After more than two years of anticipation, Wagamama appears to be preparing to open its Clarendon outpost.
Holes in the brown paper covering the windows reveal a mostly complete interior, with elaborate lighting fixtures and glowing point-of-sale system screens. A large “WAGAMAMA” sign can also be seen near the front entrance, ready to mount on the exterior.
ARLnow is told that employees expect the restaurant to officially open in June. The Clarendon location’s page on the Wagamama website, meanwhile, touts a “spring 2024” opening.
Originally expected to open in 2023, the restaurant has been beset by construction delays.
The British chain, known for its Japanese cuisine, is opening at 2950 Clarendon Blvd, which was formerly formerly home to Oz, a restaurant owned by “Real Housewives of Potomac” stars Ashley and Michael Darby.
Wagamama has more than 200 locations across 27 countries. The Arlington location is set to become the company’s eighth in the U.S. and first in the D.C. area, with others located in Dallas, Tampa, Boston and New York.
The restaurant’s menu includes salads, ramen, noodle and rice bowls, and curries.