Graverobbers played there. It immediately became my favorite place to play. We played a role in getting it off the ground. All of us in different bands embraced it as our place.”

Mary Battiata

Former reporter and foreign correspondent for The Washington Post; songwriter and bandleader of Mary Battiata and Little Pink (littlepinktheband.com)

“I first came to IOTA in 1996 to see an artist I liked. I had been overseas for The Washington Post, covering the war in Bosnia, and I had to find a place to live. I knew Arlington because of IOTA.

“I saw so many great acts there for the first time—Robbie Fulks, Buddy and Julie Miller, Billy Joe Shaver—it was really inspiring. I mean, Neko Case was there! And they were right down the street from where I lived. Then you’d walk two blocks down the hill and go to Galaxy Hut. Those two music venues were the two poles of that world.”

Eric Brace

Former music columnist for The Washington Post; songwriter and frontman of the country-rock band Last Train Home (@LastTrainHomeBand on Instagram)

“Before Last Train Home existed, I was a regular at IOTA, from the time it opened in early 1994. Tons of my favorite local bands played there regularly. Last Train Home was just an idea in my head, but I knew that once I got it up and running, IOTA was where I wanted to play.

“I recruited Jim Gray from The Graverobbers to play bass. Our drummer, Martin Lynds, was a doorman at IOTA. I’d seen him play with El Quatro. One night, in a conversation at the door, I’d asked him if he’d like to be in this new band I was putting together. When we finally got a demo together, I called [IOTA co-owner] Steve Negrey and we got our first gig there.”

Justin Trawick

Wammie-winning singer-songwriter and founder of the Americana group Justin Trawick and the Common Good (justin trawick.com)

“I moved from Leesburg to Arlington because I loved IOTA so much.”

Karl Straub

Mary Battiata

Eric Brace

Justin Trawick

■ we still give an iota

GLORY DAYS

Music producer, musician and founder of the Arlington recording studio Machine Room; bassist for the indie-folk band The Grey A (thegreya.com); bassist and producer for Finster (finster96. bandcamp.com)

“IOTA became the place, the mecca, to see live music in Northern Virginia. They hired some of the best sound people in the D.C. region, so the sound was always warm. The room was really balanced. You didn’t have to put in earbuds. You were there for the music. You were frowned at if you were talking.

“My favorite memory is listening to The Grandsons on my birthday. I still have the poster from that show. They all signed it. It was a whole evening of us dancing and singing along. They played ‘When the Saints Go Marching In.’ The lead singer, Alan MacEwen, was playing his trumpet and everyone was marching around.

Johnson: “I opened once for [Americana rocker] Freedy Johnston. It was a soldout show, and a few people were talking in the back of the room. Because of the acoustics, the whole room might as well have been talking. Finally, Freedy stopped playing and said, ‘Hey jerkoffs!’ He asked the audience how much tickets had been to get in that night, which turned out to be $20, I

think. He says, ‘Hang on a second,’ goes to his amp, gets his wallet and pulls out four twenties, then handed the wad to the audience to pass back to the talkers. It was a little tense until Freedy said, with perfect timing, ‘Man, I hate it when I have to do that.’ ”

Brace: “I once interviewed Noel ‘Paul’ Stookey [a member of the 1960s folk trio Peter, Paul and Mary] for a story in The Washington Post about protest songs, and we’d gotten along really well. I’d been a Peter, Paul and Mary fan as a kid, so he invited me to their show at Wolf Trap. I told him I couldn’t go because my band was playing IOTA. He said, ‘How late do you play?’

“I’m onstage around midnight when I look to the left and see Noel walking

Howard Rabach

The Device plays in 2006.

in with a smile on his face, holding his guitar over his head. He sang (if memory serves) Pete Seeger’s ‘Garden Song,’ and he, of course, also sang ‘Puff the Magic Dragon.’ That was surreal, to say the least—being there and singing along with him and the 200-plus people at IOTA. I’m shaking my head just thinking about it now!”

Trawick: “The first time I opened for Last Train Home was the first time I met Eric [Brace]. He came up and hugged me. I’m hugged by a big dude I don’t know, this big rock ’n’ roll star, and he is just so kind and affectionate. It kind of changed my outlook—how a guy could be so nice to someone he didn’t know. That really meant a lot to me.”

Scott McKnight

Guitarist, bassist and vocalist for The Graverobbers, Jelly Roll Mortals, Last Train Home and Dede & the Do-Rights

“When Jay Jenc [of Jumpin’ Jupiter] was at the microphone, he’d do this James Brown move where he’d kick the mic stand over the crowd and then kick it back up. One night, as he kicked it, the mic flipped out of its holder and flew

up in the air and over toward where I was standing offstage. I grabbed it and brought it back to him. He just kept singing like nothing had happened.”

Jay Jenc

Chef at IOTA (1995-2000) and frontman of the local rockabilly band Jumpin’ Jupiter

“Of course, I tried a little showmanship here and there. I had forgotten about that one! Rarely did the James Brown thing work. Almost knocked my front teeth out the last time. Couldn’t risk that, so I stopped trying.”

Rabach: “There was a back deck attached to the parking lot. I don’t know if it was legal. One night Chris Difford [an original member of British pop band Squeeze] was playing an acoustic set. He was hot and said, ‘Come on everybody, follow me,’ and led the crowd out back, like the Pied Piper.”

Brace: “We helped Steve [Negrey] build a new stage—one that was almost twice as big. My brother Alan was in the band [Last Train Home], and he was a contractor, so he really helped, as did Jeff

Jay Jenc

Scott McKnight

Howard Rabach

Rachel Levitin

IOTA founders Stephen Negrey and Jane Negrey Inge in 2012

■ we still give an iota

Nelson who ran the label we were on then, Adult Swim. Our record release show in December 1999 was our first show on the larger stage. It was also our first show with the horn section. We brought them on in the middle of the set, and I just remember the sound bringing tears to my eyes. We’d invited the band Cecilia to open, and at one point they came onstage to sing harmonies. We had 14 people on that stage. It sounded like nothing I could have ever imagined.”

Battiata: “There was a local community of musicians who played at IOTA, but Stephen and Jane Negrey had greater ambitions. IOTA was also the only place in Arlington where you could see touring bands and important acts. They all came because of Stephen and Jane. They booked people they were interested in. They knew what was good and that mattered. They booked women. They booked female acts. They set the tone.”

Straub: “We did a show with Eugene Chadbourne, who was part of the avantgarde improv scene. The Graverobbers were his backup band. Because The Graverobbers always packed the place, IOTA was crowded, with a line down the block to get in. It was so crazy. You couldn’t breathe in there. All of a sudden, there was this bizarre noise. Chadbourne had made this instrument where he took an electric pencil sharpener and attached a saxophone mouthpiece to it, along with a microphone. When he blew on it, it made this hideous noise. He took it over to the exposed bricks and started banging it on the wall and dragging and scraping it up and down. Then he said into the mic, ‘It’s related to house music.’

“I remember thinking at the time that Chadbourne was always playing these hipper, art-scene-y places, and IOTA wasn’t like that. That was the point. He was playing at a place he wouldn’t have normally played. IOTA was the only place where that could have happened exactly as it happened.”

Cheeseburger in paradise

Rabach: “They had a dish called Band Pasta for $6. It was like going to your family’s house for dinner.”

Trawick: “Steve Negrey knew I didn’t drink too much, so instead of plying me with alcohol, he knew that eating meant a lot to me. Usually musicians got the Band Pasta, which I think was penne pasta and chicken in Alfredo sauce. But Steve allowed me to have the fried chicken meal, which was two pieces of chicken, mac ’n’ cheese and collard greens. To this day, those were the best collard greens I’ve ever had.”

McKnight: “For what was essentially a music venue with a bar, the food was always very good. When Jay Jenc was head chef, he made a shredded Asian beef that was one of the best things I’ve eaten. Great fries, too.”

Jenc: “The french fries were a frozen variety from a vendor called BrewCity. They had a light batter coating, which was

perfect for catching the Montreal steak seasoning that I dusted them with.”

Johnson: “I fondly remember the veggie burger with bacon. Neel Lassiter was the ultimate relaxed and knowledgeable bartender. He had great élan and a super-mellow vibe. I’d be at the bar, and he’d say, ‘Shall I get you a veggie burger with bacon?’ The answer was always yes.”

Fade to Black

Brace: “Because I had become so close with Stephen and Jane, I knew almost a year ahead that the closing was going to happen. I knew the rent was going to become untenable. When the news was formally announced, Stephen called and invited Last Train Home to play two more shows on closing weekend. Those were two of our greatest nights there. And two of our saddest.”

Rabach: “A couple of weeks after they closed Steve had a garage sale. I bought the carpet from IOTA’s stage for $45. There’s got to be a lot of mojo in this

A packed house in 2015

carpet. It now lives in my studio, in the control room under my desk.”

Rachel Levitin

Singer, songwriter and producer (@rhlevitin on Instagram)

“I bought one of the café chairs for $5 at the IOTA garage sale. Soon after, I had an idea: I would ask local musicians who had performed at IOTA a set of questions and then have them sit in the IOTA chair and sing a song. I started doing it because I was sad and I missed my place. I wanted friends to open up about what they loved and still love about IOTA. In 2018, I recorded and edited the videos on my tiny little iPhone SE. [They are now archived on Instagram @iotachair.]

McKnight: “I had a solid-state Yamaha amp that had been the IOTA ‘loaner’ amp for years. The last time I was

there, I brought it home with me. What I really wanted, though, were the glass bricks from the front of the building.”

Rabach: “When IOTA closed, it was like a gut punch. A lot of us signed a petition to keep it going. It was like one of those old movies where the characters band together and say stuff like, I’ll save the farm! I’ll make the costumes! I’ll sell the tickets.”

Battiata: “I remember everything. The way it looked. The way it smelled. The way you felt when you were there. It was really my world for 10 years. It formed me as a songwriter. It launched me as a songwriter.”

Brace: “IOTA was the most important place I’ve ever played in terms of learning how to put on a show. Every element of that: how to talk to an audi-

ence. How to be a bandleader. How to communicate with band members onstage. How to write a set list. How to open and close a show. How to thank people for coming. How to run a sound check. How to talk to a sound engineer. How to talk to a bartender. How to negotiate with a club owner.”

McKnight: “When I get to the end of my life and look back at all the highlights, at the top are the times I spent onstage at IOTA.”

Johnson: “IOTA was a spiritual place, and 100% the product of Steve and Jane Negrey’s enthusiasm and love for music. It was more than a club, and more than a bar. For all of us who played there, it was home.” ■

Cathy Alter is a writer and author based in Washington, D.C.

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A native bumblebee (right) and a European honeybee gather pollen from Virginia mountain mint.

Bee Wild

Native bees play a vital role in healthy ecosystems. You can protect these pollinators by building habitats that help them thrive.

By Amy Brecount White

by Samantha Joan White

Carmen Iasiello credits her children, now 8 and 11, with opening her eyes to the wonders of native bees. When their family moved to Cherrydale in 2017, they decided to create an Audubon at Home wildlife sanctuary and planted native plants. The kids were “into anything that looked exciting” and reveled in discovering new bugs.

Whenever they spotted an insect they hadn’t seen before, Iasiello took photos and used the iNaturalist app to identify it. Their favorite so far is the brown-belted bumblebee, with its distinctive brown patch. Virginia boasts 14 species of native bumblebees.

Many eco-minded gardeners, having read news stories about the plight of endangered bees, might be excited to see honeybees pollinating their yards. But recent scientific studies suggest honeybees aren’t the pollinators we should be most concerned about. In the U.S., there are nearly 4,000 kinds of native bees, including varying subspecies of bumblebees, carpenter bees, leaf-cutter bees, sweat bees, mining bees and mason bees. Some 400 types live in Virginia and are critical to both successful pollination and biodiversity.

Honeybees (Apis mellifera) are not native to the U.S. They were brought over from Europe in the 1600s to produce honey and wax. Honeybees have received a lot of attention in recent decades, prompting some well-intentioned souls to try their hand at backyard beekeeping in an effort to fortify our pollinator populations. Many biologists and other scientists now discourage that practice.

“The reality is that being a beekeeper is not pollinator conservation,” cautions Rich Hatfield, a senior conservation biologist with the Xerces Society, an Oregon-based nonprofit that supports invertebrate conservation to protect ecosystem health. “It’s animal husbandry. It’s a fun hobby, but it’s not conservation.”

Photos

Yes, honeybee colonies have faced challenges stemming from diseases, pesticides and habitat loss—but as managed commodities, they aren’t at risk of disappearing like some of our native bees. Though honeybee colonies nationwide decreased by 7% from 2022 to 2023, more than 2.7 million remained, according to the Department of Agriculture, and practiced beekeepers are able to split hives to create new ones. Unfortunately, those large numbers may negatively impact native bee populations.

When you introduce honeybees to a setting, “you’re bringing in competitors for a native species,” explains Sam Droege, a wildlife biologist with the U.S. Geological Survey based in Lau-

rel, Maryland. “A lot of times you don’t need honeybees, for the wild bees are doing everything.”

Nearly a quarter of native bee species in the U.S. are currently threatened, according to the Arizona-based Center for Biological Diversity. The nonprofit works to protect bee species that are endangered due to habitat loss, pesticide use and—as more worldwide studies are suggesting—competition from honeybees for limited pollen and nectar resources. Widespread development of former fields, meadows and forests, combined with the suburban penchant for lawn grass and non-native plants, has resulted in significant habitat loss for all kinds of bees. There’s only so much pollen and nectar to go around.

In light of those dwindling resources, scientists are concerned that native bees may lose out, or their reproductive rates will decline. An oft-cited 2016 study by USDA and university scientists calculated that “from June–August, a strong [honeybee] colony gathers as much pollen as could produce 100,000 progeny of an average solitary bee.” (Most native bees are solitary, rather than living in hives.) Unlike honeybees, native bees also don’t have large honey reserves to rely on for food if the pollen and nectar supply is low.

WHILE HONEYBEES DO play an important role in large-scale agricultural settings (portable hives are sometimes brought in to help pollinate commercial crops), “native bees…are better and more efficient pollinators of native crops,” according to the U.S. Forest Service. Certain plants—such as tomatoes, eggplant and blueberries—require the buzz pollination that native bumblebees and other native insects provide. Their vibrations release hard-to-get pollen that honeybees can’t dislodge.

Native bees play “an integral role in plant reproduction,” says conservation biologist Hatfield, in that they “come in all different shapes and sizes that are attuned to go into the different shapes and sizes of native flowers.” They have evolved ecologically over millions of years to match the needs of certain plants. Some native plants depend on a specific bee to reproduce and, therefore, exist.

Think of the interdependence between milkweed and monarch butterflies (whose caterpillars feed exclusively on milkweed leaves). A similar relationship exists for the more than 25% of mid-Atlantic bees that are oligolectic— meaning they require a certain type of pollen from a certain family, genus or even a singular plant, to reproduce.

The early blooming Virginia spring beauty, a woodland wildflower, relies on a specific type of mining bee that’s

Native plants in Arlington’s Benjamin Banneker Park

evolved to emerge from its nest at the perfect time to gather the plant’s pollen (a source of protein and other nutrients), enabling both species to reproduce. The hibiscus bee feeds on pollen from the mallow family (which includes a hibiscus plant native to Virginia). The gorgeous pinxter azalea supplies pollen for another particular type of mining bee. As with monarchs and milkweeds, these symbiotic relationships are critical to the survival of both flora and fauna.

“If we want to continue to live in a diverse, healthy ecosystem, native bees have to be a part of that,” says Hatfield.

Conversely, honeybee pollination may foster the spread of non-native invasive plants. “We have a lot of those European plant species as invasives and as garden plants,” says Droege of the U.S. Geological Survey. (English ivy, clover and Canada thistle are examples.) “The use of those plants by honeybees is almost preordained because these are the same plants they adapted to a long time ago” before they were brought to this area.

All bees are not alike. With the exception of bumblebees, which have the ability to produce a honey-like substance for short-term sustenance, most native bees don’t produce honey, and they don’t live in hives.

Some 70% of native bees live underground, explains Alonso Abugattas, natural resources manager for Arlington County Parks (he goes by “Capital Naturalist” on social media), while the other 30% live in cavities in trees, plants, walls and other hospitable locations. Native bees range in size, and most have different tongue lengths and adaptations that enable them to pollinate the trickier plants that honeybees can’t crack.

Unlike honeybees and yellow jackets, native bees rarely sting—or have stingers that can’t penetrate our skin. Droege describes most native bees as “single moms looking for food” who are entirely responsible for their offspring. We “walk across hundreds of bees’

Common Native Bee Types

As essential pollinators, native bees are keystone species. Their larvae usually overwinter in nests and many emerge in the spring, well before honeybees. Most live a solitarily existence, and many are at risk.

Bumblebees: These large bees (which can measure up to 1.5 inches) live in colonies with queens in hollow places. Their buzz pollination is essential for certain fruits and vegetables.

Carpenter: Measuring up to 1-inch long, these native plant generalists also practice buzz pollination. They bore nests in exposed wood (be sure to seal your home and deck) and may hover to look at you.

Leaf-cutter: Medium in size, they cut leaves (hence the name) to line their nests in trees, logs and other cavities. They pollinate wildflowers, fruits and vegetables.

Mining (Andrenid): With subspecies of varying sizes, mining bees dig holes to nest underground, and pollinate spring-blooming flowers, trees and fruits.

Orchard Mason: These small (roughly half an inch), efficient pollinators, which nest in tunnels in wood, play a vital role in gardens and orchards.

Sweat: Small (half an inch or less) and metallic looking, they collect salt from skin and can sting lightly. They nest underground or in rotting wood and pollinate flowers and crops.

Sources: Virginia Cooperative Extension; Maryland Department of Natural Resources

nests all summer long,” without even realizing it, he says. Whereas a honeybee colony has bees to spare and will sacrifice them to protect the hive, most native bees don’t defend their nests. In doing so, they might “die and that’s the end of their whole line.”

Bumblebees, which do live in colonies with queens and worker bees, may sting to defend the colony if provoked, but they are the exception among native bees.

When Arlington resident Amy Spector planted a wide range of native plants in her Dominion Hills yard, she was surprised to discover “flying things I didn’t realize were bees. They come in different sizes. They look different and seem very docile. They kind of live

and let live,” she says. “Hopefully they’ll keep coming around.”

Understanding that native bees are pretty chill makes it that much easier to enjoy their presence. Matt Bright, executive director of Earth Sangha, a native plant nursery in Springfield, finds carpenter bees “really charming.” When volunteers come to the nursery in the cool early morning hours, he shows them that “you can even go up to ones sitting on flowers and pet them. They just buzz amiably.”

WANT TO PET a happy bee? One of the best ways to support native bees is to trade the neat-and-tidy aesthetic of a grass lawn for a different type of landscaping. Teri Genberg, a West Falls

SAMANTHA JOAN WHITE (BUMBLEBEE); ADOBE STOCK (LEAF-CUTTER AND ORCHARD MASON)

Bumblebee

Leaf-cutter

Orchard Mason

How to Support Native Bees

Choose native plants. Bees thrive when their habitats are lush with the pollen and nectar that is most nutritious to their particular species. Aim to have native plants blooming from early spring until frost. “The average native bee is only out for like seven weeks and is looking for certain kinds of resources,” says Sam Droege, a wildlife biologist with the U.S. Geological Survey. “Different colors and shapes attract different bees, so plant flowers that have different colors and shapes.” True native plants are preferable to cultivars, which are manipulated by plant breeders for size, coloration or larger blooms, and tend to produce less pollen and nectar.

Even small gardens count. If your available space is limited to a container garden on the porch or a few potted plants on the balcony of a high-rise building, you can still have an impact. “Bees will find those flowers and use them,” says conservation biologist Rich Hatfield, and yours, combined with a neighbor’s, might create a functional habitat. Try mountain mint, spring beauty, wild geraniums, sunflowers, asters and goldenrod, along with native blooming shrubs and trees such as spicebush and redbud. Experts recommend clustering the same types of flowers to make foraging easier. “It takes five flowers for a bee to create a nest and create one additional baby bee,” says Droege.

Shop local nurseries. Yorktown resident Rod Simmons, a former natural resources manager for the City of Alexandria, cautions against buying native plants at big-box stores. The reason, he says, is that some greenhouses treat their offerings with systemic neonicotinoids—insecticides “which are absorbed by plants and

persist in plant tissue.” Such plants might ironically kill the pollinators that feed on them.

Leave winter leaves and stems alone. Native bee larvae overwinter in underground nests, leaf litter or hollow, pithy stems before emerging in the spring and summer. To avoid disrupting them, Hatfield advocates embracing the “chaos” of messy leaf piles and dead wood through the winter. “If you take all that plant material and throw it in the compost bin or throw it away, you’re potentially killing a lot of overwintering insects,” he says. Once your plants start flowering again, it’s safe to do a yard cleanup.

Don’t spray. While some mosquitofogging companies claim to use organic materials and/or treatments that spare beneficial insects, the chemicals they use are “highly toxic to bees, killing them on contact and for more days after treatment,” according to the National Wildlife Federation. “There is no way for companies to spray these broad-spectrum insecticides in your yard without also killing other insects they come into contact with, including bees, butterflies, caterpillars and dragonflies.” A better way to control the mosquito population is to support the insects and other creatures that eat mosquitoes.

A pollinator garden on North Greenbrier Street in Arlington

Church resident who runs the website choosenatives.org, admits that the native field thistle she favors is “tall and prickly” and not ideal for every yard. Yet for her, the reward is “visits from not only cool bumblebees and [other] native bees, but also ruby-throated hummingbirds, all types of butterflies and moths, and then finally the goldfinches that

come to consume the seeds.” A hospitable host, Genberg occasionally drags logs onto her property for bees and other insects to use for nesting.

Spector has similarly adjusted her definition of beauty when it comes to yard maintenance. “We do have a lot of leaves that are chewed, and for me, that’s a welcome thing,” she says. “There are insects around.” She’s introduced mason bee houses to her property so that “almost constantly there are bees, working their magic.”

Arlingtonian Nancy Cleeland initially planted her garden in Tara-Leeway Heights with birds and butterflies

in mind but was soon smitten with the bees. “I became enchanted, watching them,” she says, finding extra delight whenever she happens upon a bee asleep in a flower. “One time I saw a bee in an aster, and it looked like he was pulling the petals down like a blanket.” Genberg says the abundance of native bees in her yard lifts her spirits. “Just seeing so much life is hopeful at a time when my eco anxiety is at its highest,” she says. “Planting native plants is the one thing I can do on my property to relieve stress on these native bees and other critters. As individuals, we can make a positive difference. People forget that. We have more control than we remember.” ■

An Arlington Regional Master Naturalist, Amy Brecount White does her best to create abundant and sometimes “messy” habitats for native bees in her yard—and her neighbors are just fine with that.

Wildlife at Benjamin Banneker Park

Thinking about remodeling? These culinary beauties will surely give you house envy.

BY NIGEL F. MAYNARD

Dream Kitchens

Earthy finishes combine with brass accents for an elegant look.

Neutral Zone

ERIN JOHNSON AND Michael Schmid’s kitchen was relatively small (8½ feet by 14 feet) in proportion to their 3,000-square-foot Lyon Park house, built in 2002, and it lacked functional storage space. Also, its builder-grade finishes had seen better days.

Sure, those shortcomings had to be fixed, but the plans for their kitchen remodel started with a range—specifically, a sleek Lacanche unit, handmade in Burgundy, France. “It was the first thing we decided on after visiting their New York City showroom,” says Johnson, a real estate broker. “The other design elements flowed from there.”

The team tasked with righting their kitchen’s wrongs—and making sure the rest of the space was on par with that fabulous stove—included Tanya SmithShiflett, owner of Unique Kitchens & Baths in Great Falls; interior designer Alison Giese, whose eponymous firm is based in San Antonio; and Carrmichael Construction in Oakton.

The first order of business was enlarging the space, which was easy because the kitchen had an adjacent sitting area that allowed the construction crew to elongate the room. “We had to move windows around and add walls,” Smith-Shiflett says. But in the grand scheme of kitchen makeovers, it was a relatively simple solution.

As Giese explains it, the revamped culinary space is now organized into zones, with the sink, fridge and storage on one side; the range (with its custom hood) and island occupying the center; and a coffee and wine bar on the other side.

Aesthetically, the owners wanted a mixture of styles and finishes incorporating inspiration from their travels. Smith-Shiflett specified a combi-

nation of painted, stained and white oak cabinets with a lime mineral finish that enhances the wood’s natural characteristics. Vertical planks on one wall and the ceiling create depth and dimension.

“We prefer a neutral, nature-inspired palette,” Johnson says. “The varied cabinet finishes are tied together by Calacatta quartzite countertops that have a flowing, organic veining. I love the patina of unlacquered brass, so that was incorporated in the cabinet knobs, handles and lighting hardware. The wood paneling detail on the ceiling helps the space feel cozy.”

Smith-Shiflett attributes the project’s success to the homeowners’ collaborative energy and high level of engagement. “The clients were lovely,” she says. “[Erin] knew what she wanted. I think being in real estate, she sees many kitchens, so she has an eye for certain things.”

The result is a dramatic yet quiet space that brings the couple joy. “It’s our favorite room of the house,” says Schmid, who works in finance. “We wouldn’t change a thing. We smile every time we walk into the room.”

The Project

Kitchen Designer: Unique Kitchens & Baths uniquekitchensandbaths.com

Interior Designer: Alison Giese Interiors alisongieseinteriors.com

Cool Vermilion

IN THE 15 YEARS after they bought their Arlington home, a postwar rambler built in the 1950s, Melanie and David (last name withheld for privacy)

made various improvements, but the kitchen stayed more or less the same. “The kitchen was functional, renovated sometime in the late ’90s,” says Mela-

nie, who works in public affairs. (David is an entrepreneur.) “The layout was cramped and a bit awkward. The style was very generic and not our taste at all. It was very beige.”

Its dated finishes, lack of storage and oddly angled sink left much to be desired, she adds. But the space did have some redeeming qualities,

including its sunny, east-facing orientation and prime location in the center of the house.

To build on these positive attributes, the couple turned to TriVistaUSA, a design-build firm in Arlington. “We like midcentury style and wanted any upgrades to the house to be consistent with the original design,” Melanie says.

The home’s original narrow kitchen was little more than a hallway with cabinets. To create better circulation and sight lines inside the house, TriVistaUSA co-owner Michael Sauri reconfigured various aspects of the layout, relocating a kitchen pantry and removing wall casings that were making the interiors feel cramped.

The intervention preserves a straight view from the front door into the kitchen, while opening up the main floor connections between the living room, kitchen and bedroom wing.

With the exception of one wall, the kitchen is now largely free of upper cabinets. “It opens into the dining room and a newly covered deck with views to the backyard,” Sauri says. “They have this beautiful backyard that looks out into the trees. It’s a gorgeous area because of the topography.” Obstructing that view would have been a crime.

Tomato red cabinets by Wynnbrooke dominate the design, but not in a bad way. Because most of it is below eye level, the color does not overwhelm.

To make up for the lack of upper cabinet storage, Sauri added a pantry (not shown) behind the refrigerator wall. “This space was 10½ feet,” he explains. “It was much larger than the hallway that was needed, but not wide enough or big enough to do anything with. We couldn’t turn it into a breakfast area, so we made a pantry.”

The kitchen’s other surfaces and materials, such as quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and champagne bronze and satin brass metal finishes, play a supporting role to the red. Together they create an aesthetic that brings the wow.

“We love it,” Melanie says. “The red almost feels neutral. It goes with everything. We have more than enough storage space and room for entertaining. The design reflects our style and also the original design of the house.”

THE PROJECT

Kitchen Designer/Contractor: TriVistaUSA Design+Build trivistausa.com

Red is the new neutral in this mid-mod kitchen makeover.

Double Duty

WHEN YURI SAGATOV’S clients approached him to design their custom home in Clarendon, they requested an open plan and an industrial vibe. “The goal was to design the house to feel like an old urban space that was reimagined,” says the designer and principal of ODE Kitchens in Falls Church.

To fulfill their wishes, Sagatov drew material inspiration from cities—using

brick, steel and glass to inform the aesthetic of the house. Similar elements continue this theme in the kitchen.

“The kitchen is a blend of matte black and a bleached natural wood, which is actually a high-grade laminate,” Sagatov says. “The black cabinets are a nano material that is matte and fingerprint proof, and the countertops are quartz Caesarstone. The goal was to create a

complex mix of textures applied in a monochromatic arrangement.”

The owners cook and entertain frequently, so the kitchen had to function for everyday use as well as for catering situations. “They have big parties, but they didn’t want the kitchen to be overwhelmed with food and [dirty dishes],” Sagatov says.

The problem: Open-concept floor plans don’t make such disappearing acts that easy. Given that this kitchen is open to the adjacent living spaces, they needed a way to hide countertop appliances and everyday clutter.

a

Tucked behind the main kitchen, this secondary culinary space provides storage for countertop appliances, plus a second oven, sink and dishwasher. This frees up the main kitchen to be open and functional during parties without putting the mess on display.

“The biggest challenge with this space, given its location, was bringing natural light into that side of the house,” Sagatov says. “The solution was the steel-and-glass wall to separate the

back kitchen from the front kitchen. It allows the light to penetrate all the way into the house.” ■

Nigel F. Maynard recently renovated his mother’s kitchen in the U.S. Virgin Islands. He is a writer, woodworker and DIY remodeler based in Hyattsville, Maryland. Follow him on Instagram @prod ucts_hound and @custom_home_hacker.

The answer: A hidden back kitchen that serves as

supplemental prep zone, pantry and cleanup area.

An open floor plan puts this stylish kitchen on full display.

Glass walls separate the two kitchens while channeling natural light deep into the center of the home.

The hidden back kitchen

Builders & Architects

Classic Cottages

Northern Virginia-based Classic Cottages provides turnkey solutions for Arlington families looking to build or buy a new home. Whether it’s a carefully crafted model home or a custom home from scratch, Classic Cottages can handle everything from concept to completion through its skilled in-house acquisitions, sales, architecture, design and construction departments.

433 E. Monroe Ave. Alexandria, VA 22301 703-844-9936

sales@ccottages.com www.ccottages.com

Classic Cottages has been a top homebuilder in the Northern Virginia region, often standing out among fellow local homebuilders because of its unique organizational make-up. With all building facets housed under one roof, Classic Cottages has created a consistent, reliable and truly unique home building experience for its clients over the past fourteen years.

Classic Cottages is particularly excited about their new designs for two new models: Ivy &and Oakley. At around 3,700 finished square feet, these models work well to mimic the architecture and size of their surrounding neighbors. Many people have commented on how much they like both designs and how they fit so well in classic Arlington neighborhoods. Classic Cottages will be building these models

on other homesites in their portfolio throughout the coming year.

Buyers can choose to purchase Classic Cottages’ existing homesites featuring these models or they can work with staff to customize either model (or any of the existing models) to suit their specific lifestyle needs. “We understand that within the home building industry, visuals are everything,” says Michelle Lynch, sales manager with Classic Cottages. “We take pride in the fact that we build a variety of home designs from traditional to modern. Sometimes it is hard to visualize what 3,700 square feet truly feels like before a home is built. Therefore, our website is an excellent way to get to know us as a builder as well as the quality of craftsmanship in each of our homes.”

DeFalco Home Design

TRIPP DEFALCO, AIA

Winston Churchill once said that “We shape our buildings — thereafter they shape us.” He is right. DeFalco Home Design is passionate about residential architecture, and we find it gratifying to be able to make a real difference in our clients’ lives.

Arlington, VA 22213

703-483-2427

info@defalcohomedesign.com

www.defalcohomedesign.com

DeFalco Home Design owner Tripp DeFalco spends a lot of time on construction sites. “I want my clients’ designs to be executed as we envisioned,” he says. “Though reviewing shop drawings and product submittals from the comfort of an architect’s office is helpful, there is no substitute for observing the build as it progresses.” Even under the best of conditions, builders will have questions and can make the occasional mistake. Without the presence of an architect to help both client and builder make decisions and solve inevitable issues, the process can be stressful and the end product disappointing.

For the firm’s architecture clients, this dedication translates into DeFalco having insider knowledge when working with their builder. “It’s much easier to avoid an adversarial relationship between

client and builder when the architect is able to offer an explanation for what may otherwise look like strange to someone outside the profession,” he says.

Due to ongoing construction cost inflation and rising interest rates, clients ask how to manage these risks while still achieving their goals. DeFalco’s advice is twofold: First—focus on the essentials, and tailor the design to those functions or spaces that are absolutely critical to everyday living. “Nice to have” amenities can often be added later. Second—involve potential builders early in the design process, when scope changes can be easily made if cost estimates exceed the project budget. DeFalco Home Design stands ready to guide you through the entire design and construction process, acting as your advocate from concept to completion.

TriVistaUSA Design + Build

Awards/Honors: Arlington Magazine Winner, Best Remodeler 2024

PRO Remodeler of the Year, 2024

Best of Houzz in Design, 2023 Arlington Chamber of Commerce Service Small Business Award

TriVistaUSA Design + Build’s award-winning build team values client satisfaction above all else. Behind the scenes, they collaborate with the design team on every project to ensure that clients’ needs are met.

TriVistaUSA often gets complimented on their up-front process, which offers a realistic preview of what the remodeling experience will be like, the challenges of the “during,” and a very, very exciting “after.”

put it, “Trust is the word that stands out to me when I think of TriVistaUSA. We had difficult experiences with contractors during our two previous large home renovation projects, but Steve helped make the financial side of things practically a breeze.”

703-243-3171

info@trivistausa.com

www.trivistausa.com

TriVistaUSA’s build team is led by Northern Virginia native Director of Build Steve Inch. He holds a BS from the University of South Carolina and is a PRO Certified Remodeling Project Manager. His considerable experience in the construction industry includes pre-construction engineering, wood restoration, windows, siding and chimney services. Inch has a proven dedication to process and customer service. His hard work has paid off. As one happy client

TriVistaUSA’s process is constantly being improved to better serve clients and provide value and communication throughout the entire remodel. To that end, the company uses the latest technology, such as software that allows for tracking and predicting schedule changes and challenges and ensures all long-lead-time items are ordered well in advance. Most importantly, they have developed a proprietary project planning system that allows them to pull projects forward—yes, ahead of schedule—when possible. Needless to say, their clients are delighted!

Focal Point Homes

“Driven by our love for beautiful, timeless architecture and for creating exceptional experiences for our clients, we strive each day to dream, design and deliver even better than the day before.”

6756 Old McLean Village Drive, Suite 100 McLean, VA 22101

703-356-1231 (o) 571-721-9546 (c) jeffj@focalpointhomes.com www.focalpointhomes.com

With an MBA from Harvard and a degree in Construction Management from BYU, Scott Murray spent twelve years working for two national home builders, including four years as a division president, before founding Focal Point Homes in 2010. Since then, the Focal Point team has built hundreds of custom and semicustom single-family homes for clients on scattered in-fill lots in Arlington, McLean, Falls Church, Vienna, Great Falls and beyond. With their extensive portfolio and decades of experience, they possess a deep understanding of both the business and the local market.

“From the beginning,” explains Scott, “our aim has always been to create a worldclass, truly enjoyable building experience for our clients and to strive to make the

communities in which we build even nicer places to live than they already are.” To accomplish that, Focal Point has consistently focused on building a team of individuals whose educational backgrounds, work experience and commitment to doing the right thing are unparalleled in the industry. Scott says that Focal Point’s customers can feel confident that those planning and building their homes are critical thinkers who strive for excellence, but “more importantly, they are thoughtful, honest and caring—people you would like to have as friends.” And, if the 85+ fivestar Google Reviews the company has received online from its clients can be used as evidence, it appears they have hit the mark!

STEPHANIE BRAGG

Bowers Design Build

For 34 years, Bowers Design Build has created an exceptional home renovation experience. They offer a complete turn-key operation, with on-staff architects and interior designers creating customized designs and on-staff construction experts building with quality-minded focus and honed project management skills. The entire Bowers team is committed to delivering a great experience for their clients.

6715 Whittier Ave., Suite 200, McLean, VA 22101 703-506-0845 | info@bowersdesignbuild.com www.bowersdesignbuild.com

While Bowers Design Build’s singular goal is to create an extraordinary design and construction experience for their renovation clients, it has to start with a great design. “Our on-staff architects, led by Bob Braddock, former principal of Red House Architects in Arlington, focus on creating beautiful structures that enhance the functionality of the home,” says President John Coburn. “Our in-house staff of interior designers guide clients through the detailed product selection process so that all finishes deliver on the client’s vision. After design, our construction project managers and craftsmen bring the design to fruition with a detailed schedule and fixed ’no surprises’ budget.”

While winning industry awards for exceptional design and construction for more than 30 years is wonderful, the true measure of the Bowers

Design Build team’s success is happy clients. “Inspired by our long-standing reputation for extreme customer care, our team of professionals goes above and beyond daily to ensure overall client satisfaction,” says Coburn. Proof that all that hard work is paying off: recent results from independent survey research firm, GuildQuality.com, show that 100% of Bower’s clients surveyed would recommend them to a friend.

Satisfied clients describe the Bowers Design Build team as creative, detail oriented, dedicated, honest, fair and great project managers. They recognize that their employees are talented people focusing on customer care. In fact, many of Bowers’ customers have said they wouldn’t change a thing about their experience and 30% of the firm’s projects are with repeat customers.

MICHAEL VENTURA

Senior Vice President of Design Katie Peters with Architect Marc Prisco, V.P of Architecture Bob Braddock, and Construction Site Manager Scott Long representing the Bowers Design Build team.

James McDonald Associate Architects, PC

Awards/Honors:

Southeast Builders Conference/Florida Home Builder Association (2023): “Best on the Boards Custom”, “Best Custom Home”

Northern Virginia Building Industry Awards (2023):Grand Award, Custom Home of the Year; Award: Best Design and Architecture (4 awards); Award of Merit: Best Design and Architecture (3 awards); Best Interior Merchandising

10135 Colvin Run Road, Suite 200 Great Falls, VA 22066

(703) 757-0036

james@jamesmcdonaldarchitects.com

www.jamesmcdonaldarchitects.com

This year marks the 15th for James McDonald Architect Associates, a residential design firm that has added signature projects to communities throughout the mid-Atlantic area and beyond. The firm’s projects range from small renovations and additions, to jewel box cottages, all the way to grand estate homes. Their diversity in design style allows them to work on projects ranging from Miami contemporary to French provincial and anything in between.

James McDonald has been working on residential projects for the last 35 years in many capacities. “I have been the lead architect for a firm that did design-build remodeling, and I have worked on luxury production homes, town homes and up to full 600-unit apartment buildings,” McDonald says. “Working across the residential

design field has allowed me to see and understand trends in the housing market.” This insight allows McDonald to advise clients when something goes against what the greater market may be looking for.

The design process starts in the initial meeting. “After some conversation about wants, wishes and needs, we start sketching floor plan and elevation ideas right in front of the client,” McDonald says. “This allows us to try multiple ideas and design directions very quickly and further define the project design parameters.” This brings everyone into the design process and creates a vision of the project from the initial meeting.

All that hard work eventually pays off: “When we get toward completion and a client tells me that the project exceeds their dreams—that is why we do our job.”

Alair Arlington

ANDREW HALL, PROJECT MANAGER

MASEEH EXEER, PROJECT MANAGER

CHAD HACKMANN, REGIONAL PARTNER

JONATHAN OLARTE, PROJECT MANAGER

JASON CHANEY, GENERAL MANAGER

Awards/Honors:

NVBIA Custom Builder of the Year (2023, 2022)

NARI Regional Contractor of the Year (2024, 2020, 2019)

NARI National Contractor of the Year (2021)

Arlington Green Home Choice Platinum Award (2020)

NARI Community Service Award (2020)

3033 Wilson Blvd., Suite E-119

Arlington, VA 22201

703-791-1317

chad.hackmann@alairhomes.com

www.AlairArlington.com

Under the leadership of long-time Arlingtonian and twenty-year industry veteran Chad Hackmann, Alair Arlington is an award-winning custom home builder and remodeler serving the D.C. metro region.

Alair’s expertise is working with Arlington’s small lots and setback requirements. “Whether navigating permitting, zoning, historic preservation or structural complexities, my team and I excel when presented with intricate projects,” says Hackmann. Their outstanding work has received extensive recognition, including winning a 2024 Regional National Association of the Remodeling Industry’s Contractor of the Year Award.

Alair’s focus on treating clients like they would treat friends and family sets them apart from competitors. Their detailed processes and proprietary Client Control™ software give every homeowner the one-on-

one attention they deserve and the ability to seamlessly track every line item related to their projects, eliminating surprises and giving the client the power to control costs. Each homeowner has a direct relationship with their project manager from concept through completion. As one satisfied homeowner recently shared, “Our project manager was always responsive and detail-oriented. I had a few unique design requests for the interior, and he was great at remembering everything and making it happen.”

Hackmann’s advice if you are considering a home construction project: do your research. “When choosing a builder, transparency, communication and track record are the most important things to consider,” he says. “You need a trusted advisor who can honestly and transparently walk you through your options. That is what Alair does best.”

Ballard + Mensua Architecture

SETH M. BALLARD, AIA, NCARB

Awards/Honors:

Arlington Magazine Winner, Best Architect 2016, 2020

Arlington Magazine Top Vote Getter, Best Architect 2018, 2022

Northern Virginia magazine “Best of Northern Virginia” 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024

DC Magazine—Best of DC 2023, Luxe List 2024

Best of Houzz 2018, 2020, 2021, 2022

Build magazine “Best Residential Architect” 2019, 2020, 2021

5185 MacArthur Blvd., NW, Suite 370, Washington, D.C. 20016 202-810-6555 | seth@ballardmensua.com

www.ballardmensua.com

As a full-service architecture firm specializing in unique and custom homes and renovations, Ballard + Mensua Architecture offers far more than the typical architecture firm. They will manage the entire project, from interior design, architecture, landscaping and hardscaping to finding and managing the contractor and subs from concept through completion. “Many architects just issue a permit set and do the outside architecture and get out of the project,” says Ballard + Mensua architect and principal Seth Ballard. “We believe it is important to have an architect as the point person for the project and have everything go through us.”

Ballard + Mensua’s process is designed to help their clients make every decision on a costinformed and design-option-informed basis. Their goal is to manage dreams within the reality of budget. “Many builders and even some architects limit owner choice and information,” says Ballard. “We keep our clients very informed. We are happy to make all of the decisions or to provide detailed information for clients that want to be more involved in design.”

What makes it all worthwhile for the Ballard + Mensua team is seeing their clients’ happiness and pride when showing off the firm’s work. They provide homes that function and flow better, with organized spaces for all of the living and working and playing that families do in their homes. “We work to make dreams come true and love to see the good effects of properly designed homes with good chi,” says Ballard.

Arlington Designer Homes

ANDREW MOORE

Andrew Moore is president of Arlington Designer Homes. An Arlington native, he has served as a translator at the Arlington Free Clinic, on public school planning commissions and as president of the Custom Builders Council. He was recently presented the prestigious Best Green Building award by the Northern Virginia Building Industry Association (NVBIA).

4719 N. 24th Road

Arlington, VA 22207

703-243-1752

arlingtondesignerhomes@gmail.com

www.arlingtondesignerhomes.com

Arlington Designer Homes is a true custom builder specializing in green, energy efficient building. “As a true custom builder, we design our projects based upon what the customer needs and wants,” says company president Andrew Moore. “We use design opportunities to highlight the best aspects of the lot we are building on. Whether it is the direction that light travels or some other unique detail, we have the ability to create the design that best fits the site for our clients.”

Being an energy efficient, green builder means offering a higher standard of building. Arlington Designer Homes hires a third-party independent inspector to review their projects to ensure that the highest standards are met and exceeded. The result of this attention to detail is the

creation of more comfortable and healthier houses for their customers.

Arlington Designer Homes has been doing custom homes and remodeling for over four decades. “Whereas all projects are different, the processes through which we approach them are the same,” says Moore. “It all starts with our clients. We listen to our clients’ needs and see if we are a good fit for their expectations. In turn, we see if they are a good fit for our systems and processes.”

Arlington Designer Homes learns how their clients best communicate and works with them in that way, using tools such as weekly updates, their online client portal and on-site meetings. The ultimate goal is creating an open environment to support their clients. They build for the way you live!

Jennifer Shapira

by Stacy Zarin Goldberg

Moody Hues

Resurrecting the art of the sitting room

AFTER MOVING INTO their McLean home in March 2021, the owners of this fetching nest wasted no time renovating its main level. They hired Alexandria-based Marks-Woods Construction to open up the floor plan—removing fussy columns, arches and decorative trim in the process—and brought in Fairfax designer Ann Gottlieb to make the interiors more artful and livable. The design blends classic and vintage pieces with contemporary artworks from Merritt Gallery in Chevy Chase, Maryland.

The color palette in the sitting room, now one of the family’s favorite gathering spots, is bold, luxe and playful. A dramatic feature wall painted Benjamin Moore “Wrought Iron” provides a sophisticated backdrop for an edgy photomontage by artist Tom Chambers.

Built-in shelving by Braemar showcases books and collectibles while hiding the kids’ board games and puzzles behind cabinet doors. The custom charcoal-striped Roman shades are by Schumacher. Gottlieb suggested keeping the original mocha-stained hardwood floors—a decision the homeowners are thrilled they made.

Creative lighting is also part of the design. A sculptural Regina Andrew chandelier casts shadows through milky white glass, while bulbous glass-and-wood sconces by Hudson Valley Lighting hang on either side of another dreamlike photomontage by Chambers.

But it’s the brilliant green quartet of Scandinavian club chairs, arranged around a marble slab coffee table, that forms the room’s centerpiece. “Yeah, those Carl Hansen chairs are pretty dope,” Gottlieb says. She recalls showing the couple two fabric swatches, both jewel-toned variations of a washable velvet by HBF Textiles. Emerald was the winner.

The couple’s kids (ages 5 and 6) refer to the 145-square-foot space as the “chocolate room” because it’s where they get to savor the treats Dad brings back from his work travels.

The parents, however, describe it as more of a “rye whiskey kind of room,” an ideal spot for after-dinner drinks and conversations that linger deep into the night. ■

PROJECT CREDITS:

Marks-Woods Construction, markswoods.com

Ann Gottlieb Design, anngottliebdesign.com

Merritt Gallery, merrittgallery.com

1111 19th St. N., #2901, Arlington SALE PRICE: $5.95 MILLION

22205 (Arlington) 1154

22206 (Arlington)

22207 (Arlington) 3400

22209 (Arlington)

1111

Days on Market: 81

Listing Office: Washington Fine Properties

Neighborhood: Rosslyn

Year Built: 2008

Bedrooms: 3

Full/Half Baths: 3/2

22213 (Arlington)

6934 27th Road N.

List Price: $1.6 million

Sale Price: $1.53 million

Days on Market: 69

Listing Office: KW Metro Center

Neighborhood: Berkshire Oakwood

Year Built: 1952

Bedrooms: 6

Full/Half Baths: 4/1

22101 (McLean)

6538 Sothoron Road

List Price: $10.5 million

Sale Price: $10.1 million

Days on Market: 37

Listing Office: Carlton Equities

Neighborhood: Salona Village

Year Built: 2023

Bedrooms: 6

Full/Half Baths: 7/3

22102 (McLean)

1105 Towlston Road

List Price: $3.8 million

Sale Price: $3.4 million

Days on Market: 68

Listing Office: TTR Sotheby’s International Realty

Neighborhood: None listed

Year Built: 2011

Bedrooms: 6

Full/Half Baths: 7/3

22041 (Falls Church)

3123 Glen Carlyn Road

List Price: $1.1 million

Sale Price: $1.11 million

Days on Market: 9

Listing Office: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty

Neighborhood: Congressional Acres

Year Built: 1933

Bedrooms: 4

Full/Half Baths: 3/1

22042 (Falls Church)

3166 Ascent Road, Lot 98

List Price: $1.04 million

Sale Price: $1.01 million

Days on Market: 11

Listing Office: EYA Marketing

Neighborhood: Townhomes at Graham Park

Year Built: 2023

Bedrooms: 3

Full/Half Baths: 3/1

22043 (Falls Church)

6465 N. Rochester St.

List Price: $2.39 million

Sale Price: $2.39 million

Days on Market: 236

Listing Office: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty

Neighborhood: Westmore Gardens

Year Built: 2023

Bedrooms: 5

Full/Half Baths: 5/1

22044 (Falls Church)

3044 Hazelton St.

List Price: $1.59 million

Sale Price: $1.58 million

Days on Market: 155

Listing Office: Long & Foster Real Estate

Neighborhood: Buffalo Hill

Year Built: 2006

Bedrooms: 6

Full/Half Baths: 5/2

22046 (Falls Church)

309 W. Columbia St.

List Price: $1.3 million

Sale Price: $1.26 million

Days on Market: 7

Listing Office: EXP Realty

Neighborhood: Great Falls/Little Falls

Year Built: 1956

Bedrooms: 3

Full/Half Baths: 3/0

Real Estate Sales Trends

by David Hagedorn

Buttercream Dream

Flowers are a wonderful gift, but Jamaliyyih Perez offers something just as pretty that’s tasty, too. Her jumbo cupcakes with buttercream frosting are decorated to resemble gorgeous blossoms, such as roses, hydrangeas, sunflowers, tulips, peonies and chrysanthemums. Presented as bouquets wrapped with pastel tissue paper and cellophane, they are simply breathtaking.

“Baking has always been a passion since I was a little girl in El Salvador,” says Perez, who now lives in Arlington with her mother, sister and 16-year-old daughter. “We were really poor and didn’t even have an oven, only a stovetop burner, but I still figured out how to make my father a birthday cake.”

At 14, she applied to pastry school, but was turned down because she was too young. “After I came to the States [in 2007], I started buying baking supplies with every paycheck.”

When her mother lost her janitorial job during the pandemic, Perez launched Jam Sweet Bouquets (JAM being the first three letters of her first name) to supplement the income from her own day job as a nanny.

Made with the highest quality ingredients, her cupcakes are available in vanilla bean, chocolate, red velvet and lemon poppyseed, all topped with classic vanilla buttercream. She sells them as individual treats (about $8 apiece) or in bouquets (prices vary). Orders must be placed well in advance, as she generally offers her baked goods only on weekends. For availability, follow her on Instagram @jamsweetbouquets.

COURTESY OF JAMALIYYIH PEREZ (PORTRAIT)

Surprise! Jam Sweet’s botanical bouquets are also edible.

Arlington baker

Jamaliyyih Perez

NADIA DOMNINA (CUPCAKES)

ORDER THIS now

Hot Stuff

Husband-and-wife owners

Thi Le and Lan Tran (she’s the chef) had a smash hit on their hands with the December opening of Chay, their 50-seat vegetarian restaurant in Falls Church’s Barcroft Plaza. (Chay means vegetarian in Vietnamese.) I love their version of hot pot, which prompts diners to cook an assortment of goodies—in this case, rice noodles, soy protein, vegetarian “fish” and a panoply of vegetables— in a simmering tabletop pot of lemongrass-laced tamarind broth. But don’t leave without also sampling the banh xeo (golden rice crepe with tofu, plantbased “ham,” bean sprouts, onions and carrots) and a vegetarian “clam” dip with black sesame rice crackers. Just one word to the wise: Be judicious with the housemade hot sauce. It’s deadly! chayrestaurant.com

Gute Idea

Chay, a new destination for Vietnamese vegetarian hot pot in Falls Church

A “coffee omakase” is something I never knew I needed until I experienced one at Gute Leute, a Korean coffee shop that opened in Ballston in December.

The Japanese term omakase (which translates as “I leave it up to you”) typically refers to a chef’s tasting menu at a sushi restaurant—but in this case, the tasting centers on flights of caffeinated beverages from one of two barista-curated menus. The Special course, which changes seasonally, includes five hot and cold coffee and tea-based drinks for $35. The Signature course is a flight of four libations for $22. Many of the drinks are cold and most of them are on the sweet side, so be forewarned.

Sang Moon, a restaurant consultant and franchisee, was an original investor in the Gute Leute coffee chain, which began in Seoul. He chose Northern Virginia for its first U.S. location mostly for convenience—he lives in Fairfax and co-owns the cafe with businessperson Sean Moon (no relation). An avowed Germanophile, Sang went to college in Germany, where he was a fan of the coffee culture. Hence the shop’s name, which means “good people” in German.

The spacious, 2,100-square-foot cafe features lots of light and seating for 34, including an eight-person counter, where omakase tastings (reservations required) are held. Gute Leute also sells coffee and tea drinks, plus pastries, a la carte. The company’s logo, a pine cone, represents people’s evergreen enthusiasm for coffee.

Quaffs from the Signature menu include a drink called the pine cone (espresso, lemon juice and whipped cream in a cocoa- and sugar-rimmed cup); granita (like an affogato, but with lemon sorbet); and gute Leute (sweet espresso with caramel sauce and crumbled butterscotch cookies).

Of the seasonal specials I tried, the lavender float (espresso with oat milk and lavender whipped cream) and bubble espresso were favorites. In crafting the latter, head barista Elliott Zhang provides a bit of theater, using a special heat gun to create an enormous bubble atop a glass layered with espresso and cinnamon-infused apple juice. Popping the bubble releases apple and rosemary-scented smoke over the coffee and brings delighted smiles to those who partake. Follow @gute_leute_usa on Instagram to make an omakase reservation.

(HOT POT); COURTESY OF GUTE LEUTE (COFFEE)

Crafty beverages in Gute Leute’s “coffee omakase” lineup include a flavor-filled bubble espresso.

places to EAT

ARLINGTON

A Modo Mio Pizzeria

5555 Langston Blvd., 703-532-0990, amodomio pizza.com. Dig into authentic Neapolitan pies, house-made gnocchi, lasagna, spaghetti del mare and cannoli. o L D V $$

Aladdin Sweets & Tandoor

5169 Langston Blvd., 703-533-0077. Chef Shiuli Rashid and her husband, Harun, prepare family recipes 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.

O R L D G V $$

Arlington Kabob

5046 Langston Blvd., 703-531-1498, arlingtonka bobva.com. Authentic Afghan fare includes kebabs, shawarma and lamb shank with rice. L D $$

Astro Beer Hall

4001 Campbell Ave., 703-664-0744, astrobeer hall.com. The space-themed saloon and coffee shop promises a fun time with made-to-order doughnuts, fried chicken, burgers and old-school arcade games. o B R L D A $$

B Live

2854 Wilson Blvd., 571-312-7094, bliveva.com. Go for beach-inspired eats, a bloody mary bar and live music five nights a week. o R L D A $$

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 s

900 N. Glebe Road, 703-852-1260, ballstonlocal. com. Pair your local brew with a plate of poutine or a New York-style pizza. L D V $$

Banditos Tacos & Tequila

1301 S. Joyce St., 571-257-7622, banditostnt. com. Mexican street food, tequila, mezcal and sugar-skull décor keep the party going at this Westpost cantina. o L D G V $$

Bangkok 54

2919 Columbia Pike, 703-521-4070, bangkok54res taurant.com. A favorite for Thai curries, grilled meats, stir-fry, noodles and soups. L D V $$

Bar Bao

3100 Clarendon Blvd., 703-600-0500, barbao.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. Upscale tavern fare, plus 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 St., 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-inspired menu changes often, but you can always count on beignets and gumbo. Breakfast all day on weekends. O C B R L D G V $

Beauty Champagne & Sugar Boutique

576 23rd St. S., 571-257-5873, beautybysociety fair.com. Find champagne, cookies, cocktail fixings, small plates and gifts at this woman-owned bistro and market. Closed Mondays. L D $$

Bethesda Bagels

1851 N. Moore St., 703-312-1133, bethesdabagels. com. The popular D.C.-area chain has an outpost in Rosslyn. Eat a sandwich! O L V $

BGR the Burger Joint

3129 Langston Blvd., 703-812-4705, bgrtheburger joint.com. Top your dry-aged beef, veggie or turkey burger with add-ons like grilled jalapeño, pineapple or fried egg. C L D V $

Big Buns

Damn Good Burger Co. s 4401 Wilson Blvd., 703-276-3032; 4251 Campbell Ave., 703-933-2867, eatbigbuns.com. Satisfy your cravings with “designer” burgers, shakes, beer and booze. L D $$

KEY: Price designations are based on the approximate cost per person for a meal with one drink, tax and tip.

$ under $20

$$ $21-$35

$$$ $36-$70

$$$$ $71 or more

o Outdoor Dining

c Children’s Menu

B Breakfast

R Brunch

L Lunch

D Dinner

A After Hours/Late Night

G Gluten-Free

V Vegetarian

s Best of Arlington 2023 or 2024 Winner

Ometeo

Bluefish Bistro Sushi & Kitchen

950 S. George Mason Drive, 703-270-0102, blue fishbistro.com. Try specialty rolls with names like Green Dragon and King Kong, or go for a “chef’s choice” spread of sushi or sashimi and be surprised. Closed Tuesdays. L D G V $$

Bob & Edith’s Diner

2310 Columbia Pike, 703-920-6103; 539 23rd St. S., 703-920-2700; 5050 Langston Blvd., 703-5940280; bobandedithsdiner.com. Founded in 1969, the 24-hour eatery whips up pancakes, eggs, meatloaf, and pie à la mode. C B L D A V $

Bollywood Bistro Express

4238 Wilson Blvd. (Ballston Quarter), 571-3121071, bollywoodbistroexpress.com. Build your own bowl with fillers such as chicken tikka, paneer, chana masala and pickled onions. L D V $$

Bonsai Sushi at Crystal City

553 23rd St. S., 703-553-7723, crystalbonsai sushirestaurant.com. A go-to for sushi, sashimi, yakisoba, tempura, teriyaki. Closed Mondays. L D $$

Bostan Uyghur Cuisine

3911 Langston Blvd., 703-522-3010, bostanuyghur. com. The Uyghur Chinese dishes include kebabs, lagmen (hand-pulled noodles), manta (dumplings) and honey cake. L D $$

Brass Rabbit Public House

1210 N. Garfield St., 703-746-9977, brassrabbit pub.com. Pair carrot “fries” and lettuce wraps with craft cocktails like the El Conejo, featuring tequila, carrot juice, ginger, lime and cilantro.

O R L D V A $$

Bronson Bierhall

4100 Fairfax Drive, 703-528-1110, bronsonbier hall.com. You’ll find communal tables, German and regional beers, sausages, schnitzel and cornhole in this 6,000-square-foot ode to Munich.

O L D A $$

Bubbie’s Plant Burgers

1721 Crystal Drive, bubbiesburgers.com. Grab a plant-based or kosher burger, a fried green tomato sandwich or a plate of avocado fries at this outdoor kiosk in National Landing’s Water Park. O L D V $

Buena Vida s

2900 Wilson Blvd., 703-888-1528, buenavida gastrolounge.com. Savor the flavors of Mexico, from tacos to churros, and head to the top floor for one of the best rooftop bars around. O R L D $$

Busboys and Poets

4251 S. Campbell Ave., 703-379-9757, busboys andpoets.com. Known for its poetry slams, onsite bookstore and social justice programming, the café offers an eclectic menu with oodles of options for vegetarians. O C B R L D G V $$

The Café by Kitchen of Purpose

918 S. Lincoln St., 703-596-1557, kitchenofpur pose.org/cafe. Operated by the nonprofit Kitchen of Purpose (formerly La Cocina VA), this lunch spot serves soups, salads, sandwiches, pastries and Swing’s coffee. L V $

Café Colline

4536 Langston Blvd., 703-567-6615, cafecolline va.com. The cozy French bistro in the Lee Heights Shops satisfies with paté maison, duck confit and chocolate pots de creme. O 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 $$

Carbonara

3865 Wilson Blvd., 703-721-3905, carbonarava. com. Find house-made pastas, eggplant parm, chicken cacciatore and the spirit of Sinatra at chef Mike Cordero’s old-world-meets-modern Italian trattoria. L D V $$$

Caribbean Grill

5183 Langston Blvd., 703-241-8947. Cuban prepa-

rations such as jerk-style pork, fried plantains and black bean soup are mainstays. C L D G V $

Carlyle

4000 Campbell Ave., 703-931-0777, greatamerican restaurants.com/carlyle. The original anchor of Shirlington Village is a reliable pick for fusion fare, happy hour and Sunday brunch. O C R L D G V $$$

CarPool Beer and Billiards

900 N. Glebe Road, 703-516-7665, gocarpool. com. Mark Handwerger’s garage-themed watering hole has pool, pub grub and an extensive beer list, including “house” suds brewed at sister bar the Board Room. D A $

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 $$

The Celtic House Irish Pub & Restaurant

2500 Columbia Pike, 703-746-9644, celtichouse. net. The pub on the Pike serves up pints alongside favorites like corned beef and traditional Irish breakfast. C R L D A $$

Charga Grill

5151 Langston Blvd., 703-988-6063, chargagrill. com. How do you like your chicken? Choose Peruvian, jerk, Tandoori or Pakistani charga or sajii at this flavor-packed eatery and takeout. L D $$

Chase the Submarine

1201 S. Joyce St., 703-865-7829. Subs at this Westpost sandwich shop include meatball, banh mi, and PBJ with potato chips. L V $

Chiko s

4040 Campbell Ave., 571-312-0774, chikodc.com. Fan favorites at this Chinese-Korean joint include cumin lamb stir-fry and double-fried chicken wings.

C D G V $$

Circa at Clarendon

3010 Clarendon Blvd., 703-522-3010, circabis tros.com. Bistro fare ranges from salads and small plates to steak frites and wild mushroom pizza. Sit outside if you can. O R L D A G V $$$

Coco B’s

2854 Wilson Blvd., 571-312-7094, coladashop. com. The sister to B Live features a rooftop bar, live music, tiki drinks and tropical dishes like ceviche and jerk chicken. Closed Monday and Tuesday. O D A V $$$

Colada Shop

2811 Clarendon Blvd., 571-771-8400, coladashop. com. Hit this colorful Caribbean coffee cafe and bar for beachy vibes, tropical drinks and Cuban-inspired eats. C B R L D V $$

Colony Grill

2800 Clarendon Blvd., 703-682-8300, colonygrill. com. The Stamford, Connecticut-based pizza chain specializes in ultra-thin-crust “bar pies” with a spicy, pepper-infused hot oil topping. L D G V $$

Copperwood Tavern

4021 Campbell Ave., 703-522-8010, copperwood tavern.com. This hunting-and-fishing-themed saloon serves up steaks and chops, draft beers and 30 small-batch whiskeys. O R L D $$$

Corso Italian

4024 Campbell Ave., 703-933-8787, corsoitalian. com. Find fresh pastas, porchetta and veal chop Milanese at this Italian trattoria, a joint venture of chef Cathal Armstrong and Cheesetique “cheese lady” Jill Erber. Closed Mondays. O L D V $$$

Cowboy Café

4792 Langston Blvd., 703-243-8010, thecowboy cafe.com. Cool your heels and fill up on sandwiches, burgers, brisket and chili mac. An outdoor beer garden features a mural by Arlington artist MasPaz. Live music on weekends. O C R L D V $$

Cracked Eggery

1671 Crystal Drive, crackedeggery.com. Sand-

wiches on toasted challah include the Abe Froman (sausage, scrambled egg, cheese) and the Inigo Montoya (chorizo, fried egg, pepper-jack and arugula with lemon aioli). C O B R L $

Crush Pizza + Wine

1601 Crystal Drive, crushpizzaandwine.com. Enjoy New York-style pizza, wines by the glass and patio crushers at this al fresco dining spot in National Landing’s Water Park. O L D V $$

Crystal City Sports Pub

529 23rd St. S., 703-521-8215, ccsportspub.com. Open 365 days a year, it’s a sure bet for big-screen TVs, pool tables, trivia and poker nights, beers and bar snacks. C B R L D A G V $$

Crystal Thai

4819 First St. N., 703-522-1311, crystalthai.com. A neighborhood go-to for traditional Thai curries, grilled meats and house specialties like roast duck.

L D V $$

Dama Restaurant & Cafe

1503 Columbia Pike, 703-920-3559, damapas try.com. The Ethiopian family-owned business includes a breakfast café, market and dining room.

B L D V $$

Darna

946 N. Jackson St., 703-988-2373, darnava.com. Grilled kebabs, mezze and traditional Lebanese comfort foods are served in a modern setting. The upstairs is a hookah bar. L D V $$

DC Dosa

1731 Crystal Drive, dcdosa.com. Fill a dosa (lentil crepe) with vegan options such as masala potatoes, eggplant, crispy cauliflower and your choice of chutneys. O L D G V $

Delhi Dhaba Indian Restaurant

2424 Wilson Blvd., 703-524-0008, delhidhaba.com. The best bargain is the “mix and match” platter, which includes tandoori, seafood, a curry dish and a choice of rice or naan. O L D G V $$

Detour Coffee

946 N. Jackson St., 703-988-2378, detourcoffee co.com. This comfy cafe has a college vibe and serves up locally roasted coffee, light bites and weekend brunch. O B R L V $

District Taco

5723 Langston Blvd., 703-237-1204; 1500 Wilson Blvd., 571-290-6854; districttaco.com. A local favorite for tacos and gargantuan burritos. C B L D G V $

Don Tito

3165 Wilson Blvd., 703-566-3113, dontitova.com. Located in a historic building, the sports bar specializes in tacos, tequila and beer, with a rooftop bar. O R L D $$

Dudley’s Sport and Ale

2766 S. Arlington Mill Drive, 571-312-2304, dudleyssportandale.com. A spacious sports bar with wall-to-wall TVs, a roof deck, a ballpark-inspired beer list and weekend brunch. O C R L D A $$

Earl’s Sandwiches

2605 Wilson Boulevard, 703-647-9191, earlsinarling ton.com. Made-to-order sandwiches use prime ingredients, like fresh roasted turkey. O B L D G V $

East West Cafe

3101 Wilson Blvd., 571-800-9954, ewcafe.com. The Clarendon cafe 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. C L D G V $$

Going out in Arlington just keeps getting better.

Good Taste Lands Here

A good meal is more than just delicious food: it’s lingering over a dish, connecting with friends and neighbors, and indulging in a night that can transform into a lasting memory. From diverse, local favorites to Michelin star-rated Chef Enrique Limardo to experiences both indoors and al fresco, National Landing offers an abundance of dining options suited to every palate, season, and whim.

To learn more about the latest openings and events in National Landing visit nl.jbgsmith.com

Tiki Thai

Surreal

Events at Water Park

Dolci Gelato

Water Bar

■ places to eat

El Pike Restobar

4111 Columbia Pike, 703-521-3010, elpikerestau rant.com. Bolivian dishes satisfy at this no-frills institution. Try the salteñas stuffed with chicken or with beef, olives and hard-boiled egg. L D $

El Pollo Rico

932 N. Kenmore St., 703-522-3220, elpollorico 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 $

El Rey

4201 Wilson Blvd., 571-312-5530, elreyva.com.

The Ballston outpost of the beloved U Street taqueria serves tacos, margs and draft brews in a colorful interior featuring street-art murals by Mike Pacheco. L D A $$

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. O L D V $

Eli’s Taqueria

3207 Columbia Pike, 703-663-4777. Dig into beef birria tortas, shrimp tacos and pupusas at this homey spot (a spin-off of the Taqueria La Ceibita food truck) run by Nevi Paredes and his daughter, Yorktown alum Elizabeth Marquez. L D $

Endo Sushi

3000 Washington Blvd., 703-243-7799, endosu shi.com. A neighborly 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. O L D G $$$ Falafel Inc.

1631 Crystal Drive, falafelinc.org. Fill a pita or bowl with falafel, pickled veggies and your choice of sauces. The eatery donates a portion of its sales to feed refugees. O L D V $

Federico Ristorante Italiano

519 23rd St., 703-486-0519, federicoristorante italiano.com. Go for pasta and chianti at this trattoria co-owned by Freddie’s Beach Bar proprietor Freddie Lutz. L D V $$

Fettoosh

5100 Wilson Blvd., 703-527-7710. Overstuffed pita sandwiches and kebabs keep the kitchen fired up at this bargain-priced Lebanese and Moroccan restaurant. C R L D G V $

Fire Works

2350 Clarendon Blvd., 703-527-8700, fireworks pizza.com. Enjoy wood-fired pizzas and more than 30 craft beers on tap. You can also build your own pasta dish. O C L D A G V $$

First Down Sports Bar & Grill

4213 Fairfax Drive, 703-465-8888, firstdownsports bar.com. Three cheers for draft beers and snacks ranging from sliders to queso dip. L D A V $$

For Five Coffee Roasters

1735 N. Lynn St.; 2311 Wilson Blvd., forfive coffee.com. This micro roaster serves everything from espresso drinks to espresso martinis, plus breakfast sandwiches, acai bowls, avo toast and “stuffed” cookies. B R L G V $

Four Sisters Grill

3035 Clarendon Blvd., 703-243-9020, foursisters grill.com. A go-to for banh mi sandwiches, papaya salad, spring rolls and noodle dishes. O L D $$

Freddie’s Beach Bar

555 23rd St. S., Arlington, 703-685-0555, freddies beachbar.com. Freddie Lutz’s longstanding “gay, straight-friendly” hangout is always a party, with pink and purple Barbiecore décor, flashy drinks, drag bingo and weekend brunch. Snack on nachos, crab cakes, fried shrimp baskets and chicken wraps. O R D A 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 Langston Blvd., 703-973-2432, gharerkhabar togo.com. Translated as “home’s food,” this artfilled, 14-seat café serves Bangladeshi fare cooked by chef Nasima Shreen. L D $$

Good Company Doughnuts & Café

672 N. Glebe Road, 703-243-3000; 510 14th St. S., 703-894-1002; gocodough.com. The family- and veteran-owned eatery serves house-made doughnuts, Intelligentsia coffee and savory cafe fare. B L V $$

Good Stuff Eatery

2110 Crystal Drive, 703-415-4663, goodstuff eatery.com. Spike Mendelsohn’s Crystal City outpost offers gourmet burgers (beef, turkey or mushroom), shakes, fries and salads. L D G V $

Grand Cru Wine Bar and Bistro

4301 Wilson Blvd., 703-243-7900, grandcrubistro. com. This intimate European-style café includes a wine shop next door. O R L D G $$$

Green Pig Bistro

1025 N. Fillmore St., 703-888-1920, greenpig bistro.com. Southern-influenced food, craft cocktails, happy hour and brunch draw fans to this congenial neighborhood hideaway. R L D G V $$$

Guajillo

1727 Wilson Blvd., 703-807-0840, guajillo mexican.com. Authentic Mexican dishes such as carne asada, mole poblano and churros are favorites. O C L D G V $$

Guapo’s Restaurant

4028 Campbell Ave., 703-671-1701, guaposres taurant.com. Expect hearty portions of all the TexMex standbys—quesadillas, enchiladas, fajitas, tacos and burritos. O C R L D G V $$

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ

1119 N. Hudson St., 571-527-0445, gyu-kaku.com. Marinated meats, veggies and seafood are cooked on tabletop grills. L D $$

Gyu San

4300 Wilson Blvd., 571-312-7373, gyusan.com. Go for Japanese barbecue, sushi, soba noodles and saki. L D G $$$

Hal & Al’s BBQ

4238 Wilson Blvd., 703-400-8884, halandals bbq.com. There’s no pork on the menu at this Halal ’cue joint. Go for beef brisket, turkey sausage or beef “Dino” ribs rubbed with Old Bay and other spices. L D $$

Hanabi Ramen

3024 Wilson Blvd., 703-351-1275, hanabiramen

JENNIFER CHASE

Surreal

■ places to eat

usa.com. Slurp multiple variations of the namesake noodle dish, plus rice bowls and dumplings. L D $$

Happy Eatery

1800 N. Lynn St., 571-800-1881, thehappy eatery.com. Asian comfort foods are the draw at this Rosslyn food hall from the team behind Roll Play, Lei’d Poke and Chasin’ Tails. L D $$

Haute Dogs

2910 N. Sycamore St., 703-548-3891, hautedogs andfries.com. Cookout fare goes gourmet with hot dog toppings ranging from banh mi with sriracha mayo to a buffalo dog with blue cheese. L D $

Hawkers Asian Street Food

4201 Wilson Blvd., 703-828-8287, eathawkers. com. Satisfy that craving for hot chicken, pork belly bao and other Asian street foods, plus sake, whiskey and zero-proof quaffs. G V L D $$

Heidelberg Pastry Shoppe

2150 N. Culpeper St., 703-527-8394, heidelberg bakery.com. A local favorite for baked goods and Old Country specialties such as bratwurst and German potato salad. Closed Mondays. B L $

Highline RxR

2010-A Crystal Drive, 703-413-2337, highlinerxr. com. A Crystal City bar offering draft beers, draft wines, a whiskey menu and a retractable wall that opens up in nice weather. O L D A $$

Hot Lola’s

4238 Wilson Blvd. (Ballston Quarter), 1501 Wilson Blvd. (Rosslyn), hotlolas.com. It’s all about Kevin Tien’s Nashville-meets-Sichuan hot chicken sandwiches. L D $

Idido’s Coffee & Social House

1107 S. Walter Reed Drive, 703-253-1576, ididos socialhouse.com. Devotees go for the pastries, sandwiches and Ethiopian coffee. B L V $

Inca Social

1776 Wilson Blvd., 703-488-7640, incasocial.com. Empanadas, saltados, ceviche, sushi and pisco sours round out the menu at this Peruvian cousin to the original in Dunn Loring. R L D G V $$

Ireland’s Four Courts

2051 Wilson Blvd., 703-525-3600, irelandsfour courts.com. Stop in for a pint and an EPL game over an order of fish and chips. C R L D A $$

Istanbul Grill

4617 Wilson Blvd., 571-970-5828, istanbulgrill virginia.com. Feast on Turkish meze and kebabs at this homey spot in Bluemont. L D V $$

The Italian Store s

3123 Langston Blvd., 703-528-6266; 5837 Washington Blvd., 571-341-1080; italianstore.com. A cultstatus favorite for pizzas, sandwiches, prepared entrées, espresso and gelato. O L D G V $

Kabob Palace

2315 S. Eads St., 703-486-3535, kabobpalaceusa. com. Open 24 hours, this Crystal City storefront serves grilled Halal meats, pillowy naan and savory sides. L D A G V $$

Khun Yai Thai

2509 N. Harrison St., 703-536-1643, khunyaithai va.com. The family-owned restaurant serves “homestyle Thai” cuisine. L D G V $$

King of Koshary

5515 Wilson Blvd., 571-317-7925, kingofkoshary. com. Washington Post critic Tim Carman dubbed its menu “Egyptian food fit for royalty.” Try the hearty namesake dish, grilled branzino, beef kofta, roasted chicken or any of the tagines (stews). L D G $$

Kusshi

1201 S. Joyce St., 571-777-1998, kusshisushi. com. Feast your way through shishito peppers, sushi, oysters and mochi at this Westpost café. Or splurge for omakase. O L D G V $$$

L.A. Bar & Grill

2530 Columbia Pike, 703-685-1560, labargrill.com. Regulars flock to this dive bar on the Pike (L.A.

stands for Lower Arlington) for cold brews and pub fare. D A $$

La Coop Coffee

4807 First St. N., 571-257-7972, lacoopcoffee. com. Stop in for single-origin Guatemalan coffee, house-made horchata, breakfast sammies, empanadas and ice cream. B L $

La Côte D’Or Café

6876 Langston Blvd., 703-538-3033, lcd6876.com. This little French bistro serves standards like crepes and steak frites. O R L D G V $$$

Lebanese Taverna

5900 Washington Blvd., 703-241-8681; 1101 S. Joyce St., Pentagon Row, 703-415-8681; lebanese taverna.com. A hometown favorite for shawarma, kebabs, flatbreads and more. O C L D G V $$

The Liberty Tavern

3195 Wilson Blvd., 703-465-9360, thelibertytavern. com. This Clarendon anchor offers a spirited bar and creative cuisine fueled by two wood-burning ovens. O C R L D A G V $$$

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 $$

Lost Dog Café

5876 Washington Blvd., 703-237-1552; 2920 Columbia Pike, 703-553-7770; lostdogcafe.com. Known for its pizzas, subs and beer selection, this deli/café supports pet adoption through the Lost Dog and Cat Rescue Foundation. L D G V $$

Lucky Danger

1101 S. Joyce St., Unit B27 (Westpost), luckydanger. co. Chefs Tim Ma and Andrew Chiou put a fresh spin on Chinese American takeout with dishes such as duck fried rice and lo mein. L D V $$

Lyon Hall s

3100 N. Washington Blvd., 703-741-7636, lyonhall arlington.com. The European-style brasserie turns out French, German and Alsatian-inspired plates, from charcuterie and sausages to moules frites. O C R L D A V $$$

Mah-Ze-Dahr

1550 Crystal Drive, 703-718-4418, mahzedahr bakery.com. Café fare at this bright and tempting bakery includes coffee, pastries, focaccia, sandwiches and snacks. O B L D $

Maison Cheryl

2900 Wilson Blvd., 703-664-0509, maisoncheryl. com. Seared duck breast, steak frites and madeleines are among the offerings at this French American bistro. R L D V $$$

Maizal Latin Street Food

4238 Wilson Blvd. (Ballston Quarter), 571-3966500, maizalgrill.com. South American street food—arepas, empanadas, yuca fries, Peruvian fried rice, street corn and churros. L D V $

Makers Union

1450 S. Eads St., 703-419-3504, makersunionpub. com. Pop in for comfort food (mac ’n’ cheese, Nashville hot chicken, steak frites), creative cocktails and live music several nights a week. R L D G V $$

Mala Tang

3434 Washington Blvd., 703-243-2381, mala-tang. com. Chef Liu Chaosheng brings the tastes and traditions of his hometown, Chengdu, to this eatery specializing in Sichuan hot pot. O L D G V $$

Mario’s Pizza House

3322 Wilson Blvd., 703-525-0222, mariospizza housemenu.com. Open into the wee hours, it’s been cooking up subs, wings and pizza since 1957. O C B L D A $

Makers Union

Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls

4017 Campbell Ave., 571-431-6530, masons lobster.com. Order lobster rolls your way (butter or mayo) at this Shirlington outpost of the Annapolisbased seafood chainlet. L D $$

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 kitchen serves farm-to-table dishes like lobster pot pie, house-cured corned beef, sardines on toast, and Irish breakfast all day. O R L D $$$

Maya Bistro

5649 Langston Blvd., 703-533-7800, bistromaya. com. The family-owned restaurant serves Turkish and Mediterranean comfort food. L D V $$

McNamara’s Pub & Restaurant

567 23rd St. S., 703-302-3760, mcnamaraspub. com. Order a Guinness and some corned beef or fish and chips at this friendly watering hole on Crystal City’s restaurant row. O R L D A $$

Meda Coffee & Kitchen

5037 Columbia Pike, 571-312-0599, medacoffee kitchen.com. A casual café serving coffee, baked goods and traditional Ethiopian dishes like kitfo and tibs. C B L D G V $$

Me Jana

2300 Wilson Blvd., 703-465-4440, mejanarestau rant.com. Named for an old Lebanese folk ballad, this Middle Eastern eatery offers prime peoplewatching in Clarendon. O C L D G V $$

Mele Bistro

1723 Wilson Blvd., 703-522-0284, melebistro.com. This farm-to-table Mediterranean restaurant cooks with fresh, organic, free-range, regionally sourced, non-GMO ingredients. O R L D G V $$

Metro 29 Diner

4711 Langston Blvd., 703-528-2464, metro29. com. Classic diner fare includes triple-decker sandwiches, mile-high desserts, burgers, roasted chicken and breakfast. C B R L D V $

Mexicali Blues

2933 Wilson Blvd., 703-812-9352, mexicali-blues. com. The colorful landmark dishes out Salvadoran and Mexican chow. O C 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 $$

Mpanadas

2602 Columbia Pike, 571-312-0182, mpanadas usa.com. Try barbecue pork and cheeseburger empanadas, birthday cake paletas and java chip macaroons. B L D $

Mussel Bar & Grille

800 N. Glebe Road, 703-841-2337, musselbar.com. Chef Robert Wiedmaier’s Ballston eatery is known for mussels, frites, wood-fired pizza and more than 100 Belgian and craft beers. O L D $$

Nam-Viet

1127 N. Hudson St., 703-522-7110, namvietva.com. The venerable restaurant in what was once Arlington’s “Little Saigon” neighborhood specializes in flavors of Vietnam’s Can Tho region. O L D V $$

Nighthawk Pizza

1201 S. Joyce St., nighthawkpizza.com. Visit this Westpost brewpub and sports bar for personal pizzas (both thick and thin crust), beer and smash burgers. L D V $$

Northside Social Coffee & Wine s

3211 Wilson Blvd., 703-465-0145, northsidesocial va.com. Tucked inside a red house on the edge of Clarendon, the two-story coffee and wine bar with a big patio is always busy...which tells you something. O B L D V $$

Ocean Shack

2163 N. Glebe Road, 703-488-7161, oceanshack arlington.com. Dig into a seafood boil, a fried oyster basket or an order of fish tacos and pretend you’re at the beach. R L D A $$

Oh K-Dog

4238 Wilson Blvd. (Ballston Quarter), 703-5673376, ohkdog.com. Try a fried Korean rice dog with add-ins like sweet potato, cheddar or squid ink. L D $

Old Dominion Pizza Co.

4514 Langston Blvd., 703-718-6372, olddominion pizza.com. Order thin crust or “grandma style” pies named after local high school mascots. L D G $

Open Road

1201 Wilson Blvd., 703-248-0760, openroadgrill. com. A solid pick for burgers and beers or a proper entrée and a craft cocktail. O L D $$

Origin Coffee Lab & Kitchen

1101 S. Joyce St., 703-567-7295, origincoffeeco. com. The industrial-chic coffee shop roasts its own beans and serves all-day breakfast, bar munchies and dinner plates. O B R L D V $$

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. O D G V $$$

BALLSTON LOCAL

■ places to eat

O’Sullivan’s Irish Pub

3207 Washington Blvd., 703-812-0939, osullivans irishpub.com. You’ll find owner and County Kerry native Karen O’Sullivan behind the bar, pouring pints and cracking jokes. L D A $$

Our Mom Eugenia

4044 Campbell Ave., 571-970-0468, ourmom eugenia.com. See Falls Church listing. L D $$

Padaek

2931 S. Glebe Road, 703-888-2890, padaekdc. com. Chef Seng Luangrath’s kitchen in Arlington Ridge turns out Lao, Thai and Burmese fare—satay, curries and noodle dishes. O L D G V $$

Palette 22

4053 Campbell Ave., 703-746-9007, palette22.com. The Shirlington gallery-café specializes in international small plates and is a hoppin’ brunch spot.

O R L D V $$

Peking Pavilion

2912 N. Sycamore St., 703-237-6868. This family-owned restaurant serves standbys such as moo shu pork and beef with broccoli. L D $$

Peruvian Brothers

1450 S. Eads St., 703-625-6473, peruvianbroth ers.com. Dig into sandwiches (try the chicharron with pork, sweet potato and salsa criolla), saltados, empanadas, rotisserie chicken and power bowls. Grab a bottle of hot sauce to take home. L D V $

Peter Chang Arlington

2503-E N. Harrison St., 703-538-6688, peterchang arlington.com. The former Chinese Embassy chef brings his fiery and flavorful Sichuan cooking to the Lee Harrison Shopping Center. C L D $$

Pho 75

1721 Wilson Blvd., 703-525-7355, pho75.res taurantwebexpert.com. Purported to have curative properties, the piping-hot soup at this local institution is all about fresh ingredients. O L D V $

PhoWheels

1731 Crystal Drive, phowheelsdc.com. The popular food truck serving Vietnamese pho and banh mi now has a kiosk at Water Park. O L D G $

Pie-tanza

2503-B N. Harrison St., 703-237-0200, pie-tanza. com. Enjoy pizza (including gluten-free options), calzones, lasagna, subs and salads. C L D G V $$

Pines of Florence

2109 N. Pollard St., 703-566-0456, pinesofflor encearlingtonva.com. The classics include linguine with pesto, veal parm and chicken cacciatore, plus housemade pizza and subs. L D V $$

Pirouette Café & Wine Shop

4000 Fairfax Drive, pirouette.cafe. Pair your favorite vino with cheese, whole roasted fish, a pork cutlet for two and other enticing plates at this Ballston cafe and wine shop. L D G V $$

Poppyseed Rye

818 N. Quincy St., poppyseedrye.com. Pick up sandwiches, biscuits, salads, flower bouquets and gift items (beer and wine, too). O r L D G V $

Pupatella s

5104 Wilson Blvd.; 1621 S. Walter Reed Drive, 571-312-7230, pupatella.com. Enzo and Anastasiya Algarme’s authentic Neapolitan pies are considered among D.C.’s best. O L D V $$

Pupuseria Doña Azucena

71 N. Glebe Road, 703-248-0332, pupuseriadona azucena.com. Beans, rice and massive pupusas at dirt-cheap prices. C L D V $

Quarterdeck

1200 Fort Myer Drive, 703-528-2722, quarterdeck arlington.com. This beloved shack has served up steamed crabs for 40 years. O C L D V $$

Queen Mother’s Kitchen

1601 Crystal Drive, 703-997-8474, queenmother cooks.com. Grab a fried chicken sandwich and a

side of duck fat fries at chef Rock Harper’s kiosk in the Water Park at National Landing. O L D $

Quincy Hall

4001 Fairfax Drive, 703-567-4098, quincyhallbar. com. Go for pints, meatballs and New York-style pizza at this spacious beer hall in Ballston. L D $

Quinn’s on the Corner

1776 Wilson Blvd., 703-640-3566, quinnsonthe corner.com. Irish and Belgian favorites such as mussels, steak frites, and bangers and mash, plus draft beers and a big whiskey selection. B R L D A $$

Ragtime

1345 N. Courthouse Road, 703-243-4003, ragtime restaurant.com. Savor a taste of the Big Easy in offerings such as jambalaya, catfish, spiced shrimp and oysters. There’s a waffle and omelet bar every Sunday. O R L D A V $$

Rasa

2200 Crystal Drive, 703-888-0925, rasagrill.com. Build a bowl with options like basmati rice, chicken tikka, lamb, pickled vegetables, lentils, chutneys and yogurt sauces. O L D G V $

Ravi Kabob House

350 N. Glebe Road, 703-522-6666; 250 N. Glebe Road, 703-816-0222. Curries, kebabs and delectably spiced veggies keep this strip-mall café plenty busy. C L D V $$

The Renegade 3100 Clarendon Blvd., 703-468-4652, renegadeva. com. Is it a coffee shop, restaurant, bar or live music venue? All of the above—with snacks ranging from lambchop lollipops to lo mein. B L D A $$

Rhodeside Grill

1836 Wilson Blvd., 703-243-0145, rhodeside grill.com. Find chops, meatloaf, burgers and po’boys accompanied by every kind of hot sauce imaginable. O C R L D A V $$

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. s 3471 Washington Blvd., 703-528-9663, rocklands. com. Owner John Snedden has been slow-cooking barbecue at this Arlington favorite since 1990.

O C L D G V $

Roggenart European Bakery, Bistro & Cafe 4401 Wilson Blvd., 703-721-3182, roggenart.com. Stop in for breakfast, coffee, pastries and sandwiches on house-baked bread. B R L D V $$

Ruffino’s Spaghetti House

4763 Langston Blvd., 703-528-2242, ruffinosarling ton.com. Fill up on classics such as veal Parmigiana and chicken piccata. C L D V $$

RusUz

1000 N. Randolph St., 571-312-4086, rusuz.com. The family-run bistro serves hearty Russian and Uzbek dishes such as borscht, beef stroganoff and plov—a rice pilaf with lamb. L D $$

Ruthie’s All-Day s

3411 Fifth St. S., 703-888-2841, ruthiesallday. com. Chef Matt Hill’s “meat and three” serves up wood-smoked proteins with creative sides like crispy Brussels sprouts with fish sauce vinaigrette. Breakfast (with house-made biscuits) offered daily.

O B R L D G V $$

Ryu Izakaya

3030 Columbia Pike, 703-399-9052. A new spot on the Pike for sushi, sake and yakitori. L D G $$

Sabores Tapas Bar

2401 Columbia Pike, 571-970-1253, saboresva. com. Dig into ceviche, lomo saltado and classic

gambas al ajillo at this tapas bar on the Pike.

R L D G V $$

Saigon Noodles & Grill

1800 Wilson Blvd., 703-566-5940, saigonnoodles grill.com. Traditional Vietnamese pho, banh mi and noodle dishes round out the offerings at this restaurant and takeout owned by Jovian Ho. L D $$

Sakaki Izakaya

3227 Washington Blvd., 703-718-4931. Try mini

“sushi burgers,” Wagyu fried rice and the dazzling Egg on Egg dish (king salmon, quail egg, ikura and wasabi soy in a smoking bowl). Closed Tuesdays.

L D A G $$

Salt s

1201 Wilson Blvd., 703-875-0491, saltrosslyn.com. The speakeasy-style cocktail bar serves cheese plates and carpaccio, classic sazeracs and old-fashioneds, as well as nouveau craft cocktails. D $$

The Salt Line s

4040 Wilson Blvd., 703-566-2075, thesaltline.com. Hit this seafood-centric oyster bar for clam chowder, lobster rolls, stuffies, smash burgers and fun cocktails. c O R D $$$

Samuel Beckett’s Irish Gastro Pub

2800 S. Randolph St., 703-379-0122, samuel becketts.com. A modern Irish pub serving Emerald Isle recipes. O C R L D A G V $$

Santé

1250 S. Hayes St. (inside the Ritz-Carlton), 703412-2762, meetatsante.com. Mediterranean fare includes shrimp saganaki, whole roasted branzino and lamb “osso bucco.” B R L D G V $$$

Sawatdee Thai Restaurant

2250 Clarendon Blvd., 703-243-8181, sawatdeeva. com. The friendly eatery (its name means “hello”) is frequented by 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 and bottle shop offers tastings, wine classes, and small plates for sharing and pairing. O C R L D G V $$

Seamore’s

2815 Clarendon Blvd., 703-721-3384, seamores. com. Dine on sustainably sourced seafood, from clams and mussels to arctic char and yellowfin tuna. Brunch on weekends. O R L D G V $$$

Seoulspice

1735 N. Lynn St., 703-419-5868, seoulspice.com. Korean fast-casual comfort food, anyone? L D G V $

SER

1110 N. Glebe Road, 703-746-9822, ser-restau rant.com. Traditional Spanish and Basque dishes in a colorful, friendly space with outstanding service.

O R L D V $$$

Sfoglina Pasta House

1100 Wilson Blvd., sfoglinapasta.com/rosslyn. Fabio Trabocchi’s urbane trattoria serves housemade pasta (you can watch it being made), a “mozzarella bar” and Italian cocktails. Closed Sundays.

O L D V $$$

Silver Diner

4400 Wilson Blvd., 703-812-8600, silverdiner. com. The kitchen cooks with organic ingredients, many of which are sourced from local suppliers. Low-calorie and gluten-free menu choices available. O C B R L D A G V $$

Skydome

300 Army Navy Drive, 703-416-3862, hilton.com. Savor craft cocktails, Mediterranean-influenced dishes and views of the D.C. skyline in this revolving restaurant atop the DoubleTree Hilton in Crystal City. Closed Sunday and Monday. D G V $$$

Sloppy Mama’s Barbeque

5731 Langston Blvd., 703-269-2718, sloppyma mas.com. Joe and Mandy Neuman’s barbecue joint offers wood-smoked meats galore, plus pimento

cheese, hearty sides and banana pudding for dessert. O B R L D V $$

Smokecraft Modern Barbecue

1051 N. Highland St., 571-312-8791, smokecraft bbq.com. Every menu item here is kissed by smoke, from ribs, crabcakes and spaghetti squash to the chocolate cherry bread pudding on the dessert list. O L D G V $$

Snouts & Stouts

2709 S. Oakland St., 571-317-2239, snouts nstouts.com. Grab a beer and some pulled-pork pretzel bites with beer cheese while your pup runs around this indoor dog park and bar. L D $

Soul Thai Kitchen & Bar

6035 Wilson Blvd., 703-300-9655, soulthaikitchen andbar.com. The restaurant in the former Meridian Pint space serves curries, noodle dishes and other Thai classics. L D G V $

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; 1350 S. Eads St., 703-465-8423; southblock.com. Cold-pressed juices, smoothies and acai bowls.

O B L V $

Sparrow Room

1201 S. Joyce St., 571-451-7030, sparrowroom. com. Scott Chung’s back-room mahjong parlor presents dim sum and Chinese-inspired craft cocktails in a sultry setting. Open Thursday through Sunday, 5-11 p.m. D $$

Spice Kraft Indian Bistro

1135 N. Highland St., 703-527-5666, spicekraft va.com. This contemporary concept by restaura-

teurs Anthony Sankar and Premnath Durairaj gives Indian classics a modern spin. O L D $$

Spider Kelly’s

3181 Wilson Blvd., 703-312-8888, spiderkellys.com. The “come as you are” bar offers a sizable beer list, creative cocktails, salads, burgers, snacks and breakfast at all hours. C D A G V $$

Stellina Pizzeria

2800 S. Randolph St., 703-962-7884, stellina pizzeria.com. Pay a visit for Neapolitan pies, fried artichokes and a deli counter with house-made pastas, sauces and dolci to take home. O L D $$

Supreme Hot Pot

2301 Columbia Pike, 571-666-1801, supreme hotpot.kwickmenu.com. This Pike eatery specializes in Szechuan hot pot, skewered meats and a few Cajun seafood dishes. D G $$

Surreal

2117 Crystal Drive, surrealpark.com. Find playful dishes like a foot-long Boomdog, “swirl” pancakes and old-fashioneds made with cornflake-infused whiskey at chef Enrique Limardo’s all-day diner in National Landing. O B L D $$

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. C L D V $$

Sweetgreen

4075 Wilson Blvd., 703-522-2016; 3100 Clarendon Blvd., 571-290-3956; 575 12th Road S., 703-888-

1025; 2200 Crystal Drive, 703-685-9089; sweet green.com. Locally grown ingredients and compostable cutlery make this salad and yogurt chain a hub for the green-minded. O C L D G V $

Sweet Leaf

2200 Wilson Blvd., 703-525-5100; 800 N. Glebe Road, 703-522-5000; 650 N. Quincy St., 703527-0807; sweetleafcafe.com. Build your own sandwiches and salads. O C B L D $$

Taco Bamba s

4000 Wilson Blvd., 571-777-1477; 4041 Campbell Ave., 571-257-3030; tacobamba.com. Taco options range from classic carnitas to cheffy creations like the El Rico Pollo, stuffed with chicken, green chili, aji Amarillo aioli and crispy potato. B L D V $

Taco Rock

1501 Wilson Blvd., 571-775-1800, thetacorock. com. This rock-themed watering hole keeps the Micheladas flowing alongside tacos on housemade blue-corn tortillas. B L D V $$

Taqueria el Poblano

2503-A N. Harrison St., 703-237-8250, taqueria poblano.com. Fresh guacamole, fish tacos, margaritas and mole verde transport patrons to the Yucatan. C L D G V $$

Tatte Bakery and Café

2805 Clarendon Blvd., 571-312-8691, tattebakery. com. Grab a breakfast sandwich, tartine, panini or grain bowl from the all-day menu, or keep it simple with a coffee and pastry. O B R 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—

■ places to eat

which you can undo with a visit to its tantalizing bakery next door. C B R L D G V $$

Texas Jack’s Barbecue

2761 Washington Blvd., 703-875-0477, txjacks.com. Brisket, ribs and pulled pork, plus sides like raw carrot salad and smashed cucumbers. O L D A $$

T.H.A.I. in Shirlington

4209 Campbell Ave., 703-931-3203, thaiinshirling ton.com. Pretty dishes include lemongrass salmon with black sticky rice. O L D G V $$$

Thai Noy

5880 Washington Blvd., 703-534-7474, thainoy.com. Shimmering tapestries and golden Buddhas are the backdrop in this destination for Thai noodles, curries and rice dishes. L D $$

Thai Square

3217 Columbia Pike, 703-685-7040, thaisquarerestaurant.com. Enjoy options ranging from crispy squid with basil and roasted duck curry to pig knuckle stew. O L D G V $$

Tiger Dumplings

3225 Washington Blvd., 571-970-4512, tiger dumplings.com. There are dumplings, of course, plus five-spice beef, roast duck and vegan options like tofu skin with peanuts. L D G V $$

Tiki Thai

1651 Crystal Drive, tikithai.com. Order up a round up tiki drinks, some Thai spring rolls and khao soi noodles. O L D $$

TNR Cafe

2049 Wilson Blvd., 571-217-0766, tnrcafe.com. When you have a hankering for Peking duck, moo shu chicken, Szechuan beef or bubble tea. L D G V $$

Toby’s Homemade Ice Cream

5849-A Washington Blvd., 703-536-7000; 510 14th St. S.; tobysicecream.com. Stop in for cups, cones, floats and sundaes. Coffee, pastries and bagels available in the morning. B L D V $

Tortas Y Tacos La Chiquita

2911 Columbia Pike, 571-970-2824, tortasytacosla chiquita.com. The beloved eatery that started as a food truck does tacos, alambres, huarache platters, flautas and more. B L D $

Trade Roots

5852 Washington Blvd., 571-335-4274, fairtrade roots.com. The Westover gift shop and cafe serves fair-trade coffee, tea, pastries, salads, organic wine and snackable small plates. O B L $

Troy’s Italian Kitchen

2710 Washington Blvd., 703-528-2828, troysitalian kitchen.com. Palak and Neel Vaidya’s mom-andpop serves pizza, pasta and calzones, including a lengthy vegan menu with options like “chicken” tikka masala pizza. L D G V $

True Food Kitchen s

4238 Wilson Blvd. (Ballston Quarter), 703-5270930, truefoodkitchen.com. Emphasizing “anti-inflammatory” fare, the menu will convince you that healthy tastes good. O L D G V $$

Tupelo Honey Café

1616 N. Troy St., 703-253-8140, tupelohoneycafe. com. The Southern fusion menu includes dishes like roasted snapper with sweet potato and farro. C R L D $$

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. O C R L D $$$

UnCommon Luncheonette

1028 N. Garfield St., 571-210-0159, uncommon luncheonette.com. The comfort fare at this Manhat-

tan-style diner includes biscuits and gravy, poutine and Nashville hot chicken sandwiches. B L $$

Upside on Moore

1700 N. Moore St., upsideonmoore.com. Rosslyn’s newest food hall includes DMV concepts Ghostburger, Stellina Pizzeria, Lucky Danger, Laoban Dumplings and a rotating roster of international pop-ups.

L D G V $$

Urban Tandoor

801 N. Quincy St., 703-567-1432, utandoorva.com. Sate your appetite with Indian and Nepalese fare, from tandoori lamb to Himalayan momos (dumplings). Lunch buffet daily. L D V $$

Variedades Catrachas Restaurant

3709 Columbia Pike, 703-888-0906, variedades catrachas.com. The Latin fare at this nearly 24-hour homey Honduran eatery includes huevos rancheros, pupusas, carne asada, fried fish with plantains, cervezas, tequila drinks and horchata. B L D A G V $

Water Bar

1601 Crystal Drive, nlwaterbar.com. The succinct menu at this sleek oyster and cocktail bar overlooking National Landing’s Water Park includes salads, sandwiches and sharable seafood dishes. O L D G V $$

Weenie Beenie

2680 Shirlington Road, 703-671-6661, weenie beenie.net. The hot dog stand founded in 1954 is still serving half smokes, bologna-and-egg sandwiches and pancakes. B L D $

Westover Market & Beer Garden

5863 N. Washington Blvd., 703-536-5040, westo vermarketbeergarden.com. It’s a hive for burgers, draft microbrews and live music. O C L D A $$

Westover Taco

5849 Washington Blvd., 703-297-3030, westover taco.com. Tacos, guac, margs and beer keep things casual at this neighborhood hangout. L D V A $

Which Wich

4300 Wilson Blvd., 703-566-0058, whichwich.com. A seemingly endless menu of sandwiches and wraps with more than 60 toppings. O B L D V $$

Whino

4238 Wilson Blvd., 571-290-3958, whinova.com. Part restaurant/bar and part art gallery, this latenight spot features cocktails, shareable plates, brunch, street-art murals and “low brow” art exhibits. R L D A $$

William Jeffrey’s Tavern

2301 Columbia Pike, 703-746-6333, william jeffreystavern.com. This pub on the Pike features Prohibition-era wall murals and mixes a mean martini. O C R L D A G V $$

Wilson Hardware

2915 Wilson Boulevard, 703-527-4200, wilson hardwareva.com. Order a boozy slushy and head to the whimsical roof deck. The menu includes small plates, burgers and entrées like steak frites and duck confit. O R L D A G V $$$

Ya Hala Bistro

5216 Wilson Blvd., yahalabistrolounge.com. Enjoy shawarma, kabobs and traditional mezze at this cocktail and hookah lounge in Bluemont.

L D A G V $$

Yayla Bistro

2201 N. Westmoreland St., 703-533-5600, yayla bistro.com. A cozy little spot for Turkish small plates, flatbreads and seafood. Pita wraps available for lunch only. O C L D $$

Yume Sushi

2121 N. Westmoreland St., 703-269-5064, yume sushiva.com. East Falls Church has a destination for sushi, omakase (chef’s tasting menu) and a sake bar with craft cocktails. L D V G $$$

FALLS CHURCH

2941 Restaurant

2941 Fairview Park Drive, 703-270-1500, 2941. com. French chef Bertrand Chemel’s sanctuary-like spot offers beautifully composed seasonal dishes and expert wine pairings. C L D V $$$$

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 diner serves standbys like spaghetti, pizza, gyros and subs, plus breakfast on weekends. R L D V $$

B Side

8298 Glass Alley (Mosaic District), 703-676-3550, bsidecuts.com. Nathan Anda’s charcuterie, smashburgers and beef-fat fries steal the show at this cozy bar adjoining Red Apron Butcher. L D $$

Badd Pizza

346 W. Broad St., 703-237-2233, baddpizza.com. Order a Buffalo-style “cup-and-char” pepperoni pie and a baddbeer IPA, locally brewed by Lost Rhino Brewing Co. L D $$

Bakeshop

100 E. Fairfax St., 703-533-0002, bakeshopva.com. See Arlington listing. B V $

Balqees Restaurant

5820 Seminary Road, 703-379-0188, balqeesva. com. The Lebanese and Yemeni specialties include lamb in saffron rice, saltah (a vegetarian stew) and saffron cake with crème anglaise. O L D V $$

Bamian

5634 Leesburg Pike, 703-820-7880, bamianres taurant.com. Try Afghan standards like palau (seasoned lamb with saffron rice) and aushak (scallion dumpling topped with yogurt, meat sauce and mint). C L D V $$

Bartaco

2920 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 571-549-8226, bartaco.com. See Arlington listing. L D V A $$

Bing & Bao

7505 Leesburg Pike, 703-734-0846, bingandbao. com. Chinese street foods are the main attraction at this fast-casual eatery. Founders Rachel Wang and Mark Shen hail from Tianjin, China. L D V $

Caboose Commons

2918 Eskridge Road (Mosaic District), 703-6638833, caboosebrewing.com. The microbrewery has a hopping patio. Order house brews and creative eats, from wings and fried pickles to plant-based buddha bowls. O L D V A $$

Café Kindred

450 N. Washington St., 571-327-2215, cafe kindred.com. Pop in for a yogurt parfait, avocado toast, grilled eggplant sandwich, or an espresso fizz. B R L V $$

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.

C B L D G V $

Chasin’ Tails

944 W. Broad St., 571-777-9596, chasintailsss. com. The Viet-Cajun menu includes crawfish boils, char-broiled kimchi oysters and scallop crudo with citrus vinaigrette. L D $$

Chay Restaurant

6531 Columbia Pike, 571-378-1771, chayrestau rant.com. A destination for vegetarian hot pot, spring rolls, noodles and other plant-based Vietnamese specialties. L D G V $

Clare & Don’s Beach Shack

130 N. Washington St., 703-532-9283, clareand dons.com. Go coastal with fish tacos, coconut chicken or one of the many meatless options, and maybe catch some live outdoor music. Closed Mondays. O C L D A G V $$

Colada Shop

2920 District Ave., 703-962-3002, coladashop. com. The Mosaic District “cafecito” attached to Bloomie’s hits the spot with empanadas, Cuban sandwiches, strong coffee and vacation-y cocktails. O B R L D V $$

District Dumplings

2985 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 703-884-7080, districtdumplings.com. Asian-style dumplings, sandwiches and wraps. L D $$

District Taco

5275-C Leesburg Pike, 571-699-0660, district taco.com. See Arlington listing. C B L D G V $

Dogwood Tavern

132 W. Broad St., 703-237-8333, dogwoodtav ern.com. The menu has something for everyone, from ancient grain Buddha bowls to jambalaya, burgers and coconut-curry salmon.

O C R L D A V $$

Dominion Wine & Beer

107 Rowell Court, 703-533-3030, dominionwine andbeer.com. Pairings come easy when a café shares its space with a wine and beer shop. Order up a plate of sliders, a cheese board or some Dragon shrimp to snack on while you imbibe.

O R L D V $$

Duangrat’s

5878 Leesburg Pike, 703-820-5775, duangrats. com. Waitresses in traditional silk dresses glide through the dining room bearing fragrant curries and grilled meats at this longstanding destination for Thai cuisine. O R L D V $$

El Tio Tex-Mex Grill

7630 Lee Highway, 703-204-0233, eltiogrill.com. A family-friendly spot for fajitas, enchiladas, lomo saltado, combo plates and margaritas. O L D $$

Elephant Jumps Thai Restaurant

8110-A Arlington Blvd., 703-942-6600, elephant jumps.com. Creative and comforting Thai food in an intimate strip-mall storefront. L D G V $$

Elevation Burger

442 S. Washington St., 703-237-4343, elevation burger.com. See Arlington listing. O L D V $

Ellie Bird s

125 Founders Ave., 703-454-8894, elliebirdva. com. From the owners of D.C.’s Michelin-starred Rooster & Owl, a neighborly place serving cheffy dishes such as kimchi bouillabaisse, octopus ceviche and braised lamb shank alongside kid-friendly fare. c o D G V $$$

The Falls Restaurant & Bar

370 W. Broad St., 703-237-8227, thefallsva.com.

Chef Harper McClure turns out crabcakes, clever salads and other seasonal dishes in the restaurant formerly known as Liberty Barbecue. But don’t worry, Liberty fans: The fried chicken and brisket are still on the menu. O R L D G V $$$

Fava Pot

7393 Lee Highway, 703-204-0609, favapot.com. Visit Dina Daniel’s restaurant, food truck and cater-

ing operation for Egyptian eats such as stewed fava beans with yogurt and lamb shanks with okra. And oh the bread! B L D G V $$

First Watch

5880 Leesburg Pike, 571-977-1096, firstwatch. com. Popular dishes at this breakfast and lunch café include eggs Benedict, lemon-ricotta pancakes, housemade granola, power bowls and avocado toast. O CB R L V $$

Godfrey’s Bakery & Café

421 W. Broad St., 571-378-1144, godfreysbakery cafe.com. Pop in for breakfast sandwiches, housebaked breads and pastries, grazing boards, Romanstyle pizza and Illy coffee drinks. B R L D V $$

Haandi Indian Cuisine

1222 W. Broad St., 703-533-3501, haandi.com. The perfumed kebabs, curries and biryani incorporate northern and southern Indian flavors. L D V G $$

Harvey’s

513 W. Broad St., 540-268-6100, harveysva.com. Chef Thomas Harvey’s casual café brings roasted chicken, beer-cheese cheesesteaks, banana splits and other comfort fare to the City of Falls Church. O C B R L D V $$

Hong Kong Palace

6387 Seven Corners Center, 703-532-0940, hong kongpalacedelivery.com. This kitchen caters to both ex-pat and American tastes with an enormous menu of options. C L D $$

Hong Kong Pearl Seafood Restaurant

6286 Arlington Blvd., 703-237-1388. Two words: dim sum. L D A V $$

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. C L D G V $$

Ireland’s Four Provinces

105 W. Broad St., 703-534-8999, 4psva.com. The family-friendly tavern in the heart of Falls Church City serves pub food and Irish specialties. O C B R L D $$

Jinya Ramen Bar

2911 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 571-3272256, jinyaramenbar.com. Embellish your tonkotsu or umami-miso broth with more than a dozen toppings and add-ins. O L D A V $$

JV’s Restaurant

6666 Arlington Blvd., 703-241-9504, jvsrestaurant. com. A dive bar (the best kind) known for its live music, cold beer and home-cooked meatloaf, lasagna and chili. L D A V $$

Kirby Club

2911 District Ave., 571-430-3650, kirbyclub. com. From the owners of D.C.’s Michelin-starred Mayd¯an, a lively kebab concept (with a great bar) that allows diners to mix-and-match proteins, dips and sauces. R D V $$

Koi Koi Sushi & Roll

450 W. Broad St., 703-237-0101, koikoisushi. com. The sushi is fresh and the vibe is fun. Teriyaki, tempura and bento boxes round out the menu.

O L D $$

Kreole

2985 District Ave., 571-378-1721, kreoleseafood. com. Love seafood? Choose your preferred catch, pick a sauce and a spice level, and then pile on add-ons like sausage, ramen noodles or Old Bay fries. Or dig into a pile of steamed crabs. D $$

Lantern House Viet Bistro

1067 West Broad St., 703-268-2878, lantern houseva.com. Satisfy that craving for pho, noodles and banh mi at this family-owned Vietnamese eatery. L D G V $$

Lazy Mike’s Delicatessen

7049 Leesburg Pike, 703-532-5299, lazymikes

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deli.com. A Falls Church institution churning out homemade ice cream, packed sandwiches and breakfast faves. O CB R L D G V $

La Tingeria

626 S. Washington St., 571-316-6715. A popular food truck in Arlington since 2012, David Peña’s concept also has a brick-and-mortar location in Falls Church. The queso birria tacos are a must. Open Wednesday-Sunday. L D $

Little Saigon Restaurant

6218-B Wilson Blvd., 703-536-2633, littlesaigon

■ places to eat

restaurant.us. Authentic Vietnamese in a no-frills setting. O L D $$

Loving Hut

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. The food menu includes U.K. and American pub standards. O R L D $$

Mark’s Duck House

6184-A Arlington Blvd., 703-532-2125. Though named for its specialty—Peking duck—it also offers plenty of other tantalizing options, such as short ribs, roasted pork and dim sum. R L D A V $$

Meaza Restaurant

5700 Columbia Pike, 703-820-2870, meazares taurant.com. Well-seasoned legumes and marinated beef are signatures in this vivid Ethiopian banquet hall. O C L D G V $$

Met Khao

6395 Seven Corners Center, 703-533-9480, padaekdc.com. Chef Seng Luangrath has transformed the former Padaek space into a fast-casual eatery serving Thai and Laotian fare. L D G V $

Miu Kee

6653 Arlington Blvd., 703-237-8884. Open late, this strip-mall hideaway offers Cantonese, Sichuan and Hunan dishes. L D A $$

Moby Dick House of Kabob

444 W. Broad St., 703-992-7500, mobyskabob.com. See Arlington listing. L D $$

Mom & Pop

2909 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 703-9920050, dolcezzagelato.com. The little glass cafe serves light fare, snacks, gelato, coffee, beer and wine. O B R L D A $$

Nhu Lan Sandwich

6763 Wilson Blvd., 703-532-9009, nhulancafe.com. This tiny Vietnamese deli at Eden Center is a favorite for banh mi sandwiches. L D V $

Northside Social Falls Church s

205 Park Ave., 703-992-8650, northsidesocial va.com. Come by in the morning for a breakfast sandwich and a latte. Return in the evening for a glass of wine and a plate of charcuterie, or a woodfired pizza.

O B L D V $$

Nue

944 W. Broad St., 571-777-9599, nuevietnamese. com. The elegant Viet-modern menu (think grilled oysters, coconut-curry risotto and a seafood tower with yuzu nuoc cham) has a stunning space to match. R L D G $$$

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. O C 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.

C B R G V $

Our Mom Eugenia

2985 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 434-3394019, ourmomeugenia.com. This family-owned spot is beloved for its real-deal Greek fare, from saganaki to souvlaki. O L D $$

Panjshir Restaurant

114 E. Fairfax St., 703-536-4566, panjshirrestau rant.com. Carnivores go for the kebabs, but the vegetarian chalows elevate pumpkin, eggplant and spinach to new levels. O L D V $$

Parc de Ville

8926 Glass Alley (Mosaic District), 703-663-8931, parcdeville.com. Find French fare such as salmon rillettes, duck confit, tuna nicoise and steak frites at this spacious Parisian-style brasserie. Hit the rooftop lounge for cocktails. O R L 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. C L D G 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 $$

Pho Ga Vang

6767 Wilson Blvd., 571-375-8281, phogavang. com. Find more than 12 kinds of pho, plus other Vietnamese homestyle dishes at this Eden Center café. L D G $$

Plaka Grill

1216 W. Broad St., 703-639-0161, plakagrill.com. Pop in for super satisfying Greek eats—dolmas, souvlaki, moussaka, spanakopita. L D V $$

Preservation Biscuit

102 E. Fairfax St., 571-378-1757, preservation biscuit.com. Order the signature carb with housemade jams, or as a sandwich with fillers ranging from fried chicken to guac and egg. O C B L V $

Pupuseria La Familiar

308 S. Washington St., 703-995-2528, pupuseria lafamiliar.com. The family-owned Salvadoran eatery turns out pupusas, fried yucca, chicharron, carne asada and horchata. L D $$

Puzukan Tan

8114 Arlington Blvd., 571-395-4727, puzukantan. com. From brothers Sam and Kibum Kim comes this Korean barbecue destination featuring tabletop grills, dry-aged meats, banchan and ramen. O L D $$$

Raaga Restaurant

5872 Leesburg Pike, 703-998-7000, raagarestau rant.com. Chicken tikka, lamb rogan josh and cardamom-infused desserts. O 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 makes an artful latte. Try one of the seasonal specials. L D $

Rasa

2905 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 571-3780670, rasa.co. See Arlington listing. L D G V $

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 $$

Roll Play

944 W. Broad St., 571-777-9983, rollplaygrill. com. Stop by this Founders Row eatery for Viet street foods such as banh mi, pho and build-yourown rice paper rolls. L D G V $$

Settle Down Easy Brewing

2822 Fallfax Drive, 703-573-2011, settledowneasy brewing.com. Pair a pint from the nanobrewery’s

rotating beer list with tacos from neighboring El Tio Tex-Mex Grill. Closed Mondays. O L D $

Sfizi Café

800 W. Broad St., 703-533-1191, sfizi.com. A family-owned trattoria, deli and wine shop serving classic Italian fare—pasta, pizza, parm. L D $$

Silver Diner

8150 Porter Road, 703-204-0812, silverdiner.com. See Arlington listing. C B R L D A G V $$

Sisters Thai

2985 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 703-280-0429, sistersthai.com. The menu is traditionally Thai, but the vibe feels like you’re dining in your cool friend’s shabby-chic living room. L D G V $$

Solace Outpost

444 W. Broad St., 571-378-1469, solaceoutpost. com. The Little City microbrewery serves housebrewed suds, plus fried chicken, five kinds of fries and wood-fired pizza. D A V $$

Spacebar

709 W. Broad St., 703-992-0777, spcbr.com. This diminutive and funky bar offers 24 craft beers on tap and 18 variations on the grilled cheese sandwich. D A V $$

Sweetgreen

2905 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 703-9927892, sweetgreen.com. See Arlington listing. O C L D G V $

Sweetwater Tavern

3066 Gatehouse Plaza, 703-645-8100, great americanrestaurants.com. A modern alehouse serving seafood, chicken, ribs, microbrews and growlers to go. C L D G $$$

Taco Bamba s

2190 Pimmit Drive, 703-639-0505, tacobambares taurant.com. Tacos range from traditional carne asada to the vegan “Iron Mike,” stuffed with cauliflower, salsa macha and mole verde. B L D $

Taco Rock

1116 W. Broad St., 703-760-3141, thetacorock. com. See Arlington listing. o B L D V $$

Takumi Sushi

310-B S. Washington St., 703-241-1128, takumi va.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.

C B R L D $$

Thompson Italian

124 N. Washington St., 703-269-0893, thompson italian.com. Gabe and Katherine Thompson’s celebrated kitchen turns out house-made pastas and some of the best desserts around. O C D $$$

Trio Grill

8100 Lee Highway, 703-992-9200, triomerrifield. com. Treat yourself to steaks, seafood, raw bar, craft cocktails and live piano music. O D $$$

True Food Kitchen s

2910 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 571-3261616, truefoodkitchen.com. See Arlington listing. O C 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 $$

MCLEAN

Agora Tysons

7911 Westpark Drive, 703-663-8737, agoratysons. com. The Dupont Circle mezze restaurant brings its Turkish, Greek and Lebanese small plates to a second outpost in Tysons. R L D G V $$$

Amoo’s Restaurant

6271 Old Dominion Drive, 703-448-8500, amoos restaurant.com. The flavorful kebabs and stews are crowd pleasers at this hospitable Persian establishment. O C L D G V $$

Aracosia s

1381 Beverly Road, 703-269-3820, aracosia mclean.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). O L D V $$

Badd Pizza

6263 Old Dominion Drive, 703-356-2233, badd pizza.com. See Falls Church listing. L D $$

Big Buns Damn Good Burger Co. s

1340 Chain Bridge Road, 571-456-1640, eatbig buns.com. See Arlington listing. L D $$

Café Tatti French Bistro

6627 Old Dominion Drive, 703-790-5164, cafe tatti.com. Open since 1981, this romantic little bistro whips up classic French and continental fare. Closed Sundays. L D G V $$$

Call Your Mother Lil’ Deli

6216 Old Dominion Drive, 571-395-9097, call yourmotherdeli.com. The wildly popular “Jew-ish” deli serves bagel sandwiches and babka muffins from a pink trailer in the Chesterbrook Shopping Center. o b R L V $

Capri Ristorante Italiano

6825-K Redmond Drive, 703-288-4601, capri mcleanva.com. Known for tried-and-true dishes like spaghetti carbonara and veal Marsala.

O C L D G V $$$

Circa

1675 Silver Hill Drive, 571-419-6272, circabistros. com. See Arlington listing. O L D V $$$

Eddie V’s Prime Seafood

7900 Tysons One Place, 703-442-4523, eddiev. com. Total steakhouse vibe, except with an emphasis on seafood (and steaks, too). L D G $$$$

Él Bebe

8354 Broad St., 571-378-0171, el-bebe.com. Feast on tamales, tacos, street corn, mole and tequila-based cocktails. C O L D V $$

El Tio Tex-Mex Grill

1433 Center St., 703-790-1910, eltiogrill.com. See Falls Church listing. L D $$

Esaan Tumbar

1307 Old Chain Bridge Road, 703-288-3901, esaanmclean.com. This tiny 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. This meaty 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 spacious farm-to-table restaurant features Virginia-sourced 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, jgil berts.com. Everything you’d expect in a steakhouse and lots of it—prime cuts of beef, lobster, wedge salad, steak-cut fries and cheesecake.

C R L D G V $$$

Joon

8045 Leesburg Pike, 571-378-1390, eatjoon.com. Savor refined Persian dishes such as lamb-pistachio meatballs with pomegranate glaze and rotisserie-style duck with sour-cherry rice.

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 $$

The Kitchen Collective

8045 Leesburg Pike, Suite L160, 571-378-0209, tkcfoodhall.com. The takeout-only “virtual food hall” has pizza, kebabs, acai bowls, cookies and much more. C L D G V $$

Kura Sushi

8461 Leesburg Pike, 571-544-7122, kurasushi. com. Choose maki and nigiri from a revolving conveyor belt at this Tysons sushi bar, where drinks are served by a robot. L D G V $$

Lebanese Taverna

1840 International Drive, 703-847-5244, lebanesetaverna.com. See Arlington listing. O C L D G V $$

Lost Dog Café

1690-A Anderson Road, 703-356-5678, lostdog cafe.com. See Arlington listing. L D $$

Maman Joon

1408 Chain Bridge Road, 571-342-4838, maman joonkitchen.com. Find dolmeh, falafel, lamb shank and kebabs (plus a built-in Z Burger with shakes in 75 flavors) at this Persian eatery. L D V $$

Masala Indian Cuisine

1394 Chain Bridge Road,703-462-9699, masa lava.com. A specialty here are “momos,” Nepalese dumplings with meat or vegetable fillings. The menu also includes tandoori biryani and Indian curries. L D V $$

McLean Family Restaurant

1321 Chain Bridge Road, 703-356-9883, themcleanfamilyrestaurant.com. Pancakes, gyros and big plates of lasagna hit the spot. Breakfast served until 3 p.m. daily. C B L D V $$

Miyagi Restaurant

6719 Curran St., 703-893-0116. The diminutive sushi bar gets high marks for its friendly service and fresh maki and nigiri. L D $$

Moby Dick House of Kabob

6854 Old Dominion Drive, 703-448-8448; 1500 Cornerside Blvd., 703-734-7000; mobyskabob.com. See Arlington listing. L D $$

Mylo’s Grill

6238 Old Dominion Drive, 703-533-5880, mylos grill.com. Enjoy spanakopita, souvlaki and American classics like burgers and cheesesteaks. Friday is prime-rib night. O B L D $$

Ometeo

1640 Capital One Drive N., 703-748-7170, ometeo texmex.com. An upscale “texmexeria” with Mexican

renditions of duck, venison, beef and a wide variety of sea creatures. O L D G $$$

Pasa-Thai Restaurant

1315 Old Chain Bridge Road, 703-442-0090, pasa thaimclean.com. Go for a classic Bangkok curry, or a chef’s special such as spicy fried rockfish with chili-basil-garlic sauce. O L D $$

Patsy’s American

8051 Leesburg Pike (Tysons), 703-552-5100, pat sysamerican.com. For those who find comfort in the familiar, Patsy’s serves greatest-hit dishes from other Great American Restaurants properties in a space resembling a vintage railway station. O C R L D A G V $$

Peter Chang McLean

6715 Lowell Ave., 571-405-6686, peterchang mclean.com. See Arlington listing. L D G V $$

Pikoteo

6811 Elm St., 703-891-0123, pikoteo-usa.com. Escape to warmer climes with Latin and Caribbean delights such as ceviche, arepas, mofongo, smoked pork ribs and arroz con pollo. O R L D $$

Pulcinella Italian Kitchen

1310 Chain Bridge Road, 703-893-7777, pulcinellarestaurant.com. A stop for classic spaghetti and meatballs, linguine and clams and wood-fired pizza since 1985. L D $$

Randy’s Prime Seafood & Steaks

8051 Leesburg Pike (Tysons), 703-552-5110, randysprime.com. Treat yourself to prime cuts, duck-fat fries, seafood towers, massive slabs of chocolate cake 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, including minestrone, pizza, calzones, subs, pasta and cannoli.

O C L D G $$

Roots Kitchen & Bar

8100 Old Dominion Drive, 703-712-7850, roots provisions.com. Find sandwiches, smoothies, salads, espresso drinks, pie, cocktails and grab-andgo snacks and pantry staples. B L G V $

Silver Diner

8101 Fletcher St., 703-821-5666, silverdiner.com. See Arlington listing. C B R L D A G V $$

Simply Fresh

6811 Elm St., 703-821-1869, simplyfreshva. com. A local favorite for pulled pork, chicken and brisket. Plus Greek diner fare, family-style takeout meals and breakfast. O C B L D G V $

Starr Hill Biergarten

1805 Capital One Drive, starrhill.com. Anchoring an 11-story-high sky park, this indoor-outdoor beer garden offers more than 20 brews on tap, and snacks like soft pretzels with beer cheese. O C L D V $

Tachibana

6715 Lowell Ave., 703-847-1771, tachibana.us. Stellar sushi aside, the chef’s specials here include starters such as clam miso soup, monkfish paté and savory egg custard. C L D $$

The Union

1379 Beverly Road, 703-356-0129, theunionres taurant.us. An eclectic, global menu from Giridhar Sastry, former executive chef of the Mayflower Hotel in D.C. o C L D $$

Wren

1825 Capitol One Drive S., thewatermarkhotel. com. Topping the Watermark Hotel, chef Yo Matsuzaki’s sleek izakaya offers Japanese American fare (hamachi tartare, Wagyu burgers, miso-marinated sea bass), stupendous cocktails and sweeping skyline views. D G V $$$

shop local

by Colleen Kennedy

Glass Act

Jonathan Ashley was stationed in Hawaii during his service in the Marine Corps, then lived in various other U.S. locales, working in restaurants and interior design, before he and his partner settled in Arlington five years ago.

Their Ballston apartment now doubles as a glass art studio called JDAsh Design, where Ashley makes colorful suncatchers ($20-$90), plant propagators ($18-$45) and mosaics crafted from discarded mirrors and salvaged picture frames (starting at $36). He also designs custom stainedglass windowpanes, such as a brilliant composition of peonies and wisteria that a client recently commissioned as a surprise anniversary gift.

His Pride-themed pieces, which include reflective glass objects ranging from rainbow window ornaments and mobiles to soldered trans flags, are especially popular.

“At first, I didn’t know how they would be received,” Ashley says. “I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the reception and how it’s affected my business. It makes me really proud when people purchase these works and display them in their front windows or their yards.”

jdashdesign.com

Pretty Edgy

“I was watching a lot of Bob Ross to relax, and I thought, I could do this. I could create,” David DeJulio shares, remembering his career-changing epiphany. “I didn’t want the next 30 years of my life to be sitting in an office, typing at a computer, smiling and dialing.”

Nearly four years have passed since DeJulio left the fast-paced worlds of corporate sales and real estate, turning his love of woodworking—a craft he learned from his father—into a full-time vocation under the name Personal Inspirations Custom Woodcrafts & Art. As a real estate agent, he’d always enjoyed gifting clients wooden cutouts in the shape of Virginia to celebrate their new homes.

Now, working from the converted garage of his own Arlington home, he sells the cutouts ($150), as well as fine charcuterie boards (starting at $180) and handcrafted live-edge furniture pieces, many of which are created on commission. He showcases his work at select craft fairs, and will be at the Old Town Arts and Crafts Fair in Alexandria on June 8.

For contrast, DeJulio often juxtaposes natural woods, such as maple burl or walnut, with colorful epoxy resins, which he pours by hand to achieve a

marbled effect. This striking combination finds its way into pieces ranging from sleek, full-size dining tables to intricate coffee tables with industrial metal legs.

Dedicated to quality, he designs and builds each piece to stand the test of time, sourcing wood with interesting grains and textures from Shenandoah Valley sawmills.

“I’ve put sweat and sometimes even blood into these projects, but a lot of the process—like sanding—is very meditative and relaxing,” says the artist. “I spend hours and hours with every piece, and it just feels so good when I am finished—knowing that I’ve made something that’s going to last a lifetime through multiple generations.”

customwoodcraftsandart.com

Woodworker David DeJulio in his Arlington studio

A maple burl side table by David DeJulio

Return of aRiver

Once dangerously polluted, D.C.’s Anacostia River is making a comeback.

BY JEFFREY YEATES

Ahalf dozen white egrets and blue herons strut along the riverbank scanning for fish, while a lone bald eagle, high on a tree limb, surveys the scene from above. Kingfishers and ospreys call all around us. A fox darts along the shoreline. A cormorant spreads its wings to dry off in the sun.

It’s a warm, late July evening, and I’m on an open pontoon boat, taking a free twilight cruise on the 9-mile-long Anacostia River, which flows from Maryland into Washington, D.C. The thriving riverscape unfolding before me could not be more different from the image I always had of this waterway growing up. Back then, it was dirty and toxic—a place to avoid.

The bad rap wasn’t unfounded. “The Anacostia in the 1970s and ’80s was grossly polluted, barely hanging on,” says Chris Williams, president of the Anacostia Watershed Society (AWS), an environmental advocacy group. “It was a dying river.”

AWS sponsors the spring and summer boat tours,

in part, to show off how far this tributary of the Potomac has come in recent decades. The nonprofit’s offices near the Anacostia’s headwaters in Bladensburg, Maryland, are tucked inside the 1732 George Washington House—a former inn that was reportedly a stopover for our first president on his travels from Mount Vernon to points north.

“The goal is a boatable, swimmable and fishable Anacostia. We’ve achieved the first,” Williams says. Swimming is still off-limits, but improvements in water quality have put that second aim nearly within reach. “Fishing—being able to catch and safely eat a fish without concerns about pollution—is at least a few years away,” he says, “but it’s coming.”

The organization’s 35-year history of stewardship does seem to be paying

off. In 1996, AWS sued the U.S. Navy over harmful materials left in the riverbed by shipbuilding at the Navy Yard, prompting an $18 million cleanup. In 2000, after the nonprofit and its partners successfully sued the District of Columbia for violating the Clean Water Act, new efforts began to divert some 2 billion tons of sewage per year that previously infiltrated the river.

With help from community volunteers and school science programs, AWS has restored water-filtering mussels to the Anacostia’s aquaculture. Thanks to these and other water quality initiatives, river otters have returned. Area residents can now enjoy recreational activities on and around the river that didn’t exist a few decades ago. A new and accessible urban water playground is emerging.

For Williams, it’s personal. “With the Anacostia, I am not an outsider working with the local community,” he says. “I’m in the community., I live here. It’s my river and I love that.”

A FEW WEEKS later, I head to the Washington Rowing School at Bladensburg Waterfront Park over Labor Day weekend for a “Learn to Scull” class. A sign on the office door reads: The expert in anything was once a beginner.

It’s a maxim I end up repeating under my breath several times during the course of the three-day class. While a few students in our group of 12 have some prior rowing skills, most of us look like baby water bugs, fumbling to put our oars in the right place while keeping our sculls upright.

Perched on her skinny racing shell

COURTESY OF ANACOSTIA WATERSHED SOCIETY (HERON); COURTESY OF WASHINGTON ROWING SCHOOL (ROWERS)

A group from Capital Rowing Club

A blue heron on the Anacostia shoreline

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© Kristin Sweeting Photography

with nary a wobble, coach Cindy Cole glides among us, calling out advice and admonitions. A lifelong competitive rower, Cole founded the Washington Rowing School in 2006. “This upper part of the Anacostia, away from the Potomac, is the perfect place for beginners,” she says. “The river is sheltered with calm, flat water. You also don’t have to worry about powerboats up here.”

It’s a good thing, since I’m barely managing to avoid stationary trees. After haplessly gliding into a thicket of overhanging branches, I sort myself out and reposition my oars in their locks— “Thumbs on the ends!” Cole calls—and pull back out into the the river. Later on, I involuntarily test the river’s swimmability when I knife one of my oars too far underwater and tumble overboard.

The coaches good-naturedly welcome me into the “Anacostia Swim Club.”

While there is something cinematic about the rhythmic glide of a rowing scull, the Anacostia is just as welcoming to canoes and kayaks, which don’t require special training. Various spots along the river have watercraft to rent if you don’t have your own.

Exercising that option, I return to Bladensburg Waterfront Park—this time with my teenage daughter, Sarah—and rent a double kayak. Showing off her well-honed strokes from summer camp, she efficiently paddles us out into the river while pull out my binoculars to zero in on some herons hunting along the shore.

Our family has kayaked in a lot of scenic places: Thailand, Croatia, Hawaii, Florida and nearby Antietam Creek in Maryland. It’s hard to believe at first that this placid waterway is in the middle of our nation’s capital. Distant train horns and other city sounds come and go, but all we can see are trees and wetlands on either side.

We paddle past the river entrance to the U.S. National Arboretum and wend our way through Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, an oasis for beavers, turtles,

Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens

The Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge

COURTESY OF KENILWORTH AQUATIC GARDENS; ADOBE STOCK (BRIDGE)

waterfowl and dragonflies, known for its water lilies and summer blooming lotus flowers. Nearby, cyclists rattle across half-hidden bridges on the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail.

Humans have been plying these waters for centuries. During his famed 1608 expedition, Captain John Smith would have seen Nacotchtank Indians using canoes to fish and gather food on the river, which the explorer noted was fed by “sweet and innumerable springs.” Colonial settlers later moved in and began growing tobacco.

After the Civil War, many formerly enslaved people built homes on the river’s east side, founding the D.C. neighborhood that bears the Anacostia name. The 19th-century abolitionist Frederick Douglass was one such resident, and his home, Cedar Hill, is now a National Historic Site. Perched on a hilltop with original furnishings and the statesman’s papers on display,

the house is open for tours, with skyline views of D.C., including the Washington Monument and the U.S. Capitol.

Douglass is also the namesake of the Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge, which spans the river and connects the Anacostia neighborhood to D.C.’s Navy Yard between Nationals Park and Audi Field. Marked by soaring white arcs, the landmark structure features wide bike and pedestrian lanes on both sides.

DECADES AFTER its nadir, the Anacostia River is slowly recovering its vitality, and it offers a little something for everyone. Toward the end of our pontoon boat cruise, I ask our captain and guide, Emily Castelli, what she likes most about the river.

“My favorite part about the Anacostia River is when I’m in my boots and waders, planting wetlands and restoring mussels,” says Castelli, 29, who grew up in Prince George’s County and

started volunteering with AWS river cleanup events at age 12. (She returned to the D.C. area after graduating from Elmira College in New York in 2016.)

Expertly maneuvering our vessel to a boat ramp near the former RFK Stadium, she is careful to avoid the fishing lines of an angler who introduces himself as Keith. Though swimming and fishing in the river are still considered unsafe, he clearly isn’t waiting for an official green light. Earbuds in, with Tupac and Jay-Z providing the soundtrack for his outing, he shows off several large catfish laid out in his cooler.

“What do you do with the fish?” I ask.

“Give it to folks who need the food,” he says.

Yet another reason to protect and restore the health of this vital resource for all who cherish it. ■

Arlington resident Jeffrey Yeates writes about cycling, travel and local culture.

ARLINGTON,VA

Exploring the Anacostia River

If You Go

Play

The Anacostia Riverwalk Trail (capitolriverfront.org/go/anacostiariverwalk-trail) is a popular route for pedestrians, cyclists and skaters that hugs both sides of the river. Don’t miss the scenic east side section between Kenilworth and Bladensburg Waterfront Park, which goes through forest and wetlands. Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens (nps.gov/keaq), operated by the National Park Service and known for its giant lily pads, is worth a visit for the wildlife and birding opportunities. Admission is free.

Bladensburg Waterfront Park (pgparks. com/parks_trails/bladensburg-waterfrontpark) is located at the quieter north end of the Anacostia and offers a wide range of amenities, including canoe and kayak rentals, a boat launch and river tours.

Cyclists riding the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail stop here to rest and refill water bottles.

The Ballpark Boathouse (boatingindc. com/ballpark-boathouse), a smaller facility at the south end of the Anacostia near Nationals Park, also rents boats, including season rowing passes.

Capital Rowing Club (capitalrowing. org) and Washington Rowing School (washingtonrowingschool.com) offer rowing classes and organize competitive teams for those who want to improve their skills.

Continued on next page

The aquatic garden at the U.S. National Arboretum

Pontoon boaters on the Anacostia

DC Sail (dcsail.org), a program of the National Maritime Heritage Foundation, has a wide range of sailing courses for adults and kids. Once certified, members can rent boats.

Eat & Drink

In D.C.’s Anacostia neighborhood, Blackowned 6Co Eatery (6co-eatery.business. site) is a few blocks from Cedar Hill, the former home of abolitionist Frederick Douglass (nps.gov/frdo). Stop in for a steak and cheese sandwich and a side of excellent Cajun fries. Also good for a quick bite (and also Black-owned): DCity Smokehouse (dcitysmokehouse.com), whose half smoke smothered in brisket chili is a must. The Anacostia location of Busboys and Poets (busboysandpoets.

com) serves dishes such as Creole shrimp and fried catfish alongside a sizable selection of vegan dishes, and serves brunch daily until 3 p.m. On the opposite side of the river, Capitol Riverfront (capitolriverfront.org) is home to fountains, a boardwalk and a shallow wading pool with a waterfall that’s popular with kids in summer. Hit AllPurpose Pizzeria (allpurposedc.com) for a craft brew and a deck-oven pie topped with pepperoni and hot honey. To satisfy a seafood craving, grab a table at the ballpark-adjacent location of The Salt Line (thesaltline.com), whose owners include retired Mr. National himself, Ryan Zimmerman. Jackie American Bistro (jackiedc.com), named after legendary

first lady Jacqueline Kennedy, is a hot spot for international flavors, wine and cocktails in a ’60s-inspired setting with a river terrace.

Volunteer

The Anacostia River is healthier than it used to be, thanks to thousands of volunteers who have helped to restore its wetlands, reintroduce native plants and aquatic life, and remove trash. The Anacostia Watershed Society (anacostiaws.org), Anacostia Riverkeeper (anacostiariverkeeper.org) and National Park Service (home.nps. gov/anac/getinvolved/supportyourpark/ volunteer.htm) offer a variety of volunteer opportunities for individuals and groups interested in habitat conservation.

Cedar Hill, the former home of abolitionist Frederick Douglass in Anacostia

Volunteers with the Anacostia Watershed Society

Capitol Riverfront

Frederick Douglass

by Christine Koubek Flynn

Go Retro in Charlottesville

The new Little Mod Hotel, steps away from the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, is a groovy getaway for 1960s-style aficionados, parents traveling with teens on a college visit or a graduation weekend. Opened in September 2023, this midcentury-modern property is flush with vintage vibes. Each of its 15 guest rooms includes a pistachio-colored mini-fridge, a record player with a wide range of albums (from Elvis and The Beatles to Ray Charles and John Coltrane)—and a phone that looks like an old-fashioned rotary dial but works by push button. King bed or double queen configurations are available and include a small sofa or two chairs, along with light-filled bathrooms done up in colorful tiles.

Five larger studio king rooms have a full-size fridge, microwave and wet-bar area. Don’t miss breakfast or lunch at The Mod Pod, the hotel’s onsite Airstream turned outdoor food counter. Order an açaí smoothie and one of the popular breakfast tacos (filled with egg, chimichurri, avocado, pico de gallo, pickled onions and your choice of a protein) or opt for a waffle cone stuffed with steak, red pepper crema, avocado and roasted vegetables. Rates begin at $189 per night. Pet-friendly rooms available. Little Mod Hotel, 207 14th St. NW, Charlottesville, Virginia, 434-443-3207, littlemodhotel.com

Charlottesville’s Little Mod Hotel

Chestertown Charm

Located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Chestertown is home to many 18th-century Georgianand Federal-style homes, and the vernacular-style White Swan Tavern bed-and-breakfast. A 2023 renovation completed by the inn’s new owners combines the old-world charm of antique and reproduction furniture with modern amenities, including updated guest bathrooms with glass-enclosed showers.

The inn is a short walk to the town’s waterfront and Washington College (founded in 1782, it was the first college chartered in the sovereign United States), plus restaurants, art galleries, shops

and a Saturday morning farmers market.

Each of the inn’s six period guest rooms and suites has a comfortable bed with luxury linens and decor that is a nod to the property’s history. The spacious John Lovegrove Kitchen room—named for the 1730s shoemaker whose oneroom dwelling was the lot’s first building—is a guest favorite for its rustic brick floor, open-beam ceiling, cozy seating and elegant bathroom.

While most small inns have guest rooms with a single king or queen bed, White Swan’s The Wilmer Room is ideal for a larger family or friends getaway, with two four-poster double beds and a sitting area with views of the heart of Chestertown.

Rates begin at $150 and include coffee and tea any time of day, plus a full hot breakfast to enjoy in the dining room, or on the shaded back patio or front porch. White Swan Tavern, 231 High St., Chestertown, Maryland, 410-7782300, whiteswantavern.com.

PAMELA COWART-RICKMAN

White Swan Tavern

Richmond in Bloom

Explore more than 50 acres of spectacular gardens at Richmond’s Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden and take advantage of a yearlong celebration of horticultural displays, art exhibits (including works by artist-in-residence Kyle Epps), live music and more in celebration of the garden’s 40th anniversary.

Three new categories of classes and tours make their debut this season: Botany & Ecology; Beekeeping, Birding & Bugs; and Plant Play Make & Take Workshops.

Lush displays of peonies, irises and roses will appear in succession throughout May and into June. With nearly 2,000 blooms in Lewis Ginter’s 9,000-square-foot Cochrane Rose Garden, you can find dozens of rose varieties from around the world— including Rosa ‘Cherry Parfait,’ a stunner whose white petals appear to

have been dipped in pink. Visit May 18-19 for the Richmond Rose Society Show and get advice on growing roses. Weather affects bloom times. Check the garden’s social media for updates.

Adding sound to your sight and scent experience, the Groovin’ in the Garden concert series returns after nearly a decade to the rose garden’s terraced lawn. Alt-country and folk-infused rock band Carbon Leaf kicks off the season on May 30. Tickets begin at $38. In addition, Flowers After 5 concerts (included with admission) showcase local and regional musicians most Thursday nights. Leashed dogs are allowed at select performances.

Numerous peaceful paths and woodsy trails wind past sculptures and blooming flower beds. Climb the stairs of the new Klaus Family Tree House for expansive views of the gardens and lake below. If you’ve

got little ones who need to blow off steam, head to the new splash pad in the children’s garden.

The botanical garden is open yearround, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission: adults, $20; seniors (age 65+) or military, $15; youth (ages 3-12), $10; members and children (under age 3), free. Note: Visitors who live 50+ miles from the garden receive $20 off on all general membership levels. Individual membership ($95) includes admission for one, plus two guest passes, discounts on garden classes, 10% off at the garden gift shop, and free admission to American Horticultural Society affiliate gardens.

Double your exploration time in the gardens with an overnight stay at the nearby Museum District Bed & Breakfast (museumdistrictbb.com), where you can relax on a big front porch. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, 1800 Lakeside Ave., Richmond, 804262-9887, lewisginter.org

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

Peonies at the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

by Kim O’Connell

Pranks for the Memories

Props to Arlington’s merry high school tricksters of yesteryear.

IN THE LATE 20th century, Bob’s Big Boy restaurants were synonymous with no-fuss American dining—a good place to get a huge cheeseburger and a frosty shake. They were just as famous

for their statues of the company mascot, a cherubic boy with a brown pompadour and red-and-white checkered overalls, which stood out front to welcome customers.

Naturally, the burger chain was popular with teenagers. Maybe a little too popular.

For a few years in the 1970s, usually in late May or early June—the point when senioritis reaches its peak—the statue from the Bob’s Big Boy that once stood at Columbia Pike and Walter Reed Drive in Arlington had a habit of disappearing in the night. The next morning, students and staff would show up to the old Wakefield High School building to find the beaming figure standing atop the flat roof over the front entrance, welcoming everyone to class.

One series of grainy photos from 1977 begins with about 10 kids, smiling and cheeky, posing for a group shot with the pilfered statue in front of the high school. The next shot is down to business: Three boys stand on the roof holding ropes; others on the ground prepare the fiberglass mascot for hoisting. Then, in the final shot, the deed is done.

Not to be outpranked, in 1983 students at what was then WashingtonLee High School (now WashingtonLiberty) stole the Hamburglar statues from a nearby McDonald’s and placed at least one on school property. Four years later, the Class of 1987 ran the McDonald’s flag up the W-L flagpole.

To some, this brand of mischief feels quaint compared to today’s high-security high school environments. “Imagine the fallout,” were this to happen today, one commenter recently wrote in a local history forum about senior pranks.

Debi Spano, a 1974 Yorktown High School graduate who now lives in Inwood, West Virginia, recalls the day that the “Y” mysteriously disappeared from the signage on her school building’s facade. Not long afterward, a large “W” appeared in her brother’s room. When their mother asked him about it, he admitted that he and a few unnamed accomplices had pinched it from W-L.

“We all kind of laughed,” Spano says, “and Mum, while still laughing, said, ‘You know you have to give it back.’ My brother answered, ‘I will when they give us our Y back.’ ” ■

The legendary Bob’s Big Boy mascot

(no alarm necessary)

Your years of service taught you the importance of physical fitness and keeping your body ready for action. At Falcons Landing this idea lives on, but we replaced the obstacle course with walking trails, drill sergeants with personal trainers and PT in the dirt with a state-of-the-art fitness center, including a Junior Olympic indoor swimming pool. You’ll still break a sweat, but now it will be with a smile on your face. CALL 703-223-8491 TO SCHEDULE A TOUR TODAY!

Associate

Steve Wydler

703.348.7298

steve@wydlerbrothers.com

Hans Wydler

301.523.6313

hans@wydlerbrothers.com