By Debby Critchley
You should make a point of stopping by La Tasca, 607 King St. to enjoy its new look thanks to ownership and management, Fundamental Food Group, who purchased the La Tasca Group in September 2016. Their recent grand reopening introduced the new design which is light, bright, and airy – much as you would expect from a restaurant based on Spanish cuisine. The newly remodeled La Tasca Old Town remains rooted in Spanish traditions. The Mediterranean inspired color palette features an eye-catching tile floor inspired by the Moorish designs from the south of Spain. The menu features a variety of paellas, fresh salads, sandwiches, and shareable items like rustic breads and pintxo boards. Large or small, this kitchen truly understands and creates fabulous paellas. Also available are nine varieties of sangria ranging from white to red. I tried two and found them wonderful. And, if you hear the bell sound, get in line for the txotx – pronounced chōch. Hold out your glass and catch the stream of delicious hard cider as it arches out of the tap.
The former Snack Bar location at 2419 Mt. Vernon Ave. has joined the Common Plate Hospitality family of restaurants. They are well known for their restaurants including Mason Social, Augie’s Mussels, and soon to open Urbano 116. The new restaurant will be called Catch in Del Ray and will feature a fish and seafood restaurant. Speaking of Urbano 116, 116 King St., is getting a carryout window. Featuring Mexican food, you will be able to carry out limited quick-service menu items.
Charlie’s on the Avenue, now open at 1501 Mount Vernon Ave., is adding more patio space for seating and games. They are expanding to the open space (1503-1505) next to their restaurant. Music will be allowed until 9:00 pm. Five Guys has opened in the last of the space vacated by Don Pablo’s at 3525-C Jefferson Davis Hwy. Also open now is Casa Tequila Bar & Grill, 1701 Duke St. The restaurant features a variety of Mexican inspired dishes including fajitas, enchiladas, burritos, ceviche, salads, chorizo and eggs, and desserts to be accompanied by an impressive selection of tequilas.
RusUz, 210 Swamp Fox Road, is now open. The restaurant specializes in Russian and Uzbek cuisine and is offering selections such as caviar, Russian potato salad, borsch, beef stroganoff and plov made with carrots chickpeas, raisins, spices, and lamb. Food service is accompanied by imported wines, beer, and alcoholic beverages. Although not in Alexandria, a long time favorite, Bob and Edith’s Diner location at 2310 Columbia Pike is currently listed for sale. There is no word whether they will stay after the sale but they do have several years left on their lease.
We want to extend our best wishes for a speedy recovery to Alexander Truitt of the Blue and White Carry Out, 1024 Wythe St.
Lastly, the new Little Yunnan Restaurant is located at 814 N. Fairfax St.
Until next time, eat well and enjoy.
