Slated to open in July 2025, Layered., a new brunch and café concept from the owners of Chateau de Chantilly, represents a “significant step in the revitalization of a long-vacant commercial property” in Old Town Fairfax City, Virginia. With a 3,600-square-foot space in Courthouse Plaza, the café is expected to reinvigorate a prominent intersection and contribute to the ongoing economic vibrancy of the city’s historic district.

The opening of Layered. is the result of a collaborative partnership between the business owners, Combined Properties, and Fairfax City Economic Development (FCED), which supported the project through its Façade and Interior Improvement Grant (FIIG) program. According to a statement from FCED, the FIIG program is designed to offset the costs of commercial rehabilitation. The grant enabled upgrades to the building’s façade, transforming a former McDonald’s into a stylish, modern destination for residents and visitors alike.

“We are thrilled to welcome Layered., a new, walkable third place and a destination business, to Old Town Fairfax City,” said Christopher Bruno, CEO and director of Fairfax City Economic Development. “Layered. Was able to take advantage of another keystone program of FCED, and we’re proud to demonstrate once again how local leadership and targeted investment can directly support small- and independent-business growth.”

According to the statement, Layered. will feature a curated menu of “handcrafted pastries, freshly baked desserts, cakes, and artisan sandwiches” created by a Michelin-trained chef, along with specialty coffee. With generous indoor and outdoor seating and a luxurious interior, the café is envisioned as a vibrant community hub that will contribute to the broader revitalization of Old Town Fairfax.

“It’s exciting to welcome a new café in our downtown so close to the library,” said Fairfax City Mayor Catherine Read. “Layered. will provide a gathering place for students, families, and visitors in a walkable location. Their very name reflects what is happening in our city as new businesses choose to locate here, shaping the character of our downtown with their unique offerings. I’m delighted to see a long vacant building reimagined and brought back to life.”

“We’re thankful for Fairfax City’s support in helping us bring Layered. to life,” said Choi, co-owner of Layered. “Our vision is for this to be a place where people come together—whether for a casual coffee catch-up, a family treat, or simply to enjoy something special. We hope to become Fairfax City’s go-to spot for great coffee and desserts.”

Co-owner Jae Lee said “Opening Layered. has been a dream of ours for a long time, and we are incredibly excited to finally welcome the community through our doors this summer.”

The introduction of Layered. to Courthouse Plaza, underscores FCED’s commitment to attracting “community-focused businesses that align with the city’s long-term economic goals,” added the statement. 

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