WOODBRIDGE, Va. – Brew Republic Bierwerks, a longtime fixture in the Stonebridge Town Center, will permanently close its doors after nearly nine years in business.

According to a message shared by the brewery, its landlord has terminated the lease, and with the high costs of relocating and ongoing challenges in the restaurant and brewery industries, the owners have decided not to reopen elsewhere. “This isn’t the opportunity-rich environment breweries had experienced in 2016 when we opened,” they wrote.

The brewery will host a farewell celebration from July 25 to 27, inviting patrons to join them for “food, fun, alcohol, and A LOT of beer” before their final day of public service on Sunday, July 27. Specials and events are planned in the weeks leading up to the closing weekend.

Brew Republic cited a shift in landlord relations following the 2023 sale of the shopping center as a key factor in the decision.

Despite the closure, the owners expressed pride in their role as a community gathering place, noting weddings, retirements, and even a presidential inauguration beer among their many memories. They plan to sell the remaining beer and other items before closing.

🍽️ Three-Course Menu Suggestion

Starter:
Fried Calamari
Lightly battered and fried to perfection, these tender calamari rings are served with a zesty marinara sauce, offering a delightful start to your meal.

Main Course:
Chicken Marsala
Succulent chicken breasts sautéed with mushrooms in a rich Marsala wine sauce, served over a bed of al dente pasta, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

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A Touch of Parisian Romance on William Street
Step into the heart of downtown Fredericksburg and discover La Petite Auberge, a timeless gem that’s been delighting diners since 1981. Family-owned and operated, this cozy French restaurant and lounge captures the charm of a European bistro with the warm familiarity of a hometown favorite. Whether you’re sipping Bordeaux in the softly lit lounge or sharing crème brûlée in a quiet corner of the dining room, it’s the perfect setting for an unforgettable date night.

Curated Date Night Menu
Starter
Escargots à la Bourguignonne
Classic French snails, baked in garlic-parsley butter and served piping hot. Rich, savory, and perfect for sharing.

Main Course
Duck à l’Orange
Tender duck breast roasted to perfection, drizzled in a velvety Grand Marnier-orange sauce. Served with seasonal vegetables and whipped potatoes — a harmonious balance of sweet and savory.

Dessert
Chocolate Mousse
Silky and decadent, this classic French dessert is whipped to airy perfection and topped with fresh cream and dark chocolate shavings.

Ambiance & Experience
La Petite Auberge invites you into a romantic, European-inspired space where soft jazz plays in the background and the lighting flatters every table. The restaurant’s historic location adds character with exposed brick, wooden beams, and elegant white linens. In warmer months, ask for a table near the window for a street view of downtown’s charming bustle. Their lounge also offers a more casual yet intimate vibe — perfect for a pre-dinner cocktail or a post-dinner nightcap.

Reservation & Visitor Info
Location: 311 William St, Fredericksburg
Phone: 540-371-2727
Reservations: Reserve via website
Dress Code: Smart casual – think elegant but relaxed
Pro Tip: Try to book ahead for Friday and Saturday evenings — and don’t miss the Chef’s specials.

Make It a Night to Remember
Have a favorite dish or a date night memory at La Petite Auberge? Share your moments with us using #DateNightSpotlight — we’d love to see your photos and hear your stories!

On Saturday, over 200 people stood in line to check out a new habit: Habit Burger launched its first of three soft openings before opening the new Chancellor’s Crossing store on Wednesday.

The California-based company’s char-grilled burgers are the star of a menu that also features chicken, sandwiches, and unusual side dishes. The new Spotsylvania location is the company’s fifth in Virginia, joining Richmond, Chantilly, Virginia Beach, and Ashburn.

During Saturday’s soft opening, the first 200 guests received a free burger, fries, and a drink. On Monday and Tuesday, the first 200 guests were treated to free meals with expanded menu choices as the kitchen staff practiced for full service.

Local residents standing in line were grateful for cloud cover to offset the high humidity. Celine, one of the first to leave the restaurant holding her to-go bags, shared her excitement about having a Habit Burger nearby. Having been to other locations, she said the chain stands apart from others: “It’s less greasy, and it has more variety… they’re more creative with their burgers, and if you’re vegan, you can eat here too.” She also praised their selection of healthy options and recommended the tempura fried green beans.

Jim, who works at the nearby Publix and lives just minutes away, came to try out the new spot. He said he’d been priced out of other burger chains. “I went there one day and got cheeseburger, fries, and drink. It was 21 bucks. I’m like, not again. Never again.” Jim added that the growing development in Chancellor’s Crossing has helped bring more choices to the area, and residents appreciate having more options closer to their homes.

General Manager Morgan Libert greeted guests at the door, handing out flyers and keeping the line moving. “When I run out of flyers, we’re done,” he said. “We’ll repeat this on Monday and on Tuesday, and then the grand opening is Wednesday.”

David Gneckow, Habit Burger’s Opening Coordinator, said the company chose the Spotsylvania area based on several factors. “We don’t want to go in an area where people can’t afford us, because we’re not the cheapest one. But we are the one that’s cooking it fresh, that gives you the most diversity and the most variety.” He pointed out the kitchen’s lack of a freezer and emphasized the company’s commitment to freshness and service. “I can teach them fries, but I’ll never teach them to be a nice person.”

Habit Burger was recognized in the 2024 USA Today’s 10 Best awards. In addition to “Best Fast Food Burger,” the chain won “Best Fast Food Sides” for the tempura green beans.

Habit Burger’s grand opening was Wednesday, June 18. They are open from 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. at 5916 Plank Road in Spotsylvania.

Step into elegance and Mediterranean romance at Carmello’s, a beloved fine dining destination nestled in the heart of Manassas.

Family-owned since 1987 and helmed by Portuguese immigrant Alice Pires, Carmello’s offers a contemporary blend of Portuguese and Italian cuisine, seasonally crafted and bursting with garden-fresh flavor. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a night out, this award-winning restaurant delivers a dining experience that’s as warm and refined as its heritage.

Three-Course Date Night Menu
Starter: Charcuterie Board
A sophisticated arrangement of imported meats, cheeses, olives, and house-made accompaniments — perfect for sharing and savoring over a glass of wine.

Main Course: Mariscada Carmello’s
A seafood lover’s dream — scallops, mussels, clams, calamari, and shrimp simmered in a saffron tomato broth. Aromatic, hearty, and deeply satisfying.

Dessert: Chocolate Hazelnut Torte
Rich layers of chocolate and hazelnut, delicately sweet and indulgent — the perfect ending to an elegant evening.

Ambiance & Experience
Carmello’s glows with upscale charm — think white linens, soft lighting, and a rustic elegance that makes you feel both pampered and at home. The dining room is cozy and intimate, ideal for quiet conversation, while the attentive service elevates the entire experience. For added romance, request a seat near the window overlooking charming Battle Street, especially when the town is aglow with seasonal lights.

Reservation & Visitor Info
Address: 9108 Center Street, Manassas, VA 20110
Phone: 703-368-5522
Dinner Hours: Wednesday – Sunday, 5 to 10 p.m.
Dress Code: Business casual (think date-night chic)
Pro Tip: Ask about their seasonal specials — many incorporate herbs from Carmello’s on-site garden for a fresh, unexpected twist.

Reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends. Visit carmellos.com to reserve your table.

Share the Love
Have you enjoyed a magical meal at Carmello’s? Tag your favorite date night photos with #DateNightSpotlightand drop your favorite dish in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you!

Taste of La Dolce Vita in the Heart of the City
When you walk into Orofino, you’re instantly transported to a cozy Italian trattoria where the scent of garlic and fresh herbs floats through the air, and warm golden lighting invites you to relax and savor every moment. Nestled in charming downtown Fredericksburg, Orofino offers more than just dinner—it’s a journey through Italy’s rich culinary regions, served with heartfelt hospitality and a genuine love for good food.

Three-Course Date Night Menu
Starter:
Fritto di Calamari
Lightly fried calamari, crispy on the outside and tender within, served with a house-made lemon aioli and a splash of marinara. Perfectly shareable with a glass of chilled white wine.

Main Course:
Tagliatelle al Ragu di Cinghiale
Handmade tagliatelle pasta with a rich, slow-braised wild boar ragù. Deeply flavorful, comforting, and a dish that tells a story with every bite—straight from the hills of Tuscany.

Dessert:
Tiramisu Classico
An ethereal take on the classic Italian dessert—layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa. Romantic, indulgent, and unforgettable.

Ambiance & Experience
Orofino combines rustic elegance with Italian soul. Think exposed brick walls, candlelit tables, soft acoustic music, and a staff that treats you like family. It’s a place where couples linger over wine, and the atmosphere is intimate yet lively. The open kitchen adds a touch of theater, as chefs craft each dish with precision and passion.

Standout features:
Cozy indoor seating with romantic lighting
Chef specials and rotating seasonal dishes
Occasional wine-pairing events

Reservations & Visitor Info
Address: 1006 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Phone: (540) 429-4124
Reservations: Book on OpenTable
Dress Code: Smart casual (think polished but comfortable)

Pro Tip: Ask your server for their wine pairing recommendation—Orofino’s Italian wine list is a hidden gem.

Join the Conversation
Have a favorite Orofino memory or a go-to dish? Share your date night photos and tag us with #DateNightSpotlight on Instagram.
Let us know in the comments: What’s your favorite Italian comfort dish?

At Taste of Old Country, guests are treated to more than just a meal—they’re invited into an experience that combines European bistro charm with a curated gourmet market. Located at 10427 Balls Ford Road, near Manassas, this hidden gem offers a relaxed yet refined atmosphere perfect for everything from casual lunches to lively evening wine tastings.

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Step into a slice of the Mediterranean right here in Historic Downtown Manassas. Katerina’s Greek Cuisine offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere where authentic Greek flavors and family traditions come together to create a dining experience that feels both elevated and homey. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, every bite promises to transport you to a coastal taverna in Greece.

A Taste of Greece: Three-Course Date Night Menu
Starter
Dolmades – Grape leaves delicately stuffed with a savory mix of rice, herbs, and lemon, served warm with a side of creamy avgolemono sauce. A perfect balance of tangy and comforting.

Main Course
Lamb Souvlaki – Tender, marinated lamb skewers grilled to perfection, served with fluffy pita, tzatziki, and a side of lemon potatoes. Smoky, juicy, and full of robust Mediterranean spices.

Dessert
Baklava – Flaky layers of phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts and drenched in a honey-cinnamon syrup. A sweet, sticky finish you’ll be dreaming about on the ride home.

Ambiance & Experience
Katerina’s sets the tone with warm lighting, rustic décor, and the gentle hum of Mediterranean music. The dining room is intimate yet lively — perfect for sharing stories over mezze and wine. The walls are adorned with nods to Greek culture, while the kitchen sends out waves of olive oil, garlic, and lemon that awaken the senses. Outdoor patio seating is available when weather permits, adding to the charming small-town atmosphere.

Reservation & Visitor Info
9212 Center Street, Manassas, VA 20110
(703) 361-4976
Dress Code: Smart casual
Pro Tip: Arrive a little early to explore the quaint shops along Center Street before dinner — or grab a post-dinner stroll for the full romantic effect.

Share Your Experience
Fell in love with the baklava? Snapped a cozy table-for-two selfie? Share your evening at Katerina’s using #DateNightSpotlight — and let us know in the comments which dish made your night unforgettable.

It’s National Burger Day, and local spots are rolling out the red carpet for burger fans! 🍔

In Manassas, Philadelphia Tavern is celebrating with their Tuesday Burger Day special. Guests can enjoy dine-in pricing on burgers starting at $8 for a specialty burger and $12 for a premium option, both served with their signature homemade chips. Want fries instead? Add them for just $1 more. It’s the perfect excuse to enjoy a burger and a beer at this beloved neighborhood tavern.

Down in Fredericksburg, Eats Burgers is honoring International Burger Day with a sizzling deal — half off the Eats Classic burger all day long on Wednesday, May 28. It’s a one-day-only offer to mark the “holiday of all holidays,” and a delicious way to treat yourself.

National Burger Day is a food holiday celebrated in the United States to honor one of the country’s most beloved comfort foods — the hamburger. While its exact origins are a bit hazy, here’s what we know about how this tasty tradition began and evolved:

🍔 Origins of the Burger

The hamburger’s roots go back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. While several people and locations claim to have invented the hamburger, the most widely accepted story credits Louis Lassen, a Danish immigrant in New Haven, Connecticut. In 1900, he allegedly served the first hamburger at his small lunch wagon, Louis’ Lunch, using steak trimmings ground into patties.

📅 When National Burger Day Began

National Burger Day, as celebrated in the U.S., doesn’t have an official government designation but has grown into a popular unofficial holiday. It is typically observed annually on May 28. The day likely emerged from food marketing campaigns and the cultural love affair with burgers, which are a staple at backyard cookouts, diners, fast food chains, and gourmet restaurants alike.

Over the years, restaurants began using the day to run promotions, showcase creative burger specials, and celebrate regional styles — from smash burgers to veggie and plant-based patties.

Make your next date night unforgettable with a taste of Italy right here in Manassas.

Looking for a romantic Italian escape without leaving Prince William County? Step into SEMIFREDDO Italian Cuisine—a charming culinary gem in Manassas offering a warm, intimate setting and a menu bursting with traditional and Mediterranean flavors. With over 20 years of chef-driven expertise, this locally owned favorite is ideal for couples seeking a memorable night out over wine, pasta, and candlelight.

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