Masseria to open in D.C. this summer

PHOTO: Chef Nick Stefanelli courtesy of Masseria

Washington, D.C.’s hipster favorite destination Union Market has become a strong competitor to CityCenterDC development as the “place to be” for new Chefs. Dolcezza, Bon Appetit magazine’s favorite gelato place in the country, started at Union Market and on the weekends nary a spot for even breathing can be found.

The latest entrant to this cultish scene is Masseria, the first restaurant of former Bibiana Chef Nick Stefanelli, to open this summer in the aforementioned Union Market.

Taking his Puglia Italian heritage, as well as his "Rising Star" nomination from the James Beard Foundation, Chef Stefanelli aspires to add heartfelt charm to the D.C.’s fine dining scene. Coastal cuisine with be the guiding light with a quietly intimate 60 seats providing the gutterly raw backdrop of a simple Italian country estate for the cuisine.

As someone who is passionately devoted to the Italian lifestyle and culture, I can only hope Masseria will provide a much needed access point to the coastal cuisine of Italy to Washington, D.C.

Stay tuned for additional details as well as the full menu from Chef Stefanelli and his skillful team – comprised of General Manager and Advanced Sommelier David Kurka, formerly of Brabo and CityZen, and head bartender Julien-Pierre Bourgon of the acclaimed cocktail lounge PX.