Two major shifts are unfolding along Mount Vernon Avenue this summer, and long-time Del Ray residents will notice the difference immediately. First Thursday is being organized by a new organization for the first time in nearly thirty years. At the same time, the corridor between the 1500 and 2000 blocks is undergoing a rapid revitalization – featuring a newly rebranded local favorite, a brand-new dining concept, and a highly anticipated taproom preparing for its final inspection.
For locals who already know Pat Miller Neighborhood Square and the Saturday farmers' market, here is a breakdown of what actually changed along the Avenue this summer.
The Handoff Nobody Announced Loudly
For nearly three decades, the Del Ray Business Association founded and produced First Thursday. This year, the Del Ray Citizens Association officially took over organizing duties for the beloved event series.
This transition marks a meaningful structural shift. While a merchant association hosts events to drive foot traffic into local storefronts, a civic association focuses on fostering community connection. This year's programming reflects that civic focus, featuring free, family-friendly monthly events from 5 to 8 p.m., including May's "It's A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood" (sponsored by Alexandria Hyundai), June's "Field Day" (sponsored by the Del Ray Farmers Market), and July's "America 250" (sponsored by The Jen Walker Team).
"The Del Ray Business Association is very excited that the Del Ray Citizens Association is continuing this long-time community tradition," said Lauren Fisher, president of the Business Association.
Although this season is finished, be sure to check the event calendar next spring for the 2027 lineup.
Three Restaurants That Changed Between April and July
The dining scene along Mount Vernon Avenue is evolving through a series of thoughtful transitions, all situated within a five-minute walk of Pat Miller Neighborhood Square.
Address | Was | Is Now | Timing |
|---|---|---|---|
1504B Mount Vernon Ave | Benny DiForza's | Little Birdie | Opened June 2026 |
2003 Mount Vernon Ave | Vacant | Crooked Run Fermentation (Del Ray) | Building permit issued; opening "pretty imminent" |
Del Ray Pizzeria's building (1908 structure) | Del Ray Pizzeria | Del Ray Public House | Rebranded March 2026 |
Located at 1504B Mount Vernon Avenue – directly across from popular brunch destination Matt & Tony's – Little Birdie occupies the former Benny DiForza's space. Brought to you by the team behind Matt & Tony's, Little Birdie introduces a distinct new concept focusing on gourmet chicken sandwiches served on Japanese milk buns, with prices ranging from $12 to $16 for shared plates and entrées in the low $20s.
Led by Matt Sloan, former managing partner of Alexandria Restaurant Partners (the group behind local staples like The Majestic, Mia's Italian Kitchen, and Ada's on the River), Little Birdie significantly expands high-caliber dining expertise in Del Ray. Notably, sister restaurant Matt & Tony's continues its strong momentum as a 2026 RAMMY Award finalist for Best Brunch.
Meanwhile, Del Ray Pizzeria has officially rebranded as Del Ray Public House. While retaining its team and iconic neighborhood location, the updated concept introduces roadhouse-inspired comfort dishes alongside signature pizzas. Highlights include Tuesday night Country Fried Steak specials and a 32-ounce Four Corners Feast for Two, giving longtime patrons fresh reasons to visit.
The Crooked Run Question
The upcoming addition of Crooked Run Fermentation at 2003 Mount Vernon Avenue marks an exciting shift for the neighborhood's evening energy.
Having recently secured building permits, the founders of Crooked Run Fermentation are preparing for an imminent opening. Originating in Leesburg in 2013 and expanding to Sterling and Washington, D.C., the craft producer will offer craft beers, natural wines, ciders, and seltzers.
While Del Ray enjoys established beverage spots like Hops N Shine and Aslin Beer Company, Crooked Run fills a key spatial gap in the 2000 block, connecting Pat Miller Square with dining destinations farther north. The location will also feature a food menu centered on buttermilk chicken tenders with house-made hot honey mustard, as well as vegetarian options.
A Weekend Itinerary That Takes Advantage of Second Saturday on the Avenue
- Thursday or Friday, 8 p.m., dinner. Little Birdie is now open at 1504B. Its hours are approachable. The proposed hours at Little Birdie are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sunday to Thursday, and 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., Friday to Saturday.
- After dinner, a nightcap at The Garden (1503 Mt Vernon) or a set at The Birchmere at 3701 Mt Vernon. Check out their calendar of upcoming acts here.
- Saturday morning, farmers' market at the corner of Mount Vernon Avenue and E. Oxford Street. A Del Ray staple for 30 years!
- Second Saturday: add the Vintage & Flea. The Del Ray Vintage & Flea Market, named the BEST flea market in the state by Domino magazine, takes place the second Saturday of every month from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., with over 50 vendors at three locations along Mount Vernon Avenue.
- Saturday afternoon, wander north. The 2003 block is the interesting question for the rest of the summer. When Crooked Run's doors open, this is where the route will change.
What Stays the Same
The scaffolding of a Del Ray summer has not moved. If anything, this year's churn makes the fixtures easier to appreciate.
- The Saturday farmers' market at Mt Vernon Ave & E Oxford St, year-round, weekly.
- The Del Ray Vintage & Flea Market, second Saturday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Weekly rhythms off the calendar: trivia at The Garden and at Dive Bar Del Ray (2312 Mt Vernon Ave), a free themed wine tasting at Planet Wine Shop, 2004 Mt Vernon Ave, from 5 to 8 p.m., with 10% off bottles of the tasting wines to take home, game night at The Company of Books at 2200 Mt Vernon Ave.
- Del Ray Hardware, the 2026 Heart of Del Ray, a walkable, dog-friendly hardware and garden shop on Mount Vernon Avenue.
What truly sets this summer apart is the growing commercial density along Mount Vernon Avenue. Together, new dining concepts, community-led events, and added taproom destinations make the corridor more walkable and vibrant than ever. Whether you are enjoying established neighborhood traditions or exploring new local spots, Del Ray continues to strengthen its reputation as one of Alexandria's most dynamic communities.
Thinking about a home project this fall or curious about real estate trends in Del Ray? Reach out to Corcoran McEnearney to Request a Local Market Consultation.
