BLT to add third restaurant in DC

In addition to the forthcoming BLT Burger (at 1317 Connecticut Ave. NW), the Washington Post reports that the BLT national franchise is planning a third restaurant, Casa Nonna, for downtown.  Casa Nonna, a hearty Italian themed version, will take over the space formerly occupied by California Pizza Kitchen at 1250 Connecticut Ave. NW.

According to the Post, Casa Nonna stands for ‘House of the Grandmother’ and will resemble Carmine’s eateries in New York.  Pastas will be available in a multitude of serving sizes to facilitate family style dining, and main courses will include classics like shrimp scampi and chicken saltimbocca.  Prices will average $18 to $20 for entrees. Lunch and dinner will be served daily.

Despite it’s status as a chain restaurant, BLT Steak is one of our favorites here in town.  The service simply cannot be beat – and the preparation of the food is close to perfect as well.  We’re interested to see what they can do for the Italian restaurant niche which has largely been dominated by small pizza places and the likes of Buca di Beppo.  There are of course a few exceptions there (Filmomena and iRicchi, for example, are strong in quality), but we’re optimistic BLT will help revitalize some of the older standbys in town as well.