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One of Old Town Alexandria's longest-standing dining institutions is changing hands and getting a new look.
The Majestic, a King Street fixture since 1932, remains open during the transition as Chef Santiago Lopez prepares to officially relaunch the restaurant Friday, April 10. Lopez has purchased the restaurant from Alexandria Restaurant Partners and is debuting a reimagined menu, a new cocktail program and a redesigned interior.
"This restaurant has always been special to this community, and my goal is to create a place that feels familiar and welcoming, but also exciting and intentional," Lopez said. "I've poured myself into every part of it — from the food to the atmosphere, focusing on bright, balanced flavors and thoughtful ingredients to create a place that feels welcoming, exciting, and worth returning to again and again."
A classically French-trained chef who spent 16 years growing within ARP, Lopez's menu centers on New American cuisine with Mediterranean influences, drawing on ingredients such as preserved lemons, cumin, sumac, za'atar and fresh herbs. Dinner offerings include Saffron P.E.I. Mussels, Duck and Pancetta Dumplings, Lobster Pot Pie with preserved lemon, and Roasted Lamb Shank with mascarpone polenta. Legacy items including the Majestic Burger and Steak Frites remain.
The restaurant will also serve lunch, weekend brunch and weekday happy hour. Brunch highlights include Chicken and Waffles with hot honey, Braised Brisket Hash and Smoked Salmon Benedict.
The cocktail program features signature drinks including the Saffron Spritz and Margarita Alla Caipirinha, alongside a wine list and classic spirits.
Interiors have been refreshed with hunter green, gold and burgundy tones, custom murals, statement lighting and gallery-style artwork. A ceiling mural anchors a redesigned foyer, and a vintage mirror sourced from a neighboring King Street business serves as a focal point at the bar.
"I truly love The Majestic. It's an institution in Old Town," Lopez told Northern Virginia Magazine. "I think I can make a difference at The Majestic with the food, with the ambience and service."
The Majestic is located at 911 King St. Hours are Monday through Friday, 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Saturday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Weekend brunch runs 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and happy hour is offered weekdays from 3 to 7 p.m. For more information, visit themajesticva.com.
ARP continues to operate a portfolio of restaurants across the region and in Florida, including Ada's on the River, Barca Pier & Wine Bar, Vola's Dockside Grill and Palette 22, among others.
