Haymarket Gainesville Lifestyle Magazine June 2026

New farmers market brings health and good taste to Gainesville

Try this surprisingly easy Italian dish From Grass Roots to the Gateway

East Coast flavors come to Virginia Gateway

Art VanGo moves into Haymarket Museum

Stronger starts here.

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When Food & Community Collide

This month’s issue seems to be all about food. At least that’s what I thought. However, in writing this foreword, I realized it wasn’t just about the food. It is about food and community, and how the two come together.

That is because behind every great restaurant, farmers market or any business are the people who make it tick. In writing articles for this issue, I was able to “double-click on” the people behind the food and businesses. What are their origin stories, and how will they provide us with new options? Read about the new restaurants coming to Virginia Gateway this summer on Page 14.

Another story that seems to be about food, but touches on the heart of the community is that about Gainesville Central Farm Markets. Owner Mitch Berliner is experienced at bringing farmers markets to urban and suburban areas, making them places that bring people together.

And the Linton Hall area needs that. The magazine tends

HAYMARKET / GAINESVILLE LIFESTYLE

The Haymarket/Gainesville Lifestyle Magazine is published monthly and distributed to over 15,000 selected addresses. While reasonable care is taken with all material submitted to The Haymarket/Gainesville Lifestyle Magazine, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage to any such material. Opinions expressed in articles are strictly those of the authors. While ensuring that all published information is accurate, the publisher cannot be held responsible for any mistakes or omissions. Reproduction in whole or part of any of the text, illustration, or photograph is strictly forbidden. ©2026 Rappahannock Media LLC.

to focus on Haymarket where the community is part of the infrastructure. However, everyone yearns for community. It’s ironic that a shopping center that replaced old farms would ultimately bring us a farmers market as a gathering place. Read about Gainesville Central Farm Market on Page 22.

But, before you head to the market, check out our summer recipe for fettuccine alfredo with asparagus and bacon, brought to you by local chef Asha Clare. It’s on Page 28.

We also wanted to highlight Art VanGo’s move into the Haymarket Museum. Art instructor Dawn Quill named her studio based upon the fact that it was mobile. Now located in the heart of Haymarket, Art VanGo is still meeting the people where they are; however,

“The Studio,” as it’s called, has become a more permanent fixture in the community. Find out more on Page 10.

Speaking of restaurants, businesses, community and the like, please nominate and vote in our “Best Of Haymarket/ Gainesville” contest for 2026. If you feel passionate about the businesses, people and organizations in our area, then take this simple step to show your support. You can vote once per day per category. Scan this QR code and share the link.

Until next time. Stay cool out there and stay connected.

PUBLISHER

Dennis Brack

dennis@whglifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Stacy Shaw

stacy@whglifestyle.com

ART DIRECTOR

Kara Thorpe

kara@whglifestyle.com

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Dr. Anna Green Hand & Upper Extremity

Dr. Scott Koenig Hip & Knee Replacement

Dr. Miguel Pelton Sports Medicine

Dr. Robert Smith Sports Medicine

Dr. James Ward Sports Medicine

Dr. Louis Magdon Spine Surgery

Dr. Daniel Heller Pain Management

Dr. Michael Poss Pain Management

Stressed About Summer?

Savory and Surprisingly Easy Fettuccine alfredo with asparagus & bacon recipe

The highest-priced homes recently sold in Haymarket and Gainesville

PW Digital Gateway; Amazon data centers, and local in NFL draft

Riley Deveraux, featured in the May issue (“Leader for Tomorrow: Battlefield teen went from acting locally to leading globally”), is 18 years old and a graduating senior in Battlefield High School’s class of 2026. Her age and grade level were incorrect in that article.

to do list

Show your enthusiasm

There are so many spectacular events to see this summer from stage shows to craft shows, fireworks and even polo matches. There’s even the opportunity to see the world’s largest bounce house. Better jump on that.

THEATRICAL SHOWS

The ARTfactory presents Disney’s “Newsies,” the high-energy Broadway Musical, inspired by the true story of the 1899 Newsboys Strike in New York City, celebrates youth and collective action with thrilling choreography and rousing anthems. Various dates June 5-21 at Hylton Performing Arts Center, Manassas. $35.

Triune Entertainment’s "TICK, TICK... BOOM!" an autobiographical musical by Jonathan Larson, the Pulitzer Prize- and Tony Award-winning composer of “Rent,” features a powerhouse cast and strong pop/ rock singers. Runs June 19-28 in Warrenton. $22.

ARTfactory’s Pied Piper Theatre’s Disney’s “The Lion King JR” young actors’ production brings the story of Simba to life complete with unforgettable songs and vibrant costumes. Performances are June 26-28 at the Hylton Performing Arts Center in Manassas . $20.

CAR AND CRAFT SHOWS

June Bloom Market, the inaugural market showcasing Virginia-based creatives and artisans, debuts Saturday, June 13, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at Virginia Gateway in Gainesville. This free event features fine art, pottery, jewelry, textiles, food, live music and a Kid Zone.

Kena Hot Rod Car ClubAntique Show features antique cars, hot rods and chrome in Manassas, The family-friendly event, Saturday, June 20, starting at 9 a.m. , supports Shriners Children. $15.

EQUESTRIAN EVENTS

2026 Polo in the Park, at Morven Park International Equestrian Center, features two arena polo matches most Saturday evenings in June and July, showcasing nationally and internationally recognized players. Tickets start at $45.

Inaugural Four Nations Cup Polo Tournament Feat. USA x Argentina x Pakistan x UK is an international polo tournament uniting sport, diplomacy and luxury. The event includes gourmet hospitality and refined fieldside tailgating. Sunday, June 14, 10 a.m. , at Great Meadow, The Plains. $60 for general admission.

TIME TO BOUNCE

Get ready for The Big Bounce America, a 50,000-square-foot inflatable adventure with the World’s Largest Bounce House, a 900foot obstacle course and live DJs. Runs June 6-14, at Bull Run Regional Park. $35.

INDEPENDENCE DAY EVENTS

Celebrate America (Manassas), one of the area’s largest Fourth of July events, takes place Saturday, July 4, 3-10 p.m. in Historic Downtown Manassas. The free event features food, rides, inflatables and entertainment. The spectacular fireworks display is scheduled to light up the sky at 9:15 p.m.

The Big Boom 4th of July is a grand celebration befitting the 250th anniversary of American independence. It features live music, the Flying Circus Air Show, a spectacular drone show and a dazzling fireworks display, plus food, tailgating and a Kids Fun Zone. Saturday, July 4, 4-10 p.m. at Great Meadow, The Plains. $60 per vehicle.

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A Collaborative Art Space

Mobile studio settles into Haymarket Museum

BY STACY SHAW

On the day of the reopening of the Haymarket Farmers Market in April, families also could get creative at the Haymarket Museum. Inside the historic little schoolhouse, children aged 2 to 13 sat in small chairs, busily coloring re-usable canvas bags to use at the market.

One might mistake it for an Crossroads Arts Alliance event, as the local arts nonprofit recently occupied the building, but inside, the schoolhouse had a glow-up. The colors were brighter and more playful, and the door mural on the back wall read, “Art for All.”

This January, Haymarket Town Council leased the Haymarket Museum to Dawn Quill, 42, of Haymarket, a trained artist, educator and small business owner. She made it the semi-permanent home for her art school, establishing Arts VanGo:The Studio.

As the name implies, Arts VanGo is a mobile art studio. Quill holds classes, camps and parties in homes, businesses and coffee houses. However, she thought there was no better place than the Haymarket Museum on Washington Street to house The Studio.

“There’s nothing like it in the area. It’s an inclusive community space,” Quill said.

The town council envisioned a popup gallery, hosting a rotation of artists. Quill persuaded its members that if she leased the property, she would make The Studio responsive to the town. “We wanted to create a welcoming

Arts VanGo’s upcoming free community events

Sunday, June 14

- “Meet Us at the Market” Fathers Day themed artmaking activity.

Thursday, June 18 - Open Government Day, at the Haymarket Town Hall with a Touch-a-Truck experience, tiedye crafts, story time and more.

Sunday, June 28Open Studio event for artists of all ages and abilities.

The Studio offers a diverse schedule of classes including Mini-me and little artist classes for parents and toddlers

A variety of art classes for K-12 students, including STEAM-based classes

Introductory and advanced classes for older teens

Adaptive art classes for those with cognitive disabilities

During the summer, Art VanGo also offers five-day-long half day classes for children.

environment where the local community can explore, create and connect outside of a formal school setting,” Quill said.

The art instructor believes art should be “project-based, rather than product-based” and was eager to host free activities that aligned town celebrations. Hosting The Stu-

dio’s grand opening on the same morning as the return of the Haymarket Farmers Market resulted in a steady stream of foot traffic.

To create The Studio’s up-beat atmosphere, Quill commissioned Meghan Bogue of Whole Heart Mural to draw the wall mural, and guests partook in painting it.

Your child was born with curiosity. Now is the best time to nurture it.

“I wanted to be a part of Dawn’s vision for creating an inclusive art space centered around the idea of ‘Art for All,” said Bogue, who lives in Haymarket. “She has such an amazing heart and big plans to build the kind of warm, welcoming art community that I have always hoped to see in Haymar-

ket. It felt really meaningful to contribute to something that brings people together through creativity. It was inspiring to see everyone, from young children to grandparents, painting different parts of the mural together.”

Quill, who previously worked at the

THE

Smithsonian as well as an elementary art and preschool teacher, has mainly directed her classes and camps toward children, with the occasional adult class.

“I was born an art educator,” she writes on her website. “From a very young age, I realized the power and my love of art, and became fixated on sharing it with my community.”

Inside The Studio on that April morning, children were engrossed in their masterpieces while their parents chatted with Quill. She explained her various classes and camp offerings for summer for children of various ages, levels and abilities. Arts VanGo’s motto is, “we meet artists exactly where they are.”

Arts VanGo is no longer always on the road, but, situated in the heart of Haymarket, it is literally still meeting people where they are. L

Arts VanGo The Studio 15025 Washington St., Haymarket artsvango.com

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East Coast Flavor

Virginia Gateway expands its culinary scene

BY STACY SHAW

Having grown up in Northern New Jersey, when I return home to visit my family, going to Italian restaurants, bagel delis and seafood restaurants are a big part of the experience.

The New York metro area and the East Coast in general have arguably the best food in the nation. That is why when I heard that many of the new restaurants coming to Gaines ville were ones that reminded me of home, I was pretty excited.

Gainesville is welcoming at least a dozen new restaurants this year, with several set to open in the Virginia Gateway shopping center this summer. In just the next three months Virginia Gateway is expected to welcome the following fine and fast casual restaurants:

McAlister’s Deli, a southern-style sandwich shop

Frye’s Famous Crab Cake Co., a locally owned crab house

Carbonara, an authentic Italian restaurant

Call Your Mother, a “Jew-ish” deli that opened in May

Mike Ennes, senior vice president of asset management at Federal Re alty, which owns the center, believes

the new restaurants fit well with its character and status as a suburban shopping and dining destination.

“Since acquiring Virginia Gateway in 2024, we have been intentional in curating a best‑in‑class mix of retail, dining and services that elevates the overall experience,” said Ennes. “The new restaurant additions respond to robust visitor demand and deepen the center’s culinary and experiential breadth.”

Asking around, it is clear that even restaurant owners are excited to dine at other new establishments.

“I can’t wait for Carbonara to come,” said Brandon Frye, owner and operator of Frye’s Famous Crab Cakes.

“That is the one I’m most excited about. And I know the Great Amer ican Restaurants are coming [to the area]. I’m pumped about that too.”

Speaking of Great American Restaurants, you may be asking why we excluded other restaurants com ing to Virginia Gateway and nearby, such as Silver Diner and Best Buns Bakery & Burgers?

That is no oversight. This is only the first installment of our restaurant feature. We plan to continue spot lighting restaurants opening in the summer and fall.

Cheers to a summer of food and fun in the neighborhood.

In addition to bagels, Call Your Mother serves breakfast burritos, challah-based sandwiches and deli staples such as matzo ball soup and latkes. Salads, pickles and sides rotate seasonally, and many locations offer local pastries and desserts. Coffee and espresso drinks are also a major draw, with beans sourced from quality roasters to complement the bakery menu.

Call Your Mother Deli

Bagel shop and Jewish-style deli Open at Virginia Gateway

Call Your Mother Deli is a family owned “Jew ish” style deli that opened on Atlas Walk Way in Virginia Gateway in early May to much fanfare and a line outside the building. Its menu is built around hand rolled, wood fired bagels that come in a variety of flavors, including everything, sesame, za’atar and seasonal specials. But the deli also blends traditional bagel shop staples with modern, fun and creative twists.

What?

Call Your Mother Deli Who?

Daniela Moreira and Andrew Dana, of Washington, owners Where?

7372 Atlas Walk Way at Virginia Gateway When?

Open now Info: callyourmotherdeli.com

Call Your Mother subverts expectations with its beachy positive vibe aesthetic and an eclec tic menu that includes unexpected dishes like hummus and avocado with shredded carrots, pickled veggies and crisp chickpeas on rye.

The shop got its start in Washington, when owners Daniela Moreira and Andrew Dana began their journey at farmers markets. After opening the flagship shop in 2018, they launched several additional locations through out the Washington region as well as in Denver.

When deciding where to open their next location, Dana said they reached out to cus tomers via Instagram, and Gainesville received an overwhelming response.

“We’ve always said our mantra is we’ll take bagels to the people who want bagels,” Dana told InsideNoVa. “Gainesville was reaching out saying, ‘We want bagels,’ and it looked cute and looked fun, so we're doing it.”

Weeks after opening, the bagel shop is still experiencing a constant flow of traffic.

“It’s really good,” said Matt Harless of Bristow, who was enjoying lunch at Call Your Mother on a Friday in mid May.

“It’s amazing. I think this is one of the only bagel places around here,” said Matt’s wife, Bianca. She is from New York and accustomed to a bagel deli on every corner. “I also love the colors. My favorite color is pink, and with the pink and yellow; it’s just so bright and welcoming.”

The article includes excerpts from an InsideNoVa news article by Cameron Delean.

and Sandwich Shop

A space in Virginia Gateway across from Chipotle has been diffi cult to fill, but it soon will become something highly sought after in Gainesville – a deli.

McAlister's Deli – the fast casual restaurant known for its handcraft ed sandwiches, fresh salads and “ginormous spuds” – is projected to open at Virginia Gateway in June.

Established in 1989 in Mississippi, the franchise has prided itself on its quality and maintaining the feel of the friendly neighborhood sandwich shop. “Once you’re here, relax and let us handle the rest,” is McAlister’s motto.

“McAlister’s Deli was founded

to foster a welcoming, communi ty oriented atmosphere centered on fresh, made to order meals,” said Alyssa Richardson, a spokesperson for Go To Foods franchises. “The brand has always combined classic deli fare with approachable flavors.” Throughout its growth to over 500 locations across 28 states, McAl ister’s Deli has diversified its deli menu. The sandwich shop offers diner staples like cobb salads and turkey clubs; deli favorites such as reubens, rachels and Italian subs; Southern style sandwiches such as the Memphian, featuring ham and roast beef, and even a Florida favor ite Cuban with tangy pulled pork.

What?

McAlister’s Deli Who?

GoTo Foods franchise Where?

5035 Wellington Road, Virginia Gateway When?

Projected for June 8

Info: mcalistersdeli.com

Did you know?

Menu features sandwiches, salads, subs, spuds and sweet tea

Fast-casual, counter order with seating

577 restaurants across 28 states with 12 Virginia locations

Southern-style deli, founded in Mississippi in 1989

Sample of the menu

McAlister’s famous tea

Rainforest Alliance

Certified Orange Pekoe

Black Tea Leaves, specially filtered. Made fresh, sweetened and poured over ice

Special - Chicago

Style French Dip

Black Angus roast beef, melted Swiss, and Chicago-style Giardiniera peppers, served on a toasted baguette with hot Au Jus.

McAlister’s is not the only Go-To Foods brand coming to the Virginia Gateway. It joins Aunt Anne’s and Cinnabon, which opened a combination location in May. Next to Nothing Bundt Cakes at Atlas Walk, the eatery features hand-rolled pretzels and Cinnabon’s cinnamon rolls, along with freshbrewed coffee and frozen beverages.

Frye’s Famous Crab Cake Co.

Jumbo-lump crabcakes and more Locally owned and operated

About 11 years ago, Brandon Frye of Haymarket was on track to become the next Guy Fieri. He was traveling around the country doing high energy food and restau rant review videos for his Food Dude USA YouTube channel.

But when he started getting raves for his fresh, homemade crab cake recipe, he took a leap of faith and in 2019 started a crab cake business out of his Haymarket home.

In 2024, Frye and his family opened their first brick and mortar location in a small storefront in Manassas, offering take out only. It regularly sold out of its crab cake platters and crab cake sandwiches to cus tomers who couldn’t get enough.

“We think we have the No. 1 crab cake

in the USA,” said Frye. “Even though crab cakes aren’t something you eat every day, we were pretty sure once people tried it, they’d be coming back.”

In 2025, Frye’s Famous Crab Cake Co. opened a larger location in Ashburn with a dining room, which allowed the restaurant to expand its menu.

The company added items like a fried fish sandwich, a fried shrimp platter and even chicken wings. Frye’s even added some “se cret family recipe” side dishes such as potato salad, shrimp pasta salad and coleslaw, all made in house.

“My mom created the potato salad,” Frye told Ashburn Magazine. “We thought about not offering it anymore because it’s so hard

to make and takes so much time, but it’s probably our No. 1 seller.”

Frye was looking for a third location when he saw a store front in Atlas Walk in Gainesville. It was a little bigger than the Ashburn location and had room for a patio. He immediately saw the potential.

“It’s nice being closer to my house, and that shopping center just crushes it. It’s just a great shopping center,” Frye said.

At this rate, Frye is locally famous, but the Food Dude remembers his ultimate goal – to franchise the brand nationally and have Frye’s truly live up to its “No. 1 in the USA” claim.

This article includes excerpts from an article in the July/August 2025 issue of Ashburn Magazine by Chris Wadsworth.

What?

Frye’s Famous Crab Cake Co. Who?

Brandon Frye of Haymarket, owner Where?

7336 Atlas Walk Way (Virginia Gateway) When?

Expected to open in July

More info: jumbolumpcakes.com

Did know?you

Counter ordering and takeout

Indoor and patio seating

Offers single and double platters and “Goliath” family-sized meals

Grand opening to be announced

Sample from the menu

Wild Caught Fried Gulf Shrimp Platter

8 XL Shrimp with Hush Puppies and One Side.

Shrimp Pasta Salad (Secret Family Recipe) with Wild Caught Shrimp

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Carbonara

Authentic Italian dining comes to the Promenade

Gainesville area residents are fortunate to have what is arguably Northern Virginia’s most authentic Italian restaurant moving into the Promenade at Virginia Gateway. The space formerly held by Bar Louie’s is undergoing renovations, and Carbonara is slated to open this summer.

Mike Cordero, Carbonara’s owner and executive chef, spent 45 years in the restau rant industry before opening Carbonara in Arlington in 2024. It immediately attracted high profile Washington patrons, including then President Joe Biden, and Yelp listed it among the best 25 new restaurants in the country that year.

Cordero, who is Italian American, fash ioned his restaurant after the white table cloth authentic Italian establishments found throughout New York City.

Carbonara’s features Italian dishes such as Clams Oregenato, Chicken Culet Parmi giana, Gnocchi della Mamma and Shrimp

Scampi. Everything is made from scratch in house, including the pasta and marinara sauce.

The atmosphere at the Arlington restau rant is traditional yet modern. The Gaines ville location is similar, but larger, able to accommodate 250 guests.

“It’s going to be twice the size of the restaurant in Arlington,” said Cordero, according to Northern Virginia Magazine. “We chose Gainesville because there really isn’t an Italian restaurant out there doing what Carbonara does, and we felt it would be a great fit.”

Diners who have eaten at Carbonara’s Arlington location are especially excited to have the restaurant come to Prince William County.

Alana Beck grew up in Northern New Jersey and has been on the lookout for au thentic Italian restaurants since relocating to Prince William over a decade ago.

KINDERGARTEN

What?

Carbonara, authentic Italian restaurant Who?

Chef Mike Cordero Where? 14081 Promenade Commons St., Promenade at Virginia Gateway When? Summer of 2026

Info: carbonarava.com

ST. PAUL’S

10:30 AM: Holy Eucharist & Children’s Liturgy 11:30 AM: Fellowship Celebrate With Us!

8:30 AM: Holy Eucharist

9:30 AM: Church School & Choir Rehearsal

Livestream on our Website - Sundays at 10:30 AM!

Upcoming Event - Alleluia, Alleluia! End of the Year Cookout – June 7

Father’s Day Services & Blessings – June 21 Feast of St. Peter & St. Paul – June 28

Our full schedule is on our website!

HaymarketGainesville Lifestyle Magazines mailed right to your door!

Did you know?

Style: Upscale Italian dining with wait service, independently owned Menu: Pasta, chicken and fish entrees and appetizers; wine and cocktails

Other locations: Arlington

Standout Menu Item

Pollo Piccata Boneless, tender white chicken breast sautéed in a creamy lemon sauce, prepared with white wine, basil and capers and served with roasted potatoes and broccolini.

She gave Carbonara high praise for its authenticity and originality.

“I had their famous chicken parmigiana alla vodka,” Beck said. “The chicken parm was great. It was a nice twist on the classic by using vodka sauce. The sauce was thick and creamy. The dip they gave with their bread at the beginning was fantastic. I think it was eggplant capanada.”

Gainesville resident Kevin Conroy of Gainesville said of all the restaurants coming to the area, he is most excited about Car bonara.

“[My wife and I have] gone to Carbonara in Arlington, and it’s phenomenal, so if the one down here is anything like the one in Arlington, then it is going to be great.”

The article includes excerpts from InsideNoVa article,“Chef Mike Cordero opens his oldschool Italian restaurant in Arlington,” written by Cameron Delean.

From Grass Roots to the Gateway I

Gainesville Central Farm Market opens at local shopping center

BY STACY SHAW

PHOTOS BY LUKE CHRISTOPHER

t was 9 a.m on the first Saturday in May, and Iron Bar Lane at Virginia Gateway in Gainesville has been transformed by the grand opening of a large outdoor farmers market and is abuzz with about 200 people.

Between two corridors lined with tents, children sample salsa, corn chips and apple cider; parents eye brightly colored fruits and vegetables, and young couples check out pottery, fresh coffee or dog treats.

Around the corner, people of various walks of life line up for artisanal hummus and pita chips, authentic Caribbean food and elevated street food, like empanadas.

The Gainesville Central Farm Market features a curated mix of about 25 vendors selling fresh chicken, pork, fish, dairy, produce, baked goods, prepared foods and flowers, and that was only the beginning.

Gateway owner Federal Realty has booked the market for every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. through Thanksgiving. “Expect live music, chef demos, and family-friendly activities throughout the weekend,” Virginia Gateway announced on its website.

The Founding

In 2008, Marylander Mitchel Berliner and his wife, Debra Moser, founded Central Farm Markets, which operates three other farmers markets in the Washington region.

Berliner, who grew up in Long Island, and is now in his 70s, has been in the food business for most of his career whereas Moser works in real estate.

As Berliner tells the story, he remarked to a vice president of Federal Realty that Bethesda did not have a farmers market, and that maybe the real estate company should start one.

“[She] looked at me and said, ‘That’s a great idea, but we don’t know anything about it; would you do it?’” explained Berliner. “That’s exactly how it got started. I thought this would keep me busy in my golden years.”

The Bethesda market grew

quickly. “On a busy day we have 76 vendors,” Berliner said. “It evolved into being the village green over time.”

They opened a second market in North Bethesda and then one in Washington.

Berliner has remained selective of where he plants a market. “I’ve turned down over 20 developers over the last 15 years. I don’t want to be like a chain.”

However, he saw potential in the Gainesville location. “I thought here is something that will give us a presence in Virginia, and it looks like a fabulous location with plenty of parking.”

Community-Minded

Central Farm Markets are more than places to shop. They are places to congregate, relax and enjoy outdoor entertainment. Visitors can eat, enjoy a festive environment and talk face-to-face.

And independent vendors can interact directly with their customers. “Our vendors are like family, and everyone has my cell phone number, and my wife’s phone number,” Berliner said.

Central Farm Markets gives back to the communities it serves. A Haymarket Food Pantry representative said Berliner has dropped off food every week.

“We are super proud of our relationships with nonprofits,” Berliner said. “Over 1 million pounds of fresh foods and vegetables are going to the food bank.”

Having vendors from Virginia, Washington, Maryland, Pennsylvania and West Virginia allows the market to source produce at peak season. “The first strawberries will be from the Northern Neck [of Virginia],” said Berliner, but as the weather gets warmer, they source them from farther north.

Northern Virginia vendors include a mushroom grower from Loudoun County and an artisanal bagel baker from Spotsylvania. Black Stone Honeybee Farms of Broad Run sells honey and goods at a few Central Farm Markets as well as at the Haymarket Farmers Market.

Jessica Tapscott of Warrenton says she frequents a few local markets. “I’m really impressed by [the Gainesville market],” she said while shopping there one Saturday morning. “I really like the food and the variety. I love the fact that I can get lunch and I can get veggies in one spot.”

That same morning, Melanie Kantor drove a distance to find a vendor she follows on social media. “This is my first time at the market. I actually live in Herndon, but I came all the way out because they have a gluten-free bakery.”

Berliner hopes to welcome more local farms and businesses. He has already partnered with the community by joining the Prince William Chamber of Commerce.

A Healthy Lifestyle

Farm market shopping can lead to people living a healthier lifestyle.

“The amount of people eating junk is unbelievable,” Berliner said, calling it a “national emergency” that leads to illnesses and disease. “That’s why I run farmers markets and why I shop there.”

His customers often ask him why farmers market food tastes better, and he explains it takes skill to grow highly nutritious delicious food.

“[People] really think you plant it, and you come back and you pick the fruit or vegetables,” said Berliner.

“People don’t have a clue what kind of expertise is involved. Pruning a fruit tree is a real skill,” he said, as one example.

Berliner swims laps every morning but mainly credits his diet for keeping him healthy and energetic.

“Every night I eat a big salad – a nice mix,” he said, and said guests ask him, “‘Oh, Mitch, this salad is so good, what did you do?’”

“‘What did I do?’ ‘Nothing.’ I tell them, ‘I went to the farmers market, like you should.’” L

Central Farm Markets is accepting new vendors. For more information, visit centralfarmmarkets.com

Stacy Shaw is an award-winning journalist. She is the editor of Haymarket/Gainesville Lifestyle Magazine and publisher/owner of the local news site BristowBeat.com.

Creamy, Savory and Surprisingly Easy

Freshly prepared ingredients are the key

BY CHEF ASHA CLARE

This favorite pasta dish is the perfect comfort food when you want something deeply satisfying and on the table in a pinch.

There’s just enough bacony goodness to indulge a meat craving and just enough asparagus to make you feel good about getting some greens. The addition of Pecorino Romano, lemon zest, fresh ground peppercorns and a sprinkling of Italian parsley round out the dish. The flavor of this dish is fantastic and so is the ease with which you can pull it all together. This dish is a “one pot” wonder! That’s right folks, you cook this tasty dish in one, count ’em…one pot. Yay for less dishes!

ABOUT THE CHEF

Chef Asha Clare of Warrenton is the owner and creative force behind The Kitchen Fairy, an artisan hospitality company that artfully weaves dining, event design and guest service into unforgettable culinary experiences. Growing up in Madison County, Clare was introduced to cooking with fresh garden ingredients by her grandmother, and developed a lifelong appreciation for food made with love and intention. Known for her elegant yet rustic and chic style, she handcrafts meals that are as thoughtful as they are delicious, rooted in local, organic, and sustainable ingredients.

KITCHENFAIRY.CO

TO SIP

Fettuccine Alfredo with asparagus & bacon

INGREDIENTS

1 lb. fettuccine

2 bunches fresh asparagus

1 lb. thick cut bacon

1½ cups heavy cream cup finely grated Pecorino Romano

Zest of two fresh lemons

Juice of ½ - 1 whole fresh lemon

4 tb. unsalted butter, large dice

½ tsp. fresh ground black pepper

1 bunch Italian parsley, chopped

Pinch of sea salt (if needed)

Kosher salt

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Cut bacon into lardons or large dice.

a block and grate it fresh for the recipe, as pre-grated cheese can dry out and lose flavor.

2. In a large pot, over medium heat, cook the bacon until the majority of the fat has rendered and the bacon is crispy.

3. Turn off the heat. Remove the bacon “bits” and place on a paper towel lined plate. Set aside. Leave the bacon drippings in the pot. The drippings add flavor to the pasta as it cooks.

4. In a medium bowl, combine the heavy cream, freshly grated Pecorino, lemon zest, lemon juice, butter and ground black pepper. Set aside.

5. Snap or cut off the tough ends of the asparagus (usually the bottom ⅓ of the stalk) and discard. Cut the remaining spears into 1-inch pieces. Set aside.

6. In the large pot with bacon drippings, add water and bring to a rolling boil.

7. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add kosher salt (the water should taste salty like seawater) and fettuccine.

8. Cook pasta until al dente ( the pasta should still have bite to it, approximately 5-8 minutes) then add the asparagus and continue to cook for another 2-4 minutes. Turn the heat to low. Reserve ½ cup of cooking liquid.

9. Drain the pasta and asparagus, add them back to the cooking pot along with ingredients for the cream sauce.

10. Toss to coat and continue cooking on low, until the cream sauce comes together, and begins to thicken slightly. If the sauce becomes too thick, thin it out by adding a little cooking liquid until you reach your desired consistency.

11. Taste your dish and adjust the flavors, if needed. More lemon juice for acidity, more butter for silkiness, black pepper for a little bite or a pinch of salt. Keep in mind that you’re going to add more cheese to the final dish which will add saltiness, so be sure not to over salt your pasta.

12. Serve immediately so the pasta is hot, in a large serving dish, family style or in individual bowls. Sprinkle the bacon bits over the pasta, followed by a little additional grated cheese and chopped Italian parsley.

TOP 10 H&G’s

The five highest-priced homes that sold in each of the two local ZIP codes between mid-April and mid-May. Photos and home data from Realtor.com.

4341 BANBURY DRIVE

$1,100,000

Sold: May 4

4 Bedrooms

2½ Bathrooms

3,820 square feet

13717 HERITAGE VALLEY WAY

$915,000

Sold: April 29

3 Bedrooms

3 Bathrooms

4,158 square feet

14220 LADDERBACKED DRIVE

$910,000

Sold: May 4

4 Bedrooms

3½ Bathrooms

4,110 square feet

7224 WINNIPEG COURT

$900,000

Sold: May 4

5 Bedrooms

4½ Bathrooms

5,011 square feet

8304 TENBROOK COURT

$870,200

Sold: April 28

4 Bedrooms

3½ Bathrooms

4,248 square feet

The Big Picture:

Local home sales declined slightly in April after four straight monthly gains. Sales were down 6.2% in the Gainesville and Haymarket ZIP codes combined, compared with April 2025.

But on the positive side: Pending sales, median sales prices and new listings were up in both ZIP codes, according to the latest data from the Prince William Association of Realtors. And homes continue to sell quickly – within two to three weeks on average.

The April Details:

Closed sales:

• Up 8% in Gainesville to 54 units

• Down 21.3% in Haymarket to 37 units

• Combined sales totaled 91, down from 97 a year earlier

New Pending sales:

• Up 9.1% in Gainesville

• Up 41.9% in Haymarket

Median sales price:

• Up 7.4% to $770,000 in Gainesville

• Up 4% to $826,822 in Haymarket

Average days on market (homes sold in April):

• 10 in Gainesville

• 22 in Haymarket

20169 Haymarket

16771 THUNDER ROAD

$1,680,000

Sold: May 1

6 Bedrooms

5 Bathrooms

5,381 square feet

5954 CODY SPRING PLACE

$1,650,000

Sold: May 1

6 Bedrooms

6½ Bathrooms 7,405 square feet

5334 CHAFFINS FARM COURT

$1,400,000

Sold: May 5

4 Bedrooms

5½ Bathrooms 6,941 square feet

7130 MERCURY AVE.

$1,305,000

Sold: May 19

5 Bedrooms

4½ Bathrooms 6,067 square feet

15141 GOLF VIEW DRIVE

$1,280,000

Sold: April 28

5 Bedrooms

3½ Bathrooms 4,514 square feet

Contact: Jim Kelly, Sales Director jim@whglifestyle.com 434-987-3542

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Amazon buys more land in western Prince William

Amazon’s data center arm continues its push in Prince William County, purchasing property east of Gainesville for $65 million, according to county land records.

The tech giant closed on the property at 7505 Mason King Court from California-based Menlo Equities in late March. Amazon already has multiple data center properties in Prince William.

The $65 million transaction is the latest in western Prince William. Amazon Data Services also bought about 44 acres at 6922, 6894 and 6898 Wellington Road and 8019 Devlin Road near Gainesville for $120 million in February.

Manassas, Haymarket medical centers receive top grades

U VA Health’s community medical centers in Culpeper, Haymarket and Manassas received “A” grades from The Leapfrog Group’s spring 2026 Hospital Safety Grades.

The UVA Health Haymarket and Prince William Medical Centers have maintained “Straight A” designations for over 15 consecutive grading periods.

The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade is assigned by the Leapfrog Group, an independent national watchdog organization. The Safety Grade assigns grades of A through F to hospitals across the country based on over 30 national performance measures reflecting errors, accidents, injuries and infections, as well as processes hospitals have in place to prevent harm.

What’s next for the Digital Gateway?

Data center developer QTS is proceeding with a high-stakes appeal to the Virginia Supreme Court to revive the colossal PW Digital Gateway, a proposed 2,000-acre, 22 millionsquare-foot data center complex near Gainesville that was recently nullified by the Virginia Court of Appeals.

The legal battle, rooted in the controversial December 2023 county rezonings, will first go before a discretionary “writ panel” of three Supreme Court justices in late May or early June, where QTS will present its case for appeal.

Attorneys for the plaintiffs – the Oak Valley Homeowners Association and the American Battlefield Trust – will not appear.

The appeal moved forward despite fellow developer Compass electing to drop its legal challenge and Prince William County ending its defense of the rezonings, which cost the county over $1.7 million in legal fees.

Wesley Williams gets the NFL call

Battlefield High School graduate Wesley Williams realized a lifelong dream April 25 when the Jacksonville Jaguars selected him with their fourth-round pick (No. 119 overall) in the NFL Draft.

The 21-year-old Duke standout, who was a projected fifthor sixth-round pick by analysts, learned of his selection in a call from Jaguars General Manager James Gladstone. Williams’ agents had previously advised him to answer every call – even potential spam – in the final days before the draft, an instruction that paid off in a “serene moment” he called “super exciting.”

Kline Farm development moves forward

The Prince William Board of County Supervisors has unanimously approved a comprehensive plan amendment and rezoning application for the former Kline Farm, authorizing the development of “Legacy at Kline,” a 240-unit age-restricted community just east of Manassas.

The proposal, which will feature 132 villa-style townhomes and 108 single-family units, mandates that 80% of the community be restricted to residents aged 55 or older.

While the proposal passed unanimously at the May 13 meeting, supervisors addressed concerns regarding both transportation and groundwater.

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