Prolific Sports Bar Developer’s Westernmost Eatery Arrives Next Month

Rockwood, the casual restaurant Northern Virginia chef and serial sports bar creator Mike Cordero plans to stock with chicken fritters and red velvet milkshakes, is now scheduled to open by mid-April at the Virginia Gateway shopping complex in Gainesville, Virginia.

Cordero co-owns and operates a number of come-as-you-are establishments in the immediate area, including Clarendon newcomer G.O.A.T., assorted other properties in Arlington [Don Tito, Barley Mac, Bronx Pizza, A-Town], Don Taco in Alexandria, and TV-packed Primetime in Fairfax. The latest venture, which is moving into a space formerly occupied by chain restaurant Ruby Tuesday’s (7505 Iron Bar Lane), is projected to feature multiple outdoor patios, glowing fire pits, and a dedicated beer garden.

During a recent exchange on social media, management asked for suggestions about what Gainesville diners want to see on the forthcoming menu. The requests ranged from Southern standards (shrimp and grits, oyster po’boys) and Mid-Atlantic favorites (Old Bay-spiced wings) to the trendiest food around: avocado toast.

Based on the information a company spokeswoman shared with Eater, everybody is way off. Per a publicist for Rockwood, the “American comfort food with a funky twist” projected to flow out of Cordero’s newest kitchen includes bacon-chicken fritters with chipotle radish sauce, Cuban sandwiches layered with pork belly, and gourmet milkshakes.

New Sports Bar G.O.A.T. Is a Win for Arlington [EDC]

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