We’re in the last few weeks of summer, so it’s time to savor all the bites, dishes, and ingredients that remind us of sunny days and balmy nights. One of the best? Chips and guacamole. Plus, September 16 is National Guacamole Day, so we’ve rounded up five NoVA restaurants serving up some of the best guac around.
Banditos
Made with fresh avocados, chopped onions, cilantro and lime, the creamy guacamole at Banditos is just begging to be scooped up and devoured with a big pile of freshly fried tortilla chips. Try the Tres Amigos with tortilla chips smothered in cheese and crowned with scoops of guacamole, sour cream, and Pico de Gallo. 1301 South Joyce St., Arlington; 10621 Braddock Rd., Fairfax
Chuy’s
Served in a mini skillet, Chuy’s guacamole features avocados “mashed up” with their salsa fresca, a brightly acidic blend of freshly chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, chili peppers, fresh squeezed lime juice, and salt. The result is a chunky, bold guacamole that you can mop up with either chips or their warm house-made tortillas. Multiple locations.
HiFi Tex-Mex BBQ
With its winning combination of avocado, lime, jalapeno, and red onion, this guacamole is simple but luscious with a hint of tart and spice. Try the Hifi Trifecta with guacamole served in a small bowl alongside Pico de Gallo and queso adjacent to a mound of crunchy chips. 200 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria; 8298 Glass Alley, Fairfax

Mama Tigre
The guacamole at this Indian Mexican fusion restaurant is spicy, but in the vein of inclusivity, they also offer a mild version. 10443 White Granite Dr., Oakton
Senior Tequila’s
Senor Tequila’s guacamole is made tableside in a molecajete to your liking. Fresh avocados are mashed and blended with red onion, tomatoes, salt, garlic and lime. 9959 Main St., Fairfax; 43750 Central Station Dr., Ashburn
Feature image courtesy Mama Tigre