At Dweck, we know that great communities are built around spaces where people can come together, share a meal, and create lasting memories. Water Park, one of National Landing’s newest culinary destinations, embodies this philosophy perfectly, having quickly become a neighborhood favorite for gathering, eating, and celebrating. This isn’t just another dining spot; it’s a vibrant community hub where diverse culinary experiences meet live entertainment in a lush, welcoming environment. Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch with friends, an after-work happy hour, or a place to catch some live music, Water Park offers something for every taste and occasion.

One of our favorite discoveries at Water Park is Bubbie’s Plant Burgers & Fizz, where plant-based eating reaches mouthwatering heights. Starting from their belief that you don’t need animal products to make delicious meals, Bubbie’s has created a menu that’s both entirely plant-based and completely satisfying. “I want it to be your friendly neighborhood diner,” chef Margaux Riccio says in an article by Washington City Paper. “We don’t want to be known for being vegan. We want to be your neighborhood spot to pop in for a burger.” Their burgers and “chick’n” sandwiches come loaded with cheese, sauces, and bacon — all plant-based and all delicious. This means that whether you’re committed to plant-based eating or simply curious about trying something new, Bubbie’s creates an inclusive dining experience where everyone can enjoy a great meal together. For the first-time guest, they recommend: “Our must-tries are the Buzz breakfast sandwich, our hand-battered onion rings, or any of our hand-spun milkshakes. Our entire menu is plant-powered and super yummy!”

For those craving elevated comfort food, Queen Mother’s delivers everything you could want (and nothing you don’t want). Led by Chef “Rock” Harper, a James Beard nominee and winner of Season 3 of Hell’s Kitchen, this spot specializes in fried chicken sandwiches, offering an impressive eight different sauces to choose from. What sets Queen Mother’s apart is their commitment to quality: no antibiotics, no pesticides, no growth hormones, and no artificial preservatives, flavorings, or colors.

Chef Rock’s philosophy perfectly captures what makes Queen Mother’s special. As he shared in a recent interview with ARLnow, “We have three cornerstones: community, care, and culture. We are a member of the community at large, but also at the micro level at National Landing.” It’s comfort food you can feel good about, crafted by a chef who knows how to make every bite count. “We care for our guests and we cook like it. We treat them with care as if they are in our home,” Rock shares.

While the diverse dining options are certainly a draw, Water Park’s magic lies in its role as a community connector. Picture this: enjoying a plant-based burger from Bubbies while listening to live acoustic music on a warm summer evening, or sharing a falafel, Thai, or Pho with friends while local artists showcase their work nearby. Community-centric events fill the Water Park calendar throughout the year, from Trivia Night on Mondays to Friday live music and a Saturday concert series. Starting back up this month, every Friday through August 29th, you can find a free, family-friendly concert at the region’s only outdoor food hall.

The venue’s commitment to supporting local and sustainable food options, from Falafel Inc.’s mission to Call Your Mother Deli’s artisanal approach, reflects the values that today’s residents care about most. It’s not just about convenience – it’s about making choices that support both personal health and community wellbeing.

Whether you’re a long-time National Landing resident or new to the area, Water Park offers an opportunity to explore, connect, and discover. With nine unique eateries to choose from, there’s something for every craving and occasion. So grab your friends, bring an open mind and an empty stomach, and discover why Water Park is quickly becoming National Landing’s favorite gathering place. After all, as they say at Water Park, “Nothing draws people together like food,” and we couldn’t agree more.

Want to stay up-to-date on all the exciting happenings? Check out Water Park’s full calendar of upcoming events to make sure you don’t miss any of the fun!

Photo Credits to Sam Kittner and Bruce Buckley