Food & Dining
Restaurants | Catering | Bakeries/Specialty Stores
Do It Yourself/Cooking Classes
Restaurants
There are so many great restaurants in the area, we can't list them all. These are our staff and reader favorites, the hidden gems that you may not have heard of. If you have a favorite and think it deserves to be on the list, click here.
A la Lucia, 703-836-5123
315 Madison St., Alexandria, VA 22314
Specializing in southern Italian cuisine, our dishes are simple, not trendy. Flavored by little more than the wonderfully fresh ingredients, the food here stays true to a traditional Italian table.
Afghan Kabob, 703-913-7008
6357 Rolling Rd., Springfield, Va 22150
Experience the finest in Afghan food and hospitality at Afghan Kabob Restaurant. Located in West Springfield Shopping Center, this family owned and operated restaurant serves the finest kabobs in the area.
Asian Bistro, 703-836-1515
809 King St., Alexandria, VA 22314
Art deco with an Asian touch—featuring fabulous food, great atmosphere and a fresh sushi bar. Enjoy dishes from Japan, China, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia and elsewhere in the east. Sophisticated yet comfortable dining for lunch and dinner.
Bob & Edith's Diner, 703-920-6103
2310 Columbia Pike, Arlington, VA 22204
Bob & Edith's looks and feels just like a true old-time diner. Open 24 hours, the extensive menu features sandwiches and more, but the most popular is the all day breakfast choices cooked up on the vintage grill.
Cedar Knoll Inn, 703-799-1501
9030 Lucia Lane, Alexandria, VA 22308
The Cedar Knoll Inn is the perfect place for a romantic dinner for two, an elegant wedding ceremony and/or reception and a host of other special occasions. On a gorgeous and tranquil day, you may want to dine outside on the terrace or enjoy the view of the Potomac from inside.
Choices by Shawn, 703-385-5433
3950 Chain Bridge Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030
Choices by Shawn features classic American Cuisine with a healthy twist. We cater to people with special dietary needs and offer a variety of Gluten Free (including breads, pastas, crackers and croutons) options as well as other allergy sensitive items, including a variety of vegetarian selections. Come for homestyle cooking in a friendly relaxed atmosphere.
Dandy Restaurant Cruise Ships, 703-683-6076
Zero Prince Street, Alexandria, VA 2231
Similar to the river boats of Europe, the Dandy cruise ships were designed to cruise under the dramatic low-arched stone bridges of Washington DC, cruising past our Nation's monuments to Georgetown and back to beautiful, historic Old Town Alexandria while you enjoy gourmet dining and dancing.
Dishes of India, 703-660-6085
1510 Belle View Blvd., Alexandria, VA 22307
Tucked away in Belle View Shopping Center, Dishes of India is a popular spot for traditional Indian food from all corners of India. Specialties include Mughlai, Tandoori, Charcoal Barbeque Grill and Indian Curries.
El Pueblo, 703-455-4401
9550 Old Keene Mill Rd., Burke, VA 22015
This family friendly restaurant serves up some great Mexican food. Start with an appetizer of yucca or pupusas while you choose from their many entrees and be sure to save room for some dessert. Children's menu for those 10 and younger.
Evening Star Cafe, 703-549-5051
2000 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria Va 22301
Both a classic neighborhood restaurant and a destination for diners throughout the area, the Evening Star features sophisticated and eclectic American food, one of the region's most extensive and best-priced wine lists, and two separate lounges to relax in.
Kilroy's Restaurant & Sports Bar, 703-321-7733
5250-A Port Royal Rd., Springfield, VA 22151
This locally owned family favorite features steak, seafood, salads, sandwiches and much more. Come dine in a cozy booth or visit the sports bar with its 36 TVs. Kilroy’s also has a beautiful outdoor patio which is open all year long.
Los Tios, 703-299-9290
2615 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria, VA 22301
Fine Tex-Mex and Salvadorean food. The specialty of the house is the Los Tios Fajitas, but there are lots of items to choose from.
Nood Food Cafe, 703-591-4068
4068 Jermantown Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030
We are proud to introduce a unique dining experience at Nood Food Cafe: we serve all natural foods, no artificial ingredients and no preservatives, just fresh food. Open weekdays for breakfast and lunch and we invite you for a delectable Sunday brunch from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Peking Duck Restaurant, 703-768-2774
7531 Richmond Hwy, Alexandria, Virginia 22306
The best of China on Route 1, Peking Duck Restaurant has become synonymous with the famous dish — Peking Duck. Every week unique specials are offered, many using fresh fruits and vegetables and delightful sauces — a great family tradition.
Pilar's, 703-317-9295
2249 Huntington Ave., Alexandria, VA 22303
Specializing in Central American fare; beef soup, yucca with crispy pork medallions are a specialty.
Tempo Restaurant, 703-370-7900
4231 Duke Street, Alexandria, Va 22304
Tempo serves fine French cuisine at modest prices compared to those in DC. Creative daily specials along with their regular menu will please any palate. The waiters are knowledgeable, friendly and efficient.
TK Thai, 703-866-4577
7022 Commerce St., Springfield, VA 22150
This small gem of a restaurant is known to Springfield locals for its authentic Thai food, fast service and friendly staff.
Thai Peppers, 703-739-7627
2018 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria, VA 22301
We offer a wide range of Thai food such as lemon grass soup, Thai sweet and sour stir fried noodles, and even sweet mango with sticky rice for dessert.
Tokyo Inn, 703-923-9800
6661 Backlick Rd, Springfield, VA 22150
Tokyo Inn is one of the only traditional Japanese restaurants in the area and features a wide selection of sushi, sashimi and hibachi meals, as well as hot entrees such as tempura and teriyaki.
Yechon, 703-914-4646
4121 Hummer Rd., Annandale, VA 22003
Korean and Japanese cuisine served 24 hours a day. Full Sushi & Sashimi bar or enjoy a made-to-order barbeque feast cooked on the hideaway cook top at the center of every table.
Vaso's Kitchen, 703-548-2747
1225 Powhatan St., Alexandria, VA 22314
Located in the old Dixie Pig Barbeque House with the historic neon sign permanently on the outside, Vaso's serves wonderful standard Greek and Mediterranean dishes, including gyro platters, pasta dishes, pizzas, and pita bread sandwiches. Save room for the excellent tiramisu.
Catering
American Catering, 703-449-9190
Serving Northern Virginia
From 50 to 5,000 guests, we offer total turn-key operations, catering for your coporate event, wedding, gala events, holiday parties and backyard barbeques. Great food, great service and great locations make great events.
Fusions Cuisine, 703-898-0728
Serving Northern Virginia
Fusions Cuisine plans and produces one-of-a-kind events using unique and personalized menus. Our attention to detail is evident in every dish and our signature food tastes every bit as good as it looks. We also enjoy sharing our craft with others during our intimate cooking classes.
Bakeries/Speciality Stores
Artfully Chocolate | Kingsbury Confections, 703-635-7917
2003A Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria, VA 22301
A chocolatier/cocoa bar and art gallery filled with delicious chocolate, brilliant art, fun, fantasy and spectacle. Come see for yourself.
Caboose Cafe & Bakery, 703-566-1283
2419 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria, VA 22301
Caboose Cafe & Bakery features free wireless, decorative murals and prime outdoor seating, in addition to delectable cakes, pies and pastries, artisan bread, peasant sandwiches and much more. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner featuring American favorites and Ethiopian specialities.
German Gourmet, 703-534-1908
7185 Lee Hwy, Falls Church, VA 22046
Come in and enjoy German Gourmet’s full line of fresh meats, cheeses, bratwursts and wieners. Experience homemade delectables such as cakes, desserts, pastries, salads and sauerkraut.
Heidelberg Pastry Shop, 703-527-8394
2150 N. Culpeper Street Arlington, VA 22207
From the breakfast pastries and distinctive breads to the deli foods and delectable desserts, Heidelberg Pastry Shoppe is a one-stop gourmet haven with a friendly, personal atmosphere. So take a number, pour a complimentary cup of coffee, and enjoy the Heidelberg experience!
My Bakery & Cafe, 703-842-7554
3839 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria, VA 22305
A favorite for pleasant dining and superb Latin American and Bolivian fare. Savor a different cuisine for breakfast, lunch or dinner—as well as delicious pastries, breads, empanadas and our famous cakes for any occasion including weddings, birthdays, anniversaries and graduations.
The Italian Store, 703-528-6266
3123 Lee Hwy, Arlington, VA 22201
If you're looking for authentic Italian subs, this is the place. And their expertise doesn't stop there. Pizza, available by the pie or slice, and Philly style subs are also superb. Great selection of condiments, sauces, pastas and more for your kitchen.
The Swiss Bakery
5224 Port Royal Rd., Springfield, VA 22151, 703-321-3670
9536 Old Keene Mill Rd, Burke, VA 22015, 703-569-3670
We are a full service retail bakery specializing in Swiss and German products. In addition to our delicious breads and cakes, our team of chefs has selected a discriminating collection of imported gourmet foods, including some hard to find world class chocolates.
Victoria's Cakery, 703-273-0800
10430 Main St., Fairfax, VA 22030
Family owned since 1984, Victoria's Cakery is a favorite for homemade cakes, especially wedding cakes. Everything is made from scratch, right at the shop.
Unwined, 703-820-8600
3690-J King St., Alexandria, VA 22302
A very fine wine store that carries an excellent selection of high quality wines and over 200 different beers, as well as gourmet pastas, select cheeses, smoked fish, custom gift baskets, French champagne, and a wide variety of appetizers. Wine tasting every Saturday, 12 noon-5 p.m.
Do It Yourself/Cooking Classes
A Pinch of Thyme, 703-683-5034
Serving Northern Virginia
You and your friends can benefit from our vast experience in your own home. Lessons range from Cooking in 30 minutes to Vegetarian Cooking. Cooking lessons are done in the privacy of your home for just you or a group of friends. All levels are welcome.
Artisan Confections, 703-239-0616
4815-B Lee Hwy., Arlington, VA 22207
Have you ever wondered what goes into making beautiful bonbons? Satisfy both your desire for knowledge and your craving for chocolate at one of our interesting and exciting classes. Enjoy two hours of hands-on instruction and demonstrations.
Briar Patch, 703-327-5911
23130 Briar Patch Ln, Middleburg, VA 20117
We hold cooking class weekends at our bed and breakfast once a month in our low season of November through March or April. Learn how to prepare 4 or 5 course gourmet meals. Wines from local wineries are featured.
Cooking With Chef Roberto Donna, 703-412-5076
2250-B Crystal Dr., Arlington, VA 22202
Join Chef Roberto Donna in the kitchen and learn to cook traditional Italian cuisine from one of the best. Perfect for an outing with friends or as something fun to do with that special someone. Speak to Lyn for more information.
Corner Cuisine, 703-339-1736
9000 Lorton Station Blvd., Suite K, Lorton, VA 22079
Corner Cuisine helps you take the stress out of dinner! Come to our gourmet kitchen to effortlessly prepare delicious family meals in less time. We do all the planning, shopping, chopping, slicing, dicing, and cleaning for you. Interested?
Dinner Done, 571-281-4444
13860 D Braddock Road, Centreville, VA 20121
Come to our energizing professional kitchen and prepare family-sized meals in just two hours, or let our surrogate chef prepare them for you.
Judy Harris Cooking School, 703-768-3767
2402 Nordok Place, Alexandria , VA 22306
Judy Harris Cooking School offers a variety of international cuisines, including Italian, Spanish, Thai, Mediterranean, New Orleans Creole, Chinese, Mexican, French and Indian. Each class features one complete dinner emphasizing technique and creativity.
Let's Dish
6550-G Little River Tnpk., Alexandria, VA 22312, 703-750-0790
11215 Lee Highway Suites N & P, Fairfax. VA 22030, 703-359-1450
There are lots of ways to dish. You can assemble the meals yourself at an in-store session, or have us do the customized assembly for you. You can place an order for DishDelivery, pop in last-minute to select a Ready Made meal or two, or get the gang together for a Private Party.
Mimi Clark's Vegan Cooking Classes, 703-643-2713
9302 Hallston Ct., Fairfax Station, VA 22039
Vegan cooking classes are held once a month and include recipes, organic food samples, manufacturers' samples and coupons.
Restaurants | Catering | Bakeries/Specialty Stores
Do It Yourself/Cooking Classes