Big Mario’s Pizza Expanding to Bourbon and Bones Space

Two weeks ago, Eater covered the end of the Bourbon and Bones era in Frelard. Now comes word that owner Mike McConnell will bring one of his other restaurants to the space: Big Mario’s Pizza.

McConnell and his partners David Meinert and Jason Lajuenesse will open Big Mario’s at 4350 Leary Way NW in early March, according to a press release. The opening will mark the third location for the mini-chain, which has operated a pizzeria on Capitol Hill since summer 2010 and one on Queen Anne since fall 2015.

Expect the same experience in Frelard as at the other two locations, with New York-style pizza and a throwback, divey lounge atmosphere. Pizza will be available by the slice and in whole pie form.

“When we look for new locations, we look for intimate, unique spaces and areas where our notorious New York style pizza and bar culture can become an iconic part of the neighborhood,” Meinart says via press release. “This space definitely fits the bill.”

If Lajuenesse’s name seems familiar, it’s because he’s also been making moves in the restaurant world lately. He’s partnering with Brian Clevenger on Contadino, a restaurant and pizzeria which will replace Lajuenesse’s shuttered Ernest Loves Agnes restaurant on Capitol Hill.