Chef and restaurateur José Andrés will open his first fast-casual restaurant on campus next year, no pork belly included.
The celebrity chef best known for Jaleo and Zaytinya will take over the retail space along 22nd and I streets inside the Science and Engineering Hall for his first veggie-based eatery, called “Beefsteak,” according to a University release.
Don’t let the name fool you. The restaurant, named after the beefsteak tomato, will feature food that Andrés has yet to emphasize: Vegetables. Andrés plans to serve up Chipotle-esque customizable, bowl-style vegetable entrees with several grain and sauce options. Meat will make a small appearance on the menu, but will be served mainly as a side.
Andrés has begun making GW his home over the last several years. He has taught a course centered on food justice called “World on a Plate” and headlined Commencement last year, where he earned an honorary doctorate. He also serves on the University’s Urban Food Task Force.
After months (or arguably, years) of hinting at his new project, Andrés’ secret is finally out. But one last critical question remains: Will Beefsteak take GWorld?