Neutral Ground Bar + Kitchen, the latest venture from restaurant pro David Guas of Bayou Bakery, plans to offer its McLean neighbors classic American food and drink in a relaxed setting by the end of May.
The restaurant is one of the most anticipated in NoVA. Guas, who is known not only for Bayou Bakery, but also for his TV appearances on Food Network’s Chopped and as host of the Travel Channel’s American Grilled, said last year he’s been waiting for the right spot in McLean. The restaurant will be at 6641 Old Dominion Dr.
Natural light from the large windows will bathe the ash wood tables and pale green leather seats. Its retro-mod setting lends a Southern California feel to the open room.
This laid-back and welcoming vibe pervades the menu. First up is the burger, a double patty sourced from area lineback cattle and caramelized in the wood-burning oven. There will be crispy quail, double-fried for a light crust, and a hefty pork chop. A whole branzino will arrive dressed in organic tapenade brimming with red wine citrusy flavor.
A featured oyster dish is an homage to Guas’ New Orleans roots. Locally sourced bivalves will be charbroiled in lemon and butter and finished with parmesan cheese. For another tribute, two giant-sized, head-on shrimp will be dressed in a New Orleans–style Worcestershire sauce.
Another focus will be clever vegetable preparations. Ribbons of zucchini will come to the table, griddled in a romesco sauce. Shoestring onion rings, an edible homage to a favorite Big Easy po’ boy shop, will be another signature dish. Crispy, roasted mushrooms also star.
Signature cocktails riff on classics. The drinks will be familiar and approachable, yet they’ll have a different twist or two. Nibbles like pimiento cheese will be available, as well. Patrons can expect an engaging bar that encourages them to treat Neutral Ground as a home away from home.
6641 Old Dominion Dr.
Feature image of grilled Caesar salad by Johnny Autry
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