‘Tis the season to catch up with friends and family you haven’t seen in a while. Whether you have family in town visiting, or just want to catch up with your neighbor, we’ve got you covered with ten places to meet for meals in Alexandria this holiday season. Forget about grocery shopping and celebrate in style at one of these extraordinary restaurants. Looking for restaurants that are open on major holidays? We’ve got you covered, too. Just check out our listings to see what’s open.
1. Carluccio’s
Image Credit: K. Summerer for Visit Alexandria
The irresistible menu at Carluccio’s features food from all 21 regions of Italy—all without the nine hour flight. The warm and welcoming atmosphere is perfect for any meal of the day and is great for groups. While you’re there, get some of your holiday shopping done at their market, featuring specialty Italian pastas, chocolates, olive oils and more that are perfect for hostess gifts and stocking stuffers.
2. Columbia Firehouse
Image Credit: D. Fine for Columbia Firehouse
Columbia Firehouse is one of the coziest restaurants in town, set in a historic firehouse with a mouthwatering menu including exceptional chicken and waffles for brunch. It’s the perfect spot for date night or dinner with friends during the holidays.
3. Union Street Public House
Image Credit: Union Street Public House
Union Street Public House goes all out during the holidays, with a special “Stories with Santa” series that’s perfect for families. Enjoy story time with Santa during select dates in November and December, including complimentary cookies, seasonal treats, soft drinks, coffee and tea. On Friday, November 25, there will be a special parade with Santa up to the City of Alexandria Tree Lighting Ceremony at City Hall.
4. Society Fair
Image Credit: K. Wyner for Society Fair
Society Fair is a “boutique emporium of epicurean delight”, and a one-of-a-kind gem on South Washington Street. Whether you’re looking to have a quick and casual brunch with friends or want an elegant, tailor-made dinner party, Society Fair has it all. Society Fair is the perfect place to and add some fun and color to your holiday season and pick up a bottle of wine and other goodies and treats.
5. Blackwall Hitch
Image Credit: K. Summerer for Visit Alexandria
Blackwall Hitch makes the waterfront the “cool” place to be during the holidays, with live music and drink specials that are perfect for groups of friends. During the 17th Annual Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights on December 3, Blackwall Hitch will have a tent on the patio with warm drink specials. Be sure to stop by the Torpedo Factory Art Center for unique and locally made gifts before or after dinner and the parade.
6. Sonoma Cellar
Image Credit: Sonoma Cellar Facebook Page
Sonoma Cellar is a wine-lover’s paradise and the ideal place to share a bottle with friends over small plates during the holidays. A taste of California wine country on King Street, Sonoma Cellar is also a great spot to do wine tastings or pick up a bottle as a gift.
7. Hen Quarter
Image Credit: M. Enriquez for Visit Alexandria
The holidays are all about comfort food, and new restaurant Hen Quarter has some of the best in town. The casual spot with Southern flair is great for families for brunch, lunch and dinner and hits the spot with dishes like the waffle frittata, shrimp & grits, chicken fried pork chops and more.
8. Brabo Tasting Room
Image Credit: Brabo Tasting Room
Brabo Tasting Room offers simply delicious small plates with Belgian flair and is a great choice for breakfast or dinner and drinks. Try Chef Wiedmaier’s famous mussels or flat breads, all perfect for sharing.
9. Del Ray Café
Image Credit: K. Summerer for Visit Alexandria
Del Ray Caféis like a home away from home, set in a house tucked into Alexandria’s Del Ray neighborhood. It’s a cozy setting for holiday meals with friends and family, with French bistro fare that’s perfectly suited for brunch including heavenly French toast. Del Ray Café is also a peanut-free restaurant, making it a safe and easy choice for families with food allergies.
10. Don Taco
Image Credit: Don Taco Facebook Page
If you’re looking for drinks and late night fare, Don Taco has creative tacos and tequila drinks to top off the perfect evening. Open seven days a week until 2 a.m. with Late Night Happy Hour specials Sunday through Thursday, this King Street restaurant is a must-try for a holiday get-together with friends.
Wherever you choose to meet for a meal this holiday season, be sure to tag pictures of your favorite moments using #ExtraordinaryALX
For more on dining in Alexandria during the holiday season, click here.
Header Image Credit: D. Fine for Columbia Firehouse
