Alexandria, VA – I hope you are all enjoying the beautiful spring weather, or should I say summer weather as the temperature hovers around 90°. As we move through April and into May, the cherry blossoms and daffodils are gone but are being replaced by massive azaleas displays and dogwoods. Irises in many colors and varieties are also popping up all over gardens. I hope you are getting out and enjoying the many restaurant patios for your meals.
Reincarnations
L’italiano Vero is replacing Sunday in Saigon at 682 N St Asaph St. as reported last month. Opening in May, the menu will feature pizza, pasta, sandwiches, and of course, cannoli. “Mozzarella and parmesan cheeses will be featured prominently, creating mouthwatering cheese pulls when paired with chef-curated, imported provolone.” There will also be a full bar. Helena’s Mexican Restaurant opened on April 4 in the former Tanger Kabob at 5735 Telegraph Rd. The menu features many appetizer favorites like guacamole and queso dip. There are two ceviches on the menu: Ceviche Citrico featuring fresh fish in a pineapple passionfruit-habanero marinade and Ceviche de Camarones with shrimp in a habanero lime/lemon blend. There are two varieties of pozole and several tacos, fajitas, and enchiladas. The restaurant is closed on Mondays, and opens Tuesday through Sunday at 11:00 am.
Also reopened is Bugsy’s Pizza and Sports Bar at 111 King St. after a fire on March 19. The owners announced the official opening date was April 26, while thanking their patrons. “First of all we want to thank everyone for their support during this time that we have been closed.” The interior has been refreshed and the menu features all of your favorites. I’m looking forward to The Mediterranean – a traditional thin crust, garlic herb sauce, mozzarella, fresh spinach, roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, Greek olives, and onions. Pitango Gelato and Coffee is opening at 115 S. Union St. This is the eighth store for Noah Dan, the founder of the chain. “Pitango serves artisanal gelato made with organic, grassfed milk and vegan sorbets made with organic fruit. No artificial flavors- just wholesome goodness… We prepare gelato and sorbets on the farm to source milk from Spring Wood’s single herd, eggs from its free-range hens and fruit from local orchards.”
Ben’Yays, 1028 King St. (the former home of Lori’s Table), is now open. They are providing Alexandria with a taste of New Orleans style beignets with powdered or cinnamon sugar and a choice of dipping sauces. Try a cup of their signature coffees as you enjoy your warm beignets. Or, try the Chicory Café Au Lait made from roasted, ground, and brewed chicory root with steamed milk. There are also an array of espresso and teas to enjoy.
Congrats to our local Rammy finalists
The Rammy is an annual awards honor the accomplishments of the DC region’s restaurant and food service community. Glory Days Grill, 3141 Duke St., is nominated for the Favorite Gathering Place. The award recognizes “a restaurant rooted in its neighborhood where guests come to eat, drink, and get together with friends over and over again. The great atmosphere – indoors or outdoors – and good vibes are as important as the food and drink.” Atlas Brew Works is a finalist in the Beer Program of the Year. The brewery will be opening in Alexandria at 2429 Mandeville Lane. “The establishment is distinguished by the quality, diversity, clarity and value of its beer program.”
Hi/Fi Tex-Mex BBQ (2000 Mt Vernon Ave. behind the Evening Star), Atlas Brew Works, and Andy’s Pizza (107 N Fayette St.) are finalists for the Favorite Fast Bites award. A “nominee is a delicatessen, quick-serve restaurant, bakery, mobile food vendor, or coffee shop (with food menu) that demonstrates a dedication to good food and good service in a fast-casual environment.” Andrew Dana and Daniela Moreira, owners of the Call Your Mother, (1300 King St.), Timber Pizza, Turu’s, and Mercy Me are finalists in the Restaurateur of the Year category. “The nominee must be a working restaurateur or restaurant group who sets high standards in restaurant operations and entrepreneurship.”
Calling all StarWars fans
We all know about May 4th, but do you know TruMoo®, a farmer-owned brand from Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), in collaboration with Lucasfilm, is releasing Star Wars™ TruMoo® Blue Milk, inspired by Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge®. The taste is inspired by a galaxy far, far away, but also harnesses the power of protein-packed, real-dairy milk to fuel adventures of all kinds. Blue milk first appeared in Star Wars: A New Hope and was only available at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge® in Disney parks. It will be available in half gallon and gallon sizes for a limited time at selected Target and Walmart stores.
Until next time, eat well and enjoy.
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