12 Locations, One Family: Your Ultimate Guide to Lebanese Taverna in the DMV
Since 1979, the Lebanese Taverna family has been more than just a collection of restaurants; we’ve been a part of the fabric of the DMV (DC, Maryland, and Virginia). What started as a small family dream by Tanyos and Marie Abi-Najm has blossomed into a beloved local institution with 12 unique locations.Whether you’re looking for an elegant night out with a full mezze spread, a quick and healthy lunch on the go, or a trip through a traditional Middle Eastern market, we’ve got a spot for you. Our mission has always been simple: to share the warmth of Lebanese hospitality and the authentic flavors of our homeland with our neighbors. And yes, for our friends following specific dietary traditions, you’ll be happy to know that all of our meats are halal-certified.Let’s take a tour of our 12 locations across the region and help you find your "home away from home."
The Full-Service Experience: Family Recipes, Modern Vibes
Our full-service restaurants are the heart of Lebanese Taverna. This is where the magic of the traditional Lebanese "Table" comes to life. It’s about slowing down, sharing small plates (mezze), and enjoying the company of family and friends in a contemporary, warm setting.
1. Arlington (Westover)
This is where it all began! Our Westover location holds a special place in our hearts. It’s cozy, neighborhood-focused, and carries the legacy of the original 1979 spirit. It’s the perfect spot for a Sunday dinner or a casual weeknight meal where everybody knows your name.
2. Pentagon City
Located right in the hustle and bustle of Arlington’s shopping district, our Pentagon City location is a vibrant oasis. After a long day of retail therapy at the mall, there’s nothing better than tucking into a plate of Mshwy (mixed grill) and some hot, puffy pita bread. It’s bright, airy, and always buzzing with energy.
3. McLean (Tysons)
If you’re looking for a slightly more sophisticated atmosphere, our McLean location at Tysons Galleria is the place to be. It’s an ideal spot for business lunches or a refined evening out. The décor is modern and sleek, but the food remains rooted in the same family recipes we’ve used for decades.
4. Washington, DC (Woodley Park)
Nestled right near the National Zoo, our Woodley Park location is a DC staple. It’s a favorite for locals and tourists alike. There’s something special about enjoying a meal on our outdoor patio on a warm DC evening, watching the world go by on Connecticut Avenue. It’s historic, charming, and a true landmark of the city's dining scene.
5. Rockville (Congressional Plaza)
For our Maryland fans, the Rockville location at Congressional Plaza offers a spacious and welcoming environment. It’s a hub for families in Montgomery County. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick lunch or bringing the whole extended family for a celebration, we have plenty of room and a menu that pleases every generation.
6. Baltimore (Harbor East)
Dining by the water adds a whole new level of relaxation to the Lebanese Taverna experience. Our Harbor East location in Baltimore combines stunning waterfront views with our signature hospitality. It’s one of the most beautiful spots in the city to enjoy a glass of Lebanese wine and a spread of hummus and kibbeh.
7. Annapolis
Our newest full-service addition brings the flavors of Beirut to Maryland’s capital. The Annapolis location captures that coastal, breezy vibe while staying true to our roots. It’s the perfect destination for sailors, locals, and visitors looking for authentic Mediterranean fare in a historic setting.
The LebTav Locations: Cozy Comfort for the Quick Fix
Sometimes you want the authentic taste of Lebanese Taverna but you’re short on time. That’s where LebTav comes in. These four fast-casual locations in DC and Maryland are designed for those who need a delicious, healthy meal without the full sit-down service.At LebTav, we focus on the "best of" our menu: think customizable bowls, fresh salads, and legendary wraps. You can check out the full LebTav menu here to see what we mean.
The 4 LebTav Spots (DC & Maryland)
You can find our LebTav locations strategically placed throughout the DMV to ensure you’re never too far from a fresh falafel fix. Whether you're working downtown or living in the Maryland suburbs, these spots offer the same quality ingredients and halal-certified meats as our full-service restaurants, just at a faster pace.They are perfect for:Office Lunches: Say goodbye to boring sandwiches and hello to chicken shawarma.Post-Workout Fuel: High-protein, fresh-veg options that won't weigh you down.Easy Dinners: Grab a family platter on your way home and be the hero of the household.
The Market: The Soul of a Lebanese Souk
Located in Arlington, The Market is perhaps the most unique part of the Lebanese Taverna family. If the restaurants are the dining room, the Market is the kitchen and the pantry.Stepping into The Market feels like being transported to a vibrant souk (market) in Beirut. It is the "soul" of our business. Here, you can find:Prepared Foods: The same hummus, baba ghanoush, and salads we serve in our restaurants, ready to take home.Specialty Groceries: Hard-to-find Middle Eastern spices, olive oils, and pantry staples.The Bakery: Freshly baked pita and man'oushe (Lebanese flatbread) that fill the air with an irresistible aroma.Wine & Beer: A curated selection of Lebanese wines (like Chateau Musar) that pair perfectly with our food.It’s the ultimate destination for home cooks who want to bring a piece of Lebanon into their own kitchens.
Why We Do What We Do
For over 45 years, the Abi-Najm family has been guided by a single philosophy: Ahlan wa Sahlan. It means "You are family, and your path is easy." It’s the traditional Lebanese greeting, and it’s how we want every guest to feel the moment they walk through our doors: whether it’s at a high-end restaurant in Tysons or a quick-casual spot in DC.We know the DMV is a busy place. Everyone is constantly on the move. That’s why we’ve worked so hard to grow into 12 locations. We want to make sure that no matter where you are: from the inner streets of DC to the suburbs of Maryland and the heart of Northern Virginia: you have access to real, honest food.
Special Menus for Special Times
Beyond our standard lunch and dinner, we love to celebrate the rhythms of the week with you. Many of our locations offer a fantastic Happy Hour where you can snag deals on mezze and drinks: perfect for decompressing after work. And if you’re looking to spice up your weekend, our Brunch Menu at our full-service locations is a must-try, featuring traditional breakfast items like Shakshouka and Foul Moudamas.
Find Your Neighborhood Spot
We are incredibly proud to be a part of the DC, Maryland, and Virginia communities. From the early days in 1979 to the present day, our family has grown right alongside yours.If you haven't visited us in a while, or if you've only ever been to one of our locations, we invite you to explore the others! Each one has its own personality, influenced by the neighborhood it calls home, but they all share the same DNA of quality, tradition, and warmth.Ready to plan your next meal? You can find all the details on our homepage or explore our story to learn more about the family behind the food.Whether you're craving a full feast, a quick wrap, or just a jar of the best hummus in the world from our Market, we can't wait to see you.Welcome to the family!
