Mediterranean-Style Pizza Chain Heads to Arlington

Arlingtonians left wanting after the departure last year of Tex-Mex-y themed chain Tazza Kitchen should expect to snack on hummus, falafel, and gyros — along with brick oven-fired pizzas — once local chain Delia’s settles into its new home at the Arlington Ridge Shopping Center.

Family-friendly Delia’s, which opened its first neighborhood eatery over 30 years ago in Springfield, Virginia, is in the process of taking over the space vacated by Richmond-based Tazza (2931 S. Glebe Road). Instead of the specialty tacos, chicken tortilla soup, and huevos rancheros dished out by Tazza, visitors to the forthcoming Delia’s can look forward to dining on flaming brandy-soaked cheese plates, grilled octopus seasoned with oregano, and sandwiches filled with grilled chicken drizzled with tzatziki sauce, or braised lamb bolstered by spicy harissa. Gourmet pizza offerings range from pesto chicken-topped productions to a Greek-style pie featuring Kalamata olives and feta.

The opening date for Delia’s Arlington outpost remains in flux. The company also operates restaurants in Alexandria and Sterling.