Family-Owned Lebanese Restaurant Zenola Closes In Vienna

VIENNA, VA — Zenola, a family-owned Lebanese restaurant, has bid farewell to Vienna.

The restaurant at the Danor Plaza, 132 Branch Rd. SE, Vienna, VA, announced on its website it was closed. The Zeitoun family had opened the restaurant in fall 2019.

"Unfortunately, due to the lasting business effects of the COVID pandemic, increasingly higher rent payments with little landlord flexibility and the changing landscape of the restaurant industry, we have come to this difficult decision," the owners stated. "This was not an easy choice, as it means saying goodbye to a place that holds many memories and successes within its walls."

The family will "rest and regroup" after the closure but will try to continue offering Zenola's menu items in a different way in the coming months.

The business owners thanked customers for sharing their memories at the restaurant and encouraged continued support for small businesses.

"We cannot express enough how grateful we are for your loyalty and for choosing us as your go-to spot for celebrations, casual dinners, and even those quiet moments when you needed a comforting meal," the owners said. "We will forever cherish the memories created within these walls and the relationships forged through shared meals and conversations."

Fans of Lebanese food can continue to get takeout from Beirut Cafe at 409 Maple Ave. W. In addition, family-owned traditional Lebanese restaurant El Janna is expected to open in the fall at the Vienna Shopping Center.