About JMT Kitchen and Bar
JMT Kitchen + Bar is a Korean-American fusion restaurant and sports bar located at 4316 Markham St (Suite F) in Annandale, Virginia. Its name comes from the Korean slang “존맛탱” (jon-mat-taeng), meaning “extremely delicious” or “just my taste” (northernvirginiamag.com ). Owner Jin-Gak Bae, based in the D.C. area Korean-American community, designed JMT as a blend of K-pop culture and American bar food. He envisioned “a K-pop kind of vibe with sports on” (northernvirginiamag.com ). The venue opened in late 2023 (after a small café closed) and quickly became noted as “Annandale’s newest sports bar” for its big-screen TVs and creative Korean fusion dishes (northernvirginiamag.com ). The space is very large and open, a former grocery turned dining hall – as one reviewer put it, it’s a “huge spot” with plenty of seating (it was once a café and Asian grocery) (local.yahoo.com ). Inside you’ll find a modern, dimly lit interior with neon accents, lots of communal tables, and a full bar. Local press emphasize its uniqueness: Northern Virginia Magazine calls it a sports bar serving “Korean American fusion dishes” alongside game-day action (northernvirginiamag.com ), and Annandale Today describes it as a late-night izakaya with traditional and fusion Korean small plates (annandaletoday.com ). The owners also run Annandale institutions like Hangang Korean BBQ (and Kobe in Leesburg) (northernvirginiamag.com ), so JMT stands out by bringing bar-night energy and over-the-top menu items to the Koreatown dining scene. Guests come for signature comfort foods like the “volcano” ribs drenched in cheese (northernvirginiamag.com ) and adventurous small plates, and they stay for the sports, DJs, and K-pop atmosphere. With its 5 PM–2 AM daily hours and late-night DJs on weekends (annandaletoday.com ) (jmtkitchenbar.com ), JMT has become an after-hours hotspot that adds a new nightlife dimension to the local community.
Events and Programming
JMT Kitchen + Bar has an active weekend nightclub vibe. On most Friday and Saturday nights it features a DJ spinning K-pop, hip-hop, and dance music from about 10 PM until closing (annandaletoday.com ). The big-screen TV setup means the bar is also popular for major sports events, although it is not a dedicated sports franchise venue. In addition to nightly DJs, JMT occasionally hosts themed dance parties and special events. For example, a “NOVA Never Sleeps – KPop Night” was held there on July 13, 2024, complete with guest DJs and performances (www.ticketfairy.com ). The venue has enough space for a private karaoke room used for K-pop karaoke parties and private events. Recurring programming typically includes game-day watch parties, K-pop dance nights, and holiday celebrations (some fans note special events around Korean holidays). Typical tickets for these special events (if any) are sold through the organizers or promoters, not through a JMT box office. In general, JMT’s calendar is seasonal – lighter midweek, bustling on weekends – and special events are announced on social media. Cover charges or ticket prices vary by event; for big DJ nights the venue may admit patrons as “21+ after 10 PM” (see Policies below). Guests should check JMT's social media or community event listings in advance for any ticketed concerts or parties.
Tickets and Booking
JMT Kitchen + Bar does not have a traditional box-office. Standard dining and bar service are on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations can be made by phone or email for evening dining, but note that the bar stops taking reservations at 10 PM on Thursdays through Saturdays (jmtkitchenbar.com ). For large groups (8 or more), JMT adds an automatic 20% gratuity (jmtkitchenbar.com ). If there is a special event or DJ night, seating is general admission and any tickets are handled by the event promoter. In those cases you would obtain tickets through the event listing’s seller (e.g. a ticketing app or local promoter) rather than the restaurant. For pop-up nights (like K-pop dance parties), tickets often sell out, so it’s best to buy early. Sometimes events are listed at nearby ticketing sites or college party calendars; if in doubt, check JMT’s Instagram or Facebook, or call ahead for details. If no reservations or tickets are required, just show up – but expect popular weekend nights to start filling early. Generally there is no standing line for entrance (it’s a restaurant/bar, not a nightclub), so arriving 15–30 minutes before a programmed start (like 9–10 PM on Fridays) is a good strategy to secure a seat.
Seating and Layout
The layout of JMT Kitchen + Bar is essentially an open-plan sports-bar/restaurant space. There are several long communal tables and booths scattered around, plus high-top bar seating along a long counter. Large flat-screen TVs are visible from most tables. According to reviews, the interior is “dark with some neon wall decor” (modern industrial style) and has very high ceilings, which can cause echo when the crowd gets loud. The best seating depends on your goal: for the fullest experience, sit mid-floor facing the TVs and speakers; for a quieter meal, pick a corner table away from the DJ booth and bar. There is also a private karaoke room accessible from inside the venue. Acoustic conditions can be loud when the DJ is on or games are on TV, so if conversation is a priority, avoid tables right by the speakers. For general admission, patrons are free to choose any open table or bar stool; there is no separate VIP area. Many people find the center tables ideal for groups (noting the available space), and smaller parties often sit near the window. Reviewers note that service staff bring orders to your table. Because the space is so large, service can be slower when the bar is packed, so plan accordingly. Overall, seating is casual and unassigned – there’s no assigned sections – so arriving early gives first pick of prime spots. Acoustically, this is more of a festive party room than a quiet lounge.
Getting There and Parking
JMT Kitchen + Bar’s address is 4316 Markham Street, Suite F, Annandale VA 22003. It sits in the same shopping center plaza as the A&J Restaurant and the new Kozy Ramen & Bar (northernvirginiamag.com ) (annandaletoday.com ). The building can be easy to miss – there is little street signage, and the entrance is off an alley/ramp on the side of the center. When approaching from major roads, look for Markham Street and follow the ramp or access road behind the building (the Annandale Today review notes “no sign out front and limited parking” behind the center (annandaletoday.com )). There is a small shared parking lot behind the restaurants, but spaces fill up quickly on busy nights. Additional free street parking is very limited, so most patrons drive in and find spots in nearby lots (A&J shares lot space) or rely on ridesharing. The closest Metro station is Dunn Loring–Merrifield (Orange Line), about 1.5 miles away; local Fairfax Connector buses connect from there or Tyson’s into Annandale. Specifically, the Fairfax Connector stops at “Annandale @ Markham,” served by routes 401, 402, 803 and the F23/F24 Silver Line connector (these buses run past Markham and nearby roads) (moovitapp.com ). Check the bus schedules, as service does not run late at night (the last northbound bus is around 9–10 PM). In practice, most late-night customers use Uber/Lyft or taxi to reach JMT from the Metro. For those driving, allow extra time during rush hour or weekends to find a spot; arriving 30–45 minutes early is recommended. Rideshare pickup/dropoff is easiest on Markham St. in front of the center.
Inside the Venue
On arrival, expect a casual entry experience: early evening is open seating and walkers are admitted freely (usually after 5 PM opening). If it’s after 10 PM on Friday or Saturday, be prepared for a quick ID check at the door (the bar enforces 21+ after 10 PM) (jmtkitchenbar.com ). Once inside, JMT has a full-service host/bar area; typically servers come to your table rather than ordering at a counter. The atmosphere is lively and modern. Along with its bar, the venue has a selection of craft cocktails, beers, wines and Korean soju (the menu has many cocktails and soju options). JMT is smoke-free and smoke odors are not present (local.yahoo.com ). Free Wi-Fi is available throughout (the venue advertises free wifi (local.yahoo.com )). The flooring is smooth concrete, so bring comfortable shoes or watch your step if seating at low stools. Restrooms are on-site; they are reported to be clean and accessible. (The entire facility is wheelchair-accessible – it has no steps at the main entrance and includes accessible restrooms (local.yahoo.com ).) As for amenities, there is no coat check or cloak service – guests usually hang coats on chairs – so plan clothing accordingly. A small menu of house cocktails and Korean bar snacks is offered at the bar if you prefer standing orders. For safety, handlers keep the environment welcoming; the staff will enforce the 21+ rule late on weekends, but otherwise the crowd is mixed (families dine earlier in the evening (local.yahoo.com )). Guests are welcome to take photos or film inside if they like. The overall vibe is festive and energetic, with music playing at room volume during peak times. Patrons have noted that service can slow a bit when the bar gets busy, so you may need to catch a server’s attention after ordering. In short, expect a friendly, informal atmosphere with generous portions of sharable dishes, cocktails, and nonstop upbeat music.
Nearby Amenities
JMT is in a strip of Annandale that is a dining and shopping hub for the local Asian community. Within the same building, you’ll find A&J Restaurant (a popular Chinese/Taiwanese eatery) and the newly opened Kozy Ramen & Bar (northernvirginiamag.com ) (annandaletoday.com ). Across the street and nearby are other Korean and Chinese restaurants – for example, the Hangang Korean BBQ (same owners as JMT) is a short drive away. If you want to try different cuisines before a show, Annandale offers hundreds of international options (Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese, etc.), but immediate walking options are mainly this plaza’s Asian eateries. No traditional nightlife bars are within steps of JMT aside from it. As for hotels, there are no large hotels right next door. The nearest mid-range lodging is roughly a mile or two away toward Fairfax – for example, inns along John Marr Drive or I-66. Many visitors stay near the Metro at Dunn Loring or at the Springfield/Fairfax area, then take a short bus or ride to Annandale. For transportation, note that while JMT stays open until 2 AM, public buses quit much earlier. The last Fairfax Connector buses (803, 401/402, F23/F24) stop running by around 8:50–9:00 PM. For a late-night ride home, Lyft/Uber or taxi is recommended. Finally, to enjoy your visit smoothly, aim to arrive at least 15–20 minutes early, especially on weekends, so you can find parking and settle in before the crowds swell. If you plan to dine out beforehand, earlier dinner plans (around 5–6 PM) avoid the rush. And if you need an ATM or shopping, the surrounding plaza has convenience stores and a pharmacy just a short walk away. In brief, Annandale’s Koreatown surroundings mean you have plenty of Asian dining options for pre-show meals, but limited late-night transit – so factor that into your plans.
What Makes This Venue Special
JMT Kitchen + Bar stands out because it brings something new to Annandale’s well-established Koreatown. Instead of being just another BBQ place, it’s a fusion sports bar where K-pop culture meets casual Korean comfort food. Local media celebrated its arrival: Northern Virginia Magazine called it one of the “latest additions to the game day lineup” in Annandale (northernvirginiamag.com ), and Annandale Today highlighted its role as a “late-night gathering place” with craft cocktails and fusion dishes (annandaletoday.com ). In short, JMT is “a unique place” (northernvirginiamag.com ) – the owner himself says they were nervous it could work because it’s so different (northernvirginiamag.com ). The menu is filled with creative twists (“the novel dishes are as JMT as can be” (northernvirginiamag.com )), like cheese-drizzled ribs, kimchi burgers, and fried dumplings topped animal-style. The demographic is unique too – you’ll see a mix of younger crowd (college students, K-pop fans) and local families earlier in the evening (it’s still families-friendly until late night) (local.yahoo.com ). Culturally, JMT bridges generations: second-generation Korean-Americans get a taste of home-style soju cocktails and fusion dishes, while local non-Korean patrons enjoy a flashy new venue under the same roof as long-time favorites like A&J. That cultural blend is why both reporters and customers love it. Other memorable moments making JMT special include its all-night opening hours (most Annandale restaurants close earlier) and the fact that it’s one of the few places around where you can eat traditional Korean army stew or bulgogi flatbread into the early morning hours. In short, JMT matters to the community as a fun, late-night hub that celebrates Korean culture in a communal sports-bar setting, something Annandale didn’t really have until JMT arrived.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: JMT is wheelchair-accessible. The entrance is level (a right-side ramp), and the interior is a wide-open space without steps (local.yahoo.com ). There are accessible restrooms on site. Age Policy: Before 10 PM on most nights, all ages are welcome and the atmosphere is family-friendly (local.yahoo.com ). After 10 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, the venue enforces a 21+ policy (valid ID is required) (jmtkitchenbar.com ). Make sure to bring a driver’s license or other photo ID if you plan to stay late on the weekend. What to Bring: Bring your ID for age checks. Cash is handy but JMT accepts credit cards too. You may want to bring a light jacket or sweater if you’re staying late, as the air conditioning is strong at night; there is no formal coat check (guests usually drape coats over chair backs). Phones and cameras are fine – many people take photos of the neon signs or dishes. Outside food or drinks (including alcohol) are not allowed. If you have dietary needs, the menu does include vegetarian dishes (e.g. veggie sliders, tofu stews) and can accommodate some requests, but this is fundamentally a bar kitchen (no formal allergy or kosher certification). Seating Advice: If you want the best seats, arrive early. The busiest times are 8–10 PM on weekends. On event nights (big games or DJ parties), seats fill fast. There is no assigned seating, so first-come wins. If the bar is crowded, it’s polite to share a table with others if space is tight. Reviews note parking is limited, so give yourself an extra 10 minutes on arrival to park and enter. Other Policies: The staff recommends a casual dress code (jeans, shirts, casual attire) – no formal wear needed. Tip generously (outside of groups) – the food and drink portion sizes are large and table service is attentive when busy. There is free Wi-Fi and cell service is reliable inside (local.yahoo.com ). Musical performances and DJs can make it loud; ask for quieter seating if you want conversation, or just lean into the party vibe. Thrown-Together Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t show up without ID on a late weekend; don’t expect a table outside because there’s none; don’t think the space is small – it’s much larger than it looks. If you plan to take the bus home, remember that Fairfax Connector buses stop running by around 9 PM, so have a backup ride. Finally, use the venue’s official channels or reliable local sources for event info – unsanctioned ticket sites occasionally pop up for selling cover, but JMT itself does not endorse any single ticketing website. In general, be prepared for a lively, fun night and enjoy the “extremely delicious” experience that JMT promises!
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “JMT” stand for?
“JMT” is an acronym based on the Korean slang expression “존맛탱” (pronounced jon-mat-taeng), which roughly translates to “extremely delicious” or “just my taste” (northernvirginiamag.com ). The owners chose it to reflect their mission of serving food that people love.
What are the hours of operation and are there any age restrictions?
JMT Kitchen + Bar is open daily from 5:00 PM until 2:00 AM (jmtkitchenbar.com ). Up through 10:00 PM each night it is open to all ages, but on Friday and Saturday nights after 10:00 PM the venue enforces a 21+ policy (valid ID is required) (jmtkitchenbar.com ). Afternoon or lunch hours are not available – dinner service begins at 5.
Do I need a reservation at JMT Kitchen + Bar?
You can make a reservation by phone or email for dinner, but note the venue does not take any reservations after 10:00 PM on Thursdays, Fridays, or Saturdays (jmtkitchenbar.com ). For large groups and parties it’s a good idea to call ahead. Otherwise, walk-ins are welcome subject to availability. During busy evening hours or special events, arriving early helps ensure you get a table.
How can I buy tickets or get on the guest list for a JMT event?
JMT itself does not sell tickets directly. For special events (like K-pop DJ nights or parties), tickets are typically sold through the event organizer’s platform or app. Watch JMT’s official social channels or local event listings for announcements and ticket links. Often there is no formal ticketing for casual weekends – just arrive and pay cover at the door if required. If a headliner or concert is scheduled, you’ll likely need to purchase tickets in advance through the promoter’s site.
What is the seating arrangement inside JMT Kitchen + Bar?
JMT has an open, sports-bar style layout. There are long communal tables and booths scattered around the space, plus high-top stools at the bar counter. All seating is general admission – you can sit wherever there’s space. Large flat-screen TVs are visible from most tables for game-viewing. The interior is modern and dimly lit with neon accents. A small private karaoke room is also available inside. Because it’s a large room, acoustics can be lively when crowded; if you prefer quieter conversation, sit away from the speakers or DJ area.
Is JMT Kitchen + Bar wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The venue is wheelchair-friendly with no steps at the main entrance ramp, and it has an accessible restroom (local.yahoo.com ). The layout is flat and spacious, making navigation by wheelchair quite easy. Service staff will assist guests with accessibility needs.
Does JMT Kitchen + Bar allow children or families?
Yes, children and families are welcome before the late-night hours. JMT is described as having a “fun festive atmosphere...fit for people of all ages” (local.yahoo.com ). Kids can dine early in the evening, but remember that after 10 PM on Friday and Saturday the venue becomes 21+ only. Until then there’s no problem bringing family or groups of different ages.
What are the parking options at JMT Kitchen + Bar?
Parking is limited at the shopping center where JMT is located. There is a small free lot shared with adjacent restaurants (A&J Restaurant, etc.), and it often fills up on busy nights (annandaletoday.com ). Street parking is sparse. Many guests use rideshare or drop-offs. If you drive, allow extra time to find a space. The venue is reachable via a side ramp from the lane behind the building. Plan to arrive 15–30 minutes earlier if it’s a popular weekend evening.
What public transit serves JMT Kitchen + Bar?
Fairfax Connector buses serve the area. In particular, several routes (401, 402, 803 and the F23/F24 express) stop at the “Annandale @ Markham” bus stop just a block away (moovitapp.com ). This connects to nearby Metro stations (e.g. Dunn Loring or West Falls Church). Note that buses do not run late at night. If you stay past the last bus, the best option is likely a rideshare (Uber/Lyft) back to the nearest Metro or home.
Does JMT Kitchen + Bar offer Wi-Fi and other amenities?
Yes. JMT has free Wi-Fi available for customers (local.yahoo.com ). The space is smoke-free (no indoor smoking permitted) (local.yahoo.com ). There is a full-service bar, and the staff provides table service for food and drinks. There is no coat check, so bring what you think you’ll need. Overall, it has the basic amenities of a modern restaurant/bar – comfortable seating, restrooms, Wi-Fi, and friendly service.
Is there a dress code at JMT Kitchen + Bar?
No formal dress code is enforced. The atmosphere is casual to smart-casual – you will see everything from jeans and tees to nicer tops. For evening and weekend DJ nights, people tend to dress up a bit (nice jeans, sneakers, casual dresses). Just avoid very high heels on the concrete floor if you plan to dance or move around a lot. In short, wear what you’d wear to a casual bar or restaurant.
What forms of payment are accepted?
JMT accepts credit and debit cards as well as cash. Most customers pay by card even at the bar. It’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for tips or if a machine error ever occurs, but cards work fine. There is no cover charge except as noted when DJs or special performances are on (and if a cover applies, you would pay it at the door).
Does JMT Kitchen + Bar allow pets?
No. JMT is an indoor restaurant and bar and does not allow pets. (Service animals are, of course, always allowed under ADA law.) For health and safety reasons, only service animals are permitted inside.
Can I bring my own food or drinks?
Outside food and drinks are not allowed. JMT is a full-service restaurant, so they expect guests to order from the menu. Outside alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited. You can bring things like medication or baby formula, but any meals or alcohol should be purchased at the venue. If you have special dietary restrictions, let your server know and they can guide you through the menu options.
Is smoking allowed?
No, JMT is a smoke-free environment. There is no indoor smoking permitted at any time (local.yahoo.com ). (As of 2025, Fairfax County restaurants follow state law forbidding indoor smoking.)
Does JMT have a coat check?
No. There is no formal coat check. Usually guests hang their jackets on chair backs or place them beside their table. During winter months, coat space can be tight, so consider layers. The staff can help find a dry spot if needed, but be prepared to keep track of your own coat or extra items.
Are pets allowed at JMT Kitchen + Bar?
No, pets are not allowed inside the restaurant. Only service animals under ADA guidelines are permitted. JMT’s policy is to keep the indoor space pet-free for customer comfort and health safety.
Is there free Wi-Fi at JMT Kitchen + Bar?
Yes, JMT offers free Wi-Fi for guests inside the venue (local.yahoo.com ). You can ask a server for the network name if needed. The connectivity is generally reliable, though bandwidth is shared by many guests (so video calling may be slow when it’s busy).
Does JMT Kitchen + Bar serve food for a late night crowd?
Yes. JMT prides itself on being a late-night spot. The kitchen is open until closing at 2 AM, and they serve hearty dishes and snacks all night. You can order favorites like spicy pork kebabs, dumplings, wings, burgers, and Korean staples (tteokbokki stew, Army stew, etc.) late into the night. Many guests make it a point to eat here after 11 PM when other restaurants have closed.
When is the best time to arrive?
If you want a good seat and attentive service, aim to come early in the evening. Dinner service starts at 5 PM, and after about 7–8 PM on weekends it gets very busy. Likewise, on nights with a DJ or special event, arrive before the event’s start time to get settled. The best time for fewer crowds is around 5–6 PM, or even very late after midnight if you prefer a quieter scene (though note only 21+ after 10 PM). In general, plan to be there at least 15 minutes before you actually want to eat or watch a game.
