The highly anticipated Solaire Social, the first of two upcoming food halls in downtown Silver Spring, will open this Friday, May 17.
The 13,000-square-foot dining destination and bar, designed by Philadelphia’s Eimer Design, is located on the ground floor of the 27-story, 403-unit Solaire 8200 Dixon apartment building. Solaire Social’s curated collection of nine artisan concepts was handpicked by chef and restaurateur Akhtar Nawab of Brooklyn, N.Y.-based Hospitality HQ.
According to a press release, Solaire Social features a 40-seat bar, an entertainment stage, and a carefully curated selection of food vendors representing the diverse culinary fabric of Silver Spring, ranging from fried chicken to sushi, Thai, Indian, and Brazilian cuisine, as well as a butcher and deli, and an African-inspired ice cream shop:
Just Chicken: Co-founders, childhood friends, and Chief Tender Lovers, D’Andre and Mike, found their passion in the food and hospitality industry. With Just Chicken, the fellas wanted something that would be easy to cook up and fun to make without sacrificing quality or flavor. That’s when Just Chicken was born. @eatjustchicken
Kabab 2 Go: A family-owned and operated restaurant from Charlotte, NC. After immigrating from Lebanon and living more than a decade in the “queen city” they decided to bring their expertise in snacks shops and the restaurant business to the United States. The food is seasoned and prepared with the best imported spices coming straight from Lebanon and freshly made daily. @Kabab2Go
Kati Roll Wala: Pankaj Kumar, founder of Kati Roll Wala, devised the concept while he was working from home and his kids were in home school. He wanted to eat quick and easy foods with protein, and made Kati Rolls, which are Indian flatbread wraps. Wala Bowls are full of veggies with a protein on a bed of basmati rice or salad. The kids loved it, and Kati Roll and Wala Bowls became Kati Roll Wala. @katirollwala
Pau & Sophia’s Thai Kitchen: Making their debut is this new Thai restaurant that gives diners the opportunity to try a variety of Northern and Southern Thai specialties.
Shuga x Ice: A unique, African-inspired ice cream company, brought to life by the passion and vision of its founder, Ndidiamaka Agu. After experiencing a turning point in her life, Ndidi decided to make her dream of creating an ice cream business a reality. Their ice cream is a celebration of the rich, diverse flavors of Africa, bringing a unique dessert experience to the Solaire Social Food Hall. @shugaxice
SOKO and SOKO Oysters: In addition to operating the venue’s oyster bar, SOKO Oysters, chef Brad Feickert operates the second location of this local favorite Takoma Park butcher shop and deli. Soko showcases locally sourced meats and has a commitment to sourcing from sustainable farms. @sokobutcher
Fire Pit Brazilian Barbecue: Fire Pit is created, managed and operated by a family of Southern Brazilians who keep their culture and traditions alive by offering a full experience of Gaúcho-Brazilian Barbecue at an affordable price within a quick service concept. Fire Pit was featured in a recent episode of the WETA TV series Signature Dish. @firepit.brbbq
Manna Sushi: Ciin Deih Lun specializes in sushi preparation under the Hissho brand. In addition, he collaborates with ACE Sushi Company, and his experience spans aspects of sushi making from traditional to innovative.
Solaire Social is located on the ground floor of the Solaire 8200 Dixon apartment building in downtown Silver Spring. The food hall’s hours of operation are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Parking is available at the Bonifant-Dixon Garage.
Photos by Scott Schuman for Solaire Social