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Sasha Felikson, an alum of Asian-inspired eatery Doi Moi, is now executive chef of the French-Mediterranean restaurant the founders of fast-casual chain Cava are opening later this summer in Bethesda, Maryland.
Bethesda Magazine reported on Felikson’s latest career change; the 2017 Rammy Award finalist for rising star chef of the year confirmed the news on his Facebook page.
Breaking with the build-your-own bowls and hummus-driven meals that have fueled Cava’s growth around the country, Julii (11915 Grand Park Avenue) will serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner fare including croissants, shakshuka, and roast chicken. The global comfort foods should work out for Felikson, who has tackled a range of cuisines during his time in D.C.
Soon after leaving Doi Moi, Felikson signed on to revamp Dacha Beer Garden’s menu and sprinkled in influences from the same Eastern European heritage he shares with the owners of the expanding Shaw enterprise. His consulting gig ended at the end of April, Dacha says. The budding beer garden (1600 Seventh Street NW), which has a huge location planned next to National Park, tells Eater it is no longer working with a consulting chef.
Julii, which is now scheduled to open on Saturday, September 15, will join the food-filled lineup at the Pike & Rose complex. The hospitality roster includes upscale bowling chain Pinstripes and the soon-to-open Jinya Ramen Bar — its third location in the D.C. area.
