Akeno Sushi Bar wants to open before the end of the year at 611 King Street in Old Town, but it has to get a few paperwork issues squared away with the City of Alexandria to make that possible.
The interior renovation of the former home to Java Grill hasn’t started, as the local business is asking the city for an allowance to install a new HVAC system on the roof without a mechanical screen. The proposal going to the Planning Commission on Wednesday (April 16) would replace two HVAC units, add a third unit, and install an exhaust fan.
The city staff is recommending approval since the units would only be visible from the alley behind the building.
According to restaurant staff, Akeno hasn’t started on the interior renovation of the space but hopes to open before the end of the year. The company also has locations in D.C. and on Little River Turnpike in the Alexandria area of Fairfax County.
A rendering of the interior renovation reveals a sushi bar near the entrance of the building, with stairs leading up to a long dining room and the kitchen at the rear of the building.
The building has been vacant since Java Grill closed in 2021.
According to the City:
611 King Street was constructed prior to 1891 based on the Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps and has been occupied by various retail stores since its construction. The building has also been expanded several times, reaching its current size between 1921 and 1941. Today, the site includes the two-story brick main block and two one-story brick rear additions. On July 8, 1954, the Board approved alterations to the front of the building. Between 1965 and 1980, the Board approved several sign applications for the property.
