Owner Isa Seyran has lived in the area for 25 years. | Photo by NOVAtoday
Walking down Wilson Boulevard in Arlington’s Ballston neighborhood, you’ll come across a little red coffee cart called the Ballstonian. What you’ll also see are community members sitting together at a table set up outside of the cart. This spot was started by owner Isa Seyran back in 2023.
Once a server in the area, Seyran set out to create a space that offers more than just coffee and tea — a place designed to bring the community together.
When I arrived to chat with Seyran, he immediately got up and shook my hand. He offered me tea and chai before we began our conversation.
He explained that many people have been brought together through his coffee cart. Couples have gone on to get married, connections have brought job opportunities to residents, and people have formed long-lasting friendships.
“It’s a neighborhood place,” Seyran explained. “And that’s by design. I was living here and seeing what was missing. We have so many coffee shops… but not a human connection, a genuine connection. Somebody that’s going to remember you.”
Good news for Arlington residents. | Photo by NOVAtoday
Opening
Despite recent damage to the front of the building, Glowbar in Arlington’s Clarendon neighborhood is set to open on Sunday, Oct. 5. The skincare chain specializes in 30-minute facials, offering targeted treatments tailored to individual skin concerns.
Coming Soon
A new Indian fusion restaurant, Masti, is set to open in Reston Town Center on Wednesday, Oct. 8. Created by the team behind Indochen, Masti will blend the vibrant flavors of India, China, and Nepal into a unique dining experience. Check out the menu here. (FFXnow)
Announced
It looks like the Discovery space shuttle is set to be relocated from its current home in Chantilly to Space Center Houston in Texas. The Smithsonian Institution will collaborate with NASA to facilitate the move, following directives from the Office of Management and Budget. (FFXnow)
Eat
We recently covered the opening of Sweetside Cafe + Creamery at 10 E. Glebe Rd. in Alexandria’s Del Ray neighborhood. There will be a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Saturday, Oct. 11, which will include specials and giveaways. (ALXnow)
State
The race for Virginia’s governor is underway, and the candidates, Abigail Spanberger (D) and Winsome Earle-Sears (R), will face off in a debate on Thursday, Oct. 9. See where you can watch the debate. (Virginia Mercury)
Drink
Starbucks is facing a company-wide restructuring plan, leading to hundreds of store closures nationwide. In NOVA, notable closures include the Old Town Alexandria location, two in Arlington’s Ballston neighborhood, and the Fair Lakes East Market cafe in Fairfax. Why not support these local coffee shops instead?
Plan Ahead
George Washington’s birthday parade will officially be in Old Town Alexandria on Saturday, Feb. 14, from 2 to 4 p.m. Parade registration will open next month. In addition to the parade, there will be more events in honor of George Washington, starting on Saturday, Nov. 15. (ALXnow)
Edu
Poe Middle School could soon have its own Advanced Academic Program center, and other middle schools may soon follow suit. This program works to develop the strengths of all students, meeting various needs. (FFXnow)
Biz
If you’re wondering how you’re going to find someone stellar to fill your job opening, we can help. With our Job Board, you can post your listing for free and score a new employee in your community. It’s quick and easy — try it.
Read
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Asked
Asked
⭐ Approximately, how many Starbucks locations are in Virginia?
Join the spooky fun at the Ghost Town event at Burke Lake Park, happening Saturday, Oct. 25, and Sunday, Oct. 26. Get your tickets now and treat your family to a weekend of Halloween-themed activities, including a train ride, carousel, crafts, a trick-or-treat house, and mini-golf.
Your favorite Nordstrom fall fashion essential. Sometimes, just one great new piece can update what’s already in your closet from last year. We’re eyeing:
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
That’s a wrap on our coffee week. Did you enjoy the themed week in our newsletter? Let us know.
Also, in case you missed it, here’s your last chance to see which neighborhood best fits your personality based on your coffee order. Take the quiz. My coffee vibe pairs perfectly with the cozy, local vibe of Historic Downtown Leesburg.
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