When the weather warms in Northern Virginia, there’s nothing better than an outdoor dining experience. Often locally sourced, these restaurants are pairing fresh, garden-grown ingredients with stunning greenery views.
Barca
At Barca, experience tapas on their patio or pier, whether it’s a cucumber salad or patatas bravas. Their sangria is a nice drink if you want something fruity for a breezy summer season by the water. If you’re there for brunch, try the eggs Benedict, served with toasted molette bread, sliced serrano ham, and manchego hollandaise sauce. 2 Pioneer Mill Way, Alexandria
Patowmack Farm
The chef utilizes food grown on the farm and across the region to create a variety of flavors, temperatures, and sensations. The ever-changing chef’s menu guides diners through a full experience, from the bread to the dessert. The atmosphere is as enticing as the meal: a glass conservatory, gazebo, and open-air tent are all seating options for guests. 42461 Lovettsville Rd., Lovettsville
Ashby Inn
With a summer menu inspired by its own gardens, find delicious seasonal dining with the beet risotto or the seared foie gras with a sour cherry and apple puree, paired with gorgeous outdoor views. 692 Federal St., Paris
Taverna Cretekou
This top Greek spot is one of the most notable in the region, serving Alexandria since 1973, and the outdoor patio delights patrons during the spring, summer, and fall seasons. Find the authentic classics here, from traditional spanakotiropites (filo filled with spinach and feta) to a Smirni korfu dava — veal baked with tomatoes and eggplant, then topped with kasseri cheese before being finished with red wine and baked in a casserole. Don’t forget the baklava for dessert. 818 King St., Alexandria
L’Auberge Chez Francois
This family-run authentic French restaurant is perfect for any of life’s celebrations. While you can order from an a la carte menu, L’Auberge Chez François offers a prix-fixe dinner menu that’s worth the price, which ranges from $97 to $102. Choose from a selection of appetizers, main courses, and desserts. 332 Springvale Rd., Great Falls
Girasole
The Plains, located in the heart of Virginia’s horse country, is lush with sprawling acres of green-and-gold farmland and wineries — and at Girasole, you can overlook all of it as you dine. At this Italian cuisine spot, grab a filet of branzino with tomato, basil, and pine nuts, or the agnolotti, a spinach and ricotta filled pasta, served in a cream sauce. 4244 Loudoun Ave., The Plains
Secret Garden Cafe
Whether you want a monte cristo, a crabcake, or the cajun chicken pasta, this cafe located in the heart of Historic Old Town Occoquan can deliver it to you — along with plenty of fresh air, as the building is surrounded by a beautiful and secluded garden. 404 Mill St., Occoquan
Hunter’s Head Tavern
Thanks to a partnership with Ayrshire Farm in western Loudoun County, Hunter’s Head Tavern is serving up classic English fare with fresh ingredients at their gastropub. Two large patio sections — both surrounded by lively gardens with gorgeous flowers — are open to guests. Take in the pretty sights while you enjoy your bangers and mash or a bulgogi steak salad. 9048 John S. Mosby Hwy., Upperville
Feature image by Rey Lopez
This story originally ran in our July issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to our monthly magazine.
