SER Restaurant

"Open since 2014, Spanish stalwart Ser continues to shine in its evolving Ballston neighborhood. It’s hard to go wrong with any of the 12-plus tapas on the list, but the tomato bread, gambas al ajillo, croquetas, and deep-fried eggplant are not to miss. Seafood, meat, or vegetable paella for two is another excellent choice, and for a dash of drama at the table, go big with a whole roast suckling pig. Other standouts include crab-topped lobster from the raw bar, gorgeous seasonal salads, and gazpacho when summer calls. Its Spanish co-owner Javier Candon infuses his own spirits, as seen in Ser’s superior gin and tonic. Joselito is its sister spot in Capitol Hill." - Tierney Plumb, Emily Venezky

"Ser is described as a "family-owned, award-winning neighborhood restaurant" in Ballston, Virginia, that serves "authentic comfort foods from Spain in a casual and friendly environment," including a traditional and hearty tortilla de patatas filled with tender potatoes, poached onions, and fluffy eggs." - Stacey Leasca

"From 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., the Ballston bar slings $8 Spanish tapas, wines, and cocktails. Available at the bar and patio only." - Tierney Plumb, Missy Frederick

"Meanwhile, Ser — Joselito’s Spanish comfort food sibling across the Potomac in Ballston — is still “doing great,” he reports. The Eater 38 destination is long known for its raw bar selection, ambitious cocktails, colorful salads, and theatrical orders of dramatically chopped suckling pig and sizable paellas. He says the plan is go all in on Ser once Joselito is done." - Tierney Plumb

"This Arlington favorite for tapas, paellas, and dramatic sharable plates like roast pig, is open Mondays." - Missy Frederick, Tim Ebner