Nestled by the riverside, this vibrant spot features delicious steak and seafood, complemented by a lively brunch scene and stunning water views.
"A power lunch, perhaps with a martini or two, is what Ada’s dining room is best for. But we also come here to sit outside, because, as its name implies, the restaurant has stellar waterfront views. Unsurprisingly, the menu is seafood-focused, and they’re known for their jumbo leek and shallot crab cakes. And while those are excellent, don’t confine yourself to their signature dish—the seared tuna with avocado mousse, grilled kale salad, and open-hearth cooked steaks are equally delicious." - madeline weinfield
"Ada’s on the River will offer a three-course prix fixe spread in addition to the a la carte menu on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Highlights include wood fired prime rib and a chocolate hazelnut cheesecake. Priced at $79 per person (and $29 for kids) from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Christmas Even and from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Christmas Day." - Vinciane Ngomsi
"This addition to the waterfront, heavy on meats and seafood, has everything from wedge salads to smoked ricotta gnocchi." - Missy Frederick, Eater Staff
"Since opening on Old Town Alexandria’s waterfront in January 2021, Ada’s has consistently packed the house and won reviews that justify the bustling scene. Here chef Adil Arghandous serves “giant,” cylindrical crab cakes with creamed leeks, pickled shallots, and a preserved lemon remoulade." - Vinciane Ngomsi, Eater Staff
"The Alexandria Restaurant Partnrs’s acclaimed wood-burning restaurant in Old Town celebrates Thanksgiving with a three-course meal from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. ($59 per person and $19 for children). Starters like preserved root vegetable tartare are followed by mains like smokey turkey breast roulade with cranberry-charred orange preserves or prime filet mignon with harissa roasted pumpkin, salsify, beets, sunchokes, sauce choron, and watercress. Endings include pumpkin tart and maple pecan cheesecake. Reserve a seat online or call. Alexandria Restaurant Partners’s nearby sister spots Mia’s Italian Kitchen and Vola’s Dockside Grill also offer three-course holiday dinners for $39 per person." - Tierney Plumb