Three ways to spend $20 in Arlington’s Clarendon neighborhood

How far can $20 go in Northern Virginia? Here’s our guide to spending in Clarendon.

The inside of the Board Room VA in Arlington.

Catan, anyone? | Photos by NOVAtoday

Wondering what you can get for $20 around Arlington’s Clarendon neighborhood? Here are three different ways you can make that money go a long way.

Note: These totals do not include tax or tip, so plan accordingly.

Two girls holding margarita glasses at Mexicali Blues.

$6 happy hour margaritas are hard to beat. | Photo by NOVAtoday

For a chill night

Start at Mexicali Blues during happy hour for a $6 margarita. I always opt to get a frozen one. Plus, you get free chips and salsa to enjoy while you sip on your drink.

You can choose to stay and get a taco, many of which are only $4. If you want to switch it up, go to Galaxy Hut and get small eggplant fries, tater tots, Brussels sprouts, or mac & cheese for $5.

Price check in: $14 (This cost is for a marg and two tacos)

With your final $6, grab a beer from the Board Room and get a board game to play with your friends.

The inside of Oasis The Listening Bar in Arlington.

There are plenty of bar seats available at this restaurant if that’s your jam. | Photo by NOVAtoday

For girls night

Start at Brass Rabbit pub for their happy hour, Monday through Friday, from 3 to 6 p.m. My choice? The $8 espresso martinis.

Afterward, grab a roll from Oasis Sushi the Listening Bar during happy hour, which is every day from 3 to 6 p.m. All maki rolls range from $6 to $11 — for our purposes, I’ll be opting for the spicy salmon crunchy roll for $8. You can decide if you want to splurge on the $11 roll.

Price check in: $16

What would I do with my remaining $4? A sweet treat, of course. Head to the Bakeshop, where you can get a variety of treats — like cupcakes, cookies, and macaroons — for under $4. I’d go for a salty caramel chocolate cupcake for $3.75.

The outside patio of Simona Cafe in Arlington.

Grab a seat on the patio at this cafe. | Photo via NOVAtoday

For a morning vibe

Kick off your day with a coffee at Simona Cafe. I’d order a latte for $5.25. If you want to grab a bite, I would recommend the Wilson sandwich, which is $9.

If you just want coffee here, but want to grab a bite elsewhere, head to Northside Social Coffee & Wine for a scrambled egg sandwich, which is $8.75.

Price check in: $14

With the remaining $6, head to Bayou Bakery and get yourself some beignets for $5. This leaves you with $1 — save accordingly.

Where should I spend my next $20? Let us know.

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