Just before the ball drops, here’s another countdown for you. Here are the food news stories that kept your appetite whetted this year. Some still haven’t opened yet, so keep checking this space for updates.
10. Famed DC Nightlife Mavens Are Opening An Immersive Spice Road Dining Experience In Tysons Corner Center
Jay Sean’s tour DJ, Bikram Keith, opened Leila in Tysons Corner Center with his friend, Versus principal Vinoda Basnayake, and Punjab Grill owner Karan Singh. The restaurant is inspired by Keith’s travels through the Middle East, Persian Gulf, and Northern India.
9. Taco Bamba Is Coming to Alexandria’s Landmark Neighborhood
The latest location of the local favorite is now slated to open in early February. Look for tacos inspired by the area, including a meatball one that takes its cue from the now-shuttered Starvin’ Marvin’s.
8. Poffy To Serve Beloved Dutch Snacks In Mosaic District
After opening last summer, the allergen-free poffertjes vendor has already expanded its offerings with fish-shaped molds that resemble Japanese taiyaki.
7. Beeliner Diner Will Bring Modern Comfort Fare–And Giant Cakes–To Alexandria Early Next Year
This diner from the team behind Bread & Water Company will sell burgers, pizza, and fried chicken, among dishes. But we can’t wait to scope out the oversized pastry bar, which is selling huge TowerCakes.
6. Japanese Barbecue Restaurant Gyu-Shige Is Open In Fairfax
On February 14, the meat lovers’ destination opened in Mosaic District. Since then, it’s gained scores of fans for its showy presentation of wagyu steaks.
5. Great American Restaurants Debuts Fred’s Chicken Shack
The favorite local brand unveiled a ghost kitchen that focused on fried chicken. Though Fred’s is no longer live on delivery apps, you can still get the same crispy sandwiches at other GAR eateries.
4. Choose From 800 Whiskeys At This New Steakhouse
April saw the debut of Bourbon Boulevard in Chantilly. Dry-aged steaks, booze, and live music have been drawing diners ever since.
3. A Giant New Bakery Opens In Arlington Tomorrow
In June, the New York-based chain opened its first Virginia link. Savory sandwiches, quiches, and croissants add to the sweets that gained baker-owner Umber Ahmad recognition from the James Beard Foundation.
2. New Haven’s Most Famous Pizzeria Is Coming To Alexandria
Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana originally debuted in New Haven in 1925. This new location on Duke St. is slated to serve its first pies this summer.
1. A Giant New Food Hall Is Opening Soon In NoVA
Everyone loves a food hall, especially one with 14 vendors. That’s precisely what Epiq Food Hall in Woodbridge offers, along with live music and other regular entertainment.
Feature image by John Robinson
