Pisco y Nazca Bethesda

To establish a new location of the beloved restaurant in Bethesda, Maryland, Pisco y Nazca recruited local architecture & design firm //3877 to bring their vision to life for a casual, trendy, and fun atmosphere underscored by a touch of subtle sophistication that has come to define the brand. Having collaborated on the restaurant’s most recently opened location in Reston, Virginia, the design team is equipped with a thorough understanding of Pisco y Nazca’s distinct experience with the goal to establish the lively ceviche gastrobar in a new locale.

Located on a bustling corner in Bethesda, the new location features a bold exterior outfitted in brightly colored signage and awnings layered over a neutral base palette––drawing the eye and setting the tone for the experience that lies within. Embodying its namesake, a popular Peruvian saying “Entre Pisco y Nazca,” which translates to having fun in a social environment encompassing exceptional cocktails, Pisco y Nazca serves up bold-flavored dishes, unique cocktails and a vast selection of national and international beers. Remaining consistent with the other locations, the design for the Bethesda outpost embodies the spirit of the brand through familiar touchpoints that energize the space. The //3877 team purposefully incorporated different architectural elements and textures found throughout Peruvian history, infusing culture into the experience through the physical environment, resulting in a space that is cozy and warm yet activated and jovial.

Upon entering the vestibule, guests are greeted by a custom Pisco y Nazca floor mat, patterned tile, and textured lighting––providing a small taste of the restaurant as a whole. The windows provide a glimpse into the space, directing the eye toward the lively bar setting and welcoming host stand. The stand itself is full of texture and warmth, creating a first impression that is just as inviting as the host behind it. To the right, an arched colonnade frames the bar; the enchanting space is defined by a soft backdrop of neutral hues that contrast the energetic feel of the service and patrons within. A large woven canopy, illuminated from the inside, glimmers against the shiny gold ceiling within the soffit, an unexpected detail that engages those sitting at the bar. Adjacent to the bar, counter height seating is available for dining, and in the dining room to the left of the bar, a large, abstract Nazca Line mural of a humming bird by Mike Theodoran from Caswell Sign Co. creates a moment of intrigue for patrons as they walk up the ramp.

Past the bar and up a small set of stairs, the upper dining area is defined by a vaulted, illuminated gold ceiling contrasted by large wood-look acoustic beams and a stunning mobile created by Peruvian artist Roberto Sayas. Below, a variety of seating arrangements can be found, including a row of booths and more traditional tables and chairs as well as banquettes and views into the open kitchen to the left. Further inside, two large wooden doors lead to the private dining space featuring a mural by Gisella Stapleton, and down the corridor, the restrooms. These two spaces, although small in size, leave a bold impression through loud textures and forms mimicking the rest of the gastrobar.

Complementing the distinct design elements unique to the Bethesda location, //3877 incorporated subtle details reminiscent of Pisco y Nazca’s sister restaurants, including mysterious Nazca lines, prominent forms, biophilic greenspace elements, and, of course, the beloved llama figurines. The design curates an inimitable environment, introducing Pisco y Nazca’s bold, lively, and engaging experience to a new audience of diners.

Design: //3877
Photography: Joseph D. Tran