Neutral Ground Bar + Kitchen

Whether you want a fine dining experience or are feeling a cozy bar scene, NG is the place to go. Chef Guas is usually in the kitchen plating up his creative menu. If you are lucky, you will see his beautiful wife, Simone, and local McLean peeps dining or drinking on any given night. The burger, the Milanese, and the specials are always great.

Get thee to Neutral Ground Bar and Kitchen with haste! Dinner? Superb. Amazing cocktails at the bar? Sorted. Jazz Brunch? Sublime. Chef David Gays has it goin’ on. #hopeformclean.

Absolutely delicious dishes. The appetizer smoked White Fish and the Whipped Ricotta Beets, the Fish entre was Rock Fish in squash puree and the Shrimp was exquisite. The Pavlova dessert

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Great Jazz Brunch place with live music (which is not too loud). Service was very friendly and attentive. We enjoyed eggs Benedict and Plato Del Domingo, both excellent choices.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

This is a nice addition to McLean. Sophisticated menu and presentation. Service was smooth, polite and prompt. Waiter was extremely polite and careful in explaining the Specials and any other dish in detail. Seemed well-staffed and managed. Dined at dinner 10/25 Sat party of 4

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 4

My husband and I have been following Chef Guas for 15 years, since he first opened Bayou Bakery, and we’re thrilled to see him open a more formal space. The food is consistently fantastic, and the ambiance strikes the perfect balance for both family dinners and date nights. Fair prices, amazing flavors, and a welcoming atmosphere. Highly recommend!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

I took my daughter (36) and granddaughter (12.5) for the jazz brunch today. It was absolutely delightful. Not all of our entrees came out at the same time, but our waiter was cordial, attentive, and I think they were just very busy. We will definitely be back. So happy we have a nice place to do Sunday brunch right in McLean!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 4

Magnificent place for drinks

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Pork chop is fabulous

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

My husband and I went for their jazzy Sunday brunch. The deviled eggs were delicious! I don’t even like deviled eggs and the dish ended up being my favorite. We also had their beignets and skillet cornbread. Both great! For entrees, I had their crab cake eggs Benedict and my partner had the biscuit and gravy. Our waiter Armando was very helpful and made sure consistently to check on us. Highly recommend their brunch!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Neutral in name but “fast forward” in fact. Delightful Sunday afternoon brunch. Spinach Salmon and steak and eggs pricey and delicious. Beignets and Carmel nut bun were sinfully scrumptious. Our attentive server Jessie was engaging, very upbeat and offered helpful suggestions. Nice experience worthy of a repeat afternoon treat.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 5

Neutral Ground Bar + Kitchen is an absolute standout! Celebrity Chef David Guas has spent over 25 years staying true to his New Orleans roots, and it shows in every bite. Numerous awards and recognitions mark his culinary career—including hosting Travel Channel’s American Grilled—and the food here reflects that excellence.

The interior, designed by Simone Rathlé Guas, is stunning. From the natural wood door with a custom palm leaf handle to the bright, airy dining room, the space feels like an urban oasis inspired by both the Gulf Coast and Palm Springs. It’s modern, stylish, and incredibly welcoming.

The Sunday Jazz Brunch is a highlight—I loved the lively atmosphere, delicious food, and fantastic music. This place is very popular, so I highly recommend making a reservation, even on weekdays, as it fills up quickly.

Overall, Neutral Ground is more than just a restaurant—it’s an authentic dining experience: fantastic food, thoughtful design, and a vibrant vibe. I highly recommend it!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Very nice spot for brunch. Food is tasty but the price for potions isn’t great. Would recommend: frozen peach cocktail and french toast.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 4

Service: 5

I had an absolutely wonderful experience at this restaurant! From the moment I walked in, the service was warm and welcoming. The atmosphere was inviting, with just the right balance of cozy and elegant.. Each dish was beutifully present and full of flavor . The jazz band was amazing as well

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Our server was super friendly and very hospitable. The decor is beautiful and brunch vibes are amazing with a live Jazz band. From the coffee to our entrees everything was superb! Highlight of the meal were the banana foster pancakes!!!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5