The Cake Lounge
New brick-and-mortar extension of Crazy Cakes By Becky, a dessert lounge offering artisanal sweets, macarons, cookies, light café-style food and non-alcoholic beverages in former Gracious Bakery location
Upper Crust Pizzeria & Italian Cuisine
New flagship restaurant by the founders of Meaux Jeaux Pizza, featuring house-made Italian focaccia and traditional Sicilian sandwiches. 3,145 sq ft interior with 750 sq ft courtyard, full table service.
Empanola
Empanola is opening a new Central Business District location inside the Holiday Inn. The location will feature the full menu including traditional meat and vegan empanadas, plus an expanded beverage program with Lavazza coffee. They plan to serve hotel guests, business community, and tourists with delivery and catering services.
Southdowns Grille
New American concept replacing Solera tapas spot, featuring elevated comfort food like blue crab fritters, steak frites, and baked lasagna. Renovated space includes dedicated to-go counter and renovated bar with 25 wines by the glass and 10 signature cocktails.
Big Bad Breakfast
Chef John Currence’s Big Bad Breakfast is taking a lease at the former City Cafe location. The breakfast-and-lunch restaurant features Southern-inspired food including biscuits, shrimp and grits, and cocktails. Opening timeline is pending.
Pop Up Bagels
Connecticut-based bagel chain opening its first Chicago location and Midwest debut. First of 25 planned locations across the city and suburbs. Partnering with Portillo’s for limited-time giardiniera schmear exclusive to Chicago.
El Meson Espanol
Spanish restaurant preparing to make its regional debut in Adams Morgan. Has applied for liquor license and will have 83 seating capacity. From the same team behind El Rincon Espanol.
Wonder
Wonder food hall concept plans to open its fourth Montgomery County location in Burtonsville Crossing shopping center. The location will feature around 15 restaurant concepts under one roof with celebrity chef partnerships.
Crooked Run Brewing
Crooked Run Brewing has filed paperwork for a new taproom location in Alexandria. The space previously housed Dolce & Bean. Liquor license is currently under review with Virginia ABC Authority.
Underdog Coffee & Bread
Second location of popular DMV cafe opening in Bailey’s Crossroads, neighboring REI. Will offer premium coffee and tea drinks, pastries, and sandwiches. Owner confirms they are nearly ready to welcome the community.