5 Alexandria Neighborhoods to Try If You Are a Foodie
Just fifteen minutes from Washington, D.C., Alexandria, Virginia is a vacation destination in its own right. Rich in architecture and steeped in history, Alexandria is not short on things to do and see – or places to eat at. From traditional American cuisine to intricate ethnic melting pots, Alexandria’s neighborhoods are ripe with unique dining experiences.
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Old Town
Voted one of the South’s Best Cities 2020 by Southern Living, Old Town is truly the heart of Alexandria. It is a nationally designated historic district, filled with centuries-old architecture, brick-lined streets, and walking tours exploring history that predates the American Revolution. Many Old Town Alexandria restaurants are historic experiences all their own, such as Virtue Feed & Grain – a tavern serving food and drink from a repurposed 1800s feed house. King and Rye, a restaurant specializing in southern comfort food, quite literally offers some of the best that Alexandria has to offer. With a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients from farms and butchers, a plate at King and Rye highlights the hard work of many Virginia locals. With its warm and welcoming atmosphere, King and Rye is one of the best restaurants on King Street in Alexandria, VA, to unwind after a day of exploring boutiques and museums.
Del Ray
For lovers of architecture, the Alexandria neighborhood of Del Ray is a must-visit. Classical and authentic Art Deco architecture can be found on every street, sometimes in the most unlikely of places. An artsy neighborhood focused on community and wellness, Del Ray is full of eclectic shops and restaurants that embrace the ideology of the neighborhood. Bring your furry friend along to Barkhaus, a combination indoor and outdoor off-leash dog park and restaurant/bar. Or, do some good and grab a gourmet burger at Holy Cow, where a portion of your bill will go to the charity of your choice.
West End
Just eight miles from Washington, D.C., West End is Alexandria’s fastest-growing neighborhood and home to the city’s barbeque and craft beer scene. Port City Brewing Co.’s locally crafted ales have won national awards, and visitors are invited to sample their creations during regular tastings. If you’re looking for delicious barbeque, The Rocklands Barbeque & Grilling Company has been serving barbeque in the D.C. area for over thirty years. On a budget? Smoking Kow BBQ has been named one of Washington’s Best Places to Eat Cheap.
Arlandria
If America is a melting pot of cultures, Arlandria is a powerful reflection of it. Here you’ll find restaurants featuring the traditional cuisine of cultures from across the globe. For a traditional Peruvian meal, stop by Huascaran’s, owned by two sisters who immigrated from Peru and brought classical Peruvian recipes with them. Royal Nepal’s menu is Himalayan-Nepalese inspired, and Bolivian specialties can be found at Silpancho’s House. Embark on a food tasting adventure in Arlandria and enjoy the unique opportunity to sample traditional flavors from many different countries in one convenient location.
Carlyle and Eisenhower
The contemporary contrast to Alexandria’s Old Town, Carlyle and Eisenhower is the business heart of Alexandria. Science and innovation have shaped both the architecture and the dining scene here, mixing old and new to create interesting culinary combinations. Try Seafood Nachos and Kung Pao Cauliflower at Whiskey and Oyster for an unexpectedly delicious melding of flavors and textures. In the mood for a truly retro meal? Table Talk is a staple of Carlyle and Eisenhower, where it has been serving up dishes in a traditional diner setting since 1976.
No matter which Alexandria neighborhood you choose to visit, there’s no shortage of delicious dishes to try. Grab a menu and find a new favorite!
