Alexandria, Virginia, is just minutes away from Washington D.C and is a culturally-rich, walkable city with small-town charm and urban convenience. Whether you are a tourist or a resident her, there is plenty to see in sight. The Old Town is how it should be. Plucked from a postcard, with its beautifully-preserved, historic architecture and cobblestone streets. The neighborhood of Del Ray is a quirky and colorful and lined with locally-owned businesses. And the waterfront is a picturesque spot to visit all year long. It offers soothing views and plenty of things to do there, including the artist-supported Torpedo Factory, river cruises, and lush parks. There are a number of amazing Alexandria restaurants in this unique city.
When it comes to exploring a city’s unique offerings, there isn’t a more fun way than checking out local restaurants. Here is a guide to some of the best restaurants you need to dine in at while in Alexandria.
Lena’s Wood-Fired Pizza & Tap
Lena’s menu has the most authentic pizzas. The finest double zero flour goes into the making of the dough and pure spring water and the toppings are the finest anywhere. There are other amazing mouth-watering Italian specialties and salads also on the menu. The inspiration for Lena’s Wood-Fired Pizza & Tap comes from the Yates family matriarch, Lena. Lena’s Wood-Fired Pizza & Tap in Alexandria has been created to provide a gathering place where families and friends can escape their hectic daily routines, relax and commune in an environment reminiscent of the family table.
Bastile
Getting to Paris might be tough for you, but dining at Bastille in Alexandria is a worthy alternative. The brewery and bar is owned and run by the husband-and-wife team of Chefs Christophe and Michelle Poteaux. They infuse French flair into the decor and food. The menu includes the tried and tested main course like coq au vin, cassoulet, and escargots, as well as more avant-garde creations like shrimp beignets with spicy guacamole. A “French Quickie” — two courses for lunch in the bar and café space can be opted during the week.
Caphe Ban Mi
For Vietnamese staples like bánh mì, pho, vermicelli, and summer rolls, Caphe Bánh Mì is the Alexandria restaurant to dine in. This shop nails the expected dishes, but they also get creative with some dishes like the broiled catfish bánh mì and vegetarian soy chicken with lemongrass. The prices are actually amazing – grab a sandwich for under $10, while rice or vermicelli entrées would make you shell out a couple bucks more. And don’t skip the coffee in Virginia.
Rus Uz
Rus Uz is the place to be if you want a hearty trip to Central Asia , an August 2018 addition to the Eisenhower area. Former Uzbekistan Embassy Chef Bakhtiyor Rakhmatullaev created the menu at the original Ballston location. This earned multiple mentions in Washingtonian’s annual list of “Best Places to Eat Cheap.” Diners rave over the manti, described in Washingtonian as “palm-sized dumplings…stuffed with peppery lamb and buried under drifts of sour cream.” Ruz Uz makes for an unconventional pre- or post-movie feast in Alexandria.
Gadsby’s Tavern
Not many places can boast of serving dinner since 1770. It is a restaurant that has maintained colonial traditions through the dress of employees, the decor, and the menu. But expect modern takes on “George Washington’s favorite” duckling and the “gentleman’s pye” of beef and lamb. It is great for families in Alexandria made up of multiple generations. Also check out their special events, too, with entertainment and different food and drink offerings.
So, this was our exclusive list of Alexandria restaurants for you. Hope you like them all! Feel free to experiment the various cuisines at other restaurants too as the city has a lot to offer. The city’s culinary scene is evolving and innovating itself!
