Originally published in Washingtonian
Dolcezza Gelato & Coffee is venturing to the savory side at Mom & Pop, the newest addition to the Mosaic District’s quickly-growing dining scene. The glass-enclosed restaurant is a collaboration between Dolcezza’s husband-and-wife owners Robb Duncan and Violeta Edelman—the couple have two daughters, hence the name—and a variety of local producers including Red Apron Butchery and Righteous Cheese.
Located just outside the Angelika Theatre, the all-day concept is meant to cater to the development’s many movie-goers and shoppers, workers and residents. The menu centers around quick-grab pastries, sandwiches, and snacks, as well as shareable boards and a small bar list for those looking to linger. Morning customers can order Stumptown coffee drinks, pastries from Paisley Fig by Room 11, and Whisked! quiches, while afternoon brings Red Apron sandwiches such as spicy pimento grilled cheese or smoked chicken salad. Dessert seekers can head to the freezer for Dolcezza’s seasonal variety of gelatos and push pops.
The full menu will roll out over the opening week, and grow to include a number of wooden boards carrying sandwiches and nibbles. Guests can grab a table and snack on antipasto such as olives and chickpeas tossed with chorizo vinaigrette, or a mix of cured meats and cheeses. A handful of red, white, and sparkling wines on tap wash it all down, alongside a few local brews.
Mom & Pop. 2909 District Ave., Fairfax; 703-992-0050. Open Monday through Thursday, 7 am to 11 pm; Friday 7 to midnight; Saturday 8 to midnight; Sunday 8 to 10.
