Beyond the towering monuments and historical landmarks, Arlington, Virginia, pulses with a vibrant energy, particularly when it comes to its diverse and ever-evolving food scene. This bustling urban county just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., offers a culinary landscape that rivals its more famous neighbor. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply looking for a satisfying meal, Arlington provides a tempting array of dining options to satisfy every craving and budget. From casual neighborhood eateries to upscale dining experiences that will tantalize your taste buds, Arlington stands as a true culinary destination, well worth exploring.
This article serves as your comprehensive guide to navigating the best food places in Arlington. We’ll delve into the distinct neighborhoods, highlighting must-try restaurants and diverse cuisines, helping you discover hidden gems and local favorites. Whether you’re searching for the perfect date night spot, a family-friendly brunch, or a quick and delicious bite, prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will leave you wanting more.
Neighborhood Delights and Culinary Hotspots
Arlington’s culinary scene is as diverse as its neighborhoods, each boasting a unique character and a collection of restaurants that reflect its individual charm. Let’s explore some of the key areas and uncover their culinary treasures.
Clarendon: Where Trendy Meets Tasty
Clarendon is known for its lively atmosphere, attracting a young and vibrant crowd. This neighborhood offers a plethora of dining options, from bustling bars with creative cocktails to sophisticated restaurants serving innovative cuisine. Clarendon’s food places reflect the area’s energy.
Lyon Hall
A brasserie with a distinctly European feel, Lyon Hall offers a delectable menu of classic French and German dishes, alongside an impressive selection of beers and wines. With its warm ambiance and friendly service, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxed dinner or a celebratory gathering. Expect a slightly higher price point but worth it for the quality and atmosphere. A signature dish to try is their Alsatian Tart.
Ambar Clarendon
If you’re in the mood for something different, Ambar is the place to be. This popular restaurant serves Balkan cuisine in a small plates, all-you-can-eat format. It’s a fantastic way to sample a variety of flavorful dishes and experience the unique flavors of the Balkans. The price is reasonable, especially if you come hungry!
The Liberty Tavern
This upscale yet approachable establishment boasts a wood-fired oven, churning out delicious pizzas and a variety of seasonal dishes. The Liberty Tavern also features a fantastic craft beer selection and a lively bar scene. Expect to spend a moderate amount for a good time here.
Ballston: Modern Flavors and Tech-Savvy Dining
Ballston has transformed into a modern hub, attracting a tech-savvy crowd with its sleek buildings and innovative businesses. The food scene in Ballston reflects this contemporary vibe, with a focus on fresh ingredients, inventive menus, and cutting-edge dining experiences.
SER
Short for “Simple, Easy, Real,” SER offers authentic Spanish cuisine in a cozy and inviting setting. From tapas to paella, their menu is filled with flavorful dishes that will transport you to the heart of Spain. Expect a moderate price range.
Kapnos Taverna
Experience the vibrant flavors of Greece at Kapnos Taverna. This restaurant offers a modern take on traditional Greek cuisine, with a focus on wood-fired dishes and fresh seafood. It’s a great place to share plates and enjoy a communal dining experience. This is a good spot if you are looking to spend a bit more for high-quality ingredients.
Punch Bowl Social Arlington
This lively entertainment complex offers a variety of activities, from bowling to karaoke, alongside a diverse menu of American comfort food and creative cocktails. Punch Bowl Social is perfect for a fun night out with friends or family. The price will vary depending on if you order food, and the activities you participate in.
Crystal City/National Landing: A Culinary Renaissance
Crystal City, now rebranded as National Landing, is undergoing a massive revitalization, attracting new residents and businesses. This transformation has also sparked a culinary renaissance, with a wave of new restaurants opening up, offering a diverse range of cuisines. This is one of the best areas to find food places in Arlington.
Jaleo
This long-standing restaurant is a Jose Andres staple. Enjoy traditional tapas and paella at a higher price point than some of the other restaurants listed.
Commonwealth Joe Coffee Roasters
Serving specialty coffee as well as high-end canned fish, this is a quirky and delicious spot to enjoy a light bite and coffee.
Restaurants
This area has many chain restaurants that are affordable and quick.
Other Notable Areas with Great Food
While Clarendon, Ballston, and National Landing are major culinary hubs, other neighborhoods in Arlington also deserve recognition. Shirlington boasts a charming village atmosphere with a mix of restaurants, while Rosslyn offers stunning views of the city and a selection of upscale dining options. Pentagon City, home to the Fashion Centre at Pentagon City, also offers a range of restaurants to cater to shoppers and residents alike. Exploring these areas will reveal even more hidden culinary gems.
Cuisine-Focused Recommendations: A Flavorful Journey
Beyond neighborhoods, Arlington’s food scene shines with its diverse array of cuisines. Let’s dive into specific culinary categories and highlight some of the best places to indulge your cravings.
The Best Italian Delights
For a taste of Italy, Arlington offers several excellent options.
Pupatella
This casual restaurant serves authentic Neapolitan pizzas cooked in a wood-fired oven. The pizzas are made with fresh, high-quality ingredients and cooked to perfection, making Pupatella a favorite among pizza lovers.
Picante
Although slightly more expensive than Pupatella, Picante offers handmade pasta dishes in addition to pizza. The small plates are a great way to start your meal here!
Mexican and Latin American Flavors
If you’re craving the vibrant flavors of Mexico and Latin America, Arlington has you covered.
Guapos Restaurant
Guapos is a great place to bring a crowd to enjoy Tex-Mex food and delicious margaritas.
El Pollo Rico
If you prefer a simpler experience, El Pollo Rico is a small storefront that only sells rotisserie chicken and some sides. The chicken is worth every penny!
American Comfort Food: A Taste of Home
For those seeking classic American comfort food, Arlington delivers with its selection of diners, pubs, and gastropubs.
Ted’s Bulletin
This spot is known for its high-quality diner staples as well as homemade pop-tarts.
Ray’s in the City
Although technically a steakhouse, Ray’s in the City can still fulfill any desire for American comfort food with its hearty side dishes and generous portions.
Asian Fusion, Japanese, and Korean Cuisine
Arlington’s Asian food scene is a testament to the county’s diversity, with a range of restaurants serving everything from delicate sushi to flavorful Korean barbecue.
Yume Sushi
Enjoy fresh sushi at an affordable price point at this restaurant.
Bonchon Chicken
If fried chicken is what you crave, this is the best place in Arlington to get crispy, flavorful fried chicken.
Special Occasions and Dining Experiences: Creating Memories
Arlington’s restaurants cater to a variety of occasions, from romantic date nights to family gatherings.
Date Night Destinations: Setting the Mood
For a romantic evening out, Arlington offers several restaurants with intimate atmospheres and exquisite cuisine.
Ruth’s Chris Steak House
This steakhouse is located in Crystal City and boasts delicious steaks at a high price.
Mele Bistro
This restaurant has small plates and delicious entrees in a warm setting.
Family Dining: Creating Lasting Memories
When dining with family, it’s important to find restaurants that offer a welcoming atmosphere, kid-friendly menus, and reasonable prices.
Crafthouse
Crafthouse in Arlington offers food options that can appeal to every member of your family.
District Taco
For a more casual meal, District Taco is affordable, delicious, and quick.
Brunch Hotspots: The Perfect Weekend Treat
Brunch is a weekend ritual for many, and Arlington boasts several restaurants that excel at this leisurely meal.
Ambar
This restaurant also appears in the Clarendon section. Brunch here is delicious and bottomless.
Lyon Hall
Lyon Hall serves amazing brunch dishes and has great specials depending on the season.
Happy Hour Hideaways: Unwinding After Work
After a long day at work, unwinding with drinks and appetizers is a welcome treat. Arlington’s bars and restaurants offer a variety of happy hour specials to help you relax and socialize.
Bar Bao
For delicious small plates, Bar Bao has great prices and deals on drinks.
A-Town Bar & Grill
A-Town has daily deals and tons of TV to catch up on games.
Budget-Friendly Bites: Delicious and Affordable
Eating out doesn’t have to break the bank. Arlington offers a range of affordable options, from food trucks to ethnic eateries, where you can enjoy delicious meals without emptying your wallet.
Cheap Eats and Hidden Gems: A Culinary Adventure
Pupusas To Go
Located in a gas station, this spot serves authentic pupusas that are simply amazing.
Taco Bamba
A smaller local chain, Taco Bamba serves tacos that are innovative and high quality, without breaking the bank.
Ben’s Chili Bowl
Located right outside of Arlington, Ben’s Chili Bowl is a classic spot to enjoy a chili dog for a decent price.
Desserts and Sweet Treats: A Sweet Ending
No culinary journey is complete without indulging in a sweet treat. Arlington boasts a variety of dessert shops, bakeries, and coffee shops where you can satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ice Cream and Frozen Treats: Cool Delights
Ice Cream Jubilee
This place has delicious and innovative flavors. It is a local favorite and a must-try if you love ice cream.
Bakeries and Pastries: A Sweet Symphony
Heidelberg Pastry Shoppe
A local staple, Heidelberg has a variety of cakes and pastries to try. The shoppe also serves breakfast and lunch.
Coffee Shops with Great Desserts: A Perfect Pairing
Northside Social
This coffee shop is open late and has coffee, pastries, and even wine!
Conclusion: A Culinary Tapestry Waiting to be Explored
Arlington’s food scene is a vibrant tapestry woven with diverse flavors, unique atmospheres, and passionate chefs. From the trendy restaurants of Clarendon to the modern eateries of Ballston, and the revitalized dining scene of National Landing, Arlington offers a culinary adventure waiting to be savored.
So, whether you’re a local resident or a visitor exploring the area, we encourage you to venture out and discover the many delicious restaurants that Arlington has to offer. Explore the neighborhoods, sample the cuisines, and create your own culinary memories.
What are your favorite Arlington restaurants? Share your recommendations in the comments below!
From casual cafes to fine dining establishments, Arlington is a culinary adventure waiting to be savored, a place where every palate can find its perfect match. Bon appétit!
