McLean is about to get a little more coastal, at least at dinnertime. Surfside Taco Stand, the beach-themed fast-casual spot known for late-night lines in D.C., is headed to 6218 Old Dominion Drive in the Chesterbrook Shopping Center. Paperwork filed for the site indicates the operator plans to serve cocktails and share the standalone building with the recently opened Sweetgreen next door. Locals can look forward to tropical margaritas on tap, tacos named after far-flung beach towns, and a ceiling lined with surfboards once the new outpost opens.
Liquor License Points to Boozy Beach Vibes
What Now DC reports that Surfside has applied for a liquor license with the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Board, a key step toward pouring margaritas and sangria on tap in McLean. The outlet cites a release previewing a menu of tacos, quesadillas, and burritos named for spots like Cozumel, Port Antonio, and Malibu, plus a dining room capped by a ceiling lined with vintage surfboards. According to the same report, the McLean restaurant would be the chain’s fifth location overall.
From Former Bank to Taco Stand
According to FFXnow, Surfside’s McLean unit is slated for 6218 Old Dominion Drive, in the standalone building where Sweetgreen opened at 6220 Old Dominion Drive. Fairfax County staff are reviewing renovation plans for the space. A county application calls for an enclosed, 391-square-foot dining patio, which suggests the restaurant will offer indoor seating along with takeaway service. FFXnow notes that the building previously housed a Truist Bank, so the surfboards will be a noticeable upgrade from teller windows.
Surfside’s D.C. Roots Run Deep
The brand’s website says Surfside has been part of the D.C. dining landscape since 2008, with locations in Tenleytown, Dupont Circle, and The Wharf, plus a seasonal outpost in Nantucket. Its mix of fresh-Mex staples, frozen cocktails, and retro surf decor has built a loyal, often late-night following. McLean diners can expect the same formula to carry over to the new spot. Surfside
Chesterbrook’s Makeover Sets the Stage
Patch reports that Chesterbrook Shopping Center has been in the middle of a multi-year renovation and has added national and regional food brands as part of an $8.5 million facelift. That investment and tenant shuffle, from Sweetgreen to other local and regional eateries, helps explain why a beachy, counter-service concept like Surfside is rolling in now.
When McLean Might Get Its Tacos
Surfside has not announced an opening date yet. What Now DC reports that it has reached out to Surfside’s ownership for more details, and the Virginia ABC liquor license application remains the clearest public sign that an opening may be close. If Fairfax County signs off on the permits and the ABC application is approved, construction and build-out could speed up through the spring. Expect more concrete timing once the restaurant issues an official opening announcement, and we will update readers when that happens.
