Japanese Pak Soii Izakaya & Bar Planned for Del Ray Spot Formerly Home to Zuki Moon

ALEXANDRIA, VA — A new full-service Japanese restaurant, Pak Soii Izakaya & Bar, is set to open at 1909 Mount Vernon Avenue in Del Ray, taking over the space that formerly housed Zuki Moon.

According to a Special Use Permit application filed with the City of Alexandria, the new eatery will be operated by JCJ 828 LLC, with Nat Chainam as managing member (70% ownership) and Jamel Hicks as member (30% ownership). The application was submitted by agent Chrissie Chang on behalf of the ownership group.

From Zuki Moon to Pak Soii

The team signed a lease for the property in April 2025, inheriting the existing restaurant setup from Zuki Moon, which closed last year. The application indicates no major renovations are planned—only cosmetic updates such as painting and decoration, along with installation of an additional water heater to meet Department of Health requirements.

Menu and Atmosphere

The new restaurant will operate as an izakaya—a casual Japanese dining concept offering small plates alongside drinks. Planned offerings include sushi and sashimi, rice bowls, skewers, and other small plates. The owners anticipate serving about 120 patrons per day, primarily drawing from the local Del Ray community.

Hours and Operations

The proposed hours are:

• Sunday–Thursday: 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

• Friday–Saturday: 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

The restaurant will seat 38 guests and employ a staff of seven. A Virginia ABC license for beer, wine, and mixed beverages is pending; the previous operator also held a similar license.

No private parking will be provided—customers and employees will use nearby public parking. The application notes that background music will be played inside, with no anticipated noise issues.

Administrative Change of Ownership

The SUP request is classified as an administrative change of ownership with no major operational changes. This process allows the city’s Director of Planning and Zoning to approve the permit without a full City Council hearing if certain conditions are met.

If approved, Pak Soii Izakaya & Bar will join the vibrant Mount Vernon Avenue dining scene in the coming months.