Sometimes a dining experience comes along that completely redefines what's possible in Northern Virginia's restaurant scene. This week, I'm excited to share one such discovery with you.

The NoVA dining scene keeps pushing boundaries, from premium steakhouses to vibrant new casual spots. This week, we're exploring an exceptional special occasion destination, plus I'll share how you can make the most of an unprecedented three concurrent restaurant weeks happening right now.

This week, we're diving into:

• A deep dive into Bourbon Boulevard, where exceptional beef meets excellent service
• Your guide to THREE concurrent restaurant weeks
• The latest on exciting new openings across the region

Let's dig in!

Featured Review: Bourbon Boulevard

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In the realm of special occasion dining, few experiences can match sharing your first taste of A5 Kobe beef with your child. At Bourbon Boulevard in Chantilly (4301 Chantilly Shopping Center), one of only three Northern Virginia establishments offering this coveted delicacy, such moments transform from mere meals into core memories.

Upon entering, you're immediately struck by the restaurant's commitment to its craft. Chilled display cabinets showcase impressive sides of beef dry-aging in full view, including their spectacular tomahawk cuts. The interior embraces classic steakhouse sophistication – dark woods, high columns, and weighty silverware that whispers "special occasion" before you've even opened a menu.

The space is thoughtfully divided between a vibrant bar area and a more intimate restaurant section, where nightly live jazz adds an elegant soundtrack without overwhelming conversation. The lighting is strategically dim, creating an ambiance that makes each of the roughly 30 tables feel like its own private dining experience.

The Journey to Excellence

The service style here leans more toward hosting than mere serving, with staff who seem genuinely invested in crafting memorable experiences. Our server's enthusiasm for the menu was infectious, regularly checking in and offering thoughtful recommendations throughout our unhurried evening.

The beverage program deserves special mention, particularly their mocktail selection. At $9 each (a refreshing contrast to their $16-17 cocktail counterparts), offerings like the Pear and Rosemary mocktail demonstrate real creativity and balance, avoiding the cloying sweetness that often plagues alcohol-free options.

The Supporting Cast

Appetizers, while premium-priced at around $20 each, justify their cost. The garlic shrimp arrive as substantial, nearly lobster-sized specimens, perfectly grilled and swimming in rich garlic butter. Wagyu sliders, served open-faced with caramelized onions, offer an enticing preview of the beef program's quality.

Side dishes ($12-16) show similar attention to detail. The mashed potatoes achieve that elusive balance of creaminess without excess, while crispy Brussels sprouts with almonds and bacon demonstrate perfect execution. The mushroom risotto, while competent, might leave Italian cuisine purists wanting – though it serves its purpose as a steakhouse side dish.

The Star of the Show

But let's be clear: you're here for the beef, and specifically, the A5 Kobe. At $50 per ounce (with a 4-ounce minimum), it's an investment in an almost indescribable experience. The meat literally melts like butter, accompanied by a single stick of asparagus and a line of salt for custom seasoning. For those seeking slightly more accessible options, other types of Japanese Wagyu are available from $25 per ounce, and American Wagyu offerings provide yet another price point for exploration. The impressive 32-ounce tomahawk steak ($169, serving two or more) showcases their expertise with more traditional cuts.

Beyond the Plate

What elevates Bourbon Boulevard beyond mere excellent food is their attention to special occasions. The owner makes personal visits, sharing his passion for the business and, in our case, presenting a branded money clip/cardholder as a birthday gift. When the jazz band strikes up "Happy Birthday," it feels less like restaurant protocol and more like a genuine celebration.

The dessert menu features steakhouse standards – cheesecake, ice cream, crème brûlée – though after such a feast, you may find yourself, as we did, too satisfied to indulge.

The Verdict

Bourbon Boulevard isn't an everyday dining destination, nor does it try to be. Instead, it excels at being exactly what it is: a premium steakhouse where special occasions become unforgettable experiences. While the A5 Kobe beef might be the headline attraction, it's the thoughtful service, elegant atmosphere, and attention to detail that make this restaurant worthy of life's most meaningful celebrations.

Price Range: $$$$

Best For: Special occasions, serious steak enthusiasts

Notable Features: Live music nightly, A5 Kobe beef, expert dry-aging program

This Week in NoVA Dining News

After that deep dive into one of NoVA's most special destinations, let's look at what else is happening in our vibrant dining scene this week.

Three Restaurant Weeks Are Better Than One

If you're looking to explore multiple exceptional dining experiences without breaking the bank, this week offers an unprecedented opportunity:

• Metropolitan Washington Restaurant Week (Through Sunday) - Over 370 restaurants offering multi-course meals at $25-$65 price points. Pro tip: Look for the nearly 100 venues offering drink pairings, some complimentary!
• Alexandria Restaurant Week (Jan 31-Feb 9) - 90+ restaurants with prix-fixe dinner menus at $30, $40, or $50. Don't miss deals at casual favorites like Capo Italian Deli and Toastique.
• Falls Church Restaurant Week (Jan 31-Feb 9) - Get your passport stamped at eight restaurants for a chance to win gift cards. From acclaimed Ellie Bird to casual Turkish sensation Borek-G.

New Openings to Watch

The Big Greek Cafe Expands to NoVA

The beloved Maryland-based Greek restaurant is taking over four former SouvlakiBar locations. The Alexandria location (2732 Richmond Highway) is already open, with Oakton, Sterling, and Leesburg coming soon. Don't miss their Wednesday $7 gyro pita special!

Pentagon City's Sweet and Savory Additions

The Fashion Centre at Pentagon City is welcoming four exciting new eateries:

• Amorino Gelato: French-brand Italian gelato served in their signature rose-petal pattern
• Kati Roll Wala: Casual Indian cuisine featuring signature Kati Rolls
• Pollo Campero: Arlington's first location of this beloved Guatemalan chicken chain
• Tour les Jours: French-Asian bakery offering fresh breads, pastries, and sandwiches

That's it for this week! Here's what we covered:

• An unforgettable steakhouse experience at Bourbon Boulevard
• Three concurrent restaurant weeks offering unprecedented dining deals
• Exciting new openings bringing more diverse flavors to NoVA

Remember, whether you're splurging on A5 Kobe or exploring restaurant week specials, every meal is an opportunity to discover something exceptional in Northern Virginia.

PS... If you're enjoying Best NoVA Restaurants, please consider referring the newsletter to a friend so they can subscribe! Great food is better when shared!

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