NEW: Asian food chain Wagamama coming to former Oz space in Clarendon

A British restaurant chain serving “Asian food inspired by the flavors of Japan” is coming to Arlington.

Wagamama is expected to open in Clarendon this summer, the company announced. It will be located in a 5,100 square foot space at 2950 Clarendon Blvd — formerly home to Oz Restaurant and the short-lived La Tagliatella — and will be the first D.C. area location for the company.

Wagamama has over 200 locations in 27 countries, including several in New York City, and is in the midst of an expansion.

“The Clarendon location of the vibrant full-service restaurant, known for its social and experiential eating-environment, will offer diners that same Wagamama experience, featuring beloved noodle dishes, signature ramens, and shareable plates inspired by Japanese, Chinese and Korean food,” said a press release. “Fresh juices, craft cocktails and an extensive sake, beer and wine list will also be prominent, making this a great destination for social occasions (including happy hour).”

Wagamama will be open for lunch and dinner and will feature an “expansive patio” in addition to the large indoor dining space.

The full press release is below.

Leading international restaurant brand Wagamama will expand its U.S. presence with a Summer 2022 opening in Arlington’s Clarendon neighborhood. The 5,100 square foot restaurant, located at 2950 Clarendon Boulevard, will be the company’s first location in the Washington, D.C. region and will serve an array of fresh, cooked-to-order Asian-inspired bowls, curries, and creative craft cocktails during lunch and dinner services.

Wagamama first opened in London in 1992 and quickly hooked diners on its “bowl to soul” dining philosophy, which has spurred the company’s continuous expansion to over 200 locations in 27 countries. The Clarendon location of the vibrant full-service restaurant, known for its social and experiential eating-environment, will offer diners that same Wagamama experience, featuring beloved noodle dishes, signature ramens, and shareable plates inspired by Japanese, Chinese and Korean food. Fresh juices, craft cocktails and an extensive sake, beer and wine list will also be prominent, making this a great destination for social occasions (including happy hour).

“We couldn’t be more excited to open our first location in Northern Virginia and introduce Wagamama to Clarendon and the entire Washington, D.C. region,” said Richard Flaherty, co-CEO of Wagamama USA. “Our modern, pan-Asian cuisine will fit right in with the dynamic international community of the DC area,” he continued. “We look forward to bringing the elevated, high energy Wagamama experience to the Clarendon neighborhood this summer.”

The restaurant, which hosts a multi-featured dining area and an expansive patio, will open for lunch and dinner daily. Final menus, operating hours, and design details will be made available closer to opening.