Restaurants in Alexandria offer history with a side of flavor: colonial buildings, waterfront views, and menus that reflect both Southern heritage and global inspiration. It’s where I stroll through Old Town and settle in for a meal that’s as thoughtfully prepared as it is beautifully served.
I’ve got shrimp and grits with a Chesapeake twist, a craft cocktail infused with local herbs, and gas lanterns flickering just outside the window—right here in historic, flavor-rich Alexandria, Virginia. Who knew dining could feel like stepping into a story?
"Timeworn beauty, fresh flavors, and unforgettable charm? This is Alexandria dining—refined, rooted, and full of soul."
This is Why I Keep Coming Back for More:
Unique Restaurants in Alexandria, VA:
1. Savor French-Inspired Fare in a Chic Setting at Bastille
Bastille Brasserie and Bar brings the heart of French cuisine to Old Town Alexandria in a warm, inviting setting. Since 2006, this family-owned gem has been delighting diners with seasonal, modern takes on classic French bistro fare.
Recommended For: Francophiles, date nights, and anyone seeking refined yet approachable French cuisine in Alexandria.
- Indulge in seasonal French fare crafted with a modern, chef-driven twist.
- Choose from à la carte options or curated multi-course prix fixe menus.
- Dine in a romantic setting or enjoy lighter bites and drinks at the bar.
- Save with weekday specials, including the “French Quickie” lunch deal.
- Experience the creativity of Chefs Christophe and Michelle Poteaux firsthand.
Bastille, 606 N. Fayette Street, Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: 703-519-3776
2. If You Love Wine-Paired Dining, Book a Table at Bistro Sancerre
Bistro Sancerre offers a bold, modern take on classic French cuisine in the heart of Old Town Alexandria. This stylish and spacious bistro boasts a sleek interior and a romantic outdoor patio perfect for warm-weather dining.
Recommended For: Lovers of French cuisine, wine enthusiasts, and couples looking for modern dining in a romantic setting.
- Start with elevated French appetizers like escargot or foie gras with a twist.
- Enjoy hearty mains like filet mignon, lamb shank, or seafood cassoulet.
- Visit during lunch for lighter classics like crepes and Croque Monsieur.
- Relax on the romantic patio or dine in the sleek, contemporary interior.
- Pair your meal with a selection from the extensive French-focused wine list.
Bistro Sancerre, 1725 Duke St, Old Town Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: 703-634-2720
Date Ideas:
3. Feast on Fresh Seafood and Waterfront Views at Blackwall Hitch
Blackwall Hitch is a stylish, coastal-inspired dining destination in Alexandria that blends modern design with maritime history. Named after the Blackwall Hitch knot used by 19th-century English immigrants to secure ships to the docks, the restaurant delivers both ambiance and heritage.
Recommended For: Seafood lovers, brunch or dinner dates, and anyone drawn to upscale coastal cuisine in a chic, nautical setting.
- Dine on seasonal dishes crafted from the freshest locally sourced ingredients.
- Enjoy Raw Bar selections, roasted flatbreads, gourmet burgers, and hearty entrées.
- Learn the story behind the historic Blackwall Hitch knot that inspired the name.
- Relax in a sleek, modern interior with coastal charm and riverfront views.
- Visit for a refined lunch, dinner, or special evening by the water.
Blackwall Hitch, 5 Cameron Street, Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: 703-739-6090
4. Enjoy Belgian-Inspired Classics with a Twist at Brabo Brasserie
Brabo Brasserie brings the flair of Parisian dining to Old Town Alexandria, offering an elegant French culinary experience in a stylish, European-inspired setting. Located within the Archer Hotel, Brabo serves daily dinner and a popular Sunday brunch in the Brasserie, while its more relaxed Tasting Room offers casual French delights all day long.
Recommended For: Romantic date nights, French cuisine lovers, and those seeking a chic bistro vibe with both formal and casual dining options.
- Share the signature Le Grand Duck Flambé, available by advance order for two.
- Indulge in French classics like Beef Bourguignon and Confit Duck Leg.
- Brunch in Parisian style every Sunday with beautifully plated seasonal fare.
- Relax in the Tasting Room with local cheeses, mussels, and French tarts.
- Dine in a sophisticated setting that combines elegance with modern charm.
Brabo Brasserie, 1600 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: 703-894-3440
5. If You Crave Riverside Romance and Refined Plates, Dine at Cedar Knoll
Cedar Knoll is a historic and elegant dining destination located on land that once belonged to George Washington’s estate. Overlooking the scenic Potomac River, the restaurant offers three distinctive dining areas—each with its own ambiance for lunch, dinner, or brunch.
Recommended For: Romantic riverfront dining, brunch with a view, and history lovers looking for refined cuisine in a storied setting.
- Start with fresh oysters or pan-roasted mussels for a flavorful opening course.
- Dine in the elegant Presidential Room or sun-filled Botanical Room, each offering unique charm.
- Enjoy brunch favorites like Poached Eggs in Potato Nests with a Potomac River view.
- Explore menus focused on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and regional flavor.
- Visit a historic property once part of George Washington’s farm for a meal steeped in ambiance.
Cedar Knoll, 9030 Lucia Lane, Alexandria, VA 22308
Phone: 703-780-3665
6. Watch the Sunset Over the Potomac While Dining at Chart House
Chart House stands out as one of Alexandria’s premier romantic dining spots, thanks to its breathtaking waterfront location on the banks of the Potomac River. Guests can choose to dine indoors or enjoy al fresco seating on the patio during pleasant weather, all while taking in sweeping river and city views.
Recommended For: Waterfront dining, romantic date nights, and seafood lovers looking for a scenic, upscale experience in Alexandria.
- Dine with panoramic views of the Potomac River and Alexandria skyline.
- Feast on fresh seafood favorites like oysters, crab cakes, and lobster.
- Choose from hearty meat dishes like Prime Rib or grilled steak entrées.
- Relax on the outdoor patio for an al fresco experience on warm days.
- Celebrate a special occasion in a polished, nautical-themed setting.
Chart House, 1 Cameron Street, Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: 703-684-5080
7. Start Your Day or Linger Over Brunch at the Cozy Del Ray Cafe
Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch, the Del Ray Cafe is your go-to eatery for organic, fresh local dishes prepared with French flair. The menu changes all the time in order to bring the best seasonal produce to your plate but you will always find a selection of cleverly-combined salads, a soup-of-the-day, a catch-of-the day fish dish and ever-popular favorites like escargot, salmon and naturally-raised steaks and burgers on the lunch menu. If you visit for dinner you will have a wider choice of entrees including Cassoulet, Bouillabaisse, Duck Confit and Stuffed Loin of Lamb. Gluten-free options are available on request.
Del Ray Café, 205 East Howell Ave, Alexandria, VA 22301, Phone: 703-717-9151
I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
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Are there romantic restaurants in Alexandria?
- Yes! Alexandria has no shortage of romantic dining options.
- The city offers a vibrant and eclectic restaurant scene, especially along King Street in historic Old Town Alexandria.
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What types of cuisine are available?
- Visitors will find a wide variety of cuisines to suit every taste.
- Restaurants range from classic American to international flavors.
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Do Alexandria restaurants use fresh ingredients?
- Yes! Almost all restaurants use fresh seasonal produce sourced from local farms.
- Many establishments also feature ingredients from artisan cheese-makers and local seafood producers.
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Where can I find the best romantic dining spots?
- A stroll along King Street will reveal numerous romantic restaurants.
- Old Town Alexandria offers historic charm paired with intimate dining experiences.
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