Rocco Smith
Located about nine miles north of Mount Vernon and seven miles south of downtown Washington, D.C., Alexandria is one city you shouldn’t miss out on during your trip to Virginia.
Its historic Old Town District is home to brick-lined sidewalks, vintage shops, and boutiques. The city also has a lovely view of the Potomac River.
The city also has a thriving food scene, offering several international specialties for anyone curious about trying something new.
Don’t know where to enjoy the finest flavors in the city? Check out my list of the best restaurants in Alexandria, Virginia, to help you simplify your search.
Le Refuge Restaurant
127 N Washington St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: 703-548-4661
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Our first dining option that I recommend on this list of the best restaurants in Alexandria, Virginia, is Le Refuge Restaurant, just a short walk away from Christ Church.
It’s the oldest French restaurant in the Old Town area. This family-operated French restaurant has an intimate and rustic atmosphere where guests can enjoy authentic French cuisine prepared by Chef Jean François Chaufour.
If you stop by for dinner, I recommend sampling their Bouillabaisse, Escalope De Veau Française, or Filet De Porc Au Roquefort.
They also offer three-course, fixed-price lunch, pre-theater, and after-theater menus. Don’t forget to ask about their best wine options.
Landini Brothers Restaurant
115 King St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: 703-836-8404
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One of the best restaurants in Alexandria, Virginia offering quality Italian fare is Landini Brothers Restaurant, located near Carlyle House Historic Park.
This restaurant has an elegant, club-like atmosphere and is the perfect setting for enjoying Executive Chef Rigo Ramos’ Tuscan-style Italian dishes.
They also have five private dining rooms for any special occasion, including wedding receptions. Their menu offers plenty of pasta, fish, and veal dishes to indulge in for dinner.
Consider sampling their Linguine Alla Pescatora, Scampi Alla Aglio, or Scaloppine Di Vitello Landini with a risotto ro creamed spinach on the side. They also have an extensive list of Italian and international wines.
Nasime Japanese Restaurant
1209 King St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: 703-548-1848
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Located minutes away from Lorien Hotel & Spa, Nasime Japanese Restaurant is your best option for authentic and modern takes on Japanese cuisine.
It has an intimate, upscale atmosphere, despite its small size. The space also incorporates traditional Japanese decor to help guests immerse themselves while dining.
Nasime offers an extensive seven-course tasting menu for guests to sample, from grilled or fried dishes to raw and casserole-like specialties.
During my last visit, I enjoyed their Seared Japanese Kobujime Wagyu Striploin w/ Truffle Shoyu, Duck & Mushroom Udon Noodle, and Otsukuri. Their menu changes daily, so you should consider stopping by often to try something new.
Old House Cosmopolitan
1024 Cameron St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: 703-717-9361
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If you’re having trouble finding places to eat in Alexandria offering quality German cuisine, consider booking your next dinner reservation at Old House Cosmopolitan.
You can find it near the Old Town West neighborhood. This cozy, family-owned restaurant uses locally-sourced organic produce to craft its specialty dishes.
After starting with their Goulash Soup, consider ordering their Stuffed Veal Schnitzel, Chicken Jager, Käse Spätzle, Shrimp Rice, or Züricher Geschnetzeltes. They taste best with a refreshing Valentine Martini, Frozen Margarita, or Tequila Sunrise cocktail.
If you’re interested in their sweet European-inspired desserts, I recommend trying their Apfelkuechle, Baklava, or Black Forest Cake.
Del Ray Café
205 E Howell Ave, Alexandria, VA 22301
Phone: 703-717-9151
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You can find Del Ray Café south of Alexandria’s Potomac West neighborhood. This cozy restaurant has a vintage farmhouse aesthetic and serves organic farm-to-table French dishes for anyone looking passing through at any time of the day.
My favorite dinner options are their Lobster Ravioli, Braised Lamb Shank, and Center-Cut Angus Tenderloin Steak with a side of rotisserie potatoes or organic risotto.
They also have a kid’s menu and offer weekend brunch. Be sure to pair your meal with a Sapphire Gin cocktail or organic coconut water.
Don’t forget to finish your night with their chocolate beignets, apple turnover, or sweet crepes for dessert.
Taverna Cretekou
818 King St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: 703-548-8688
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One of the best restaurants in Alexandria, Virginia, you should consider booking for dinner after spending a day at the Alexandria History Museum at the Lyceum is Taverna Cretekou.
For almost 50 years, this Greek restaurant has offered guests a relaxing place to eat after an exciting day in Old Town.
You enjoy your food in their decorated dining room or spacious outdoor garden patio. In my opinion, their best dishes are Arni Youvesti, Kalamarakia Tiganita, Kotopoullo Lemonato, and Paidakia.
My favorite dessert option is their Galaktoboureko, a light semolina custard pastry topped with filo and cinnamon, paired with Greek coffee.
Vaso’s Kitchen
1225 Powhatan St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: 703-548-2747
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Another excellent option for anyone craving Greek comfort food is Vaso’s Kitchen in the Westover neighborhood.
This popular neighborhood eatery has a cozy, homey atmosphere for enjoying quality Mediterranean dishes near the riverfront.
They also have outdoor seating on their patio. Their menu offers a wide selection of pasta, pizza, seafood, and other classic dishes.
I prefer ordering their Baked Moussaka, Grilled Chicken Kebab, Ravioli with Meat Sauce, or Shrimp Marinara with feta cheese or pita bread on the side and a Vacation Cocktail.
Don’t forget to treat yourself to their homemade baklava, tiramisu, or cannoli if you’re interested in a sensational dessert.
Caphe Banh Mi
407 Cameron St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: 703-549-0800
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Across the street from Gadsby’s Tavern Museum stands Caphe Banh Mi, a casual Vietnamese restaurant nestled in the heart of Alexandria’s Old Town area.
We consider this one of the best places to eat if you’re looking for vegan or vegetarian menu options. Their menu is constantly changing, so consider visiting often so you don’t miss out on the neighborhood’s best flavors.
I recommend starting with their signature Tamarind or Imperial Rolls. Then, order their Grilled Pork, Sloppy Viet, or Catfish Banh Mi Sandwich.
Be sure to wash down this spicy dish with their strawberry boba tea. Their menu also offers delicious rice and noodle entrees.
Hank’s Oyster Bar
1026 King St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: 703-739-4265
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Hank’s Oyster Bar is a popular seafood destination found within the heart of Old Town North. It has a laid-back environment for enjoying classic New England-style clams, oysters, and lobster rolls.
They also have a rooftop dining area with a full bar and lounge where you can enjoy Alexandria’s sun and fresh air.
My favorite dishes are their seared halibut, crab cake sandwich, molasses-braised beef short ribs, and fried oysters.
Also, don’t miss out on their Oyster Happy Hour at the bar every Tuesday through Friday from 4 PM to 6 PM. They also offer brunch Friday through Sunday from 11 AM to 3:30 PM.
Brabo
1600 King St, Alexandria, VA 22314
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Nestled within Lorien Hotel & Spa, Brabo offers an engaging French fine dining experience for anyone passing through Alexandria’s neighborhoods.
This laid-back upscale eatery offers the finest French and Belgian fare crafted by Chef Fredy Garcaguirre. They also have private tasting rooms and a courtyard for special celebrations.
During my last few visits to Brabo, I had their Duck Leg Confit, Diver Scallops, Petite Quiche, and Shrimp Tagliatelle.
If you prefer stopping by for brunch, I recommend trying their Croque Madame or Belgian Waffles. Be sure to stop for their daily happy hour from 5 PM to 7 PM to sample their cocktails and wines.
Vola’s Dockside Grill and Hi-Tide Lounge
101 N Union St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: 703-935-8890
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Overlooking the Potomac River, minutes away from the Athenaeum Gallery, stands Vola’s Dockside Grill and Hi-Tide Lounge.
This waterfront restaurant has a casual, contemporary atmosphere for anyone interested in indulging in quality seafood. They also have an outdoor patio and tiki bar.
Some of their most popular menu items are Honey-Bourbon Glazed Salmon, Creole Shrimp & Grits, Seared Shrimp Tacos, and Cajun Grouper & Shrimp.
I love ordering them with crispy garlic potatoes and a Frozen Orange Crush. Don’t forget to start with their crab hushpuppies if you’re dining with your friends or family.
In addition, they offer cocktail specials and oysters during their weeknight happy hour and brunch on the weekends.
La Fromagerie Cheese and Wine Bistro
1222 King St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: 703-879-2467
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You can find La Fromagerie Cheese and Wine Bistro by the Hilton Alexandria Old Town Hotel. This relaxed, upscale restaurant offers quality wines, artisan cheeses, charcuterie, and small plates you can sample after a long day.
I love stopping by here on the weekends to relax with my friends. I’m a fan of their Steamed Monkfish, Garlic Sausage, and Filet Mignon.
However, if you prefer something lighter, try their Chicken Liver Mousse or Pimento Cheese. You can also customize a cheese and charcuterie platter. Don’t forget to enhance your meal’s flavor with any of their wine, craft beer, cocktails, or craft cider.
Tempo Restaurant
4231 Duke St #2485, Alexandria, VA 22304
Phone: 703-370-7900
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Tempo Restaurant is an upscale eatery specializing in quality French-Italian fare, located less than half a mile south of Taney Avenue Park in the West End area.
It has an airy atmosphere, complete with walls decorated with paintings. I consider it a great place to treat your friends to an engaging fine dining experience.
Don’t miss out on their Linguine Frutti Di Mare, Saumon Pomme D’Amour, Steak Diablo, or Côtelette D’Agneau Aux Herbs.
I prefer ordering these dishes with one of Tempo’s signature cherry cocktails, like the Cherry-Vodka Martini. They also offer a three-course dinner for two on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, perfect for any date night.
Ada’s on the River
3 Pioneer Mill Way, Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: 703-638-1400
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Ada’s on the River is one of the best restaurants in Alexandria, Virginia, with a panoramic view of the Potomac River. It’s a short walk away from Roberdeau Park.
This trendy dining destination is a popular spot for enjoying wood-fired steaks and fresh seafood. You can also enjoy their dishes on their patio.
I recommend starting with their grilled octopus and ordering their Wood-Fired Hanger Steak, Charred Cauliflower, Smoked Swordfish, or Moule Frites with a side of Honey-Glazed Carrots or Lobster Mac & Cheese.
Finish your night in style with their tempting Caramel-Apple Beignets, Valrhona Chocolate Souffle, or Blood Orange Ginger Parfait for dessert.
Chop Shop Taco
1008 Madison St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: 571-970-6438
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Nestled within the Parker-Gray District, Chop Shop Taco is the best place to find amazing tacos and cocktails after a long, busy week.
Its casual and cozy atmosphere makes it a great place to take your family out for a quick bite. Chop Shop Taco offers a wide selection of Tex-Mex specialties anyone can enjoy.
I like their Roasted Mushroom Taco, Pork Quesadilla-Birria, Nachos, and Rice Bowl. If you don’t have time to stay, they offer plenty of beers and margaritas to go.
They also have a few treats for kids, like cheese quesadillas and yucca fries. Finally, enjoy their Tres Leches Cake for dessert if you crave something sweet.
Daniel O’Connell’s Irish Restaurant & Bar
112 King St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: 703-739-1124
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Last but not least on this list of the best restaurants in Alexandria, Virginia, is Daniel O’Connell’s Irish Restaurant & Bar, near the Old Town Alexandria Waterfront.
It has an elegant, vintage vibe, an indoor fireplace, antique decor, and a dog-friendly patio with a scenic waterfront view. They also have live music and a private dining room.
During my last visit to Alexandria, I started with their Dublin Nachos and ordered their Irish Shepherd’s Pie with a side of beer-battered onion rings.
They also have an extensive wine list, offer brunch every Saturday and Sunday, and dog-friendly treats on their patio.
Final Thoughts
The best restaurants in Alexandria, Virginia, should offer a wide selection of tasty dishes and an immersive atmosphere for people to unwind in, from casual eateries to elegant destinations offering fine dining offering international specialties.
I hope this list can help you narrow down your new favorite places to eat if you want to treat your friends the next time you visit this historic city, especially after checking out its local shops, parks, and museums.
Be sure to check out some amazing places to eat near Arlington, too!
Did I leave any restaurants off this list? Be sure to comment below about your favorite Alexandria eateries, and I’ll check out their best dishes.
Best Restaurants in Alexandria
- Le Refuge Restaurant
- Landini Brothers Restaurant
- Nasime Japanese Restaurant
- Old House Cosmopolitan
- Del Ray Café
- Taverna Cretekou
- Vaso’s Kitchen
- Caphe Banh Mi
- Hank’s Oyster Bar
- Brabo
- Vola’s Dockside Grill and Hi-Tide Lounge
- La Fromagerie Cheese and Wine Bistro
- Tempo Restaurant
- Ada’s on the River
- Chop Shop Taco
- Daniel O’Connell’s Irish Restaurant & Bar
Great list! I respect it as a resident . Was ready to eye roll and stop reading at the site of popular but highly overrated places like BWH. I like that u chose places that have adventurist flavors and have an establishment reputation for excellence. With the exception of Dockside, Great entrée examples too!! (Probably would have swapped that one out for Mias if we’re going for similar league) but overall solid list and recs!