Modan to Open in McLean on November 8th

Omakase, caviar service, in-house dry-aging highlights sophisticated modern izakaya

McLean, VA — Modan, an upscale, chic Japanese fine dining restaurant, will open its doors on November 8th in McLean. Inspired by traditional Japanese izakaya culture, this modern, 7,000 square-foot restaurant invites guests to experience Executive Chef Micheole “Chico” Dator’s exquisitely-crafted menu.

Merging the spirit of casual dining with the elegance of modern cuisine, Modan’s food and beverage selections are a reflection of Japan’s rich culinary heritage. The menu boasts an array of contemporary plates designed for sharing – from fresh sashimi, innovative sushi rolls and robata-grilled skewers to Modan’s spin on traditional dishes like Wagyu Dumplings, Teba (chicken wings) and Modan Tacos, featuring crispy nori (seaweed) taco shells topped with sweet onion salsa, complete with your choice of wagyu, lobster, tuna, salmon or cauliflower.  

Pictured above is Modan’s artfully crafted Wagyu Beef Tacos, topped with gold flakes (Photo credit: eJin) 

Using the highest quality ingredients sourced locally and from Japan, Modan promises an unforgettable journey of flavor, craftsmanship and luxury in a dynamic, high-energy atmosphere. Modan’s award-winning interior is highlighted through its use of an open concept sushi counter, an expansive dining room and captivating spaces throughout the restaurant, which naturally encourages guests to share their aesthetic dining experience with others. 

The beverage program showcases an artfully crafted selection of sake, Japanese whiskey, and playful, technique-driven Japanese-inspired cocktails such as Modan’s modern take on a Lychee Martini; a King of Kaiju, a tropical milk clarified margarita; and a Japanese A5 wagyu-washed Benkyō Old Fashioned. 

 “Modan’s story begins with a deep passion for authentic Japanese flavors and a desire to create a space where friends, family, and colleagues can gather after a long day to unwind over small plates and drinks,” Dator said. “We welcome everyone in to enjoy our lively, welcoming atmosphere and take part in conversations that flow as easily as our sake. Modan is truly a place where tradition meets innovation and where Northern Virginia’s modern spirit is infused with the timeless soul of Japan.”

Modan’s proprietary in-house dry aging program deepens flavor, adds tenderness, and brings out an unrivaled level of umami magic (Photo credit, eJin)  

Modan also invites guests to try dishes highlighting the restaurant’s proprietary in-house dry aging program. During the dry aging process, enzymes break down the protein and fat structures within the meat while simultaneously drawing out moisture, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Modan will apply their own unique dry-aging techniques not only to beef, but fish as well, offering a curated variety of buttery, dry-aged cuts. This dry aging process deepens flavor, adds tenderness, and brings out an unrivaled level of umami magic.

Modan’s Omakase is an exclusive culinary journey for guests looking to have a more curated dining experience. Teaming with acclaimed restaurateur and chef Ray Lee from Akiko’s and Friends Only, each course offers a harmonious progression of flavors and textures perfect for the experienced and first-time omakase diner. Modan’s Omakase includes offerings of Japanese A5 Wagyu Beef and a rotating selection of exceptional seasonal ingredients, all of which are meticulously selected to ensure a memorable experience for each guest.

Unique to Modan, its Japanese inspired caviar service features three varieties: Golden Kaluga, Osetra and Imperial. Caviar service can be enjoyed either temaki style or with nori chips, sweet onion, wasabi salsa and honey truffle aioli.

Modan’s innovative interior was awarded by the IIDA Mid-Atlantic chapter’s 2024 Premiere Design Awards for its creative use of textures, light, and shadow (Photo credit, eJin)

Starting November 8th, Modan will be open for dinner, Monday through Saturday, from 5pm to 10pm. A lunch and brunch service will be offered at a later date. Modan’s full dinner menu can be viewed HERE.

Modan is located at 1788 Chain Bridge Road, McLean, VA 22102 on the second floor retail level of the Heming Luxury Apartments. Reservations can be made on SevenRooms. For events and private dining inquiries, please call (703) 743-6600 or email privatedining@modanrestaurant.com. 

Press images can be found here. Images should be credited to eJin. Follow Modan on Instagram at @modanrestaurantva. To learn more about Modan please visit www.modanrestaurant.com.

All media inquiries should be directed to blake@lindarothpr.com. 

About Modan

Modan is an upscale Japanese-inspired fine dining restaurant featuring an exclusive Omakase experience and sushi bar. With an award-winning interior, sophisticated Japanese fare and an innovative beverage program, Modan aims to create a dynamic dining experience both through its exceptional cuisine and luxurious atmosphere. Modan translates to ‘modern’ in Japanese and is the realization of a dream to bring world-class Japanese cuisine to Northern Virginia. Located at 1788 Chain Bridge Road, McLean, VA 22102. For updates, follow Modan on social media at @modanrestaurantva or visit www.modanrestaurant.com. 

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