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Three-Tier Bar Wilson Hardware Greets Clarendon With Booze and Pizza Fritters

Ri Ra replacement debuts September 8

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The main bar at Wilson Hardware.
Photo: Dominique Fierro

Wilson Hardware, the new three-story bar that’s rocking leaf-print walls and candle-lit vibes in a historic location, is offering up its rooftop as one more place to soak up the waning days of summer.

The 7,000-square-foot restaurant and lounge, scheduled to open tonight in Arlington, Virginia (2915 Wilson Boulevard), is an ode to Virginia Hardware, the hardware shop that occupied the same spot for nearly half a century.

The space most recently housed now-shuttered corporate Irish pub Ri Ra. Design firm Swatchroom added a papier-mâché mural to an the exposed brick wall, fabric-and-leather banquettes, and glass-encased candles. Three different bar areas include a 27-foot-long quartz-top rail on the main level, a mezzanine lounge, and a tile bar on the rooftop.

Opening menu items include: crab dip, panzerotti — which is described as fried pizza dough stuffed with cheese and marinara sauce — gourmet burgers, duck confit, and steak frites.

Beverage options include: classic cocktails (dark and stormy, mint juleps): specialty slushies like the Blueprint, blending rosé, vodka, ancho chile, and mint; red, white, and sparkling wines; and local brews.

Status: Opening at 5 p.m. 2915 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, Va.; website.

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