New Spanish Tapas Spot “El Mercat” Set to Bring the Flavors of Spain to Pentagon City
Alexandria, VA — A new culinary addition is making its way to the Westpost shopping center in Pentagon City. El Mercat Bar de Tapas, a Spanish restaurant known for its vibrant flavors and communal dining experience, is slated to open its doors in mid-August at 1301 S. Joyce Street — the former location of Asia Bistro.
This will be the second outpost for the tapas restaurant, originally launched in 2022 by chef and restaurateur George Rodrigues. The first El Mercat opened in Rockville, Maryland, and quickly gained popularity for its authentic Spanish small plates and warm, inviting atmosphere.
Rodrigues is aiming to replicate the immersive Spanish experience in Arlington. “Whether someone is from Spain or has simply traveled there, we want them to walk in and feel transported,” he said. “Our goal is to capture that essence of Barcelona or San Sebastian.”
Adding a new twist to the Pentagon City branch, El Mercat will feature a jamónero cart — a traditional Spanish ham stand — offering guests the unique experience of table-side carving service. Beverage offerings will include a curated selection of Spanish wines, seasonal sangrias, and refreshing cocktails such as spritzes.
The new location will carry over many of the signature dishes that made the original popular, including bacon-wrapped dates, crispy cod fritters, ham croquettes, and a creamy crab dip infused with Spanish goat cheese. Sharing plates remain central to the dining philosophy, reflecting Spain’s emphasis on relaxed, communal meals.
In addition to dinner service, El Mercat will introduce brunch and lunch options exclusive to the new location. Expect brunch items like Spanish-style chorizo and eggs, and torrija — a dish reminiscent of French toast with a Spanish twist. A lineup of sandwiches, including BLTs, will be added to the lunch menu a few weeks after opening.
With anticipation building ahead of its August debut, El Mercat Bar de Tapas promises to offer Pentagon City diners a taste of Spain in the heart of Arlington.
