Situated across from the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., Arlington offers the best of both worlds – a big city environment with a suburban atmosphere. While Arlington is known as a great place to live and work, it is also a fun place to eat. There is a plethora of Arlington VA restaurants that serve up mouthwatering cuisine.
In no particular order, here are our top picks for the best Arlington VA restaurants:
1. Circa Bistros
Trendy and innovative, Circa Bistros is known for their creative American fare and friendly service. At their Clarendon, Arlington location, you will find an extensive brunch, lunch, dinner, and dessert menu, as well as a happy hour and late night menu. Seasonal dishes are also available and change throughout the year. Enjoy tasty options like lobster ravioli, fried calamari, and jambalaya. Pair your meal with a beverage from the restaurant’s menu of fine wines, handcrafted cocktails, or local craft beers.
2. Whitlow’s On Wilson
This neighborhood bar and grill is a popular hangout for both Arlington locals and tourists alike. Stop in to enjoy live music, a rooftop tiki bar, and a weekend brunch buffet. Whitlow’s On Wilson also offers delivery and is available for private events. Begin your visit with one of their popular starters, such as the Boom Boom Sliders or their homemade chili. For an entrée, feast on some margarita chicken or fish tacos. Don’t leave without dessert (we’re warning you)! The menu includes scrumptious options like brownie sundaes and fresh apple pie.
3. Ambar
Ambar in north Arlington is known for delivering its customers with an authentic Balkan experience that captures the unique flavors of Eastern Europe. Their new location in Clarendon spans more than 3,600 square feet and serves a variety of dishes inspired by the Balkan Peninsula, but with their own unique twist. Ambar is open seven days a week and offers brunch, lunch, dinner, happy hour, and late night options. They also have deals and discounts throughout the month, including all-you-can-eat meals. Book a table and experience some international cuisine without having to leave the country.
4. Alto Fumo
Alto Fumo is an impressive pizza and pasta bar serving up some of the best pies in town. When visiting this pizzeria, you can expect lots of bold flavors with a home cooked feel. With its open kitchen atmosphere, good drinks, and friendly people, Alto Fumo is a great place to hang out and enjoy a meal. In addition to pizza and pasta, the restaurant offers salads, old school subs, and starters like meatball sliders, chicken wings, and bruschetta. You will also discover an extensive bar menu and happy hour offerings.
5. Oz Restaurant & Bar
If you like eating, drinking, and good times, spend an evening at Oz Restaurant & Bar. Developed by owner and Aussie native, Michael Darby, the popular eatery offers guests a contemporary dining environment with delicious meals prepared with an international flare. Oz Restaurant & Bar is centrally located in Clarendon and features exotic meats, small plates, and a large menu of international wines and beers. Stop in for brunch, lunch, dinner, or happy hour or book a table ahead of time to secure your spot. The restaurant is also open for private events.
6. Four Sisters Grill
Four Sisters Grill is a Vietnamese restaurant offering fast-casual dining in Arlington. Their dishes are inspired by the street foods of Vietnam, with menu options like rice, noodles, and banh mi (sandwiches). Appetizers range from crispy spring rolls in pork or vegetarian options, green papaya salad with shrimp, pork, or tofu, or fresh garden rolls. When you arrive to the Four Sisters Grill, make your way to the counter where you will order your meal. You can then take a seat and a server will bring your dishes directly to your table. Carry out is also available.
7. Green Pig Bistro
Make a reservation at Green Pig Bistro for classic rustic French cooking with an American twist. The meals at the Green Pig are more than just food, but a work of art. Their brunch, lunch, and dinner menus include a wide variety of options, such as Black Angus bacon cheeseburgers with hand cut fries. The bar is also open at select times.
8. East West Grill
Known as the house of kabobs and sandwiches, the East West Grill offers a wide menu of meal options cooked on a charcoal grill. In addition to having free parking and free delivery, East West Grill doubles as a catering service. Stop in for all of your favorite dishes, including some fabulous stews from the Indian subcontinent including Haleem, Nahari, and Paya.
Grab a Bite to Eat
Looking for a bite to eat in Northern Virginia? Enjoy a meal at one of many amazing Arlington VA restaurants scattered throughout the area. After grabbing a delicious dinner on your night out, feel free to try one of our escape rooms!