"D.C. restaurateur Hakan Ilhan's latest project, Alara, will open in early 2024 at the former site of Paolo's Ristorante on Wisconsin Avenue NW. The restaurant will offer seasonal menus and wines focusing on Turkey, Greece, Lebanon, and Israel. The space, designed by Swatchroom, aims for a modern Mediterranean look with a cozy European feel, accommodating 120 people. Alara will feature best sellers from Ilhan’s Ottoman Taverna and offer a strong happy hour component with approachable prices. The menu includes meze, dips, lamb chops, seafood, and brunch items like lamb sausage and egg Benedicts." - Tierney Plumb