courtesy South Block
Last week heard that a Union Kitchen was was coming to IAD. Next up – a South Block:
“South Block has been cleared for landing. In 2024, the better-for-you brand — dishing up acai bowls, smoothies, and cold-pressed juices — will arrive in Concourse D at Washington Dulles International Airport.
South Block is a northeast staple that has 15 locations across D.C., Maryland, and Virginia — making the local partnership all the sweeter.
“We jumped at the opportunity,” said Amir Mostafavi, founder and CEO of South Block. “This is an exciting step for our brand, and we can’t wait to bring our good vibes and fresh food to the Dulles block. We know travelers will enjoy a quick, nutritious, and delicious option as they come through the airport.”
The deal was facilitated by Baldi Management Group (BMG), in partnership with Fraport USA and the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority. BMG operates a number of successful brands at Dulles and Reagan National airports, including Dunkin Donuts, Smashburger, Auntie Anne’s, Potbelly, and Timber Pizza.
“There’s nothing more satisfying than bringing great local brands to our hometown airport!” said Stephen Baldi, BMG founder. “South Block will be a fantastic addition and a fresh option for busy travelers.”
Known as Northern Virginia’s first cold-pressed micro-juicery, South Block has been serving fan favorites like the Warrior Bowl and the Super Green Smoothie since 2011.
What’s more, it’s all about locals supporting locals. South Block’s airport location will feature on-the-go sandwiches and salads from D.C.-based Wellfound Foods, which offers fresh, healthy, and delicious options packaged for convenience and travel. It will also partner with Procure Impact to identify packaged snacks produced by local social enterprises, creating job opportunities for those who have faced significant barriers to work.
“The airport is a perfect place to showcase amazing products made by talented people within our local communities,” said Lauren McCann, Procure Impact’s co-founder. “We are excited to expand our mission and be part of this team!”
In January 2024, South Block entered into a growth partnership with Savory Fund, a private equity firm that invests in emerging restaurant concepts — with Mostafavi staying on as CEO and steersman.
This year, in addition to the Dulles airport, South Block will add three brick-and-mortar stores to its location lineup: Chantilly and Fairfax in Virginia; and West End in Washington D.C.”