This article serves as a guide to the latest dining spots that have opened their doors in September. If you know of any new establishments in your vicinity that we haven’t covered, please reach out to us at dc@eater.com.
Tenleytown: The latest addition to the Chai Pani family has officially launched in Upton Place as of Wednesday, October 14. Botiwalla features a delightful menu showcasing grilled chicken, lamb, and paneer skewers served in warm buttered naan, alongside basmati rice bowls, and refreshing salads loaded with cabbage. Meals are priced affordably, ranging from $12 to $15. For those craving a taste of street food, the restaurant offers fan-favorite items from its sibling Chai Pani, such as the bhel puri—a mix of puffed rice and fried snacks, spicy okra fries, and vada pav, a savory dish with fried potato patties on toasted buns. The establishment stands out from typical fast-casual eateries with its vibrant décor, detailed murals, and bright marigold accents. Families will particularly enjoy the kids’ menu, which features grilled naan filled with cheese, chicken bites, and an engaging paper menu that includes games, crossword puzzles, and colorful crayons for children to express their creativity. 4000 Wisconsin Avenue NW
Alexandria: A beloved South Korean dessert café made its grand entrance in the U.S. on Saturday, October 17, in Old Town, occupying a spacious 2,600-square-foot area. Twosome Place is renowned for its expertly crafted specialty coffee and decadent cakes, including a tempting strawberry chocolate cream cake alongside a much-acclaimed ice box cake. In addition to its sweet offerings, this Alexandria location will introduce an exciting drink menu that features a Dalgona cream top, black sesame latte, and a Misugaru frappe, as well as an all-day menu that highlights K-toast with bulgogi and egg, K-chicken panini, and bibimbowls. 404 King Street, Alexandria, Virginia
Arlington: PopUp Bagels, the acclaimed bagel sensation from New York City, known for its celebrity endorsements from the likes of Paul Rudd and Michael Phelps, has launched a new location in Virginia. This latest opening, which took place on Friday, October 23, is part of a strategic expansion that plans to establish 20 locations throughout the D.C. metro area. The unique offering encourages diners to engage with their food through the “rip-and-dip” concept, allowing patrons to rip chunks off their warm bagels to dip into an assortment of cream cheese. Bagels are sold in packs, and the menu boasts a rotating selection of flavored schmears, including a Guinness chocolate cake variety and a special salted caramel cider doughnut schmear crafted in collaboration with Good Company Doughnuts. 4300 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, Virginia
Cathedral Heights: A charming new beer garden with roots in Old Town Alexandria has recently expanded its reach to Washington D.C., opening on Monday, October 26, just a short walk from the National Cathedral. Augie’s Mussel House & Beer Garden specializes in a range of mussels and clams, offering various preparations such as a beer and bacon broth, Creole seasoned dishes with andouille sausage, and a Tex-Mex spin featuring chorizo and grilled corn. Complementing these seafood options, patrons can enjoy both local and Belgian beer selections. The expansive 150-seat venue includes multiple screens for streaming live sports, outfitted with 15 TVs and a massive 180-inch projector screen. A vibrant mural celebrates the local sports culture, as well as the venue’s signature mussels dish and its proximity to the National Cathedral. 3228 Wisconsin Avenue NW
Chevy Chase: A neighborhood staple, Buck’s Fishing & Camping, has quietly unveiled a new wine bar right next door this month, as reported by Washingtonian. This intimate bar, which accommodates only 20 guests, offers around six selections of wine by the glass and a remarkable collection of 400 bottles paired with some rotating snack options. The wine bar operates every Saturday and will be open on select weekdays for public access while reserving other times for private events, according to the report. 5027 Connecticut Avenue NW
Navy Yard: A new dining venue with a Latin twist featuring seafood, meats, pastas, and customized martinis is now open, debuting on Wednesday, October 28. Named Bar Nuestro, this restaurant is situated at the base of the Urby luxury apartment complex. Under the direction of Executive Chef Harper McClure, who previously led the kitchen at the celebrated Le Diplomate, Bar Nuestro presents dishes like yellowtail crudo with a unique soursop leche de tigre, yuca beignets enhanced with truffle and huitlacoche, and charred picanha served with a leek chimichurri sauce. Beverage Director Josh Murski curates an inventive cocktail menu that includes a build-your-own martini option, an espresso martini served from a tower, and a brown-butter washed Negroni among other creative cocktails. 1345 Yards Place SE
Penn Quarter: A striking new American restaurant, infused with a celestial theme, has opened at the base of the Arlo hotel as of Thursday, October 15, taking over the previous Arrels establishment. Altair is designed with a glass canopy reminiscent of a greenhouse, allowing diners to enjoy views of the night sky while savoring a diverse menu featuring everything from pristine oysters to rich duck dishes. The restaurant features 82 seats and is a creation of NYC-based Renwick Hospitality, reflecting the thematic inspiration from the four classic elements: earth, air, fire, and water. Menu highlights include smoked potato gnocchi and a rack of lamb, with cocktails infused with unique flavors such as mushroom butter categorized by element. The space is beautifully accented with a tree adorned with lanterns that casts a soft glow over the lounge-like seating area crafted in earthy tones and wood finishes. 333 G Street NW
