Virginia

Joe Theismann’s

1800 Diagonal Rd., Alexandria, VA | 703-683-6313 | American, Bar/Restaurant, Burgers

Thirty five years ago, Joe Theismann’s Restaurant opened its doors to a crowd “hungry” for a place like Joe’s. One of the first restaurant-bars in Virginia, it quickly became popular for its great food, friendly service and comfortable good time. Although Joe Theismann was new to town and a third string quarterback at the time, his name over the door served to draw in those early customers. However it was the food, character and comfort that kept bringing them back again and again.

Since that time, chain restaurants with stamped out menus and prescribed service have attempted to dominate the dining scene. “Sports bars” with their limited menus and loud spaces have proliferated and fizzled. Joe Theismann’s, on the other hand, has survived the test of time and competition by continuing to serve comfort and good service along with excellent cuisine. The food is prepared fresh according to seasonal trends and customer preference. The staff is friendly and attentive. The patrons are pleased. Joe Theismann’s concept and camaraderie have had staying power.

Yet, the restaurant continues to evolve; staying aware of just what it is for which the crowd “hungers” today. It is on the cutting edge in TV technology (even a TV line up in the men’s room), but the high score is for an exceptional dining experience. The menu ranges from Mahi Mahi over lobster risotto to serious snacks. The prices include the full meal rather than conforming to the a la carte trend. The reservation log shows tables for one, families, and regular group banquets and parties. Joe Theismann’s bridges the gap between pricier, stuffy places and pre-fab food, “fast casual” spots. The result is a loyal following that encompasses “regular” daily customers, visiting tourists, celebrities, local workers and residents. Stop in to Joe Theismann’s Restaurant. Come for happy hour or book your next big event. Become a regular, as so many have. View Menu

Laporta’s

1600 Duke St., Alexandria, VA | 703-683-6313 | American, Seafood, Steakhouse

Laporta’s Restaurant follows the creative lead of executive chef and owner Douglas Laporta’s desire to create a place for extraordinary food in a casual, comfortable setting, perfect for relaxing with friends. Laporta’s has an attentively serviced contemporary dining room perfect for a romantic evening out, special occasion or private party, combined with an adjoining intimate Jazz lounge to decompress after work or just while the evening away. Sip a strawberry mojito or one of the many other made from scratch cocktails from our extensive drink list, relax and listen to the live jazz featured nightly. The lounge has the warmth and friendly feel of a locals bar yet with the same excellence of service and consistency of food quality that defines our dining room and exemplifies the restaurant as a whole. The menu features inventive fresh seafoods and hearty pastas complemented by the provincial-style desserts of Margaret Laporta. Their culinary skills, combined with a delightfully warm atmosphere, make for the perfect dining experience. View Menu

Le Refuge

127 N. Washington St., Alexandria, VA | 703-548-4661 | French

Old Town’s Oldest French Restaurant with its Original Owners. In September of 1983, Le Refuge opened in Old Town Alexandria, across the street from Christ Church. As of September 2004 Le Refuge has been in business for over 28 years! The Owners goal has always been to create a relaxing atmosphere, without waiting between courses. Casual attire is welcome; street parking is available. View Menu

Mai Thai

6 King St., Alexandria, VA | 703-548-0600 | Thai

A journey of authentic Thai cuisine for beyond imagination. At Mai Thai Restaurant, They are bringing the most out of Thailand to you in the Old Town Alexandria, VA. The warm atmosphere, attentive service, rich culture, variety of wines and cocktails, and authentic Thai cuisine is what you can find in the contemporary establishment. View Menu

Rustico

827 Slaters Ln., Alexandria, VA | 703-224-5051 | American

Rustico is an exuberant neighborhood restant driven to deliver a one-two punch of honest, robust cooking against a backdrop of amazing beer. Warm vivacious and adamantly unpretentious, Rustico was designed with good times in mind. With a cache of over 400 beers, a busting bar scene and a passionate kitchen committed to its craft, Rustico’s a restaurant to visit with family and friends time and time again. View Menu

The Butcher’s Block

1600 King St., Alexandria, VA | 703-894-5253 | Deli

The Butcher’s Block, A Market by RW is a uniquely charming and practical Old Town Alexandria market. Adjacent to Lorien Hotel & Spa and designed by Vicente Wolf, the shop evokes a European market feel, complete, of course, with a namesake butcher’s block at the front. On the shelves and in the coolers, you’ll find everything you’d want for a perfect picnic, lunch on the go or at-home supper. View Menu

The Wharf

119 King St., Alexandria, VA | 703-836-2834 | Bar/Restaurant, Seafood

History has been written inside the walls of the Wharf, with its 1790’s style architecture featuring original wood columns and beams that are charred black from a Civil War fire. Since 1971, satisfied diners have been heading to The Wharf in Old Town for whole Maine lobster, local soft shell crabs and prime steaks and chops. The restaurant has recently been renovated and remodeled and the menu updated to include many contemporary seafood items along with their traditional Chesapeake Bay creations. View Menu