New Dogg on the Block - Kook Dogg Cafe
- The Reston Letter Staff
- Mar 14
- 2 min read
by Phantom Foodie
No, that’s not a misprint—Kook Dogg Cafe is a curious name with a serious menu. Opened in the summer of 2024 in RTC West, the restaurant gets its name from owners Paul and Noel Kuchler—"Kook Dogg" was Paul’s high school nickname.
If you’re craving a night out but unsure what you’re in the mood for, the extensive and eclectic menu is sure to lead you to something delicious—perhaps even a little unexpected. Bratwurst sliders, anyone? A Bavarian influence runs through the menu, fitting for the Kuchler surname.
Specialty pizzas and 30 artisanal sandwiches take center stage, but there’s plenty more to choose from. If you still can’t decide, both pizzas and sandwiches offer create-your-own options. Shareables, soups, salads, and pasta dishes round out the offerings. Standouts include the shrimp and blue crab ballitos, crab and corn chowder (served with goldfish crackers), and a pizza selection that spans from South Philly to East of Maui—each featuring ingredients inspired by its namesake region.
Continue the ongoing debate over pineapple on pizza while sipping a craft beer. The beer menu is just as varied as the food and includes non-alcoholic options like Athletic Brewing and Bero. Not a beer drinker? There’s an extensive selection of wine, whiskey flights, cocktails, and zero-proof mocktails.
It was hard to resist dessert, but sampling Kook Dogg Cafe was a treat in itself.
My midweek dining experience featured a mix of mostly adults with a few little ones. Service was solid from the hostess to the servers and bussers. Plates were thoughtfully presented with complementary colors and flavors. The noise level was lively, but not overwhelming for a bustling café.
Gluten-free options are available, including gluten-free pizza crust and sandwich bread. For the "Little Kooks" (kids 10 and younger), a simpler menu offers five choices of classic American fare.
A minor order mix-up was quickly and professionally corrected. Overall, this foodie found Kook Dogg Cafe to offer great food at a good value, with excellent service and a fun vibe. Doggone it—I’ll be back for more.
Kook Dogg Cafe
12100 Sunset Hills Road R-6, Reston
571.415.0707 - Call for Reservations
Order Online for Pickup or Delivery
Catering available
Trivia night on Wednesdays
We have never been and will never be reimbursed for our restaurant reviews, nor do the restaurants our staff review know that they are writing about their food and experience beforehand.
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