Popeyes is making its triumphant return and a regional dumpling eatery is expanding with another Arlington outpost.

Those are the latest additions to the Fashion Centre at Pentagon City. The mall just announced that both Popeyes and Dumpling District will be opening in the food court “early this summer.”

Fried chicken mainstay Popeyes previously had a location at the food court, which closed last year, apparently to make way for the new location.

Dumpling District — not to be confused with local eatery District Dumplings in nearby Arlington Ridge — specializes in “authentic homemade dumplings and traditional Shanghainese cuisine.” It has existing locations in D.C. and Maryland, and is also planning to open soon at Ballston Quarter mall.

The mall’s general manager said in a statement that the new eateries are “just the beginning of what’s to come” as the Fashion Centre prioritizes “elevating our retail and dining mix.”

More, below, from the mall’s press release.

Fashion Centre at Pentagon City, a world-class shopping center located in the heart of Washington D.C., is thrilled to announce the upcoming arrival of two dining options: Dumpling District and Popeye’s. Set to open early this summer in the Dining Pavilion on Metro Level, these two diverse restaurants are poised to provide the ideal mid-shopping lunch, dinner or snack.

First, the newest location of the fast-growing chain Dumpling District will open up adjacent to Haagen-Dazs. Serving up soup, steamed and fried dumplings, plus other traditional Shanghainese cuisine, Dumpling District also offers a refreshing array of bubble teas, milk teas and more.

Popeye’s will bring a fresh take on everyone’s favorite comfort food – fried chicken. With a focus on quality ingredients, bold flavors and a dash of nostalgia, Popeye’s aims to redefine the fried chicken experience. Whether you prefer it crispy, spicy or smothered in mouthwatering sauces, Popeye’s has something to satisfy every craving.

Popeye’s and Dumpling District join an eclectic roster of dining options that includes South American street food from Maizel, fresh Mediterranean flavors from Sante, and woodfired pizza and craft beer from Matchbox.

“As we continue to evolve and grow, these exciting additions underscore our commitment to providing experiences that cater to every taste and preference,” said Wes Mehr, general manager at Fashion Centre at Pentagon City. “Dumpling District and Popeye’s are just the beginning of what’s to come and we’re looking forward to elevating our retail and dining mix to offer best of the best for our shoppers.”

Fashion Centre at Pentagon City is poised to welcome more than a dozen new retailers and dining options to the center in 2024. Dumpling District and Popeye’s join recent additions Lululemon, Warby Parker, AKIRA, and SAYKI further solidifying the center as a premier destination for fashion, lifestyle and dining offerings in the Washington D.C. area.