Transformation: Builder Murray Bonitt Buys Waterfront Warehouse at 10 Duke Street
The two-level 6,400-square foot space will be home to "The Mill" a southern market and kitchen.
Alexandria, VA – Soon it might be strange to do anything but visit the Alexandria waterfront on weekends! The two-story, 6,400-square foot warehouse property at 10 Duke Street is about to undergo a major transformation. Developer Murray Bonitt just announced its purchase of the property and intention to rebrand it as “The Mill” – a southern market and kitchen. The Mill is slated to open in Oct. 2020.
“I want to make this the place in Old Town where residents can spill into two or three nights a week, see their neighbors, and enjoy great food in a great space,” Bonitt said.
You might have heard of Bonitt since his firm is behind several notable preservation projects in Old Town including Virtue Feed & Grain and The Majestic Café.
Bonnitt, who said that the restaurant concept is still under development, is consulting with with Rick Jerue, chief of staff to the mayor of Charleston, SC, and founder of the Charleston Food and Wine Festival.
“I am lucky to have Rick as a resource, and there are a number of great chef/operators he has sent my way who are very interested in coming to Alexandria,” Bonitt said.
Bonitt said his company will survey residents of the southeast area of Old Town for their input on what groceries to carry. The market will offer coffee, pastries, prepared foods, and beer and wine. The first floor is described as a casual tavern with repurposed materials, and the second floor will include a sofa lounge, fireplace, open kitchen and community seating.
The 19th century warehouse was originally a coopers shop that made wooden barrels for the Alexandria Flour Company. It was also later used as a mess hall for Union soldiers during the Civil War.
