For the first time, Virginia ABC stores will be open on New Year’s Day. [WUSA9]
Choolaah Indian BBQ (pictured) is now open in Mosaic with another one slated for Sterling’s Cascades Overlook. [Eater]
Lalibela Ethiopian could open as soon as January in Arlington. [ARLnow]
Denver Riggleman of Afton’s Silverback Distillery (great in a bloody mary) is running as a Republican for Virginia governor. [WaPo]
Rocket Fizz, a specialty soda and candy shop, is now open in Leesburg. [Loudoun Times]
Panjshir in Falls Church is relocating. [FCNP]
The biggest surprises in the D.C.-area dining landscape by local writers, including me. [Eater]
The best of this magazine’s food and drink stories in 2016. [NVM]