From pho to vermicelli to spring rolls to bubble tea, try one of these top-rated spots the next time you’re craving Vietnamese cuisine. | Photo by Ser Amantio di Nicolao via Wikimedia Commons
As the weather gets cooler, there’s nothing like a warm, aromatic bowl of pho. Here are 25 top-rated Vietnamese spots that pass the taste test based on customer reviews.
Pho Factory, 6237 Little River Tpke., Alexandria
When all you want is a good meal fast, Pho Factory has you covered. Reviewers praise this spot for its quick service, generous portions, and quality of ingredients. Pho 75, 1721 Wilson Blvd., Arlington
This no-frills spot has been serving the NOVA community for more than 30 years, and it’s consistently lauded by customers as having the best pho in the area. Pro tip: Leave your card at home when visiting — this spot is cash-only.
Pho Bar, 9385 Promenade Dr., Leesburg
While the menu here caters to all sorts of dietary preferences + restrictions, reviewers rave about the vegetarian options. Try the vegetarian pho, packed with squash, snap peas, cauliflower, broccoli, carrots, mushrooms, zucchini, and tofu for a healthy, hearty meal.
The Del Ray Farmhouse Market and Garden has opened a small grocery store. The store plans to support local vendors and farms, and they soft-opened on Wednesday, Oct. 8, selling vegetables, bread, and eggs. Let’s buy local. (ALXnow)
Biz
Reston Town Center will soon be home to the popular eyewear retailer Warby Parker. Located at 11936 Market St., the store is set to open on Saturday, Oct. 18. Tote bags will be given out to shoppers on opening day while supplies last. (FFXnow)
Arts
Mason District Arts Festival will celebrate its first year at the Eileen Garnett Civic Space on Saturday, Oct. 11, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. You can expect artist booths, live entertainment, a children’s play area, and food trucks. (FFXnow)
Wellness
Expecting or recently had a baby? VHC Health offers classes for new parents and grandparents — from breastfeeding basics to baby’s first year. Plus, check out its podcast “Living Well” and hear CNN’s Pamela Brown discuss postpartum anxiety and returning to work after childbirth with a VHC Health OB-GYN.
Try This
Want to enjoy a five-course meal at Nationals Park? In centerfield, to be exact. Experience a five-course fine dining event in centerfield at Nationals Park on Wednesday, Oct. 29. Back for its second year, this unique evening features top chefs. Tickets range from $450 to $550. Check out the chef lineup and grab your spot now. (Northern Virginia Magazine)
Mansion Monday Thursday
We couldn’t wait until Monday to share this stunning and historic property. Once home to Jacqueline and John F. Kennedy during the 1960 campaign, this Georgetown gem in Washington, DC is now on the market for $7.5 million. We’re in awe.
History
Three grant recipients will present their research on Alexandria’s history, covering the Civil War era, Douglas Cemetery records, and other significant historical periods. The presentation is a free event at the Lyceum on Wednesday, Oct. 22, at 6:30 p.m. (ALXnow)
Plan Ahead
Good news for car owners in Fairfax County. The county’s Board of Supervisors has extended the deadline to pay your car taxes to Wednesday, Nov. 5, amid the government shutdown. The goal is to reduce the financial burden on the estimated 80,000 federal workers in the county. (Northern Virginia Magazine)
Health
The City of Alexandria seeks volunteers to help shape its next five-year Health Improvement Plan, with a focus on mental wellness. Coalition groups will meet for five hours a month to address key topics. Final plans are set for release next summer. (ALXnow)
Ranked
Alexandria has been named the third-best small city in the United States in the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards. The historic charm of Old Town Alexandria is quite the draw for both tourists and residents. We’ll also mention that Washington, DC, was ranked sixth for the best big city.
The Virginia Lottery’s mission is clear: giving back to Virginia public schools. Since 1999, all Lottery profits — totaling over $17 billion — have gone to support local students and teachers in grades K-12. Follow the money.*
Jobs
“The process is super easy and far more cost-effective than using a recruiter.” That’s what one business owner said about hiring through our Job Board. See for yourself — post your open positions for free.
Looking for a cute, wholesome fall activity? Check out this Fall Tea Party event at Colvin Run Mill on Saturday, Oct. 11, from 1-2:30 p.m. You’ll be able to sip on tea, indulge sweet + savory treats, and play historical games.
This event is open to anyone aged 3 and up. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult. Admission is $15 per person — sign up here.
A pair of versatile men’s pants that offer a stylish, yet relaxed fit. Whether it’s for work, on the golf course, or a date night, these straight fit pants are crafted with premium, four-way stretch fabric for a refined look that doesn’t sacrifice comfort.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
Last night, I embraced the fall vibes by making grilled cheese and tomato soup. If you’re craving something warm and comforting too, you’re in luck — there are tons of great spots to grab soup around NOVA. Check out our latest restaurant roundup for the newest must-try places in town.
}})
}})
