For those who enjoyed Vienna’s now-closed Zenola, Láylí Mediterranean is the newest addition from Chef Samer Zeitoun to Northern Virginia’s bustling dining scene.
Located in the heart of the Clarendon neighborhood, Láylí transports guests to the vibrant Mediterranean coast, offering inviting mezze cuisine and inventive beverages in a tranquil setting.
“It’s going to have a really nice vibe,” says co-owner and brother Walid Zeitoun. “We created a really beautiful garden with a lot of nice lighting … that creates an experience like you’re on vacation but you’re still five minutes away from home.”
The menu, crafted by chef Samer Zeitoun (formerly the chef-owner of NoVA’s highly praised Zenola) features traditional Lebanese cuisine inspired by his childhood alongside popular dishes from the broader Mediterranean region, including Turkey and Greece.
“Mostly I like to make for people what I like to eat,” Samer says.
In addition to classic favorites such as kibbeh nayeh, roasted eggplant, fattoush, falafel and hand-rolled grape leaves, Láylí will offer signature items such as beef tenderloin shawarma, hummus with duck confit, grilled whole branzino, and lamb shank. Its menu will rotate seasonally and is sourced locally, as much as possible.
Pair that with creatively curated craft cocktails like pistachio espresso martinis or orange blossom old fashioneds, Walid suggests. Láylí offers a wide variety of beers, wines, and cocktails that go nicely with the extensive hot and cold mezze and main entrée selections.
The 7,100-square-foot property has indoor and outdoor seating. The large patio is an inviting extension of the main dining room, and the owners say a DJ will enhance the outdoor experience. And if the restaurant’s soft opening is any indication, diners are giving Láylí a thumbs up.
“People love the atmosphere, they love what we created — they love the food, and our cocktail menu is on point,” Walid says. “I am confident that it’ll be a big hit.” 3033 Wilson Blvd., Clarendon
Feature image by Albert Ting
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