McLean Restaurant Week

How many restaurants are in Downtown McLean?   Even longtime residents are surprised at the answer: 53.   From stalwarts like McLean Family Restaurant that have been in the same family for decades, to a globe-spanning array of international offerings such as SHō Sushi & Izakaya, to notable recent arrivals such as Town and Matchbox built by individuals and restaurant groups who have made clear with that they are bullish on investing in the McLean – our dining options are on the rise.

This spring, McLean’s restaurant offerings will be on full display at the inaugural McLean Restaurant Week, scheduled for April 12-19 and presented by the McLean Revitalization Corp (MRC), an all-volunteer nonprofit organization dedicated to improving Downtown McLean.

As Tricia Palaez-Anderson, who runs the 8500-member McLean Foodies Facebook group, points out, “what’s happening in McLean right now feels like a true restaurant renaissance. We’ve moved from limited, predictable choices to a diverse mix of modern, chef-driven spots and it’s all happening steps from home. The energy is real, and the community is showing up for it. “ 

As the McLean community grows, with new houses across our neighborhoods and new Downtown condo residents seeking a walkable Downtown McLean dining and entertainment experience, our restaurants are growing with us. 

Wantanee Ketsa, owner of Chiang Mai Thai Cookhouse, recounts that “we chose McLean because we fell in love with the strong sense of community here. We first started as a small restaurant on Elm Street – the encouragement and support from our guests gave us the inspiration and confidence to grow, and we decided to stay in McLean and move into a larger space.”

Pattie Kaewkunlaya, co-founder of SHŌ, said “we chose to open in McLean because of its strong sense of community and appreciation for culture, craftsmanship, and quality dining. From the beginning, our vision was to create more than a restaurant—we wanted a welcoming space where neighbors can gather to celebrate life’s milestones, share meaningful moments, or simply enjoy a glass of sake or wine together.”

As Restaurant Week approaches, residents and visitors can visit McLeanToday.org/RestaurantWeek to see this diverse mix of offerings.  Each participating restaurant will showcase a Restaurant Week special menu, which may include special prix fixe dinner offerings, discounts across their menu, free desserts and appetizers, and more. 

The MRC team encourages all McLean residents and visitors alike to come down to our McLean restaurants during Restaurant Week – and celebrate not only the great cuisine these restauranteurs offer, but also the tremendous commitment they have made to our community.

Peter Appel is Executive Vice President of the McLean Revitalization Corp (MRC)