Okra’s Cajun & Creole, Foundation Fine Dining Revamp to Serve Manassas Diners
Manassas, VA July 27,2009- Two notable names in the Northern Virginia restaurant scene are evolving. Beginning August 1, Foundation FIne Dining will focus exclusively on banquets and catering while Okra’s Cajun & Creole will expand into Foundation’s current space, bringing its Louisiana experience to even more diners in historic downtown Manassas.
“Our marketing and growth strategy has always been very simple,” said Charles Gilliam, owner of both restaurants. “We take care of our guests like family, involve our business with the local community and actively seek to deliver our brand of hospitality to as many people as possible.”
According to Gilliam, the recent revitalization of Battle Street has opened up new and exciting opportunities, making it a perfect fit for an expansion of Okra’s. “Comfortable, casual Cajun and Creole cooking has an effortless mass appeal,” he said.
“Louisiana is home to one of the most unique food cultures in the world-from ingredients to preparation methods-and is one of the only truly American cuisines we have.” He cited how influences from diverse regions, including Spain, France, Africa, and Nova Scotia, blended into a unique type of food. “That’s what makes it so special to me,” he said. “The best recipes were contrived by somebody’s grandmother in a rickety old shack. They stand out to some as a walk on the wild side and to others as a taste of home.”
Gilliam said that Okra’s will continue to be on the forefront in providing quality entertainment for Manassas and the region, particularly as festivals, celebrations and outdoor dining become more frequent on Battle Street. Guests also will be able to enjoy a new version of “The Chef’s Bar.” This popular feature at Foundation Fine Dining had provided an inside look at what goes on behind the scenes at the restaurant.
Foundation Fine Dining will continue as a full-service dining establishment until Friday, July 23,2009, after which it will serve the region exclusively through banquets and catering. The restaurant opened its doors early 2006 and was named a “Best Restaurant in Northern Virginia” in 2007 and 2008.
“Foundation has been a project of love that has given me everything I wanted from it,” said Gilliam. “It became a notable place of interest within the region and provided a special touch for Manassas. My entire staff has been-and will continue to be- honored to be a part of the experience Foundation delivers”
Foundation named Top 25 in Northern Virginia!
The Okra’s Family has just celebrated ten years of serving the great taste of Louisiana in Old Town Manassas. Whether you were present for our Cochon de Lait or you missed the party, please accept our invitation to join in on the fun by viewing our party pictures at Okra’s new web-site, Okra’s Celebrates!
Foundation - Sexy Global Cuisine in Old Town Manassas, offers a unique intimate dining experience. The Chef’s Bar Experience is performed every Thursday evening at 7pm. If you would like to join us please contact us by calling: 703-368-3427.
The Foundation Brunch hours have been extended to 3 PM every Sunday.
Our next five course Wine Dinner will be held on February 4th, starting promptly at 7 PM. Join us for drinks next door at Okra’s before dinner.
