Downtown Leesburg officially welcomed a new gathering spot on Thursday as Shutters on King held its grand opening with a ribbon cutting at its King Street location.
The restaurant, tucked inside the restored building that once housed Black Shutter Antiques, offers more than just a meal. It’s aiming to become a true community hub.
Owner Pete Bianchini, one of four families behind the project, said the idea for Shutters has been in the works for years.
“This started many many years ago with four families that came up with the vision of wanting to do something where it would be more than just a restaurant or a bar. A place where friends can meet, congregate,” Bianchini said.
Inside, the space keeps a foot in the past while looking squarely at the future. There’s a rooftop patio, a lively main bar, and a private dining room — giving it flexibility for anything from a casual night out to a full-on wedding reception. And that’s already happening — Bianchini mentioned that Shutters is already playing host to wedding receptions and baby showers.
Located at 102 S King Street, the restaurant adds fresh energy to a street that’s long been central to downtown Leesburg’s character. With its seasonal menu and nods to Virginia style and ingredients, Shutters seems to want to blend right in — while offering something a little different.
Bianchini made it clear:
“We really wanted this to be a staple in the community and look forward to being a positive member of the community for the foreseeable future.”
For locals, this opening may feel like the latest chapter in the ongoing story of downtown Leesburg — balancing historic preservation with a steady stream of new restaurants, shops, and foot traffic. And with the transformation of the old Black Shutter Antiques space, Shutters is making a clear case that the old and the new can work hand in hand.