6 Best Restaurants in Northern Virginia, Virginia

Hank's Oyster Bar Old Town

$$$ | Old Town Fodor's choice

This classic raw bar is consistently busy thanks to a nice mix of locals and visitors. No doubt it's because the oysters, clams, and lobster rolls are incredibly fresh, and the wine list is great. The restaurant also offers several daily specials highlighting local and seasonal ingredients, as well as fantastic soups, salads, and small plates. The rooftop dining area is superb.

Kabob Palace

$ Fodor's choice

Authentic, friendly, and local, the Kabob Palace is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The chicken, lamb, and spicy beef kabobs are cooked to perfection and best dipped in chutney sauce and chased with a bite of naan. The sides vary, but rice and chickpeas are usually favorites.

Columbia Firehouse

$$ | Old Town

Built in 1883 in the heart of Old Town and used as an actual firehouse, this historic building now just off bustling King Street houses a popular brasserie with a barroom, atrium, and patio.

American Brunch Dinner Family Lunch $$
109 St. Asaph St., Alexandria, Virginia, 22314, USA
703-683–1776
columbiafirehouse.com
Known For
  • good staples like fish-and-chips, beef bourguignon, and steak frites
  • beautiful interior
  • separate bar menu of seafood and sandwiches

Recommended Fodor's Video

Pupatella

$
One of the D.C. area’s most popular pizza spots sits unassumingly in strip mall territory near a gas station and a 7-11. Don’t let the off-Metro location deter you; this place cooks up fantastic Neapolitan-style pizza in a basic but lively dining room. It’s hard to get more authentic; the chef, the ingredients, and even the wood-fire oven come straight from Naples. Pizza’s the star here, but don’t skip the friggitoria menu of fried bites like arancini or fried calzone. On nice evenings, head to the homey back patio for al fresco dining. You can also order pies for take-out, but there’s no delivery service here. The parking lot fills up quickly.

Sweet Fire Donna's

$ | Old Town

A popular choice for locals, this barbecue joint is known for brisket, daily specials, and some of the best happy hour deals in town. If you're visiting for lunch, get there either on the earlier or later side to avoid the business crowds. When the weather is fine, enjoy a cocktail on their pup-friendly sidewalk patio.

Whiskey & Oyster

$$ | Old Town
While the interior is sophisticated, the atmosphere is casual. The menu boasts, naturally, an impressive selection of whiskeys and oysters. When in season, diners can enjoy both Maine and classic lobster rolls, crabs, and more. Heartier dishes include seafood gumbo, lobster mac and cheese, and bourbon shrimp 'n' grits. The large, dog-friendly patio is ideal for a relaxed evening out.