Noted Chef Opens Carbonara: Old School Italian & Wine Bar In Ballston

ARLINGTON, VA — Carbonara: Old School Italian & Wine Bar, Chef Mike Cordero's latest restaurant venture, opened Monday in the Ballston Gateway building, bringing traditional Italian dishes and wine to Arlington residents.

The 4,000-square-foot indoor and outdoor restaurant features a substantial menu, offering such Italian classics as eggplant pollatini parmigiana, zesty Italian sandwiches, tiramisus and savory chicken, veal and seafood dishes. Diners will also find wide selection of Italian wines to pair with their meals.

“Carbonara’s interiors are a series of transitional spaces where old world Italian meets new world,” said Cordero, who serves as the restaurant's executive chef. "The Caesar-inspired ambience that combines my old school menu concept with a twist truly provides patrons an exceptional Italian experience.”

Cordero is best known for his previous restaurant ventures Taco Rock, Rockwood and Bronson Bier Hall. He and Cordero Hospitality restaurant group, which includes Cordero's sons Nick and Anthony, will operate the a 150-seat eatery, which includes a 1,500-square-foot patio that accommodates up to 50 guests with six outdoor tables and two Alfresco Bars.

Carbonara: Old School Italian & Wine Bar is located at 3865 Wilson Blvd. at the corner of Wilson Boulevard and North Pollard Street.