Ala restaurant sets opening date in Bethesda

The new, second location of D.C.'s Ala restaurant in Bethesda now has an opening date. It will begin operation on Friday, March 1, 2024 in the former Positano Ristorante Italiano building at 4948 Fairmont Avenue. Featuring the cuisine of the Levant region of the Middle East, Ala is owned by Bethesda resident Deniz Gulluoglu, and the kitchen will be helmed by native Maryland chef Zachary Baker. 

Among Baker's specialities on a menu that draws from the culinary traditions of nations like Turkey, Syria, Israel and Lebanon will be mutabal, biber dolma, and adana kebab. Ala's wine list will feature selections from Georgia (the country, not the state), Israel, Lebanon, and Italy. Cocktails will employ turmeric, sumac, fig, rhubarb and dill. A bottomless brunch will be offered on weekends, and the restaurant will host a happy hour from 2:00 to 6:00 PM, Monday through Thursday.

The 90-seat dining room will retain many elements of the decor from Positano. "When the time came for Positano to undergo a renovation, AAG Interiors approached the task with reverence and respect for the memories that had been woven into its walls," Jelal Gulluoglu, owner and architect, AAG Interiors said in a statement. "It was very important for us to understand the significance of preserving the essence of Positano while creating the space for ala’s new location." New additions include new lighting, renovated restrooms, and an expanded bar with seating. For those who prefer al fresco dining, 30 seats will be available on the patio - weather permitting.

At a time when many Americans are cutting back on restaurant dining, Ala will be welcoming the community by reducing the cost of eating out. First-month customers will receive 30%-off on their dining check, and a parking reimbursement discount will offered for each reservation. "We have always wanted to open a second restaurant closer to our home, in our community," Deniz Gulluoglu said. "Bethesda restaurants offer an array of culinary flavors, and we are thrilled to offer the community Ala Bethesda, an exceptional Levantine dining experience, in the heart of Bethesda."

Photos courtesy funfoodgroup