There’s been a lot of mystery surrounding the exact plans for the former Aldie General Store off Highway 50 in rural Loudoun County. But now, the new establishment is open and The Burn has your first look.
It’s called The Black Market — and it’s both a restaurant and a burgeoning gourmet market.
The space has been completely refurbished and elegantly decorated, giving it an upscale feel.
A handful of large tables wind through the space that is both dining room and market. It feels somewhat like you’re in a friend’s dining room.
There is also an outdoor patio for when the weather is pleasant.
The menu at The Black Market includes charcuterie and cheese boards as well as as raclette option, which is a tasty treat of melted Alpine cheeses served with accoutrements.
There are appetizers such as Virginia Ham Croquettes, Rabbit Meatballs and Oishii Jumbo Garlic Shrimp, plus pasta dishes such as Oxtail and Shortrib Ravioli, and Seafood Risotto.
Fresh soups, salads, and desserts round out the menu and there are cocktails and champagne by the glass. You can see menu from The Black Market below.
The manager on duty said they are still expanding their offerings, adding they were perhaps “70 percent there” so far.
The market component is currently just a small selection of gourmet Italian products on several shelves sprinkled around the space.
Ever since 2022 when word broke that the Aldie General Store had been sold, there was rampant speculation about what would go into the space next.
The new owners worked through several plans before settling on The Black Market concept. Now, at long last, it’s open for business.
The exact address is 39285 Little River Turnpike and the hours are currently Thursday through Sunday from 12 noon to 8 p.m.