Del Ray Says Goodbye To Caboose Cafe, Hello To Snackbar

ALEXANDRIA, VA—If you walk down Mount Vernon Avenue, you may know that Caboose Cafe no longer exists. But that doesn't mean Rhoda Worku's delicious Ethiopian offerings are gone for good.

Michelle and Scott Mitchell have opened Snackbar in the former Caboose Cafe location (2419 Mount Vernon Avenue) after Worku decided to retire. The business had a soft opening this week, serving up items like breakfast tacos and sandwiches.

Caboose Cafe had been a Del Ray staple since it opened in spring 2004. The business’s name is a nod to Del Ray’s railroad past and the Norfolk and Western red caboose that literally sits on the grounds across the street at the Mount Vernon Community School.

Worku may be retired, but she's working with the Snackbar owners to ensure her legacy lives on. Owner Scott Mitchell said Snackbar plans to continue offering many of Caboose's menu items. They are also working with Worku to keep holding Ethiopian dinner nights, a Caboose favorite.

Snackbar debuted its brand as the Mitchells held a grand opening at another new business, Forge Industrial Works at 128 South Royal Street in Old Town Alexandria. The store sells collections of industrial furniture, antiques, gifts, home accessories, jewelry and more based on the couple's findings at antique markets along the East Coast. The Mitchells also co-own Kaizen Tavern.

SEE ALSO: Forge Industrial Works Opens In Old Town Alexandria

For now, Snackbar is open for breakfast and lunch, closing at 3 p.m. for remodeling. Adding dinner hours and foods is in the works.

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Image via Patch staff