Stellina Pizzeria at Capital One Center in Tysons (staff photo by Angela Woolsey)
Foodies seeking tips for making their own sushi or cocktails will get an opportunity to learn from experts in those crafts next month, courtesy of Capital One Center’s inaugural Culinary Week.
The promotional campaign will bring together restaurants in the development around Capital One’s Tysons headquarters on July 14-18 for an assortment of activities, from the aforementioned sushi and cocktail-making classes to a Battle of the Chefs contest.
The Culinary Week offerings won’t be cheap, with tickets to the sushi-making masterclass from Wren’s chef Yo starting at $85. However, at least a portion of the funds will go to a laudable cause, benefitting the D.C.-based nonprofit World Central Kitchen.
“The culinary experiences offered during Capital One Center’s Culinary Week are great for teambuilding, summer socials, date nights — and even for parents looking for a fun summer activity with their children,” Capital One Center said in a media alert.
In addition to Wren, the Japanese restaurant housed in the Watermark Hotel, the participants in Culinary Week will include Ometeo, Sisters Thai, Stellina Pizzeria, Starr Hill Brewpub, Perch Putt’s Rhum Roost tiki bar, and the development’s most recent addition, The Naisho Room.
Early bird special prices for all events will be available through June 25. Tickets can be purchased through Eventbrite, but no refunds will be allowed, according to Capital One Center.
Capital One Center Culinary Week will conclude on Friday, July 18 with a “curated culinary crawl” that’s only open to people who receive an invitation. The rest of the schedule is below.
Monday, July 14
Summer Roll Making & Mocktail Reception at Sisters Tysons
Noon-2 p.m.
$60, early bird special: $50
Guests will embark on a Thai culinary journey during this interactive class and create beautiful, authentic (and delicious!) summer rolls, and indulge in photo-worthy mocktails from the acclaimed Sisters Tysons team.
Sushi Making Class with Wren Team
5-7 p.m.
$95, early bird special: $85
Join Wren’s acclaimed Chef Yo during this masterclass on the art of creating maki and nigiri rolls. Guests will lean into the precise expertise incorporated in each sushi bite…in a fun, interactive environment.
Tuesday, July 15
Battle of the Chefs
4-7 p.m.
$85, early bird special: $75
One of the premiere events is the Battle of the Chefs. Four chefs from award-winning Capital One Center restaurants will compete for the audience’s vote based on taste, creativity, presentation, and storytelling. This curated experience will take guests on a culinary journey through Italy, Japan, Thailand, and Mexico, with artisanal dishes representing each restaurant. During this outdoor reception, guests will vote on the best restaurant, and meet the four Executive Chefs, and learn his/her story during this lively event.
Wednesday, July 16
Cocktail Contest
4-6:30 p.m.
$75, early bird special: $70
Experience a highlight of the inaugural Capital One Center Culinary Week as five master mixologists compete for the audience’s vote. Representing award-winning restaurants across Capital One Center, these cocktail craftsmen will battle based on creativity, presentation, and storytelling. Journey through global flavors spanning to Italy, Japan, Thailand, Mexico, and the tropics, with artfully crafted libations from each distinctive bar program unfolding across TWO venues within The Watermark Hotel.
Thursday, July 17
Pizza Making at Stellina Pizzeria (morning option for parents and children)
11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
$85, early bird special: $75 (includes access for one adult and one child)
Embark on an Italian culinary journey, and join Lake Como native and Michelin-Bib Chef Matteo Venini for a special parent-child culinary experience and modern take on crafting your own Neo-Neapolitan pizza.
Amalfi Coast Inspired Cocktail & Mocktail Making Class
3-5 p.m.
$55, early bird special: $45
Celebrate summer with the enchanting “Amal Summer, Thai Surprise” vibe! The Rowing Club at Sisters Tysons extends this Mediterranean magic immersive mixology class led by Sister’s Head Bartender, teaching guests craft signature cocktails and refreshing mocktails. Participants will discover flavor balancing secrets, proper mixing methods, and presentation skills while enjoying the relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
Italian Pizza and Cocktail Making Class at Stellina Pizzeria (for adults 21 and older)
4:30-7 p.m.
$105, early bird special: $95
Join Chef Matteo Venini alongside Stellina Co-Founder Antonio Matarazzo for a modern take on crafting your own Neo-Neapolitan pizza and perfecting the ideal Italian cocktail to pair with your pizza, with a reception to follow.
Reservation Times: Cookbook & Tasting Dinner at Ometeo
4-7 p.m.
$125 per guest, includes five courses and a signed copy of “Borderlands”
Don’t miss Ometeo’s one-night-only culinary collaboration as acclaimed author, chef, and James Beard Award-winner Hank Shaw steps into the kitchen with Chefs Kyle Bailey and Gabe Erales to bring his newest cookbook Borderlands to life. This exclusive 5-course tasting menu draws inspiration from Shaw’s newest cookbook — featuring bold, evocative flavors from the Rio Grande to the Pacific.