Take a tour of Alexandria’s storefronts lately and it’s clear that the restaurant scene is in a bit of flux. From openings to closures to re-openings to plans, there’s a lot going on at street level these days. Here are some eateries to anticipate – and one to bid farewell to, at least for a while.
Hank’s Pasta Bar Closes for Renovation, Rebranding
The pasta purveyor in North Old Town announced in early September that it would be closing its doors at the end of the month, and it followed through on Sept. 25.
“After 3 great years we have closed our doors, but we look forward to our future in the same great location with our new unnamed concept. Continue to follow us on Instagram for updates,” the restaurant posted Oct. 2 on Facebook.
Earlier statements from the restaurant have put the eatery’s reopening at the end of 2019.
Augie’s Mussel House Prepares for Reopening
Augie’s, which opened its patio last year at 1106 King Street for some warm-weather service while its indoor dining room was being renovated, reopens to the public this week after a few final days of recipe testing and soft launches. While the patio closed last December and was slated to be out of service for only “a couple of months,” anyone who’s ever undergone a home renovation knows how time can expand. Finally, though, the time is nigh for Augie’s fans.
Sisters Thai Continues Buildout in North Old Town
The popular Sisters Thai, which is a gem in in its two locations in Fairfax – including the popular Mosaic District – is preparing to set up shop in North Old Town in the new location at 530 First Street. The buildout of the restaurant space is moving along, and Sisters estimates a four-month process with the aim of being open by the end of January 2020.
Mount Purrnon Cat Café Signs Lease
It’s taken longer than co-founders Kristin Cowan and Adam Patterson might have wanted, but good things come to those who wait.
“OK cat ladies and gents and winos, we FINALLY HAVE A SPACE! Mount Purrnon will be in Old Town! Purrfect for our history theme, we think,” the café announced on Facebook on Sept. 10. “We are hoping for spring opening as we have to go through permits processes etc.!”
By springtime, Mount Purrnon – and its adoptable cats – will be moving into 109 S. Alfred Street, Patterson confirmed to the Gazette this week. Beer, wine and café snacks will be on the menu once the shop opens its doors.
Hope Nelson owns and operates the Kitchen Recessionista blog, located at www.kitchenrecessionista.com. Email her any time at hope@kitchenrecessionista.com.