OK back to playing catch up from what I missed last week. This is a sad. And sadly more, well, sad ones to come…
From a press release:
“After five years, Tonari will close its doors on May 3, 2026, marking the end of a restaurant that brought a distinct and vibrant perspective to Washington’s dining scene.
Since opening in February 2020, Tonari introduced Washington to wafu-Italian cuisine, a style long established in Japan that blends Japanese ingredients and sensibilities with Italian forms. With Detroit-style pizzas made using flour from Japan and pastas produced in a ramen factory in Sapporo using Hokkaido flour, Tonari offered a level of craft and detail that set it apart.(more…)
“Ashok Bajaj of Knightsbridge Restaurant Group is pleased to announce the Monday, April 6, 2026, official opening of Rosselli, at 1100 New York Ave, NW, (entrance on 12th and H Streets), in the heart of downtown Washington. Bajaj tapped Martin Vahtra of Project Design Associates to transform the former restaurant, Modena, into an exciting new space for enjoying Italian fare. Michelin-starred chef Carlos Cardona has been named the executive chef. The Italian name Rosselli literally means “rose,” the flower. (more…)
“Interior of Capitano. Photo courtesy of Nina Palazzolo.”
From a press release:
“Capitano, a new Italian dining destination, is set to open this March in Washington, DC. Located at The Wharf DC – DC’s dynamic waterfront neighborhood – Capitano (975 7th Street, SW) will bring the warmth of Italy to the heart of the capital, with a seasonal, ingredient-driven menu inspired by Southern and Coastal Italian cuisine.
Capitano blends tradition with a touch of modern ease. It’s approachable, never fussy and where a plate of housemade pasta or the day’s crudo feels just as natural with a spritz at lunch as it does with a bottle of wine under the evening lights. (more…)
“From Advanced sommelier and owner of Apero & La Boheme, and husband and wife team Chef Jenn Castaneda-Jones and Stephen Jones, comes Ellizabetta | La Strega, Italian with a little magic… Spring 2026…”
Thanks to Chris for sending: “Something New In Old Marcel’s Space. I just saw a liquor license placard go up in the old Marcel’s space at 2401 Pennsylvania Ave NW. (more…)