Cuisine from every corner of the globe is stellar here, astonishing in both its scope and quality. To steal from Hemingway’s ode to Paris—a city represented in our best bakeries—NoVA is a moveable feast.
AL FRESCO DINING
Winner
What better way to soak up the outdoors than with a gyro in hand? With a view of Lake Anne, diners can sit beneath oversize umbrellas and enjoy drinks and plates of moussaka until 11 p.m., seven nights a week. // 1617 Washington Plaza N., Reston
Runner-Up
Heaters and an outdoor fireplace keep guests warm while they indulge in homemade pasta. Here, guests indulge in housemade pasta and cradle glasses of wine while relaxing on a couch under a starry sky. Should early-summer breezes blow a bit cool, heaters and an outdoor fireplace keep things warmed up. // 7145 Main St., Clifton
BAKERY/PATISSERIE
Winner
Oreo in a Blanket? It’s a favorite here, as is the PB Cup in a Blanket. And that’s just the beginning of the homespun whimsy in the case at this bakery. There are more than 40 flavors of macarons, including refined options like Earl Grey or pandan. Vegans aren’t overlooked; cupcakes and even ice-cream “cookiewiches” are made without animal products. // 1025 N. Fillmore St., Arlington; 100 E. Fairfax St., Falls Church
Editor’s Pick
Pastry chef Laurent Lhuillier prefers not to repeat himself. That means that every time customers return to this expansive bakery and cafe, they’re likely to see an entirely new roster of baked goods. They range from Korean-style sausage breads to highly refined mousse tarts. Whatever you choose, it’s bound to be a fresh favorite. // 13974 Metrotech Dr., Chantilly
BARBECUE
Winner
Rocklands Barbeque and Grilling Company
The combo is the thing at this small chain, which also has a location in DC. Why try just one meat when you can get a mixed rib platter with beef and spare ribs? The Belly Buster includes ribs, sausage, chicken, and brisket. Don’t sleep on the pork-stuffed egg rolls, served with Thai chile sauce. // 25 S. Quaker Ln., Alexandria; 3471 Washington Blvd., Arlington
(Photo at top by Birch Thomas)
Editor’s Pick
Basics are done right at this casual eatery. Smoky ribs and crunchy fried chicken give customers their protein fix for the day, but so will the bacon-enhanced braised kale. There’s no meat in the mac and cheese, but that won’t stop diners from returning for bite after cheesy bite. // 50 US-15, Aldie; 46230 Cranston St., Sterling
BREAKFAST
Winner
Monday through Friday, guests arrive early for doughnuts, buttermilk pancakes, and chicken and waffles. And hey, we’re all adults here. Why not order some breakfast bubbles to go with that omelet? // 1904 Reston Metro Plaza Dr., Reston; 1800 Tysons Blvd., Tysons
Runner-Up
This chain, headquartered across the border in Rockville, Maryland, amps up the classics. There are quinoa-coconut pancakes, and the classic eggs Benedict gets the luxe treatment with slices of sous-vide-cooked wagyu. // Multiple locations
BRUNCH
Winner
There’s no better way to celebrate a Sunday Funday than with proprietary spirits and farm-fresh fare. Have crab cake Benedict delivered to the table on Saturday, or hold out for the Sunday buffet, which features everything you’re craving, including a French toast table. // 1904 Reston Metro Plaza Dr., Reston; 1800 Tysons Blvd., Tysons
Editor’s Pick
Bottomless brunch doesn’t have to come from a buffet. At Ambar, diners pay a single price to eat until they’re ready for a nap. Flavors lean toward the Balkan, which translates to dishes like cevapi and egg, ajvar spread, and rich cheese pie. But don’t worry, sweet tooths: There’s a strawberry waffle, too. // 2901 Wilson Blvd., Arlington
BURGER
Winner
Keeping things in the Virginia community is important at this family-owned joint. Beef, bread, and even seasonal produce come from Virginia or DC. Basic burgers go beyond the ordinary with toppings like cherry-cola barbecue sauce and red Thai curry mayo. // 350 Maple Ave. West, Vienna
Runner-Up
We all love the thin, juicy patties at this chain that’s headquartered in Lorton. Options aren’t much more ambitious than a bacon cheeseburger, but it doesn’t matter when it tastes this satisfying. // Multiple locations
BUTCHER
Winner
Traditional English-style meat shops aren’t the norm in this neck of the woods, but this one promises that an experienced butcher is always behind the counter to provide individual attention. Try their homemade bangers with a creamy mash. // 6712 Old Dominion Dr., McLean
Runner-Up
Looking for charcuterie to make a fancy board of your own? Look no further than the cures here. From pâtés to bologna to prosciutto, they’ve got the salty meat you’re craving. // 8298 Glass Alley, Fairfax
CHEESE SHOP
Winner
Mango-ginger Stilton, anyone? The cheese here is well-curated but diverse, with options from around the world. It’s easy to order online, too, with curbside dairy treats waiting for hungry customers. // Multiple locations
Runner-Up
As of press time, this shop was open for curbside pickup only. But that didn’t stop devotees from voting for one of the most comprehensive cheese lists in the region. // 4508 Lee Hwy., Arlington
CHINESE
Winner
The Peking duck is what draws customers, but it’s possible to have a stellar meal amid the old-school chinoiserie of this long-established restaurant without a bite of that crispy skin. Veggies like spring onions, garlic sprouts, and napa cabbage are grown at Grass Roots Farm in Purcellville, which also belongs to the Peking Gourmet owners, the Tsui family. Taste the freshness with a garlic-sprout stir-fry. // 6029 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church
Editor’s Pick
To many of us, the words “Chinese food” conjure images of those iconic takeout containers. That’s because our area suffers from a paucity of upscale Chinese options. But this hidden jewel will wipe thoughts of General Tso from anyone’s mind with a tasting menu of lovingly crafted small plates. // 6259 Little River Turnpike, Alexandria
DATE NIGHT
Winner
Fans of this strip-mall restaurant know to turn up the romance with a tasting menu. The bill of fare changes daily. Choices might include anything from homemade pasta to kangaroo or wild boar, but crave-worthy cocktails and wines are always at the ready. // 442 Maple Ave. East., Vienna
Runner-Up
When a room is as pretty as the early-20th-century barn that serves as the setting here, the food doesn’t have to be good. Luckily, sushi, bacon crisped tableside, and seasonal drinks are all primed to inspire romance. // 9935 Discovery Blvd., Manassas
DELI/SANDWICH SHOP
Winner
An Italian sub always hits the spot. This is the place to find some of the best. There are six different varieties of bread stuffed with Italian salumi, but some loyalists swear by the chicken Parmigiana. // Multiple locations
Runner-Up
The expansive menu is the key to success at this friendly small business. Cold sammies include turkey with brie and fig jam, while the warm KBBQ features marinated rib eye with kimchi and gochujang mayo. // 132 Church St. NW, Vienna
DOUGHNUT SHOP
Winner
For those craving a very specific doughnut, there’s no better way to get it than freshly fried to order. This North Carolina chain allows customers to tailor their hot doughnuts to their tastes with their choice of toppings, coatings, and drizzles. A blueberry-bacon-marshmallow dessert? Go for it! // Multiple locations,
Editor’s Pick
Cronuts? Doughnuts that look like Cookie Monster? Texas-style, sausage-filled kolache? This small, local chain has practically anything made from dough that customers might crave, no matter how outrageous. And yes, that includes oversize classic doughnuts, because everything’s bigger in Texas. // Multiple locations
ETHIOPIAN
Winner
Eyo Restaurant & Sports Bar
Yes, there are TVs playing sports, but the art on the walls will likely distract most diners. The Ethiopian coffee ceremonies, in which raw beans become an intense drink, will keep sippers up late into the evening. // 3821 S. George Mason Dr., Bailey’s Crossroads
Runner-Up
Although this longtime favorite was still offering only takeout at press time, fans are still willing to travel for the varied combo plates. There are even dishes for vegans to enjoy. // 275 Sunset Park Dr., Herndon
FARMER’S MARKET
Winner
Every farmer’s market has fresh fruits and veggies aplenty, but not every farmer’s market has ready-to-eat attractions including both Turkish borek and freshly baked dog biscuits. There are local meats, cheeses, and breakfast sandwiches, too. // 300 Park Ave., Falls Church
Runner-Up
Each Saturday from April to December, food lovers converge on Lake Anne for a market with a view. Don’t miss locally made pasta, sausage, and gelato. // 11404 Washington Plaza West., Reston
FRIES
Winner
The potatoes in the fryer that day are posted on the wall. That’s just the beginning of the care that this Lorton-based chain takes with its spuds. Experts know to get their order double-fried. // Multiple locations
Runner-Up
The golden, hand-cut potatoes here are served in mini fryer baskets. They’re even better paired with a souvlaki wrap or Greek-style pork gyro. // 1216 W. Broad St., Falls Church; 110 Lawyers Rd. NW, Vienna
ICE CREAM/GELATO
Winner
Regulars keep abreast of the monthly flavor calendars to know exactly what they can expect of the small menu at this custard specialist. They’ve hit the jackpot on days when there’s s’mores-flavored custard served with mini marshmallows, housemade graham-cracker crumble, and Hershey bar pieces. // 4125 Merchant Plaza, Woodbridge
Runner-Up
This DC-based chain closed five of its stores last fall, but it’s still going strong in Fairfax. Look for original flavors like avocado-honey-orange. // 2905 District Ave., Fairfax, dolcezzagelato.com
INDIAN
Winner
We’re lucky to live in a region with lots of great butter chicken and saag paneer. But this modern ode to the varied cuisines of India stands out from the pack with dishes not available anywhere else. Desserts, like the Celebration Special, presented in a pool of dry ice, make any occasion feel special. // 44260 Ice Rink Plaza, Ste. 120, Ashburn
Runner-Up
Chef Ramanand Bhatt honed his skills for more than 60 years before passing away in April, and it shows in every bite on his menu that lives on here. Dishes range from Punjabi to Goan, but when there’s seasonal pumpkin curry on the menu, don’t miss it. // 1510-A Belle View Blvd., Alexandria
ITALIAN
Winner
Many of the classics, like fettuccine Alfredo, are available off the menu, but why order those when there are so many original choices? Try the involtini di vitello—veal stuffed with prosciutto, fontina cheese, and wild mushrooms, in a Marsala sauce. // 19825 Belmont Chase Dr., Ashburn; 118 Branch Rd. SE, Vienna
Runner-Up
Due to the pandemic, this modern Italian spot has been open as a takeout restaurant longer than it ever served in-house diners. But that doesn’t stop devotees from ordering the highly seasonal fare. We love it even more now that the dining room has reopened.// 124 N. Washington St., Falls Church
KEBAB
Winner
This regional chain was the first taste of Persian food for many NoVA lifers. More than 30 years later, the koobideh, chenjeh, and joojeh kebabs are as juicy as ever. // Multiple locations
Runner-Up
Whether diners are craving lamb, filet mignon, or salmon, there’s a kebab sure to satisfy. Just don’t forget to start the meal with tahdig, crispy rice that’s not on many menus. // 126 Maple Ave., Vienna
KOREAN BARBECUE
Winner
Locations now go all the way to Taiwan, but owner Micky Kim started right here in Annandale. Meats are affordable, but that doesn’t mean the quality suffers. Just taste the bulgogi and see. // 7220-C Columbia Pike, Annandale; 13818-B Braddock Rd., Centreville
Runner-Up
It’s always a party in this youthful dining room. Order a combo to experience as many meats as possible, along with the compelling corn cheese. // 9619 Fairfax Blvd., Fairfax
MODERN AMERICAN
Winner
We all know America is a melting pot. But few chefs celebrate it quite like Jon Krinn. Pop-ups featuring international chefs earlier this year brought everything from Swiss to Laotian fare to the table, but Krinn’s own cuisine uses global influences to its advantage every day. // 442 Maple Ave. East., Vienna
Runner-Up
The Restaurant at Patowmack Farm
New chef Vincent Badiee is a Virginia native, but his culinary journey has taken him from DC to Tuscany in Michelin-starred kitchens. He uses the farm’s ingredients to create progression menus that stun. // 42461 Lovettsville Rd., Lovettsville
RAMEN
Winner
There are 40 locations of this noodle purveyor nationwide. Luckily, two of those are in NoVA. They stand out with vegetarian options that are just as flavorful as the pork broth. Pro tip: The mini tacos are worthy of a meal on their own. // 2911 District Ave., Ste. 140, Fairfax; 11964 Market St., Reston
Runner-Up
The Sterling location didn’t survive the pandemic, so fans of the soup here are limited to just one spot now. No matter; slurp up curry ramen, as well as a version of Korean army soup after a bite of okonomiyaki. // 3250 Old Pickett Rd., Fairfax
SUSHI
Winner
How can fish help but taste fresh in a restaurant as bright and airy as this one? Gather a group and resolve to demolish the Sushi Tower, with its layers of sashimi, nigiri, and maki. Not ready for the commitment? Try the Bar Harbor roll, filled with lobster and spicy crab. // 11960 Democracy Dr., Reston
Runner-Up
Those serious about sushi will be thrilled to order the omakase for two. Diners can let the chef decide everything, or select a nigiri-only or sashimi-only version of the tasting. // 8708 Little River Turnpike, Fairfax; 12184 Glade Dr., Reston
TACOS
Winner
All across NoVA, tacoholics unite over chef Victor Albisu’s big flavors. Each location has its own menu, so there’s reason to try each one. We especially like the Indian-inflected Slumdog Millionaire. // Multiple locations
Runner-Up
This regional chain sticks to the classics. But when they’re done right, there’s nothing broken to fix. Get there early for breakfast tacos stuffed with eggs, fries, and cheese. // Multiple locations
TAPAS
Winner
There are more than 24 tapas, not including cured meats and cheeses, at this nationwide favorite. Jamon mangalica is the best of those hams, so pair it with some manchego, order some boquerones and bacon-wrapped dates, and sip some sangria for a meal worthy of the city that lends this restaurant its name. // 12023 Town Square St., Reston
Runner-Up
Mega-star chef José Andrés is behind the Crystal City location of this Spanish restaurant. Ordering the Tour de España makes it easy to construct a meal of laudable small plates, including classic Spanish potato tortilla. // 2250 Crystal Dr., Arlington
THAI
Winner
One of the best strip malls in NoVA is home to one of the best Thai restaurants. The pad thai is dandy, but for something different, there’s a large seafood menu that includes spicy dishes like crispy whole flounder and snapper with basil. // 410 Elden St., Herndon
Runner-Up
This bohemian pair of restaurants is as perfect for relaxing with an Insta-friendly aun-chun lemonade as it is for street food. Order the pink yen-ta-fo seafood noodle soup for an unusual treat. // 4004 University Dr., Fairfax; 2985 District Ave., Fairfax
VEGETARIAN
Winner
Chef Rupa Vira’s first restaurant features an exhaustive menu of all meatless dishes that span India. But The Signature’s signature is a Gujarati thali. Dishes from the Western state come and go from the combo each day, but there’s always a trio of apps and entrées, as well as two desserts. // 21760 Beaumeade Cir., Ste. 120-A, Ashburn
Runner-Up
The cuisine at this national chain is anti-inflammatory, thanks to the influence of founder Dr. Andrew Weil. That means a veggie-heavy menu that changes with each season. // Multiple locations,
VIETNAMESE
Winner
Inside Merrifield Town Center, this stalwart has been serving locals since 1993. Bun cha Hanoi, the dish that President Obama famously shared with Anthony Bourdain in Vietnam, is reason enough to come here. // 8190 Strawberry Ln., Ste. 1, Falls Church
Runner-Up
Pho 75
All over the region, Pho 75 is a name that guarantees a fair price and flavorful fare for pho seekers. Just don’t forget to bring cash. // Multiple locations
WINE SHOP
Winner
Since 1979, fine wine has had a special place in Arlington at this shop. The vino range includes great bottles at a stellar price to ultra-high-end sips for special occasions. Email sales make it easy to try a new favorite specially selected by the in-house experts.
// 4508 Lee Hwy., Arlington
Runner-Up
New Zealand–born sommelier Michael Pearce has collected more than 500 bottles at the wine bar and store he owns with his wife, Lisa. Indulge in that bottle at home or over crab cakes inside the restaurant. // 3950 University Dr., Fairfax
This story originally ran in our June issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to our monthly magazine.
