7 Best Restaurants in Northern Virginia, Virginia

Soaring ceilings, a woodsy lakeside location, and a koi pond make this one of the most striking dining rooms in the area. Executive chef Bertrand Chemel's introduction to cooking began with an apprenticeship at a French bakery, and his flair for rising dough shows. The playful cuisine continually surprises with a five-course tasting menu that changes monthly. Diners can also order à la carte. 

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.

A 90-minute drive from the District takes you past hills and farms to the English-style country manor that is the site of this well-regarded hotel restaurant. The service matches the setting, and diners can choose items from two menus: Gastronauts (contemporary endeavors) or Good Earth (vegetarian), both of which have dishes that rotate daily. Wine pairings are offered for an additional price. Desserts are fanciful, and the smart cheese selections are overseen by a maître de fromage. There’s also a new, more casual restaurant, Patty O’s Café and Bakery, across the street.

The inn also offers 23 sumptuous guest rooms created by Joyce Evans, a London stage and set designer.

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.

The depth of Mason Social's seasonal menu has made it a hit since its opening in 2015. Adventurous eaters will relish options like the marrow burger while those happier with more traditional staples will be delighted with the fried green tomatoes or pan-seared rockfish. A mix of signature and classic cocktails provides plenty of boozy drinks to choose from.

Be sure to make reservations because foodies flock here for a taste of its award-winning Modern American cuisine. Vermilion favors locally sourced, sustainable ingredients, though quality trumps local here, so you may find Parisian gnocchi alongside Maryland crab croquettes on this mid-Atlantic menu. Don't miss the fantastic homemade pasta, bread, and desserts.