Weekly Food News: New Mediterranean concept for Graffiato space, a look inside Perch, Flora’s pop-up concept, and more

All the news that’s fit to eat

Graffiato space to transform into Mediterranean concept – After the fallout surrounding Chef Mike Isabella’s accusations of sexual harassment (among other things) led to the closure of his D.C. and Richmond Graffiato restaurants, a Richmond group is swooping in to fill the (huge) space in the Arts District. RVA Hospitality, owners of Tarrant’s Cafe, Little Saint, Max’s on Broad, and Tarrant’s West, will house their fifth concept in the building. Karri Peifer with the RTD has more details on the restaurant, to be known as Bar Solita, here.

Flora converting to pop-up concept beginning with noodles and dumplings – After just under two years in business, Flora, the Jason Alley- and Michelle Jones-owned space on N. Lombardy in the old Balliceaux is undergoing some changes. Beginning in September, the space will serve as a launchpad and test kitchen of sorts for those interested in testing the waters for their own restaurant. Flora will host three-month popups, beginning with a Korean noodle and dumpling concept. Karri Peifer again has more.

Take a tour inside Perch, the forthcoming restaurant from Mike Ledesma – We had a chance to tour Chef Mike Ledesma’s forthcoming Scott’s Addition restaurant Perch last week, and it’s coming along nicely–and a complete 180º from the old Joy Garden that once filled the building. Come along with us for a photo tour, and more on when you can expect the new Asian concept to open, here.

Mechanicsville restaurateur trying his hand at the Near West End – A Mechanicsville-based restaurateur is expanding his footprint with a fourth restaurant–this time in the West End. Michael Cohan, the owner of Marty’s Grill, Riverbound Café, and the craft brewery Brewville, has leased approximately 6,000 square feet in a building located in the center, near Shagbark and the former Southern Season grocery store. The restaurant, the name of which has yet to be announced, will serve traditional American cuisine and be open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and provide a casual, family-friendly setting. Additional details from yours truly here.

Fall comes early with Starbucks’ Pumpkin Spice Latte – You know it’s a slow food news week when Style Weekly reports on the return of Starbucks’ Pumpkin Spice Latte. Perhaps the most newsworthy aspect of this imitation pumpkin drink’s return is the fact that the chain wasted no time rolling it out. How early is too early though (Says the guy who typically can’t wait to put his Christmas tree up the week of Thanksgiving or before)? With the heat index at around 105ºF today, the last thing I can think about is fall–but I’m ready for it. Style Weekly reports.