Anita’s, a “New Mexico style” restaurant chain from northern Virginia, is taking over the former Joe’s Noodle House space off Rockville Pike. The wide-ranging menu will focus primarily on Mexican fare — tacos, enchiladas, burritos and the like — plus a selection of pupusas, empanadas and other Latin American dishes. Joe’s Noodle House, one of the oldest and most famous Asian restaurants in Rockville, closed in December when its chef decided to retire and its owner moved back to Taiwan. (Editor’s note: We were mistaken about this one. Anita’s, which ended up opening in May 2025, is actually an independent restaurant serving Guatemalan cuisine. For our updated story, click here.

