Chef Mike Isabella announced plans to open Isabella Eatery, a 41,000-square-foot dining complex that will include nine eateries and a cocktail bar. Located in Tysons Galleria, an upscale mall in McLean, Virginia, and designed by Bethesda-based Streetsense, the eatery is scheduled to open in the summer of 2017.
“This is by far the biggest project we’ve ever taken on,” Isabella says. “But I think we are uniquely positioned to succeed here. All our great Mike Isabella Concepts chefs are on board and bringing their individual perspectives and flavors to Isabella Eatery. Each of our other openings and events have paved the way for this.”
Isabella Eatery’s 10 concepts offer a mix of dine-in, carryout, and specialty retail items. A 300-seat common area includes unified table service for all of the different types of eateries, including Japanese and Korean restaurant Yona; Isabella’s Italian flagship Graffiato; his Mexican cantina Pepita; Greek restaurant Kapnos; Octagon cocktail bar; Spanish concept, Arroz; Non-Fiction coffee shop; and an ice cream parlor are among the dining options. The food emporium includes lounge style seating, for 600 seats.
Each concept has its own specific look, marked by dramatic architecture. Natural wood and complementary geometric patterns inspired by classic DC architecture are unifying elements of the design. An atrium-like space near the entrance is marked by trees, a Washington-area map painted by a local artist over exposed brick, and dramatic lighting fixtures. Octagon Bar is the main focal point seen from all levels of Tysons Galleria. Dining areas are adorned with artwork from local artists.