Restaurant in Cedar Park Shopping Center Undergoing Renovation

Mexican restaurant El Sol is currently under construction after recently opening in Vienna. 

El Sol has two locations, one in D.C. and one in Vienna’s Cedar Park Shopping Center. The restaurant is working on renovations and — as of a few months ago — was aiming to finish construction by the end of the summer or early fall of this year, according to Natalie Monkou, Vienna’s economic development director.

The parking lot construction and construction on the Cedar Lane Bridge, a central line to the shopping center, is making business tricky for businesses in the shopping center and other nearby businesses, according to Peggy James, the executive director of the Vienna Business Association. 

“I have been in three locally-owned restaurants over there, and it is really bad for all,” said James, emphasizing the importance of supporting El Sol during the construction.  

The Cedar Lane Bridge construction is scheduled to last from May through November, according to James. 

El Sol has been serving Mexican cuisine since 2014. Chef Alfredo Solis and his sister Jessica opened up the restaurant together and serve Mexico City staples such as huaraches, tortas, and tacos, according to the restaurant’s website. 

Another restaurant in the shopping center that is experiencing business trouble due to the construction is Crepes & Karak Cafe. The restaurant sells crepes, salads, coffee, smoothies and more.

“They have a nice social distance going on between their tables,” said James on the Vienna VA Business News Facebook group. 

James encouraged Vienna residents to continue to support these businesses during the pandemic and the construction. 

Photo via Lydia Russo on Vienna VA Foodies/Facebook