Floriana to Close DC Location on December 31 After 47 Years

Key points

• The restaurant’s final day of service at 1602 17th Street, NW, is set for December 31, 2026.
• Floriana Nestore established the dining establishment in 1979, making the closure the end of a nearly five-decade run in the capital.
• The business is moving to a new location in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, rather than ceasing operations entirely.
• The venue has served as a gathering place for local celebrations, Pride events, and neighborhood traditions over its history.
• Management cited the decision to leave the historic home as difficult but necessary for a new chapter in the business.

Background

This closure marks the end of a significant era for the Dupont Circle neighborhood, which has seen various local institutions evolve or close in recent years. While unrelated to the broader astrological shifts or sports management changes noted in recent archives, the departure of a 47-year-old staple reflects the changing landscape of Washington, DC’s dining scene. The move to Virginia mirrors trends where established DC brands seek new markets or lower-cost operations outside the city limits.

Why it matters

The departure of Floriana signals a shift in the Dupont Circle dining landscape, removing a historic venue that served as a community hub for nearly half a century. The relocation to Alexandria indicates a strategic move to maintain the brand’s presence while adapting to new operational realities, potentially impacting local employment and neighborhood identity in DC while boosting the commercial profile of Old Town Alexandria.

What to watch

Patrons have until December 31, 2026, to dine at the current location. Following the closure, the brand is expected to open its new chapter in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia. The specific opening date for the Virginia location has not been disclosed in the current announcement.