From award-winning culinary establishments to beloved community staples, NoVA diners have had to say some tough goodbyes this year. As we look back on 2025, here are six notable restaurant closures.
The Black Market
Less than a year after opening, The Black Market in Aldie — previously the home of the Aldie General Store — shuttered. A new concept, Oak & Ember, is planned to open in the space by year end.
The Block Foodhall & Bar
As one of the first food halls in Northern Virginia, The Block’s closure was truly the end of an era. The Annandale business was home to a variety of Asian eateries, including SnoCream Company and Pokeworks Co.
The Restaurant at Patowmack Farm
Ranked the No. 1 restaurant on our 2021 and 2024 50 Best Restaurants list, The Restaurant at Patowmack Farm officially closed at the end of August. The owner shocked area diners with the news, saying, “There comes a moment when we must honor the natural rhythm of life and embrace change. That moment has arrived.” Baltimore-based restaurant Foraged. will take over the space in early 2026.
Kismet Modern Indian
This Alexandria favorite closed up shop at the end of May. Listed as one of our 50 Best Restaurants, Kismet was known for its creative takes on traditional Indian dishes. Fans of the restaurant can still get a taste at Kismet’s Richmond location.
Kirby Club
At Mosaic District, it’s out with the old and in with the new. Kirby Club — which first opened in 2022 and was twice named to our 50 Best Restaurant list — closed this September. It was replaced by another Mediterranean restaurant, NAJA. The new owner, Tariq Alaeddin, worked at the original establishment for three years before taking over.
Old Ox Brewery
The Ashburn brewery made its final last call in the spring. The decision to close came after part of its leadership team decided to retire, while the others wanted to pursue ventures outside of the brewery industry.
Feature image of Kismet Modern Indian by Michael Butcher
This story originally ran in our December issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
