The developers behind The Wharf unveiled Friday the first eight restaurants and bars that will open in the first phase of massive project along D.C.’s Southwest waterfront.

The first wave consists of locally based concepts — and excludes national chains.

As our Rebecca Cooper previously reported, reality TV food star Mike Isabella will partner with fellow “Top Chef” alum Jennifer Carroll for a seafood restaurant at The Wharf. Called Requin, it will be a French Mediterranean restaurant with a seafood-heavy menu.

Trabocchi and his wife and business partner, Maria Trabocchi, will open Del Mar, their first Spanish concept and a nod to Maria’s heritage. Del Mar, also Maria’s middle name, will occupy about 11,500 square feet over two floors and feature 1,900 square feet of outdoor space.

Leeds will operate Hank’s on the Water, which will feature “urban beach food” in small and large plates for sharing.

The roster will also include new locations for local faves Taylor Gourmet, Dolcezza Gelato and Rappahannock Oyster Bar. The latter will locate in the restored historic oyster shed, circa 1912, at the Municipal Fish Market.

There will also be a rum distillery and bar from mixologist Todd Thrasher of Restaurant Eve and PX fame, which we also previewed earlier this year when Thrasher’s business partner, Cathal Armstrong, told us he had signed a letter of intent to do a distillery at the waterfront development. The place will be called Potomac Distilling Company.

Armstrong is also working on an Asian restaurant modeled after his new Thai tasting menu at Restaurant Eve and perhaps a third venue at The Wharf, though neither of those were among the official lineup released Friday.

The eighth restaurant announced Friday is from Ireland native Mark Kirwan, who will open an Irish pub honoring the rich Irish heritage of the Southwest Waterfront, according to a release. It will feature live music.

Source: Washington Business Journal – read the full story there