Alexandria Restaurant Partners (ARP) announced the kickoff Monday of the renovation of Joe Theismann’s Restaurant. The legendary restaurant, located at 1800A Diagonal Road, has been a fixture in Old Town for over three decades when it was launched by former Redskins quarterback star Joe Theismann.
The 7,800 square-foot space will undergo a new contemporary look, featuring a casual, modern energetic design, paired with an array of new menu items and favorite menu classics. In 2018, ARP bought an equity interest in the restaurant from Theismann.
Top: An after rendering of the bar area; bottom: the current set up.
"After 33 years of being a great Old Town institution that celebrated a lot of milestones and memories along the way, I am thrilled to share this new refresh of Theismann's with the next generation of Alexandrians and area visitors," said Joe Theismann. "What is amazing is that I still remember how this area was three decades ago when we decided to open this location, and I am excited to witness how this area has grown and evolved and the role Theismann's will play as a key restaurant anchor in the upper King Street corridor."
“With the new island bar we’re adding 20 draft beer taps, we know people will love that,” says Alexandria Restaurant Partner Dave Nicholas. “We’re also excited to highlight our evolving menu too. We’re always going to have our legendary steaks and burgers. But guests have responded really well to new items like our Pan-Seared Salmon, Tuna Poke Bowl, Beef Short Ribs, and Southern Fried Chicken Salad. They’re also loving our new Bottomless Mimosa and Bloody Mary bar for brunch. Having a beautiful new design will now give us a better showcase for our great food and service”
"We are thrilled to announce the next evolution of this great institution that has a phenomenal reputation and a great staff culture," said Scott Shaw of Alexandria Restaurant Partners. "Our focus is to continually give loyal customers a quality experience, while we introduce ourselves to a new generation of diners who seek restaurants that have an energetic vibe and that will also offer great game time viewing options for those special sports moments.”
During Renovations: JT Pop-Up Bar
When the renovations kick off this week, the location will launch a ‘pop-up bar’ and dining area, featuring happy hour specials and all your favorite Theismann's dishes. “Our regulars can still enjoy Theismann’s during the revamp and be a part of the construction fun in a creative way,” said Dave Nicholas.
The 'new' Theismann's will host a bash in mid-September to celebrate the 100th season of the NFL and Joe Theismann’s 70th birthday, showcasing the new, contemporary decor.