Elyse

Overview

Elyse is an intimate fine-dining restaurant in Fairfax, Virginia, led by chef Jonathan Krinn, known for his work at Clarity. The restaurant occupies a small standalone space off Lee Highway with only about 30 seats, creating a focused and exclusive dining experience. Elyse specializes in a multi-course chef’s tasting menu that emphasizes seasonal and globally inspired techniques. The setting is refined and tailored to special occasions or immersive culinary dinners.

Cuisine & Menu

The restaurant offers a prix-fixe tasting menu that changes regularly, with thoughtfully curated courses featuring inventive ingredient combinations and refined presentation. Courses typically include amuse-bouche, multiple savory plates with choices, and dessert, and optional wine or beverage pairings are offered. Dishes reflect creative modern cuisine that draws on worldly influences and meticulous technique.

Atmosphere & Service

Elyse’s dining space is small and designed to feel like a contemporary speakeasy with cozy lighting and close views of the open kitchen. Service is attentive and paced to complement the tasting experience, with staff guiding diners through each course. The intimate scale of the restaurant supports quiet conversation, though the singular-seating concept fosters a relaxed, full-evening engagement rather than quick turnover.

What to Know Before You Go

Reservations are strongly recommended due to limited seating and the exclusive tasting format. The restaurant typically operates dinner service a few nights per week and may close on other nights or for chef-led retreats. Attire is often smart casual to dressy, reflecting the fine-dining nature of the experience, and guests should expect the tasting menu to be the sole dining format rather than an à la carte option.