This regularly scheduled sponsored Q&A column is written by Eli Tucker, Arlington-based Realtor and Arlington resident. Please submit your questions to him via email for response in future columns. Video summaries of some articles can be found on YouTube on the Eli Residential channel. Enjoy!
I hope everybody had a great Memorial Day Weekend!
A few weeks ago the Eli Residential Group got together to explore Rosslyn’s new food hall and event space, Upside on Moore (and Salt cocktail bar). It’s a communal indoor/outdoor space in the heart of Rosslyn with nine different food and drink vendors to choose from and a variety of social and working spaces to use; somewhat similar to the newly opened Water Park in Crystal City/National Landing that we visited last year.
Each of us picked a vendor/restaurant we wanted to try, and we ordered food and drinks from each place over the course of the afternoon. We enjoyed everything we ordered and were pleasantly surprised to find a fun tiki bar on the large outdoor terrace that we added to our tour. Check out our photos and write-ups for each place we visited below!
Stop #1 (selected by Jean): The Bar at Upside on Moore
I selected the Bar at Upside for both the aesthetic and the beverages! The vibe inside is modern and inviting with plenty of seating at the bar, perfect for a quick cocktail, happy hour or a bite. I got the Rosslyn Ricky (super refreshing, I highly recommend on a summer day!)
We also ventured out to the outdoor terrace and Elli’s Island Tiki Bar (no relation to Eli!) Here we indulged in some fun tropical drinks and sat at the outdoor sofas. The tiki bar environment felt like a mini vacation away from reality! Weather permitting, this is an excellent spot for drinks with friends or coworkers or even date night.
Fun fact: Sommelier and mixologist Elli Benchimol, owner of Michelin-recognized Apéro in Georgetown curated the beverage menu!
Stop #2 (selected by Brian): Laoban Dumplings
With a big day of food and drink ahead of us, Laoban Dumplings provided a great starting point. We ordered a sampling of dumplings — Ginger Chicken, Pork & Chive, and Vegetable Dumplings (shitake and bok choy).
The texture and flavor of the handmade dumplings were spot-on, and the dipping sauce with chives added a nice flavor complement. Paired with a local Aslin IPA, and we were on our way.
Laoban’s menu also includes an array of noodle and vegetable dishes, but we were focused on trying the dumplings. Great start!
Stop #3 (selected by Val): La Michoacana
I chose Taqueria La Michoacana because tacos are one of my top five favorite foods! We ordered chicken and carnitas quesadillas, and a variety of tacos including chorizo, steak and birria (with the dipping broth) and they were packed with flavor, great size and the perfect heat. But the real star for me was the Guajillo octopus taco! Tender octopus slices with just the right amount of spice and tangy pickled onions. A must try for adventurous eaters! For dessert we indulged in churros with Dulce de Leche and chocolate sauce. The whole team loved them!
Stop #4 (selected by Carolanne): KAM & 46
At 9 months pregnant, Upside on Moore met all my various cravings, but I had to try out the Hawaiian-Phillipino fusion vendor, KAM & 46. With unique twists on some of my favorite comfort foods, they truly delivered on their “modern meets nostalgia” concept.
Ordering from the “shareables” selection, we chowed down on Nakakaloka Fries (who can pass up on French fries smothered in cotija cheese and chili aioli?) and Kalua Pork Nachos. The array of flavors sparked a happy dance for both mom and baby.
Though I was unable to imbibe in either drink or ahi tuna, I will definitely make a return visit!
Stop #5 (selected by Tonya): Ghostburger
What can I say, other than I am a burger girl! Given the opportunity to try out a new restaurant, burgers are one of my top two picks (a tie with tacos). Ghostburger didn’t disappoint! My favorite was the Barbie Girl, a pretty burger with the perfect combination of flavors.
Stop #6 (selected by Eli): salt
To finish the day, we walked across the street to a cocktail bar that everybody should visit, and that I consider a hidden gem not just for Arlington, but for the D.C. area. Anybody who knows Rosslyn will be shocked when they walk through the doors of salt into a dark, moody cocktail lounge that serves incredible, creative cocktails and excellent food. You’d be lucky to wander into salt in New York City so we should all be grateful to have such a great spot in our backyard.
I ordered (and loved) the Barrel Aged Maple Old Fashion, but Brian’s order of Free Smoke stole the show with the presentation of the drink. Even Carolanne (9 months pregnant) got to enjoy one of the well-crafted zero-proof cocktails.
If you haven’t visited salt, make sure to put it on your calendar soon!
If you’d like to discuss buying, selling, investing, or renting, don’t hesitate to reach out to me at [email protected].
If you’d like a question answered in my weekly column or to discuss buying, selling, renting, or investing, please send an email to [email protected]. To read any of my older posts, visit the blog section of my website at EliResidential.com. Call me directly at (703) 539-2529.
Video summaries of some articles can be found on YouTube on the Eli Residential channel.
Eli Tucker is a licensed Realtor in Virginia, Washington DC, and Maryland with RLAH Real Estate, 4040 N Fairfax Dr #10CA
