Located on the edge of Merrifield, the Mosaic District opened in 2012, transforming a 31-acre parcel at the intersection of Lee Highway and Gallows road into a mixed-use hub of shops and eateries, with residences overlooking the action. Today, the village-like setting is home to some 35 stores, 34 restaurants, the Angelika Film Center and 20 service-oriented businesses, including gyms and salons, plus a never-ending supply of seasonal happenings, from farmers markets and holiday-themed celebrations to free workouts on the lawn. Here’s a look at the neighborhood’s most recent newcomers and soon-to-open businesses.
Now Open
Hi/Fi Tex-Mex BBQ
This casual joint opened March 1, dishing out Texas-style ‘cue (brisket, spare ribs, chopped pork, house-made sausages) and classic Tex-Mex favorites such as tacos, nachos, queso and wings. It’s also got a full bar serving craft beers, frozen cocktails and tequila in many forms, including classic margs. Plus, there’s a game room if you need to burn off some calories. A sister spot to the original Hi/Fi Tex-Mex in Del Ray, owned by Neighborhood Restaurant Group, it replaces NRG’s Red Apron butcher shop, which closed in December. // 8298 Glass Alley, Fairfax
Herman Miller
Looking to spruce up your home, office or home office? Check out the sleek designs in this modern furniture seller’s 2,000-square-foot retail space, which opened Feb. 24 between Custom Ink and Madison Reed Color Bar. Chat with product specialists, test drive office and gaming chairs, and ogle the coffee tables, lounge seating and other mid-century-style pieces by designers such as Alexander Girard, Charles & Ray Eames and Isamu Noguchi. // 2921 District Ave., FairfaxÂ
Coming Soon
Boll & Branch
Soon to join the bevy of home furnishings showrooms—West Elm, Pottery Barn and Herman Miller—is this purveyor of luxury home textiles. Find bedding, bath towels, throw blankets, pillows and other home goods in organic cotton, luxe linen and fine flannel, all of which are made with sustainable materials. Not sure which color or pattern will look best in your house? Ask for a free swatch. // 2321 District Ave., Fairfax
District Candle Lab
DIY-ers, this one is all you. Ferzan Jaeger opened her make-your-own candle shop in D.C. last year and will unveil a sister spot at Mosaic on May 2. Stop in and work with a “candle-tender” to create a custom candle, complete with your preferred fragrance. While the wax dries, you can make custom jewelry at the Fawne Charm Bar. Ready-made, Mediterranean-inspired home accessories will also be for sale. // 2910 District Ave., Fairfax
Maman
Arriving just in time for iced coffee weather, this French-inspired cafe will open this summer, serving daily quiche, granola parfaits and Belgian waffles topped with seasonal compote, crème fraîche, powdered sugar and toasted pumpkin seeds. Pastries, sandwiches, salads and soups round out the menu. // 2920 District Ave., Fairfax
The Salty Donut
Indulge your sweet tooth when the first Virginia outpost of this Miami-born doughnut chain opens here. Menus vary by location, as the treats are made in-house with local partners, but fans can expect over-the-top doughnuts in flavors such as maple-bacon and whipped Nutella crunch, along with house-made Pop-Tarts, and coffee drinks such as a cold brew mixed with lemonade (yes, it’s a thing). // 2905 District Ave., Fairfax
Zakaa Couture
Fashion designer Asma Zaka is bringing her hand-sewn bridal gown and eveningwear lines to a new atelier space in the heart of Mosaic. Brides-to-be looking for one-of-a-kind dresses can opt for the Zakaa Couture Collection, which can be customized. // 2910 District Ave., Fairfax