In the kitchen at Neutral Ground in McLean, chef David Guas stands over a container of freshly milled cornmeal from George Washington’s Mount Vernon gristmill. Before it becomes tangy-sweet corn bread or creamy grits served alongside his 12-hour brisket, he rinses the meal repeatedly, washing away the husks and bitterness

Weekday social hours (4-6:30 p.m.) at this tropical-chic hangout dishup specials on cosmos, ritas, draft beers, wines by the glass, frose and frozen espresso martinis, plus tempting shareables such as pimento cheese, deviled eggs and whipped ricotta on sourdough with honey and dates. On Tuesdays from 4-6 p.m., it’s tile time, with a selection of Kigumi tables reserved for mahjong.

Enjoy player-only cocktails like the Bam Bird or Sesame Mai Tai during Mahjong “Tile-Tail” Tuesdays at this restaurant in McLean. Available for tables of four, BYOT and board. Advanced reservations required.

Louisiana-born chefs are marking their mark across the south!