Indulge in a dining experience as memorable as a Wolf Trap performance. At Ovations Restaurant, great food, refreshing drinks, and unforgettable shows come together in perfect harmony. Located near the Filene Center, Ovations Restaurant is an al fresco, gourmet buffet dining experience where guests can curate their own culinary adventure with a selection of delicious farm-to-table and seasonal offerings.
Enjoy a varied selection of bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and globally inspired dishes that rotate throughout the summer. Thoughtfully curated by Wolf Trap’s Executive Chef Chris Faessen, each dish is crafted to balance delicious flavors, artful presentation, and variety to accommodate a wide range of dietary preferences.
Complement your meal with selections from our full bar, offering local craft beers, fine wines, expertly mixed cocktails, and a variety of non-alcoholic beverages to suit every taste.
Whether you're here for the music, the cuisine, or both, Ovations Restaurant sets the stage for a remarkable evening. We look forward to welcoming you!
For large parties (9 or more guests), special requests, or any inquiries, please reach out to us at
OvationsDining@wolftrap.org or call us at 703.255.4017.
Chris Faessen – Executive Chef, Ovations Restaurant at Wolf Trap
For over 20 years, Executive Chef Chris Faessen has redefined dining at Wolf Trap, transforming food and beverage into an integral part of the experience. Now, with the launch of Ovations, he’s realizing a lifelong dream, creating memorable dining moments for guests in a place he loves.
Faessen’s journey began in his hometown of Reading, PA, working in steakhouses, country clubs, and breweries before refining his craft at Baltimore International College. His passion led him to top executive chef roles in Washington, DC, before finding his home at Wolf Trap in 2004. Since then, he’s been the creative force behind backstage catering, corporate dining, and special events, always striving to elevate every bite.
For Faessen, food is more than a meal, it’s an experience. After successfully transforming The Barns into a full-service restaurant, he now brings two decades of expertise and a deep love for hospitality to Ovations, ensuring every dish makes a lasting impression.
With a rotating menu, selections may vary, but here’s a taste of what you can expect:
A Variety of Starters & Salads – From refreshing Chilled Cucumber & Avocado Gazpacho Shooters to a Rustic Mediterranean Dips Trio, or a classic Watermelon & Feta Salad, our selection of appetizers sets the stage for a well-rounded meal.
Main Course Highlights – Savor the bold spice of Jerk-Marinated Chicken with Spicy Mango Salsa, the richness of Seared Herb-Crusted Salmon, or the indulgence of Fried Chicken and Spam & Pineapple Fried Rice. Vegetarian & vegan options abound, with choices like BBQ Jackfruit Sliders, Impossible Meatballs with Capitol City Mambo Sauce, and the comforting Eggplant Parmesan.
Sides & Accompaniments – Enhance your meal with a Loaded Baked Potato Bar, creamy Smoked Gouda Mac & Cheese, or a colorful array of Grilled Summer Vegetables, all designed to complement our main course selections.
Sweet Endings – Indulge in an assortment of Mini Desserts, featuring bite-sized cheesecakes, lemon bars, and chocolate mousse, along with a selection of Assorted Mini Cookies for the perfect finishing touch.