Press

A casual new neighborhood bar serving New York-style pizza, smash burgers, cheesy crab fries, and generous "Vegas-style" portions of chicken Parm opened in Arlington, Virginia, over the weekend. Ballston Local (900 N. Glebe Road) comes from Jason Johnston, the opening executive chef at MGM National Harbor, and business partner Jonah Troth. Opening day was Saturday, May 1. Dinner is available on weekdays, and the Ballston bar opens at noon on weekends.

This casual new neighborhood spot in Arlington opened in May for New York-style pizza, smash burgers, cheesy crab fries, and generous "Vegas-style" portions of chicken Parm. All the bar snacks at Ballston Local come from chef Jason Johnston, who was opening executive chef at MGM National Harbor. There are draft beers from small Virginia brewers, seltzers, hard cider, and adult milkshakes spiked with bourbon, vodka, or rum.

Ballston Local brings a new element of comfort food to Arlington, Virginia. The 3,900-square-foot space featuring a 32-seat patio and about 140 seats inside opened on May 1, with a menu providing classic comfort foods such as Brooklyn-style pizza, juicy burgers and loaded sandwiches. Co-owners Jason Johnston and Jonah Troth drove the creation of Ballston Local - a "merging of two different skill sets," according to Troth. Johnston leads with 30 years of culinary experience including as the executive chef of MGM National Harbor and the Bellagio in Las Vegas. Troth, a former brewer, brings a passion for beer, spirits, and attention to detail and process. Starting and building successful companies was a strength for Troth after 18 years in Silicon Valley.

BALLSTON LOCAL: New to the area and already a 'Must Stop'! Order from the counter or head straight to the bar. Enjoy New York style pizza, burgers, local craft beers and cocktails. A fun hangout at this casual dining meeting spot.