Where To Eat In Arlington

When it comes to exploring a new city, one of the most exciting aspects is discovering the local culinary scene. Arlington, Virginia, is no exception, with its vibrant neighborhoods, rich history, and diverse cultural influences. With so many options to choose from, finding the perfect spot to grab a bite can be overwhelming, especially for visitors or newcomers to the area. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on where to eat in Arlington, highlighting the best restaurants, cafes, and eateries that showcase the city’s unique flavor and charm.

Overview

Arlington’s dining scene is a reflection of its eclectic neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character and atmosphere. From trendy bars and restaurants in Clarendon to family-friendly eateries in Ballston, and from historic diners in Shirlington to upscale establishments in Rosslyn, there’s something for every taste and budget. Whether you’re in the mood for classic American comfort food, international cuisine, or innovative fusion dishes, Arlington’s culinary landscape has it all.

What to Expect

In this guide, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Arlington’s most popular neighborhoods, highlighting must-try restaurants, hidden gems, and local favorites. We’ll cover everything from breakfast spots to dinner destinations, and from casual eats to upscale dining experiences. Whether you’re a foodie, a local, or just visiting Arlington, this guide is designed to help you navigate the city’s vibrant culinary scene and discover the best places to eat in Arlington.

Where to Eat in Arlington: A Foodie’s Guide

Arlington, Virginia, is a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse range of cuisines to suit every taste and budget. From traditional American comfort food to international flavors, Arlington’s dining scene has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the best places to eat in Arlington, covering popular restaurants, hidden gems, and everything in between.

Breakfast and Brunch Spots

Start your day off right with a delicious breakfast or brunch at one of Arlington’s top-rated eateries.

• The Original Pancake House: This beloved breakfast chain has been serving up fluffy pancakes, waffles, and omelets for over 60 years.
• The Bistro at Courthouse: This cozy French-inspired bistro offers a mouthwatering breakfast menu, including crepes, quiche, and eggs benedict.
• Bayou Bakery, Coffee Bar & Eatery: This New Orleans-style bakery serves up beignets, croissants, and other sweet treats, along with a full breakfast menu.
• The Breakfast Club: This retro-themed diner is a fun spot for breakfast and brunch, with dishes like chicken and waffles, breakfast tacos, and eggs benedict.

Lunch and Sandwich Shops

Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely lunch, Arlington’s got you covered. (See Also: Where To Eat In Oslo Norway)

• Taylor Gourmet: This popular sandwich shop serves up creative, made-to-order subs, wraps, and salads, using only the freshest ingredients.
• BGR The Burger Joint: This gourmet burger joint offers a wide range of juicy burgers, toppings, and sides, including sweet potato fries and onion rings.
• Firehook Crackers: This artisanal bakery and cafe serves up delicious sandwiches, salads, and soups, along with their famous crackers and baked goods.
• Guapo’s: This casual Mexican spot offers a variety of tacos, burritos, and quesadillas, along with a full bar and outdoor seating.

Dinner and Fine Dining

For a special occasion or a night out on the town, Arlington’s fine dining scene has plenty to offer.

• The Liberty Tavern: This upscale American bistro serves up seasonal small plates, craft cocktails, and an extensive wine list in a cozy, rustic-chic setting.
• Ray’s the Steaks: This classic steakhouse offers premium cuts of meat, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine list in a sophisticated, old-school setting.
• Eventide Restaurant: This modern American bistro serves up creative, farm-to-table dishes, along with an extensive wine list and craft cocktails.
• Ragtime Cafe: This Cajun-inspired restaurant offers spicy seafood boils, gumbo, and jambalaya, along with live music and a fun atmosphere.

International Cuisine

Arlington’s diverse dining scene reflects the city’s international community, with a wide range of global cuisines to explore.

• Thai X-ing: This family-owned Thai restaurant serves up authentic, flavorful dishes like pad thai, green curry, and Massaman curry.
• Guapo’s: This casual Mexican spot offers a variety of tacos, burritos, and quesadillas, along with a full bar and outdoor seating.
• Pho 75: This popular Vietnamese restaurant serves up delicious, authentic pho, along with spring rolls, banh mi, and other Vietnamese favorites.
• La Strada: This family-owned Italian restaurant offers traditional dishes like pasta, pizza, and risotto, along with a cozy atmosphere and outdoor seating.

Sweet Treats and Desserts

Indulge your sweet tooth at one of Arlington’s many bakeries, cafes, and dessert shops.

• Bayou Bakery, Coffee Bar & Eatery: This New Orleans-style bakery serves up beignets, croissants, and other sweet treats, along with a full breakfast menu.
• The Creamery: This artisanal ice cream shop offers unique flavors like honey lavender, strawberry balsamic, and earl grey, along with sundaes and milkshakes.
• Cupcaked: This popular cupcake shop offers a wide range of flavors, from classic vanilla and chocolate to creative flavors like maple bacon and strawberry basil.
• The Bakeshop at Courthouse: This cozy bakery serves up a variety of sweet treats, including cakes, cookies, and pastries, along with a full coffee menu.

Food Trucks and Markets

Arlington’s food truck scene is thriving, with a variety of trucks serving up everything from tacos to BBQ to gourmet grilled cheese.

• Arlington Food Truck Park: This food truck park features a rotating lineup of trucks, along with outdoor seating and a full bar.
• Crystal City Food Truck Festival: This monthly festival features a variety of food trucks, along with live music and outdoor seating.
• Arlington Farmers Market: This weekly farmers market features local produce, baked goods, and prepared foods, along with live music and a fun atmosphere.

Recap and Key Takeaways

In conclusion, Arlington’s dining scene has something for everyone, from classic American comfort food to international flavors and sweet treats. Whether you’re in the mood for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or dessert, Arlington’s got you covered. Be sure to check out some of the top-rated restaurants and hidden gems mentioned in this article, and don’t forget to explore the city’s thriving food truck scene and farmers market. (See Also: Where To Eat In Sandy Springs)

Key takeaways:

• Arlington has a diverse dining scene with something for every taste and budget.
• Popular breakfast and brunch spots include The Original Pancake House, The Bistro at Courthouse, and Bayou Bakery.
• Lunch and sandwich shops like Taylor Gourmet, BGR The Burger Joint, and Firehook Crackers offer a wide range of options.
• Dinner and fine dining options include The Liberty Tavern, Ray’s the Steaks, and Eventide Restaurant.
• Arlington’s international cuisine scene features a wide range of global flavors, from Thai to Mexican to Italian.
• Sweet treats and desserts can be found at bakeries, cafes, and dessert shops like Bayou Bakery, The Creamery, and Cupcaked.
• Arlington’s food truck scene is thriving, with a variety of trucks serving up everything from tacos to BBQ to gourmet grilled cheese.

We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your culinary adventure in Arlington. Happy eating!

Frequently Asked Questions: Where to Eat in Arlington

What are the best restaurants in Arlington for brunch?

Arlington has plenty of amazing brunch spots! Some popular options include The Bistro at Courthouse, which serves up delicious omelets and pancakes, and Green Pig Bistro, which offers a farm-to-table brunch menu. If you’re looking for something a bit more casual, consider checking out Bayou Bakery or The Liberty Tavern.

Are there any good restaurants in Arlington that offer outdoor seating?

Absolutely! Arlington has plenty of restaurants with outdoor seating areas where you can enjoy the fresh air and scenic views. Some popular options include Jaleo, which has a large patio area, and Whitlow’s on Wilson, which has a cozy outdoor seating area. You might also consider checking out The G.O.A.T. or Don Tito, both of which have outdoor seating areas with great views of the surrounding area.

What are some good options for vegan or gluten-free dining in Arlington?

Arlington has plenty of options for vegan and gluten-free diners! Some popular spots include Modern Market, which offers a variety of gluten-free and vegan options, and Boccato Gelato, which has vegan gelato flavors. You might also consider checking out The Vegetable Garden, which has a fully plant-based menu, or Green Pig Bistro, which has gluten-free options available. (See Also: Where To Eat In Paris Near Eiffel Tower)

Are there any restaurants in Arlington that offer delivery or takeout?

Yes, many Arlington restaurants offer delivery or takeout options! Some popular spots that offer delivery or takeout include District Taco, which has a variety of tacos and burritos available for delivery, and Bangkok 54, which offers Thai food delivery. You might also consider checking out Uber Eats or Grubhub, which partner with a variety of Arlington restaurants to offer delivery options.

What are some good restaurants in Arlington for a romantic dinner?

Arlington has plenty of romantic restaurants perfect for a night out with your special someone! Some popular options include The Liberty Tavern, which has a cozy atmosphere and delicious American cuisine, and Jaleo, which offers a romantic patio area and Spanish-inspired dishes. You might also consider checking out Ray’s the Steaks, which has a intimate atmosphere and delicious steak options.