Prince William

The debate has already begun in Gainesville: which Great American Restaurants brand will open when the company launches its first Prince William County location in 2027?

On a recent episode of the Potomac Local Podcast, host Uriah Kiser and Del. Ian Lovejoy discussed the long-awaited announcement, reacting to news first reported by the Prince William Times. Great American Restaurants — the regional dining group behind Sweetwater Tavern, Mike’s American, Coastal Flats, and other popular Northern Virginia concepts — plans to open a new restaurant at 14100 Whitney Road.


Fredericksburg

The Publisher Hotel in Fredericksburg has named Cody DeRosett as its new executive chef, just in time for the holidays. DeRosett joins the Marriott Tribute Portfolio property with more than 10 years of culinary leadership at top restaurants and hotels nationwide.

Chef DeRosett will oversee the hotel’s signature restaurant, Five Chophouse, where he’s introducing seasonal menus inspired by local ingredients and personal stories. One standout dish, a Jerk Hen entrée, originated from a recipe he learned from a friend in Jamaica. His style blends creativity, comfort, and guest-centered hospitality.


Stafford

“We were thrilled to welcome the Stafford community to our newly remodeled Next Generation Dunkin’ and Baskin-Robbins combo restaurant,” local franchisee Pravina Bhalani stated. “This celebration was our way of saying thank you to our loyal guests and sharing the excitement of our refreshed, modern space.”

During the November 8 event, guests enjoyed free medium coffees, merchandise giveaways, music, and face painting. The grand reopening included a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a $500 donation to the Stafford County Fire and Rescue Charitable Foundation. That evening, the Baskin-Robbins location hosted a “Baskin Family Night,” offering $1.99 single scoops.


Fredericksburg

“It’s Pastry Stout Party time!” Always Flavored announced. “This amazing beer is brewed by our friends at 6 Bears & A Goat in collaboration with the legends at Paul’s Bakery.”

The brewery will tap one of the rare kegs of Paul’s Bakery Pastry Stout on Friday, November 14, at 3 p.m. The beer, described as “dessert in a glass,” is made with chocolate-custard donuts and homemade custard, featuring notes of cocoa and vanilla.


Fredericksburg

“This week’s community dinner is full,” Always Flavored announced. “Thank you to everyone who signed up and to our generous partners for making this possible.”

The free meal event—sponsored by Obedience Kings Dog Training, Billikens Smokehouse, and Always Flavored—was organized to serve 200 people affected by the ongoing government shutdown. Meals are scheduled for pickup Monday, November 10, at Billikens Smokehouse in Fredericksburg.


Prince William

“Closing a restaurant is never easy. This was a business decision and is not a reflection of the management or staff,” Bloomin’ Brands spokesperson Elizabeth Daly told the Prince William Times. “We appreciate the community’s support over the past 21 years and hope to see them in our Fairfax restaurant.”

The Bonefish Grill in Gainesville — known for its popular “Bang Bang Shrimp” — closed suddenly on Sunday, October 26, after more than two decades in business. Employees were seen packing up items the next day, and the restaurant’s signage was removed from its building at 7611 Somerset Crossing Drive.


Newslinks

Visit Occoquan (Facebook) – Congratulations to Thai Ghang Waan Occoquan on their grand opening in Occoquan! While they have been open for a few months here (and have a location in Springfield!), we were excited to celebrate them officially today with a ribbon-cutting.

Savor the fusion of vintage ambiance, bold Thai flavors, and effortless cool. Open 7 days a week at 416 Mill Street in Occoquan.


Fredericksburg

The Virginia Restaurant, Lodging & Travel Association (VRLTA) has expanded its Bull Run Chapter to include Spotsylvania County, the City of Fredericksburg, the City of Manassas, and the City of Manassas Park — strengthening the group’s presence across the I-95 and Route 28 corridors.

The Bull Run Chapter, which represents restaurant, lodging, and tourism businesses in Northern Virginia, now spans some of the region’s fastest-growing communities. VRLTA says the move will help hospitality professionals connect, collaborate, and advocate more effectively on issues affecting their industry.


Prince William

The Harbour Grille in Woodbridge will offer free meals to veterans and active-duty military on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, as part of a regional Veterans Day celebration hosted by the Lewis Restaurant Group. The event runs from noon to 8 p.m.

Located at 13188 Marina Way, The Harbour Grille offers waterfront dining along the Occoquan River. The restaurant is known for its seafood dishes, dockside ambiance, and weekend live music. It’s one of several participating locations across Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C., including Barley Mac, Crafthouse, and Stan’s DC.


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