Fairfax, Virginia is one of the major cities in northern Virginia. Just south of Washington, D.C. and across the bridge from Maryland, Fairfax has become a hotspot on the east coast. Aside from activities such as exploring local parks or touring museums, when people come to Fairfax, they eat!
This extensive list covers a wide range of options. Whether you’re in the mood for Korean, Italian, American, Thai, or even Irish, you’ll be sure to find something that will satisfy your craving. If you’ve been to one or all of these locations and had a great experience be sure to share with a friend, if not, check out my list below!
Mazadar Kabob
11725 Lee Hwy. #15, Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: (571) 432-0202
Visit Website
Mazadar Kabob is the place to go for comfort foods and exotic flavors in Fairfax. You’ll find a variety of ethnic cuisines coming from countries like Afghanistan, Iran, the Caucasus, Pakistan, India, and the Mediterranean. Although they are open for takeout and delivery, guests enjoy dining inside to enjoy the traditional middle eastern decor and real water fountain. Mazadar Kabob Serves $9.95 daily lunch specials Monday through Sunday. They also have a variety of vegan and vegetarian options. Some of their most popular items include their mantu, samosas, biryani, and Persian ice cream.
Artie’s
3260 Old Lee Hwy, Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: (703) 273-7600
Visit Website
Arties is a part of the larger Great American chain located throughout northern Virginia. Locals flock to Arties for their modern take on traditional American cuisine. With a casual overall vibe and rustic decor, guests can dress comfortably while enjoying top-notch food. Their most popular starter by far is their famous Ozzie rolls. Other must-tries include the blackened prime rib, crab cakes, calamari, cheeseburger, and fried chicken & waffles. You’ll definitely want to make a reservation, as the evening rush can get quite hectic.
Ozzie’s Good Eats
11880 Grand Commons Ave, Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: 571) 321-8000
Visit Website
Ozzie’s is another Great American location just 15 minutes away from Arties. Being that they are owned by the same company, you will find many similarities between the two establishments. Ozzie’s offers a homespun ambiance and laid back atmosphere. However, don’t let the simplicity of Ozzie’s fool you. Here you will receive top-of-the-line, professional service from the entire staff. Some of their most highly rated offerings include their hanger steak, chicken under a brick, jambalaya, and bread pudding for dessert.
The Esposito’s Restaurant
9917 Fairfax Blvd, Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: (703) 385-5912
Visit Website
Since 1982, The Esposito’s have provided the Fairfax area with high-quality, authentic Italian food. This family-owned eatery prides itself on only serving the freshest of meats, fish, and vegetables. They also make their own pasta and bake their own bread daily. As soon as you walk in you will feel like you’re visiting Italy. From the checkered tablecloth to the classic wooden chairs, the decor and atmosphere are genuine, to say the least. We recommend ordering a variety of pasta depending on your party size as you can’t go wrong with their made in-house quality. Their pizza and meat dishes are also very highly rated among those who frequent The Esposito’s.
The Auld Shebeen Irish Pub
3971 Chain Bridge Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: (703) 293-9600
Visit Website
The Auld Shebeen Irish Pub is Fairfax’s only authentic Irish pub. They pride themselves on a fusion of traditional Irish recipes and American cuisines. The Auld Shebeen is known for its lively atmosphere as you’ll also find live music many nights. The choice of seating is also an added benefit to dining guests who can choose to sit in the main level for a more relaxed experience or the cellar for a more party type of vibe. Whether you’re familiar with Irish food or not, you should definitely try their fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, and signature Guinness beef stew.
P.J. Skidoos
9908 Fairfax Blvd, Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: (703) 591-4515
Visit Website
PJ Skidoos has been a Northern Virginia staple since they opened in 1978. You can rest assured that in the years since, their food and service have never wavered. PJ Skidoos has always been privately owned and never franchised which is part of the reason why customers feel such a personal connection to the establishment. PJ Skidoos prides itself on having “something for everyone” from business lunches to family meals and celebrations. Their most famous menu items are their prime rib served with au jus and their sea bass. Weekend brunch fanatics will also be pleased to learn that brunch is offered on Saturdays and all you care to eat on Sunday.
21 Great American Bistro
10427 North St #102, Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: (703) 591-0146
Visit Website
The somewhat new 21 Great American Bistro has quickly risen to become a favorite among Fairfax locals. This fine-dining establishment meticulously selects fresh, local ingredients from sustainable farmers in order to create the most high-quality product possible. 21 Great American Bistro has become popular in large part due to their excellent tasting food, but their presentation is what leaves customers truly dazzled. Some menu items that customers have recommended include their lamb, duck, new york strip, salmon, shrimp and grits, and crab cakes.
Dogfish Head Alehouse
13041 Lee Jackson Memorial Hwy, Fairfax, VA 22033
Phone: (703) 961-1140
Visit Website
Dogfish Head Alehouse refers to itself as the original craft beer alehouse. Serving innovative and scratch-made ales along with great food is what has made this a hometown favorite for over 15 years. We’re willing to bet that you haven’t been to a place like this before as nothing about their wonderful selection of beers on tap is normal, and that’s what’s so great about it! Whether you prefer something light and crispy, tart and refreshing, or you just want a solid IPA, the bar at Dogfish Head Alehouse has something for you. Their most popular food items include their crab cakes, shrimp, bratwurst, crab dip, jambalaya, and calamari.
Ted’s Bulletin
2911 District Ave Unit 160, Fairfax, VA 22031
Phone: (571) 830-6680
Visit Website
If you love all-day breakfast, Ted’s Bulletin is the place to go in Fairfax. Great for a morning latte, family brunch, business luncheon, or evening cocktails at the bar, versatility is what makes Ted’s Bulletin so great. The decor in Ted’s Bulletin gives off a classic feel with low lighting and wooden tables. With its open layout, you’re sure to find a neighborhood-type atmosphere. If you go for brunch we recommend their breakfast burrito and tater tots. For lunch or dinner? Try the short rib, tomato soup, or a milkshake.
Meokja Meokja
9619 Fairfax Blvd, Fairfax, VA 22031
Phone: (571) 459-2875
Visit Website
Fairfax’s Korean BBQ offerings are extensive, but Meokja Meokja tops the list. While all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ comes in high quantities, quality is what sets Meokja Meokja apart. The servers are diligent in making sure that your grill is never empty and your stomach is always full. Their most popular meat is the marinated brisket. Other highly rated menu items include their corn cheese, steamed egg, and other side dishes.
Sister’s Thai
2985 District Ave #130, Fairfax, VA 22031
Phone: (703) 280-0429
Visit Website
When you walk into Sister’s Thai, you may feel like you just entered someone’s living room at home. Along with an at-home feel, you’ll get a taste of at-home-like cooking. The atmosphere combined with the tasteful interior design is a real draw to crowds. Beyond the decor, Sisters Thai boasts a menu filled with traditional noodles, rice, meats, and spring rolls. However, their appetizers are what bring the most buzz.
Bellissimo Restaurant
10403 Main St, Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: (703) 293-2367
Visit Website
Bellissimo specializes in Northern Italian food and has been open since 2004. Located in the heart of Old Towne Fairfax, this historic location offers outdoor seating with a view. The atmosphere of this is great for any occasion, but it shines in romantic occasions such as anniversaries. If you happen to find yourself at Bellissimo for dinner, try pairing the veal, shrimp, or linguine with one of their fine wine. They’re also open for takeout, but unfortunately, you’ll miss out on the renowned food presentation.
Oh George! Tables and Taphouse
10659C Braddock Rd, Fairfax, VA 22032
Phone: (703) 543-4161
Visit Website
Oh George! Tables and Taphouse specializes in pizza, burgers, salads, and a variety of beers on tap. If you find yourself looking to go with a group for happy hour or a weekend night out, Oh George has you covered. Situated conveniently near George Mason University, this location is always buzzing. Some menu items to try include their truffle french fries, pretzel bites, as well as their wide array of bourbons available. In the mood for a drink? Try a delicious alcoholic beverage from the bar.
29 Diner
10536 Fairfax Blvd, Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: (703) 352-0029
Visit Website
29 Diner opened in Fairfax in 1947. Since then, the diner has become known as a historic site in Virginia. Serving the highest quality food and ingredients is what 29 Diner takes pride in. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner as well as desserts and drinks, everyone can find something they love at 29 Diner. 29 Diner is most well known for their barbecue which includes pulled pork, ribs, and homemade fried chicken. For a slightly different taste, try their sausage and biscuits with gravy.
Havabite Eatery
10416 Main St, Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: (703) 591-2244
Visit Website
Havabite is family owned and serves authentic Greek and Italian food. This is a hole-in-the-wall with fairly limited seating, but don’t let its modest appearance fool you, but Fairfax locals have long recognized this eatery as one of the best in the area. Their specialty dishes include lasagna, chicken kabobs, gyros, and extensive appetizers. If you make a visit to Havabite Eatery, you are likely to be warmly greeted by the owners who make customer service a priority.