Blog Posts

Local Love | Volume 1: Good Spirit Café

Finding Your Center in the Heart of Carlyle Living in the Carlyle neighborhood near Eisenhower Metro means more than just having a great commute—it means being part of a vibrant, growing community. In our new series, Local Love , we’re shining a light on the local gems that make our corner of Alexandria so special. First up? A sanctuary of wellness and connection located right on-site at Meridian at Eisenhower Station: Good Spirit Café . Meet the Founder: Kahana Samms Kahana Samms isn’t just a business owner; she’s a longtime Alexandria local and a "community-builder at heart." After a successful career in federal IT and cybersecurity, Kahana followed her passion for wellness and creativity to launch Good Spirit Café. Her mission was simple: create a space where neighbors feel seen, supported, and inspired. More Than Just a Coffee Shop Good Spirit Café is a wellness-focused retreat designed to nourish both the body and the spirit. Whether you are a resident at Meridian at Eisenhower Station , Parc Meridian , Carlyle Place , or Meridian 2250 , this is your local living room. What’s on the Menu? Fresh Juices & Smoothies: Perfect for a post-gym boost. Specialty Coffees & Herbal Teas: For those cozy morning rituals. Light Bites: Healthy fuel for your workday. A Hub for Connection "What I love most is the people," Kahana says. "Watching neighbors meet for the first time and seeing the space become part of people’s daily routines—that’s the most rewarding part." Beyond the menu, Good Spirit Café serves as a flexible event space, hosting workshops, small gatherings, and collaborations with local creatives. It’s a true neighborhood hub where life experiences are turned into purpose. Visit Today: Stop by Good Spirit Café at the base of Meridian at Eisenhower Station. Follow them on social media and visit their website to keep up with upcoming community events and wellness workshops!

Living the Carlyle Life: The Ultimate Urban Oasis Near Eisenhower Metro

In the heart of Alexandria, a neighborhood has emerged that perfectly balances high-energy urban convenience with a sophisticated residential feel. Welcome to Carlyle , Alexandria’s entrepreneurial and lifestyle hub. Centered around the Eisenhower Avenue Metro station, this district is designed for those who want to live, work, and play without ever needing a car keys. A Neighborhood Built for Convenience The Carlyle neighborhood is the definition of "walkable." Residents enjoy direct access to the Eisenhower Avenue Metro (Yellow Line) , making a commute to D.C., Amazon’s HQ2, or Reagan National Airport effortless. But the real magic is what’s right outside your front door: Retail & Groceries: Pick up fresh ingredients at the massive Wegmans or visit the nearby Whole Foods. . Entertainment: Catch the latest blockbuster at the AMC Hoffman Center 22 or enjoy community festivals at John Carlyle Square Park . . Parks & Recreation: From the green spaces of African American Heritage Park to the water fun at Cameron Run Regional Park to Eisenhower East Dog Park (right behind Meridian 2250), there’s no shortage of outdoor escapes. Our Local Favorites We are proud to be part of a community with such incredible local partners. When you live in Carlyle, these neighborhood gems become your second home: Good Spirit Cafe 5.0 (11) Cafe 2361 Eisenhower Ave Your go-to for mindful bites, wellness shots, and the perfect lavender latte. Ichiban Izakaya 4.6 (164) $20–30 Restaurant 2281 Eisenhower Ave A cozy spot for authentic Japanese ramen, fresh sushi, and signature cocktails—perfect for a post-work happy hour. Delia's 4.4 (938) $20–30 Italian 209 Hoffman St A local staple known for delicious Mediterranean-inspired dishes and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Find Your Perfect Fit in Carlyle With four premier properties in the area, we offer a living experience for every style—all anchored by the same unbeatable location. Meridian At Eisenhower Station Recently renovated with wood-style flooring and Nest tech, offering larger floor plans than most newer builds in the area. Meridian 2250 At Eisenhower Station Modern luxury living with sleek finishes, high-end amenities and a vibrant lifestyle designed for the urban professional. Parc Meridian At Eisenhower Station Elevated living featuring stunning views, a rooftop pool, and sophisticated apartments and community spaces. Carlyle Place A timeless address with large apartments, recently renovated providing a fresh new look, offering oversized windows, captive views of D.C., and immediate proximity to the best of the Eisenhower Valley.