Twinkling holiday string lights. Ornaments carefully placed on a tree. Garland around the doorway. A fireplace crackling in the background.
There’s nothing quite like seasonal holiday décor to bring that sense of warmth and coziness into the atmosphere. Pair that with a delicious, filling meal and a fun, festive drink and you’re bound to be falling into the holiday spirit.
And if you’re looking for places to do just that, NoVA has got you covered. Here are some local spots to indulge in the ambiance of the holidays.
Lightfoot Restaurant
Lightfoot Restaurant in Leesburg really knows how to deck the halls with their festive décor and mouthwatering menu options. Serving classic American cuisine, Lightfoot Restaurant is sure to please your taste buds with options ranging from snacks, such as Honey Ham Biscuits or Oysters Rockefeller, to full entrees, like the organic buttermilk fried chicken or braised pork, shrimp, and grits. And if you’re still looking for gift ideas, Lightfoot is here to help. They offer holiday wine gift sets and gift certificates and will even wrap them up for you. What’s easier than that? 11 N. King St., Leesburg
Filomena Ristorante
No one does holidays quite like Filomena Ristorante. If your goal is to transport yourself to a winter wonderland where the Christmas magic is in the air and all around you, a trip to this Italian fine-dining spot may just be in order. People come from all over to grab traditional Italian cuisine and admire the ambiance during the holiday season at Filomena Ristorante in the heart of Georgetown. And for good reason. The holiday décor is extensive, including a large Christmas tree centerpiece featuring thousands of antique ornaments and lights. 1063 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Washington, DC
Clyde’s Willow Creek Farm
Looking for a good meal with a festive atmosphere that’s a little different? Why not experience Christmas on the farm? Clyde’s Willow Creek Farm is a unique destination restaurant and bar located on a working farm in Loudoun County that prides themselves on using locally raised, farm-grown vegetables and fruits as well as hormone-free, grass-fed beef. Can’t make it before Christmas? Ring in the new year with them on December 31 with the New Dominion Band. 42920 Broadlands Blvd., Broadlands
Sweetwater Tavern Centreville
Sweetwater Tavern in Centreville has both the decorative atmosphere and the menu items to help you help you feel the holly, jolly spirit this season. From crabcakes and filet mignon to jambalaya pasta, there’s something to everyone to enjoy. And why not wash it down with one their very own Happy Trails Christmas Ale or St. Nick’s Weizenbock? ‘Tis the season! 14250 Sweetwater Ln., Centreville
The Red Fox Inn & Tavern
Or maybe you’re looking for that more nostalgic, timeless holiday atmosphere. Think a crackling fireplace in an intimate dining room. Beautiful, sophisticated touches of holiday décor throughout the room. The Red Fox Inn & Tavern in Middleburg Village may just be the perfect place for you. The tavern offers a four-course dining menu with optional Virginia and Old-World wine pairings. And the setting alone is bound to have you reminiscing about holidays past while you prepare for another year. 2 E. Washington St., Middleburg
Barkhaus Dog Bar Park
Wish you could enjoy the holiday season with your furry friend by your side? There’s a place for that, too! Barkhaus Dog Bar Park is ready for the holidays with festive drink options on hand, such as a warm winter wine and hard hot cider, to pair with tasty menu items, including the Korean chicken wings, yam chips with guacamole, or steak tacos. Barkhaus is here to help you get into the holiday spirit with your pup this year. Santa will be there on December 13, and there’s an ugly sweater “pawty” on December 17. Oh, what fun! 529 E. Howell Ave., Alexandria
Feature image courtesy The Red Fox Inn & Tavern
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