We asked, and you answered. Here are your favorite places to eat around Northern Virginia, from classic American cuisine to comforting Chinese food. Check out more than 25 restaurants that NOVAtoday readers say are their go-to spots in the area.
SER | Arlington
Serving up cuisine from Spain, Liz M. selected this as their favorite restaurant in NOVA. And we can see why. Similar to tapas style, there are a ton of dishes perfect for sharing with your friends and family, like choricitos en sidra, or mini sausages cooked in Spanish cider, onions, mashed potatoes, and a red wine reduction.
Artie’s | Fairfax
Many of you flagged this spot when asked about your favorite restaurant in NOVA. Artie’s is part of the Great American Restaurants chain and serves up classic American favorites, such as bacon burgers and cups of lobster bisque.
Jackson’s Mighty Fine Food & Lucky Lounge | Reston
Another reader also picked one of the restaurants of the Great American Restaurants chain. This spot is said to be a nod towards the 1940s and offers American comfort food. I’m ordering the Jackson’s lobster roll, made with real Maine lobster.
Chopsticks | Herndon
Reader Teri L. said this was their favorite restaurant, serving both Chinese and Japanese food. With the colder weather, a hot bowl of wonton soup does sound like the perfect treat.
Coastal Flats | Fairfax
We’ve got yet another Great American Restaurant highlighted. Donna J. said that this is their favorite restaurant in NOVA. This spot offers dishes inspired by coastal states, starting in Maine and going all the way down to the Carolinas.
Joon | Vienna
Try delicious dishes like swordfish kabobs, lamb chops, or grilled prawns at this Persian restaurant. This spot also serves a $50 prix fixe menu on Tuesdays. Thank you, reader Helen, for your recommendation.
Mia’s Italian Kitchen | Alexandria
If you’re looking for Italian, this spot was recommended by reader Stephanie C. My go-to? Any of the personal-sized, brick oven pizzas. Specifically, the funghi + tartufo ‘za.
The Farmhouse Tuscan | Alexandria
This is another farm-to-table concept in Northern Virginia and is reader Karen R.’s favorite spot. Indulge in house-made pasta or hand-tossed pizzas, among other Italian classics.
Cowboy Cafe | Arlington
Coined as “North Arlington’s Finest Watering Hole,” this is reader Kevin C.’s favorite spot in town. Serving up classic bar food like fried pickles and BBQ pork sandwiches, there are a ton of tasty dishes for you to try while sippin’ on a beer. Don’t miss this spot’s weekly specials.
Panisa Thai | Burke
Reader Lisa B. selected this Thai spot as their favorite local restaurant. I’m opting for the Pad Rama with tofu. And for dessert, I will, of course, be getting the mango sticky rice.
Mike’s “American” Grill | Springfield
Many of you selected this as your favorite restaurant in NOVA. And yes, you guessed it, it’s another part of the Great American Restaurants. It’s known for dishes like hickory-grilled salmon and jumbo lump crab cakes, and you need to add this spot to your list.
Tuscarora Mill | Leesburg
This eatery breaks down your meal into a first course, salad course, and main course. I will be getting the honey goat cheese dip because how could I not? Thanks to Richard B. for the recommendation.
Chateau de Chantilly Cafe | Chantilly
Marshall P. recommends this cafe, serving up French-inspired drinks and baked goodies. My mouth is watering just looking at all of the delicious treats available.
Bistro L’hermitage | Woodbridge
Shoutout to Rose B. for highlighting this NOVA spot. Try dishes like filet mignon or puree de pommes de terre… aka Yukon gold mashed potatoes. You can also select the chef’s five-course or seven-course tasting menu, which can also be paired with wine for an extra cost.
Copperwood Tavern | Arlington
Reader Marissa B. chose this as their favorite restaurant, saying, “They use local ingredients, the food is tasty, and the interior was constructed using materials from the original owner’s barn. Super cool spot!”
Offering brunch, lunch, and dinner, there are a ton of different options for you to try. I saw baked brie as a starter and was immediately hooked.
Local Provisions | Sterling
I’ve been hearing so much about this spot, and it’s on my list of spots to try. It was even recently featured on Northern Virginia Magazine’s top 10 restaurants for 2025. I think I’m most drawn to the homemade pasta list, specifically the gemelli a la vodka. Note: this farm-to-table spot changes the menu based on the season.
Ozzie’s Good Eats | Fairfax
Shocking news: We’ve got yet another offering from Great American Restaurants. Marianna P. selected this as their fave spot. Some dishes noted to be fan favorites include wood-grilled hanger steak and lobster + shrimp fra diavolo.
1971 Coffee | Haymarket
Jennifer K. sent this spot in as her favorite in Northern Virginia. This cafe serves a variety of coffee, sandwiches, cocktails, and ice cream. So basically everything you could need.
Buena Vida Gastrolounge | Arlington
If you’re looking for Mexican food, I would recommend this casual joint — and so would reader Carol D. In the past, I’ve gotten the baja fish tacos, and they are just perfect. Buena Vida also offers a chef’s experience, which is a four-course meal for $60.
Sabores Tapas Bar | Arlington
Reader Susan T. selected this tapas restaurant as their favorite. Try various small plates like pintxo moruno, which are Moorish chicken skewers on a bed of hummus and pickled onions. The perfect spot to go with your friends and family.
Ellie Bird | Falls Church
From Michelin-starred duo Carey + Yuan Tang, this is Joshua K.’s favorite local restaurant. I feel like it’s only right to get the fried chicken, which is listed under the chef’s favorites. There’s also a prix fixe option for $65 per person.
Bollywood Bistro | Great Falls
Reader Tim D. chose this restaurant to be their go-to local spot. There are a ton of options to choose from, but I’m most drawn to the baingan bharta, which is smoked eggplant with ginger, onions, and tomatoes.
Clare and Don’s Beach Shack | Falls Church
If you’re looking for a restaurant to feel like you’re on an island getaway, stop by Leona C.’s favorite spot. Get everything from fish dishes to burgers at this local joint. The fish and chips are a classic.
Parrando’s | Ashburn + Haymarket
This spot serving up Tex-Mex needs to be added to your list of must-trys. From fajita combos to chimichangas, there are a ton of dishes to choose from. A non-negotiable starter has to be the chips and guac. Great pick, reader Connie U.
Junction Bistro, Bar & Bakery | Alexandria
With three locations, only one is in NOVA, and Mike J. said this is their favorite. And don’t let the word bakery fool you — while they offer a variety of baked treats, they also have an expansive menu.
Carlyle | Arlington
We’ve hit another Great American restaurant, thanks to reader Kathy K. While the food is delicious, I’m immediately attracted to the Art Deco vibe inspired by the 20s and 30s. Head to Ahirlington and give it a try.
Old Dominion Pizza Company | Arlington + Fairfax City
If you are in the mood for some ‘za, check out Cheska T.’s pick. With two locations, many of you in NOVA can access this pizza spot. I’m going for The Patriot pizza, inspired by GMU’s mascot, made with tomato sauce, pepperoni, hot honey, and fresh oregano.
Kelly’s Oyster House and Bar | Fairfax
Last, but not least, one of our readers said this is their favorite spot in NOVA. I’m intrigued by both the crab cakes and the maple soy-glazed salmon. If seafood isn’t your jam, they also offer some non-seafood options.
Did we not include your favorite? Comment below or email us to be featured in a future segment.
