Chocolate Bash
Chocolate Bash, a Southern California dessert brand specializing in chocolate creations, is opening a new franchise location in Downey, CA. The brand was founded in 2015 by Rasha Albasha and is expanding its Southern California footprint. No specific opening date was provided.
Velocity | Sim Racing Lounge
Texas-born ‘eatertainment’ concept blending 30+ motion racing simulators with chef-driven cuisine and craft cocktails. Over 10,000 sq ft near Walnut Hill Lane and US-75. Features large bar, 30+ TVs, racing-themed interior. Menu includes Akaushi Slider Tower, Togarashi Ahi Tuna Bowl, and signature Spicy Ancho Hot Honey Crispy Chicken Sandwich. Dallas debut follows Houston location opened […]
Somssi
Neo-bistro from Ahris Kim (director of operations at Atomix and Atoboy) pulling from Korean, Asian, and European influences. Kitchen run by Daniel Gronert. Located in Greenwich Village near Bleecker Street. Hours: Tue-Thu 5-9pm, Fri-Sat 5-9:30pm. Reservations already open. Part of Na:Eun Hospitality umbrella.
Neighborhood Test Kitchen
Chef Michael Mina is reviving his test kitchen concept as ‘Neighborhood Test Kitchen’ in the former International Smoke space at Millennium Tower. The restaurant will feature rotating chef residencies every 4-6 months, family-style meals with customer feedback, and pricing in the $55-$65 range. Launch chef will be Gerald Chin (head of culinary for Mina Group) […]
Bollywood Masala
Bollywood Masala, an Indian restaurant with 10 years in La Plata, MD, is relocating to 3804 Crain Highway in Waldorf. Owners Rajat and Punita Malhotra are moving due to lease complications. The new location will retain the existing menu while adding new specials and cocktails. Inspections are nearly complete and opening is expected within the […]
Carbonara
Carbonara is an Italian restaurant opening its second location in Gainesville, VA, in a former Bar Louie space at 14081 Promenade Commons St. The new location will seat approximately 250 guests, larger than the existing Arlington location. Menu features house-made fresh pasta, fresh mozzarella, and Italian classics. Owner/Chef Mike Cordero anticipates opening the second week […]
Honeygrow
Honeygrow, a Philadelphia-founded fast-casual stir fry chain, is preparing to open a new location at 5063 Wellington Road in Gainesville, Virginia. No firm opening date has been announced, but the company website lists it as ‘coming soon’. This will be part of their DMV expansion; they currently operate 76 locations across 8 states.
Phia
Phia is a new Appalachian grassroots cuisine concept helmed by Chef Brad Feickert, named after his grandmother Sophia. Opening in the former La Mano Coffee Bar space in the Takoma neighborhood of DC. Beverage program overseen by Dylan Greer, highlighting Appalachian-sourced ingredients. Projected opening in August 2026.
Sushi by Bou
Sushi by Bou is opening its first Virginia location at Reston Town Center inside the Hyatt Regency hotel. The omakase concept offers three tiers: Signature, Boūgie, and Boū Reserve, in a speakeasy-style counter setting. A liquor license application has been filed with the Virginia ABC Authority. No firm opening date set, but aiming for late […]
Unnamed Sports Bar (Eat Restaurant Partners)
Eat Restaurant Partners (led by President Chris Tsui) is developing an as-yet-unnamed sports bar and grill concept in the Diamond District mixed-use development adjacent to CarMax Park in Richmond, VA. The restaurant will occupy approximately 5,000 sq ft of a 20,000 sq ft retail building near the ballpark’s main centerfield entrance. Construction is scheduled to […]