In This Issue: April 2022

Italian Eats

What's your happy place? If you're like us, it's somewhere between the antipasto and dessert. Yes, there are few feelings as downright blissful as knowing a pizza is in the oven or Grandma's Sunday gravy is stewing away on the stove. But not all of us have an Italian nonna. For the unlucky among us, restaurants play an important role in the voyage to legendary old-world-style comfort. From the best places for housemade pasta to where to find cannoli and gelato worthy of breaking any diet, these are the best places to feed your craving for Italian in Northern Virginia.

Don's Back On

How famous DC talk-radio host Don Geronimo got his start, why he left the air--and why he came back.

Bicycle Guide

Northern Virginia has long been prime territory for cyclists, what with our scenic trails and wide-ranging routes (gravel, mountains, or paved roads--we've got something for everyone). The pandemic only fueled a desire to get on our two-wheelers, suddenly a socially distant way to let off some of that pent-up energy we had on our hands. Here's everything you need to know about riding in NoVA, from buying a bike to where to pedal to the cutest (and smartest) accessories you'll want.

The Media Barons of Arlington

Politico and Axios are two of the biggest national success stories to come out of this region in decades, and their geographical proximity is no coincidence. Their tale is a corporate love triangle between a media tycoon, two former Washington Post journalists he believed in, and the German juggernaut whose wooing led to a permanent rift.

Face Value

So that TikTok influencer swears by a new wrinkle patch? Here, three NoVA experts give us their take on the latest social media beauty trends.

Pet City, U.S.A

Why Alexandria has been officially deemed canine-crazy.

This Little Light

When sixth-grader Alejandro Buxton decided to make a special candle for his mom back in 2019, he had no idea that move would grow into a full-fledged business.

Clicking Into Place

If you're hunting high and low for the trendy new Sparrow Room, a speakeasy-style dim sum parlor behind Bun'd Up eatery in Arlington, just follow the click-click-click of mahjong tiles.

On Our Radar

NoVA-related books and shows that caught our eyes and ears.

Something Borrowed

Books and DVDs, Yes--but that's just the beginning of what you can take home from your local library.

Datebook

Best of the B.E.S.T.

Alexandria's The B.E.S.T. Gift Shop provides opportunities for artisans with disabilities.

Destination: Winchester

The Shenandoah Valley town's historic pedestrian mall and surrounding countryside offer a plethora of tasty attractions.

Rubber Sole

High-end athletic shoes are making a sneak attack.

Fenced In

For a different angle on exercise, try a sport in which you constantly feel just a little off-kilter.

4 Fab Stays

We've rounded up hotels, inns, and Airbnbs within a quick drive or flight from Northern Virginia.

Budding Obsession

These floral finds bring a puff of spring into your home.

Good Bones

This Alexandria home got a totally new look, no renovations required.

Updating the Update

An Alexandria row house's decades-old rear addition gets a fresh new look.

Listings of the Month

Joe Snively

We chatted with the Washington Capitals rookie about his first pro game, playing for the hometown team, and the future of hockey in Virginia.