Issuu

GLP-1s Rapid Rise of The

Weight loss meds are reshaping society. Are they miracle drugs or too good to be true?

Financial challenges can feel daunting, but the solution is closer than you think. Our expert team of nancial advisors is here to provide the clarity and guidance you need to take control of your nancial future. Don’t let uncertainty hold you back. A path towards financial peace of mind is right in front of you. Let’s start the conversation.

CON TENTS

HEALTH & WELLNESS

38 Weighty Issues

Weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Zepbound are suddenly everywhere, with life-changing results. But the costs are steep, and so is the judgment.

48 Top Doctors

Our area’s very best family physicians, pediatricians, surgeons and specialists, as chosen by their peers in the medical community.

76 Top Dentists

See your way to a healthier smile with the best local dentists, orthodontists and oral surgeons, as selected by their professional peers.

PEOPLE

92 Extraordinary Teen Awards

There are many ways to be extraordinary. These exemplary students are models of tenacity, curiosity and the belief that better days lie ahead.

Illustration by Jess Lemon

DONNA OWENS

Musician and Meridian High School graduate Hannah Boesen

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CON TENTS

122 Places to Eat

See our dining guide for bite-size writeups on more than 250 area restaurants and bars.

134 Driving Range

Celebrate summer with outdoor concerts, hilarious comedy, patriotic displays and the return of the Arlington County

20 Big Picture

America turns 250 this year, and these historic reenactors are here for it.

22 My Life

A simple post office errand turns into an all-day odyssey for a hapless groom-to-be. 24 Familiar Faces

If you love vintage fashion and vinyl, this groovy boutique is a fun place to shop and hang out. 108 Prime Numbers

The area’s most expensive home sales. Plus, residential real-estate trends by ZIP code in Arlington, McLean and Falls Church. 112 Great Spaces

Who knew a laundry room could be so enchanting?

115 Home Plate

Where to grab crispy fried chicken, a healthy smoothie or a chirashi lunch with beer pairings.

The Little City welcomes a buzzy new restaurant and beer garden in a former motor lodge.

Bruce Springsteen put Asbury Park on the map, and the gay community revitalized it. Time to revisit this charming New Jersey seaside town.

140 Get Away

Santa Fe has a flavor all its own, and summer is a great time to go.

144 Back Story

A tale of Olympic glory with an Arlington athlete on the top of the podium.

STYLES. AWAKENED.

RALPH LAUREN

letter from the publisher

Miracle Drug?

IN JANUARY 2024, we published “Here’s the Skinny on Those New Weight-Loss Drugs,” our first story on GLP-1s. At that time, many people had heard of Ozempic and maybe Wegovy, but the term GLP-1 did not yet resonate with most of us.

Fast forward two and half years, and these drugs seem to be everywhere now. In the past week alone, I’ve had two friends tell me that they are taking GLP-1s to lose weight. According to a reputable study, one in five Americans—that’s nearly 70 million people— have tried them. Usage has quadrupled in the past few years. That’s an incredible adoption rate. Not AI levels (roughly half of Americans use some form of AI), but it’s still a remarkable increase.

This phenomenon explains why the cover story of our annual health issue is dedicated to GLP-1s.

In “Weighty Issues,” writer Adrienne Wichard-Edds takes a deep dive into these drugs—how they work, the health benefits and risks, the lifestyle changes that may occur and the social implications of taking them. As far as I can tell, these drugs may be poised to transform our society and finally end what the CDC describes as a national obesity epidemic.

Rounding out the health issue are our annual Top Doctors and Top Dentists lists. The featured healthcare providers were selected by Professional Research Services (PRS), which conducted an online peer review survey of professionals in Arlington County, Fairfax County, the City of Falls Church and the City of Alexandria. Additional analysis was conducted (refer to the lists for additional details), and it’s worth noting that Arlington Magazine was not involved in the selection process.

Shifting to another group of impressive individuals, this issue features our 2026 Extraordinary Teen Award winners. Every February, we create a nomination form and share it with parents, the schools and the communities we serve. All of this year’s nominees were impressive, which made it a real challenge for our editorial staff to select only 10 teens. I think you will agree that the 2026 winners are as extraordinary as ever, including successful entrepreneurs, athletes, artists, environmentalists and, potentially, a future physician, astronaut and elected official.

On a personal note, it’s been a difficult few weeks for my family. My mom passed away on May 20, 2026. She was 91. My sister and I were blessed to be with her when she died. She was a wonderful mother, and we will miss her dearly.

I hope you find our July/August Health issue to be informative and enjoyable. Thank you for reading Arlington Magazine. If you’re not a subscriber, please consider becoming one. Visit ArlingtonMaga zine.com and click “subscribe.” You can also sign up for our email newsletter, which provides fun, useful, community-focused content throughout the week. And as always, we love hearing from you. I can be reached at greg.hamilton@arlingtonmagazine.com. Have a great summer!

Greg Hamilton Publisher & Owner

A LITTLE ABOUT MY WORK

Hi there, I’m Gabrielle Witkin, a real estate advisor with TTR Sotheby’s International Realty. I live in North Arlington, I raise my family here, and I care deeply about the experience my clients have when they decide to make a move.

I specialize in advising discerning sellers in North Arlington & McLean, helping them position their homes for exceptional outcomes through honest guidance, elevated marketing, and a strategy rooted in how high-end buyers actually think.

My approach is calm, clear, and deeply local. I don’t believe in chaos or pressure I believe in preparation, intention, and presenting a home in a way that reflects its value and the lifestyle it offers

Julia Saperstein

HOME: A West Coast transplant, Saperstein lives with her family in Arlington’s Tara-Leeway Heights neighborhood.

IN THIS ISSUE: Photographed Jessica Stanis, owner of Falls Church vintage boutique Coco Cameo

Letters

PEOPLE PERSON: “As a photographer of people and stories, I am fortunate to be welcomed into my subjects’ worlds. These collaborations create connection and empathy. I once photographed 42 physicians over three days and left with the realization that there as many ways to provide care as there are providers. I saw 42 docs bring their unique selves to the job.”

CURRENTLY WORKING ON: “A personal project documenting sliceof-life moments for young people from preschool through high school. I love seeing the extraordinary moments unfold in an ordinary day.”

STAYING HEALTHY: “I am a former Division I collegiate swimmer (University of San Diego) and swim coach. I still swim every day. I also play tennis recreationally on local club and USTA teams, and coach tennis at Swanson Middle School.”

FUN FACT: “Early in my career I was a talent scout for an independent jazz record label in San Francisco.”

ONLINE: www.jlsfoto.com and @juliasaperstein

When I saw the headline “Pick Your Poison” in the May/June issue, I was expecting a story about the concerning rise in marijuana shops and the growing acceptance of drug use. Instead, I got a promotion piece for weed as a healthy alternative to alcohol. The THC industry could not have written a more effective article. People who are drinking heavily or drinking to take the edge off need help, not weed. Weed’s effect on the brain and Cannabis Use Disorder are realities that should not be ignored. I implore you to write another article to stem the tide of people using drugs or alcohol to mask their wounds rather than seeking healing.

—Miriam Buono, Arlington

PUBLISHER & OWNER

Greg Hamilton

EDITOR

Jenny Sullivan

ART DIRECTOR

Laura Goode

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Danny Ryan

DIGITAL EDITORS

Stephanie Kanowitz, Helen Partridge

WEB PRODUCER

Erin Roby

DINING CRITIC

Warren Rojas

COPY EDITOR

Barbara Ruben

CO-FOUNDER

Steve Hull

WRITERS

Jennifer Barger, Tim Ebner, Lisa Grace Lednicer, Kim O’Connell, David Rifkin, Carole Sugarman, Adrienne Wichard-Edds

PHOTOGRAPHERS & ILLUSTRATORS

Skip Brown, Mary Pat Collins, Jean Frank, Lisa Helfert, Jess Lemon, Deb Lindsey, Donna Owens, Nina Palazzolo, Shelly Pate, Dusana Riscovic, Julia Saperstein, Hilary Schwab, Tom Thongkam, Michael Ventura, Stephanie Williams

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Traci Ball, Kristin Murphy, Lori Reale

FINANCE & CIRCULATION MANAGER

Julie Rosenbaum

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Letters to the Editor:

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Phone: 703-534-0519

AROUND TOWN

by Stephanie Kanowitz

GET LIFTED

JULY 18, 7 P.M.

Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue

Wolf Trap

The New Orleans native and horns phenom who made his musical debut at age 4 (playing alongside Bo Diddley) is joined by the legendary Mavis Staples and powerhouse duo

The War and Treaty for an electrifying evening of jazz, funk, rock, pop, R&B, soul and a tinge of country. Tickets start at $62.50. 1551 Trap Road, Vienna, wolftrap.org

MUSIC

JULY 9 AND AUG. 15, 5:30-8 P.M.

Rosslyn LIVE

Gateway Park

This festive summer series features live bands, local bites and an outdoor “pub in the park.” Bring a picnic blanket, lawn chair and your besties. Free. 1300 Langston Blvd., Arlington, rosslynva.org

JULY 24-25, 7 P.M.

Bob Dylan

Filene Center at Wolf Trap

The legendary singer/songwriter takes the stage with Lucinda Williams and Jimmie Vaughan, a former member of The Fabulous Thunderbirds and brother of the late Stevie Ray Vaughan. Tickets begin at $65.50. 1551 Trap Road, Vienna, wolftrap.org

JULY 31, 7 P.M.

KIDZ BOP Live Birthday

Concert

Filene Center at Wolf Trap

The beloved music brand that turns pop hits into kid-friendly tunes is turning 25 this year. Come prepared for a Daddy Dance Off and Mommy-oke Battle. Tickets begin at $51. 1551 Trap Road, Vienna, wolftrap.org

AUG. 14, 7:30 P.M.

Who’s Bad: The Ultimate Michael Jackson Experience

Birchmere Music Hall

This spring’s release of the Michael biopic has put the King of Pop back in the spotlight, and this tribute band tours the world playing his most enduring hits. Tickets are $39.50. 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, birchmere.com

AUG. 18, 3 AND 6 P.M.

The Wiggles: Tree of Wisdom Spectacular!

Capital One Hall

Bring the kiddos to sing along and get their wiggles out to a setlist of old and new favorite songs. Tickets begin at

HARRY CONNICK JR.

JULY 3

STAR WARS: RETURN OF THE JEDI IN CONCERT

National Symphony Orchestra

JULY 9

DANIEL DONATO’S COSMIC COUNTRY & MOLLY TUTTLE

JULY 1

A.R. RAHMAN

National Symphony Orchestra

JULY 10

DISNEY’S THE LITTLE MERMAID IN CONCERT

National Symphony Orchestra

JULY 11

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

SARAH McLACHLAN

Allison Russell

JULY 5

ALISON KRAUSS & UNION STATION

Ft. Jerry Douglas

JULY 16 + 17

PEPE AGUILAR

JULY 12

LINDSEY STIRLING

PVRIS

JULY 14

TORI AMOS

Bartees Strange

JULY 22

THE HEAD AND THE HEART

Wilderado

JULY 26

LIZZO

National Symphony Orchestra

JULY 7

TROMBONE SHORTY & ORLEANS AVENUE

Mavis Staples

The War And Treaty

JULY 18

JOE BONAMASSA

GOV’T MULE

JULY 29

JASON ISBELL AND THE 400 UNIT

Patty Griffin

JULY 30

KIDZ BOP LIVE

JULY 31

CHANCE THE RAPPER

AUG 1

…AND MANY MORE!

$53.60. 7750 Capital One Tower Road, Tysons, capitalonehall.com

AUG. 27, 8 P.M.

Chatham County Line

Jammin’ Java

This North Carolina quartet has topped Billboard’s bluegrass charts four times, but its repertoire also includes folk, Americana, country and rock. Tickets are $27. 227 Maple Ave., E., Vienna, jamminjava.com

AUG. 28, 8 P.M.

Jimmie’s Chicken Shack

The State Theatre

Dust off your Doc Martens and relive the 1990s with the band known for hits such as “High” and “Do Right.” Tickets $16$19. 220 N. Washington St., Falls Church, thestatetheatre.com

PERFORMING ARTS

JULY 10 AND AUG. 21, 6:30-9 P.M.

Improv Comedy

Upside on Moore

Swing by Rosslyn’s favorite food hall and spend an hour snacking and mingling before the laughs begin at 7:30 p.m.

Each show stars performers from the D.C. improv scene. Free. 1700 N. Moore St., Arlington, upsideonmoore.com

JULY 17-AUG. 2

1776

Alden Theatre

Celebrate America’s 250th birthday and the signing of the Declaration of Independence as the McLean Community Players reenact how John Adams, Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson persuaded the Second Continental Congress to vote for sovereignty. 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean, mcleancenter.org

JULY 17-26

The Addams Family

Encore Stage and Studio

They’re creepy, kooky, mysterious and spooky, and we love them for it. See what makes the Addams family so endearing in this hometown production suitable for audiences ages 8 and older. Tickets are $22 for adults, $18 for children. Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre, 125 S. Old Glebe Road, Arlington, encorestage.org

AUG. 7-8, 7 P.M. AND 9:30 P.M.

Kevin Herrera

Arlington Cinema & Drafthouse

Get ready to guffaw at the comedian’s observations about relationships, parent-

DANCE IN THE PARK

JULY 2-30, 7 P.M.

McLean Summer Concert Series

McLean Central Park

Catch a summer vibe with Still Surfin’: A Tribute to the Beach Boys on July 2, and don’t sleep on Koo Koo, a comedic dance duo billed as “Beastie Boys meet Sesame Street,” on July 30. This free series also brings shows paying homage to one-hit wonders and go-go. Check the website for the full lineup. 1468 Dolley Madison Blvd., McLean, mcleancenter.org

ing and everyday life. Before he became a New York City police officer, Herrera struggled with opioid addiction—a battle he discusses candidly, with humor. Tickets begin at $42. 2903 Columbia Pike, Arlington, arlingtondrafthouse.com

AUG. 25-NOV. 1

Merrily We Roll Along

Signature Theatre

This Steven Sondheim musical follows the life stories of longtime friends in reverse chronological order. Over a span of 20 years, they leave the cynicism of age and revisit the optimism of their youth. Tickets begin at $47. 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington, sigtheatre.org

ART

JULY 12-AUG. 30, 10 A.M.-1 P.M. MoCA on the Move:

Summer Fun Family Series

Metropolitan Park

The Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington is bringing back its summertime art-making activities on Sundays. Bring the kids and enjoy live music while flexing those creative muscles. Free. 1400 S. Eads St., Arlington, mocaarlington.org

Koo Koo brings goofy grooves to McLean Central Park on July 30.

JULY 17, 6-8 P.M.

Dream Life Sip & Sketch

MoCA Innovation Studio and Store

Artist David Ignacio will lead this free, vision board-esque artmaking event with some drawing skills thrown in. 1400 S. Eads St., Arlington, mocaarlington.org

SEASONAL

JULY 2, 5-7:30 P.M.

America 250 Happy Hour: Pike Time Capsule Experience

William Jeffrey’s Tavern

Contribute your own stories, memories and reflections about life on the Pike to this community time capsule project. Free. 2301 Columbia Pike, Arlington, columbiapike.org

JULY 3, 6-10 P.M.

Civic Jam

Cherry Hill Park

Celebrate Independence Day with live music, local civic organizations, food from area restaurants and a lively beer garden in the leafy park next to Falls Church City

Hall. Admission is free. 312 Park Ave., Falls Church, fallschurchva.gov

JULY 3-4, 6-10 P.M.

Independence Fireworks

George Washington’s Mount Vernon

Where better to honor America’s milestone birthday than at the estate of the nation’s first president? The schedule includes a wreath-laying ceremony at Washington’s tomb, 18th-century activities and dancing, and a fireworks display. Tickets begin at $30.40 for youth and $41.60 for adults. 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, mountvernon.org

JULY 4, 11 A.M.- JULY 5, 2 A.M.

All Day Fourth of July

Shipgarten

Love lawn games? Spend the Fourth competing in potato sack races, water pong and cornhole tourneys. The party continues from 8 p.m.-2 a.m. with a DJ. Admission is free. Drinks and food will be available for purchase. 7581 Colshire Drive, McLean, shipgarten.com

JULY 18, 10 A.M.-7 P.M.

LibraryFest: Happy 250!

Arlington Central Library

This all-ages bash features the Jazz Quintet of The President’s Own United States Marine Band, along with other musical and spoken word performances, arts and crafts, singing story times, genealogy and digitization workshops, and cultural and historical demonstrations. Free. 1015 N. Quincy St., Arlington, arlingtonva.libcal.com

AUG. 1, 9:32 A.M.

Dark Star Park Day

Dark Star Park

Once a year, at precisely 9:32 a.m., the angle of the sun casts shadows in perfect alignment with the sculptural forms in Nancy Holt’s public art installation. The date and time mark the anniversary of Rosslyn’s founding. 1655 Fort Myer Drive, Arlington, arlingtonva.us

AUG. 12-16

Arlington County Fair

Thomas Jefferson Community Center

Ready for some wholesome, homegrown

SLICES OF LIFE

JULY 15, 6:30-8 P.M.

Baking in the American South with Anne Byrn

Arlington Central Library

The cookbook author will discuss her recipes and food in the context of American history as the library celebrates its 20th birthday and America’s semiquincentennial. Free. 1015 N. Quincy St., Arlington, arlingtonva.libcal.com

fun? For 50 years, the county fair has attracted thousands of visitors with midway rides, live entertainment, pieeating competitions, agricultural and craft displays, foam parties, a princess tent and the requisite corn dog, candy apple and funnel cake vendors. Admission is free. Rides and food carry fees. 3501 2nd St., S., Arlington, arlingtoncountyfair.us

AUTHORS & BOOKS

JULY 7, 6:30-7:30 P.M.

Author Talk: Jared Peatman

Mary Riley Styles Public Library

Calling all Civil War history buffs: Peatman’s A Hell of a Regiment chronicles the legendary 20th Maine, commanded by Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain, and its pivotal role in the Battle of Gettysburg. This free event is co-hosted in partnership with Bards Alley Bookshop. 120 N. Virginia Ave., Falls Church, mrspl.org

AUG. 4, 7 P.M.

Wings of Reverie Author Talk

One More Page Books

YA author Anna Bright, whose past books include The Beholder and The Hedgewitch of Foxhall, discusses her latest new release. Free. 2200 N. Westmoreland St., Arlington, onemorepagebooks.com

AUG. 29, 2-3:30 P.M.

Sweet Land of Liberty: A History of America in 11 Pies

Courthouse Branch Library

Certain pies—apple, molasses, sweet potato—are associated with key moments in our nation’s history. Learn about their sweet legacies and get the recipes from author Rossi Anastopoulo. Acme Pie Co. will be on site with baked goods for sale, too. Free. 2100 Clarendon Blvd., Arlington, arlingtonva.libcal.com

Got a calendar event we should know about? Submit it to editorial@arlingtonmagazine.com

A Revolutionary Idea

AMERICA’S SEMIQUINCENTENNIAL has prompted celebrations from sea to shining sea, including traveling history exhibits, block parties, volunteer days of service and star-studded performances. This year’s July 4th festivities will surely go out with an extra bang as the nation honors the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

But at George Washington’s Mount Vernon, the date is always somewhere in the vicinity of 1776. A visit to the estate’s impeccably preserved mansion, grounds and working farm finds life much as it was two and a half centuries ago.

Each year in May, some 400 historic reenactors converge on the Potomac riverfront property for the annual Revolutionary War Weekend, putting their

modern-day identities aside to assume colonial personas.

Soldiers donning hand-sewn breeches and tricorn hats march in formation, armed with muskets and bayonets and shouting “huzzah” under the smoke of cannon fire as they recreate key battles and skirmishes between the Continental Army and redcoats.

Some pose as Hessians, the German mercenary soldiers who fought alongside the British, identified by their distinctive metal headgear.

Actors portraying England’s King George, the Marquis de Lafayette and Washington himself receive top billing.

For visitors, this immersive livinghistory event offers an illuminating window into 18th-century life in Virginia. Tent encampments populate

the grounds, women in period garb cook over open fires, and artisans sell sundries such as handmade pottery, soap and rustic bread. Nurses tend to wounded soldiers in the field while youngsters gather kindling and fetch water. The mood is one of excitement, camaraderie and steely resolve.

On May 5, 1776, General Washington, in a letter to John Hancock, expressed concerns over the fate of The Cause: “The designs of the Enemy are too much behind the Curtain, for me to form any accurate opinion of their Plan of Operations for the Summers Campaign,” he wrote. “We are left to wander therefore in the field of conjecture.”

Plot spoiler: The Continental Army prevailed. May the American Experiment continue. ■

David Rifkin

Shelly Pate

Adventures at the Post Office

Neither snow, nor rain—nor stamps for a groom-to-be

I THOUGHT IT WOULD BE a simple errand: mailing the wedding invitations that my fiancée, Nicole, had so carefully designed for our fall nuptials.

Walking into my local post office in Clarendon, I said, “I’d like to mail some

mail, please.” Apparently, that was a bridge too far. “We don’t have any stamps,” the clerk curtly responded and sent me on my way.

Undeterred, I drove down Wilson Boulevard to the post office in Court-

house, where I was once again met with an empty stare and stamp drawer. The very institution ordained to supply postage had betrayed me twofold. My mind began replaying the Seinfeld scene of a rental car company with no cars to rent.

Wising up, I asked the man behind the counter in Courthouse to check in with the post office in Fort Myer, lest I make another stamp-less stop. “They have stamps,” he promised.

What he neglected to mention, which I discovered upon my arrival, was that our invitations were 0.1 oz. over the standard weight, due to their “vellum overlay” (a phrase Nicole had just added to my vocabulary), and the Fort Myer branch didn’t have the smaller denominations of stamps I needed.

Regaling the third postal clerk of my

“My mind began replaying the Seinfeld scene of a rental car company with no cars to rent.”

plight, and pleading that one man can endure only so many post office rejections, I asked which branch was sure to have the stamps I required. This elicited the insider tip that the source of all local stamps was the regional USPS hub in Merrifield, about 30 minutes away. Motivated to keep my fiancée happy and my wedding on track, I set off.

After waiting in a long line at Merrifield, I finally reached the counter and requested, “I would like to mail 86 wedding invitations with the minimum number of stamps possible.”

The kind woman behind the counter smiled and said, “The butterfly stamp will cover one ounce. The school bus stamp is the least expensive option to cover the remaining 0.1 ounce.”

“Wonderful!” I responded, credit card in hand, relieved that this misadventure was finally coming to an end.

“Um, sir?” she interjected gently before I could swipe my card. “Your invitations are beautiful,” she said, noting their elegant calligraphy, their sophisticated yet understated color palette of powder blue, French blue and white, and how nicely the pearlescent card stock complemented that sheer vellum overlay. “Do you think your fiancée might prefer if they were sent with something other than a cartoon school bus?”

The thought hadn’t quite crossed my mind.

“I can offer beautiful flower and leaf stamps for 56 cents more per stamp,” she suggested.

Facing a dilemma as old as time, my heart and mind did battle over aesthetic minutiae vs. fiscal prudence. Observing me in the throes of gridlock—with an ever-growing line of impatient customers behind me—the clerk added, “I’m so excited because the butterfly and leaf go together so naturally, like husband and wife!” Such deep philosophical analogue was unassailable. I was sold.

And so began my next trial—affixing 172 stamps, aligned just right so the angles matched, neither overlapping nor too far apart, on 86 envelopes.

The clerk did the first one, applying the stamps perfectly with the speed and precision of a surgeon. (Good news for the Adams family, first alphabetically.) The rest were on me.

A half-hour later, she came by to check my work. “Oh wow, you’re doing so good!” she said in a tone that had not reached my ears since fourth-grade art class.

When at last the invitations were signed, sealed and ready to be delivered, my mentor gave me one last boost of positive reinforcement. “Your fiancée will be so pleased! The color of the leaves perfectly complements the sub-

tle orange of the butterfly’s spots!” Just as I intended.

Her colleague, having wandered over to see what all the fuss was about, was a bit less veiled in her assessment. “You were really going to start your wedding off on a school bus?! Men...” she muttered, shaking her head as she walked away.

Driving home, I called my grandma to recount my epic postal odyssey. The mention of school bus stamps elicited an audible gasp, followed by a long sigh of relief once I explained that I had instead opted for flowers and leaves. I felt like I’d dodged a bullet. “Thank goodness!” she said. “It’s too hot for so much excitement.”

“Not to worry, Grandma,” I assured her. “The wedding is saved.”

Nicole and I got married in September 2025 in a beautiful garden in D.C., accompanied by Grandma, a few butterflies, and many autumnal leaves and flowers. My new bride and I look forward to plenty of school buses in our future, maybe five or six years from now—not on stamps, but in real life. Right here in Arlington. ■

David Rifkin is an eight-year Arlingtonian who has worked in international affairs and strategy consulting. His wife, Nicole, is an attorney who focuses on international law and arbitration.

familiar

Saperstein

Vintage Vault

This Falls Church boutique is a wonderland for collectors of retro clothing and vinyl.

WITH ITS PINK velvet damask sofa, mid-century record-player console and metal floor lamp shaped like a palm tree, Coco Cameo looks as if it’s been zapped in from the swinging ’60s.

That’s the idea, says owner Jessica Stanis, who opened the vintage fashion and vinyl boutique last December, hoping to sell retro duds while fostering an old-fashioned sense of community.

“I’d been collecting records and vintage clothing for a few years,” says the shopkeeper, who lives in the Hillwood neighborhood of Falls Church with her husband and their 4- and 7-year-old daughters. “I filled up a storage unit with vintage. Many of the clothes weren’t even in my size. It seemed like I needed to open a store.”

On the day of my visit, she’s wearing a circa-2000s Robert Cavalli dress in an earthy print, as a 1990s LP by Japanese jazz pianist Ryo Fukui moodily wafts from the stereo.

Stanis has retail in her blood: Her parents, George and Rita, ran Stanis Furniture stores in Merrifield and Chantilly from 1974 through 2007. She remembers serving cider at the family showrooms over the holidays and doing face-painting for kids during special events. “I grew up seeing a great example of entrepreneurship,” she says.

And yet, she initially didn’t envision herself as a business owner. She spent 16 years in management at Carine’s Bridal Atelier in Georgetown before deciding to strike out on her own.

“I’d been moving toward buying all of my clothes used, as a tiny thing I could do for the environment,” Stanis explains. “I noticed that every time I wore my thrifted pieces, I got a lot of compliments. It was fun!”

Coco Cameo manifests that joy. Tucked inside a low-slung 1964 office plex on West Broad Street (also home to TINT Makerspace and The Neighborhood Barbershop), it’s a place where old meets new. The moniker is a reference to a happy childhood memory—a family vacation in a Vermont hotel where staffers left cameo-shaped chocolates on the pillows. It’s also the name of the fictional “it girl,” a redhead with a passion for fashion, who stars in the boutique’s retro logo.

To create a hip and playful interior that matches the merch, Stanis tapped Silver Spring, Maryland, designer Shannon Claire. “I wanted a mood that would get people off their sofas and into my shop,” she says.

The designer’s cheeky response includes orange and pink striped wallpaper, leopard print chairs, fuchsia curtains and wood paneling. A throwback tiki bar serves as a checkout counter while mid-century furnishings—a brass bar cart, a pink circular shelf—display shoes and

Coco Cameo proprietor Jessica Stanis at her Falls Church boutique

■ familiar faces

accessories. Claire describes it as a “vintage bubble that feels like a 1960s Palm Springs living room.”

For collectors, the boutique is a veritable time warp, stocking a curated mix of men’s and women’s clothing, shoes and bags from a range of eras. I spy a diaphanous peach 1930s evening gown, a circa-1970s men’s T-shirt airbrushed with a Trans Am, and a pair of blackand-white Manolo Blahnik lace-up heels from the early aughts that scream “Sex and the City.”

A smattering of small vintage housewares—“Mad Men”-esque cocktail shakers, hobnail white pottery, ceramic ashtrays—are provided by Nicole Nasiatka of Glass Fox Vintage. Stanis and Nasiatka have been friends since they were 16.

Stocking the store is a labor of love

“I’d been moving toward buying all of my clothes used, as a tiny thing I could do for the environment.”

and a constant adventure. “I source things everywhere,” Stanis says. “If there’s a yard sale by the side of the road or a flea market, I pull the car over. I’ll go to big vintage clothing fairs. When I travel, I try to find great thrift stores or vintage places in other cities.”

On a recent trip to Miami, her fab

finds included a fringed boho suede jacket and a slew of 1990s miniskirts.

Toward the back of the store, a wall of bookcases displays dozens of LPs for sale, from the The Smiths’ iconic 1986 album “The Queen is Dead” to Chappell Roan’s 2025 single “The Giver.” The audiophile nook is especially popular during monthly meetings of the Little City Vinyl Club, the Falls Church record lovers’ group Stanis founded in 2020.

“I love thinking about the past lives of these records and these clothes,” she says. “I hope the store makes people feel connected to the past, too.” ■

Washington, D.C. home and travel writer Jennifer Barger writes the Substack newsletter The Souvenirist about the intersection of retail and travel.

Guiding clients through complex financial decisions.

We are a dedicated team of financial professionals committed to guiding you through life’s significant financial decisions. With a client-centric approach and decades of experience, we provide personalized solutions that align with your unique goals, ensuring your financial journey is both successful and fulfilling.

At D’Orazio Wealth Advisors, we evaluate each of your financial decisions through three areas of expertise for every client of every size, every year…at no additional cost. We offer a flat fee structure, making all our services accessible to every client, much like a multi-family office.

Trends Reshaping Senior Living Today

Wellness, reimagined. The age-old advice to move your body and eat well still holds, but today’s wellness goes further. Think recovery, longevity and rituals that restore as much as they energize, from salt rooms to hydrotherapy.

2 Programming, made personal. Bingo is fun. Sometimes. But programming built around your own interests is better. Expect expert guest speakers, cultural outings, and experiences that feel carefully curated for you—because they are.

Care that meets you where you are. Support is no longer all-or-nothing. More residents and their families find themselves in the in-between; seeking thoughtful guidance without full clinical

care, while still having access to assisted living and memory care as needs evolve. New models, like Aura, an exclusive early memory support program, are designed to meet that moment with nuance.

Dining as an experience. Residents deserve more than a single dining room with a set menu. Multiple venues, seasonal menus, and restaurant-style execution turn everyday meals into genuine occasions and something to look forward to.

Service that anticipates. The best service is felt, not seen. Proactive, concierge-level attention creates a sense of ease, shaping a daily rhythm that simply works.

INSPĪR EMBASSY ROW

Amanda Glendinning, General Manager

Inspīr Embassy Row blends timeless design with modern luxury in one of D.C’s most distinguished neighborhoods. General Manager Amanda Glendinning brings a hospitality-driven, personalized philosophy.

2100 Massachusetts Ave. NW Washington, D.C. 20008 202-293-2100 www.inspirseniorliving.com

Advantages of Vertical Integration in Luxury Homebuilding

It unifies every phase of homebuilding into one seamless operation. At Classic Cottages, we house architecture, interior design and construction under a single roof, ensuring a cohesive vision from land acquisition through the final warranty period, with total oversight and professional continuity.

Clear, seamless communication through one trusted point of contact. We handle the logistical complexity of the build so you can focus on personalizing your new home. It’s a single-source journey with a clear, predictable path from the initial concept to move-in day.

Fiscal and logistical clarity. Our construction team is involved during the architectural phase, so every design choice is grounded in reality before we

even break ground—minimizing mid-project adjustments, protecting the budget and keeping construction on pace.

Elevated quality and craftsmanship. When designers and builders share the same team, every detail is executed with a deep understanding of the original intent, delivering high-functioning features—like intuitive floor plans and refined finishes—that meet our “Built for Always” standard.

5 Streamlined problem resolution. When challenges arise, our teams immediately collaborate on solutions that honor the home’s design and architectural integrity—addressing hurdles swiftly and decisively to keep the project on track and the experience stress-free.

CLASSIC COTTAGES, LLC

Janet Million, Sales Director

Classic Cottages is Northern Virginia’s premier integrated homebuilder. For 15+ years, we have guided clients through a unified, seamless process to create timeless homes for modern living.

433 E. Monroe Ave. Alexandria, VA 22301 classiccottages.com

Creative, Responsible Ways Your Kids Can Use AI for Homework

Attempt it first. Students who try the work independently at first and then check it with AI, retain more and learn faster. Using AI from the start is like peeking at the answer key before even trying to solve the problem. It feels efficient … it isn’t.

The answer is only as good as the question. Specificity and context matter. Encourage your child to ask questions like “explain photosynthesis at a 7th-grade level with three examples” rather than something general like “explain photosynthesis.” Better questions produce better answers—and better thinkers.

Use it as a study partner, not a shortcut. AI can do more than just provide answers—it can generate practice

questions, build study guides and help break large assignments into manageable steps. Using it as a study partner supports deeper learning and helps build organization and time-management skills.

Verify before trusting. AI can be impressively wrong. It’s important to teach your child to verify what they’ve read by cross-checking key facts, dates and sources.

AI doesn’t keep secrets. These tools are not private spaces. Remind your child to only use platforms vetted by their school or teacher—and to never enter personal, sensitive or school-related information. If you wouldn’t post it publicly, don’t type it into AI.

ST. STEPHEN’S AND ST. AGNES SCHOOL

Colleen McNeil, Chief Technology Officer

With an M.S. in Educational Technology from George Mason University and decades of experience helping schools thoughtfully integrate technology, Colleen McNeil understands how using the right tools can transform learning.

703-212-2700 www.sssas.org

Reasons to Choose a Design-Build Firm for Home Remodeling

One team, no excuses. When designers, builders, and project managers work together under one roof, every decision is collaborative. One team, fully accountable, start to finish.

Surprises are for birthdays… not budgets. Because your construction team is involved during the design phase, you get real numbers, not optimistic estimates that unexpectedly balloon once the walls come down. Smarter decisions early mean avoiding costly redesigns and fewer difficult conversations later.

Less waiting, more building. Design-build streamlines the remodeling process by combining design and construction into a single, systematic workflow. One shared timeline across

the firm keeps projects moving forward without the delays of coordinating among separate firms.

4 Built-in flexibility. When designers and builders work together every single day, the unexpected doesn’t have to become a crisis. Structural surprise? Mid-project pivot? No problem. The integrated team adjusts quickly, no drama.

5 As close to turnkey as remodeling gets. One firm handles everything: design, permits, scheduling, material selections and construction management. The best teams even plan for the unglamorous stuff: where the dumpster and porta-potty go, how the crew accesses the home and where materials will be delivered and stored on site.

TRIVISTAUSA DESIGN + BUILD

Arlington Magazine’s Best Remodeler and PRO Remodeler of the Year in 2026, TriVistaUSA Design + Build is a family-owned boutique firm founded in 2005 by Arlingtonians Michael and Deborah Sauri.

3103 N. 10th Street Arlington, VA 22201 703-243-3171 info@trivistausa.com www.trivistausa.com

Qualities to Look For in a Family Law/Divorce Attorney

Responsiveness. How quickly do they respond to your calls and emails? Are they available when you need them most? In urgent situations, are they easy to reach? The right attorney makes you feel like a priority, not an afterthought.

Clear and frequent communication. Do they explain your options clearly without unnecessary legalese? Do they proactively keep you informed at every stage—or do you find yourself chasing them for updates?

Honest, strategic counsel. Do they tell you what you need to hear, not just what you want to hear? The best attorneys set realistic expectations from

the start and tailor their strategy to your specific situation and goals.

Experience and familiarity with the local courts Do they know when to pursue resolution and when to fight? The most successful attorneys are as comfortable at the negotiating table as they are in the courtroom—and instinctively know which approach serves you best.

5 Exclusive focus on family law. Does their practice focus solely on family and divorce law? Specialization matters. An attorney who lives and breathes family law brings deeper expertise, sharper instincts and a genuine understanding of the emotional weight you’re carrying.

MULLETT DOVE & BRADLEY FAMILY LAW, PLLC

Mullet Dove & Bradley is a boutique family law firm delivering specialized expertise to Northern Virginia and D.C., helping clients achieve the best possible outcomes through individualized, results-driven representation.

Three Ballston Plaza 1100 N. Glebe Road, Suite 1100 Arlington, VA 22201 703-522-8100 www.mdmblaw.com

5 CFA Ways to Build Stronger Family Connections

Observe the Observable. Focus on what you actually see and hear, not what you assume or fear. Awareness is half the battle: noticing patterns in behavior—when they happen, what precedes them, how family members respond—is the first step toward making real change.

2 Connection Before Correction. Children and teenagers respond far better when they feel genuinely understood, rather than managed, rushed or lectured. Before addressing a behavior, acknowledge the feeling behind it. That moment of connection doesn’t excuse the behavior; it simply opens the door for a more meaningful conversation.

3 Keep Communication Clear and Direct. Families function better when expectations, boundaries and support are

communicated calmly and consistently. Unclear or inconsistent messaging—even if well-intentioned—can create anxiety and confusion. Simple, honest communication repeated over time builds safety and trust.

4 Do the Next Right Thing. Lasting progress rarely comes from dramatic one-time interventions, but from small, daily actions that show you’re making an effort—like setting or holding a boundary, starting a conversation, or choosing patience over a reaction. These “small wins” compound quietly over time.

5 Ask for Help Early. Seeking guidance is not weakness—it is often the first step toward meaningful change. The earlier concerns are addressed, the more options are available and the easier the path forward tends to be.

CHILD & FAMILY ASSOCIATES OF GREATER WASHINGTON LLC

Steven M. Harner, Psy.D.

Child & Family Associates helps children, teens, adults and families navigate life’s challenges through thoughtfully tailored psychotherapy, psychological assessment and strengths-based practical strategies.

6063, 6051F and 6057B Arlington Blvd. Falls Church, VA 22044 703-533-3930 www.cfa-gw.com

Reasons Why Human Leaders Are The Future

Presence and adaptability. The capacity to “read the room”—perceive others, recognize their emotions, assess non-verbal cues and hidden dynamics—and successfully adapt behavior or strategy in real-time, is innately human. As AI masters highly complex data analysis, leaders must excel at the essential human traits necessary to welcome AI into the workforce.

Authentic connection and belonging. The need for human connection, a sense of belonging and relatedness, is essential for motivation. Human leaders can provide genuine interest, active listening and mutual respect that no algorithm can replicate.

Emotional intelligence. Emotionally intelligent leaders can understand, connect with and motivate team members on a personal level. Through empathy, trust and genuine connection, they foster effective teams and a supportive organizational culture.

Moral judgment and integrity. Human leaders make complex ethical decisions that are rooted in values, lived experience and social responsibilities— capabilities that remain beyond AI’s reach.

Creativity and innovation. AI can mimic, by using existing data, to generate novel, complex or aesthetically pleasing outputs. Humans can imagine things that do not yet exist, challenging the status quo and driving innovation and change.

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING LAB, APPANAGE LLC

Claudia E. Tordini, MBA, MPhil | Principal

Claudia holds a Wharton MBA and is a University of Pennsylvania certified executive coach. She partners with businesses and leaders to help them strengthen their leadership and build high performing teams. Arlington, VA 703-243-2579 www.experiential-learning-lab.com claudia.tordini@appanagegroup.com

Things to Know Before Starting Aesthetic Treatments

Start with your goals, not trends. The best aesthetic treatments begin with your individual goals, not what’s trending online. A thoughtful consultation should focus on your facial anatomy, lifestyle and long-term vision to create results that feel balanced, natural and authentic to you.

2 Natural results come from a longterm plan. Great aesthetic outcomes are rarely achieved in a single appointment. A personalized treatment plan that evolves over time often creates the most refined, subtle and lasting results while helping patients avoid looking overdone or overtreated.

Not every treatment is right for every face. Aesthetic medicine should never be one-size-fits-all. The right provider customizes treatments based

on facial structure, skin quality, age and personal goals rather than recommending the same approach for every patient.

4 Healthy skin matters as much as injectables. Beautiful results start with healthy skin. Medical-grade skincare, lasers, facials and collagen-stimulating procedures can improve skin quality and often enhance or extend the results of injectable treatments for a more natural overall appearance.

5 Experience and anatomy expertise matter. Choosing an experienced provider is one of the most important decisions a patient can make. A deep understanding of facial anatomy, safety and advanced injection techniques helps create results that are both beautiful and clinically responsible.

NM AESTHETICS | WELLNESS

Megan Francis, NP, Founder

Megan Francis, NP, MSN, AGPCNP-BC, is founder of NM Aesthetics, specializing in personalized aesthetic treatments focused on naturallooking results, skin health and patient education.

4201 Wilson Blvd., Suite 250 Arlington, VA 22203 703-963-8542 megan@nmaesthetics.com www.nmaesthetics.com

5 Reasons to Filter Your Family’s Drinking Water with Sanavia

What does clean, good-tasting water cost your family annually? Does your tap water have a chemical taste? How much do you spend on bottled water or trying to keep up with pitcher filters that don’t really work? Replacing a Sanavia filter costs an average of $125 a year—34 cents a day.

2 Does “safe to drink” mean healthy?

A 2025 JAMA study linked living near golf courses with a 198% higher risk of Parkinson’s disease. A 2024 NIH-funded study found bottled water contains nanoplastics that enter cells throughout the body, including the lungs, brain and blood. Federal limits don’t test for many of these compounds.

Have you had your water tested for free? Before buying anything, Sanavia tests your tap water at no cost and walks you through the results. If your water is clean, we’ll tell you—that’s what makes us different.

4 Is your current system wasting water? Most reverse osmosis systems waste three to four gallons for every one purified. Sanavia’s 2:1 ratio saves thousands of gallons per year and lowers your water bill without sacrificing performance.

5 Does your filter have independent certifications? Sanavia is certified seven times by NSF—the gold standard in third-party water testing—verifying removal of PFAS heavy metals, chemicals and microplastics.

SANAVIA WATER

Zach Senkus

Zach Senkus is a co-CEO of Sanavia Water. He studied business and supply chain management at the University of Tennessee and is a native Arlingtonian.

571-397-4798 support@sanaviawater.com Sanaviawater.com @sanaviawater

Questions to Ask Before Painting Kitchen Cabinets

What affordable renovation has the most impact? Refinishing kitchen cabinetry offers a striking transformation without the scale of a full renovation. A meticulously prepared, furniture-grade finish can completely elevate the look and feel of the space.

2 What do I need before getting started? Very little. A thoughtful consultation defines the vision, assesses the space and provides tailored recommendations, followed by a clearly outlined scope and timeline.

What if I don’t know what colors I want? That’s often the case. Professional color guidance helps refine selections that complement the home’s

natural light, architecture and overall aesthetic, resulting in a cohesive, timeless palette.

What can I expect when the crew arrives? An environment managed with precision and care. Surfaces are protected, components are removed and cataloged, and doors are refinished off-site to achieve a smooth, durable finish. Projects are led by an on-site supervisor and completed by dedicated employees.

5 How long does it take, and is the kitchen usable? Most projects are completed within a week. While doors are refinished off-site, portions of the kitchen typically remain accessible, minimizing disruption while maintaining progress.

TECH PAINTING COMPANY

Jim Nicolson, VP, Residential Services

Tech Painting Co. delivers residential painting, cabinet refinishing, wallcovering services and carpentry services. Known for craftsmanship and discretion, the firm has served homeowners throughout the DMV area since 1987.

5150 Eisenhower Ave. Alexandria, VA 22304

703-684-7702

Office@techpainting.com www.techpainting.com

on GLP-1s say the drugs allow them to tune out the

that once dominated their thoughts.

People

"food noise"

Weighty ISSUES

GLP-1 drugs are reshaping society. Is it cheating? Are they safe?

BY ADRIENNE WICHARD-EDDS | ILLUSTRATIONS BY JESS LEMON

When Karen Vasquez turned 50 in December of 2021, she wanted to throw herself a party. The covid vaccine was widely available and people were starting to gather again. But one worry kept giving her pause: She’d put on weight during the pandemic and was self-conscious about being in photos. In fact, she always had been. “I realized that every significant milestone in my life had always been clouded by the subtext of do I look fat?” says the Arlington resident and marketing consultant.

Tired of hiding from mirrors and cameras, Vasquez joined a fitness studio, took up Pilates, cut out alcohol and drastically reduced her caloric intake. A month later, she stepped on the scale and was crestfallen. “I’d worked so hard, and I lost three pounds. Three—out of a goal of 60,” she recalls. “I was heavier than I’d ever been.”

She decided to ask her doctor about GLP-1s. “My insurance wouldn’t cover a prescription, so I bit the bullet and paid out of pocket,” she says. “It was life changing.”

■ weighty issues

Almost immediately, the “food noise” in her head quieted and she was able to cut calories with less effort. Her desire to drink subsided. She began sleeping better and feeling more energetic. As the pounds melted away, her joints were less stressed, making it easier to be active. Losing weight was no longer a Sisyphean struggle; it was a new way of living that felt tenable. Within 18 months, she’d hit her goal weight.

Slimming down wasn’t the only upside. Vasquez believes that by being more active, she may have sidestepped some of the health problems that accompany excess weight in middle age. Studies suggest GLP-1s may lower risks associated with heart disease, sleep apnea, Type-2 diabetes and other chronic conditions.

But the biggest relief for Vasquez was a quieter mind. “I used to start each morning thinking about exactly what I was going to eat and when I was going to work out,” she says. “I ended every day berating myself for every little thing I could have done differently. When I restricted calories, the food noise would get louder and I’d feel deprived. That led to a boomerang effect on my eating that would take up even more space in my brain.”

The conversation was like a scrolling tickertape in her head. “Engaging the conscious part of my brain to tell myself no required constant vigilance,” she says. “And when you’re tired or feeling sad—or you’ve had a day, or you’re stressed, or your hormones are out of whack? The food noise wins.”

With GLP-1s, it stopped.

MEDICATIONS CONTAINING glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists—known as GLP-1s—have been available for two decades. Exenatide was the first GLP-1, prescribed under the brand name Byetta, in 2005, to treat Type-2 diabetes. Now the handful of FDAapproved formulations on the market includes semaglutides (sold under the

brand names Ozempic and Wegovy) and the slightly newer tirzepatides (Mounjaro, Zepbound) which, in addition to a GLP-1, contain a glucosedependent insulinotropic peptide hormone, or GIP, to support weight loss.

GLP-1s work by mimicking naturally occurring hormones that slow digestion, increase satiety, reduce blood sugar and decrease insulin resistance (and therefore inflammation). Evidence of their meteoric rise is everywhere— in friends, family members, neighbors and co-workers who are literally shrinking before our eyes.

“I’ve been prescribing these drugs for seven years,” says Arshad Ali, director of obesity medicine at VHC Health’s bariatric and metabolic health center. “All of a sudden, it went from me trying to convince patients that [a GLP-1] would be beneficial for them to patients coming in asking for this treatment.”

In 2022, 40% of American adults met the definition of obese, with a body mass index of 30 or higher, according to Gallup research. By 2025, that number had fallen to 37%.

One in five American adults has tried a GLP-1 drug, according to a November 2025 Kaiser Family Foundation health tracking poll. GLP-1s are reshaping not just our bodies, but how many of us eat, spend, play and socialize.

"When I restricted calories, the food noise would get louder and I’d feel deprived. That led to a boomerang effect on my eating.”

One in five American adults has tried a GLP-1 drug such as Ozempic or Wegovy.

“It’s not just a weight loss medication,” says Meetal Mehta, a bariatric medicine specialist at Inova Health. “It’s a tool [for healthier living]. Other conditions can be improved, too. Lower blood pressure and cholesterol, less pressure on joints, even reduced risk of heart attack.”

ADD TO THAT LIST addictive tendencies. Many patients report that their desire for alcohol and other substances diminishes or disappears on GLP-1s.

That’s what happened to Michael Barrett when he started taking a semaglutide for weight loss. It allowed him to finally quit smoking.

“For years, I’d tried to quit. Gum, patches, vaping, the step-down method, being hypnotized—nothing worked,” says Barrett, 46, a senior stylist at Arlington’s Smitten salon. “Now, I don’t even want one cigarette.”

Currently on a tirzepatide, he’s shed 50 pounds from his 6-foot-2 frame.

His sweet tooth went away, too. “Before, I was constantly thinking about what I could find that was sweet within arm’s reach. If there was a tray of cookies in the back of the salon, I’d have one in each hand and another in my mouth,” he laughs.

Once he decided to get serious about losing weight, however, willpower wasn’t the problem. “For five months [before I started GLP-1s] I’d been consistently hitting the gym, food journaling, meeting my calorie goals, and the needle wasn’t moving,” he says.

Barrett speaks candidly about his experience and isn’t embarrassed to tell people he’s taking GLP-1s. He wants to

dispel the notion that people who use them are too lazy to exercise, that they lack self-control, that taking the drug is somehow a form of “cheating.”

He’s exasperated by folks who hide their GLP-1 use, attributing their weight loss to clean eating and portion control alone. He says it perpetuates a false narrative. But at the same time, he gets it.

“It’s almost like the new fat-shaming,” he says. “First, society judged people for being heavy. Now we have to worry about shaming people who are taking a GLP-1?”

For Nicole, who asked not to use her real name, the stigma felt overwhelming. “Three years ago, I went on Ozempic and lost 30 or 40 pounds over a period of nine months,” says the Arlington resident, now 58. “But then I freaked out about safety concerns and buckled to pressure from people who were judging me for not trying harder to lose the weight on my own—as if there’s some virtuousness of doing it without medication. So I went off of it. And guess what? I gained all the weight back.”

Nicole returned to GLP-1s, this time Zepbound, and slowly lost the weight she’d put back on. She still gets nega-

tive feedback from a sister who thinks she should be able to manage her health without medication.

“She’s been very judgy,” Nicole says. “She’s trying to lose weight and has been doing it with [an app that helps her track her diet]. I feel like she thinks I’m cheating—like I’m not doing it the right way.”

LOSING WEIGHT IS seldom as simple as just eating less, says Seba Ramhmdani, an internist with Privia Health in Falls Church. “Being overweight is a multifactorial disease. It’s not just from overeating. It’s hormonal. It’s ingrained in the way you were raised to look at food, whether as a way to manage stress or [with the expectation to] to finish what’s on your plate.”

As one Zepbound user put it, “Telling someone not to eat the food they’re craving is like telling a person who has depression not to be depressed.”

Even the most vigilant dieters won’t accurately track the calories they consume in a day, says Ali of VHC Health. He points to a study conducted on dieticians who self-monitored their eating habits for a week: “On aver-

age, they underestimated their caloric intake by about 30%.”

Genetics, epigenetics and age are factors as well. “If I’d been doing all the same things 10 years ago, I would have lost 15 to 20 pounds [without medication],” Barrett says of the diet and exercise regimen that somehow failed him once he entered his 40s.

For Vasquez, perimenopause made the weight harder to shed. That realization assuaged some of the guilt she’d be feeling. “Maybe it wasn’t all my fault,” she says. “Maybe I wasn’t just a lazy overeater.”

Metabolically, we have built-in survival mechanisms that kick in when we cut back. “Our bodies were designed to gain weight, not to lose it,” explains Rohit Suri, an obesity medicine specialist at Nova Physician Wellness Center. “Evolutionarily, we were designed to eat as much and as fast as we can, because there was no way to preserve food.”

Extra calories are stored as fat, “but as soon as you start losing weight, your body starts thinking something’s wrong,” Suri explains, “which, hormonally, makes it harder to lose weight.” The body responds by increasing appetite

Karen Vasquez with her family

Michael Barrett

■ weighty issues

and slowing metabolism, and the hormones that regulate feelings of hunger kick into high gear, “to drive your body weight back to the set-point range.”

GLP-1s and GIPs help override those hunger signals while improving the insulin receptivity that allows your body to burn fat. But it takes time to achieve a new normal. “Research and my clinical experience has shown that you need to be at your goal weight for about two to three years for your body to recalibrate its set point,” Suri says.

GLP-1s also rewire the brain’s pleasure response to certain foods, says Sarah McCarthy, a dual-certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with the McLean Counseling Center. “GLP-1s work on the hypothalamus to reduce the dopamine reward you get from eating certain foods. So the sugary, fatty foods patients once craved no longer produce as strong of a dopamine hit, which

encourages them to find healthier coping mechanisms.”

And yet the prescription is only one piece of the puzzle. Nicole goes to a comprehensive weight loss clinic, where she’s working with coaches to establish sustainable eating and exercise habits. Barrett, the Arlington stylist, is working with a nutritionist.

“When you start the medication, you really need to focus on protein and fiber intake, and doing weight training,” says Ramhmdani of Privia Health. “When you do, your metabolism is likely to pick up. You can’t skip meals.”

Strength training is especially critical for women, who are more likely to lose bone mass.

“GLP-1s aren’t the magic answer,” McCarthy stresses. “They’re a supportive resource that allows people to notice the benefits of their efforts earlier and helps reinforce motivation for healthy habits.”

"MIRACLE DRUG" is an oft-used term, with new studies suggesting GLP-1s may even slow the progression of cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. But the cost can be prohibitive. Most insurance companies provide only partial coverage, if they cover the drugs at all.

“The biggest limitation is access, particularly through insurance, even if patients fit the criteria through FDA guidelines,” says Mehta of Inova Health.

Employers burdened by rising costs may be reluctant to shoulder higher premiums. Philadelphia’s nonprofit Jefferson Health system, which employs 65,000 healthcare workers, is a telling case study. Prescription drugs made up 14% of the company’s insurance costs a decade ago, but by 2025, they accounted for 40%, according to an NBC News story. Semaglutides and tirzepatides were significant drivers.

Last year, the net price for a 30-day supply of GLP-1s ranged from $617

to $766, according to a study by the Employee Benefits Research Institute for Blue Cross Blue Shield, and the number of people taking them is very likely to increase. The report states that more than 40% of privately insured adults—more than 57 million people— are clinically eligible for GLP-1 drugs. That includes individuals diagnosed with diabetes, obesity or being overweight with additional risk factors.

While the financial burden is significant, companies that offer GLP-1 drug benefits have reported greater overall employee satisfaction, which can contribute to greater productivity, according to a recent Petersen-KFF Health System Tracker report. Employers could see financial paybacks down the road if their newly fit employees avoid costly medical issues stemming from being overweight.

Many GLP-1 users say the money they spend on medication is offset by

More than 57 million Americans are clinically eligible for GLP-1 drugs, according to a recent study.

savings on food, alcohol and insurance co-pays for more serious health problems. But the initial price tag can be daunting, prompting some patients to turn to online pharmacies that offer compounded versions of the drugs at a fraction of the price. These formulations are called “compounded” because they purportedly contain the same chemical compounds as the FDA-approved medications, but with an additional ingredient—often a vita-

min—that allows the seller to tweak the recipe just enough that it can be sold under a different label.

Barrett initially ordered GLP-1s through a compounding pharmacy, but later switched to an on-label medication (Zepbound) and reported fewer side effects and more consistent success. Vasquez started out on Ozempic and later shifted to a compounded version.

Direct-to-consumer discounts offered by pharmaceutical companies have made brand-name drugs more affordable for patients who are paying out of pocket. In July, the federal government will roll out a Medicare pilot program covering GLP-1s for $50 per month. And for those who fear needles, the drugs, which have traditionally been administered as injections, are becoming available in pill form.

Medical professionals unilaterally caution against using any medication that is not FDA-approved. “I

do not prescribe [compounded medications],” says Inova Health’s Mehta. “The compounding pharmacies aren’t making the medications in the exact same way, which makes them hard to study. Some people have success and some say they don’t work.” If you’re taking meds that are FDA-approved, she says, you know exactly what you’re putting in your body.

Ali of VHC Health is similarly wary of compound formulations. “If you have a bad reaction, is it because of the medicine, or is it because they’ve tweaked the formula—like adding high doses of vitamins? If it doesn’t work, I don’t know if it’s because of the composition or because you’re not responding to the active ingredients.”

Easy access to off-brand GLP-1s sold on the internet has also raised alarm bells among doctors and psychologists who treat people with restrictive eating disorders such as anorexia.

NOT

EVERYONE LOSES weight on GLP-1s. Mehta cites two recent clinical trials that found 15% and 17.8% of participants taking FDA-approved GLP-1s were unable to lose at least 5% of their body weight. Side effects such as nausea and gastrointestinal distress make the drugs unbearable for a subset of patients. Some have reported reduced libido, hair loss or general feelings of malaise.

GLP-1 usage carries a risk of pancreatitis, as well as kidney, gallbladder and stomach issues, and therefore should be administered under a physician’s care. Research has raised suspicions that the drugs may also be linked to a rare vision issue called non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), an “eye stroke” caused by a sudden lack of blood flow to the optic nerve.

But proponents would argue there’s risk in not embracing GLP-1s—particularly when the inability to lose weight

increases a person’s chances of developing heart disease, Type-2 diabetes and other killers.

“Most of my life I was an average weight, and then covid hit,” says Arlington resident Chris Collins. “I was in menopause. I lost energy and started [over]eating when the lockdown happened. I tried Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig—all things that worked temporarily, but I always gained the weight back.”

Collins, who is 5-foot-6, had been contemplating GLP-1s for almost two years when she finally ordered through a compounding pharmacy in 2024. She’d talked to her doctor about getting a prescription, but the cost of buying it through her insurance was prohibitive. After battling some initial nausea and switching from a semaglutide to a tirzepatide, she lost 100 pounds in the span of a year.

With her shrinking waistline came some unexpected surprises. Her blood pressure, once dangerously high, has

■ weighty issues

“gotten under control to the point that I’ve been able to stop taking two blood pressure medications,” she says. Her interpersonal interactions have changed, too. “People treat you differently when you’re thin,” says Collins, 56, an office manager at an architecture firm in Old Town, Alexandria. “They’re nicer, they’re more interested, they want to talk to you. It’s in the tone of their voice and the look on their faces. I wonder if they even know they’re doing it.”

Collins says she’s stopped avoiding social events for fear of being judged— or worse, feeling invisible. “There would be times at a party where people wouldn’t even make eye contact. People used to look past me, like I wasn’t there,” she says. “It’s different now.”

GIVEN THE GROWING list of purported health benefits, should everyone be on GLP-1 meds?

No, says Nova Physician Wellness

Center’s Suri. “The guidelines are very clear. These drugs have only been studied on people with a BMI of 30, or of 27 with a comorbidity.” (Comorbidity meaning complicating health risks like hypertension or high cholesterol.)

Patients who don’t meet the standard criteria may still be candidates, he says, but those determinations are case by case. “We look at the patient on the whole, not just their BMI. If you just want to lose 10 to 15 pounds, we start with diet and lifestyle and behavior modifications. If you’re insulin-resistant or prediabetic, you might benefit from a GLP-1, but that’s a clinical judgment for the prescriber.”

GLP-1 drugs were never intended as a first line of defense, says Ali at VHC Health. “Usually, by the time patients are referred to us, they’ve already struggled with weight loss for a long time.” Medication becomes an option when lifestyle modifications have not worked.

He says the majority of people taking GLP-1s are in it for the long term. “There’s no clinical data to support going off of it. No matter how long you’re on it, when you stop it, we see weight gain.”

Maria Jordan

MARIA JORDAN HAS no plans to ever stop taking GLP-1s.

“I wasn’t always overweight,” says the 51-year-old Arlington resident. “I used to be a size six. Then I had my child. I felt stuck and I just sort of spiraled. I’d get depressed about my weight, then eat or drink to self-medicate.”

A medical appointment in 2023 revealed that she was prediabetic. Her doctor prescribed Ozempic, which was covered by her insurance. “When I look back now, I didn’t realize I was that big,” she says.

As the weight came off, Jordan started playing pickleball and doing Pilates. “Instead of eating a sleeve of Girl Scout Cookies, I would eat just a few,” she says.

She stopped avoiding social events because she had nothing to wear. And she changed careers—pivoting from her at-home graphic design business to a more public-facing role as a mahjong instructor.

The victories feel bittersweet. “I think about all the things I missed out on with my kid, all the events I didn’t go to because I would have had to put on a f*cking tent,” she says.

After losing 60 pounds, Jordan elected to have surgery to remove excess skin. When her weight loss plateaued, she switched from Ozempic to Zepbound, which she now takes at the highest dose.

Today she is 90 pounds lighter, and her blood pressure and cholesterol have both improved.

“It’s taboo to talk about [GLP-1s], but I think that’s bullshit,” Jordan says. “You’re just using something to help you get better. I’m so excited that this is working, that this can help people live better lives. We don’t have to suffer in silence.” ■

Adrienne Wichard-Edds is a writer whose work has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Hollywood Reporter and Billboard. She lives in Arlington with her family. Arlington Magazine is all about how and where you live. Subscribe today at the low price of $15 for a year!

From left: Adam M. Pickett, Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic; Christina L. Malekiani, VHC Health Physicians - Primary Care Shirlington; Anita N. Wasan, Allergy and Asthma Center

TOP

Doctors

Our area’s most respected physicians, as nominated by their peers in the medical community

The doctors in this feature were selected by Professional Research Services (PRS), which conducted an online peerreview survey of area physicians in Arlington County, Fairfax County, the City of Falls Church and the City of Alexandria. The featured doctors, identified by their peers as outstanding in their fields, were screened and selected through the verification of licensing and a review of any infractions through applicable boards, agencies and rating services. For additional information, visit prscom.com. Arlington Magazine was not involved in the selection process.

ADDICTION MEDICINE

Christopher Sendi

Nova Health Recovery

Gebrehana Zebro

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

Dominion Hospital (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital

Joseph Tasosa

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

ADOLESCENT MEDICINE

Alison F. Pease

Pediatrics of Arlington

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital

Brooke R. Bokor

Inova Children’s Adolescent Medicine - Willow Oaks

ALLERGY & IMMUNOLOGY

Anita N. Wasan

Allergy and Asthma Center

VHC Health; Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

Courtney Jackson Blair

Privia Health - Allergy and Asthma Associates

VHC Health; Inova Loudoun Hospital, Landsdowne Campus; Reston Hospital Center

Karen Kaufman

Kaufman Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Meredith Heltzer

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner Inova Fairfax Hospital

Nithya Swamy

Allergy Partners

Sharon Seth

Allergy and Asthma Associates

Inova Health System; Reston Hospital Center

Supriya Jain

Inova Children’s Allergy and Immunology - Fairfax

ANESTHESIOLOGY

David Banks

Dominion Anesthesia Group - VHC Health

VHC Health (admit)

David D. Lee

Dominion Anesthesia Group - VHC Health

VHC Health (admit)

David Schrier

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health; Reston Hospital Center

Elena Deacu

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health; Reston Hospital Center

James Tsai

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health; Inova Fair Oaks Hospital

Josephine Tracy

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

Kaiser Permanente Falls Church Ambulatory Surgery Center (admit); VHC Health (admit)

Kristina Poller

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit)

Leslie Sims

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit)

Milly Rambhia

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health; Inova Fair Oaks Hospital

Trevor Myers

Dominion Anesthesia Group - VHC Health

VHC Health (admit)

Great health starts with great doctors

With over 1,800 doctors across more than 60 specialties in the Mid-Atlantic States, Kaiser Permanente makes it easy to get the care you need—including 24/7 virtual and in-person urgent care. Our doctors work together seamlessly to deliver the highest quality, coordinated care. That’s why they’re recognized year after year as Top Doctors by leading regional magazines.1 Research shows that Kaiser Permanente members in DC, Maryland, and Virginia live six years longer than the national average2—proof that better care leads to better outcomes.

1 T he physicians who practice at Kaiser Permanente are recognized as Top Doctors in Northern Virginia Magazine (2026), Baltimore magazine (2025), Washingtonian magazine (2025), Arlington Magazine (2025), and Bethesda magazine (2025).

2 Tori Finch, MS, M Cabell Jonas, PhD, Kevin Rubenstein, Eric Watson, BA, Sundeep Basra, MPH, Jose Martinez, BS, & Michael Horberg, MD, MAS, FACP (2021). Life Expectancy Trends Among Integrated Health Care System Enrollees, 2014–2017. The Permanente Journal, 25(4), 10–17. thepermanentejournal.org/doi/10.7812/TPP/20.286

kp.org/excellence/mas

BREAST SURGERY

Costanza Cocilovo

Inova Schar Cancer Institute

Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

David Weintritt

Virginia Cancer Specialists - Alexandria Old Town

Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Inova Mount Vernon Hospital (admit)

Elizabeth Feldman

Virginia Cancer Specialists - Reston

Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Inova Loudoun Hospital, Landsdowne Campus (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit); Reston Surgery Center

Faryal Afridi

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner VHC Health (admit)

Hernan Vargas

Virginia Cancer Specialists - Fair Oaks Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

Jenny Hong

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner VHC Health (admit)

Kimberly Suri

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Mami N. Martin

Inova Surgery - Willow Oaks

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

Mary L. Sebastian

VHC Health Physicians - Reinsch Pierce Family Center for Breast Health Arlington VHC Health (admit)

Stephanie Akbari

Virginia Cancer Specialists - Fairfax Comprehensive Breast Center

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

CARDIAC SURGERY

Eias E. Jweied

VHC Health Cardiac, Vascular & Thoracic Surgery - Arlington

Eric L. Sarin

Inova Cardiac Surgery Vascular Surgery and Vascular Lab

Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

John W. Rhee

VHC Health Physicians - Cardiac, Vascular & Thoracic Surgery Arlington VHC Health (admit)

Kathleen R. Petro

Inova Cardiac Surgery Vascular Surgery and Vascular Lab

Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Health System (admit)

Lucas R. Collazo

Inova Cardiac Surgery Vascular Surgery and Vascular Lab

Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Inova Health System (admit)

Ramesh Singh

Inova Cardiac Surgery Vascular Surgery and Vascular Lab

Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

CARDIOLOGY

Adam S. Fein

Virginia Heart - Fairfax Office - Heart Rhythm Center

VHC Health (admit); Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Inova Loudoun Hospital, Landsdowne Campus (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit); Stone Springs Hospital Center

Amey Kulkarni

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Antonio R. Parente

Virginia Heart - Arlington

VHC Health (admit); Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Inova Loudoun Hospital, Landsdowne Campus; Reston Hospital Center (admit); Stone Springs Hospital Center

Arehzo Jahangiri

Amelia Heart & Vascular Center

VHC Health; Inova Alexandria Hospital; Inova Fairfax Hospital

Azita Moalemi

Amelia Heart & Vascular Center

VHC Health (admit); Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

Benjamin Galper

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Chinedu (ChiChi) Madu

Virginia Heart - Alexandria

VHC Health; Inova Alexandria Hospital; Inova Fair Oaks Hospital; Inova Fairfax Hospital; Inova Loudoun Hospital, Landsdowne Campus; Reston Hospital Center; Stone Springs Hospital Center

Constantine Tziros

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital; Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Edward W. Howard

Virginia Heart - Arlington

VHC Health; Inova Alexandria Hospital; Inova Fair Oaks Hospital; Inova Fairfax Hospital; Inova Loudoun Hospital, Landsdowne Campus; Reston Hospital Center; Stone Springs Hospital Center

Hassan Tabandeh

VHC Health Physicians - Cardiology Arlington

VHC Health

Jeremy S. Bock

Virginia Heart - Arlington Office

VHC Health (admit); Prince William Hospital (admit)

Jonathan I. Segal

Virginia Heart - Alexandria

VHC Health; Inova Alexandria Hospital; Inova Fair Oaks Hospital; Inova Fairfax Hospital; Inova Loudoun Hospital, Landsdowne Campus; Reston Hospital Center; Stone Springs Hospital Center

Michael P. Notarianni

Virginia Heart - Arlington

Minh V. Ngo

Inova Cardiology - Mount Vernon

Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Inova Mount Vernon Hospital (admit)

Rachel L. Berger

Virginia Heart - Arlington

Rajeev Samtani

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

Raymond Vlacancich

Virginia Heart - Arlington

VHC Health; Inova Alexandria Hospital; Inova Fair Oaks Hospital; Inova Fairfax Hospital; Inova Loudoun Hospital, Landsdowne Campus; Reston Hospital Center; Stone Springs Hospital Center

Richard P. Perrin

VHC Health Physicians - Cardiology Arlington

VHC Health (admit)

Sudip Saha

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

Tania Chao

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Timothy P. Farrell

Virginia Heart - Arlington

Yaning Liu

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital; Reston Hospital Center

COLON & RECTAL SURGERY

Caroline Sanchez

Fairfax Colon & Rectal Surgery, PC

Inova Alexandria Hospital; Inova Fair Oaks Hospital; Inova Fairfax Hospital; Inova Loudoun Hospital, Landsdowne Campus (admit)

Craig Rezac

VHC Health Physicians - Colorectal Surgery Tysons

Your Heart. Your Sleep. The Doctors Arlington Trust.

For over 30 years, Virginia Heart has called this community home — and made your health our mission. With 10 locations and more than 60 board-certified physicians, we’re here for every heartbeat, every night’s sleep, so you can live better, longer.

Congratulations to those who earned the 2026 Arlington Magazine Top Doctor honor.

Rachel Berger, MD – Cardiology

Jeremy Bock, MD – Cardiology

Timothy Farrell, MD – Cardiology

Adam Fein, MD – Cardiology

Edward Howard, MD – Cardiology

Chinedu (ChiChi) Madu, MD – Cardiology

Michael Notarianni, MD – Cardiology

Antonio Parente, MD – Cardiology

Amit Patel, MD – Sleep Medicine

Jonathan Segal, MD – Cardiology

Tajender Vasu, MD – Sleep Medicine

Raymond Vlacancich, MD – Cardiology

Jonathan Segal, MD Tajender Vasu, MD Raymond Vlacancich, MD

Rachel Berger, MD Jeremy Bock, MD Timothy Farrell, MD Adam Fein, MD

Edward Howard, MD Michael Notarianni, MD Antonio Parente, MD Amit Patel, MD

Chinedu (ChiChi) Madu, MD

High-Performing

Inova Schar Heart and Vascular

Cardiovascular Care at Inova Fairfax Hospital

Irfan Rizvi

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

John Tillou

Fairfax Colorectal

Kimberly Matzie

Fairfax Colon & Rectal Surgery, PC

Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Inova Loudoun Hospital, Landsdowne Campus (admit)

Lawrence Stern

Fairfax Colon & Rectal Surgery, PC

Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital; Inova Fairfax Hospital; Inova Health System; Inova Loudoun Hospital, Landsdowne Campus (admit)

Mohammed Bayasi

Virginia Surgery Group

Inova Fair Oaks Hospital; Reston Hospital Center; Stone Springs Hospital Center

Paul E. Savoca

Virginia Surgery Associates, PC - Paul E. Savoca, MD, FACS, FASCRS

Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit); Reston Surgery Center (admit)

Rebekah Kim

Fairfax Colon & Rectal Surgery, PC

University of Virginia Medical Center (admit); Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Inova Loudoun Hospital, Landsdowne Campus (admit)

Rodolfo Pigalarga

VHC Health Physicians - Colorectal Surgery

Arlington VHC Health (admit)

CRITICAL CARE MEDICINE & PULMONARY DISEASE

Carren Yu Chi Wang

PMA Health

Christopher C. Wyckoff

Privia Health - PMA Health - Falls Church

VHC Health (admit)

Daniel Casey

Privia Health - PMA Health - VHC Health Office

VHC Health (admit)

David R. Duhamel

Privia Health - PMA Health - VHC Health Office

VHC Health (admit)

Eileen Hsu

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health

Jeff B. Hales

Privia Health - PMA Health - VHC Health Office

VHC Health

Mrunalini Chakurkar

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Nancy Maaty

Privia Health - PMA Health - VHC Health Office

VHC Health (admit)

Neil Shea

Privia Health - PMA Health - VHC Health Office

VHC Health (admit)

Robert Herscowitz

Pulmonary Associates, LTD

Inova Alexandria Hospital

William Richter

Privia Health - PMA Health - VHC Health - Sleep

Medicine, Pulmonology

VHC Health

DERMATOLOGY

Aaron E. Fuchs

Fuchs Dermatology

VHC Health

Al Damavandy

District Dermatology

VHC Health

Amanda Campbell

Virginia Square Dermatology

Annalise Abiodun

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

Brenda Dintiman

DermUtopia Wellness

Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit)

Brittany Heffner

Kaiser Permanente - Springfield Medical Center

VHC Health

Brittany Smirnov

Fuchs Dermatology

Courtney Herbert

FDL Dermatology

VHC Health (admit)

David Bray

Alexandria Associates in Dermatology

Gayle Masri-Fridling

Masri-Fridling Dermatology Group

VHC Health

Isabela Jones

Virginia Square Dermatology

Kristin Cam

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

VHC Health

Lina Naga

SkinDC

Margaret Kopelman

City Dermatology of Northern Virginia

VHC Health

Mark Naftanel

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

VHC Health

Matthew R. Livingood

Arlington Dermatology

Melanie E. Tawfik

District Dermatology

Michelle A. Rivera

ArlingtonSkin

VHC Health

Monica Valentin

Anne Arundel Dermatology

Nehal Shah

Alexandria Associates in Dermatology

Nina M. Fisher

Dermatology Associates of McLean

Olivia Schenck

District Dermatology

University of Virginia Medical Center

Patricia Lucey

Inova Schar Cancer Institute

Inova Fairfax Hospital

Paul Bujanauskas

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

VHC Health (admit)

Randa Khoury

Kaiser Permanente - Springfield Medical Center

VHC Health

Reem Tadros

Luxe Dermatology & Aesthetic Center

Inova Fair Oaks Hospital

Sanna Ronkainen

District Dermatology

Suraj S. Venna

Inova Schar Cancer Institute

Inova Fairfax Hospital

Wanda Patterson

Kaiser Permanente - Reston

VHC Health

William J. Alms

Dermatology Associates of McLean

EMERGENCY MEDICINE

Dawn Wyckoff

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

Dennis Truong

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

Jennifer Dunlavy

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

Praveen Kache

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

ENDOCRINOLOGY, DIABETES & METABOLISM

Anuradha Puri Dua

Privia Health - Diabetes and Endocrine Associates

Inova Alexandria Hospital; Inova Mount Vernon Hospital (admit)

Caroline Huang

Privia Health - The Endocrinology Group

VHC Health (admit)

Christina Go

Privia Health - The Endocrinology Group

VHC Health

Daniella Hines

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

VHC Health; Reston Hospital Center

• Top-Rated: #1 Cancer Center in Virginia by Castle Connolly.

• Comprehensive: Full spectrum of cancer care in one place.

• Award-Winning: Recognized nationally for quality and outcomes.

• Compassionate: Patient-centered support at every step.

Denise Armellini

The Endocrine Center

Kevin Donohue

Privia Health - The Endocrinology Group

VHC Health

Lida Tabatabaeian

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

VHC Health; Reston Hospital Center

Suzanne Rogacz

Privia Health - Northern Virginia Endocrinologists

Thien-Giang Bach-Huynh

Privia Health - The Endocrinology Group

VHC Health

FAMILY MEDICINE

Abby Evans

PMA Health

Arun Bansal

TrustMDPC

Ashley Tennyson

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

Audrey Kim Lenze

VHC Health Primary Care - Falls Church

VHC Health

Ayse Turgut

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

VHC Health (admit)

Cassandra Sims

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

VHC Health

Cecily Havert

Northern Virginia Family Practice

VHC Health; Inova Alexandria Hospital; Inova Fairfax Hospital

Charles Gardner

Northern Virginia Family Practice

Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit)

Christie Youssef

Kaiser Permanente - Fair Oaks

Kaiser Permanente Falls Church Ambulatory Surgery Center

Christopher Thomas

Kaiser Permanente - Reston

Inova Fair Oaks Hospital; Inova Fairfax Hospital

Daniel Harris

Kaiser Permanente - Springfield Medical Center

Diksha Gupta

FamilyFirst Primary Care

Inova Alexandria Hospital; Inova Fair Oaks Hospital; Inova Fairfax Hospital; Inova Health System; Inova Mount Vernon Hospital; Inova Loudoun Hospital, Landsdowne Campus; Inova Loudoun Hospital, Cornwall Campus

Elias Awad

Kaiser Permanente - Fair Oaks

VHC Health (admit)

Hong Hanh Le Nguyen

VHC Health Primary Care - Shirlington

VHC Health

Jeannette Tao

Kaiser Permanente - Burke

Jennifer Neria

Privia Health - PMA Health - Falls Church

VHC Health

Jonas Wiltz

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

VHC Health

Joy Lee

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

Natasha Beauvais

Northern Virginia Family Practice

Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit)

Priya Ghadge

Alexandria Medical Associates

Rachel Marquez

Kaiser Permanente - Alexandria

Ratih Sudharto

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

Shrey Carpenter

Kaiser Permanente - Alexandria

Summer Abdel-Megeed

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

GASTROENTEROLOGY

Alexander Jow

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

VHC Health; Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center

Ali Fazel

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

Ali T. Khan

VHC Health Digestive Center - Fairfax

VHC Health (admit)

Ami P. Patel

VHC Health Gastroenterology - Kingstowne

VHC Health (admit)

Amy Lin

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital; Reston Hospital Center

Asma P Khapra

Gastro Health - Fairfax

Inova Fair Oaks Hospital; Inova Fairfax Hospital

Behzad Kalaghchi

Gastro Health - Fairfax

Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

Deborah A. Brauer

Digestive Disease Physicians

Inova Alexandria Hospital

Diego I. Kuperschmit

Gastroenterology Center of Northern Virginia

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

Eric Wollins

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

VHC Health; Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center

Gabriel B. Herman

Gastroenterology Center of Northern Virginia

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

Irma N. Hashmi

VHC Health Physicians - Gastroenterology

Arlington

VCU Health Center & MCV Hospital and Physicians

Jesse Liu

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Margaret Schwiesow

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Martin G. Prosky

Northern Virginia Gastrointestinal Associates

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

Neena Malik

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

VHC Health; Inova Fairfax Hospital; Reston Hospital Center

Pradeep K. Gupta

Gastroenterology Center of Northern Virginia

VHC Health (admit)

Rachana Potru

Gastroenterology Center of Northern Virginia

VHC Health; Inova Fairfax Hospital

Saad A. Haque

VHC Health Physicians - Gastroenterology

Arlington

Sean P. Hurley

Digestive Disease Physicians

Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit)

Sonia Gosain

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

VHC Health; Inova Fairfax Hospital; Reston Hospital Center

Tonya L. Adams

Gastro Health - Fair Oaks

Fairfax Surgical Center; Inova Fair Oaks Hospital; Inova Fairfax Hospital; Inova Health System

Truc T. Trinh

Gastroenterology Center of Northern Virginia

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital

GENERAL SURGERY

C. Steeve David

New Me for Life - VHC Health Digestive Center

VHC Health (admit)

Chaitanya Mangalmurti

Kaiser Permanente - Fair Oaks

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Faryal Afridi

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit)

G. Kevin Gillian

Virginia Heartburn and Hernia Institute

VHC Health (admit); Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit)

Gao Chen

Kaiser Permanente - Fair Oaks

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital; Reston Surgery Center

Gwendolyn Garnett

Kaiser Permanente - Fair Oaks

VHC Health (admit)

J. R. Salameh

New Me for Life - VHC Health Digestive Center

VHC Health (admit)

Jenny Hong

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit)

Kashif Malik

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit)

Kimberly Suri

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Mami N. Martin

Inova Surgery - Willow Oaks

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

GERIATRIC MEDICINE

Angela Hsu

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

Cissy Pottanat

Center for Primary Care & Geriatrics

Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

Fola O. Oluwehinmi

Inova Primary Care - Williams Dr. VHC Health; Inova Fairfax Hospital

Jonathan Menezes

Kaiser Permanente - Reston

GYNECOLOGIC ONCOLOGY

Annette Bicher

Mid Atlantic Gynecologic Oncology and Pelvic Surgery Associates

Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

G. Scott Rose

Mid Atlantic Gynecologic Oncology and Pelvic Surgery Associates

Winchester Medical Center (admit); Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Inova Loudoun Hospital, Landsdowne Campus (admit); Mary Washington Hospital (admit)

Jasmine Han

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

Inova Fairfax Hospital

John C. Elkas

Mid Atlantic Gynecologic Oncology and Pelvic Surgery Associates

Winchester Medical Center (admit); Inova Alexandria Hospital; Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Inova Health System (admit); Inova Loudoun Hospital, Landsdowne Campus (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

HAND SURGERY

Alexander S. Croog

OrthoVirginia - Fair Oaks

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Annie P. Ashok

Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic

Cassie G. Root

Nirschl Orthopaedic Center for Sports Medicine and Joint Reconstruction

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

David W. Lee

OrthoVirginia - McLean-Tysons

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Nikhil Oak

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital; Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Peter R. Thomas

OrthoVirginia - Springfield

VHC Health (admit); Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit)

Rikesh A. Gandhi

Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic

Inova Mount Vernon Hospital (admit)

Swati Shirali

Kaiser Permanente - Fair Oaks

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center

Tiffany J. Pan

OrthoVirginia - Alexandria

VHC Health (admit); Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Health System (admit)

HEMATOLOGY & ONCOLOGY

Alexander I. Spira

Virginia Cancer Specialists - Fairfax

Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center

Anne Favret

Virginia Cancer Specialists - Fairfax

Comprehensive Breast Center

Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Inova Loudoun Hospital, Landsdowne Campus (admit)

Archana Jadhav

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

Dipti Patel-Donnelly

Virginia Cancer Specialists - Fairfax

Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

Isabelle Le

Virginia Cancer Specialists - Arlington

VHC Health; Inova Alexandria Hospital

Iva Ferreira

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health; Inova Fairfax Hospital; Reston Hospital Center

Jacob A. Ninan

Virginia Cancer Specialists - Alexandria

Inova Alexandria Hospital

John Feigert

Virginia Cancer Specialists - Arlington

VHC Health (admit); Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit)

Julie Oda

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Keeran R. Sampat

Virginia Cancer Specialists - Arlington

VHC Health (admit); Inova Alexandria Hospital

Robert Christie

Virginia Cancer Specialists - Arlington

VHC Health (admit); Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit)

Shalini Dogra

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center

Solaiman Futuri

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health; Inova Fairfax Hospital; Reston Hospital Center

HOSPICE & PALLIATIVE MEDICINE

Carol Chang

VHC Health Physicians - Virginia Hospital Center

Inova Health System (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Jane Lee

VHC Health Physicians - Virginia Hospital Center

Stafford Hospital Center (admit); VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Shashikalaa Kura

VHC Health Physicians - Virginia Hospital Center

Stafford Hospital Center (admit); VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

HOSPITAL MEDICINE

Alice Lee

VHC Health Physicians - Virginia Hospital Center

David An

VHC Health Physicians - Virginia Hospital Center

Stafford Hospital Center (admit); VHC Health (admit)

David Zarkowsky

VHC Health Physicians - Virginia Hospital Center

VHC Health (admit)

Jane A. Lee

Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group

Stafford Hospital Center (admit); VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Peter J. Ouellette

VHC Health Physicians - Hospitalists Arlington

VHC Health (admit)

INFECTIOUS DISEASE

David A. Wheeler

Infectious Diseases Physicians, Inc.

Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

David Yoho

Kaiser Permanente - Burke

Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Ian A. Seemungal

VHC Health Physicians - Infectious Disease

Arlington

VHC Health (admit)

Jennifer Primeggia

VHC Health Physicians - Infectious Disease

Arlington

VHC Health (admit)

Ligia Pic-Aluas

Kaiser Permanente - Burke

VHC Health; Inova Fairfax Hospital; Reston Hospital Center

Mark Delman

Infectious Diseases Physicians, Inc.

Inova Fairfax Hospital

Nhat Doan

Kaiser Permanente - Burke

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Rana Traboulsi

Kaiser Permanente - Burke

Rohit Modak

VHC Health Physicians - Infectious Disease

Arlington

VHC Health (admit)

Zhaneta P. Zimmer

VHC Health Infectious Disease - Arlington

VHC Health (admit)

INTERNAL MEDICINE

Aisulu Nurgozha

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

Anthony J. Rimicci

Privia Health - Arlington Primary Care

VHC Health

Chethana Rao

Prima Medicine

Inova Fair Oaks Hospital

Christina L. Malekiani

VHC Health Physicians - Primary Care Shirlington

VHC Health (admit)

Donna Lee

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

Elizabeth Cilenti

Northern Virginia Family Practice

Inova Alexandria Hospital

Geoffrey Long

Kaiser Permanente - Reston

Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Holly Batal

Kaiser Permanente - Alexandria

Hong Hanh Le Nguyen

VHC Health Physicians - Primary Care Shirlington

VHC Health

Joanna Bock

Privia Health - Arlington Primary Care

VHC Health

Jonas Wiltz

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

VHC Health

Jonathan Menezes

Kaiser Permanente - Reston

Kathryn A. Dreger

Prime, PLC

VHC Health (admit)

Ken Zweig

Northern Virginia Family Practice

VHC Health (admit); Inova Alexandria Hospital; Inova

Fairfax Hospital (admit)

Kimberly Lynn Houde

VHC Health Physicians - Primary Care McLean

VHC Health

Kusuma Nanduri

Kaiser Permanente - Fair Oaks

Lellise Shewakena

Kaiser Permanente - Reston

Maria C. Castillo-Catoni

Northern Virginia Family Practice

Inova Alexandria Hospital

Marie Huynh

Kaiser Permanente - Burke

VHC Health; Reston Hospital Center

Mark Sullivan

Northern Virginia Family Practice

Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Inova Mount Vernon

Hospital (admit)

Minh-Hai Ngo

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

Paula M. Bergamini

Privia Health - Arlington Primary Care

VHC Health

Rachel Ngernmaneepothong

VHC Health Physicians - Primary Care McLean

VHC Health

Ritu Cuttica

Privia Health - PMA Health - Falls Church

VHC Health

Sabahat Nawab

CN Internal Medicine

Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit)

Summer Abdel-Megeed

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

Timothy D. Muir

Privia Health - PMA Health - Clarendon

VHC Health (admit)

Vu Nguyen

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

VHC Health

Xiaodong Luo

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit)

Yodit Benalfew

Kaiser Permanente - Fair Oaks

MATERNAL & FETAL MEDICINE

Armin Razavi

Kaiser Permanente - Alexandria

Reston Hospital Center (admit); Stone Springs Hospital Center (admit)

Dana Marzilli

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit)

Kelly M. Orzechowski

VHC Health Physicians - Maternal Fetal Medicine

Arlington

VHC Health (admit)

Kristin Knight

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit)

Myriam Ferzli

VHC Health Physicians - Maternal Fetal Medicine

Arlington

VHC Health (admit)

NEPHROLOGY

Aklilu Yishak

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Retreat Hospital (admit)

Caroline Kwon

Virginia Nephrology Group - Alexandria

VHC Health; Inova Fairfax Hospital

Elixebeth Sullivan

Virginia Nephrology Group - Arlington

VHC Health; Inova Alexandria Hospital; Inova Fair Oaks Hospital; Inova Fairfax Hospital

Kinjal Patel

Virginia Nephrology Group - Fairfax

VHC Health (admit); Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

Paul S. Modlinger

Virginia Nephrology Group - Arlington

VHC Health (admit); Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

Renuka Sothinathan

Virginia Nephrology Group - Arlington

VHC Health; Inova Alexandria Hospital; Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital; Northern VA Community Hospital

Ronaldo Mayuga

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center

Tulsi Mehta

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit)

Vasudha Narayana

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

NEUROLOGY

Benny S. Kim

VHC Health Physicians - Neurology Arlington

Candace V. Bryan

Neurology Center of Fairfax - Fairfax Office

Inova Fairfax Hospital

Eric Czander

Northern Virginia Neurologic Associates, Ltd.

VHC Health

Faye Rosenbaum

Northern Virginia Neurologic Associates, Ltd.

VHC Health (admit)

Hilary Newgen

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health; Inova Fairfax Hospital; Reston Hospital Center

James Bicksel

Capital Neurology Services

Inova Fairfax Hospital

Margaret Perrin

Northern Virginia Neurologic Associates, Ltd.

VHC Health (admit)

Matthew R. Churchill

Neurology Center of Fairfax - Fairfax Office

Inova Fairfax Hospital

Robert N. Kurtzke

Neurology Center of Fairfax - Fairfax Office

Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

Soha Sadeghikhah

VHC Health Physicians - Neurology Arlington

VHC Health (admit)

Zahra Rezvani

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

Zurab Nadareishvili

VHC Health Neurology - Arlington

VHC Health (admit)

NEUROSURGERY

John F. Hamilton

Inova Neurosurgery - Fairfax

Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

Joseph C. Watson

Cerebrum MD

Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center (admit)

Nilesh A. Vyas

Inova Neurosurgery - Fairfax

Richard D. Murray

Virginia Neurosurgeons

VHC Health (admit)

Sidhartha Chandela

Inova Fairfax Hospital

Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital; Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Inova Loudoun Hospital, Landsdowne Campus

OBESITY MEDICINE

Nancy Selim

Revive Medicine

Seema Chaudhary

Nova Physician Wellness Center - Fairfax

Thomas F. Kingston

VHC Health - Virginia Hospital Center

VHC Health (admit)

OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY

Amanda E. Rohn

VHC Health Physicians - Charlotte S. Benjamin Center for Women’s Health VHC Health

Amy Banulis

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

Amy E. Porter

Healthcare for Women, PC VHC Health (admit)

Anna Childson

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

Stafford Hospital Center (admit); VHC Health (admit); Reston Hospital Center

Chi-Tsui Liang

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

Stafford Hospital Center (admit); VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital; Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Colleen M. Borelli

Privia Health - Northern Virginia Physicians to Women, LTD VHC Health (admit)

Elizabeth A. Brunn

VHC Health Physicians - OB/GYN Arlington VHC Health (admit)

Hania Qutub

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

Stafford Hospital Center; VHC Health; Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center

Ingrid M. Winterling

Healthcare for Women, PC VHC Health

Jennifer Biggs

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church VHC Health

Joy Kim

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

Stafford Hospital Center; VHC Health; Inova Fairfax Hospital

Katherine L. Garfield

VHC Health Physicians - Virginia Hospital Center VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital

Kendall Adams

Privia Health - Northern Virginia Physicians to Women, LTD

Lynsey C. Owen

VHC Health Physicians - OB/GYN Arlington South VHC Health (admit)

Stella Blosser

Kaiser Permanente - Burke

Stafford Hospital Center (admit); VHC Health (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Susanne Lashgari Prather

Privia Health - Northern Virginia Physicians to Women, LTD

VHC Health (admit)

OPHTHALMOLOGY

A. Wali Ziayee

Arlington Eye Care

VHC Health (admit)

AliMohammad Khorrami

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

Amy Kotecha

Capital Vision

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

Bella Davè Patnaik

Northern Virginia Center for Eyecare

Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

Daniel Albertus

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

VHC Health; Inova Fairfax Hospital

David Chu

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health; Inova Fairfax Hospital

Faheem Ahmed

Privia Health - Eye Physicians of Virginia - McLean

Office

Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Farhan Malik

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health; Inova Fairfax Hospital

Farhan Merali

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health; Inova Fairfax Hospital

Guadalupe Villarreal

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

VHC Health; Inova Fairfax Hospital

Hubert H. Pham

Eye Specialists & Surgeons of Northern Virginia - Fairfax

Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit)

Jordana G. Fein

Retina Group of Washington - Fairfax

Fairfax Surgical Center; Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit)

Katherine McCabe

Kaiser Permanente - Fair Oaks

VHC Health

Leah Fuchs

Eye Consultants of Northern Virginia

VHC Health (admit)

Mehrine Shaikh

Fairfax Cataract & Retina

VHC Health (admit)

Minh-Phuong Doan

Kaiser Permanente - Fair Oaks

VHC Health; Inova Fairfax Hospital

William F. Deegan

Spectrum Retina & Ocular Oncology

VHC Health (admit)

ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY

Aaron S. Gebrelul

Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic

Anil Taneja

Kaiser Permanente - Springfield Medical Center

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital; Reston Hospital Center

Anthony L. Avery

OrthoVirginia - Arlington

VHC Health (admit)

Anthony Ho

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Surgery Center (admit)

Brian P. Gallagher

Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic

Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Mount Vernon Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Charles Anderson “Andy” Engh

Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic

Inova Mount Vernon Hospital (admit)

Christopher C. Annunziata

OrthoVirginia - Arlington

VHC Health (admit)

Christopher P. Seidel

Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic

Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center; Stone Springs Hospital Center

Clay Wellborn

Nirschl Orthopaedic Center for Sports Medicine and Joint Reconstruction

VHC Health (admit)

Craig J. McAsey

Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic

Inova Mount Vernon Hospital (admit)

Daniel J. Cuttica

The Centers for Advanced OrthopaedicsOrthopaedic Foot & Ankle Center, Arlington

Daniel Thompson

OrthoVirginia

VHC Health (admit); Inova Alexandria Hospital; Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

David W. Romness

OrthoVirginia - Arlington VHC Health (admit)

Derek H. Ochiai

Nirschl Orthopaedic Center for Sports Medicine and Joint Reconstruction

VHC Health (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Kevin D. Sumida

OrthoVirginia - Arlington

VHC Health (admit)

Leah Schulte

Kaiser Permanente - Springfield Medical Center

VHC Health; Inova Fairfax Hospital; Reston Hospital Center

Matthew Buchanan

Nirschl Orthopaedic Center for Sports Medicine and Joint Reconstruction

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

Matthew Kinney

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health; Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Michael O’Reilly

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit)

Najam Fasihi

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Nigel M. Azer

Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic

Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Mount Vernon Hospital (admit)

Nikhil Oak

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital; Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Oliver N. Schipper

Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic

Inova Mount Vernon Hospital (admit)

Robert Sershon

Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic

Inova Mount Vernon Hospital (admit)

Ronald S. Paik

Nirschl Orthopaedic Center for Sports Medicine and Joint Reconstruction

VHC Health (admit)

Sameer Nagda

Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic

Inova Mount Vernon Hospital (admit)

Steven S. Hughes

OrthoVirginia - McLean-Tysons

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

Thomas H. Sanders

The Centers for Advanced OrthopaedicsOrthopaedic Foot & Ankle Center, Arlington

VHC Health (admit); Inova Alexandria Hospital; Inova Fairfax Hospital; Inova Mount Vernon Hospital

William G. Hamilton

Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic

Inova Mount Vernon Hospital (admit)

William P. Petersen

OrthoVirginia - Arlington

VHC Health (admit)

OTOLARYNGOLOGY

Ashley G. O’Reilly

Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists of Northern Virginia

VHC Health; Inova Fairfax Hospital; Prince William Hospital (admit)

Candice Kremer

Privia Health - Arlington ENT Associates

VHC Health

Edward Tsong

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center

Heath F. Dreyfuss

ENT & Facial Plastic Surgery

Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

James Owusu

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Jessica Kandl

Privia Health - Arlington ENT Associates

VHC Health (admit)

Michelle M. Roeser

Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists of Northern Virginia

Fairfax Surgical Center; VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital; Prince William Hospital

Nancy Judd

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

Nitinkumar Patel

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

VHC Health (admit)

Noah Meltzer

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center

Patty Lee

Otolaryngology Associates PC

Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

Robert S. Bahadori

Otolaryngology Associates

Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Sarita Kaza

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

Kaiser Permanente Falls Church Ambulatory Surgery Center; VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Shankar Sridhara

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Thomas Pilkington

Privia Health - Arlington ENT Associates

VHC Health (admit)

Thuy-Anh Melvin

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center

PAIN MEDICINE

Assaf T. Gordon

National Spine & Pain Centers - Arlington

VHC Health; Inova Health System

Danielle S. Cherrick

OrthoVirginia - McLean-Tysons

Peter Yeh

OrthoVirginia - Alexandria

Stronger starts with our top docs.

At OrthoVirginia, our physicians help people throughout our community reclaim their mobility, strength and well-being. We are proud to announce our recipients of the 2026 Top Docs by Arlington Magazine

With convenient locations across Northern Virginia we offer same day appointments at select locations. Walk-ins and extended hours are available at our Ortho On Call orthopedic urgent care center.

OrthoVirginia can help you take the first step toward recovery

To view all of our Northern Virginia area physicians and their specialties and to make an appointment, scan the QR code or visit orthovirginia.com/appointments

*Walk-in Orthopedic Urgent Care

Christopher C. Annunziata, MD Orthopedic Surgery Sports Medicine

Danielle S. Cherrick, MD Pain Medicine

Alexander S. Croog, MD Hand Surgery

Anthony L. Avery, MD Orthopedic Surgery

Steven S. Hughes, MD, FAAOS Orthopedic Surgery

David W. Romness, MD Orthopedic Surgery

Tiﬀany J. Pan, MD Hand Surgery

Kevin D. Sumida, MD Orthopedic Surgery

Peter R. Thomas, MD Hand Surgery

Jessalyn Adam, MD Sports Medicine

Garry W. K. Ho, MD Sports Medicine

Peter Yeh, MD Pain Medicine

William P. Petersen, MD Orthopedic Surgery

David W. Lee, MD Hand Surgery

Michael S. Antonis, DO, RDMS, CAQSM Sports Medicine

■ top doctors

Prashanth Mally

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

Sharat Narayanan

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

Suneetha Budampati

National Spine & Pain Centers - Arlington

Talal Ghazal

Interventional Pain and Regenerative Medicine

Specialists

Fairfax Surgical Center (admit); VHC Health (admit)

PATHOLOGY

Cary O. Poropatich

VHC Health Physicians - Cary Poropatich, MD VHC Health

Stephanie B. Soofer

VHC Health Physicians - Cary Poropatich, MD

PEDIATRIC CARDIOLOGY

Alan E. Benheim

Inova Children’s Cardiology - Fairfax

Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Inova Loudoun Hospital, Landsdowne Campus (admit); Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center (admit); Prince William Hospital (admit)

Jennifer H. Lindsey

Inova Children’s Cardiology - Fairfax

Inova Alexandria Hospital; Inova Fair Oaks Hospital; Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Inova Loudoun Hospital, Landsdowne Campus

Jin Hyuk Park

Children’s National Cardiology at Virginia Hospital

VHC Health; Inova Loudoun Hospital, Landsdowne Campus; Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center; Reston Hospital Center; Stone Springs Hospital Center

Mitchell I. Cohen

Inova Children’s Cardiology - Fairfax

Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Inova Health System (admit)

PEDIATRIC ENDOCRINOLOGY

Otilia Neacsu

Inova Children’s Endocrinology - Fairfax

Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Inova Loudoun Hospital, Landsdowne Campus

Rinku Mehra

Endo Kids Concierge

PEDIATRIC GASTROENTEROLOGY

Catherine Chao

Pediatric Specialists of Virginia - Fairfax Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

Ian Leibowitz

Pediatric Specialists of Virginia - Fairfax

Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Inova Loudoun Hospital, Landsdowne Campus (admit)

Natalie Sikka

Pediatric Specialists of Virginia - Fairfax Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

PEDIATRIC INFECTIOUS DISEASE

Katherine M. Moyer

Inova Children’s Infectious Disease - Fairfax

Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

PEDIATRIC NEUROSURGERY

Leon E. Moores

Inova Children’s Neurosurgery - Fairfax

Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

PEDIATRIC PSYCHIATRY

Asha Patton-Smith

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

Catherine McCarthy

Catherine McCarthy, MD

Inova Mount Vernon Hospital (admit)

Ross Goodwin

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

PEDIATRIC PULMONOLOGY

Dagne Assefa

Pediatric Specialists of Virginia - Fairfax

Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

PEDIATRIC SLEEP MEDICINE

Aarthi P. Vemana

Inova Children’s Sleep Center

Inova Fairfax Hospital

Melody N. Hawkins

Inova Children’s Sleep Center

Inova Fairfax Hospital

PEDIATRIC SURGERY

Bharath D. Nath

Inova Children’s General and Thoracic Surgery

Quoc Hung L. Nguyen

Inova Children’s General and Thoracic Surgery

Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

Stephen S. Kim

Inova Children’s General and Thoracic Surgery

Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

PEDIATRICS (GENERAL)

Abha Saha

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health; Reston Hospital Center

Adrian Castro

Kaiser Permanente - Springfield Medical Center

Alison F. Pease

Pediatrics of Arlington

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital

Amy Reddy

Kaiser Permanente - Burke

VHC Health (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Bassam A. Atiyeh

Northern Virginia Pediatric Associates

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

Brent Thibodeaux

Kaiser Permanente - Reston

VHC Health (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Christine Ashburn

Kaiser Permanente - Alexandria

Christine Baldrate

Northern Virginia Pediatric Associates

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital

Debbie Peng

ALL Pediatrics of Alexandria

Inova Alexandria Hospital

Diane L. Halpin

Northern Virginia Pediatric Associates

VHC Health; Inova Fairfax Hospital; Inova Fairfax Hospital

Elizabeth Cilenti

Northern Virginia Family Practice

Inova Alexandria Hospital

Elizabeth Livingood

The Kidz Docs

Erin Yee

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital

Florencia Segura

Einstein Pediatrics

Gita Reddy

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

VHC Health (admit)

Jennifer Andresen

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital; Reston Hospital Center

Krupa Playforth

Warm Heart Pediatrics PLLC

Inova Alexandria Hospital; Inova Fairfax Hospital

Minal M. Bhojani

Pediatric Associates of Alexandria

Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

Pemmaraju Dakin

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital

Pupi Demissie

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital

Sarah A. Hesselmann

Pediatrics of Arlington

VHC Health (admit)

Zoya Tirmizi

Kaiser Permanente - Fair Oaks

VHC Health; Reston Hospital Center

PHYSICAL MEDICINE & REHABILITATION

Daniel R. Davis

VHC Health Physicians - Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Arlington

VHC Health (admit)

Edward G. Allcock

VHC Health Physicians - Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Arlington

VHC Health (admit)

In a region full of hospitals, only one is just for kids.

Kids deserve care built just for them. At Children’s National Hospital, our pediatric teams support kids at every stage, from checkups to complex conditions. Ranked the #1 children’s hospital in DC, Maryland and Virginia by U.S. News & World Report*, we are here for every milestone and every brave step forward. Kids Are Our Everything.

■ top doctors

Kelly Pham

Reach Pediatric Rehab

Inova Fairfax Hospital

Suneetha Budampati

National Spine & Pain Centers - Arlington

PLASTIC & RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY

Ali Al-Attar

Affiliates in Plastic Surgery

Stafford Hospital Center (admit); VHC Health (admit); Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

Brian L. Chang

Affiliates in Plastic Surgery

Christopher C. Chang

Congressional Plastic Surgery

Inova Surgery Center (admit); Inova Alexandria Hospital; Inova Fair Oaks Hospital; Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Inova Health System (admit); Inova Mount Vernon Hospital (admit); Inova Loudoun Hospital, Landsdowne Campus (admit)

Earl M. Johnson

Dominion Plastic Surgery

VHC Health (admit); Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Inova Mount Vernon Hospital (admit); Inova Loudoun Hospital, Landsdowne Campus (admit); Prince William Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

James M. Economides

Advanced Plastic Surgery Center

Inova Surgery Center (admit); VHC Health (admit); Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Inova Health System (admit); Inova Mount Vernon Hospital (admit); Inova Loudoun Hospital, Landsdowne Campus (admit); Inova Loudoun Hospital, Cornwall Campus (admit); Reston Hospital Center

Jared Liston

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit)

Jenny Chen

Affiliates in Plastic Surgery

Inova Surgery Center; VHC Health; Inova Alexandria Hospital; Inova Fairfax Hospital

Lydia Williams

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

Marilyn Q. Nguyen

VHC Health Physicians - Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Arlington

VHC Health (admit)

Mark Venturi

National Center for Plastic Surgery

VHC Health; Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital; Inova Mount Vernon Hospital (admit)

Ping Song

VHC Health Physicians - Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Arlington

VHC Health (admit)

Stephen B. Baker

Stephen B. Baker MD, DDS, FACS - MedStar

Georgetown - McLean Satellite Office

Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

Vineet Mehan

Dominion Plastic Surgery

Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

Wendy R. Gottlieb

Wendy R. Gottlieb, MD

Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit); Stone Springs Hospital Center (admit)

PSYCHIATRY

Joseph Tasosa

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

RADIATION ONCOLOGY

Avani Rao

Radiation Oncology Associates of the National Capital Region - Inova Schar Radiation Oncology in Fairfax

Inova Fair Oaks Hospital; Inova Fairfax Hospital; Inova Health System; Inova Mount Vernon Hospital; Inova Loudoun Hospital, Landsdowne Campus; Inova Loudoun Hospital, Cornwall Campus

Gopal K. Bajaj

Radiation Oncology Associates of the National Capital Region - Inova Schar Radiation Oncology in Fairfax

Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital; Inova Fairfax Hospital; Inova Health System; Inova Loudoun Hospital, Landsdowne Campus (admit); Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center (admit)

Gregory S. Sibley

Virginia Cancer Specialists - Radiation Oncology Center

Harold C. Agbahiwe

Virginia Cancer Specialists - Radiation Oncology Center

Nadim M. Nasr

Arlington & Reston Radiation Oncology

VHC Health; Reston Hospital Center

Robert L. Hong

Arlington & Reston Radiation Oncology

VHC Health; Reston Hospital Center

Stella Hetelekidis

Radiation Oncology Associates of the National Capital Region - Fair Oaks Radiation Oncology Department

Inova Alexandria Hospital; Inova Fair Oaks Hospital; Inova Fairfax Hospital; Inova Loudoun Hospital, Landsdowne Campus; Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center

RADIOLOGY

Claude G. Raphael

Northern Virginia Radiology Consultants - Virginia Hospital Center

VHC Health

Girish Kori

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

Omar Javery

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

Raymond Chang

Fairfax Radiological Consultants PLLC

Shashi Ranganath

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

Victor David

Ortho Radiology - Tysons Corner Diagnostic Imaging

REPRODUCTIVE

ENDOCRINOLOGY / INFERTILITY

Abbaa Sarhan

CCRM Fertility of Northern Virginia

Inova Fairfax Hospital

Andrea E. Reh

Shady Grove Fertility - Arlington Inova Fairfax Hospital

Anitha S. Nair

Shady Grove Fertility - Arlington

Carter Owen

CCRM Fertility of Northern Virginia Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

David S. Saffan

Shady Grove Fertility

Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit)

Eric D. Levens

Shady Grove Fertility - Fairfax

Fady Sharara

Virginia Center for Reproductive Medicine

Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Mark Payson

CCRM Fertility of Northern Virginia

VHC Health (admit); Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Inova Health System (admit)

Michael DiMattina

Pinnacle Fertility

VHC Health (admit)

Shruti Malik

Shady Grove Fertility

Inova Fair Oaks Hospital

RHEUMATOLOGY

Daniel El-Bogdadi

Arthritis and Rheumatism Associates

Grace Ahn

Arthritis and Rheumatism Associates

Justin Peng

Arthritis and Rheumatism Associates

Mala Mehta

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

VHC Health; Inova Fairfax Hospital; Reston Hospital Center

Mamata Chand

Arthritis Clinic of Northern Virginia

Marc Phillpotts

Arthritis and Rheumatism Associates

Navera R. Ahmed

Northern Virginia Center for Arthritis, Rheumatology & Osteoporosis

VHC Health (admit)

Nicole Saddic Thomas

Arthritis and Rheumatism Associates

Pankaj Jain

Kaiser Permanente - Falls Church

Saira Bilal

Arthritis Clinic of Northern Virginia

Zuhal Arzomand

Annapolis Rheumatology

Inova Alexandria Hospital; Inova Fairfax Hospital; Inova Mount Vernon Hospital

SLEEP MEDICINE

Amit V. Patel

Virginia Heart - Fairfax Office - Sleep Center

Ashtaad Dalal

Privia Health - PMA Health - Falls Church VHC Health

Lawrence M. Stein

Privia Health - PMA Health - VHC Health Office

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital

Mrunalini Chakurkar

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Richard Chang

PMA Health

VHC Health (admit)

Richard L. Cho

Neurology Center of Fairfax - Reston Office

Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Tajender S. Vasu

Virginia Heart - Fairfax Office - Sleep Center

Inova Fairfax Hospital

SPORTS MEDICINE

Adam M. Pickett

Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic

Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Mount Vernon Hospital (admit)

Christopher C. Annunziata

OrthoVirginia - Arlington VHC Health (admit)

Garry W.K. Ho

OrthoVirginia - Fair Oaks

Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Inova Health System (admit)

George C. Branche

Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic

Fairfax Surgical Center (admit); Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Mount Vernon Hospital (admit)

Jessalyn Adam

OrthoVirginia - Alexandria

Michael S. Antonis

OrthoVirginia - Fairfax

Michael V. Narvaez

Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic

Inova Surgery Center; Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Mount Vernon Hospital (admit)

Najam Fasihi

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Richard J. Edgar

Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic

Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Mount Vernon Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Richard Sisson

Kaiser Permanente - Springfield Medical Center

Ronald S. Paik

Nirschl Orthopaedic Center for Sports Medicine and Joint Reconstruction

VHC Health (admit)

Ryan T. Hubbard

Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic

Inova Mount Vernon Hospital (admit)

Sameer Nagda

Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic

Inova Mount Vernon Hospital (admit)

Stephen C. Saddler

Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic

Inova Alexandria Hospital (admit); Inova Mount Vernon Hospital (admit)

THORACIC SURGERY

Alan M. Speir

Inova Cardiac Surgery Vascular Surgery and Vascular Lab

Inova Fairfax Hospital

Eias E. Jweied

VHC Health Cardiac, Vascular & Thoracic Surgery - Arlington

John W. Rhee

VHC Health Physicians - Cardiac, Vascular & Thoracic Surgery Arlington VHC Health (admit)

Marc Margolis

MedStar Health

Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Sandeep J. Khandhar

Virginia Cancer Specialists - Fairfax

Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

UROLOGY

Andrew B. Joel

VHC Health Physicians - Urology Arlington

VHC Health (admit)

Charlotte G. Houston

VHC Health Urology - West Alexandria

VHC Health (admit)

Gregory M. Bernstein

VHC Health Physicians - Urology West Alexandria

VHC Health (admit)

James Jezior

Kaiser Permanente - Fair Oaks

VHC Health; Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

Olga Povcher

VHC Health Physicians - Urology Arlington

VHC Health (admit)

Robert M. Mordkin

VHC Health Physicians - Urology Arlington

VHC Health (admit)

Sameer Deshmukh

Kaiser Permanente - Fair Oaks

VHC Health; Inova Fairfax Hospital; Reston Hospital Center

Timothy Kim

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VHC Health (admit); Reston Hospital Center (admit)

VASCULAR / INTERVENTIONAL RADIOLOGY

Carson Campe

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

Michael Stone

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

Mohammed Loya

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

Murat Sor Azura Vascular Care

Russell E. McWey

Northern Virginia Radiology Consultants - Virginia

Hospital Center

VHC Health (admit)

Shahine Baghai

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

Vivek Mathur

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

VASCULAR SURGERY

Dipankar Mukherjee

Inova Cardiac Surgery Vascular Surgery and Vascular Lab

VHC Health (admit); Inova Alexandria Hospital; Inova Fair Oaks Hospital (admit); Inova Fairfax Hospital (admit); Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center (admit)

Hyein Kim

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

John W. Rhee

VHC Health Physicians - Cardiac, Vascular & Thoracic Surgery Arlington

VHC Health (admit)

Priya Thirumlai

Center for Vein Restoration

Shyam Krishnan

Kaiser Permanente - Tysons Corner

PROFILES

PMA Health

A PRIVIA MEDICAL PRACTICE

PMA offers expert care in primary care and internal medicine alongside specialty services including immediate care, pulmonology, sleep medicine, travel medicine, and medical weight loss.

Since 1959, PMA Health has cared for generations of Northern Virginia families with relationship-based medicine that’s accessible and designed to evolve with patients through every stage of life. Continuity isn’t just a promise; it’s how care is delivered, year after year and visit after visit.

Our providers value long-term relationships and the everyday human moments that make great care possible. Internist Ritu Cuttica, DO, shares, “I learn every day, about medicine, my patients and the relationships we build. The best care happens when doctors know patients, not just symptoms.”

PMA makes healthcare easier to navigate with a connected, one-stop shop

model. With more than 35 providers across four locations in Falls Church and Arlington, patients can access primary care and internal medicine alongside specialty services like immediate care, pulmonology, sleep medicine, travel medicine, and medical weight loss. Since real life doesn’t always wait for an appointment, PMA’s Immediate Care offices in Clarendon and Falls Church offer walk-in and virtual visits seven days a week. Patients get timely care with clear explanations. They receive help scheduling follow-up and, if needed, connection to a PMA primary care doctor. As Immediate Care supervising physician Christopher Luk, MD, explains, “In Immediate Care, you’re meeting people at a stressful

moment. We treat what’s urgent, but we also think about what’s next: follow-up, prevention and keeping care connected so patients feel supported beyond their visit.”

PMA Health is now accepting new patients. Schedule an appointment and experience trusted care rooted in the community and built for real life.

500 and 510 W. Annandale Road Falls Church, VA 22046

3301 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA 22201

Virginia Hospital Center

1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 190 Arlington, VA 22205

703-521-6662

www.mypmahealth.com

PMA Health providers, including our Top Docs: From left (front row): Jennifer Neria, Ritu Cuttica, Richard Chang, Chris Wyckoff; (2nd row): Ashtaad Dalal, Lawrence Stein, Abby Evans; (back row): Jeff Hales, Neil Shea, William Richter, Tim Muir. Dan Casey, Nancy Maaty, Carren Wang (not shown).

Virginia Cancer Specialists

“Genetic

testing is helping us move toward more personalized treatment and prevention, and it’s important that patients understand how it can benefit them.”

—Danijela Jelovac, MD

Why is testing genetic risk for cancer important? Genetic testing is a key part of modern breast cancer care, helping identify individuals at higher risk and enabling more personalized treatment and prevention strategies. It is especially useful for detecting hereditary cancer syndromes, such as BRCA mutations, which can increase the risk of both breast and ovarian cancers. It also provides patients and their families with information to make proactive health decisions. While genetic risk does not guarantee cancer will develop, it offers valuable insight for managing and reducing risk.

Virginia Cancer Specialists is renowned for their expertise in genetic

testing. “A genetic risk assessment is recommended for individuals with a personal or family history of breast, ovarian, or related cancers, those diagnosed at a younger age, or those with high-risk features,” says Dr. Danijela Jelovac, medical oncologist with Virginia Cancer Specialists. “Because of the overlap between breast and gynecologic cancers, testing can reveal risks affecting multiple areas of health.” Results may guide surgical decisions, influence treatment options, and determine eligibility for targeted therapies. For those without cancer, results can inform screening and preventive strategies to reduce risk. A certified genetic counselor can help

determine if testing is appropriate. At Virginia Cancer Specialists, providers and genetics teams guide patients through every step, from assessing risk to interpreting results. “We ensure patients understand their options and feel supported throughout the process,” says Dr. Jelovac. “Genetic insights can impact care decisions and provide important information not only for our patients but also for their families.”

1100 N. Glebe Road, Suite 1600 3 Ballston Plaza, Arlington, VA 22201 571-350-8400

www.VirginiaCancerSpecialists.com

Clockwise from top left: Danijela Jelovac, MD, Medical Oncologist, Breast Cancer Specialist; Amy Williamson, MS, LCGC; Michelle St. John, MS, LCGC; Shawn Lipinski, ScM, LCGC.

Arthritis Clinic of Northern Virginia

SAIRA BILAL, MD

Dr. Saira Bilal, recognized as a Top Doctor and Best Physician in 2024, 2025 and 2026, delivers compassionate, evidencebased rheumatology care with expertise in arthritis and autoimmune diseases.

Serving the community since the 1960s, Arthritis Clinic of Northern Virginia is amongst the oldest rheumatology practices in Virginia. The clinic, a longstanding leader in specialty care, offers advanced biologic infusions and injection therapies, helping patients effectively manage disease and improve quality of life with confidence.

At the clinic, Dr. Saira Bilal is a distinguished, board-certified physician in rheumatology recognized for her depth of expertise and commitment to patient-centered care. With more than 20 years of experience spanning clinical practice, research and medical education, Dr. Bilal brings a comprehensive and thoughtful approach to the management of complex rheumatologic conditions. She earned her medical degree from King Edward Medical University in Pakistan, followed by an internal medicine residency at MedStar Union Memorial Hospital in Baltimore. She completed her rheumatology fellowship at the University of Texas Southwestern in Dallas, where she served as chief fellow.

Dr. Bilal has held notable academic appointments, including instructor of medicine at Washington University in St. Louis and assistant professor of rheumatology at George Washington University, where she trained fellows, residents and medical students while contributing to key institutional committees. A published author and active participant in clinical trials, she remains engaged in advancing the field.

Her clinical interests include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, psoriatic arthritis, gout, osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and Sjogren’s syndrome. She also specializes in musculoskeletal ultrasound and holds certification from the American College of Rheumatology. In addition to her impressive professional credentials, Dr. Bilal is renowned for delivering compassionate, evidence-based treatment.

1635 N. George Mason Drive, Suite 220 Arlington, VA 22205

703-525-3069

www.myarthritisclinic.com

Brian L. Chang, MD

PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGEON

Patients of Brian Chang, MD, describe him as attentive, personable and deeply involved throughout the surgical process. Known for his hands-on approach, he maintains close communication with patients from consultation through recovery. “I value being present and accessible,” he says. “Patients know they can reach me directly at any point in their care.”

Dr. Chang specializes in facial aesthetics, especially eyelid surgery and face and neck rejuvenation. His work often combines upper and lower blepharoplasty with brow and midface techniques to achieve results that are balanced, natural and structurally refined. He also

does deep-plane face and neck lifts as well as comprehensive upper and lower eyelid and brow surgeries. He completed a dedicated fellowship in Korea, focusing on eyelid surgery, rhinoplasty and facial contouring tailored to Asian anatomy and aesthetic preferences. “I use a special, nuanced approach for my Asian patients,” he explains. “Asian people have different facial anatomy, both of the bones and soft tissues, compared to people of other ethnicities. I specialize in Asian eyelid, rhinoplasty and jawline contouring surgeries.”

Dr. Chang is particularly drawn to the continuity of the surgical experience. He takes joy in accompanying his patients

Dr. Brian Chang is a double Ivy leagueeducated, board-certified plastic surgeon, specializing in aesthetic face, breast and body surgery in addition to microsurgical, autologous breast cancer reconstruction.

through the entire surgical journey, from initial consultation, where he listens to their concerns and works to collectively form a treatment plan, to performing very technically demanding and nuanced surgeries, and finally seeing how happy they are with their results. “Each plan is highly individualized,” he says. “It’s a collaborative process, where patients are closely involved in defining their outcome.”

4660 Kenmore Ave., Suite 220 Alexandria, VA 22304

(703) 832-4000

BrianLChangMD@gmail.com changplasticsurgery.com @brianchangmd

Cerebrum MD

JOSEPH CLARK WATSON, MD AND EDINA KOMLODI-PASZTOR, MD

A neurosurgeon and professor of neurosurgery at Georgetown University, Dr. Joseph Clark Watson leads the Comprehensive Brain Tumor Center at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital. Dr. Watson earned his Bachelor of Science at Stanford University and his medical degree at the University of California, San Diego. He completed his neurosurgical residency at the Medical College of Virginia (now V.C.U.) in Richmond. Dr. Watson was fellowship trained at the National Institutes of Health in pituitary surgery and cerebrovascular research and surgery. He brings the wisdom of “those pioneers

in neurosurgery from both coasts who instructed me” to bear on his patients.

Dr. Watson has been working on building a comprehensive brain tumor program where patients can see the doctors that they need efficiently and often in a single clinic, so that there is no delay in their treatment. With this comes state-of-the-art operating facilities and an intra-operative MRI. His closest collaborators in the fight against brain tumors are Dr. Komlodi-Pasztor at MedStar Georgetown and the excellent group at Virginia Cancer Specialists.

His practice in Tyson’s Corner

“Dr. Watson is outstanding. He listened to my concerns, showed compassion and answered all my questions fully. He made me feel comfortable and well cared for.”

also accommodates pituitary tumor patients (over 1,500 operations), brain aneurysms, arteriovenous malformation (AVM) and minimally invasive spine procedures. He has expertise in numerous challenging procedures, including anterior cervical disc replacement, Chiari decompression and microsurgery for trigeminal neuralgia and hemifacial spasm.

8230 Boone Ave., Suite 360 Vienna, VA 22182

703-748-1000 www.medstarhealth.org/doctors/joseph-watson-md

Nirschl Orthopaedic Center

Since its founding in 1974, Nirschl Orthopaedic Center (NOC) has been consistently rated one of the top orthopaedic and sports medicine centers in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area. Their highly experienced board-certified physicians are at the forefront of treating disorders of the hand, wrist, elbow, shoulder, spine, hip, knee, foot and ankle. Many have graduated from leading fellowship training programs and are regularly named as the area’s top doctors. NOC founder Dr. Robert P. Nirschl is an internationally recognized pioneer in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopaedic and sports

injuries. The tradition of quality care and innovation originally instilled by Dr. Nirschl continues today, thoughtfully woven into every aspect of the practice.

At NOC and its Virginia Sports Medicine Institute physical therapy facilities (locations in Arlington, McLean and Tysons), all patients are treated with uncompromising care, compassion and understanding. The physicians at NOC believe that physical rehabilitation is an integral part of a successful recovery plan. With this in mind, their physicians work closely with their physical therapy team to design an individualized program

“At Nirschl Orthopaedic Center, we provide the highest quality of care, compassion and understanding. Experience matters.”

so that full recovery is achieved as quickly as possible.

Whether you’re a professional athlete or a “weekend warrior,” Drs. Matthew Buchanan, Clay Wellborn, Cassie Root, Giscard Adeclat, Samuel Li, Ronald Paik, Derek Ochiai and Kurtis Carlock welcome the opportunity to participate in your care.

1715 George Mason Drive, Suite 504 Arlington, VA 22205

1945 Old Gallows Road, Suite 430 Vienna, VA 22182

703-525-2200 www.nirschl.com

James M. Economides, MD, FACS

IKON PLASTIC SURGERY AND MEDICAL AESTHETICS

“The deep plane facelift is recognized as the gold standard in facial rejuvenation, but it’s technically demanding and not every surgeon performs it. That’s where I’ve focused my training and my practice.”

Leaving a stable Arlington practice to build something from scratch is one of the more significant professional risks a surgeon can take—but that’s exactly what board-certified plastic surgeon James M. Economides, MD, FACS, has done. Ikon Plastic Surgery and Medical Aesthetics, now open in Chevy Chase, Maryland, didn’t exist a year ago. Everything—the space, the technology, the team and the brand— was built from the ground up while he remained fully committed to his patients.

“The way I approached it was the same way I approach surgery: methodically, with a clear plan and a willingness to get the details right even when it would be faster to cut corners,” he says. “It’s not finished—it never really is—but I’m proud of what we’ve built.”

A six-time Arlington Magazine Top Doctor, Dr. Economides specializes in deep plane facelifts—the gold standard in facial rejuvenation—alongside breast augmentation, body contouring and mommy makeovers. At Ikon, every patient works directly with him from first consultation through final follow-up.

“I don’t hand patients off to nurse practitioners or physician assistants,” he says. “That consistency isn’t just about quality control—it’s about relationships. I know my patients, I remember what they told me and I’m accountable for every decision made in their care.”

Ikon serves patients from Chevy Chase, Bethesda, McLean, Arlington, Potomac, Georgetown and throughout the Washington, D.C. metro area.

Now welcoming consultations. Visit www.ikonplasticsurgery.com or call (301) 800-7762.

2 Wisconsin Circle, Suite 615

Chevy Chase, MD 20815

301-800-7762

info@ikonplasticsurgery.com

www.ikonplasticsurgery.com

@ikon.plasticsurgery | @dreconomides

DENTISTS T P O

Our area’s most respected dental health experts, as nominated by their peers in the dental community

Alfonso L. Patron of Alfonso L. Patron,

The dental professionals in this feature were selected by Professional Research Services (PRS), which conducted an online peer-review survey of certified dentists in Arlington County, Fairfax County, the City of Falls Church and the City of Alexandria. The featured dentists, identified by their peers as outstanding in their fields, were screened and selected through the verification of licensing and review of any infractions through applicable boards, agencies and rating services. For additional information, visit prscom.com. Arlington Magazine was not involved in the selection process.

Endodontics

Abasin Safi

Dominion Endodontics - Arlington

Andrew Vo

Northern Virginia Endodontic Solutions

Anna Sidor

Prestige Dental Specialists

Asmi Shah

Prestige Dental Specialists

Brian A. Suh

Tysons Corner Endodontics

Brian Lee

Virginia Dental Solutions

David Palmieri

Dominion Endodontics - Alexandria

Deborah Yeh

Omni Endodontics

Edward Chun McLean Endodontics

Fernando J. Meza

Arlington Alexandria Endodontics

H. Vivian Lee

Arlington Alexandria Endodontics

Jayesh Patel

Jayesh S. Patel, BDS, MSD

Jessica Russo Revand Russo Endodontics

Joshua Fein

Virginia Endodontics

Khanh Dao

The Virginia Endodontic Group

Maryam Monfared

Drs. Colasanto & Monfared, P.C.

My Trinh Northern Virginia Endodontic Solutions

Nathan Schoenly

Dominion Endodontics - Alexandria

Nicholas Leon-Guerrero Omni Endodontics

Robert A. Cheron

Northern Virginia Endodontic Associates

Sara Shambayati

MetroEndo Metropolitan Endodontics

Stephanie Wu McLean Endodontics

Steven K. Kim Endodontic Excellence

Timothy Golian Timothy Golian, DDS

Yasamin Mojarad Dominion Endodontics - Alexandria

General Dentistry

Abby Halpern MT Dental Partners

Adam D. Goldstein

Virginia Dental Center Cosmetic & Family Dentistry

Adnan Al-Karagholi Merrifield Smiles

Aileen Chyn Kim Blessed Smiles Dentistry

Andrew Hinkle Hinkle Dentistry

Annie G. Kemps Mabry Dental Group

Anthony Moawad Dental Group at Reston Station

Bahar Rowhani Falls Church Comprehensive Dentistry

Bilal Chaudhry

Arlington Smiles - William Lessne, D.D.S. & Bilal Chaudhry D.D.S.

Bita Ellis

Sunshine Dentists

Boris J. Steinbach

Dr. Boris J. Steinbach, D.D.S.

Brenda J. Young

Fairfax Dental Group

Brentford Do

RenovaSmiles Family & Cosmetic Dentistry - Falls Church

Bryan D. Wood Huntington Dental

Carla Zamora

RenovaSmiles Family & Cosmetic Dentistry - Arlington

Carmen Li Wong

RenovaSmiles Family & Cosmetic Dentistry - Falls Church

Chang Yi

Fairfax Corner Dental

Christine Do

Annandale Smiles

Christopher Spagna

Drs. Spagna & Kunaish

Damien Anh Huynh

Huntington Dental

Daniel (Dan) E. Cassidy

Dr. Daniel E. Cassidy, Jr. DDS

David P. Cote

The Dental Office at River House

David Stuver

Cusumano & Stuver Dentistry of Arlington

David Matney Ballston Dental Care

Diane Flexsenhar Flex Family Dentistry

Dominick Pisciotta

Dental Care at the Courtyards

Edward Fishman

Dental Associates of Northern Virginia

Eliana Anderson

RenovaSmiles Family & Cosmetic Dentistry - Falls Church

Erika Anderson

Siranli Dental

Evan R. Sapperstein

Arlington Dental Associates

top dentists

Gary G. Kaihara

Smiles International

Hala Imam Cherrydale Family Dentistry

James M. Ronis

James M. Ronis, DDS

James Geren

Mt. Vernon Center for Dentistry

Jeena Devasia McLean DDS

Jeffrey A. Sisel Shirlington Dental

Jessica L. Hill

Dr. Jessica L. Hill, D.D.S.

John Cusumano

Cusumano & Stuver Dentistry of Arlington

Joseph A. Khalil

Arlington Dentistry by Design

Joshua W. Anderson

RenovaSmiles Family & Cosmetic Dentistry - Falls Church

Karen Harriman

Karen Harriman, DDS

Kathleen Mullaney

Kathleen Mullaney, DDS, FAGD

Kirsten Lee

Arlington Dental Aesthetics

Kristen Donohue Sunshine Dentists

Lauren B. Gibberman Gibberman Dental

Lynn M. Farrey

Lynn M. Farrey, D.D.S.

Manisha Grover Clarendon Dental Arts

Manisha Shrestha FamiDental of Burke

Mark Miller

Drs. Love & Miller, P.C.

Marwa Hamidi

Arlington Dental Team

Maryam Monfared

Drs. Colasanto & Monfared, P.C.

Mauricio Colomo

Caring Dental

Megan R. Borak

Quincy Street Dental

Melanie Wilson Hartman

Northern Virginia Smiles Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

Melanie Love

Drs. Love & Miller, P.C.

Michael Cusumano

Cusumano & Stuver Dentistry of Arlington

Michael J. Paesani

NOVA Dental Studio

Michael Rogers Fairlington Dental

Nicholas Do

RenovaSmiles Family & Cosmetic Dentistry - Arlington

Pamela Marzban

Pamela Marzban, DDS

Paul Gibberman

Gibberman Dental

Peter K. Cocolis

Peter K. Cocolis, Jr. & Associates

Philip A. Gentry Caring Dentists

Rania Abich McLean Family Dentistry

Raymund V. Favis Favis Dental

Richard Sun NOVA Dental

Richard T. Stone Stone Aesthetic Dentistry

Robert H. DeWitt

Robert H. DeWitt, D.D.S., P.C.

Robert Lobo

Dental Associates of Northern Virginia

Ronald Hauptman

Falls Church Comprehensive Dentistry

Samuel D. Cappiello

Siranli Dental

Shawdi Assar

McLean Family Dentistry

Sophia C. Phass

Flex Family Dentistry

Sousan Kunaish

Drs. Spagna & Kunaish

Stephen A. Mabry

Mabry Dental Group

Steven H. Berk

Steven H. Berk, D.D.S.

Tamara Camille Garrett

Arlington Dental Solutions

Uppasna Chand McLean Family Dentistry

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

Ali Pashapour

Pashapour Oral + Facial Surgery

Amir Naimi

Northern Virginia Oral, Maxillofacial & Implant Surgery

Amro Shihabi

Northern Virginia Oral, Maxillofacial & Implant Surgery

Cyrus Ramsey

Fairfax Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery - Alexandria

Daria Hamrah NOVA SurgiCare

David Liang

Northern Virginia Surgical Arts

David M. Morgan

David M. Morgan, DDS, MD, PLC

Edward B. Delgado

Drs. Delgado & Kuzmik in Vienna

Frederick (Fred) Liu

Fairfax Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery - Centreville

H. Iwin Chu

Northern Virginia Oral Surgery Centers

Hugh B. Zadeh

Northern Virginia Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates

Huy C. Trinh

Northern Virginia Oral Surgery Centers

Jay Bukzin

Meyer Clinic

Jeffrey Rothman

Alexandria Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Joseph Arzadon

Northern Virginia Surgical Arts

Kenneth Blais

Northern Virginia Surgical Arts

Michael McAdams

Virginia Advanced Surgical Arts

Michael A. Gentile

Meyer Clinic

Michael Timothy Gocke Virginia Advanced Surgical Arts

Mohamed (Moe) Hakim

The International Center for TMJ and Jaw Surgery - Dr. Moe Hakim

Pedram Yaghmai

Northern Virginia Oral, Maxillofacial & Implant Surgery

Ryan Peters

Northern Virginia Surgical Arts

Sang Y. Kim

Sang Y. Kim DMD, MD, P.C.

Snehal Patel

Lorton Dental Implant & Oral Surgery

Soheil Rostami

Northern Virginia Oral Surgery Centers

Steven Robertson

Fairfax Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery - Burke

Vincent Nguyen-Cao

Alexandria Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Ziad Ali

Elevation Center for Oral, Facial, and Implant Surgery

Orthodontics

Ali Ghatri

Let’s Smile Dental

Ann Cheron

Cheron Orthodontics

Ashkan Ghaffari

Ghaffari Orthodontics

Christine F. Stang

Stang Family Orthodontics

Claudia L. Cruz

Cruz Orthodontics

Crissy Markova

Virginia Center for Orthodontics

D. Michael Ellis

Virginia Orthodontic Partners - Burke

Danielle Robb Northern Virginia Orthodontics

Darin Iverson

Iverson & Wahab Orthodontics

David Hughes

David Hughes Orthodontics

Donald F. Larson

Larson Orthodontics

Garret Djeu

NoVA Orthodontics - Garret Djeu, DMD

Gregory D. Bath

Dr. Bath Orthodontics

H. Quoc Lu

First Impression Orthodontics

Hani Thariani TBraces Orthodontics

Herbert M. Hughes

Hughes Orthodontics

Ibrahim Y. Alhussain

Tysons West Orthodontics & Children’s Dentistry

Jade N Tran

Gentle Touch Dental P.C.

Ji Lim

The McLean Orthodontist

Justin M. Hughes

Hughes Orthodontics

Madison Moore

Virginia Orthodontic Partners - Annandale

Meghan J. Lindgren

Virginia Orthodontic Partners - Annandale

Mohamed Masoud

Berman & Masoud Orthodontics

Mona Wahab

Iverson & Wahab Orthodontics

Nakysa Kheirandish

Trü Orthodontics

Robert Marzban

The McLean Orthodontist

Rodney Klima

Burke Family Orthodontics

Scott Berman

Berman & Masoud Orthodontics

Susana Lopez Avanti Dentistry

Suzanne Duvalsaint Marzban

The McLean Orthodontist

William S. Lee

Alexandria Braces

Pediatric Dentistry

Allie Lonneman

VK Pediatric Dentistry

Amy H. Adair

Amy H. Adair, DMD, MSD

Chi-Lan Pham

Growing Smiles of Northern Virginia

Christine Reardon-Davis

Christine Reardon-Davis, DMD PC

David Treff

Pediatric Dentistry of Burke

Gema Island

Island Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics

Giannina Galliani

Growing Smiles of Northern Virginia

Heba Rashed Petite Smiles

Jayne Delaney

Jayne E. Delaney, DDS and Rory N. Smith, DDS

Jazmin Floyd

Pumpkin Pediatric Dentistry

Jeffrey P. Davis

Jeffrey P. Davis, DDS,PC

John Han

Pediatric Dental Care

Latoya M. Barham

Precious Smiles of Virginia

Matt Dudek

Hero Pediatric Dentistry

top dentists

Mina Dadkhah

Smileville Family Dental

Niloo Mofakhami

Children’s Dentistry of Oakton

Peter Markov

VK Pediatric Dentistry

Rishita Jaju Smile Wonders

Roselyne Gichana

Falls Church Pediatric Dental Center

Saman Madani

Sunny Smiles Pediatric & Family Dentistry

Shwetha Rai

Shirlington Pediatric Dentistry

Sunna Bashir

Pediatric Dental Care

Victoria Onesty

Pediatric Dental Center of Northern Virginia

Periodontics

A. Garrett Gouldin

Northern Virginia Periodontics

Adrian Rudiak

Prestige Dental Specialists

Alfonso L. Patron

Alfonso L. Patron, DDS Periodontics & Implant Surgery

Antara Daru

Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry

Bandar Almaghrabi Dental Care of Alexandria & McLean

Brian Feeney

NOVA Institute

Christine Karapetian Washington Periodontics

Dima Lakkis

Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry

Eugene Oh

Vienna Periodontics & Implant Surgery

Fadi Hasan

Sculpt Center for Implants & Periodontics

Francisco T. Carlos

Northern Virginia Periodontics

Hazem Saqqal PerioWorks

J. Alexander Withers

J. Alexander Withers, D.D.S., M.S.

Jennifer H. Diaz

Jennifer H. Diaz, DMD, MS

Justin Zalewsky

Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry

Karl A. Smith

Karl A. Smith, DDS

Keren Sperling

Nova Periodontics & Dental Implants

Khashayar Changi

Smile Makers Dental Center - Tysons

Lillian C. Carpio

The Periodontal Implant Institute

Lourdes Ann Christopher

Falls Church Periodontics & Dental

Implant Surgery

Mehrdad Favagehi

Falls Church Periodontics & Dental Implant Surgery

Michael Colasanto

Drs. Colasanto & Monfared, P.C.

Norachai “Eddy” Phisuthikul

Prestige Dental Specialists

Tony Palumbo

Vienna Periodontics & Implant Surgery

Trang N. Salzberg Periodontics & Implant Center of Northern Virginia

Vishal Gohel

Northern Virginia Periodontics

William Wang

Northern Virginia Perio Health

Prosthodontics

Benjamin O. Watkins

Smiles International

Christina Wang

Smiles International

Dan Pinto Hoyos & Pinto Dentistry

Daniel Sullivan

Lenz Sullivan Dentistry - Vienna Office

Harshit Aggarwal Center for Dentofacial Aesthetics

Hugo Bonilla

Bonilla Dental Arts

Peterson Huang

Nova Premier Dental

Sebastian Viski

Bonilla Dental Arts

William Wilson

Nova Prosthodontics

Dr. Samantha Siranli Siranli Dental

Sleep & TMJ Therapy

JEFFREY L. BROWN, DDS, MBA

Dr. Brown is a graduate of Georgetown Dental School and an international speaker for TMD. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain, an ALF InterFace Legacy Provider and holds memberships with many academies. His extensive knowledge in the combined fields of TMJ, sleep, osteopathy and orthodontics gives him a unique perspective.

Q: What is the connection between sleep apnea and TMD—and what are some signs I might have one or both of them?

A: More people have Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) than realize it. Common red flags include loud snoring, gasping at night, morning headaches, brain fog, mood swings and daytime fatigue—and left untreated, it raises your risk for heart disease, depression and more. Many people are also surprised to learn that sleep apnea and TMD are closely linked. Studies show that more than half of TMD patients have trouble sleeping, and about half of sleep apnea patients experience jaw pain. The conditions tend to worsen each other: jaw misalignment can restrict the airway, and adjusting sleep position to relieve jaw pain can worsen breathing. Sound familiar? If so, talk to your doctor—it could be life-changing!

Q: What makes your approach to TMD and sleep apnea treatment unique?

A: Many dentists use Botox or other injectables to ease TMD pain, but that’s just a temporary fix—ultimately, the underlying problem is still there. Rather than just masking symptoms, I treat the root cause by guiding the jaw joint back into the socket where it belongs, so it no longer pinches nerves and blood vessels. Even in cases others say can’t be helped, my patients’ before-and-after MRIs often show real improvement. I use custom orthotics to gently reposition the jaw and restore natural bite height, thereby reducing joint pressure. Once symptoms improve, we explore lasting solutions like orthodontics or crowns for long-term stability. It’s a simple, structural approach to healing that most dentists aren’t trained in.

2841 Hartland Road, Suite 301 Falls Church, VA 22043

703-821-1103

office@sleepandtmjtherapy.com www.sleepandtmjtherapy.com

NOVA Dental Studio

MICHAEL J. PAESANI, DMD

Dr. Michael J. Paesani earned his Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine and completed his residency at the VA Medical Center in West Palm Beach. He offers comprehensive general and cosmetic dentistry that blends the latest advancements with personalized, patient-focused care to deliver exceptional results.

Q: How has technology changed the patient experience?

A: Technology has transformed the dental visit into something faster, more precise and easier on the patient. The biggest shift is the move from analog to digital dentistry. Goopy impressions, film X-rays and stone models shipped to outside labs have given way to intraoral scanners, instant digital radiographs and on-screen treatment planning that the patient can actually see. 3D printing builds on that digital foundation, allowing crowns, aligners, night guards and surgical guides to be produced chairside or in-house. Crowns that once required two visits and a temporary can now be completed in a single appointment. Accuracy has improved, too—digital scans avoid the distortions of physical impressions, and guided implant surgery places implants exactly as planned, meaning fewer adjustments and longer-lasting results. For patients, that adds up to fewer appointments, less chair time and a clearer view of their own care.

Q: What’s the most common misconception you hear about dental care?

A: That it’s unaffordable and unpredictable. In reality, most offices offer membership plans, financing and phased treatment, and preventive visits are often fully covered, costing far less than treating problems later. Modern materials and digital workflows mean crowns routinely last 15 years or more, composite fillings can last a decade or longer and implants have success rates above 95 percent. With good hygiene and regular checkups, quality dental work lasts far longer than most patients realize.

Q: What do you hope patients take away from their first visit?

A: A sense that we genuinely care about their health—and a bright smile!

200 Little Falls St., Suite 101 Falls Church, VA 22046

703-997-1962

www.novadentalstudio.com

Falls Church Periodontics

Drs. Christopher and Favagehi met while they were residents at The Ohio State University. They’ve been married for over 25 years. They’re both board-certified specialists in periodontics and dental implant surgery by the American Board of Periodontology. Patients are accepted through referrals from general dentists or by calling the office directly to schedule a consultation.

Q: What is unique about your practice?

A: We are highly specialized in what we do, and despite operating one of the area’s more established periodontics and implant dentistry practices, we treat each patient with a personal touch. At Falls Church Periodontics & Dental Implant Center, we work closely with patients, tailoring solutions to their specific needs and budgets. Our practice employs the latest technologies, including lasers, 3-D scanners, 3-D X-rays and 3-D printing for computer guided surgery. Furthermore, we extend this technology to our referring dentists, fostering collaborative, comprehensive patient care. Dr. Favagehi is an editor of a newsletter for the Academy of Osseointegration, a world-renowned dental implant organization, so he stays up to date about the latest in implant dentistry. Dr. Christopher is a recognized leader in periodontal plastic surgery and gingival grafting around teeth.

Q: What is one thing your patients should know about you?

A: We’re both teachers — and we believe to truly master a subject, you should teach it — which helps us explain even the most complicated treatments to our patients so they can understand and make informed decisions. Dr. Christopher has served as a clinical instructor at several universities, including the University of Maryland Dental School.

Dr. Favagehi has received a teaching award from the American Academy of Periodontology for his work as a clinical instructor at VCU Dental School for more than 25 years. Both doctors are active presenters at many dental meetings in the U.S. and abroad.

313 Park Ave., Suite 103 Falls Church, VA 22046

703-237-3700

periodontistoffice@gmail.com www.periodontistoffice.com

Above: Mehrdad Favagehi, DDS, MS, Cert. Perio, Fellow-Academy of Osseoinetgration and Lourdes Ann Christopher, DDS, MS, Cert. Perio

Siranli Dental

SAMANTHA SIRANLI, DMD, PHD

Awards & Honors

Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics

Fellow, American College of Prosthodontists

Diplomate, American Board of Oral Implantology

Q: What makes your approach to smile makeovers unique?

A: We begin by studying each patient’s unique facial structures, including cheekbones, lip support, smile line and teeth display. We consider resting and full smiles, and we carefully listen to the patient to understand their goals. Only then can we deliver the stunning yet natural-looking smiles that built our reputation.

Our in-house, state-of-the-art lab is also unique. Technicians craft veneers and crowns onsite, collaborating directly with our doctors and patients to ensure the best aesthetic and functional results. Seeing a patient’s transformation firsthand adds an extra level of passion and dedication.

Q: Beyond appearance, what would you say is the biggest benefit of cosmetic dentistry?

A: Regaining confidence. For cosmetic cases, we need to observe the patient’s authentic smile. They start with a learned smile, so we must coax it out. But when patients see the results, they can instantly reflect their joy with a genuine, radiant smile. Watching this transformation is extremely gratifying and life-changing for the patient.

Q: What are your most popular services? What makes them special?

A: Patients routinely fly in from across the country for our porcelain veneers and dental implants. What sets us apart is a blend of precise technique, exceptional artistry and meticulous attention to detail.

Offices in McLean (703-734-0100), Clarendon (703-528-0800), Crystal City (703-415-0505) and Washington, D.C. (Foggy Bottom and Dupont) www.siranlidental.com

Omni Endodontics

DEBORAH YEH, DDS AND NICHOLAS LEON-GUERRERO, DDS

Q: What do you hope patients take away from their first experience at Omni Endodontics?

A: We like to prove that high-end, board-certified specialty care can be delivered in a way that’s compassionate, transparent and genuinely comfortable. Rather than just recommending procedures, we prioritize listening, considering the full clinical picture and giving patients the clarity to make the right decision for themselves. Whether someone is here for a consultation or a complex procedure, we want them leaving confident that their natural smile is in the best possible hands and that our team is a true partner in their long-term health. Hopefully,

Board-certified endodontists, Drs. Nicholas Leon-Guerrero and Deborah Yeh combine clinical excellence with humility and a patient-centered approach, ensuring patients feel informed, respected and cared for at every visit. Dr. LeonGuerrero earned his Certificate in Endodontics at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine; Dr. Yeh received hers from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine.

everyone walks out thinking, “Wow, that was a lot easier than I expected.”

Q: What do you wish more people understood about endodontic treatment?

A: Root canals are associated with pain, but they’re actually the solution to discomfort, not the cause. Nothing performs or feels quite like your own natural teeth, and as endodontists, we specialize in preserving that natural structure. The earlier you seek treatment, the better—waiting too long can lead to more complex and costly procedures. Today’s technology, including 3D imaging, surgical microscopes and our new Biolase Waterlase laser, has completely

transformed the patient experience. A procedure that once required several long visits can now typically be done in less than an hour, and the process feels no different than getting a routine filling.

Q: How do you make emergency care more accessible?

A: Dental pain can’t wait, and neither should you. We reserve time every day for same-day and urgent cases, ensuring premium specialty care is available when you need it most.

2700 Quincy St., Suite 325 Arlington, VA 22206 (703) 828-8188

www.endodontistinarlington.com

Fairlington Dental

DR. MICHAEL ROGERS

Q: What sets your practice apart from others?

A: Having dealt with dental challenges from childhood into adulthood, I have a deep understanding of what patients go through. This personal experience drives me to approach every patient with empathy, ensuring they feel comfortable and cared for as individuals, not just as patients.

Q: What can new patients expect during their first visit?

A: We prioritize listening to you. Instead of telling you what we think you need, we start by understanding your concerns, goals and health. From there, we collaborate to create a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.

Q: What is the most important thing people should understand about maintaining a healthy smile for life?

A: Oral health is not just about visits to the dentist. It’s about taking an active role in your daily care and being mindful of how your oral health connects to your overall well-being. Consistency and attention are key to maintaining a smile that lasts.

Q: How do you incorporate new technology in your practice?

A: We utilize the latest advancements in dental technology, including lasers, 3D imaging and AI-driven diagnostics, to provide faster, more accurate treatments with less discomfort.

Dr. Michael Rogers’ journey into dentistry was shaped by personal dental struggles that fueled his passion for the field. After earning degrees from Harvard and UCLA, he focused on cosmetic dentistry, sleep and TMJ. Dedicated to the connection between dental health and overall well-being, Dr. Rogers stays current with new techniques and technologies.

Q: Can you share a memorable patient experience?

A: I will never forget discovering a hidden issue during a routine scan, which ultimately led to a life-saving treatment. Moments like that show how much of a difference dentistry can make. Not just for smiles, but for overall health. Helping people feel better and live healthier lives is what makes dentistry so fulfilling.

4850 31st St. South, Suite A Arlington, VA 22206 703-671-1001 www.fairlingtondental.com

Flex Family Dentistry

DIANE FLEXSENHAR, DDS

Dr. Diane Flexsenhar earned her DDS from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and was named a “Top Dentist” by Northern Virginia Magazine in 2025. She delivers a full range of advanced dental services—from preventive and cosmetic care to restorative treatments and implants—with a whole-health approach and genuine passion for her patients.

Q: What does stepping into a practice that’s been part of this community for nearly 60 years mean to you?

A: It’s such an honor. When Dr. Jack Phass Jr. started this practice in 1968, he built it around personal, compassionate care. His kids, Dr. Sophia and Dr. Dean, spent 30 years honoring everything he created. Now it’s our turn and I don’t take that responsibility lightly.

As a Navy spouse, I’ve moved a lot, so I know what it means to finally find a place where you feel known and cared for. That’s what this practice has been for so many families here, for generations. For me, it’s about protecting what makes it special, building on it and making sure every person who walks in feels the warmth and trust that’s been here from the beginning. That part doesn’t change.

Q: What is your approach to care?

A: I approach every patient with a whole-health perspective—your mouth and your overall well-being are inextricably linked—and I love being the one to help people understand that connection. I take time to walk them through their diagnoses and treatment options so they can make informed decisions that best fit their needs and lifestyles. Whether you’re here for a routine cleaning, a smile makeover, clear aligners, implants, TMD or sleep apnea concerns, or therapeutic Botox, the experience should always feel comfortable, personal and maybe even a little fun! Everything I do comes from a genuine love of helping people look and feel their best.

4700 King St., Suite 325 Alexandria, VA 22302

703-824-0055

www.flexfamilydentistry.com

TONY J. LEWIS

Virginia Dental Center

ADAM D. GOLDSTEIN, DDS

Q: What shapes your approach to patient care?

A: A lot of what I bring to dentistry comes from coaching my kids’ sports teams. I love helping kids build confidence, stay disciplined and work together. I approach patients the same way—making sure they feel comfortable, informed and supported throughout their care.

Patience is a big part of that, especially with anxious patients or people who haven’t had great past experiences. I try to be a calm, steady presence and build real trust. At the end of the day, I want my office to feel like a place where people

feel at ease and where they know they’re being listened to and genuinely cared for.

Q: What makes you different than other dentists?

A: Patients often tell me it’s my chairside manner. I take the time to explain what I’m doing, answer questions and make sure people feel comfortable. I also offer Botox for patients dealing with jaw pain or TMJ.

I’m deeply committed to continuing education and staying current with advances in dentistry. I’m active in two local dental study clubs and lead one of them, collaborating regularly with other dentists

Dr. Adam D. Goldstein earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine and completed his residency at the VA Hospital in Washington, D.C. He offers comprehensive general and cosmetic dentistry with a focus on thoughtful, personalized care and longterm patient relationships.

in the D.C. area to continue learning and refining my approach to patient care.

Q: What inspired you to become a dentist?

A: My father was a dentist, which inspired me early on. I was drawn to the combination of hands-on work, problem-solving and the opportunity to help people feel better and more confident. It’s something I still feel grateful to be doing every day.

1025 N. Fillmore St., Suite A Arlington, VA 22201

703-879-7918

www.virginiadentalcenter.com

Endodontic Excellence

STEVEN K. KIM, DMD; WONHEE ALAN LEE, DDS, MS

Q: Why choose Endodontic Excellence?

A: At Endodontic Excellence, we blend board-certified expertise, advanced technology and a patient-first approach. Both doctors are Diplomates of the American Board of Endodontics, a distinction held by only a small percentage of specialists. We’ve invested in technologies that improve precision, comfort and outcomes, while also prioritizing clear communication, efficiency and a calm, supportive experience from the first call through follow-up care.

Q: How has technology changed the patient experience?

A: Technology has transformed modern root canal treatment. Innovations like GentleWave and lasers allow us to clean and disinfect the root canal system more thoroughly while preserving healthy tooth structure. For patients, this means painless, single-visit root canal treatment with faster recovery and predictable long-term success. Combined with CBCT imaging and surgical microscopes, we can diagnose and treat complex cases with far greater accuracy.

11800 Sunrise Valley Drive, Suite 250, Reston, VA 20191

703-215-4122

7010 Little River Turnpike, Suite 450, Annandale, VA 22003 703-372-9492 | www.endodonticexcellence.com

Karen Harriman, DDS

Q: What do you hope patients take away from their first visit to your office?

A: That they can trust us—and that we don’t take that trust lightly. Many patients come in carrying years of anxiety or bad experiences with dentistry, and I want them to leave feeling genuinely cared for as an individual, not just another name on the schedule. As a boutique practice, we are patient-focused and take the time to ensure patients feel at home. Here, the patient is always in the driver’s seat. If you need to stop, we stop. You tell me how things are going, not the other way around. Ultimately, I hope every patient leaves feeling like they’ve found a real partner in their long-term health and that they’re in the hands of an experienced team that truly loves what they do.

3100 S. Manchester St., Suite T-4 Falls Church, VA 22044

703-671-2222 www.karenharrimandds.com

WILLIAM GALLAGHER

Northern Virginia Periodontics

FRANCISCO T. CARLOS, DMD, MSD, PC; A. GARRETT GOULDIN, DDS, MS, PC; VISHAL GOHEL, DMD, MS, PLLC

Q: What makes you different from other dentists?

A: At Northern Virginia Periodontics (NVP), our path to dentistry is grounded in a shared passion for combining science, precision and compassion to improve patients’ lives. In 1995, Dr. Garrett Gouldin founded the practice, which continued to grow with the additions of Dr. Francisco Carlos in 2013 and Dr. Vishal Gohel in 2020.

Together, our doctors share a vision centered on integrity and surgical excellence, while delivering a gentle, patient-focused approach and a strong commitment to comfort. With decades of advanced periodontal and implant training, we emphasize innovation and efficiency in every aspect of care.

Q: How would your patients describe your office?

A: Patients often describe us as approachable, thorough and genuinely invested. What brings us the most satisfaction is transforming both oral health and confidence, whether through implants, gum disease treatment or preventive care.

Q: What is unique about your practice?

A: What makes us different is our collaborative approach. We work together on cases daily, amongst ourselves and our referring partners, combining perspectives to create the best outcomes. Our practice is unique in its balance of personalized care and advanced technology. From our Falls Church roots to our

Our team is guided by innovation, integrity, harmony, compassion and service. We continually evolve to provide advanced care, build trust and foster genuine connections through open communication. We remain dedicated to delivering balanced, thoughtful, focused care to every patient.

Alexandria expansion, we’ve remained committed to minimally invasive techniques and tailored treatment plans.

One of our biggest goals is ensuring every patient receives the time and attention they deserve while maintaining the highest clinical standards. Above all, we treat every patient with the same care and respect we would expect for our own family—listening closely, educating thoughtfully and guiding them toward lasting oral health.

1900 Duke St., Suite 110, Alexandria, VA 22314

703-683-0117

103 W. Broad St., Unit 601, Falls Church, VA 22046

703-534-1766

www.northernvaperio.com

Brianna Gilbert

Wakefield High School

Awards

In a time of uncertainty, these students stood out for their intense focus, insatiable curiosity and determination to make a difference.

BY LISA GRACE LEDNICER

“Seeing the value of women’s education [there] has impacted my desire to improve education in the United States,” says the 18-year-old.

Brianna Gilbert was an eighth grader at Thomas Jefferson Middle School when she raised $2,000 for Nurturing Minds, a nonprofit that provides technical and financial support to SEGA Girls’ Secondary School in Tanzania. That summer, she traveled to Africa to volunteer at SEGA and created an entrepreneurship contest for its smallbusiness program. Since then, she and her sister, Gabrielle, have raised $25,000 for the school.

At Wakefield High, Gilbert served as president of the Black Student Union, vice president of the History Honor Society and president of her senior class. She launched a program called Fast Track that pairs high-achieving students with underserved middle-school students as mentors.

She’s an athlete, too. As a freshman member of the crew team, she earned silver in state competition. This year she garnered an All-District Honorable mention in girls’ basketball.

Gilbert’s accomplishments are all the

more remarkable in light of the concussion she sustained in a basketball game sophomore year. For weeks, she couldn’t see well enough to read, and for nine months she suffered from debilitating headaches. She missed so much school that a counselor raised concerns about her college prospects.

She ended up graduating with a 4.23 GPA and is attending Howard University on a full scholarship, after which she plans to pursue a combined law and PhD program, and a career in education policy.

“I think of what legacy I want to leave,” she says. “I want to be that support. I want to be that change.”

MICHAEL VENTURA

Hannah Boesen

Meridian High School

Music has long been Hannah Boesen’s passion. As a child, she sang in a church choir, took piano and guitar lessons, taught herself the electric bass guitar and auditioned for the Children’s Chorus of Washington, eventually touring with the group in Eastern Europe.

In high school, she founded a band called Verb, writing music and lyrics, managing its social media presence and ensuring its songs were on Spotify.

A member of The Porter’s Gate, a Christian music collective that includes songwriters, musicians, scholars, pas-

tors and music industry professionals, she calls singing her “guiding force.”

“It’s stabilized me as an individual,” says the 18-year-old. “It is such a luxury that has allowed me to have something that’s my own but can be shared.”

Boesen has been involved with Girl Scouts since kindergarten and is dedicated to serving others. As a youngster, she watched her father teaching English to families of diplomats through a school he ran. During the pandemic, he stopped taking a salary but kept his students engaged, organizing museum outings and hosting monthly potlucks.

“It was really beautiful,” she says. “That’s what really influenced me—seeing how to integrate work and service, how to build things for other people.”

As a junior at Meridian, Boesen was

selected for a yearlong fellowship with Operation Understanding DC, which trains future social justice leaders to recognize and challenge discrimination. An 11-day civil rights trip through the South opened her eyes to the lingering effects of segregation and environmental racism.

These days, she volunteers with Arlington’s Restoration Immigration Legal Aid Clinic, providing on-site childcare for immigrants who come to the clinic for pro-bono legal assistance.

Boesen graduated with a full IB diploma and a 4.4 GPA, and is heading to Taiwan on a U.S. State Department scholarship, where she’ll learn Mandarin. When she returns after a full academic year, she plans to attend Northwestern University.

Jack Woda

Bishop O’Connell High School

Jack Woda was a junior at Bishop O’Connell when he committed to college at East Carolina University. A Division 1 baseball recruit and star catcher, he’s aiming for the Majors. Some MLB scouts already have him on their radar.

As a kid, Woda also played soccer, basketball and football. He decided to focus exclusively on baseball in high school, even though it wasn’t his best sport. He’ll tell you he was the weakest player on his travel team.

But his determination was formidable. During the pandemic, his family built a batting cage in their backyard so he could work on his swing. “I fell in love with hard work,” he says. “Once I figured out how to get good, it was like a rocket ship, getting better and better.”

As a sophomore and junior, Woda made the first team in the Washington Catholic Athletic Conference and was twice selected for the USA Baseball National Team Development program. He launched Baseball Cares, a one-day free program for youth ages 12 to 14, soliciting equipment donations and enlisting area Division 1 players as coaches.

Now 18, he’s a knowledgeable resource for parents who are curious to learn more about how college sports recruiting works.

Baseball doesn’t require you to be the biggest, the tallest or the smartest player, says Woda (he’s 5-foot-10). But it does require discipline. “Just working hard and being consistent will take you anywhere.”

Aliyah Majeed-Hall

The Potomac School

Childhood summers on the Delaware Bay were formative for Aliyah MajeedHall. Horseshoe crabs and blue herons left her awestruck, as did nature hikes with her family. She became a vegetarian at age 9 because she decided it was unethical to eat animals.

During the pandemic, she picked up a geometry textbook she found lying around the house and was captivated. Since then, she’s sought out projects that combine her interest in math and the environment. “I’ve always loved puzzles

and riddles,” she says. “One of my favorite things about science is I get to solve environmental problems.”

Majeed-Hall spent the summer before her junior year as an intern with the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, measuring greenhouse gas emissions from trees. She went on to develop a physics-based model to trace emissions in forests, for which she was named among the top 300 scholars nationwide in the Regeneron Science Talent Search.

She also volunteers at Affordable Homes & Communities (AHC), an affordable housing nonprofit in Arlington. Noticing that many of the kids she was mentoring didn’t have books of their

own, she organized a series of book fairs, soliciting donations from family, friends, bookstores and book publishing companies. Her One Word Reading Initiative has distributed more than 5,000 books to low-income families. The “Today” show featured her in a segment in March of 2025.

At The Potomac School, MajeedHall maintained a 4.0 (unweighted) GPA and was a member of the varsity swim and soccer teams. She was recruited to play goalie at MIT, where she’ll be a first-year student this fall. She plans to double-major in climate systems engineering and math. Her ambition is to solve leading climate problems of the future.

DONNA

Devesh Stansbury

Washington-Liberty High School

At 18, Devesh Stansbury is already a serial entrepreneur. A childhood hobby trading sports cards for cash led him to start trading stocks at the end of eighth grade. Two years later, he developed a gamified money-management app called Firefly Finance that helps middle and high school students develop financial literacy.

The app, which includes quizzes, a compound interest calculator and tools to help users evaluate risk, won state and national awards from the Future Business Leaders of America.

As a junior at W-L, Stansbury developed a student journalism platform called LegiLight where student writers could post commentary and analyses of global issues. The site published 54 submissions and reached 500,000 readers through social media, he says.

That same year, Stansbury became the advocacy director for Virginia High School Democrats, leading a coalition of students in support of a bipartisan state bill requiring digital literacy be taught in Virginia schools. He testified during a House subcommittee meeting alongside the chair of Virginia High School Republicans. The bill cleared the General Assembly and was signed into law by then-Gov. Glenn Youngkin.

“People with political power are [more accessible] than you might think,” he says. “It takes ability to speak and advocate for yourself to close that barrier. It’s important to do your best to improve the lives of as many people as possible.”

Stanbury applied early-decision and was admitted to The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. He graduated from W-L with a 4.59 GPA and plans to major in economics, with a concentration on finance and economic policy.

Lilianna DeGisi

Yorktown High School

Lilianna DeGisi learned how to handle guns responsibly at an early age, with guidance from her father, and fell in love with the sport of shooting after attending a hunting and fishing camp. By age 14, she was the U-18 women’s state champion in trap shooting.

A three-year captain of Yorktown High School’s precision rifle team, she twice competed in the USA Shooting National Junior Olympics, representing

the state of Virginia in 2025 and 2026.

Riflery requires agility and a mastery of different types of rifles and pistols, but “it’s mostly mental,” says the 18-year-old. She attributes much of her success to controlled breathing and timing her heart rate to when she pulls the trigger. She’s at the gym almost daily, strengthening her core, arms and back, and she practices year round.

Maintaining confidence is the hard part, she says, recalling how she tried out for Junior Olympics as a sophomore but “completely panicked” and was cut. A year later, she overcame those jitters and made the team.

DeGisi had enough credits to gradu-

ate early from Yorktown, but opted to pursue dual enrollment classes in medical terminology, history and communication through Northern Virginia Community College. She volunteers at VHC Health’s radiology department and is training to become an EMT. She hopes to become a surgeon for the military.

This fall, she heads to the University of Tennessee, where she was accepted into the Honors College. She chose the school partly because the campus is within walking distance of three hospitals, where she aims to work as an emergency room technician between classes.

“I thrive when I’m busy,” she says. “I need something to do all the time.”

MICHAEL

VENTURA

Colton Moore

St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School

Colton Moore can trace his love of robotics back to his childhood in Arlington, when he learned how to program robots using Legos. As a middle-schooler, he began tinkering with 3D printers, designing and fabricating household accessories such as a phone stand and a TV-remote holder.

This fall, the 4.0 (unweighted) student will attend Rensselaer Polytechnic

Institute, where he’ll major in mechanical engineering. He hopes to one day build robots that go into space. “I really enjoy making a prototype and seeing it start to exist,” he says, “putting in all the work and seeing it do stuff.”

Moore, 17, was captain of his school’s robotics drive team and an integral member of various classroom engineering projects—including one in which he designed a small bridge capable of supporting his body weight. He also built a robot capable of moving furniture.

A third-degree black belt in tae kwon

do, Moore earned his Eagle Scout badge at age 13, building picnic tables for a church preschool during the pandemic. He’s been wrestling since eighth grade and captained St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School’s wrestling team during his junior and senior years.

Last summer, he attended a NASAaffiliated program, Virginia Aerospace Science and Technology Scholars, joining students from across the state in planning a mission to Mars. “Space is the next place humanity will explore,” he says. “It’s fascinating to me.”

■ extraordinary teens

Tony Madigan

Arlington Tech/Wakefield High School

Perhaps Tony Madigan was destined to become a rower. Both of his parents rowed for the U.S. National Team. His dad, now a coach at Potomac Boat Club in Georgetown, has coached Olympians in the sport.

Madigan was in seventh grade when his parents signed him up for rowing camp. Once he beat his older brother in a race, he was all in, joining the crew teams at Wakefield High School and the Potomac Boat Club. Last year he won the USRowing Men’s Youth Single Na-

tional Championship in Sarasota, Florida. As a member of the U.S. Men’s Junior National Team, he represented the U.S. at the U19 World Rowing Championships in Lithuania, taking fifth place in the men’s single sculls.

He’s not resting on his laurels. “No one ever rows perfectly. There’s always something you can work on to maximize your efficiency and keep getting better,” says the Arlington teen. He practices 3.5 hours a day, five days a week, putting in additional time on Saturdays.

Standing 6-foot-4, Madigan also captained Wakefield’s junior varsity basketball team his freshman and sophomore years. He volunteers as a coach with Arlington Recreational Basketball, is an Eagle Scout and

plays the baritone. (He held first chair in Wakefield’s symphonic band for two years before rowing became a priority.) He rounded out his high school experience by taking dual-enrollment classes (English, television production, government, environmental science) at Northern Virginia Community College through Arlington Tech.

This fall, he’ll be one of eight incoming first-year students on Stanford’s rowing team. An aspiring history or political science major, he was also recruited by Harvard, Brown and Yale, but was drawn to California’s more temperate climate. “I’m tired of cold, tired of water freezing,” he says. “It won’t freeze in the San Francisco Bay.”

Dafnee Marquez Padilla

Arlington Career Center

Dafnee Marquez Padilla knew very little English when she and her family emigrated from El Salvador four years ago. She grew up cooking over a wood fire and washing her clothes in a river.

“When I started high school, I was very unsure of myself,” says the Arlington teen. “I used to be the only student who never talked.”

Today, she’s aiming to study business management in college, having graduated from the Arlington Career Center with a 3.7 GPA. She dreams of becoming an entrepreneur and launching her own clothing line.

As a high school student, Marquez Padilla took dual enrollment classes at Northern Virginia Community College, including calculus, physics and U.S. government. A leader in the Career Center’s JROTC program, she was named 2024 “Student of the Year” by the D.C.-based Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents. The shy girl who never spoke up in class is now a mentor for other English language learners.

Now, whenever she’s invited to speak in front of a group, “I always say yes. I can do presentations without feeling nervous,” she says. “I feel comfortable.”

At 20, Marquez Padilla is older than most recent high school graduates. She arrived in the States having completed high school in El Salvador, but was told she needed to repeat high school in the U.S. for her credits to be accepted for college. At first, she balanced her classes with 40-hour workweeks at a pizza shop. Today she’s working parttime at a café while she applies for college scholarships. She and her family members all have green cards.

Curious by nature, Marquez Padilla took aviation classes at NOVA. She has flown in the cockpit with a flight school instructor and hopes to someday earn her private pilot’s license. “I never imagined myself doing that,” she says, “coming from living in a small place.”

Lucas Jones

McLean High School

Donald Rumsfeld, Jimmy Carter and Beau Biden had one thing in common: They all played sprint football in college. This fall, Lucas Jones will join their ranks as a new recruit at the University of Pennsylvania. Sprint is tackle football designed for a lighter weight class; all players must be under 183 pounds.

Jones, 17, was captain of McLean High School’s football team, a four-year member of its Model U.N. team, and vice president of community outreach for its chapter of DECA, an organization that prepares students for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management.

He also served as president of the Best Buddies club, which matches students with developmental and intellectual disabilities with neurotypical peers. Under his leadership, some meetings drew as many as 80 participants, and the club’s Instagram account accumulated more than 500 followers.

“Growing up biracial in a predominantly white area, I’ve always been big on making sure people who aren’t able to have a voice have one,” Jones says.

The summer before his senior year, he participated in Boys State, a leadership and civics program in which high school students create a mock government that holds elections and passes bills. After campaigning but failing to secure a spot on the Supreme Court, he won a Senate seat and was elected Senate president. Boys State “is the one week where you can reinvent yourself,” a counselor told him. He took that advice to heart.

“His leadership made me passionate about public service,” says the McLean teen. “I want to help pave the way for other people to succeed in life.”

Jones graduated with a 4.34 GPA. He intends to earn a law degree and eventually enter politics. ■

MICHAEL VENTURA

Coming Soon

We will announce this year’s Best of Arlington Survey categories the week of July 6.

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Get ready to vote for your favorite people, places and organizations.

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

•SCHOOL

April’s Most Expensive Home Sales

22201 (Arlington)

907 N. Highland St.

List Price: $3.2 million

Sale Price: $3.14 million

Days on Market: 66

Listing Office: Brock Realty

Neighborhood: Clarendon

Year Built: 2025

Bedrooms: 7

Full/Half Baths: 6/1

22202 (Arlington)

1501 23rd Road S.

List Price: $2.89 million

Sale Price: $3 million

Days on Market: 2

Listing Office: Compass

Neighborhood: Arlington Ridge

Year Built: 2026

Bedrooms: 6

Full/Half Baths: 6/1

22203 (Arlington)

29 N. Oakland St.

List Price: $1.2 million

Sale Price: $1.21 million

Days on Market: 4

Listing Office: TTR Sotheby’s International Realty

Neighborhood: Hunter Oaks Townhouses

Year Built: 1987

Bedrooms: 3

Full/Half Baths: 3/1

22204 (Arlington)

4628 3rd St. S.

List Price: $2.34 million

Sale Price: $2.34 million

Days on Market: 1

Listing Office: D.S.A. Properties & Investments

Neighborhood: Barcroft

Year Built: 2026

This information, courtesy of Bright MLS as of May 20, 2026, includes homes sold in April 2026, excluding sales in which sellers have withheld permission to advertise or promote. Information should be independently verified. The Bright MLS real estate service area spans 40,000 square miles throughout the mid-Atlantic region, including Delaware, Maryland, Washington, D.C., and parts of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. As a leading Multiple Listing Service (MLS), Bright serves approximately 100,000 real estate professionals who in turn serve over 20 million consumers. For more information, visit brightmls.com.

■ prime numbers

Bedrooms: 6

Full/Half Baths: 5/0

22205 (Arlington)

1022 N. Edison St.

List Price: $2.2 million

Sale Price: $2.4 million Days on Market: 6

Listing Office: RLAH @properties

Neighborhood: Lacey Forest Year Built: 2011

Bedrooms: 5

Full/Half Baths: 4/1

22206 (Arlington)

2654 S. Kenmore Court

List Price: $885,000

Sale Price: $933,278

Days on Market: 4

Listing Office: Property Collective

Neighborhood: Shirlington Crest

Year Built: 2008

Bedrooms: 3

Full/Half Baths: 3/1

22207 (Arlington)

4283 38th St. N.

List Price: $3.48 million

Sale Price: $3.25 million Days on Market: 92

Listing Office: TTR Sotheby’s International Realty

Neighborhood: Country Club Hills

Year Built: 2023

Bedrooms: 6

Full/Half Baths: 6/1

22209 (Arlington)

1417 N. Nash St.

List Price: $2.05 million

Sale Price: $2.07 million Days on Market: 7

Listing Office: Compass

Neighborhood: Bromptons at Monument Place

Year Built: 2002

Bedrooms: 3

Full/Half Baths: 3/2

22213 (Arlington)

6613 31st St. N.

List Price: $2.9 million

Sale Price: $2.93 million

Days on Market: 23

Listing Office: Keller Williams Realty

Neighborhood: Berkshire Oakwood

Year Built: 2026

Bedrooms: 7

Full/Half Baths: 7/1

22101 (McLean)

1169 Crest Lane

List Price: $17.5 million

Sale Price: $12.83 million

Days on Market: 449

Listing Office: Washington Fine Properties

Neighborhood: Crest Lane

Year Built: 2013

Bedrooms: 4

Full/Half Baths: 5/1

22102 (McLean)

870 Alvermar Ridge Drive

List Price: $4.45 million

Sale Price: $4.25 million

Days on Market: 1

Listing Office: Compass

Neighborhood: The Reserve

Year Built: 2001

Bedrooms: 5

Full/Half Baths: 4/1

22041 (Falls Church)

5934 Munson Court

List Price: $850,000

Sale Price: $902,005

Days on Market: 2

Listing Office: Corcoran McEnearney

Neighborhood: The Glen of Carlyn

Year Built: 1981

Bedrooms: 3

Full/Half Baths: 3/1

22042 (Falls Church)

3416 Arnold Lane

List Price: $2.25 million

Sale Price: $3.21 million

Days on Market: 0

Listing Office: Samson Properties

Neighborhood: None listed

Year Built: 2025

Bedrooms: 5

Full/Half Baths: 5/1

22043 (Falls Church)

2231 N. Tuckahoe St.

List Price: $3.1 million

Sale Price: $3.18 million

Days on Market: 4

Listing Office: Long & Foster Real Estate

Neighborhood: Westmore Gardens

Year Built: 2026

Bedrooms: 6

Full/Half Baths: 6/1

22044 (Falls Church)

3421 Fiddlers Green

List Price: $1.68 million

Sale Price: $1.71 million

Days on Market: 5

Listing Office: RLAH@properties

Neighborhood: Lake Barcroft

Year Built: 2007

Bedrooms: 5

Full/Half Baths: 3/2

22046 (Falls Church)

6616 Fisher Ave.

List Price: $2.79 million

Sale Price: $2.68 million

Days on Market: 0

Listing Office: Innovation Properties

Neighborhood: None listed

Year Built: 2025

Bedrooms: 7

Full/Half Baths: 7/1

907 N. Highland St., Arlington SALE PRICE: $3.14 MILLION

Real Estate Sales Trends

22201

22206

22202

22207

22203

22209

22204

22213

22205

22102

22041

22042

22043

22044

22101

22046

photo

Mary Pat Collins

Let’s Do Laundry!

A space so fresh that running a load of wash is rather appealing

THE LAUNDRY ROOM at the top of the stairs in Meredith and Jeff Jaeckel’s Arlington home wasn’t much of a looker, with its orange walls, dark floors and cheap bookshelf packed with cleaning supplies. They usually kept the door closed, even though doing so deprived the hallway of natural light from the room’s sunny window.

Wishing for a prettier and more functional solution, the couple called Erica Peale, who had already redone their family room and primary bedroom. “They have two kids, now teenagers, and a lot of laundry,” says the Arlington designer. “She wanted something that felt soft and spa-like.”

Peale’s makeover brought in custom cabinets with plenty of storage space (helpful, as the hallway has no linen closet), along with pull-out drying racks and an integrated ironing board that can be stowed away when not in use. Laundry baskets on rolling casters make sorting lights, darks, sports gear and dry cleaning a breeze.

Porcelain tile flooring and quartz countertops keep it light, and an iridescent penny tile backsplash behind a large utility sink (not shown) provides a little shimmer. “In terms of color, she didn’t want it to read like a baby boy’s room,” Peale says. “The color we chose for the cabinets has just enough gray tones so it feels sophisticated and serene.”

Peale also swapped the room’s solid door for a frosted glass one that allows light into the hallway. But the new space is so lovely that the door is frequently left open.

Luxury Condos, Apartments & Townhomes Showcase

The Project

About Us

Hoffman & Associates and Hoffman Realty unite development and brokerage expertise to create innovative, sustainable communities— delivering transformative residential and mixed-use projects with lasting neighborhood impact.

Now 65% sold and move-in ready, The Oak offers new condominium residences in the heart of West Falls. Thoughtfully designed two- and three-bedroom homes feature open layouts and an array of floorplans created to complement your lifestyle.

At The Oak, everyday living is grounded in community and effortless connection. With direct Metro access via the Orange Line and proximity to major highways, residents enjoy seamless movement throughout the region—whether commuting, exploring, or staying close to home.

To learn more about The Oak, contact Hoffman Realty at 703-977-2985 or visit TheOakWestFalls.com.

Luxury Condos, Apartments & Townhomes Showcase

The Reserve at Falls Church

The Project

About Us

The Reserve at Falls Church is an all-new senior living community dedicated to enriching the lives of older adults through premier environments, thoughtful wellness programs and exclusive amenities.

Opening in early 2027, The Reserve at Falls Church delivers a sophisticated lifestyle for older adults who thrive on community, culture and connection. Six different on-site restaurants and a cocktail bar provide a unique culinary experience, serving chef-prepared cuisine made with locally sourced, organic ingredients. Concierge services, personalized transportation and resort-style amenities like an indoor saltwater pool, smart fitness center, yoga studio and a full-service salon make every day an opportunity to live well. This all-new community is in the West Falls neighborhood of Falls Church, a walkable urban setting filled with shops and restaurants, dynamic open spaces and with easy access to the area’s rich local attractions. The Reserve supports a spectrum of residential options in one location, including Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care, all offered with a convenient rental model and with 24-hour on-site nursing available for Assisted Living and Memory Care.

home plate ■ by

Warren Rojas

Bird is the Word

Picnic season is upon us, and fried chicken, that all-American staple, is here for it. Grab a bucket for your next July 4 shindig, outdoor concert or any old time you don’t feel like turning the oven on. Here are a few choice spots for crispy bone-in breasts, thighs, drumsticks and wings.

SIDE CHICK

This Falls Church side hustle by chef Yuan Tang, coowner of the adjoining (and award-winning) Ellie Bird, spins out one of the most delectable fried chickens around. Even a day later, after being microwaved, the crunchy skin released an audible snap that made this hired mouth smile. Half and whole birds ($18-$33) are cooked to four different spice levels, from plain to “insane hot.” Keep the fireworks rolling with a drizzle of tongue-teasing kimchi honey or a cucumber salad spiked with garlic and Fresno chilies. sidechickva.com

CHARGA

The quarter, half and whole fried chickens ($6-$22) at this no-frills carryout with locations on Columbia Pike and Langston Boulevard are cooked to order and worth the wait. The bird is plump and juicy inside with a crackling skin. Savory sides range from French fries seasoned with spicy masala and freshly baked garlic naan to curried chickpeas and zesty biryani rice. chargagrill.com

MO’S FRIED CHICKEN

Tending to some retail therapy and need dinner licketysplit? This food court all-star at Tysons Corner Center—a spin-off of the food truck by the same name—cranks out lightly breaded, juicy halal chicken in portions for every appetite, from two pieces to a dozen ($9-$35). Just craving wings? Those come in bundles of four to 12 ($8.50 to $22). The house-made hot sauce has a plucky twang with a kick of heat, while a chunkier, creamier dunk veers into Russian dressing territory. @moschickensmash

THE FALLS

The fried chicken platter ($26) at this popular Falls Church haunt includes four pieces of crispy poultry flecked with a mix of herbs and spices, plus hot honey and a zippy, remoulade-like dipping sauce. Pair your protein with globally influenced accompaniments such as smoky shishito peppers, Mexican street corn, beet salad with mint pesto, or sauteed cauliflower tossed with hoisin sauce, pickled Fresno chiles and chopped peanuts. thefallsva.com

Side Chick

Cheers to Chirashi

Good news for beer and sushi lovers: Clarendon’s Oasis: The Listening Bar has rolled out a new menu of lunch combos, including a jewel-toned chirashi bowl flanked by a flight of Joy Boy beers ($35).

Essentially a deconstructed sushi roll, the chirashi ensemble tops fragrant rice with pickled vegetables,

sashimi, nori and roe. It comes with a cup of miso soup bobbing with silken tofu. But my favorite part of the deal is the choose-your-own sampler of house-branded beers from Loudoun County. Oasis co-founder Drew Srirote played a hand in their development, joining Joy Boy founder Ake Charoenphong to craft suds that complement Asian cuisine. (Srirote and his wife, Tammie Disayawathana, also

own several other restaurants, incuding multiple locations of Sisters Thai.) Guests can build a three-part flight, selecting from 10 different Joy Boy brews. The house pilsner is a crisp thirst quencher, while the carameltinted amber lager has a bit more heft. The creamy stout is a full-bodied sipper with hints of bourbon and a chocolatey finish. oasisthelisteningbar.com

Chirashi and beer flight at Oasis

Worth the Squeeze

South Block founder Amir

Mostafavi is pumped for the future. His juice-powered empire turns 15 this summer and is expanding up and down the East Coast.

Walking away from the corporate consulting gig he landed after college may have been the best decision he ever made.

“I was so bored,” he says of the funk he felt while grinding away at an office job in Tysons. The mounting ennui led him to Southern California, and that’s where he fell hard—for juice bars. “I really loved that energy, that vibe, the flavors. And we didn’t have anything like it here,” he says of his proverbial “a-ha” moment.

Upon his return to the DMV, a friend mentioned that a bagel shop had vacated its spot near a gym on George Washington University’s campus in Foggy Bottom. Mostafavi proposed converting it into a coldpressed juice bar. GW administrators liked the idea, and Campus Fresh debuted in 2006.

A few years later, Mostafavi noticed a new development taking shape in Clarendon and fancied it the perfect spot for a spin-off location. “I couldn’t call it Campus Fresh because it was off campus,” he says. “I went to sign the lease and it said, ‘You’re signing a lease in the south block tower.’” With that second location, a new brand name was born.

Arlington soon became Mostafavi’s test market for acai bowls. He’d been captivated by the Brazilian superfood after a traveling salesman—a “surfer dude from San Diego”—offered to make him something during a cold call to Campus Fresh in D.C. “I thought it was amazing,” he says of the antioxidant-rich concoction that inspired South Block’s top-selling Warrior Bowl ($12.49).

Other fan favorites include protein smoothies with creatine; green smoothies that make spinach and kale deliciously sippable; and acai bowls packed with granola, fruit, coconut and add-ins like peanut butter or almond butter. The most expensive menu item, a Dubai choco-

late bowl made with almond milk, bananas, blueberries, strawberries, granola, Nutella, pistachio butter and cacao nibs, tops out at $14.99.

“I think people would riot if we got rid of that one,” he says, crediting his teenage daughters for tuning him into the craze.

Today, South Block has nearly 25 locations, with more in the works courtesy of a newly inked partnership with a hospitality investor. But Mostafavi remains a hands-on guy. He develops every recipe himself, tinkering with new flavor profiles in the company’s commissary kitchen in Falls Church. His social-media-savvy daughters are among his most trusted advisors. “They’re my test market for product development,” he says.

To mark the juice chain’s official anniversary this summer, he’s planning a block party on July 18 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the original Clarendon location at 3011 11th Street North. He’s whipped up a special smoothie for the occasion.

“Think Carvel birthday cake vibes,” he says. “I got my daughters’ stamp of approval on the aesthetics. It’s going to look really cool.” southblock.com

South Block's tropical Mermaid bowl with spirulina

Amir Mostafavi

A French dip sandwich at Stratford Garden

BY WARREN ROJAS

PHOTOS BY DEB LINDSEY

In the Neighborhood

Stratford Garden resurrects an iconic landmark to create a new hangout in The Little City.

“WORD WILL GET AROUND,” a satiated well-wisher assures Arash Tafakor, having just finished her first meal at his family’s new place in Falls Church.

Her manifesting is already ringing true, Tafakor says. A flood of friendly faces has kept the bar and kitchen hopping ever since he and his brother, Afsheen, opened Stratford Garden in December with their mom, Afsaneh Moradian, and business partner David Birks.

The sprawling patio, rotating taps and center-city location are a draw, but so is the eclectic food menu.

Chef Cameron Cousin, an alumnus of The Maple Room in Vienna and the former Mad Fox Brewing Co. in Falls Church, is responsible for the obligatory gourmet cheeseburger and tantalizing seafood tower on offer.

Tafakor is the one who pushed for the surprisingly popular roster of “conservas”—Iberian tinned fish snacks such as oil-packed sardines and stewed

squid. After feasting on them in Spain and Portugal, he noticed D.C. restaurants such as the iconic Old Ebbitt Grill and trendy Osteria Mozza getting in on the action. Intuition prompted him to give the imported delicacies a go at Stratford. They sold out within a week.

Stratford’s tinned seafood boards are served with whipped butter, chopped Fresno chilies, lemon wedges, Maldon sea salt and grilled bread from Lyon Bakery in Hyattsville, Maryland. The anchovy board is bolstered by a grapefruit-size bulb of milky burrata.

Just typing that sentence makes me wish I were back there, composing a mouthwatering bite of salty anchovies draped over crusty, country-style bread with luscious cheese and zesty peppers. Or stacking hearty slabs of preserved tuna belly into a DIY sandwich doctored with the same roasted peppers and a squeeze of lemon. The accompanying butter is fine, but unnecessary

in my opinion. I’d suggest using any remaining bread to swab every last bit of seasoned oil out of those tins. (Or else, what are we even doing here?)

The buzz surrounding Stratford is surely bolstered by the goodwill the Tafakor brothers have built with their two other businesses just up the road. Dominion Wine and Beer, a brew and bottle shop with a second floor restaurant, is already a local go-to, as is the adjacent Brick House Butcher, which stocks premium steaks and chops from local farms. The fact that their newest venture preserves a local landmark—the midcentury Stratford Motor Lodge—is another master stroke.

These days, the newly renovated structure includes a spacious bar, an unfussy dining room with exposed brick and wood accents, a covered patio and sun-splashed beer garden, and a casual café serving coffee, pastries, salads and sandwiches. Guests can make them-

STRATFORD GARDEN

30 W. Broad St., Falls Church, 571-550-9440, stratfordgarden.com

HOURS

Monday through Thursday: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m. to midnight

Sunday: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

PARKING

The restaurant has a dedicated lot with dozens of spaces. Street parking is also available.

PRICES

Appetizers: $12 to $26

Raw bar: $18 to $70

Entrees: $22 to $52

selves at home wherever they choose (bar, high-top, banquette, outdoors) while contemplating a menu with some unexpected twists.

One of Cousin’s biggest swings is house-made gnocchi tossed with three kinds of mushrooms, butternut squash and Parmesan in a savory brown butter sauce. He uses “a ton of ricotta cheese” to make the tender dumplings, piping them directly into boiling water for the first cook, and then frying them to order for spot crisping. The meaty mix

of cremini, shiitake and oyster mushrooms lends an earthiness to the ensemble, which benefits from a bright topping of herby chimichurri.

The chef’s Asian-inspired forbidden rice may be even more ambitious. The nutty grains are tossed with a host of dueling ingredients, including crunchy fava beans (love), fragrant coconut curry (too sweet), diced scallions (aces) and red pepper. The wiggly fried egg on top is a fine addition, although a poached egg would add a more velvety,

runny yolk to the mix. It’s a good dish, but not quite a perfect one. It’s available as a side, or as an entree topped with grilled shrimp.

Other items are hit or miss. A superlative French dip (juicy sliced rib-eye and crunchy fried onions on a cottony roll) trumps a ho-hum fried chicken sandwich that, to me, was no crispier or juicier than others out there.

Pickled onions and tangy yogurt sauce elevate a succulent lamb burger over its beefier counterpart. Ground

Cantabrian anchovies with burrata and peppers

Ricotta gnocchi

pork shines in sliders smeared with shallot jam, but a less satisfying bone-in chop was dried out on the grill and muddled by a cloying maple syrup reduction. Cousin’s menu will change seasonally, and at least one nostalgic addition is in the works. “We actually found the recipe for La Caraqueña’s chicken salad,” Tafakor says, referencing the cult-status arepa joint that previously occupied the motor lodge building.

He discovered the notes for his predecessor’s reina pepiada while watching the 2010 episode of “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” that brought Food Network star Guy Fieri to the area.

Watch for a resurrected version of the beloved arepa stuffed with avocado and shredded chicken, coming soon to the café menu. ■

WHAT TO DRINK

You can’t call yourself a beer garden without free-flowing suds. Co-owner David Birks oversees a rotating list of 16 drafts ($8-$10) that includes domestic brews (Other Half, Sierra Nevada), classic imports (Paulaner, Guinness) and funky sours, including one thirst quencher cut with Japanese tea. Seasonal, house-branded beers produced by Guilford Hall Brewery in Baltimore include a crisp Czech-style lager and a quaffable Vienna lager.

Wines by the glass range from $12 for imported whites (such as Italian Pinot Grigio) and reds (Argentinean Malbec) to $21 for French Champagne (Veuve Clicquot).

The bar offers a few riffs on traditional cocktails ($15-$17), sweetening icy mules with pomegranate, spiking negronis with fig and gilding frothy espresso martinis with chocolate shavings. I wanted the Smokey Dove to pummel me with roasted mezcal, but the spirit’s distinct flavor profile was overpowered by a one-two punch of lime and grapefruit juice. Perhaps a cocktail more suited to citrus lovers.

Forbidden rice with grilled shrimp

places to EAT

ARLINGTON

1983 Chinese Cuisine

1101 S. Joyce St., 703-512-3089, 1983chinese cuisine.com. A destination for dim sum and traditional Cantonese dishes. R L D G V $$

A Modo Mio Pizzeria

5555 Langston Blvd., 703-532-0990, amodomio pizza.com. Dig into authentic Neapolitan pies, house-made gnocchi, lasagna, spaghetti del mare and cannoli. o L D V $$

Aladdin Sweets & Tandoor

5169 Langston Blvd., 703-533-0077, aladdin arlington.com. Chef Shiuli Rashid prepares family recipes from her native Bangladesh. L D $$

Al-Shami Restaurant

5216 Wilson Blvd., 703-373-0291, alshamiva. com. Dig into falafel, shawarma and other Syrian delights. Closed Mondays. L D G V $$

Ambar Clarendon

2901 Wilson Blvd., 703-875-9663, ambarrestau rant.com. Feast on Balkan specialties such as stuffed cabbage, mushroom pilav and rotisserie meats. O R L D G V $$

Andy’s Pizza

901 N. Pollard St. (entrance on Fairfax Drive), 703-552-4037, eatandyspizza.com. Andy Brown’s award-winning thin-crust pies fall somewhere between Neapolitan and New York-style. L D V $

Angolino Pizza

3125 Wilson Blvd., 703-760-3210, pizzaforpizza lovers.com. When it’s late and you need a slice, this Clarendon eatery hits the spot. L D V A $

Arlington Kabob

5046 Langston Blvd., 703-531-1498, arlingtonka bobva.com. Authentic Afghan fare includes kebabs, shawarma and lamb shank with rice. L D $$

Astro Beer Hall

4001 Campbell Ave., 703-664-0744, astrobeer hall.com. Jet to this space-themed brewpub for fried chicken, burgers, doughnuts and a retro basement billiards hall called 1969. o B R L D A $$

Ballston Local

900 N. Glebe Road, 703-852-1260, ballstonlocal. com. Pair your local brew with a plate of poutine or a New York-style pizza. L D V $$

Banditos Tacos & Tequila

1301 S. Joyce St., 571-257-7622, banditostnt.com. Mexican street food, tequila, mezcal and sugar-skull décor keep the party going. o L D G V $$

Bangkok 54

2919 Columbia Pike, 703-521-4070, bangkok54res taurant.com. A favorite for Thai curries, grilled meats, stir-fry, noodles and soups. L D V $$

Bar Bao

3100 Clarendon Blvd., 703-600-0500, barbao-va. com. Trendy takes on Chinese and Taiwanese street food, plus sake, soju, cocktails. L D V $$

Bar Chinois

244 19th Court S., 703-416-6769, barchinoisnl. com. Chinese small plates meet French-inspired cocktails and wine. O D G V $$$

Bar Colline

269 19th Court S., 703-567-4792, barcolline. com. French bistro fare and wine happy hours await. O L D G V $$$

Basic Burger

1101 S. Joyce St., 703-248-9333, basicburger. com. The homegrown eatery cooks with locally sourced, certified Angus beef and cage-free, antibiotic-free chicken. L D $$

Bayou Bakery, Coffee Bar & Eatery 1515 N. Courthouse Road, 703-243-2410, bayou bakeryva.com. Chef David Guas’ NOLA-inspired menu includes beignets and gumbo. Breakfast all day on weekends. O C B R L D G V $

Big Buns Damn Good Burger Co. s 4401 Wilson Blvd., 703-276-3032; 4251 Campbell Ave., 703-933-2867, eatbigbuns.com. Satisfy all your cravings with creative burgers, shakes, beer and booze. B L D $$

Bird’s Eye Thai 1651 Crystal Drive, birdseyethai.com. Order up a round of tiki drinks and khao soi noodles from this outdoor kiosk in National Landing. O L D $$

Bob & Edith’s Diner

2310 Columbia Pike, 703-920-6103; 539 23rd St. S., 703-920-2700; bobandedithsdiner.com. Founded

KEY: Price designations are based on the approximate cost per person for a meal with one drink, tax and tip.

$ under $20

$$ $21-$35

$$$ $36-$70

$$$$ $71 or more

o Outdoor Dining

c Children’s Menu

B Breakfast

R Brunch

L Lunch

D Dinner

A After Hours/Late Night

G Gluten-Free

V Vegetarian

s Best of Arlington 2025 or 2026 Winner

Café Monet

■ places to eat

in 1969, the 24-hour eatery whips up pancakes, eggs, meatloaf, and pie à la mode. C B L D A V $

BOE

2854 Wilson Blvd., 571-312-0130, theboexperi ence.com. Take a ride on the mechanical bull, then reward yourself with a fried chicken biscuit and a beverage. O R D A $$

Bonsai Sushi at Crystal City

553 23rd St. S., 703-553-7723, crystalbonsai sushirestaurant.com. A go-to for sushi, sashimi, yakisoba, tempura, teriyaki. Closed Mondays. L D $$

Bostan Uyghur Cuisine

3911 Langston Blvd., 703-522-3010, bostanuyghur. com. Enjoy kebabs, lagmen (hand-pulled noodles), manta (dumplings) and honey cake. L D $$ Boulevard

2915 Wilson Blvd., 571-583-9778, boulevardva. com. Snack on global plates ranging from lamb bao buns to sushi. The rooftop, called Solset, has light bites and cocktails. O D A G V $$$

Brass Rabbit Public House

1210 N. Garfield St., 703-746-9977, brassrabbit pub.com. Sip craft cocktails like the El Conejo, featuring tequila, carrot juice, ginger, lime and cilantro. O R L D V A $$

Bronson Bierhall

4100 Fairfax Drive, 703-528-1110, bronsonbier hall.com. Find German and regional beers, sausages, schnitzel and cornhole in this 6,000-squarefoot ode to Munich. O L D A $$

Bubbie’s Plant Burgers

1721 Crystal Drive, bubbiesburgers.com. Grab a plant-based or kosher burger and a plate of avocado fries at this outdoor kiosk. O L D V $

Buena Vida

2900 Wilson Blvd., 703-888-1528, buenavida gastrolounge.com. Savor the flavors of Mexico and head to the rooftop for drinks. O R L D $$

Burger Billy’s Joint

3800 Langston Blvd., 703-512-0102, burgerbillys joint.com. Smashburgers made from locally sourced Angus beef (or plant-based), hot dogs, wings and fries. L D V $

Busboys and Poets

4251 S. Campbell Ave., 703-379-9757, busboys andpoets.com. Known for its poetry slams and social justice programming, this bookstore café has an eclectic menu with something for everyone.

O C B R L D G V $$

Café Colline

4536 Langston Blvd., 703-567-6615, cafecolline va.com. The cozy French bistro satisfies with paté maison, duck confit and chocolate pots de creme.

O R L D $$

Café Sazón

4704 Columbia Pike, 703-566-1686, cafesazon. com. A homey Bolivian café specializing in dishes such as silpancho and empanadas. B L D V $$

Call Your Mother Deli

1671 Crystal Drive, 571-867-9983, callyourmother

deli.com. Grab bagels, schmears and latkes from the “Jew-ish” deli’s outdoor kiosk. B R L $

Capital Doner

1731 Wilson Blvd., capitaldoner.com. Try Turkish doner kebab, halal meats and house-made sauces in wraps, platters and rice bowls. B L D A $

Carbonara s

3865 Wilson Blvd., 703-721-3905, carbonarava. com. House-made pastas, eggplant parm, chicken cacciatore and the spirit of Sinatra sing at this modern Italian trattoria. L D V $$$

Caribbean Grill

5183 Langston Blvd., 703-241-8947. Cuban preparations such as jerk-style pork, fried plantains and black bean soup are mainstays. C L D G V $

Carlyle

4000 Campbell Ave., 703-931-0777, greatameri canrestaurants.com/carlyle. A longstanding favorite for fusion fare, happy hour and Sunday brunch. O C R L D G V $$$

The Celtic House Irish Pub & Restaurant 2500 Columbia Pike, 703-746-9644, celtichouse va.com. Pair your pint with corned beef or a traditional Irish breakfast. C R L D A $$

Charga Grill

5151 Langston Blvd., 703-988-6063; 3203 Columbia Pike, 703-574-5050; chargagrill.com. How do you like your chicken? Choose Peruvian, jerk, Tandoori or Pakistani charga or sajii. L D $$

Chiko

4040 Campbell Ave., 571-312-0774, mychiko. com. Fan favorites at this Chinese-Korean joint include cumin lamb stir-fry and double-fried chicken wings. C L D G V $$

Chill Zone Café s

2442 N. Harrison St., 703-270-9466, chillzonecafe. com. Pop in for bubble tea and smoothies, Vietnamese tacos, noodle dishes and a special keto menu. B R L D G V $$

Circa at Clarendon s

3010 Clarendon Blvd., 703-522-3010, circabis tros.com. Bistro fare ranges from salads and small plates to steak frites and wild mushroom pizza. Sit outside if you can. O R L D A G V $$$

Colada Shop

2811 Clarendon Blvd., 571-771-8400; 244 19th Court S., 703-631-5320; coladashop.com. Hit this colorful Caribbean coffee cafe and bar for beachy vibes, tropical drinks and Cuban-inspired eats.

C B R L D V $$

Colony Grill

2800 Clarendon Blvd., 703-682-8300, colonygrill. com. The ultra-thin-crust “bar pies” have a spicy, pepper-infused hot oil topping. L D G V $$

Copperwood Tavern

4021 Campbell Ave., 703-522-8010, copperwood tavern.com. This rustic saloon serves up steaks and chops, draft beers and 30 small-batch whiskeys. O R L D $$$

Corso Italian

4024 Campbell Ave., 703-933-8787, corsoitalian. com. Enjoy fresh pastas, porchetta and veal chop Milanese at this Italian trattoria by Cheesetique “cheese lady” Jill Erber. O r L D V $$$

Cowboy Café s

4792 Langston Blvd., 703-243-8010, thecowboy cafe.com. Cool your heels and fill up on burgers, brisket and chili mac. Live music on weekends. O C R L D V $$

Crush Pizza + Wine

1601 Crystal Drive, crushpizzaandwine.com. New York-style pizza, wines by the glass and patio crushers for the win. O L D V $$

Crystal City Sports Pub

529 23rd St. S., 703-521-8215, ccsportspub.com. Open 365 days a year, it’s a sure bet for game viewing, trivia and poker nights, beers, bar snacks and buffet spreads. C B R L D A G V $$

Crystal Thai

4819 First St. N., 703-522-1311, crystalthai.com.

Maison Cheryl

■ places to eat

A neighborhood fave for Thai curries, grilled meats and house specialties like roast duck. L D V $$

Dama Restaurant & Cafe

1503 Columbia Pike, 703-920-3559, damapas try.com. The Ethiopian family-owned business includes a breakfast café, market and dining room. B L D V $$

Daydrift Books & Café

1550 Crystal Drive, 703-271-0709, daydriftva.com. Tuck into an open-faced sandwich or macro bowl, or sip a latte and peruse the shelves for your next read. B R L G V $$

Delhi Dhaba Indian Restaurant

2424 Wilson Blvd., 703-524-0008, delhidhaba. com. The bargain “mix and match” platter includes tandoori, seafood, a curry dish and a choice of rice or naan. O L D G V $$

Detour Coffee

946 N. Jackson St., 703-988-2378, detourcoffee co.com. This comfy cafe has a college vibe and serves up locally roasted coffee, light bites and weekend brunch. O B R L V $

District Dumplings

923 S. Glebe Road, 571-518-9764, districtdump lings.com. When you’re hungry for Asian-style dumplings, sandwiches and wraps. L D $$

District Taco

5723 Langston Blvd., 703-237-1204; 1500 Wilson Blvd., 571-290-6854; districttaco.com. A local favorite for tacos and gargantuan burritos. C B L D G V $ Don Tito

3165 Wilson Blvd., 703-566-3113, dontitova.com. The sports bar specializes in tacos, tequila and beer, with a rooftop bar. O R L D $$

Dudley’s Sport and Ale

2766 S. Arlington Mill Drive, 571-312-2304, dudleyssportandale.com. A supersize sports bar with a roof deck, a ballpark-inspired beer list and weekend brunch. O C R L D A $$

Earl’s Sandwiches

2605 Wilson Blvd., 703-647-9191, earlsinarling ton.com. Made-to-order sandwiches use prime ingredients like fresh roasted turkey. O B L D G V $ East West Cafe

3101 Wilson Blvd., 571-800-9954, ewcafe.com. Go for espresso drinks, brunch (try the Turkish breakfast spread), sandwiches, beer and wine. B L D $ El Mercat Bar de Tapas

1301 S. Joyce St., 703-567-4369, elmercatbarde tapas.com. Chef George Rodrigues brings Spanish small plates and five kinds of paella to Westpost. R D G V $$$ El Paso Café

4235 N. Pershing Drive, 703-243-9811, elpaso cafeva.com. Big portions, big margaritas and bighearted service. C L D G V $$ El Pike Restobar

4111 Columbia Pike, 703-521-3010, elpikeresto bar.com. Bolivian salteñas stuffed with chicken or beef satisfy at this no-frills eatery. L D $ El Pollo Rico

932 N. Kenmore St., 703-522-3220, elpollorico. com. A local institution prized for its next-level rotisserie chicken. L D V $ El Rey

4201 Wilson Blvd., 571-312-5530, elreyva.com. Down tacos, margs and draft brews with colorful surroundings, inside and out. Visit The Filling Station next door for live music. O L D A $$

Elevation Burger

2447 N. Harrison St., 703-300-9467, elevation burger.com. Organic, grass-fed burgers, fries cooked in olive oil and shakes made with freshscooped ice cream. O L D V $ Eli’s Taqueria 3207 Columbia Pike, 703-663-4777. Dig into beef birria tortas, shrimp tacos and pupusas at this homey spin-off of the Taqueria La Ceibita food truck by Nevi Paredes and his daughter, Yorktown alum Elizabeth Marquez. L D $

Falafel Inc.

1631 Crystal Drive, 500 23rd St. S., falafelinc.org. Fill a pita or bowl with falafel, pickled veggies and your choice of sauces. The eatery donates a portion of its sales to feed refugees. O L D V $

Fat Fish

1641 Crystal Drive, fatfishrolls.com. Grab poke bowls, sushi and bento boxes from this budgetfriendly Water Park kiosk. O L D G $

Fettoosh

5100 Wilson Blvd., 703-527-7710, fettoosh restaurant.com. Pita sandwiches and kebabs keep the kitchen fired up at this bargain-priced Lebanese and Moroccan restaurant. C R L D G V $

Fire Works

2350 Clarendon Blvd., 703-527-8700, fireworks pizza.com. Enjoy wood-fired pizzas and more than 30 craft beers on tap. O C L D A G V $$

First Down Sports Bar & Grill s

4213 Fairfax Drive, 703-465-8888, firstdownsports bar.com. Three cheers for draft beers and 50 kinds of wings. L D A V $$

Four Sisters Grill

3035 Clarendon Blvd., 703-243-9020, foursisters grill.com. A go-to for banh mi sandwiches, papaya salad, spring rolls and noodle dishes. O L D $$

Freddie’s Beach Bar

555 23rd St. S., Arlington, 703-685-0555, fred diesbeachbar.com. Freddie Lutz’s “gay, straightfriendly” hangout is always a party, with flashy drinks, drag bingo and brunch. O R D A V $$

Galaxy Hut

2711 Wilson Blvd., 703-525-8646, galaxyhut.com. Pair craft beers with vegan bar foods like “fricken” sandwiches and smothered tots. L D A G V $$

Gharer Khabar

5157 Langston Blvd., 703-973-2432, gharerkhabar. com. Translated as “home’s food,” this art-filled café serves Bangladeshi fare by chef Nasima Shreen. L D $$

Good Company Doughnuts & Cafe s 672 N. Glebe Road, 703-243-3000; 1350 S. Eads St., 703-894-1002; gocodough.com. The familyowned eatery is revered for its doughnuts, Intelligentsia coffee and cafe fare. B L V $$

Grazie Grazie

4121 Wilson Blvd., 571-216-2999, graziegrazie. com. Give thanks for Italian subs, pizzas, salads and cannoli. L D $

Green Pig Bistro

2900 Wilson Blvd., 703-888-1920, greenpigbistro. com. An Arlington fave for Southern-influenced happy hour and brunch. R L D G V $$$

Guajillo

1727 Wilson Blvd., 703-807-0840, guajillo mexican.com. Mexican faves like carne asada, mole poblano and churros. O C L D G V $$

Guapo’s Restaurant

4028 Campbell Ave., 703-671-1701, guaposres taurant.com. Expect hearty portions of all the TexMex standbys—quesadillas, enchiladas, fajitas, tacos and burritos. O C R L D G V $$

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ

1119 N. Hudson St., 571-527-0445, gyu-kaku.com. Marinated meats, veggies and seafood are cooked on tabletop grills. L D $$

Gyu San

4300 Wilson Blvd., 571-312-7373, gyusan.com. Japanese barbecue, sushi, soba noodles and saki. L D G $$$

Hal & Al’s BBQ

4238 Wilson Blvd., 703-400-8884, halandals bbq.com. There’s no pork on the menu at this halal ’cue joint. Go for beef brisket, turkey sausage or beef “Dino” ribs rubbed with Old Bay. L D $$

Hanabi Ramen

3024 Wilson Blvd., 703-351-1275, hanabiramen usa.com. Slurp multiple variations of the namesake soup. L D $$

Haute Dogs

2910 N. Sycamore St., 703-548-3891, hautedogs andfries.com. Cookout fare goes gourmet with hot dog toppings ranging from banh mi with sriracha mayo to a buffalo dog with blue cheese. L D $

Hawkers Asian Street Food

4201 Wilson Blvd., 703-828-8287, eathawkers. com. Dig into Asian street foods, sake, whiskey and zero-proof quaffs. G V L D $$

Heidelberg Pastry Shoppe s 2150 N. Culpeper St., 703-527-8394, heidelberg bakery.com. A 50-year favorite for cakes, pretzels, bratwurst and German potato salad. B L $

Hot Lola’s s 4238 Wilson Blvd., hotlolas.com. It’s all about Chef Kevin Tien’s Nashville-meets-Sichuan hot chicken sandwiches. L D $

Hyde Social 3100 Clarendon Blvd., 703-647-9342, hyde-social. com. Sports fans unite for pub fare, drinks and trash talk. R L D A G V $$

Idido’s Coffee & Social House 1107 S. Walter Reed Drive, 703-253-1576, ididos socialhouse.com. Devotees go for the pastries, sandwiches and Ethiopian coffee. B L V $

Immigrant Food s 4245 N. Fairfax Drive, 703-203-0337, immigrant food.com. Global dishes from this “gastroadvocacy” kitchen range from Salvadoran pupusas to Filipino fried chicken. O R L D G V $$

Inca Social 1776 Wilson Blvd., 703-488-7640, incasocial.com. Empanadas, saltados, ceviche, sushi and pisco sours round out the menu. R L D G V $$

Ireland’s Four Courts 2051 Wilson Blvd., 703-525-3600, irelandsfour courts.com. Stop in for a pint and an EPL game over an order of fish and chips. C R L D A $$

Istanbul Grill

4617 Wilson Blvd., 571-970-5828, istanbulgrill virginia.com. Feast on Turkish meze and kebabs at this homey spot in Bluemont. L D V $$

The Italian Store s

3123 Langston Blvd., 703-528-6266; 5837 Washington Blvd., 571-341-1080; italianstore.com. A local go-to for pizzas, subs, prepared entrées, espresso and gelato. O L D G V $

Jon’s Joint

250 N. Glebe Road, 202-384-4954. Order halal smashburgers topped with cheese, grilled onions and pickled jalapeños. L D $

Kabob Palace

2315 S. Eads St., 703-486-3535, kabobpalaceusa. com. Open 24 hours, this Crystal City storefront serves grilled halal meats, pillowy naan and savory sides. L D A G V $$

Kaldi’s Social House

3100 10th St. N.; 3639 S. Glebe Road; 571-2131502, kaldissocialhouse.net. The National Landing location serves a creative dinner menu in addition to espresso drinks and brunch. B R L D G V $$

Kanji Izakaya

4301 Fairfax Drive, 703-512-0017, kanjiarlington. com. Dive into teriyaki, ramen, yakitori, hibachi dishes and sushi. L D G $$

Khun Yai Thai

2509 N. Harrison St., 703-536-1643, khunyaithai va.com. Feast on “homestyle Thai” cuisine made with grandma’s recipes. L D G V $$

King of Koshary

5515 Wilson Blvd., 571-317-7925, kingofkoshary. com. Sample the hearty namesake dish or any of the tagines from this Egyptian kitchen. L D G $$ Kusshi

1201 S. Joyce St., 571-777-1998, kusshisushi. com. Treat yourself to sushi bowls, takoyaki, ramen and lychee cosmos. O L D G V $$$

L.A. Bar & Grill

2530 Columbia Pike, 703-685-1560, labargrill.com.

real food. great fun. EXPRESS LUNCH! EXPRESS LUNCH! real food. great fun. EXPRESS LUNCH! EXPRESS LUNCH! real food. great fun. EXPRESS LUNCH! EXPRESS LUNCH! real food. great fun.

EXPRESS LUNCH! EXPRESS LUNCH!

■ places to eat

Regulars flock to this dive bar on the Pike for brews and pub fare. D A $$

La Coop Coffee

4807 First St. N., 571-257-7972, lacoopcoffee. com. Stop in for single-origin Guatemalan coffee, house-made horchata, breakfast sammies, empanadas and ice cream. B L $

La Côte D’Or Café

6876 Langston Blvd., 703-538-3033, lcd6876va. com. This little French bistro serves standards like crepes and steak frites. O R L D G V $$$

Lantern Restaurant and Bar

320 23rd St., S., 571-800-6137, lanternrestaurant andbar.com. Try crispy fish or beef with broccoli from the comfort of a private karaoke room. L D G V $$

La Posada

320 23rd St., S., 703-412-9211, laposadarestaurant. com. Say “olé” to flautas, poblano beef ribs, shrimp saltado, agua fresca and horchata. C L D V $$

Lapu Lapu

1417 S. Fern St., 703-567-4014, lapulapubreak fast.com. Filipino breakfast sandwiches are served on pan de sal buns from sister bakery Gwenie’s Pastries. B R L D V $

Lebanese Taverna

5900 Washington Blvd., 703-241-8681; 1101 S. Joyce St., Pentagon Row, 703-415-8681; lebanese taverna.com. A hometown favorite for shawarma, kebabs, flatbreads and more. O C L D G V $$

The Liberty Tavern 3195 Wilson Blvd., 703-465-9360, thelibertytavern. com. This Clarendon anchor offers a spirited bar and creative cuisine fueled by two wood-burning ovens. O C R L D A G V $$$ Locket

1900 Fort Myer Drive, 703-682-8233, locket rosslyn.com. Tucked inside the Hilton Arlington Rosslyn The Key, this all-day restaurant hits the spot with raw bar, steakhouse-style favorites and brunch. C B R L D G V $$$

Lost Dog Café

5876 Washington Blvd., 703-237-1552, lostdog cafe.com. Known for its pizzas, subs and beer selection, this deli/café supports pet adoption through the Lost Dog and Cat Rescue Foundation. L D G V $$

Lucky Danger

1101 S. Joyce St., Unit B27, luckydanger.co. The Chinese American takeout hits the spot with duck fried rice and lo mein. L D V $$

Lyon Hall s

3100 N. Washington Blvd., 703-741-7636, lyonhall arlington.com. The European-style brasserie turns out French, German and Alsatian-inspired plates, from charcuterie and sausages to moules frites.

O C R L D A V $$$

Maison Cheryl

2900 Wilson Blvd., 703-664-0509, maisoncheryl. com. Try bistro fare such as seared duck breast, ratatouille and strawberry crepe cake. R L D V $$$

Makers Union

1450 S. Eads St., 703-419-3504, makersunionpub. com. Pop in for comfort food, cocktails and live music several nights a week. R L D G V $$

Mala Tang

3434 Washington Blvd., 703-243-2381, mala-tang. com. A fragrant eatery specializing in Sichuan hot pot, dry pot and Chinese street foods.

O L D G V $$

Mario’s Pizza House

3322 Wilson Blvd., 703-525-0222, mariospizza housemenu.com. Open into the wee hours, it’s been cooking up subs, wings and pizza since 1957. O C B L D A $

Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls 4017 Campbell Ave., 571-431-6530, masons lobster.com. Order the namesake crustacean dressed in melted butter or mayo. L D $$

Maya Bistro

5649 Langston Blvd., 703-533-7800, bistromaya.

com. The family-owned restaurant serves Turkish and Mediterranean comfort food. L D V $$

McNamara’s Pub & Restaurant

567 23rd St. S., 703-302-3760, mcnamaraspub. com. Order a Guinness and some fish and chips at this friendly watering hole. O R L D A $$

Meda Coffee & Kitchen

5037 Columbia Pike, 571-312-0599, medacoffee kitchen.com. Find coffee, baked goods and traditional Ethiopian dishes like kitfo and tibs.

C B L D G V $$

Me Jana

2300 Wilson Blvd., 703-465-4440, mejanarestau rant.com. Named for an old Lebanese folk ballad, this Middle Eastern eatery has stood the test of time. O C L D G V $$

Mele Bistro

1723 Wilson Blvd., 703-522-0284, melebistro.com. The farm-to-table Mediterranean kitchen cooks with organic, regional ingredients. O R L D G V $$

Metro 29 Diner

4711 Langston Blvd., 703-528-2464, metro29. com. Classic diner fare includes triple-decker sandwiches, mile-high desserts, burgers and breakfast.

C B R L D V $

Mister Days Sport Rock Café

1101 N. Highland St., 703-986-3335, misterdays usa.com. Happy hour deals and bar munchies provide fuel for game-watching. R D A $

Mpanadas

2602 Columbia Pike, 571-312-0182, mpanadas usa.com. Try barbecue pork and cheeseburger empanadas, birthday cake paletas and java chip macaroons. B L D $

Nam-Viet

1127 N. Hudson St., 703-522-7110, namvietva.com.

The venerable restaurant in what was once Arlington’s “Little Saigon” neighborhood specializes in flavors of Vietnam’s Can Tho region. O L D V $$

Nettie’s Tavern

2854 Wilson Blvd., 571-867-9132, nettiestavern. com. Italy meets Appalachia in bites such as pepperoni rolls, venison meatballs and tiramisu French toast. Sip a Nettie’s Tea made with moonshine, crushed lemon and mint syrup. O R L D A V $$

Nighthawk Pizza

1201 S. Joyce St., nighthawkpizza.com. Visit this brewpub for personal pizzas (both thick and thin crust), beer and smashburgers. L D V $$

NiHao

1550 Crystal Drive, 703-512-4109, nihaoarlington. com. Sichuan small plates by chef Peter Chang include walnut shrimp, spicy dry-fried eggplant, and pork ribs with fries. O L D G V $$

Northside Social Coffee & Wine

3211 Wilson Blvd., 703-465-0145, northsidesocial va.com. The two-story coffee and wine bar with a big patio is always busy...which tells you something. O B L D V $$

Oasis: The Listening Bar

2940 Clarendon Blvd., 703-512-3068, oasisthe listeningbar.com. From the owners of Sisters Thai, a sushi, cocktail and vinyl record bar with a surfer vibe. L D $$

Ocean Shack

2163 N. Glebe Road, 703-488-7161, oceanshack arlington.com. Dig into a seafood boil, a fried oyster basket or an order of fish tacos and pretend you’re at the beach. R L D A $$

Old Dominion Pizza Co.

4514 Langston Blvd., 703-718-6372, olddominion pizza.com. Order thin crust or “grandma style” pies named after local high school mascots. L D G $

Open Road

1201 Wilson Blvd., 703-248-0760, openroadgrill. com. A solid pick for burgers and beers or a proper entrée and a craft cocktail. O L D $$

O’Sullivan’s Irish Pub

3207 Washington Blvd., 703-812-0939, osullivans irishpub.com. You’ll find owner and County Kerry

Taco Bamba

native Karen O’Sullivan behind the bar, pouring pints and cracking jokes. L D A $$

Our Mom Eugenia

4044 Campbell Ave., 571-970-0468, ourmom eugenia.com. This family-owned spot serves legit Greek fare, from saganaki to souvlaki. O L D $$

Padaek

2931 S. Glebe Road, 703-888-2890, padaekdc. com. Chef Seng Luangrath’s celebrated kitchen turns out Lao, Thai and Burmese cuisine—satay, curries and noodle dishes. O L D G V $$

Palette 22

4053 Campbell Ave., 703-746-9007, palette22.com. The Shirlington gallery-café specializes in internationally-inspired small plates. O R L D V $$

Peking Pavilion

2912 N. Sycamore St., 703-237-6868, peking pavilionva.com. Reliable standbys include moo shu pork and beef with broccoli. L D $$

Peruvian Brothers

1450 S. Eads St., 703-625-6473, peruvianbroth ers.com. Dig into chicharron sandwiches, saltados, empanadas, rotisserie chicken and power bowls. L D V $

Peter Chang Arlington

2503-E N. Harrison St., 703-538-6688, peterchang arlington.com. The former Chinese Embassy chef brings his fiery and flavorful Sichuan cooking to the Lee Harrison Shopping Center. C L D $$

Pho 75 s

1721 Wilson Blvd., 703-525-7355, pho75.res taurantwebexpert.com. The piping-hot Vietnamese soup at this local institution is all about fresh ingredients. O L D V $

Pho & Banh Mi Eatery Café

3000 Washington Blvd., 703-489-8212, eatery cafeva.com. Fill up on banh mi, steaming bowls of pho and poke bowls. L D G V $

PhoWheels

1731 Crystal Drive, phowheelsdc.com. The popular food truck serving Vietnamese pho and banh mi has a kiosk at Water Park. O L D G $

Pi BBQ and Bar

420 23rd St. S. 629-899-1318, pibbqbar.peblla. com. Enjoy traditional Korean barbecue, grilled at your table, with all the banchan. L D A $$$ Pie-tanza s

2503-B N. Harrison St., 703-237-0200, pie-tanza. com. Enjoy pizza (including gluten-free options), calzones, lasagna, subs and salads. C L D G V $$

Pines of Florence

2109 N. Pollard St., 703-566-0456, pinesofflor encearlingtonva.com. The classics include linguine with pesto, veal parm and chicken cacciatore, plus housemade pizza and subs. L D V $$ Pink Saffron

1201 S. Joyce St., 571-867-9090, thepinksaffron. com. Minted lamb, tandoori chicken, veggie korma and other Indian favorites. L D G V $$ Pupatella s

5104 Wilson Blvd.; 1621 S. Walter Reed Drive, 571-312-7230, pupatella.com. Enzo and Anastasiya Algarme’s authentic Neapolitan pies are considered among D.C.’s best. O L D V $$

Quarterdeck

1200 Fort Myer Drive, 703-528-2722, quarterdeck arlington.com. This beloved shack has served up steamed crabs for 40 years. O C L D V $$

Queen Mother’s Kitchen

1601 Crystal Drive, 703-997-8474, queenmother cooks.com. Grab a fried chicken sandwich and a side of duck fat fries. O L D $

Quincy Hall

4001 Fairfax Drive, 703-567-4098, quincyhallbar. com. Go for pints, meatballs and New York-style pizza at this spacious beer hall in Ballston. L D $ Quinn’s on the Corner

1776 Wilson Blvd., 703-640-3566, quinnsonthe corner.com. Irish and Belgian favorites such as

mussels, steak frites, and bangers and mash, plus draft beers and a big whiskey list. B R L D A $$

Ragtime

1345 N. Courthouse Road, 703-243-4003, ragtime restaurant.com. Taste the Big Easy in offerings such as jambalaya, catfish and oysters. Sundays bring a waffle and omelet bar. O R L D A V $$

Rasa

2200 Crystal Drive, 703-888-0925, rasagrill.com. Build a bowl with options like basmati rice, chicken tikka, lamb, pickled vegetables, lentils, chutneys and yogurt sauces. O L D G V $

Ravenna Pizza

1500 Wilson Blvd., 571-520-2086, ravennapizza. com. Pop in for Roman-style pizzas, focaccia sandwiches and gelato. L D V $

Ravi Kabob House

350 N. Glebe Road, 703-522-6666; 250 N. Glebe Road, 703-816-0222. Curries, kebabs and spiced veggies keep this café plenty busy. C L D V $$

The Renegade

3100 Clarendon Blvd., 703-468-4652, renegadeva. com. Is it a coffee shop, restaurant, bar or live music venue? All of the above—with snacks ranging from lambchop lollipops to lo mein. B L D A $$

Rien Tong Asian Bistro

3131 Wilson Blvd., 703-243-8388, rientong. com. The large menu includes Thai and Chinese standards, plus sushi. L D V $$

Rocklands Barbeque and Grilling Co. s 3471 Washington Blvd., 703-528-9663, rocklands. com. Owner John Snedden has been slow-cooking barbecue at this Arlington favorite since 1990.

O C L D G V $

Roggenart Bakery, Bistro & Café

4401 Wilson Blvd., 703-721-3182, roggenart.com. Stop in for breakfast, coffee, pastries and sandwiches on house-baked bread. B R L D V $$

Ruffino’s Spaghetti House 4763 Langston Blvd., 703-528-2242, ruffino spaghetti.com. Fill up on classics such as veal Parmigiana and chicken piccata. C L D V $$ RusUz

1000 N. Randolph St., 571-312-4086, rusuz.com. The family-run bistro serves hearty Russian and Uzbek dishes such as borscht, beef stroganoff and plov—a rice pilaf with lamb. L D $$

Ruthie’s All-Day s

3411 Fifth St. S., 703-888-2841, ruthiesallday. com. Chef Matt Hill’s acclaimed “meat and three” serves up wood-smoked proteins with creative sides. Breakfast (with house-made biscuits) offered daily. O B R L D G V $$

Ryu Izakaya

3030 Columbia Pike, 703-399-9052, ryuizakayava. com. A spot on the Pike for sushi, sake and yakitori. L D G $$

Sabores Tapas Bar

2401 Columbia Pike, 571-970-1253, saboresva.com. Dine on ceviche, lomo saltado and classic gambas al ajillo at this tapas bar on the Pike. R L D G V $$

Saigon Noodles & Grill

1800 Wilson Blvd., 703-566-5940, saigonnoodles grill.com. Traditional Vietnamese pho, banh mi and noodle dishes round out the offerings. L D $$

Sakaki Izakaya

3227 Washington Blvd., 703-718-4931, sakaki izakaya.com. Try mini “sushi burgers,” Wagyu fried rice and the dazzling Egg on Egg (king salmon, quail egg, ikura and wasabi soy in a smoking bowl). Closed Tuesdays. L D A G $$

Salt s

1201 Wilson Blvd., 703-875-0491, saltrosslyn.com. The speakeasy-style cocktail bar serves cheese plates and carpaccio alongside sazeracs, old-fashioneds and nouveau craft cocktails. D $$

The Salt Line

4040 Wilson Blvd., 703-566-2075, thesaltline. com. Hit this seafood-centric oyster bar for clam

■ places to eat

chowder, lobster rolls, stuffies, smashburgers and fun cocktails. c O R D $$$

Samuel Beckett’s Irish Gastro Pub

2800 S. Randolph St., 703-379-0122, samuel becketts.com. A modern Irish pub serving Emerald Isle recipes. O C R L D A G V $$

Sawatdee Thai Restaurant 2250 Clarendon Blvd., 703-243-8181, sawatdeeva. com. Craving pad thai or pad prik king? This is the place. L D V $$

Screwtop Wine Bar and Cheese Shop

1025 N. Fillmore St., 703-888-0845, screwtop winebar.com. The congenial wine bar and bottle shop offers tastings, wine classes, and small plates for sharing and pairing. O C R L D G V $$

Seoulspice

1735 N. Lynn St., 703-419-5868, seoulspice.com. Korean fast-casual comfort food, anyone? L D G V $

SER

1110 N. Glebe Road, 703-746-9822, serrestau rant.com. Traditional Spanish and Basque dishes in a colorful, friendly space with outstanding service. O R L D V $$$

Sfoglina Pasta House

1100 Wilson Blvd., sfoglinapasta.com/rosslyn. Fabio Trabocchi’s urbane trattoria serves fresh pasta (you can watch it being made), a “mozzarella bar” and Italian cocktails. O L D V $$$

Silver Diner

4400 Wilson Blvd., 703-812-8600, silverdiner. com. Organic, locally-sourced ingredients make this better (and healthier) than your average diner. O C B R L D A G V $$

The Simple Greek 1731 Wilson Blvd., 703-875-1800, thesimplegreek. com. Find gyros, spanakopita, dolmades and other Greek favorites at this café and catering operation in Colonial Village. O C B L D V $

Simply Banh Mi

801 N. Quincy St., simplybahnmi.com. In addition to its namesake sandwich, the cult-status takeout serves pho and build-your-own rice and vermicelli noodle bowls. L D $

Skydome

300 Army Navy Drive, 703-416-3862. Savor craft cocktails, Mediterranean dishes and views of the D.C. skyline in this revolving hotel restaurant. D G V $$$

Sloppy Mama’s Barbeque

5731 Langston Blvd., 703-269-2718, sloppyma mas.com. Joe Neuman’s barbecue joint offers wood-smoked meats, pimento cheese, hearty sides and banana pudding. O B R L D V $$

Smokecraft Modern Barbecue

1051 N. Highland St., 571-312-8791, smokecraft bbq.com. Every menu item is kissed by smoke, from ribs, crabcakes and spaghetti squash to the chocolate cherry bread pudding. O L D G V $$ Soul Thai Kitchen & Bar 6035 Wilson Blvd., 703-300-9655, soulthaikitchen andbar.com. Curries, noodle dishes and other Thai classics aim to please. L D G V $ Spice Kraft Indian Bistro 1135 N. Highland St., 703-527-5666, spicekraft va.com. This contemporary concept gives Indian classics a modern spin. O L D $$

Spider Kelly’s 3181 Wilson Blvd., 703-312-8888, spiderkellys.com. The “come as you are” bar offers a sizable beer list, creative cocktails, salads, burgers, snacks and breakfast at all hours. C D A G V $$

Stellina Pizzeria

2800 S. Randolph St., 703-962-7884, stellina pizzeria.com. Pay a visit for Neapolitan pies, fried artichokes and a deli counter with house-made pastas, sauces and dolci to take home. O R L D $$

Supreme Hot Pot 2301 Columbia Pike, 571-666-1801, supremehot potva.com. This Pike eatery specializes in Szech-

uan hot pot, skewered meats and a few Cajun seafood dishes. D G $$

Surreal

2117 Crystal Drive, surrealpark.com. Playful dishes range from a foot-long Boomdog to scallops with celery root mezcal “clouds.” O B L D $$ SushiJip

3000 Washington Blvd., 703-243-7799, sushijip. com. A neighborhood spot for sushi, poke bowls, hibachi and ramen. Closed Mondays. L D G V $$ Sushi Rock

1900 Clarendon Blvd., 571-312-8027, sushirockva. com. Sample sushi and beverages named after your favorite artists, from Ozzy to Oasis. D A G V $$ Sushi-Zen Japanese Restaurant s

2457 N. Harrison St., 703-534-6000, sushizen. com. An amicable neighborhood stop for sushi, donburi, tempura and udon. C L D V $$

Taco Bamba

4000 Wilson Blvd., 571-777-1477; 4041 Campbell Ave., 571-257-3030; tacobamba.com. Taco options range from classic carnitas to cheffy creations like the El Rico Pollo, stuffed with chicken, green chili, aji Amarillo aioli and crispy potato. B L D V $

Taco Rock

1501 Wilson Blvd., 571-775-1800, thetacorock. com. This rock-themed taqueria keeps the Micheladas flowing alongside tacos on housemade blue-corn tortillas. B L D V $$

Taqueria el Poblano

2503-A N. Harrison St., 703-237-8250, taqueria poblano.com. Fresh guacamole, fish tacos, margaritas and mole verde transport patrons to the Yucatan. C L D G V $$

Taqueria Xochi

1450 S. Eads St., 571-444-6722, taqueriaxochi. com. Beef birria tacos, crispy stuffed mulitas and other Mexican street foods. D A V $$

Tatte Bakery and Café

2805 Clarendon Blvd., 571-312-8691; 269 19th Court S., 571-357-1470; tattebakery.com. Breakfast sandwiches, tartines, panini, grain bowls, coffee and pastries. O B R L D G V $

Ted’s Bulletin & Sidekick Bakery

4238 Wilson Blvd., 703-848-7580, tedsbulletin. com. Retro comfort food and all-day breakfast with an adjoining bakery. C B R L D G V $$

Texas Jack’s Barbecue

2761 Washington Blvd., 703-875-0477, txjacks.com. Brisket, ribs and pulled pork, plus sides like raw carrot salad and smashed cucumbers. O L D A $$

T.H.A.I. in Shirlington

4209 Campbell Ave., 703-931-3203, thaiinshirling ton.com. Pretty dishes include lemongrass salmon with black sticky rice. O L D G V $$$

Thai Noy

5880 Washington Blvd., 703-534-7474, thainoy.com. Shimmering tapestries and golden Buddhas are the backdrop in this destination for Thai noodles, curries and rice dishes. L D $$

Thai Square

3217 Columbia Pike, 703-685-7040, thaisquare restaurant.com. Enjoy options ranging from crispy squid with basil and roasted duck curry to pig knuckle stew. O L D G V $$

Tiger Dumplings

3225 Washington Blvd., 571-970-4512, tiger dumplings.com. There are dumplings, of course, plus five-spice beef, roast duck and vegan options like tofu skin with peanuts. L D G V $$

Timber Pizza

4238 Wilson Blvd. (Ballston Quarter), 703-5676463, timberpizza.com. Popular pies include the Green Monster (pesto, feta, zucchini, kale) and the Worthy (chicken, barbecue sauce, red onions, apples and cilantro). L D V $$

Tio Pelé

3110 Langston Blvd., 703-721-3377, tiopele.com. A Brazilian-Lebanese charcoal-grilled chicken joint serving whole birds and sandwiches with Middle Eastern sides. L D G $

TNR Cafe

2049 Wilson Blvd., 571-217-0766, tnrcafe.com. When you have a hankering for Peking duck, moo shu chicken, Szechuan beef or bubble tea. L D G V $$

Toby’s Homemade Ice Cream s

5849-A Washington Blvd., 703-536-7000; 510 14th St. S.; tobysicecream.com. Stop in for cups, cones, floats and sundaes. Coffee, pastries and bagels available in the morning. B L D V $

Tony Boloney’s 1700 N. Moore St., 240-913-8300, tonyboloneys. com. Chow on cheesesteaks, Jersey-style thincrust pizzas and mozzarella sticks in three flavors from this counter at Upside on Moore. L D V $

Tortas Y Tacos La Chiquita

2911 Columbia Pike, 571-970-2824; 3811 Fairfax Drive, 703-512-4137; tortasytacoslachiquitadmv. com. The eatery that started as a food truck does tacos and huarache platters right. B L D A $

Trade Roots

5852 Washington Blvd., 571-335-4274, fairtrade roots.com. The Westover gift shop and cafe serves fair-trade coffee, tea, pastries, salads, organic wine and snackable small plates. O B L $

Troy’s Italian Kitchen

2710 Washington Blvd., 703-528-2828, troysitalian kitchen.com. Palak and Neel Vaidya’s mom-andpop serves pizza, pasta and calzones, including a lengthy vegan menu with options like “chicken” tikka masala pizza. L D G V $

Tupelo Honey Café

1616 N. Troy St., 703-253-8140, tupelohoneycafe. com. The Southern fusion menu includes dishes like roasted snapper with sweet potato and farro. C R L D $$

Upside on Moore

1700 N. Moore St., upsideonmoore.com. This food hall above the Rosslyn metro includes DMV concepts Ghostburger, Stellina Pizzeria, Little Tiger Dumplings and Neko Panchi sushi. L D G V $$

Variedades Catrachas Restaurant

3709 Columbia Pike, 703-888-0906, variedades catrachas.com. This homey Honduran eatery is open almost round the clock. B L D A G V $

Wagamama

2950 Clarendon Blvd., 571-901-9242, wagamama. us. Feast on ramen, teppanyaki, rice bowls, bao buns, boba tea and sake cocktails. O L D G V $$

Water Bar

1601 Crystal Drive, nlwaterbar.com. This sleek oyster bar overlooking National Landing’s Water Park serves sharable plates, snacks and proper cocktails. O L D G V $$

Weenie Beenie

2680 Shirlington Road, 703-671-6661, weenie beenie.net. The hot dog stand founded in 1954 is still serving half smokes, bologna-and-egg sandwiches and pancakes. B L D $

Westover Market & Beer Garden

5863 N. Washington Blvd., 703-536-5040, westo vermarketbeergarden.com. It’s a hive for burgers, draft microbrews and live music. O C L D A $$

Westover Taco

5849 Washington Blvd., 703-297-3030, westover taco.com. Tacos, guac, margs and beer keep things casual at this sports bar focusing on women’s sports. L D V A $

Westville

2800 Clarendon Blvd., 703-646-7226, westvillenyc. com. The veg-forward concept out of New York City emphasizes build-your-own dishes, plus cocktails. O B L D G V $$

William Jeffrey’s Tavern

2301 Columbia Pike, 703-746-6333, william jeffreystavern.com. Hit this pub on the Pike for Tuesday night raw bar and bottomless weekend brunch. O C R L D A G V $$

Wiseguy Pizza

1735 N. Lynn St., 703-358-8880; 710 12th St. S., 703-334-9885, wiseguypizza.com. The Sicilian and

New York-style pies range from classic pepperoni to Korean chicken with cabbage. L D G V $

Wonder

1771 N. Pierce St.,wonder.com. Find fast-casual menus by star chefs like Bobby Flay and Marcus Samuelsson at this Rosslyn food hall. L D G V $$

Yayla Bistro

2201 N. Westmoreland St., 703-533-5600, yayla bistro.com. A cozy little spot for Turkish small plates, flatbreads and seafood. Pita wraps available for lunch only. O C L D $$

Yume Sushi

2121 N. Westmoreland St., 703-269-5064, yume sushiva.com. Sushi, omakase and a sake bar with craft cocktails in a stylish setting. L D V G $$$

Yunnan by Potomac

721 15th St., S., 571-699-3935, yunnanby potomac.com. Try rice noodles in bone broth and multiple kinds of bao buns. O R L D $$

Yu Noodles

1515 Wilson Blvd., 703-718-4928, yunoodles arlington.com. Noodles, dumplings, rice dishes and dim sum. L D $

FALLS CHURCH

2941 Restaurant

2941 Fairview Park Drive, 703-270-1500, 2941. com. French chef Bertrand Chemel’s airy sanctuary offers beautifully composed seasonal dishes and expert wine pairings. C L D V $$$$

Al Jazeera

3813-D S. George Mason Drive, 703-379-2733. The top seller at this Yemeni cafe is oven-roasted lamb with yellow rice. L D $$

Anthony’s Restaurant 3000 Annandale Road, 703-532-0100, anthonys restaurantva.com. The family-owned diner serves standbys like spaghetti, pizza, gyros and subs, plus breakfast on weekends. R L D V $$

B Side

8298 Glass Alley (Mosaic), 703-676-3550, bsidecuts.com. Nathan Anda’s charcuterie, smashburgers and beef-fat fries steal the show at this cozy bar. L D $$

Badd Pizza

346 W. Broad St., 703-237-2233, baddpizza.com. Order a Buffalo-style “cup-and-char” pepperoni pie and a Lost Rhino “baddbeer” IPA. L D $$ Balqees Restaurant

5820 Seminary Road, 703-379-0188, balqeesres taurant.com. Lebanese and Yemeni specialties include lamb in saffron rice, saltah (a vegetarian stew) and saffron cake with crème anglaise. O L D V $$ Bamian

5634 Leesburg Pike, 703-820-7880, bamianres taurant.com. Try Afghan standards like palau (lamb with saffron rice) and aushak (scallion dumplings with yogurt, meat sauce and mint). C L D V $$ Caboose Commons

2918 Eskridge Road (Mosaic), 703-663-8833, caboosebrewing.com. The microbrewery has a hopping patio and creative eats, from fried pickles to plant-based buddha bowls. O L D V A $$

Café Kindred

450 N. Washington St., 571-327-2215, cafe kindred.com. Pop in for a yogurt parfait, avocado toast, grilled eggplant sandwich, or an espresso fizz. B R L V $$

Cafe Zevian

700 W. Broad St.,703-712-7012, cafezevian.com. Savor Turkish, Greek and Lebanese influences in mezze, grilled seafood, doner kebab and baklava. O B R L D G V $$

Casa Mariachi

133 E. Annandale Road, casamariachirestaurante. com. All the Tex-Mex favorites—tacos, burritos, fajitas, saltado, guac and margs. B L D $$

Celebrity Delly s

7263-A Arlington Blvd., 703-573-9002, celebrity

deliva.com. Massive corned beef sandwiches and tuna melts satisfy at this New York-style deli founded in 1975. C B L D G V $

Chasin’ Tails

944 W. Broad St., 571-777-9596, chasintailsss. com. The Viet-Cajun menu includes crawfish boils, char-broiled kimchi oysters and scallop crudo with citrus vinaigrette. L D $$

Chay Restaurant

6531 Columbia Pike, 571-378-1771, chayrestau rant.com. Worth the trip for vegetarian hot pot, spring rolls, noodles and other plant-based Viet namese specialties. L D G V $

The Cheese Cartel

922 W. Broad St., 703-547-8083, thecheesecartel. com. Graze on cheese and charcuterie boards with wine pairings. Gluten-free? No problem. L D $$

Clare & Don’s Beach Shack

130 N. Washington St., 703-532-9283, clareand dons.com. Go coastal with fish tacos, margs and live outdoor music. O C L D A G V $$

Colada Shop

2920 District Ave., 703-962-3002, coladashop. com. See Arlington listing. O B R L D V $$

District Dumplings

2985 District Ave. (Mosaic), 703-884-7080, district dumplings.com. See Arlington listing. L D $$

District Taco 5275-C Leesburg Pike, 571-699-0660, district taco.com. See Arlington listing. C B L D G V $

Dogwood Tavern

132 W. Broad St., 703-237-8333, dogwoodtav ern.com. The menu has something for everyone, from jambalaya and burgers to coconut-curry salmon. O C R L D A V $$

Dolan Uyghur

400 S. Maple Ave., 833-693-6526, dolanuyghur. com. Order noodles, kebabs and Uyghur and Dolan specialties such as steamed dumplings stuffed with pumpkin and peppers. O B R L D G V $$

Dominion Wine & Beer

107 Rowell Court, 703-533-3030, dominionwine andbeer.com. Pairings come easy when a café shares its space with a wine and beer shop. Order up a plate of sliders, a cheese board or Dragon shrimp. O R L D V $$

Duangrat’s

5878 Leesburg Pike, 703-820-5775, duangrats. com. A destination for enchanting Thai cuisine since 1987. O R L D V $$

El Tio Tex-Mex Grill

7630 Lee Highway, 703-204-0233, eltiogrill.com. Take the family out for fajitas, enchiladas, lomo saltado, combo plates and margaritas. O L D $$

Elephant Jumps Thai Restaurant 8110-A Arlington Blvd., 703-942-6600, elephant jumps.com. Creative and comforting Thai food in an intimate strip-mall storefront. L D G V $$

Elevation Burger

442 S. Washington St., 703-237-4343, elevation burger.com. See Arlington listing. O L D V $

Ellie Bird s

125 Founders Ave., 703-454-8894, elliebirdva. com. Discover the wonders of chef Yuan Tang’s clever and playful cooking at this award-winning Little City gem. c o R D G V $$$

The Falls Restaurant & Bar

370 W. Broad St., 703-237-8227, thefallsva.com. Dig into crabcakes, brisket, packed salads, pork schnitzel and, during weekend brunch, unlimited small plates. O R L D G V $$$

Fava Pot

7393 Lee Highway, 703-204-0609, favapot.com. The Egyptian eats include stewed fava beans with yogurt and lamb shanks with okra. And oh the bread! B L D G V $$

Fish Taco 930 W. Broad St., 571-531-3920, fishtacoonline. com. Order a marg and the namesake food blackened, beer-battered or grilled. L D G $

Flame Japanese Hibachi

6379 Seven Corners Center, 571-480-5161, flamejapanesehibachi.com. Get fired up for grilled beef, chicken, salmon and tofu, plus sushi, bubble tea and cheesecake smoothies. L D $$

Godfrey’s Bakery & Café

421 W. Broad St., 571-378-1144, godfreysbakery cafe.com. Pop in for pastries, grazing boards, Romanstyle pizza and coffee drinks. B R L D V $$ GrillMarX Steakhouse and Raw Bar

510 S. Washington St., 240-261-7762, gmxfalls church.com. Splurge on prime rib or boneless ribeye with all the sides, plus desserts such as classic cheesecake or a hot fudge sundae. L D G $$$$

Haandi Indian Cuisine

1222 W. Broad St., 703-533-3501, haandi.com. The perfumed kebabs, curries and biryani incorporate northern and southern Indian flavors. L D V G $$

Harvey’s

513 W. Broad St., 540-268-6100, harveysva.com. Chef Thomas Harvey’s homey café does roasted chicken, cheesesteaks, banana splits and other comfort fare with flair. O C B R L D V $$

Hi/Fi Tex-Mex BBQ

8298 Glass Alley, 703-676-3550, hifitexmexbbq. com. Smoked meats, tacos, wings and tequila drinks shine at this spin-off of the original in Del Ray. R D $$

Hong Kong Palace

6387 Seven Corners Center, 703-532-0940, hong kongpalacedelivery.com. This kitchen caters to both ex-pat and American tastes with an enormous menu of options. C L D $$

Hong Kong Pearl Seafood Restaurant 6286 Arlington Blvd., 703-237-1388. Two words: dim sum. L D A V $$

Honoo Ramen Bar

165 W. Falls Station Blvd., 571-866-6540, honoo ramenbar.com. Ramen, skewers, sushi and small plates. O L D G $$ Serving

■ places to eat

Huong Viet

6785 Wilson Blvd., 703-538-7110. Spring rolls, roasted quail and shaky beef are faves at this cash-only Eden Center eatery. C L D G V $$

Ireland’s Four Provinces

105 W. Broad St., 703-534-8999, 4psva.com. A tavern in the heart of Falls Church City serving pub food and Irish specialties to the tune of occasional Irish music sessions. O C B R L D $$

Jinya Ramen Bar

2911 District Ave. (Mosaic), 571-327-2256, jinyaramenbar.com. Embellish your tonkotsu or umami-miso broth with more than a dozen toppings and add-ins. O L D A g V $$

JV’s Restaurant

6666 Arlington Blvd., 703-241-9504, jvsrestaurant. com. The best kind of dive bar, it’s known for live music, cold beer and meatloaf. L D A V $$ Lantern House Viet Bistro

1067 West Broad St., 703-268-2878, lantern houseva.com. Head out for Vietnamese pho, noodles and banh mi. L D G V $$

Lazy Mike’s Delicatessen 7049 Leesburg Pike, 703-532-5299, lazymikes deli.com. A Falls Church institution churning out homemade ice cream, packed deli sandwiches and breakfast classics. O C B R L D G V $

La Tingeria

626 S. Washington St., 571-316-6715. David Peña’s queso birria tacos are a must. Open Wednesday-Sunday. L D $

Little Beast

119 E. Broad St., littlebeastbistro.com. This monster-themed spot for Detroit-style pizza, meatballs and ricotta doughnuts is beloved by kids and has a martini bar for grown-ups. O C D V $$

Little Falls Cafe s

106 Little Falls St., @littlefallscafe. From the founders of Pupatella pizzeria, a charming creperie serving both sweet and savory renditions of the beloved French pancakes. O B R L V $$

Little Saigon Restaurant

6218-B Wilson Blvd., 703-536-2633, littlesaigon restaurant.us. Authentic Vietnamese in a comfortable setting with retro photo collages. O L D $$ Loving Hut

2842 Rogers Drive, 703-942-5622; lovinghut fallschurch.com. The vegan eats include rice vermicelli with barbecued soy protein and clay pot rice with vegan “ham.” L D G V $$

Mark’s Duck House

6184-A Arlington Blvd., 703-532-2125. Though named for its specialty—Peking duck—it also offers tantalizing options such as short ribs, roasted pork and dim sum. R L D A V $$

Meaza Restaurant

5700 Columbia Pike, 703-820-2870, meazares taurant.com. Seasoned legumes and marinated beef served with injera bread are signatures in this Ethiopian banquet hall. O C L D G V $$ Met Khao

6395 Seven Corners Center, 703-533-9480, padaekdc.com. Chef Seng Luangrath’s fast-casual eatery serves Thai and Laotian fare. L D G V $ MQR Cafe

6343 Columbia Pike, 571-378-1012, mqrcafe. com. Find cardamom lattes, kunafa French toast, harissa burgers and chicken shawarma sandwiches at this halal café. B R L D G V $

My Home Thai Bistro

1009 W. Broad St., 571-899-5055, myhomethai fallschurch.com. Enjoy Thai curries, noodles and rice dishes in a whimsical dining room. C L D G V $$ Naja Mediterranean

2911 District Ave., 571-430-3650, najamediter ranean.com. Stop in for shawarma, falafel and other Lebanese favorites. O C LD V $$ Nhu Lan Sandwich 6763 Wilson Blvd., 703-532-9009, nhulancafe.

com. This tiny Vietnamese deli at Eden Center is a favorite for banh mi sandwiches. L D V $

Northside Social Falls Church s 205 Park Ave., 703-992-8650, northsidesocial va.com. Come by in the morning for breakfast and a latte. Return in the evening for wine and a plate of charcuterie, or a full dinner. O B L D V $$ Nue s

944 W. Broad St., 571-777-9599, nuevietnamese. com. The Viet-modern menu has dazzling cocktails and a stunning space to match. R L D G v $$$

Open Road

8100 Lee Highway, 571-395-4400, openroadmerri field.com. See Arlington listing. O C R L D $$ The Original Pancake House

7395-M Lee Highway, 703-698-6292, ophrestau rants.com. Sate those breakfast cravings with pancakes, waffles and French toast. C B R G V $

Our Mom Eugenia

2985 District Ave. (Mosaic District), 434-3394019, ourmomeugenia.com. See Arlington listing. O L D $$

Panjshir Restaurant

114 E. Fairfax St., 703-536-4566, panjshirrestau rant.com. Carnivores go for the kebabs, but the vegetarian chalows elevate pumpkin, eggplant and spinach to new levels. O L D V $$

Peking Gourmet Inn

6029 Leesburg Pike, 703-671-8088, pekinggour met.com. It’s all about the crispy Peking duck at this famed local institution. C L D G V $$ Pho 88

232 W. Broad St., 703-533-8233, pho88va.com. Vietnamese pho is the main attraction. L D $$ Pho Ga Vang

6767 Wilson Blvd., 571-375-8281, phogavang. com. Slurp more than 12 kinds of pho, plus other Vietnamese homestyle dishes. L D G $$ Plaka Grill

1216 W. Broad St., 703-639-0161, plakagrill.com. Pop in for dolmas, souvlaki, moussaka, spanakopita and roasted chicken. C L D V $$ Pop-Up District

6763 Wilson Blvd., pop-updistrict.com. Hit this pan-Asian food hall inside the Eden Center for Thai street food, Korean bulgogi bowls, Hong Kong egg tarts, matcha drinks and cocktails. L D G V A $

Preservation Biscuit

102 E. Fairfax St., 571-378-1757, preservation biscuit.com. Order the signature carb with housemade jams, or as a sandwich with fillers ranging from fried chicken to guac and egg. O C B L V $

Pupuseria La Familiar

308 S. Washington St., 703-995-2528, pupuseria lafamiliar.com. Salvadoran pupusas, fried yucca, chicharron, carne asada and horchata. L D $$

Puzukan Tan

8114 Arlington Blvd., 571-395-4727, puzukantan. com. From brothers Sam and Kibum Kim comes this Korean barbecue destination featuring dryaged meats, banchan and ramen. O L D $$$

Raaga Restaurant

5872 Leesburg Pike, 703-998-7000, raagarestau rant.com. Go out for chicken tikka, lamb rogan josh, toothsome samosas and cardamom-infused desserts. O L D G V $$

Rare Bird Coffee Roasters

230 W. Broad St., 571-314-1711, rarebirdcoffee. com. This charming Little City café roasts its own beans and makes an artful latte. L D $

Rice Paper/Taste of Vietnam

6775 Wilson Blvd., 703-538-3888, ricepapertasteofvietnam.com. Settle in at this Eden Center mainstay for a combo platter of pork, seafood and beef with rice-paper wraps and herbs. L D G V $$

Roll Play

944 W. Broad St., 571-777-9983, rollplaygrill. com. Grab Viet street foods such as banh mi, pho and build-your-own rice paper rolls. L D G V $$

Semicolon Cafe

103 Founders Ave., 703-995-0970, semicoloncafe. com. Treat yourself to an egg or bulgogi sandwich on brioche and Korean shaved ice in flavors such as matcha with cheesecake or black sesame. B L $

Seoul Prime Korean Steakhouse

106 Founders Ave., 703-563-1168, seoulprime. com. The temptations include galbi-jjim risotto with braised short ribs, Korean wheat noodles, soju cocktails and prime cuts of beef cooked on a tabletop grill. R D $$$

SeoulSpice

156 W. Falls Station Blvd., seoulspice.com. See Arlington listing. L D G V $

Sfizi Café

800 W. Broad St., 703-533-1191, sfizi.com. A family-owned trattoria, deli and wine shop serving classic Italian fare—pasta, pizza, parm. L D $$

Side Chick

125 Founders Ave., Falls Church, sidechickva.com. Ellie Bird chef Yuan Tang has a side hustle serving fried chicken and creative sides for carryout. D $$

Silver Diner

8150 Porter Road, 703-204-0812, silverdiner.com. See Arlington listing. C B R L D A G V $$

Sisters Thai

2985 District Ave. (Mosaic), 703-280-0429, sistersthai.com. The menu is traditionally Thai, but the vibe feels like you’re dining in your friend’s eclectic living room. L D G V $$

Solace Outpost s

444 W. Broad St., 571-378-1469, solaceoutpost. com. This Little City microbrewery serves housebrewed suds, fried chicken, five kinds of fries and wood-fired pizza. D A V $$

Spacebar

709 W. Broad St., 703-992-0777, spcbr.com. This diminutive and funky bar, a sister to Galaxy Hut in Arlington, offers 24 craft beers on tap and 18 variations on the grilled cheese sandwich. D A V $$

Stratford Garden

300 W. Broad St., 571-550-9440, stratfordgarden. com. A neighborhood hub for draft brews, wine pairings, cocktails and creative eats, with a dogfriendly beer garden. O C B R L D $$$

Sweetwater Tavern

3066 Gatehouse Plaza, 703-645-8100, great americanrestaurants.com. This modern alehouse serves seafood, chicken, ribs, microbrews and growlers to go. C L D G $$$

Taco Bamba s

2190 Pimmit Drive, 703-639-0505, tacobamba. com. Tacos range from traditional carne asada to the vegan “Iron Mike,” stuffed with cauliflower, salsa ma and mole verde. B L D $

Taco Rock

1116 W. Broad St., 703-760-3141, thetacorock. com. See Arlington listing. o B L D V $$

Taco Zocalo

6343 Columbia Pike, 571-376-3859, zocalotaco. com. Chow down on tacos, chimichangas, quesadillas and burrito bowls. O L D $

Takumi Sushi

310-B S. Washington St., 703-241-1128, takumi va.com. The sushi and sashimi in this snug little izakaya go beyond basic. L D V $$

Tatte Bakery and Café

1001 W. Broad St., 703-270-9922, tattebakery. com. See Arlington listing. O B R L D G V $

Thompson Italian

124 N. Washington St., 703-269-0893, thompson italian.com. Gabe and Katherine Thompson’s celebrated kitchen turns out house-made pastas, inspiring small plates and some of the best desserts around. O C D $$$

Trio Grill

8100 Lee Highway, 703-992-9200, triomerrifield. com. When you’re hankering for steaks, seafood, craft cocktails and live piano music. O D $$$

MCLEAN

Agora Tysons

7911 Westpark Drive, 703-663-8737, agoratysons. com. Turkish, Greek and Lebanese small plates, plus a bottomless brunch. R L D G V $$$

Amoo’s Restaurant

6271 Old Dominion Drive, 703-448-8500, amoos restaurant.com. The flavorful kebabs and Persian stews are crowd pleasers. O C L D G V $$

Andy’s Pizza

2001 International Drive, 3rd floor food court, Tysons, 703-775-2212, eatandyspizza.com. See Arlington listing. L D V $

Aracosia

1381 Beverly Road, 703-269-3820, aracosia mclean.com. Fall in love with Afghan specialties such as braised lamb shank and roasted eggplant with saffron rice. O L D V $$

ArTeA

6635 Old Dominion Drive, 703-469-9898, artea mclean.com. Stop in for bubble tea, open-face sandwiches, pretty desserts or a “high tea dinner” with cocktails. Closed Mondays. R L D $$

Badd Pizza

6263 Old Dominion Drive, 703-356-2233, badd pizza.com. See Falls Church listing. L D $$

Big Buns Damn Good Burger Co. s 1340 Chain Bridge Road, 571-456-1640, eatbig buns.com. See Arlington listing. L D $$

Café Monet

6910 Fleetwood Road, 703-356-6722, cafemonet mpa.com. Tucked inside the atrium of the McLean Project for the Arts’ Berlage Center, this bistro serves everything from lemon ricotta pancakes to steak frites and branzino. C R L D G V $$

Café Tatti French Bistro

6627 Old Dominion Drive, 703-790-5164, cafe tatti.com. A romantic little bistro whipping up classic French and continental fare. Closed Sundays. L D G V $$$

Call Your Mother Lil’ Deli

6216 Old Dominion Drive, 571-395-9097, callyour motherdeli.com. See Arlington listing. o b R L V $

Capri Ristorante Italiano

6825-K Redmond Drive, 703-288-4601, capri mcleanva.com. Known for tried-and-true dishes like spaghetti carbonara and veal Marsala. O C L D G V $$$

Chao Ban

2001 International Drive, 571-378-1687, eatchao ban.com. From award-winning chef Kevin Tien (Moon Rabbit, Hot Lola’s), a food court counter dishing up brisket pho, catfish bánh mì and Impossible dumplings. L D V $

Churasuko

1755 Tysons Central St., 757-755-3265, chura suko.com. Special occasion? Indulge in raw bar, sashimi and wagyu steak at this Brazilian-Japanese steakhouse concept. L D $$$$

Circa

1675 Silver Hill Drive, 571-419-6272, circabistros. com. See Arlington listing. O L D V $$$

Él Bebe

8354 Broad St., 571-378-0171, el-bebe.com. Spice things up with tamales, tacos, street corn, mole and tequila-based cocktails. C O L D V $$

El Tio Tex-Mex Grill

1433 Center St., 703-790-1910, eltiogrill.com. See Falls Church listing. L D $$

Esaan Tumbar

1307 Old Chain Bridge Road, 703-288-3901, esaanmclean.com. Feel the heat in northern Thai dishes such as larb and nam tok. L D $$

Fava Pot

1624 Boro Place, 202-821-9171, favapot.com. See Falls Church listing. L D G V $$

Founding Farmers

1800 Tysons Blvd., wearefoundingfarmers.com.

The spacious farm-to-table restaurant features Virginia-sourced dishes and drinks. B R L D $$$

Han Palace

7900 Westpark Drive, 571-378-0162, hanpalace dimsum.com. Visit this all-day dim-sum emporium for made-to-order buns, dumplings, crepes, roast duck and noodles. L D $$

J. Gilbert’s

6930 Old Dominion Drive, 703-893-1034, jgil berts.com. Everything you’d expect in a steakhouse and lots of it—prime cuts of beef, lobster, wedge salad, steak-cut fries and cheesecake.

C R L D G V $$$

Joon/MayBar

8045 Leesburg Pike, 571-378-1390, eatjoon.com. Savor refined Persian dishes such as lamb-pistachio meatballs with pomegranate glaze and duck with sour-cherry rice. The casual bar area offers more affordably priced small plates, sandwiches and clever cocktails. O L D G V $$$$

Kazan Restaurant

6813 Redmond Drive, 703-734-1960, kazanrestau rant.com. A McLean fixture since 1980, it’s a go-to for kebabs, baklava and Turkish coffee. L D V $$

Lebanese Taverna

1840 International Drive, 703-847-5244, lebanesetaverna.com. See Arlington listing.

O C L D G V $$

Lost Dog Café

1690-A Anderson Road, 703-356-5678, lostdog cafe.com. See Arlington listing. L D $$

Luna Hall

8201 Greensboro Drive, 571-378-1672, lunahall group.com. Dumplings, sushi, bubble tea, Korean fried chicken and fluffy cloud cakes round out the choices at this pan-Asian food hall. B L D G V $

Maman Joon

1408 Chain Bridge Road, 571-342-4838, maman joonkitchen.com. Find dolmeh, falafel, lamb shank and kebabs (plus a built-in Z Burger with shakes in 75 flavors) at this Persian eatery. L D V $$

Masala Indian Cuisine

1394 Chain Bridge Road,703-462-9699, masa lava.com. Order Nepalese dumplings, tandoori biryani and Indian curries. L D V $$

McLean Family Restaurant

1321 Chain Bridge Road, 703-356-9883, themcleanfamilyrestaurant.com. Pancakes, gyros and big plates of lasagna hit the spot. Breakfast is served until 3 p.m. daily. C B L D V $$

Miyagi Restaurant

6719 Curran St., 703-893-0116. The diminutive sushi bar gets high marks for its friendly service and fresh maki and nigiri. L D $$

Modan

1788 Chain Bridge Road, 703-743-6600, modan restaurant.com. Splurge on a 15-course omakase, Wagyu beef or caviar service at this upscale Japanese izakaya. D G $$$$

Mylo’s Grill

6238 Old Dominion Drive, 703-533-5880, mylos grill.com. Enjoy spanakopita, souvlaki and American classics like burgers and cheesesteaks. Friday is prime-rib night. O R L D $$

Neutral Ground Bar + Kitchen s 6641 Old Dominion Drive, 703-992-9095, neutral groundbarandkitchen.com. Chef David Guas is serving up whole branzino, fried quail, pork chops and a weekend jazz brunch. O r D G V $$$

Ometeo

1640 Capital One Drive N., 703-748-7170, ometeo texmex.com. An upscale “texmexeria” with Mexican renditions of duck, venison, beef and a wide variety of sea creatures. O L D G $$$

Pasa-Thai Restaurant

1315 Old Chain Bridge Road, 703-442-0090, pasa thaimclean.com. Tuck into a classic curry or fried rockfish with chili-basil-garlic sauce. O L D $$

Patsy’s American 8051 Leesburg Pike (Tysons), 703-552-5100, pat sysamerican.com. The menu features greatest

hits from other Great American Restaurants. O C R L D A G V $$

Peter Chang McLean

6715 Lowell Ave., 571-405-6686, peterchang mclean.com. See Arlington listing. L D G V $$

Pikoteo

6811 Elm St., 703-891-0123, pikoteo-usa.com. Escape to warmer climes with ceviche, arepas, mofongo and fruity drinks at this Caribbean-infused cafe. O R L D $$

Pulcinella Italian Kitchen 1310 Chain Bridge Road, 703-893-7777, pulcinellarestaurant.com. A stop for spaghetti and meatballs, linguine and clams and wood-fired pizza since 1985. L D $$

Randy’s Prime Seafood & Steaks 8051 Leesburg Pike (Tysons), 703-552-5110, randysprime.com. Save room for prime cuts of beef, duck-fat fries, seafood towers and massive slabs of chocolate cake. L D G $$$$

Rocco’s Italian 1357 Chain Bridge Road, 703-821-3736, roccos italian.com. The Juliano family makes everything in-house, including minestrone, pizza, calzones, subs, pasta and cannoli. O C L D G $$

Roots Café 8100 Old Dominion Drive, 703-712-7850, roots mclean.com. A pretty daytime spot for sandwiches, salads and espresso drinks. B L G V $

Silver Diner 8101 Fletcher St., 703-821-5666, silverdiner.com. See Arlington listing. C B R L D A G V $$

Simply Fresh 6811 Elm St., 703-821-1869, simplyfreshva. com. A local favorite for pulled pork, chicken and brisket, Greek diner fare, family-style takeout meals and breakfast. O C B L D G V $

Sisters Thai 7735 Capital One Tower Road, sistersthai.com. See Falls Church listing. L D G V $$

Sorn Thai Restaurant & Bar 6224 Old Dominion Drive, 703-564-0630, sorn thaiva.com. Taste the rainbow in pineapple fried rice, Khao Soi noodles and grilled lobster with curry sauce. O R L D G V $$

Stellina Pizzeria

1610 Capital One Drive, stellinapizzeria.com. See Arlington listing. R d V $$

Sunday Morning Bakehouse 1796 Chain Bridge Road, 571-378-0148, sunday morningbakehouse.com. Artisanal pastries, all-day breakfast, sourdough toasts, coffee and weekend cocktails. B R L V $$

Sushi Umi 7599 Colshire Drive, 571-378-0903, sushiumiva. com. In addition to sushi, try broiled unagi with omelet or Wagyu beef over fried rice. L D $$

Tachibana 6715 Lowell Ave., 703-847-1771, tachibana.us. Discover stellar sushi, teriyaki, tempura and chef’s specials. C L D $$

Timber Pizza 8100 Old Dominion Drive, 703-564-0023, timber pizza.com. See Arlington listing. L D V $$

Town Kitchen & Bar

6671 Old Dominion Drive, 703-963-7880, townmclean.com. The American standards include steak, wings, hot-honey chicken and chocolate cake. L D V $$

Umai Ramen and Donburi

1500 Cornerside Blvd., 703-546-2465, umai tysonsva.com. This Japanese and Thai kitchen serves 10 types of ramen and six versions of curry rice. L D G V $$

Wren

1825 Capitol One Drive S., wrentysons.com. Helmed by chef Yo Matsuzaki, this sleek restaurants is known for creative Japanese American fare, stupendous cocktails and sweeping skyline views. O D G V $$$

Carole Sugarman

Back for the Encore

From glory days to ghost town, Asbury Park, N.J., makes a cool comeback.

BY CAROLE SUGARMAN

AFTER A ROLLER-COASTER history, the seaside city of Asbury Park, N.J. is back on top. And my extended family was along for much of the ride.

My father grew up there, and as a teenager in the 1940s worked summers at Palace Amusements, next door to my grandparents’ luncheonette. With a starting salary of 25 cents an hour, he ran the penny arcade, graduating to jobs at the Ferris wheel, magic carpet ride and fun house. He knew and loved the city inside and out.

I was born in nearby Neptune Township, and although we moved to Philadel-

phia when I was 3, my childhood summers and holidays were spent visiting relatives in Asbury. We’d play hours of Skee-Ball, jump waves in the ocean and eat fried clam strips at Howard Johnson’s.

Fast-forward several decades to a weekend last summer when my two brothers and I headed to Jersey. Much has changed in Asbury since we were kids. Together, we experienced its revival as a hip, walkable beach town with hopping music venues, good restaurants and breweries, and a lovely boardwalk. In short, we had a blast.

Founded in 1871 by James A. Bradley,

a New York City brush manufacturer who named it after Methodist Bishop Francis Asbury, the city would flourish. Broad tree-lined avenues, grand hotels, amusement pavilions, and three pretty lakes made it an appealing summer sojourn. On the boardwalk, elegantly dressed women strolled with their parasols past the majestic Casino and Convention Hall complexes, both built in the late 1920s and designed by the architects of New York City’s Grand Central Terminal.

By the 1970s, however, Asbury Park became a decaying ghost town due to a host of factors, including civil unrest,

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mismanaged city government, crime, drug trafficking and the transfer of patients from state psychiatric hospitals to the city’s boarding houses. The growth of shopping and entertainment destinations in the suburbs also drew visitors away.

The city experienced an urban renewal about 20 years ago, jump-started by the region’s gay population. Pricey condos and renovated Victorians replaced the grand old hotels. The historic Steinbach department store—where Grandma used to buy our birthday gifts (and which closed in 1979)—now is home to businesses such as the Asbury Ale House, with loft-style apartments above. The HoJo’s has been transformed into The Robinson Ale House, serving fresh littleneck clams, not the fried ones. Asbury Lanes, where we used to go on rainy days, has become a cool concert venue with a modern on-site diner serving boozy shakes, though you can still go bowling, as six lanes remain.

Stone Pony, the launch pad for Springsteen and bands such as Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes, which is alive and well after 52 years in business.

Some things have stayed the same. Madam Marie’s, the longtime fortune teller booth on the boardwalk, endures. Starting in 1932 until her death in 2008, Marie Castello was a psychic fixture, befriending a young Bruce Springsteen who would later immortalize her in his song “4th of July, Asbury Park (Sandy).”

We stopped by to find Sabrina Castello, Marie’s granddaughter, holding court inside the same small booth. We passed on the palm reading, despite assurances from Castello that patrons come back to confirm her predictions. (According to the condolences Springsteen wrote on his website after her death, Marie had predicted that his future looked pretty good.)

Speaking of the Boss, die-hard fans may want to drop by Frank’s Deli & Restaurant, the diner that opened in 1960 where scenes for the 2025 movie Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere were filmed. And, of course, there’s The

The Stone Pony may be Asbury’s most well-known club, but there’s live music to be found in a handful of other venues, not to mention gigs in restaurants, hotels, parks and on rooftops. The crowning glory is the Sea.Hear. Now Festival, an annual two-day music, art and surfing fest. This year, the oceanfront event will feature more than 25 bands on Sept. 19 and 20.

Asbury has been a serious music mecca from its earliest days. Ragtime, gospel, jazz, and rhythm and blues took hold in the city’s Black community, with homegrown talent and well-known performers such as Count Basie and Billie Holiday performing in clubs on the West Side. A major effort has been underway, through organizations such as the Asbury Park African-American Music Project, to preserve and revitalize this rich legacy—including the ongoing renovation of Springwood Avenue’s historic Turf Club. In the meantime, the AP-AMP holds free summer concerts at Blackbird Community Commons.

Palace Amusements, where Dad worked long ago and where we’d go as kids to collide on the bumper cars, is gone. The complex, built in 1888, was

Beachside dining at the Asbury Park Convention Hall

The Stone Pony

demolished in 2004, and Tillie, the creepy-to-me fun house face that famously identified the building, was put in storage. Today, a Tillie replica graces the exterior of the Wonder Bar, a live music venue near the boardwalk with a doggie “yappy hour.”

The Beaux Arts Casino is now just a shell, but we were happy to see the beautiful carousel building intact, albeit empty. The Wooden Walls Public Art Project, a collection of striking murals created by local, national and international artists, adds brightness to Casino area structures and to the Sunset Pavilion on the north end of the boardwalk.

Speaking of which, there are many nice eateries and shops on the boardwalk, along with still unrealized potential. Boardwalk development rights belong to one company, which has come under fire by city officials and others for falling short on its obligations to develop and maintain the historic properties. The Casino, Paramount Theatre and Convention Hall exhibition center all remain closed due to structural and safety concerns.

Still, Dad would be overjoyed at the mammoth progress. An eternal optimist, he’d often say “someday it’ll come back,” even during Asbury’s darkest times. Dad, you were so right.

If You Go

Things to Do

With its music scene and eclectic sensibility, Asbury Park is a draw for teenagers and adults alike. By day, the wide beach (passes required) attracts families. And while there are no rides or amusements on the boardwalk, there’s a splash park, mini-golf, a small beach playground, and the must-visit Silverball Retro Arcade, with more than 150 pinball machines and other games, including Skee-Ball. Off the boardwalk, kids will love to ride on a swan-shaped pedal boat on Wesley Lake, a pastime that has thankfully been restored.

Rockers of all ages should head for the Transparent Clinch Gallery, a combination art gallery, store and pop-up music venue. Showcasing the decades-long work of photographer Danny Clinch, it contains wall-to-wall shots of dozens of his subjects, ranging from Springsteen to Bob Dylan, Brandi Carlile, the Foo Fighters, the Beastie Boys and many more. The small gallery also hosts periodic performances with touring and local artists, and famous past subjects are sometimes known to just drop by. A couple of weeks before we visited, Jackson Browne sang “Running on Empty” for the nine people in the gallery at the time.

For literary and history buffs, Asbury Park’s Stephen Crane House offers a

peek into the rebellious and bohemian author of The Red Badge of Courage, who lived there for part of his short life. Built in 1878, the home—on the National Register of Historic Places—also houses the headquarters of the Asbury Park Historical Society, to which my brother Joe donated more than 2,000 of Dad’s vintage Asbury Park postcards in 2013. They’re apparently in storage, but you can explore other displays about the city, such as dramatic photos of the SS Morro Castle, the luxury cruise ship that tragically caught fire off the New Jersey coast on its way from Havana to New York in 1934. It eventually beached next to Asbury’s Convention Hall.

Cookman Avenue offers a funky mix of independently owned clothing and furniture shops, a couple of souvenir venues, art galleries, and a packed antiques emporium. Don’t miss Paranormal Books & Curiosities,where the extensive reading material is organized by topic—afterlife, miracles, dreams, divination, etc. The shop also houses The Paranormal Museum, which can be toured by appointment only. You can sign up for a ghost tour, too.

On the boardwalk, the arcade area in Convention Hall now houses tchotchke vendors (think “Born to Run” sweatshirts for toddlers), a coffee shop, seafood restaurant and gelato parlor.

The boardwalk’s Silverball Retro Arcade

n driving range

Where to Eat, Drink & Stay

For downtown eating, the area around Cookman and Bangs Avenues is filled with options. Cardinal Provisions serves a near perfect version of home fries, and dog lovers will delight in the dachshund-shaped salt and pepper shakers. Toast is a perennial brunch and lunch favorite, offering everything from carrot cake pancakes to whipped ricotta toast. For pizza, visit cozy Talula’s, which uses a sourdough starter for its crusts, or Catbird, which is not downtown, but overlooks delightful Deal Lake.

As for the boardwalk, an enclave of eateries owned by McLoone’s Restaurants, a New Jersey group founded by musician, philanthropist and sportsman Tim McLoone, dominates the Fifth Avenue Pavilion. The casual Iron Whale and The Robinson Ale House are two good bets with something-for-everyone menus, and for Mediterranean chic, McLoone’s newest restaurant, AP Rooftop on the third floor, has a great view and vibe. Also on that third-floor beach and boardwalk overlook: the Arthur Pryor Bandshell, which stages summertime concerts.

Another newcomer getting a big buzz is Judy’s, opened in 2025 in the boutique St. Laurent Social Club. Helmed by Top Chef competitor and four-time James Beard nominee David Viana and his business partner, Neilly Robinson, Judy’s— named after Robinson’s mother—is Italian with some Jewish genes (e.g. ricotta matzo ball soup with dill pistou). Even a simple lunchtime salad with grilled shrimp was terrific.

For grab-and-go sweets, Confections of a Rockstar, opened by a female former drummer, makes a gigantic iced cinnamon roll and a soft chocolate chip cookie that three can share. At Cookman Creamery, get the lemon poppy seed ice cream if it’s available; brother Joe is still dreaming about the citrusy treat.

My brother Steve would point you toward late afternoon at the Asbury Park Brewery, where you can enjoy a refreshing Blonde lager or Sea Dragon IPA in a cool, low-key setting, before the evening bands and crowds arrive. The Asbury

Park Distilling Co., the city’s first and only distillery since Prohibition, operates a small tasting room and produces artisanal spirits including espresso limoncello and an amaretto-like liqueur the company calls Pisam.

Asbury Park has some distinctive high-end hotels. You’ll find Beaux Arts charm, many amenities, and a guest history that includes Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra and Judy Garland, at the Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel, opened in 1925. For a smaller hotel, also with a history, the boutique St. Laurent Social Club, operating as an inn since 1886, offers a casual but chic stay. Located on a quiet residential street, the walk-up has 20 rooms, each with a customdesigned bed that folds up and reveals

a couch underneath. The first level is home to a handsome bar called Harry’s, a fabulous restaurant (see Judy’s, above) and outdoor pool.

Hipsters will love The Asbury, with its lobby bar/live music venue, rooftop cantina, rooftop movies, pool parties and Scandinavian-style accommodations, including rooms with bunk beds. The sophisticated Asbury Ocean Club Hotel, tucked inside the 17-story Asbury Ocean Club residences, offers 54 rooms on the fourth floor. Hotel guests and residents share use of the facilities, including a restaurant, spa, fitness center, pool, and terrace overlooking the ocean. ■

Carole Sugarman is a longtime writer living in Chevy Chase, Maryland, who still loves to play Skee-Ball.

A sandwich at Talula’s Sea and sand

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Find Your Way to Santa Fe

It’s easy to get swept up in this New Mexico city’s magical food, art and cultural scene.

SANTA FE, nicknamed “The City Different,” is a fascinating mash-up of Native American, Spanish and AngloAmerican influences. This is America’s oldest state capital and a UNESCO Creative Cities destination known for its art, culture and spectacular food. Counterintuitive as it may seem, summer is a great time to visit this desert locale. The humidity pales in comparison to Washington, D.C., and the higher elevation (7,000+ feet above sea level) keeps things comfortable. July temps are generally in the low- to

mid-80s, with nights dropping to the mid-50s—so definitely pack a sweater, hydrate often and bring sunscreen, as the altitude and sun hit harder here.

Santa Fe’s stark beauty comes by way of its rugged landscape, desert flora, and streets and alleyways lined with historic Pueblo-style architecture. The city is home to more than 250 galleries and well over two dozen museums, including several dedicated to Native American art.

Non-stop flights from both Dulles (United Airlines) and BWI (Southwest

Airlines) will get you to Albuquerque International Sunport in under four hours. From there, it’s a scenic 90-minute train ride north to the Santa Fe Depot Rail Runner Station, or you can rent a car and take in the mythical southwestern scenery at your own pace.

If chilies are your love language, Santa Fe is a forkful of heaven. “Red or green?” (as in which sauce do you prefer) is one of the first questions asked by waitstaff, and “Christmas” (mean-

EAT

ing both) is always an option.

Start your weekend with a beer at Santa Fe Brewing Co.’s Brakeroom (santafebrewing.com), an indoor-outdoor brewpub with an old-timey saloon vibe. Hit the on-site orange food truck, Bang Bite Filling Station, for mouthwatering smashburgers topped with hatch green chilis, melted Mexican cheese and a slathering of greenchili mayo. The brewery’s hop-forward Happy Camper IPA and Nut Brown Ale make nice burger pairings.

Come the dinner hour, Market Steer Steakhouse ( marketsteersteakhouse. com ) is a sleek spot for carnivores. Chef Kathleen Crook’s upscale menu is designed with cowboy-size fun in mind, featuring dishes such as roasted bone marrow and crispy onion rings served on a branding iron. The locally sourced beef comes in many forms, from filet mignon with béarnaise to a rough-andrugged ribeye cap.

Palace ( palacesf.com ) is a shared plates restaurant from chef Angel Franco, a former D.C. resident who trained under celebrity chef José Andrés at Minibar and did stints at Compass Rose and Maketto before making his way to Santa Fe to cook dishes inspired by his native Puerto Rico.

Topping the list of dining darlings is The Compound (compoundrestaurant. com), winner of the 2024 James Beard Foundation Award for “Outstanding Restaurant in America.” Located along leafy Canyon Road, this upscale spot is helmed by chef Mark Kiffin, whose European-style dishes range from chicken schnitzel to lobster bucatini and scallop crudo.

Santa Fe really shines at breakfast, and no visit is complete without a stop at Tia Sophia’s ( facebook.com/tiaso phias), a beloved diner known for its Christmas breakfast burritos topped with red and green chili sauce. Visit Iconik Coffee Roasters (iconikcoffee. com) for a horchata-style latte and a plate of avocado toast.

Palace restaurant

Iconik Coffee Roasters

Market Steer Steakhouse

STAY

The City Different is extremely walkable, with several hotels located within a five-block radius of the historic Santa Fe Plaza. This is where Native American vendors set up shop daily, selling turquoise jewelry, beaded necklaces, and unique arts and crafts. For creative inspiration, book a stay at the Palace Modern Hotel (palace

modern.com), a boutique hotel occupying a historic boarding house, with an art gallery tucked inside its lobby. The hotel offers suite-style lodging with Western-themed decor at a budget-conscious price, with rates starting as low as $185 per night in July. A contactless check-in experience means plenty of flexibility for early arrivals and late departures.

Prefer an upscale stay in the heart of the city? The five-star Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi ( rosewoodhotels. com) is where you’ll find cozy in-room fireplaces, hand- carved wooden doors, airy balconies and pampered perks like in-room massages, plus a free SUVshuttle service to points around town. Summer rates start at $800 per night.

If a tranquil sojourn with mountain views is more your speed, escape to the desert for a luxurious experience at Bishop’s Lodge, Auberge Collection (auberge.com/bishops-lodge). Situated on 317 acres, this iconic ranch resort is prized for its rustic adobe architecture, casita-style accommodations (starting at $705 per night) and serene spa, as well as family-friendly perks such as “kids-eat-free” meals, spacious rooms (with the option of adding extra beds) and temperaturecontrolled pools. Visit the Basecamp adventure center to plan a hike or book a trail ride on horseback. Other daily activities include morning pinon burns, yoga, sound baths and silversmithing workshops.

The Santa Fe Opera

Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi

PLAY

Long a destination for art and music, Santa Fe truly heats up in summertime with immersive citywide celebrations and performances. Ever seen an opera outdoors? The Santa Fe Opera (santa feopera.org) summer season runs from July 3 to August 29, with performances of Madame Butterfly and The Magic Flute in an outdoor amphitheater carved into the Sangre de Cristo mountains. This unique natural formation enhances the acoustics of every note sung.

This year marks the 26th anniversary of Art Santa Fe (artsantafe.com), a grand festival showcasing visual works from around the world, including interactive installations, landscape paintings, sculptures and portraits at the Santa Fe Community Convention Center. The 2026 event runs July 9-11. Alternately, you might plan your own art crawl, hitting several downtown museums and galleries located only a few blocks from each other, including The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum

(okeeffemuseum.org) SITE Santa Fe (site santafe.org), Art Vault (artvault.thoma foundation.org) and Blue Rain Gallery (blueraingallery.com). Find inspiration— and perhaps a new acquisition—in bold and colorful works by regional artists. For a trippy, interactive art experience, a visit to Meow Wolf (meowwolf. com) is a must. This maximalist attraction is designed with a choose-yourown funhouse theme, transporting visitors of all ages from the everyday world into a colorful, surrealist fantasy. ■

Meow Wolf Santa Fe

Pueblo-style architecture

Georgia O’Keeffe museum

SITE Santa Fe

back

Kim O’Connell

Making a Splash

This champion swimmer won medals and accolades in Arlington and beyond.

SYNCHRONIZED SWIMMER

Candy

Heulitt was a teenager when her coach, Muriel Parry, asked her to work with a nice woman at their pool. It was the early 1970s, and the pool was the Northern Virginia Aquatic Club, a former recreation facility in Arlington’s Cherrydale neighborhood.

The woman was interested in learning some “water ballet,” as they called the sport (it’s now referred to as “artistic swimming”). Over the next few months, Heulitt taught her eager protege several signature moves, which she picked up fairly easily.

Sometime later, Heulitt attended an athletic awards ceremony at Langley High School in McLean and was stunned to discover that the evening’s keynote speaker—Olympic swimmer Shelley Mann—was the same woman she’d been coaching at the pool. Mann had never once mentioned the two medals she’d earned at the 1956 Olympics in Melbourne, Australia.

Born in New York City in 1937, Mann moved to Arlington with her family as a young girl. When she was six, polio paralyzed her right leg, raising concerns that she might never walk again. Physical therapy eventually restored her

mobility, but swimming is how she built her strength and confidence.

By age 10, Mann had joined the Walter Reed Swim Club at Walter Reed Hospital, where her father, a U.S. Naval officer, was stationed. Later, in between attending dances and football games at Washington-Lee High School (now Washington-Liberty), Mann racked up several national and North American competitive titles before qualifying for the U.S. Olympic team.

She was 19 when she won gold in Melbourne and set a world record in the 100-meter butterfly, followed by a silver in the 100-meter freestyle relay. (The current reigning Olympic champion in the women’s 100-meter butterfly

is another Arlingtonian, Torri Huske.)

Upon her triumphant return, Mann received a ceremonial key to the city from the D.C. government, and was honored at a celebration at W-L. In the years that followed, she taught swimming to both children and adults.

When asked about her teaching philosophy, she deflected from herself. “The teaching is not the thing,” she told The Washington Post in 1965. “It is the learning which is important.”

Mann died in 2005 and is buried in a family plot in Staunton, Virginia. “She was patient with me, and I was patient with her,” recalls Heulitt, who now lives in Arkansas. “I’m so glad I knew her.” ■

Shelley Mann in the 1950s

Shelley Mann with then-Vice President Richard Nixon in 1955

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