It’s All in the Family for Two Hollin Hall Village Restaurants
Via Veneto and Roseina’s are more than just next-door neighbors now.
Alexandria, VA – Via Veneto owner Kathy Mack knows a thing or two about family. For 40 years, she was part of a loving restaurant family who owned the popular Italian eatery in the Alexandria neighborhood of Hollin Hall Village. But when the time came to pass the baton to the next owner, Kathy knew she needed to find just the right buyer to continue the legacy her mother started.
Little did she know that the new owner was hiding in plain sight.
Sarai Navarrete and her husband, Jose, bought the gourmet carryout and catering restaurant Roseina’s in 2021, right next door to Via Veneto in Hollin Hall. Soon enough, Kathy and her staff became friendly with their new neighbors.
After an outside offer for purchase fell through, Sarai was having a casual conversation with one of the staff at Via Veneto. He wondered aloud whether Sarai and Jose had ever considered buying Via Veneto. Sarai was intrigued.
“A seed was planted,” said Sarai. She and Jose discussed the matter at length. “It was a great opportunity. We know the community, and we love being here, so what could be more appropriate than expanding our service?” The Navarretes approached Kathy, and they all began to plan.
Kathy Mack was beside herself. “I couldn’t have asked for a better scenario,” she said. “They want to carry on the legacy that my mother and aunt established and keep the same menu and personnel.” Needless to say, the staff was thrilled.
Twin Facebook announcements from Kathy and from Sarai and Jose made it official in late July. Kathy bid a bittersweet adieu, expressing appreciation for the community’s support over 40 years and placing her gratitude and trust in Sarai and Jose. And the Navarretes pledged to continue the same delicious cuisine and welcoming atmosphere where memories are created and friendships flourish.
The Navarretes have gratefully accepted the baton from Kathy to carry forward. They want to show respect for the entire Via Veneto family, so diners can expect to see familiar menus and specials. “Of course, we will also introduce new daily specials,” Sarai explained. “While the recipes are not changing, people who have loved Via Veneto for 40 years will have new items to try.”
“Sarai and Jose will do a wonderful job,” said Kathy. “And I’m not going away for good! I’ll still come in and help from time to time. The customers who support and love this restaurant have become like family. They are so dear to me. I look forward to seeing them again.”
As the outpouring of love and support rolls in on Facebook, it’s obvious the feeling is, indeed, mutual.
Visit Via Veneto and Roseina’s in the Hollin Hall Village Shopping Center, 1309 and 1307 Shenandoah Rd., at the corner of Fort Hunt Rd., Alexandria, VA 22308.
