El Mercat Bar de Tapas to Open Second Restaurant in the DMV at Westpost at National Landing

Neighborhood Adds Spanish Flair to International Flavors 

Federal Realty Investment Trust (NYSE:FRT) announces El Mercat Bar de Tapas (El Mercat) will open its second restaurant in the DMV, first in Northern Virginia, at Westpost at National Landing in Arlington, Va., in early 2025.

The 4,059 square-foot restaurant, located at 1301 S. Joyce Street will feature shareable, seasonal and house made dishes including traditional Spanish tapas, paellas, and a Chef’s Tasting Menu, as well as sangria, wines and Spanish beers. The restaurant will have 142 seats and eight ADA seats, including patio space. Its first location is located at Rockville Town Square in Rockville, Md.

“El Mercat brings a taste of Spain to the Westpost neighborhood,” said Chef George Rodrigues.  “I’ve been wanting to open a second location and Westpost is the perfect location in Northern Virginia for our cuisine, flavors and lively culture.”

Also joining Westpost’s dining destinations is Bees & Tea, which will be located at the “jewel box” in the Westpost Plaza. Bees & Tea will feature milk tea, fruit tea, boba and small sushi bites and will open in late summer 2024.

“Westpost is one of the area’s most dynamic dining destinations, featuring restaurants rooted in international cuisines to appeal to every palate,” said Vanessa Mendoza of Federal. “El Mercat and Bees & Tea complement this mix, and we welcome both restaurants to the neighborhood.”

“We are thrilled to announce the grand opening of Bees & Tea,” said Jessica Arbaugh, owner, Bees & Tea. “After successfully incubating the concept at Asia Bistro for the past five years, we are excited to offer our fresh, handcrafted boba tea, Vietnamese bánh mì sandwiches, teriyaki, and delightful sweets in a dedicated space at the center of the Westpost courtyard. Our journey at Westpost began 23 years ago with the opening of Saigon Saigon, followed by Asia Bistro. The opening of Bees & Tea is a natural extension of our deep-rooted connection to Arlington and the Westpost community. We are committed to continuing our tradition of exceptional service and high-quality products that our customers have come to expect.”

The amenity-rich neighborhood includes Cathal Armstrong’s Mattie & Eddie’s, Kusshi Sushi, Banditos Tacos & Tequila, Mimi’s Handmade Ice Cream and Nighthawk Pizza & Brewery. Westpost also features Sip & Stroll where patrons can take their favorite beverages to-go, and sip, stroll and shop in the neighborhood.

Westpost at National Landing:

Located within the National Landing district and near Amazon’s new headquarters campus, Westpost is a vibrant shopping and entertainment destination with a unique combination of specialty retailers, exciting restaurants and amenities that include a central plaza with outdoor dining and season activations including a Makers Market (April through October) and ice skating rink (November through March). Truly a neighborhood gathering place for the residents of more than 500 apartment homes surrounding the neighborhood. Visit https://westpostva.com/

About Federal Realty:

Federal Realty is a recognized leader in the ownership, operation and redevelopment of high-quality retail-based properties located primarily in major coastal markets from Washington, D.C. to Boston as well as San Francisco and Los Angeles. Founded in 1962, Federal Realty’s mission is to deliver long-term, sustainable growth through investing in communities where retail demand exceeds supply. Its expertise includes creating urban, mixed-use neighborhoods like Santana Row in San Jose, California, Pike & Rose in North Bethesda, Maryland and Assembly Row in Somerville, Massachusetts. These unique and vibrant environments that combine shopping, dining, living and working provide a destination experience valued by their respective communities. Federal Realty’s 102 properties include approximately 3,300 tenants in 26 million commercial square feet, and approximately 3,100 residential units.

Federal Realty has increased its quarterly dividends to its shareholders for 56 consecutive years, the longest record in the REIT industry. Federal Realty is an S&P 500 index member and its shares are traded on the NYSE under the symbol FRT. For additional information about Federal Realty and its properties, visit www.federalrealty.com.