Best Restaurants in Alexandria VA (2025)

A 20-seat Japanese kappo jewel where chef-owner Yuh Shimomura serves a seasonal seven-course menu. Lauded by The Washington Post and beloved by locals for precision, warmth, and value, it’s a singular Old Town experience. Book early.

Chef-owners Gabe and Katherine Thompson bring handmade pastas, thoughtful mains, and standout desserts to Old Town. Celebrated in Washingtonian’s 100 Very Best Restaurants 2025, it’s refined but relaxed—perfect for date nights and family meals alike.

A revived Old Town fixture where chef-partner Tony Chittum re-centers Mid-Atlantic flavors with farmers and watermen at heart. Praised by Northern Virginia Magazine and The Washington Post for its comeback and sense of place.

Del Ray’s destination for elegant Nepalese cooking—yak and wild boar momos, wood-fired tandoor, and soulful thalis. Applauded by The Washington Post and a neighborhood staple for celebratory dinners and quiet weeknights alike.

A vibrant, Mexico City–inspired taqueria turning out al pastor from the trompo, birria, tortas, and breakfast dishes all day. Noted by The Washington Post and local critics; celebrated its fifth anniversary in 2025.

A northern Chinese specialist that locals swear by for xiao long bao, pan-fried duck buns, and sizzling spicy fish. Included in The Washington Post’s Alexandria picks; late hours make it a reliable night stop.

Family-run since 1983, this petite French bistro feels timeless—onion soup, duck, bearnaise, and a well-priced cellar. Frequently praised by local media for old-school charm and consistency.

Taverna Cretekou - Review - Alexandria - Washington DC - The Infatuation

Taverna Cretekou has been an Old Town fixture since 1973, and is as perfect for a souvlaki with your grandma as it is for splitting spanakopita with a date. It’s family-run, and has kept a steady stream of loyal diners for over 50 years with stellar staple dishes. Come here to experience Greek dishes that’ll make you feel closer to the Aegean than the Potomac, like the rich and cheesy lamb exohiko and the creamy, lemony glossa aegeou stuffed flounder. photo credit: Nina Palazzolo photo credit: Nina Palazzolo photo credit: Nina Palazzolo Pause Unmute - Madeline Weinfield

Del Ray’s longtime community hub blends seasonal Mid-Atlantic cooking with a killer wine program next door at Planet Wine. Featured by Eater DC and praised by local critics for enduring neighborhood spirit.

An Ethiopian upstart drawing raves from The Washington Post and local press for bold awaze tibs, veggie spreads, and welcoming coffee ceremonies. A lively West End address worth the detour.

An 18th‑century tavern dining room where Alexandria’s history is literally on the walls. Come for colonial-era touches, Virginia fare, and the only-in-Old-Town atmosphere. A classic for visiting friends and family.

A 2025 newcomer channeling Malta and the wider Mediterranean with house‑made pastas, seafood, and a café program. Flagged by Northern Virginia Magazine as one to watch; an energizing addition to Old Town North.

An Old Town landmark since 1932, refreshed with a modern seasonal menu and cocktails while preserving Art Deco charm. Frequently highlighted by local media and adored by Alexandria diners.