June’s Foody Newz–Alexandria is Serving Up Sweet, Salty and Savory

Alexandria is Serving Up Sweet, Salty and Savory

By Debbie Critchley

ALEXANDRIA, VA- Have you heard about the Acme Pie Co. at 2803 Columbia Pike? I’m hearing that they make fabulous pies. They sell their pies whole or by the slice. These pies are made with fresh fruits such as apples, pears, and berries. Also available are favorites like coconut and pecan pies. lemon chess and the veggie quiche and small blueberry lemon and maple pecan chocolate pies. Crusts are awesome! Hours are Tuesday through Friday 3 P.M.-9 P.M., Sat & Sun 9 A.M.-3 P.M. Closed Monday.

Kimen Ramen Izaka, 4217 John Marr Dr., Annandale, brings a new choice for lunch and dinner close to the West End. Kimen breaks the traditional Korean trend in this area by serving Japanese dishes such as takoyaki, gyoza, and a variety of ramens including miso, shoyu, spicy chasu pork, and shoyu pork ramen. According to the owner, Kimen I.: “We are authentic Japanese restaurant owned by Korean owner. We do have some items that are Korean such as Kimchi and soju but other than that the menu is completely Japanese. The chef went to Japan to learn everything for 2 years and came back to help open the shop.” The funky anime painted mural adds to the fun vibe of the restaurant. There are only nine tables and seating at the bar. Kimen is opens daily at 11:30 A.M.

Java Grill, 611 King St., an approximately 60-seat restaurant offering a variety of breakfast, lunch, and dinner has asked to increase their hours to remain open until 11. That means you’ll still be able to find the same beer and wine and menu. “We’ve noticed that we have a lot of patrons come in five minutes before closing to get some desserts and coffee,” said manager Katarina Tran. “We want to bring people in who want a late dinner as well.” There will be a new Taqueria at 3901-B Mount Vernon Ave. open from 10 A.M. until midnight daily. The menu will feature authentic Mexican food including tacos al pastor, steaks, and soups. There will be plenty of large screen TVs so you can watch your favorite games while enjoying your tacos.

For Five is a coffee shop soon to open at 1800 Diagonal Rd.. They are a micro-roasting facility based in Queens, New York and will be serving specialty coffees and snacks, breakfast including oatmeal, fruit, vegetables, eggs, bagels, and pancakes. Lunch will be deli-style sandwiches, wraps, and salads. Dinner will offer both breakfast and lunch items. Restaurant hours will be from 6 A.M. until 7 P.M. Monday through Friday and from 7 A.M. until 7 P.M on Saturday and Sunday. Seating will include 35 inside seats and 20 outside seats on the patio. Hinata Sushi Bar & Grill will be opening in Old Town North at the new Edens development at 530 First St. This will be the first location for Chef Hyun Su Kim. The 2,200 square-foot restaurant is an open space with custom murals.

The old warehouse renewal on the Alexandria waterfront is starting to take shape in what will be called Robinson Landing. The Mill, 10 Duke St., will feature a modern take on Southern comfort food and market. As mentioned in a previous column, the Mill joins an upscale restaurant and café from Alexandria Restaurant Partners (ARP). The new owner, Murray Bonitt of Bonitt builders said in a statement, “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.” The market will offer a variety of coffees, prepared foods, pastries, beer, and wine. ARP is also bringing Riverside Taco Company to the Old Town Waterfront at 105-107 North Union St., just a short walk to their sister restaurant, Vola’s Dockside Grill.! Enjoy appetizers, tacos, bowls, and refreshing beverages including margaritas, cervezas (beer), and sodas from Alexandria Restaurant Partners. Housed in an Airstream trailer with surrounding garden and patio seating, you’ll be able to grab your food and drinks on the waterfront outside the Torpedo Factory.