Frequently Asked Questions
ARE RESERVATIONS REQUIRED?
Yes, reservations for tables are requested to be booked through the online reservation service - RESY. Our bar has open seating subject to availability. Reservations are released 60 days in advance via RESY. Book your reservation for a table inside our dining room or on our outdoor patio, subject to availability and weather permitting. You may contact 703-992-9095 Tuesday through Saturday starting at 4PM [EST] for any further questions or special requests.
CAN I ADD GUESTS TO MY RESERVATION?
The majority of our tables are for one to four people. Please call 703-992-9095 starting at 4PM [EST], Tuesday through Saturday, to request changes 24 hours before the day of your reservation. Giving us plenty of notice is the best way for us to find space for your expanded party. If your party increases in size on the day of your reservation, it will be more difficult to accommodate.
WHAT DINING AREAS ARE ON RESY?
The Dining Room is the main dining area that guests will see when they are led into the restaurant by a host. The Cabana Room is off to the right of the dining room and seats 8 guests, offering a more intimate vibe. The Bar is open seating with several bar seats and three high top tables that seat two to three people per table. The Patio, which is seasonally available via reservations or upon request, offers shade umbrellas and overhead awning. In the event of rain, we reach out to our guests with patio reservations to offer alternative seating locations, times, and dates.
WHY CAN'T I BOOK A PARTY OF 5 OR MORE THROUGH RESY?
The majority of our tables seat up to 4 people, so parties of 5 or more are handled by the general manager as there are adjustments that need to be made for dining capabilities.
CAN I BOOK LARGE PARTIES OR RESERVE THE ENTIRE RESTAURANT?
Please contact the Management Team at 703-992-9095 [EST] or by email at info@neutralgroundva.com to learn about booking larger parties and buyouts of the restaurant. We will return your message within 24 hours.
WHAT IS YOUR POLICY FOR LATE ARRIVALS?
We hold tables for 15 minutes, and then the table is released. If you alert us that you are arriving late, we will do our best to seat you based on availability when your party has arrived.
WHAT IS YOUR CANCELLATION FEE?
Guests can cancel their reservation through RESY up to 24 hours before their expected arrival time. No-shows and those who try to cancel within 24 hours of their reservation are charged $25 per person. For 6 or more, we request a credit card number to confirm a reservation and charge a $25/person fee.
IS THE TIP INCLUDED?
Gratuity is not included for parties of 5 or less. The associates of Neutral Ground appreciate a monetary recognition from a dining guest for their outstanding service. For all parties of 6 or more, a 20% gratuity charge is applied to your check.
DO YOU HAVE A DRESS CODE?
We want you to dine comfortably and, in your favorite, upscale casual outfit. We appreciate when our guests take our casual chic coastal vibe into consideration when they dine with us! As a smart, friendly establishment, it is preferred that hats are only worn at the bar area only and not in the dining space. "Our southern upbringing dictates that rule!"
ARE YOUNG CHILDREN WELCOME?
As a longtime resident of McLean, Virginia, Chef David Guas aspired to have an upscale, casual neighborhood restaurant for dinner only. The restaurant is conducive to families with young persons and adults, with no children's menu offered. The dinner menu focuses on seasonal, curated dishes with limited substitutions.
ARE THERE HIGHCHAIRS AND BOOSTER SEATS?
Due to space constraints and accessibility for ADA compliant guests, strollers are not able to be placed in the restaurant. And please note, highchairs or booster seats for young children are not provided or permitted.
WHAT IS YOUR CORKAGE FEE?
We charge $30 per bottle for up to two bottles, if not offered on our wine list. If the bottle is on our list, the fee is equal to the full menu price of the bottle. Magnums count as two 750ml bottles [$60]. All personal bottles for consumption in the restaurant should be unopened and in a bag upon arrival. Please be so kind to add to the remarks section when making your reservation on RESY or let our host prior to seating.
CAN I TAKE HOME UNFINISHED WINE?
In Virginia, guests are allowed to take home an unfinished bottle of wine. We will re-cork the bottle and place it in a carry-out bag.
DO YOU OFFER VALET PARKING?
Due to the ample complimentary parking lot that surrounds the restaurant, we do not offer valet parking.
DO YOU ALLOW OUTSIDE FOOD OR DECORATIONS?
We always love a celebration. Decorations for your table are welcome if not disrupting other guests. We offer birthday cakes for purchase. Please contact the management team two weeks in advance of your reservation with select choices provided by our restaurant. Contact us by calling 703-992-9095 starting at 4PM [EST], Tuesday through Saturday, or e-mail info@neutralgroundva.com
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IS SMOKING ALLOWED ON THE PATIO?
No, and please kindly refrain from smoking in the side vestibule with respect to the other businesses.