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Construction is well underway to transform Herndon’s former Burger King into a future Panda Express.

The Chinese American chain is “tentatively” aiming to open at 598 Elden Street in late July, though the timing could be affected by any construction delays, Panda Express public relations representative Brittany Rouse says.


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This summer, Great Falls diners will be able to escape the D.C. region’s heat at a new restaurant designed to mentally transport patrons to a rustic mountain lodge.

Great Falls Lodge Bar & Grill is on track for a soft launch at 9835 Georgetown Pike in Great Falls Center in the first week of July, with a potential opening as soon as Monday, June 29, according to owner and chef Neel Kamal.


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Maggiano’s Little Italy is making its return to Tysons, bringing back its hallmark “family style” pastas and Italian fare after a months-long relocation process.

The popular Italian restaurant will open its new location at Tysons Corner Center on Monday (June 15) after closing in September at Tysons Galleria across Route 123. There, the restaurant will continue to serve Italian cuisine and shareable dishes in a massive 17,000-square-foot space previously held by Brio.


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Two years after “coming soon” signs started teasing its arrival, KPot has finally opened its doors at the South Alex development in Penn Daw.

The Korean barbecue and hot pot chain had a soft launch for its newest Fairfax County location at 6224A North Kings Highway last Thursday, June 4, welcoming local residents who had been awaiting the incoming restaurant since 2024.


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Dogfish Head Alehouse’s long-awaited return to Fairfax County will take a little longer than expected.

While the restaurant had originally targeted a summer 2026 opening, owner Viswa Vasireddy has confirmed to FFXnow that the new location at 11995 Inspiration Street in Reston Town Center is now likely to open in the fall.


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The former Velocity Wings at University Mall has reopened under a reimagined concept, offering the restaurant’s staple chicken wings and a broader lineup of American comfort foods.

Velocity Bar + Kitchen is now open at 10697 Braddock Road, reflecting the business’ evolution “into a more expansive, full-service dining experience while continuing to serve the signature wings guests know and love,” according to a press release from hospitality group Thompson Restaurants.


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An upscale omakase restaurant has its sights set on Reston for its next “sushi speakeasy.”

Sushi by Bou appears to be expanding with a new location inside the Hyatt Regency Reston (1800 Presidents Street), near Capital Grille. The restaurant — a high-end chain self-described as “an exclusive omakase hideaway where tradition meets innovation” — offers just three omakase spreads to choose from, along with various sides, spirits and cocktails.


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An acclaimed Chinese restaurant with Sichuan-style noodles and dumplings is planning a new location in Tysons.

Mian Sichuan Noodle is preparing to open at 8395 Leesburg Pike in Pike 7 Plaza, replacing a vacancy left by the decades-old China Wok restaurant last summer. Exterior signage for Mian Sichuan Noodle has appeared at the retail bay after the restaurant applied for a permit there earlier this year.


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A new fast-casual cafe has opened its doors in Merrifield’s Mosaic District, with a menu focused on “health-conscious living.”

Pura Vida Miami is now open, serving up all-day breakfast, acai bowls, salads and more from its new space at 8296 Glass Alley, next to the Archer Hotel where Parc de Ville once stood.


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New York City-based food hall Wonder is continuing its regional expansion with a new location in Hybla Valley.

Wonder is hosting a grand opening next week for its new food hall at 7713 Fordson Road in the Fordson Place shopping center. Doors open at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 28, with festivities including giveaways and a ribbon cutting.


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