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Your guide to Arlington’s Clarendon neighborhood

Let’s enjoy an evening in one of Arlington’s most popular neighborhoods.

A sign that says "Hello Summer" at The Crossing in Clarendon.

The Clarendon neighborhood is made up of about 7,000 residents, with the median age being 34. | Photo via NOVAtoday

Hey, NOVA. Newsletter Editor Ava Wojnowski here, back with another afternoon (+ evening) adventure in Northern Virginia. This time, I took a stroll through the vibrant Clarendon neighborhood in Arlington — and trust me, there’s plenty to see, sip, and savor.

NOVA_Northside_Social_Aug15

Seating is easy to find at this popular café, with options on the patio, upstairs, and downstairs. | Photo via NOVAtoday

One of my favorite places to hang out is Northside Social Coffee + Wine. It’s truly one of those jack of all trades establishments where you can order a coffee, a sandwich, or a glass of wine. I’m often here writing the newsletter while grabbing a coffee and a breakfast sandwich.

Some highlights include:

  • Board game Mondays, which commence at 7:30 p.m., but it’s asked that you arrive at 7 p.m. You just need to make a minimum of a $10 purchase to play.
  • Live music on Fridays is from 6 to 9 p.m., along with happy hour deals.
Two drinks on a table.

I’m usually not a tequila fan, but this drink hit the spot. | Photo via NOVAtoday

I then grabbed a drink + a bite at Layli Mediterranean. I love the cocktails here, especially when I’m sitting on the lovely outdoor patio. My go-to is the orange dreamsicle made with Olmeca Altos tequila, mandarin juice, orange blossom water, agave, and coconut milk.

For food, I ordered the dip trio, made with hummus, labneh, and your choice of either muhammara or tirokafteri. I also indulged in falafel, one of my favorite foods, with tomato, pickled onion, and tahini sauce.

The outside of O'Sullivan's Irish Pub in Clarendon.

This Irish pub is a great spot to catch some live music in Arlington. | Photo via NOVAtoday

You can then cap your night off in one of three ways, in my opinion. Which one are you picking?

Chill + relax with friends: The Board Room is the perfect place to end your night. You can play a variety of games with your friends while sipping on drinks.

Indulge in a sweet treat: Nicecream is one of my favorite ice cream spots in Arlington. Make sure to check the flavor forecast beforehand because it always changes.

Get groovy to some live music: Head to O’Sullivan’s Irish Pub + Restaurant and sip on a perfectly poured pint of Guinness while soaking in the sounds of local talent. Live performances kick off every Friday and Saturday at 9:30 p.m.

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