Former Bibiana chef Nicholas Stefanelli to open Masseria near Union Market

Two new restaurants from culinary veterans are headed to Northeast D.C. and Vienna in 2015.

Nicholas Stefanelli recently left Bibiana to open a place of his own at 1344 Fourth St. NE, in conjunction with Edens Realty Inc., the developers of the popular Union Market. The first free-standing restaurant outside the market will be called Masseria, a reference to the charming country houses, many on working farms, throughout Puglia.

"Fifteen years in the making," Stefanelli said of the forthcoming 60-seat dining room, which will feature an exhibition kitchen and patio seating. Look for a spring 2015 launch, and for Stefanelli to appear as a guest chef or at pop-ups before then.

Clarity coming to Vienna

Former Inox owner Jonathan Krinn is opening a modern American restaurant in the former Wolftrap Cafe at 442 Maple Ave. E. in Vienna. He's planning to call it Clarity.

"Fun, affordable, built for every occasion," Clarity is expected to start serving spice-crusted lamb shoulder and octopus kebabs "before February," said Krinn, who has partnered with former Central chef Jason Maddens.