7 new concepts in the mid-Atlantic region

The coming of Spring is bringing new restaurant openings around the mid-Atlantic region. In the Washington, D.C.-area alone, new concepts include the highly anticipated rooftop restaurant and bar Smoke and Mirrors; the buzzy Japanese spot Shoto; and a whimsical new American restaurant called Newland.

In the Maryland suburbs, the plant-based restaurant Planta sprouts with its first location in the region. In Falls Church, Va., veteran chef Thomas Harvey opened his first concept Harveys.

Further south, NBA and University of Virginia legend Ralph Sampson has joined forces with Thompson Hospitality to open Ralph Sampson’s American Tap Room, an upscale sports bar in Charlottesville, Va.

“Top Chef” alum Katsuji Tanabe opened A’Verde in Cary, N.C. showcasing traditional and unique Mexican flavors not commonly seen in the South, with a vegetable-heavy menu using the region’s seasonal ingredients.

Here’s what’s new across the mid-Atlantic.